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Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City Arrival (D)
Arrive at the Tan Son Nhat airport, you’ll be greeted by your guide and driven to the city centre for hotel check-in. You’ll have time to relax after your journey before a welcome dinner at a Vietnamese traditional restaurant. Your overnight will be in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City – Cu Chi Tunnels (B/L)
After breakfast at your hotel, you will drive to Hoc Mon District to visit the famous Cu Chi tunnels, a byzantine maze of underground passages, chambers, rooms and booby traps used by both the Vietminh and the Viet Cong to suddenly materialise as if from nowhere, launch a lightning ambush, and vanish equally rapidly. Return to the city for lunch. In the afternoon, visit the War Museum, Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Old Post Office and Ben Thanh Market. Your overnight will be in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 3: Ho Chi Minh City – My Tho – Ho Chi Minh City – Danang – Hoi An (B/L)
In the morning, depart from your hotel to travel to My Tho. On arrival, you’ll board a boat to cruise on the Mekong River and rowing through small canals and channels to Thoi Son Island where you’ll disembark and walk along a small village road to visit fruit gardens, the elementary school, the local distillery, and witness the daily life of Mekong villagers. You’ll have chance to sample some of area’s tropical fruits and watch a traditional music show. After lunch at a local restaurant on the island, you’ll climb back on the boat to visit a coconut candy workshop. Return to Ho Chi Minh City and then drive to the airport for your flight to Danang. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by your local guide and driven to Hoi An ancient town for hotel check-in. Overnight in Hoi An.

Day 4: Hoi An – My Son Sanctuary – Hoi An (B/L)
After breakfast, your guide will meet you at your hotel to take you to the World Heritage My Son Sanctuary, 40km southwest of Hoi An. Located in a lush valley, My Son was a capital and religious center of Cham people, now remaining with red brick towers and sanctuaries. Return to the town for lunch. In the afternoon, you will follow your guide to visit the ancient town including 400 years old Japanese Bridge, 300 years old Chinese temple, 200 years old Vietnamese former merchants’house before being dropped off at your hotel. You will spend the night in Hoi An.

Day 5: Hoi An – Hanoi (B)
You will be free in Hoi An until being transferred to the airport for a flight to Hanoi. Arriving at Noi Bai airport, you will be met and driven to your hotel. You will have time to relax before we present you with Vietnam daily life in the past and now with one or two hour cylo tour around the Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son temple and Old Quarter of Hanoi. You will then enjoy a Water Puppet Show before return to the hotel. You will spend the night in Hanoi.

Day 6: Hanoi – Ha Long Bay - Hanoi (B/L)
8:00am: Depart from your hotel Ha Long Bay, one of the most spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Areas and the world’s largest marine limestone ‘karst’ landscape. There you’ll board a traditional-style boat for four-hour cruise on the bay to visit some of the less well-known grottoes and caves. Weather permitting, you’ll be able to swim, and climb hills (not mountains!) for an overview of the Bay’s remarkable seascape. You’ll be served a seafood lunch on the boat. In the late afternoon, you’ll return to Hanoi. Tour ends at your hotel in Hanoi at 19:00. You will spend overnight in Hanoi.

Day 7: Hanoi City – Departure (B/L)
In the morning, your guide will take you to the Temple of Literature, the first university in Vietnam dating back to the 11th century, and a popular attraction, as is Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, his simple stilt house where he lived and worked, and the museum dedicated to his memory. After lunch, you will drive to the the airport for your departure flight.

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DAY 1: ARRIVE PHNOM PENH
Arrive to Phnom Penh and transfer to the hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

DAY 2: PHNOM PENH
Phnom Penh is nowadays a bustling city and its ochre-colored colonial buildings, bustling squares, trendy cafés, and frangipani-lined boulevards create an atmosphere that is unlike any other city in Southeast Asia. Set out on a city tour to visit the National Museum, which houses Khmer art and sculptures from different periods of Cambodian history, and visit the Royal Palace. (Open from 8.00am to 10:30am and from 2.00pm to 5.00pm. Women should cover their shoulders and both men and women should wear skirts or shirts covering their knees). The palace was built in 1866 by the French for King Norodom and is also home to the Silver Pagoda, which received its name because its floor is made up of 5,329 silver tiles. The palace has been inhabited by kings at all times with the exception of the period when the radical Khmer Rouge party took control in 1975. Under its leader Pol Pot, the Khmer Rouge seized power and declared ‘year zero’. Opt to learn more about these turbulent years when visiting the infamous Tuol Sleng Museum in the afternoon. Return to your hotel or to one of the riverside cafes or bars where you may want to take in the sunset.

