Uncover the Unusual in Vietnam - 14 Days

Uncover the Unusual in Vietnam – 14 Days

Tour Detail

Highlights of the Trip

The “Unusual Vietnam in 14 Days” group tour offers travellers a unique and immersive experience through the diverse landscapes and rich culture of Vietnam. Beginning in Hanoi, participants are welcomed and quickly engaged in the local arts scene with visits to traditional villages like Bat Trang, where they can create their own ceramic pieces and enjoy a unique Calligraphy class. The adventure continues with a cruise through the stunning Bai Tu Long Bay, where guests enjoy activities such as kayaking and swimming amid breath-taking limestone karsts. The journey also takes travellers to the mountainous region of Sapa, where they hike through picturesque villages, interact with local communities, and learn traditional textile techniques, ensuring a deep connection with Vietnam’s ethnic diversity.

The tour further explores the historic cities of Hue and Hoi An, allowing guests to discover ancient architecture, engage in hands-on culinary experiences, and embrace local traditions through activities like lantern-making and cooking classes. Participants also experience the vibrant nightlife of Ho Chi Minh City, savouring the local cuisine and coffee culture while visiting iconic landmarks.

This thoughtfully designed itinerary not only highlights Vietnam’s striking natural beauty but also emphasises cultural immersion, ensuring a rich and unforgettable journey through the heart of the country.

This group tour operates once a month. Please see the selected departure dates.

Two age groups are offered for this tour:

  • 30 – 55 years.
  • 50 years plus.

*If you are outside of this age range please let us know. We are happy to accommodate different ages. 

We can also create a customised private tour if required.

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit

Hanoi

  • Bat Trang Village: This village is famous for its fine ceramics. Visit the Bat Trang Museum and market.

Bai Tu Long Bay

  • Thien Canh Son Cave: This enchanting cave is part of the larger Thien Canh Son tourist area, which is renowned for its limestone karsts and lush greenery.
  • Hon Co Island: This island boasts pristine beaches with soft white sands, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs.
  • Vung Vieng fishing village: This offers a unique glimpse into the traditional lifestyles of Vietnam’s coastal communities.
  • Yen Duc village: Enjoy a traditional water puppet show.

Sapa

  • Ta Van village: Ta Van is home to several ethnic minority groups, including the Giay, Hmong, and Dao communities.
  • Su Pan: Visitors to Su Pan can engage with the local community, experiencing their customs, traditional crafts, and agricultural practices firsthand.
  • Ban Ho village: Here you can engage with the locals.
  • Red Dao village: Enjoy a delicious lunch in a locals home.

Hue

  • Hue’s Ancient Citadel: Built in the early 19th century under the reign of Emperor Gia Long, the citadel served as the political, cultural, and religious centre of the Nguyen Dynasty.
  • Thuy Bieu Village: Bike around grapefruit gardens, visit handicraft families, and visit beautiful garden houses.

Hoi An

  • Guided Visit of the Ancient Town.
  • Tra Que Vegetable Farm: A picturesque agricultural area renowned for its organic farming practices and vibrant green fields.
  • Hoi An Market: This traditional market is a sensory delight, filled with the sights, sounds, and scents of local life.
  • Cua Dai Fishing Village: A picturesque destination that offers a glimpse into the traditional fishing practices and lifestyle of the local community.

Ho Chi Minh City

  • Explore the City on a Scooter.
  • Tan Dinh Church:  Completed in 1876, the church is renowned for its striking pink façade.
  • Tan Dinh market: Established in 1926, this market is known for its wide array of goods, including fresh produce, textiles, clothing, household items, and an assortment of street food.
  • People’s Committee building: The People’s Committee Building, also known as the Ho Chi Minh City Hall, is a stunning architectural landmark located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City.
  • Reunification Palace: Built in the 1960s, the palace served as the presidential office and residence of the President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War.
  • Notre Dame Cathedral (outside): Constructed between 1863 and 1880 during the French colonial period.
  • Old Central Post Office: Visitors can admire the vintage wooden phone booths and other historical elements that transport them back in time.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Ceramic Production: In Bat Trang Village, have a try at producing ceramics to create a unique souvenir.

Candle Making Workshop, followed by a Calligraphy Class: Enjoy a private workshop where you can create you own candle, before learning the basics of Calligraphy.

Tai Chi Session: Enjoy the fresh air of Bai Tu Long Bay with a morning session.

Water Puppet Show: The Water Puppet Show is a captivating traditional Vietnamese art form that dates back to the 11th century, originating in the rice paddies of northern Vietnam.

H’Mong Home: Witness the procedure of the traditional Black H’Mong textile.

Herb Bath: Enjoy a traditional herb bath in the style of Red Dao.

Royal Dinner: In Hue, enjoy a Royal themed dinner where you can wear traditional royal costumes.

Thuy Bieu Village: Here you can visit traditional garden houses and take part in a cooking class. You can also enjoy a herbal foot bath.

Lantern Making Class: In Hoi An learn how to make silk lanterns at a local house.

Private Cooking Class: In Hoi An, visit Tra Que Vegetable Farm and Hoi An Market before enjoying a professional cooking class.

Fisherman Experience: In Hoi An, join the local fishermen for an authentic experience.

Crispy Banana Cracker: In Ho Chi Minh City, learn how to make this delicious snack.

Coffee Experience: In Ho Chi Minh City, embrace a traditional coffee experience.

Local Cuisine and Traditional Dishes to try while in Vietnam

During your holiday to Vietnam, numerous opportunities will arise for you to savour the authentic local cuisine, whether from the menus of included meals or from your own culinary exploration during your free time in the itinerary. Indulge in traditional dishes that showcase the rich flavours of the region, including Banh Mi – a delicious fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisine. It’s a popular street food that offers a perfect blend of textures and flavours. You can also try Goi Cuon (Spring Rolls). These are also known as fresh spring rolls or rice paper rolls and are made with rice paper wrappers filled with shrimp, pork, fresh vegetables, and herbs. They are often served with a peanut or hoisin dipping sauce, making for a light and refreshing snack.

Water-based Activities and Cruises

Cruise along Bai Tu Long Bay. This includes swimming and kayaking around the scenic bay.

Rowboat to Vung Vieng fishing village.

Basket Boat Experience: In Hoi An, learn how to paddle a unique Vietnamese bamboo basket boat. You will also join a basket boat race for fun!

Accommodation of this Tour

  • Hanoi: Hanoi La Siesta Classic Hotel (**** an exclusive oasis in the Hanoi Old Quarter, just a short walk to the legendary Hoan Kiem Lake – Deluxe room).
  • Sapa: Pao’s Sapa Hotel (***** an elegant hotel set on a hill top overlooking Muong Hoa Valley – Deluxe Garden View room).
  • Ha Long Bay: Dragon Legend Cruise (Deluxe quality boat modelled on Imperial Court vessels).
  • Hue: Eldora hotel (****Located in the heart of the city within walking distance to many tourist attractions, exquisite style, spacious room – Deluxe City View room).
  • Hoi An: Lasenta Boutique Hotel (**** located in a quiet part of town overlooking the verdant rice fields, only 5-minute drive from Hoi An Ancient town – Deluxe Rice Field view room).
  • Ho Chi Minh City: EdenStar Saigon hotel (**** city centre location, nice rooftop swimming pool – Premium Deluxe room).

 

Departure Dates

15th March 2025, 8th April 2025, 3rd May 2025

Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival

Arrive at Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi. Relax and spend the night in Hanoi.

Day 2: Hanoi Handicraft

After breakfast, your guide will meet you at your hotel and escort you to Bat Trang Village, renowned for its exquisite ceramics. You’ll begin your journey through the bustling tourist area before moving into the serene, historic section of the village situated along the river. Here, you can wander through the narrow streets to witness traditional manufacturing techniques in action and meet the skilled ceramic artisans.

Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Bat Trang Museum and the local market, as well as engage in hands-on activities to create your own ceramic piece to take home as a souvenir.