DAY 3: PHNOM PENH - SIEM REAP
This morning, fly to Siem Reap, the gateway to the Temples of Angkor.
On arrival, enjoy lunch in town and then head out to start exploring the temples.
Visit to Angkor Wat, one of the modern wonders of the world. Be amazed by the sheer size of the temple and learn how the Khmer Empire prospered between the 9th and 13th centuries, around the time when Angkor Wat was built. Stroll through the intricately carved hallways that show hundreds of fine carvings and discover small shrines still in use today by the local people. If time permits, continue to visit other temples in the area. Transfer back to your hotel late afternoon.

DAY 4: SIEM REAP
Head to the ancient Royal city of Angkor Thom with its centre piece, the Bayon temple. At first glance, it may seem like a shapeless mass of stone, but further scrutiny reveals towers with enigmatic faces of former King Jayavarman VII looking into every direction. Continue your exploration with a visit to the Terrace of the Elephants, which served as a platform from where the King could welcome back his victorious army. Attached is the Terrace of the Leper King which holds detailed carvings winding along a narrow passage way that leads to the Baphuon complex. Head back to Siem Reap to rest and to enjoy lunch on your own before continuing to Ta Prohm. This beautiful temple is overgrown with fig trees, giving a haunting yet exotic atmosphere. The magnificent roots of the trees have merged over the centuries with the temple’s huge stone blocks, emphasizing a ‘forgotten city’ feeling. In the late afternoon, visit Artisans d’Angkor, an organization focusing on training unschooled rural youth in traditional handicraft skills. Ancient techniques are still practiced here such as wood and stone carving, lacquering, gilding and silk painting. Bid farewell to the artisans and return to your hotel.

DAY 5: SIEM REAP
Start the day with a transfer to Preah Kahn Temple. This massive temple is located on the Grand Circuit and is generally not as crowded as others in the Angkor complex so you should have this magnificent structure to appreciate in relative peace. Built in the 12th century by King Jayavarman VII, it is said that it once housed over 100,000 officials and servants. Continue to Neak Pean, an artificial island with a Buddhist temple on it. It is believed it functioned as a hospital during King Jayavarman VII’s reign. Head back to Siem Reap to rest and to enjoy lunch on your own until you transfer in the mid afternoon to Ta Prohm. This beautiful temple is one of Angkor’s jewels and is overgrown with fig trees, giving a haunting yet exotic atmosphere. The magnificent roots of the trees have merged over the centuries with the temple’s huge stone blocks, emphasizing a ‘forgotten city’ feeling. You will finish the day with a visit to Sras Srang, which is the former Royal bathing pool of the Khmer Kings and is now a body of water that measures 700 by 350 meters. Enjoy the sunset from the west terrace and return to Siem Reap for a free evening.

DAY 6: SIEM REAP – SAIGON
This morning, fly to Saigon – Vietnam’s largest city.
On arrival, enjoy lunch in town and then transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is free to explore the city on your own.

DAY 7: SAIGON CITY TOUR
Saigon is the country’s commercial centre and, with over nine million inhabitants and five million motorbikes, a city that never sleeps. Despite the well-documented hustle and bustle, Saigon retains its connections with the past. A walking tour to admire Saigon’s historic landmarks is a must. Transfer to Dong Khoi street., or Rue Catinat as it was known in the time of the French occupation, to discover some of the beautiful French colonial buildings built in the late 19th and early 20th century. Appreciate the splendidly restored exteriors of the Opera House and the former Hotel de Ville which are still two of the finest buildings in Saigon. Wander up to the Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris. (It is only possible to visit inside when no service is being performed) Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustav Eiffel, before he had risen to fame for the Eiffel Tower. The former Presidential Palace, the headquarters of the Saigon Government during the American war, is a short drive away and reveals the history of Saigon during its turbulent recent past. Head out of the city centre on a short 6km drive to District 5 to visit Thien Hau temple, built by the Cantonese congregation in the early 19th century to honour the Goddess of the Sea. The temple’s ornate interior courtyard is always full of life as worshippers from the local Chinese community come to offer their prayers. Take time to make a wish, write it on a small card and attach it to one of the incense coils in the local custom. Continue your visit to FITO(closed on Monday), the first museum of traditional medicine in Vietnam, offering an insight into how traditional medicine was used in the past. Return to your hotel.