In the afternoon, you will participate in a private Candle Making Workshop, featuring:

  • Two hours of instruction from an experienced chandler.
  • An overview of the candle-making process.
  • Materials provided, including a candle jar, soybean candle wax, cotton wick with wick glue, dispensing paper cups, wick holders (sticks), aromatic essential oils, watercolours, and decorations such as dried flowers, mini stones, charms, and toppings
  • The opportunity to design your own custom fragrance.
  • The chance to create a candle in traditional Vietnamese vessels like bamboo cups, ceramic jars, or coconut jars.
Focusing on the artistry of handmade crafts, you will learn to create beautiful, scented candles using natural wax and oils, employing a variety of creative techniques tailored to your preferences. Enjoy the freedom to experiment with colours and scents, allowing your personal touch to shine through in your creations. Everything you make during this workshop is yours to take home and enjoy.
After this, enjoy a Calligraphy Class.
  • Welcome and Introduction (15 minutes):
    • Registration and greeting.
    • Overview of the workshop and its objectives.
    • Introduction to the instructors and their backgrounds.
  • Mindfulness Session (15 minutes):
    • Introduction to mindfulness practices.
    • Discussion on the benefits of mindfulness and its connection to creativity and calligraphy.
  • Calligraphy Basics (45 minutes):
    • Overview of the history and art of calligraphy.
    • Demonstration of fundamental calligraphy strokes and techniques.
    • Hands-on practice with guided instruction.
  • Individual Feedback and Tips:
    • Personalised insights and suggestions from the instructor.
    • Techniques for incorporating mindfulness into your calligraphy practice.
    • Guided exercise that merges mindfulness with calligraphy.
  • Break (10 minutes):
    • Enjoy refreshments and light snacks.
    • Opportunity for informal mingling and Q&A with the instructors.
  • Gifts (30 minutes):
    • The instructor will present various calligraphy pieces as gifts to participants.
    • Explanation of the meaning and inspiration behind each piece.
    • Discussion on how mindfulness influenced the creation of these artworks.
  • Reflection and Closing (15 minutes):
    • Group reflection on the overall experience.
    • Discussion on how to continue practicing mindfulness and calligraphy at home.
    • Distribution of workshop materials and resources.

✓ Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3: Bai Tu Long Bay

After breakfast, you will depart for Bai Tu Long Bay, which is just as beautiful as its renowned neighbour, Halong Bay—and many travellers have found it to be even more breath-taking. You will board a traditional wooden junk to explore the Bai Tu Long Bay region, where you can admire the captivating limestone karsts along the way.

After lunch, your cruise will take you to Thien Canh Son Cave in the Cong Do area. You’ll then have the opportunity to relax on the white sandy beach of Hon Co Island, where you can swim or kayak. As the Dragon Legend Cruise makes its way to Tra San, you can unwind in the Mineral Seawater Pool, Fitness Room, or take advantage of the Spa and Massage Services (please note that spa and massage services are not included) before dinner.

This route is designed to steer clear of crowded areas, allowing for a tranquil overnight stay in the peaceful Tra San region.

During your two-day excursion in Ha Long Bay, you will embark on the Dragon Legend boat, one of the latest additions to the Indochina Junk fleet. Each of the two Dragon Legend vessels features 24 spacious, wood-panelled cabins, designed with luxury in mind to ensure the comfort and enjoyment of our guests. The boats offer four decks that include both indoor and outdoor dining options, a spa, a bar, a sun deck, and various entertainment facilities. Each cabin, measuring 26.5 sq. m, is beautifully furnished with elements inspired by traditional Vietnamese culture and showcases authentic, handmade art from different regions of Vietnam. The well-equipped bathrooms, spanning 9 sq. m, feature bathtubs for relaxing seawater or fresh water treatments, allowing guests to unwind while enjoying stunning views of the Bay through large windows. Two of the cabins are equipped with connecting rooms to accommodate families. All meals, typically focused on fresh seafood, will be served on board. Kayaking is also included in your package.

Bai Tu Long Bay, situated a little further east of Halong Bay, is the most secluded area of your journey. The impressive scale and diversity of the geological rock formations here promise to make it a popular destination for future cruises in the Gulf of Tonkin.

Please note: The cruise itinerary may change without prior notice due to weather conditions or regulations set by port authorities. While Wi-Fi is available, please be aware that internet connectivity may be limited due to the bay’s geography. Thank you for your understanding.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4: Yen Duc Village 

You’ll awaken to the fresh air of the bay and enjoy a Tai Chi session on the spacious sundeck (beginners are welcome!). After breakfast, the cruise continues to Vung Vieng fishing village, where you will take a traditional rowboat to meet the locals and pass by the floating school and fish farms. Following this visit, you will check out of your cabin as you cruise toward the harbour while enjoying a buffet lunch.