DAY 8: MEKONG DELTA
Depart for a 1.5 hour drive from Saigon to Ben Tre, one of the country's southern provinces, situated in the Delta of the Mekong River. Take in the lush surroundings of rice paddies and fruit farms alongside the highway as you leave behind the busy city. Arrive at the waterfront pier and embark on an enjoyable motor boat excursion, take a glimpse at the Delta scenery, houses built on stilts and local fish farms along the way. Upon arrival at Turtle island, visit a local house and be introduced to the owner, sample freshly picked fruit and coconut milk while relaxing in the natural surroundings of fruit orchards. Chat with your host and stroll through the garden to get an insight into daily farming life. Take some time to enjoy a leisurely walk through the village observing tropical gardens along the way. You will have the chance to see a family run-business where they make coconut candy directly in front of the pier. Continue on your journey by sampan, be paddled by a personalised rower while you take the time to discover the maze of small canals. Bid farewell to your friendly boat rower, take a short stroll under through a shaded area of coconut gardens before reaching a rest-stop to enjoy a cup of honey tea and a traditional folk song performance. Lunch will be served at My Tho, taste some local delicacies before returning to Saigon mid afternoon.

DAY 9: SAIGON – HOI AN
This morning, transfer to the airport and fly to Danang. Then drive a short distance to the ancient town of Hoi An.
On arrival, check into the hotel. Then in the afternoon, head out for a walking tour to explore the town.
Between the 17th and 19th centuries, Hoi An was a prosperous trading port. Today, this World Heritage-listed ancient town boasts well-preserved buildings, pedestrianized streets and unique cuisine, allowing visitors a glimpse of its illustrious past. The narrow lanes are ideal for a guided walking tour. There is plenty to visit including the old merchant’s houses with influences from Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese architecture; the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge; the Assembly Hall of the Chaozhou Chinese Congregation with outstanding wood carvings; and the colourful market with stalls brimming with local specialties including silk, which can be turned into fashionable garments within a day or two.

DAY 10: HOI AN
Enjoy today at leisure to enjoy everything that Hoi An has to offer.

DAY 11: HUE
Today, drive about 3 hours north to the ancient capital Hue. Along the way, drive over the Hai Van mountain pass and enjoy the spectacular views.

DAY 12: HUE
Hue served as an imperial capital to the Nguyen Lords, a feudal dynasty which reigned from the 17th to the 19th century. With splendid emperors’ tombs, ancient pagodas and the remains of the Citadel, the city retains its royal charm. Start from your hotel with a 10 minute cyclo ride from your hotel to the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO listed site. Enter through the towering main gate and you will appreciate the magnificent architecture and gardens while your guide explains about the events and the intrigue of the former royal court. Despite being bombed heavily, there are some incredibly well preserved sections still intact and others which are being lovingly restored. From there, vehicle will take you to visit Thien Mu pagoda, Hue’s best-preserved religious monument. Standing on the riverbank with its seven-storey tower, the pagoda is a sight to behold. Afternoon, drive out 30 minutes to the elaborate Khai Dinh Royal Tomb. Its architecture and atmosphere showcase elements of eastern art and western designs. Continue to the serene Tu Duc Royal Tomb, designed to blend in with its natural surroundings and built on principles of feng-shui. Transfer back to your hotel with an optional stop en route at an incense stick making house.

DAY 13: HUE – HANOI
This afternoon, fly to Hanoi – Vietnam’s capital. With ochre-coloured colonial buildings, tree-lined boulevards and scenic lakes, Hanoi is full of charm. On arrival, transfer to the hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

DAY 14: HANOI
Start the tour at the historic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, an imposing monument lavishly built using marble and granite, and where the preserved body of “Uncle Ho” resides. (Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is closed every Monday & Friday, all afternoons and from early September until mid November). A short walk from the mausoleum is the lotus shaped One Pillar Pagoda – resting on a single stone pillar emerging from the water. Wind your way afterwards to the Temple of Literature, the first University for the sons of mandarins, for an overview about Hanoian culture and appreciation for ancient Vietnamese architecture. In the afternoon, visit the serene Museum of Ethnology is a 20 minute drive out of town that offers a fascinating insight into Vietnam’s 54 ethnic minority groups (Museum of Ethnology is closed on Mondays). Drive back to central Hanoi for a walking tour through the Old Quarter to enjoy the bustling local life, then cap off the day with a show at the water puppet theatre - a uniquely northern Vietnamese art form depicting scenes of rural life and episodes of national history.

DAY 15: HALONG BAY OVERNIGHT
Embark on a 3.5 hour drive to Halong Bay with a quick rest stop at Hong Ngoc Center – the best place to stop and stretch your legs en route. On arrival in Halong Bay, board your deluxe junk, settle into your cabin and prepare your appetite for an enjoyable lunch on deck. Mid-afternoon you will visit the mysterious atmosphere of Tien Ong cave, adorned with stalactites and stalagmites, then continue to the Cua Van fishing village, the largest community on the bay. This will allow a closer look into the lives of local fishermen before you transfer to a bamboo boat and are rowed slowly through the village with a museum and a school among floating houses. Back to the boat, a cooking class is offered with the chef if you are interested while your boat leisurely cruise be amazed or enjoy sunset cocktails and canapés on up top deck before served wonderful dinner on board tonight.

DAY 16: HANOI
Wake up early and partake in a Tai Chi class which is held on the upper deck. Visit Soi Sim Island, here you can relax in azure water of Halonng Bay or enjoy over 200 steps to the up top for panoramic view of the whole bay. Back to the boat for boarding towards the shore while brunch is served. Prepare your luggage and hand your key to the reception for check out. Arrive at the jetty late morning and transfer back to Hanoi with light snack provided en route. Opt to visit a traditional pottery workshop en route.

DAY 17: HANOI – LUANG PRABANG
This morning, fly to Luang Prabang. On arrival, head to town for lunch and then start a relaxing hike around the ancient town of Luang Prabang. Enjoy a leisurely walk to the magnificent stupa of Wat Visoun and continue to Wat Aham and Wat Mai. Wat Mai is Luang Prabang’s oldest Pagoda. Continue to Wat Xiengthong with its classic Laos’ style roofs, which are a magnificent sight to behold. End your day with a short climb to the top of Mount Phousi, located in the centre of town and admire the wonderful view from the top of the town across the Mekong and Khan rivers as well as the surrounding mountains.

DAY 18: KUANG SI WATERFALL
Depart for a one hour drive south to one of Luang Prabang’s most picturesque sights, the Kuang Si waterfall.
Stop en route at Phosy market where you can observe the locals trading in fresh produce. On arrival, take a leisurely hike through the national park towards the Kuang Si waterfall. For the more adventurous, continue to the top of the main waterfall where you may choose to swim in a large pool. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the tranquil surroundings of the park before you transfer back to your hotel by private vehicle. It is recommended to wear proper walking attire if trekking to the top of the waterfall. The evening is free.

DAY 19: PAK OU CAVES
After breakfast, embark on a two hour cruise in a long-tail boat on the Mekong River and visit the mysterious Pak Ou Caves. En route, typical Laotian villages are barely visible behind thick foliage. Wooden canoes bobbing by the shore attached to bamboo poles can be seen everywhere while floats mark the location of nets and fish traps. Arrive at Pak Ou and explore the sanctuaries which consist of two large caves. Both repositories house thousands of Buddha images, which range from mere centimetres to two meters in height. Continue to Ban Muang Keo village and observe local weavers and whisky distillers honouring their timeworn traditional crafts before returning to Luang Prabang by car. The evening is free.

DAY 20: DEPARTURE
Enjoy today at leisure until your transfer to the airport for you onward flight.

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DAY 1: ARRIVAL HANOI (FLIGHT INFORMATION TO BE ADVISED/OWE TICKET
Upon arrival, your guide will meet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel. Hanoi is full of charm with ochre-colored colonial buildings, tree-lined boulevards and scenic lakes Tonight enjoy a coZY welcome dinner at a local restaurant where street kids are offered hospitality training. A representative from a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) will attend the dinner to offer an overview about the country’s poverty and the organization’s current projects and humanitarian activities.

DAY 2: HANOI
Depart for a morning sightseeing tour of this charming capital city to visit the Temple of Literature, the first University for the sons of Mandarin. Walk the back-streets of Hanoi with your guide to see another part of city life, you may see street children, boys on the sidewalk polishing shoes or girls searching through garbage. They have no homes, no families and no education. Pay a visit to Birla Village where these poor, orphaned and disabled children are looked after and given an opportunity to make something out of their lives. With 400 children here, you will have the opportunity to interact with the teachers and children to understand their challenges and learn how they are overcoming them. Any form of donation such as books, clothes, toys, and rice is much appreciated.