You will arrive back at the dock around noon, where you will be picked up for your return to Hanoi. On the way, a stop will be made at Yen Duc village in Dong Trieu province to experience a water puppet show performed by local artists. After this delightful performance, you will continue your journey to Hanoi, arriving at your hotel in the late afternoon. Your overnight accommodation will be in Hanoi.

✓ Breakfast and Brunch

Day 5: Sapa – Traditional Handicraft

At around 6:30 AM, you will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to Sapa via the new highway that runs through Yen Bai and Lao Cai provinces. This scenic highway takes you through the Red River Delta to Lao Cai City, where the river enters Vietnam at the border with China.

After one or two breaks along the way, you will arrive in Sapa, a charming town nestled on the mountainside opposite Mt. Fansipan, the highest peak in Vietnam. Sapa is surrounded by breath-taking mountain landscapes, featuring towering peaks, river valleys, hillside rice terraces, and numerous small ethnic minority communities. Many of these traditional villages are situated on the lower slopes of the valleys, where you’ll often see villagers dressed in authentic traditional costumes.

After enjoying lunch in Sapa town and checking into your hotel for a brief rest, you will visit Ta Van village. Your guide will take you to a H’mong home, where you can observe the entire process of traditional Black H’Mong textile production, including dyeing and weaving.

✓ Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6: Hiking to Ban Ho village

After breakfast, you will drive to Su Pan, where your walk will begin with a descent down a slope offering breath-taking views. Along the way, you will pass through Ban Ho village, allowing you to take in the stunning scenery of the valley and the rice paddy terraces. This is a great opportunity to observe the daily lives of the local people.

The route will continue through the rice fields to the Red Dao village of Nam Toong, where your guide will prepare lunch in a local home. After enjoying your meal, you will experience a traditional Red Dao herb bath before your guide takes you to Lao Cai for your overnight train journey to Hanoi. You will spend the night on board.

✓ Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7: Hanoi to Hue

Upon arriving at Hanoi Train Station at 5:30 AM, you will be picked up and transferred to Noi Bai Airport for your morning flight to Hue.

Once you arrive at Hue Airport, your guide will greet you and take you to your hotel. After some time to rest, you will visit the ancient citadel of Hue, which was once the seat of the Emperor of the powerful Nguyen Dynasty that ruled Vietnam from approximately 1800 to 1945. You’ll start your exploration with a stroll around the area between the citadel’s massive walls and the defensive moat, now beautifully filled with lotus flowers. Afterward, you will enter through the Noon Gate and wander around the Thai Hoa Palace, the Pavilion housing the Nine Urns of the Nguyen rulers, and the remnants of the Royal Palaces.

In the evening, you will enjoy dinner at the Ancient House restaurant, a charming venue that showcases traditional Hue architecture. This will be a themed Royal dinner, starting with a welcome drink of Ming Mang wine, an emperor’s beverage. You will then learn about the significance of Royal costumes and have the opportunity to wear them for photographs before savouring a beautifully presented meal that was once served to the Royal family.

✓ Lunch and Royal Dinner

Day 8: Bike in Thuy Bieu Village

After breakfast, you will drive to the rural village of Thuy Bieu, an ancient village located on the southern bank of the Perfume River. Just 7 km from the centre of Hue, Thuy Bieu is a hidden gem known for its untouched nature and rich culture, particularly its sweet Thanh Tra grapefruit.

Upon arrival, you will take a bike ride around the village, passing through vast grapefruit orchards that are a specialty of the region. You will have the opportunity to visit local families engaged in traditional handicrafts, such as incense making and silk painting, allowing you to witness the daily lives of the villagers as they work joyfully and with enthusiasm. If you wish, you can even try your hand at these crafts.

Afterward, you will return to the garden house to learn how to cook two local dishes from Hue under the guidance of your host. You’ll then enjoy the fruits of your labour alongside other dishes prepared by your host. Following lunch, you can relax with a soothing herbal foot bath before returning to your hotel. The rest of the day will be free for you to explore at your leisure.

✓ Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9: Hoi An Lantern Making Class

In the morning, your driver will take you to Danang. Along the way, you will cross the scenic Hai Van mountain pass, where you can enjoy stunning views from the top, including Lang Co beach and village, as well as the lagoon far below, with Danang sprawled out to the south.