DAY 3: HANOI
Meet a famed local chef of Hanoi from EZ cooking centre. Visit a local market with the chef and enjoy the bustling atmosphere and learn how to choose fresh ingredients that make up for a Vietnamese meal. Afterwards, enjoy a cooking class with a difference, where orphans await you at the park to participate in the class. Have fun with them and together sample your creations over lunch. After lunch, take some times for rest and enjoy a 45 minute drive to the rural outskirts of Hanoi. A small ferry will take you across the peaceful Cau River to Tho Ha village, a picturesque place that has remained unaffected by modern development. Most families in this village make a living by producing rice paper and raising pigs. Please don’t be alarmed with the hygiene here. This trip gives you an authentic portrait of a typical Vietnamese village. The guide will introduce you to a village elder whose house we will visit. Stop by at Tho Ha pagoda and temple, and find out more about the village through the eyes of a resident. Drive back to Hanoi.

DAY 4: HANOI - HALONG
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Halong Bay is one of Vietnam’s most spectacular natural wonders. The tiny limestone islands, with beaches and grottoes created by the wind and the waves, provide an excellent backdrop for relaxation and swimming. Early this morning, embark on a 3.5 hour drive to Halong Bay with a quick rest stop at Hong Ngoc Center – the best place to stop and stretch your legs en route. Upon arrival we board our boat for a cruise around the 3,000 islets that rise from the clear emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. Bizarre rock sculptures jutting dramatically from the sea and numerous grottoes have created an enchanted, timeless world. Enjoy a seafood lunch onboard our junk boat before returning to the wharf. Travel back to Hanoi arriving later this evening.

DAY 5: HANOI – HUE (FLIGHT)
In the morning, transfer to the airport for the flight to Hue. Hue became a UNESCO World Heritage in 1993. On arrival, transfer to the hotel to freshen up. Enjoy a sightseeing tour and visit the serene Tu Duc Royal Tomb, designed to blend in with its natural surroundings followed by Duc Son orphanage pagoda. The head nun set up the orphanage over 17 years ago to save abandoned and disabled children. Today there are more than 200 children at the orphanage. The children are raised until they reach high school or university level. You can offer to teach English at one of their small classrooms, but you can also observe a wood carving workshop where children are creating amazing handicrafts.

DAY 6: HUE
In the morning, drive to the rural outskirts for a small, random act of kindness and help make the world a better place. A gift of just one cow can offer a big change for poor farmers. Participate in a ceremony during which you donate a small cow to a farmer together with the local authority and villagers as your witness. Chat with the family who received the gift to better understand their needs and future plans.
Afternoon, visit former Imperial Citadel, surrounded by moats which was home to the royal court of Vietnam in the 19th century.

DAY 7: HUE – HOI AN VIA DANANG
After breakfast, drive over the Pass of the Ocean Clouds – where the summit offers a spectacular panoramic view of the central coastline. Afternoon is free for beach relaxation or your own exploration (weather permitting)

DAY 8: HOI AN
Between the 17th and 19th centuries, Hoi An was a prosperous trading port. Today, this World Heritage-listed ancient town boasts well-preserved buildings, pedestrianized streets and unique cuisine, allowing visitors a glimpse of its illustrious past. The narrow lanes are ideal for a guided walking tour. There is plenty to visit including the old merchant’s houses with influences from Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese architecture; the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge; the Assembly Hall of the Chaozhou Chinese Congregation with outstanding wood carvings; and the colourful market with stalls brimming with local specialties including silk, which can be turned into fashionable garments within a day or two. Lantern, the simple yet colorful item is now an essential part of Hoi An culture. The lantern is inspired and hand-made by local artisans and is meant to bring good fortune. It is really made a comeback by an experienced artisan – Mr. Huynh Van Ba who is now in his 80’s. Engage in a casual talk to him for a brief introduction to the history, shape, and color of the lanterns as well as the stages of production. Try creating your own lantern and take it home as a souvenir.

DAY 9: HOI AN TO DANANG FOR SAIGON FLIGHT
After breakfast, transfer to Danang for the flight to Saigon. Upon arrival in Saigon, a walking tour to admire Saigon’s historic landmarks is a must. Transfer to Dong Khoi street, or Rue Catinat as it was known in the time of the French occupation, to discover some of the beautiful French colonial buildings built in the late 19th and early 20th century. Appreciate the splendidly restored exteriors of the Opera House and the former Hotel de Ville which are still two of the finest buildings in Saigon. Wander up to the Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris. (It is only possible to visit inside when no service is being performed) Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustav Eiffel, before he had risen to fame for the Eiffel Tower. Finally, the former Presidential Palace, the headquarters of the Saigon Government during the American war, is a short drive away and reveals the history of Saigon during its turbulent recent past. Visit a local orphanage without much assistance from the Government. Any form of donation is appreciated.