Upon arriving in Hoi An, you will embark on a guided tour of the Ancient Town, followed by a unique opportunity to learn how to make silk lanterns at a local home. You’ll witness the intricate process of creating Hoi An-style lanterns and receive instruction on crafting your own lantern. After the class, you will have free time to explore and spend the night in Hoi An.

Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage site and was once an ancient trading port, the largest in Indochina. It served as a meeting point for various cultures, which is reflected in the diverse architectural features of its wooden buildings. The town has retained its original street layout, as well as the quay that historically welcomed ships from across East Asia and beyond, many of which lingered for months while waiting for favourable trade winds to return home.

There are numerous excellent restaurants offering a variety of cuisines at different price levels. Hoi An is also a great place for shopping for silk, with many options for having clothes tailor-made within a day or two at reasonable prices.

✓ Breakfast and Lunch

Day 10: Fisherman Tour

After breakfast, your driver will arrive at your hotel to take you to Otta Cuisine. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by your guide and embark on a bike ride to Tra Que Vegetable Farm, where you can enjoy the scenic beauty of rice paddies and gardens while observing the lives of local farmers.

After your ride, you’ll return to Otta Cuisine for a short rest before picking up your conical hat and bag to explore the Hoi An market. At the market, you’ll have the chance to meet local vendors and purchase fresh ingredients for your cooking class.

Once you have gathered your ingredients, you will head back to the restaurant to begin your cooking lesson, guided by our professional chefs. They will walk you through each step of the cooking process, and once you’re finished, you can enjoy the meal you’ve prepared.

After lunch, you will be transferred to Phuoc Hai – Cua Dai Fishing Village, where you will board a boat for a cruise along the Cua Dai River. There, you will watch a basket boat demonstration and learn how to paddle the unique Vietnamese bamboo basket boat. You’ll also have the chance to participate in a fun basket boat race while exploring the palm coconut canals, which bear witness to the hardships endured by soldiers during the Vietnam War.

Next, you’ll join local fishermen for an authentic Vietnamese fishing experience, casting nets into the water and learning the techniques they use to ensure a good catch. You’ll also enjoy traditional folk music, including singing and rowing with local fishermen. Finally, you will savour a fresh seafood dinner on board before being transferred back to your hotel for the night in Hoi An.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 11: Free Time in Hoi An

Enjoy a free day in Hoi An.

✓ Breakfast

Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City

After breakfast, you will have some free time until your private car and driver arrive to take you to Hue Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon landing at Tan Son Nhat Airport, you will be greeted by our guide and transferred to your hotel in the city centre.

In the evening, at 6:00 PM, you’ll embark on an exciting exploration of Saigon from the back of a scooter while enjoying the local cuisine. Accompanied by a local Vietnamese rider, your adventure will lead you through the narrow streets and alleys of Saigon, covering various districts and hidden corners. You’ll ride to Chinatown, visit a local evening market, and then head to the Ho Thi Ky wholesale flower market.

At the market, you will have the opportunity to stroll around and learn how to make crispy banana crackers. Afterward, hop back on the scooter for a delightful 30-minute ride through alleyways, passing cloth shops on fashion streets, food vendors, and a park where locals exercise at night.

After this thrilling ride, you will stop at a local eatery to savour Pho (Beef Noodle Soup) and Banh Mi (the most famous street food in Vietnam). Following your meal, you’ll visit the Nguyen Thien Thuat area, known for its vibrant street food scene, which showcases a rich diversity of cuisine and local culture. This area attracts residents from various parts of Vietnam, contributing to its fascinating and diverse culinary offerings.

Finally, you’ll be taken to a local favourite drinking spot to enjoy some beer and soft drinks. Sit at a small table and chair, engage in a great conversation with your tour guide, and learn more about the ingredients of Vietnamese cuisine and local life.

You will return to your hotel around 10:00 PM.

✓ Breakfast and Dinner

Day 13: Rhythm of Saigon

This morning, our guide will meet you and take you to a charming coffee shop nestled in a small alley, featuring delightful retro decor. After a warm welcome, the host—a young and inspiring barista—will introduce you to the culture of Vietnamese coffee. You will have the opportunity to sample a variety of coffees, allowing you to learn firsthand while receiving insightful explanations.

During this time, you can engage in conversation to uncover the insights and untold stories of the people of Saigon. For the Saigonese, coffee, or “cà phê,” is more than just a beverage; it’s an integral part of their culture. In Saigon, you can find many types of coffee enjoyed by everyone, from the working class to businesspeople, making it a beloved staple for all.

After spending a couple of hours at the coffee shop, we will head out to visit Tan Dinh Church, also known as the Pink Church, to admire its striking colour. This church is one of the oldest and most significant Roman Catholic institutions in the city.

Next, we will walk to Tan Dinh Market to immerse ourselves in Vietnamese culture and mingle with the locals. Tan Dinh Market, built by the French colonial government in 1926, is one of the oldest markets in the city and serves as a historic landmark and a popular shopping destination for residents.

After exploring the market, it’s time to sample some local dishes in Saigon to satisfy your appetite. You can choose from a variety of options, such as “broken rice,” a flavourful “bowl of noodle soup,” or perhaps the famous “Banh Mi,” a popular local delicacy.

In the afternoon, we will visit several iconic sites, including the People’s Committee Building, the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral (exterior), and the Old Central Post Office, before returning to your hotel for a rest.

✓ Breakfast and Street Food

Day 14: Departure

Your day is free until your private car and driver arrive to take you to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your international departure flight. Thank you for joining us—your tour concludes here!

✓ Breakfast

Price

From £2796pp

Price per person based on small group size of 4 people

  • The price is subject to availability, based on twin room sharing.
  • This group tour offers various departure dates.
  • Peak season surcharges may apply during local public holidays.

Tour Summary

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival
Arrive in Hanoi and transfer to your hotel for check-in. Relax and enjoy the evening at your leisure before spending the night in Hanoi.

Day 2: Hanoi Handicraft
Explore Bat Trang Village, renowned for its ceramics, where you can watch traditional manufacturing and create your own ceramic souvenir. Later, participate in a private candle-making workshop and a mindful calligraphy class, learning the artistic techniques behind both crafts.

Day 3: Bai Tu Long Bay
Embark on a scenic cruise through Bai Tu Long Bay, famous for its serene limestone karsts. Explore Thien Canh Son Cave, relax on Hon Co Island’s beach, and unwind in the mineral seawater pool onboard, staying overnight in the tranquil region.

Day 4: Yen Duc Village
After a Tai Chi session on the sundeck, visit Vung Vieng fishing village and enjoy a boat ride. Experience a local water puppet show at Yen Duc village on the way back to Hanoi, arriving in the late afternoon.

Day 5: Sapa – Traditional Handicraft
Travel to Sapa and discover the picturesque mountain landscapes. Visit Ta Van village, where you’ll learn about traditional Black H’Mong textile production, including weaving and dyeing techniques.

Day 6: Hiking to Ban Ho village
Enjoy a scenic hike from Su Pan to Ban Ho village, passing lush rice terraces. Visit the Red Dao village of Nam Toong for lunch and a traditional herb bath before catching your overnight train back to Hanoi.

Day 7: Hanoi to Hue
Arrive in Hanoi and fly to Hue. Explore the ancient citadel, once home to the Nguyen emperors, and enjoy a Royal dinner with traditional costumes at a local restaurant.

Day 8: Bike in Thuy Bieu Village
Take a bike ride through Thuy Bieu village, visiting grapefruit orchards and local handicraft artisans. Participate in a cooking class and enjoy a relaxing herbal foot bath before returning to Hanoi.

Day 9: Hoi An Lantern Making Class
Travel to Hoi An and enjoy a guided tour of its ancient town. Learn the art of lantern-making and create your own silk lantern, then explore the charming streets of Hoi An.

Day 10: Fisherman Tour
Explore Tra Que Vegetable Farm by bike, then take part in a Vietnamese cooking class. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat ride in Phuoc Hai Fishing Village, participating in a basket boat demonstration and fishing experience, followed by a seafood dinner.

Day 11: Free Time in Hoi An
Enjoy a free day to relax or explore Hoi An at your leisure.

Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City
Fly to Ho Chi Minh City and spend the evening exploring the vibrant streets from a scooter, sampling local delicacies and visiting hidden markets. End the night at a local bar.