DAY 10: MEKONG DELTA
Depart early in the morning from Saigon and head two hours to the southwest. Along the way notice lush rice paddies and fruit farms emerging alongside the highway, upon arrival in Cai Lay, board a charming wooden boat to enjoy countryside scenery and river life. Then stretch your legs a bit and hop on a bicycle for a short ride of about 7km (over easy, level terrain) along narrow village lanes, past fruit orchards and local cottage industries. Locals will often greet you with a hello or “xin chao” as you pedal by. Arrive at the home of a tropical fruit farmer and have a walk around his orchard. Enjoy the opportunity to taste fresh fruits. Then relax while enjoying the view from a small sampan boat as you are paddled slowly along tropical canals. Disembark and walk through this Mekong village to a local home and enjoy a home-hosted lunch of Mekong Delta specialties. After lunch, a short walk takes you back to the car and your return trip to Saigon.

DAY 11: DEPARTURE
Free at leisure until your transfer to the airport for your departing flight. End of services.

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DAY 1: ARRIVE HANOI
Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and remainder of the day is free to get over jetlag. Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner at the private home of a musician couple – the husband is a flutist in the National Orchestra while the wife is a piano teacher. Enjoy the meal hosted in the cozy dining room to understand the important role meals at home play in Vietnam. Chat and share with them life experiences through their lovely family photo album. After the meal, enjoy a melodious performance of flute and piano entertained by the hosts themselves.

DAY 2: HANOI
Hanoi’s surrounding countryside is filled with captivating natural beauty and images of tranquil village life. Take this chance to explore the forgotten village of Cuu, once the North’s premier tailoring village during the French colonial period. Many traces of its illustrious past are still visible today through the ancient architecture. Stroll around the village to appreciate the old charm. Stop at a local house to engage in a casual talk with the host over a cup of tea before driving back to Hanoi. In the afternoon, visit the must-see Temple of Literature, the first University for the sons of mandarins, for an overview about Hanoian culture and ancient Vietnamese architecture. Cap off the day with a cyclo ride through the Old Quarters to enjoy local daily life.
DAY 3: HANOI
Embark on a 3.5 hour drive to Halong Bay with a quick rest stop at Hong Ngoc Center – the best place to stop and stretch your legs en route. On arrival in Halong Bay, board your deluxe junk, settle into your cabin and prepare your appetite for an enjoyable lunch on deck. Mid-afternoon you will visit the mysterious atmosphere of Tien Ong cave, adorned with stalactites and stalagmites, then continue to the Cua Van fishing village, the largest community on the bay. This will allow a closer look into the lives of local fishermen before you transfer to a bamboo boat and are rowed slowly through the village with a museum and a school among floating houses. Back to the boat, a cooking class is offered with the chef if you are interested while your boat leisurely cruise be amazed or enjoy sunset cocktails and canapés on up top deck before served wonderful dinner on board tonight.

Overnight on junk (joined boat – private cabin, 2 persons per cabin) (Lunch, Dinner)
DAY 4: HANOI – HALONG BAY – DANANG - HOI AN (FLIGHT)
Wake up early and partake in a Tai Chi class which is held on the upper deck. Visit Soi Sim Island, here you can relax in azure water of Halonng Bay or enjoy over 200 steps to the up top for panoramic view of the whole bay. Back to the boat for boarding towards the shore while brunch is served. Prepare your luggage and hand your key to the reception for check out. Arrive at the jetty late morning and transfer back to Hanoi with light snack provided en route. Opt to visit a traditional pottery workshop en route. Transfer to Noi Bai Airport for the flight to Danang. Upon arrival in Danang, meet with your guide and transfer to Hoi An and check-in your resort.
DAY 5: HOI AN
Between the 17th and 19th centuries, Hoi An was a prosperous trading port. Today, this World Heritage-listed ancient town boasts well-preserved buildings, pedestrianized streets and unique cuisine, allowing visitors a glimpse of its illustrious past. The narrow lanes are ideal for a guided walking tour. There is plenty to visit including the old merchant’s houses with influences from Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese architecture; the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge; the Assembly Hall of the Chaozhou Chinese Congregation with outstanding wood carvings; and the colourful market with stalls brimming with local specialties including silk, which can be turned into fashionable garments within a day or two. Lantern, the simple yet colorful item is now an essential part of Hoi An culture. The lantern is inspired and hand-made by local artisans and is meant to bring good fortune. It is really made a comeback by an experienced artisan – Mr. Huynh Van Ba who is now in his 80’s. Engage in a casual talk to him for a brief introduction to the history, shape, and color of the lanterns as well as the stages of production. Try creating your own lantern and take it home as a souvenir.

Remainder of the afternoon is free at leisure to explore the ancient town or enjoy the modern facilities of your resort.
DAY 6: HOI AN
This morning, save your stomach for a private street food tour with other guests from different hotels. Meet with your culinary expert, Neville Dean, and visit a local market in Hoi An to enjoy the tantalizing sights, smells and flavors of local produce. Then walk through zigzagging alleys to savor real street food as the local people do. Along the way, engage in conversation with Neville to understand his passion for food and experience the local culture through the eyes of an expatriate. Gather at a local restaurant to examine and taste traditional central dishes and learn more about this fascinating region. Afternoon is free at leisure to explore the town on your own.
DAY 7: HOI AN – DANANG – SAIGON (FLIGHT)
Morning is free at leisure until transfer to the airport for onward flight. A quick orientation tour along the way to visit city landmarks including: Opera House, Notre Dame Cathedral and Old Post Office.

Later this afternoon, drive to the impressive studio of a celebrated artist in Saigon’s suburban District 2. Being inspired by the lights, shadows and colors of Vietnam, artist Helene Kling has lived in Vietnam since 1996. Wander around her studio to contemplate her stunning artworks and antiques. Watch her painting and grasp her inspiration on each piece of art. Enjoy an aperitif with her to share her passion of art. Helen also supports Operation Smile charity by painting to raise funds for children needing cleft surgery. It is the art of healing!
DAY 8: MEKONG DELTA (LEISURED BIKING OF 7KM)
Depart early in the morning from Saigon and head two hours to the southwest. Along the way notice lush rice paddies and fruit farms emerging alongside the highway, upon arrival in Cai Lay, board a charming wooden boat to enjoy countryside scenery and river life. Then stretch your legs a bit and hop on a bicycle for a short ride of about 7km (over easy, level terrain) along narrow village lanes, past fruit orchards and local cottage industries. Locals will often greet you with a hello or “xin chao” as you pedal by. Arrive at the home of a tropical fruit farmer and have a walk around his orchard. Enjoy the opportunity to taste fresh fruits. Then relax while enjoying the view from a small sampan boat as you are paddled slowly along tropical canals. Disembark and walk through this Mekong village to a local home and enjoy a home-hosted lunch of Mekong Delta specialties. After lunch, a short walk takes you back to the car and your return trip to Saigon.
DAY 9: SAIGON – CON DAO (FLIGHT)
Morning, be transferred to the airport for flight to Con Dao. Con Dao island is the least developing beach destination in Vietnam so it is ideal venue for those who are looking for something off the beaten track. Upon arrival, check in and explore the wild nature and turquoise sea around your resort.
DAY 10 -11: CON DAO
Full day is free for beach relaxation.
DAY 12: CON DAO – SAIGON (FLIGHT) CONNECT DEPARTURE FLIGHT
Free at leisure until transfer to the airport for onward flights home.

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Vietnamese food owes its unique identity to its history, culture, geography and the creativity of its chefs. Like the arts and language, the cuisine has developed in different ways dependent upon the region. No matter where you are in the country, the sights, sounds and aromas of fresh food markets and produce contributes to the excitement and color of the Vietnamese cooking and dining experience.

DAY 1: ARRIVE IN HANOI
Upon arrival in Hanoi, meet your guide and transfer to your hotel. In the late afternoon you will be taken on an hour long cyclo ride through the French quarter and the Administrative quarter to get a glimpse of the city. Welcome dinner is at Pots' n Pans restaurant at the Chef's corner with the lively open kitchen on display. You are given the chance to interact with the special guest – the Master Chef Mr. Donald Berger - who has over 30 years of working around the globe in the finest restaurants, private clubs and hotels and now settled in Vietnam with his own venture.

DAY 2: HANOI
This morning, meet with a local Hanoian chef for a market tour. He can show you how to select fresh ingredients. Enjoy the sights, sounds and aromas of the market. Visit the chef’s private home for a hands-on cooking class of Hanoi & Northern Highland cuisine. Enjoy your own creations at lunch while listening to the chef’s personal culinary adventure. Return to town for a customized city tour including a visit to the Temple of Literature, a cultural symbol and the first University for the sons of mandarins. Walk around the old quarter to enjoy local life and street food stalls. In the evening, visit the house of a musician couple – the husband is a flautist in the National Orchestra while the wife is a piano teacher – for a home-cooked dinner. Enjoy the meal hosted in the cosy dining room to understand the important role food at home plays in Vietnam. Chat and share with them your life experiences. After the meal, enjoy a musical performance by your hosts. Come back to your hotel for the night.