Day 13: Rhythm of Saigon
Visit a retro coffee shop to learn about Vietnam’s coffee culture, then explore Tan Dinh Church and Tan Dinh Market. Sample local street food and visit iconic sites like the Reunification Palace and Notre Dame Cathedral.

Day 14: Departure
Enjoy a free day until your driver takes you to the airport for your departure flight, concluding your unforgettable tour.

Tour FAQs

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
The best time to visit Vietnam for this tour is from October to April, as the weather is generally mild and pleasant. Avoid the rainy season (May to September) if possible.

What should I pack for this tour?
Pack light, comfortable clothing for walking, as well as a swimsuit for beach activities. Don’t forget sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and a camera. For the cultural workshops, comfortable clothes are recommended, and if you plan to participate in the Tai Chi session, wear loose, comfortable clothing.

What is the level of physical activity on this tour?
This tour involves moderate physical activity, including walking, cycling, and light hiking (for example, hiking in Sapa and visiting rural villages). It is suitable for those in good health with a reasonable fitness level.

What happens if there’s bad weather during the tour?
In case of bad weather, especially during the Bai Tu Long Bay cruise, the itinerary may be adjusted. The tour operator will inform you of any changes and offer alternative arrangements as needed.

Is there any free time during the tour?
Yes, there are free days and free periods during the tour, such as the free day in Hoi An (Day 11) and some leisure time in the evenings, where you can explore independently or relax.

Can dietary restrictions or preferences be accommodated?
Yes, please inform us of any dietary restrictions or preferences (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.) ahead of time, and we will make arrangements accordingly.

Is Wi-Fi available during the tour?
Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and on the cruise boats. However, connectivity may be limited in rural areas or on the boats due to their location.

Are the activities suitable for beginners?
Yes, many activities, such as the candle-making, calligraphy, and Tai Chi, are designed for beginners, and instructors will guide you throughout the process.

Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, it is highly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers cycling accidents, medical emergencies, and trip cancellations. Please ensure that your insurance policy is valid for the countries you will be visiting.

What is the currency in Vietnam?The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese đồng (VND). Banknotes come in high denominations, with common notes ranging from 10,000 VND to 500,000 VND. Coins are rarely used in Vietnam, so expect to primarily use banknotes. When exchanging or withdrawing money, it’s good to have smaller denominations for convenience, as some local vendors may have limited change for large bills.

Do I need a visa for Vietnam (travelling from the UK)?

For this specific tour, you will not require a visa. You can visit Vietnam without a visa up to 45 days for tourism or business. If you would like to stay for longer than 45 days, you will need to arrange a visa. Please be sure to check your country’s relevant website or contact us directly for up to date information.

What are the Passport Requirements for entering Vietnam (travelling from the UK)?

To enter Vietnam, you must ensure your passport has the following:

  • An expiry date of at least 6 months after the date you arrive in Vietnam.
  • At least 2 blank pages.
  • No damage to your passport.

When entering Vietnam, ensure that your passport is stamped and that the correct visa expiry date is written in your passport. Please be sure to check your country’s relevant website or contact us directly for up to date information.

Tour Map

Include

Accommodation

Entrance Fees

Free Time

Guided Sightseeing

Iconic Landmarks and Attractions

Local Experiences

Meals as included in itinerary

Tour Guide

Transportation

Exclude

International Flights

Meals not mentioned in itinerary

Personal Expenses

Tips and Gratuities

Travel Insurance

Visa

Visa Fees

BOOK ONLINE

 

Note

Our Group Tours operate with a maximum group size of 16 people, you can enjoy plenty of time to interact with your tour guide, learning about the culture and heritage of each destination you visit. To reserve your places, start by choosing your desired departure date and complete your booking by following the instructions. Upon receipt of your booking, our team will check availability and confirm your booking. If you change your mind, you can cancel your booking within 48 hours of our confirmation with no penalty. Our free cancellation/cooling period ensures that you can cancel your tour with ease.

If you like this tour but prefer to book as a private tour for your family or friends, just fill out our simple form below and our Holiday Team will do the rest. We'll work with you to design a tailor-made itinerary to suit your individual needs and preferences. We offer a free tour designing service to help you plan the perfect tour – you can make as many changes if you require. There's no obligation to commit. Choose your own departure date and explore the world in the comfort of your own group.
Contact us to confirm the tour.

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