DAY 3: HANOI - HALONG BAY
Au Co ship offers not only luxury cruise experience but also sensational concept of 5-element cuisine including wood, fire, earth, metal and water. The menus onboard are built around fresh seafood and the creative use of aromatics and spices.

This morning, embark on a 3.5 hour drive to Halong Bay with a quick rest stop at Hong Ngoc Center – the best place to stop and stretch your legs en route. On arrival at Tuan Chau pier, board the deluxe Au Co ship. Each of her 32 spaciously-designed private cabins boasts luxurious bathrooms and panoramic balconies. Settle into your cabin and prepare your appetite for an enjoyable lunch on deck. The first day of your cruise is an introduction to the amazing scenery of Halong Bay and its southern sister; Lan Ha Bay. Cruising through Halong Bay will literally take your breath away, as we pass famous spots like Thien Cung and Me Cung caves, plus Soi Sim and Titov islands. Also located in the Gulf of Tonkin, to the south of Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay, Ba Trai Dao and the Ho Ba Ham islets offer tranquility and nature at its best, and a guided kayaking tour or refreshing swim in the Bay’s emerald waters are two of the best ways to enjoy them. Tonight, interact with the crew members to discover their daily lives or depending on the weather, try squid fishing at the reception.

DAY 4: CAT BA ISLAND – BAI TU LONG BAY
Wake up early and partake in a Tai Chi class which is held on the upper deck or just enjoy the breathtaking views of the bay as the boat starts cruising quietly in Lan Ha bay. Breakfast on board and cruise towards Cat Ba island, famous for its national park, with more than half the island designated. This island, far and away the largest in the Gulf of Tonkin, is covered by a dense rainforest home to numerous indigenous species of flora and fauna. The secluded village of Viet Hai, situated in the middle of this pristine environment, is easily accessible thanks to a 7km cycling trip on paved paths and is where we are developing an organic farm which you can visit.

Return to the ship and cruise east to Vung Vieng village in Bai Tu Long bay which is the most remote area of your voyage. The exceptional scale and variety of the geological rock formations in this area are sure to make this a future destination for cruising in the Gulf of Tonkin. After lunch on board, enjoy a relaxing rowing boat or kayak tour through the floating village of Vung Vieng. Optional swimming in Vons Ha area, depending on the weather. Then departure to Cong Do area while enjoying sunset cocktail on board followed with a special dinner featured 5 elements of wood, fire, earth, metal and water

DAY 5: HALONG - HANOI
In the morning, climb up to visit Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave where stalactites hanging from the high ceiling take on numerous shapes and forms. Back to the boat for boarding towards the shore while brunch is served. Prepare your luggage and hand your key to the reception for check out. Arrive at Tuan Chau pier late morning and transfer back to Hanoi with light snack provided en route. Opt to visit a traditional pottery workshop en route.

DAY 6: HOI AN
This morning, learn the traditional herbs that add in special flavour into Vietnamese cusine. Experience an organic discovery tour with the local farmers in the rural outskirts of Hoi An ancient town. Start your morning with a leisurely 4km bike ride through the countryside, heading to Tra Que vegetable village which is named after a sweet scented herb they grow and use to flavour Hoi An specialties like Cao Lau noodles. Upon arrival, learn about the history and custom of this charming village before getting your hands dirty and venturing into the garden - you may like to borrow the farmers’ clothing provided by the villagers. Join the friendly farmers to learn the traditional gardening methods and how they cultivate vegetables. Bid farewell to your host family and transfer back to town. Use your adventure mind to select one of numerous restaurant choices in walking distance for your independent lunch.

After lunch, meet your guide for a walking tour. Between the 17th and 19th centuries, Hoi An was a prosperous trading port. Today, this World Heritage-listed ancient town boasts well-preserved buildings, pedestrianized streets and unique cuisine, allowing visitors a glimpse of its illustrious past. The narrow lanes are ideal for a guided walking tour. There is plenty to visit including the old merchant’s houses with influences Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese architecture; the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge; the Assembly Hall of the Chaozhou Chinese Congregation with outstanding wood carvings; and the colourful market with stalls brimming with local specialties including silk, which can be turned into fashionable garments within a day or two.

Dinner tonight is at Mango Mango restaurant looking out Thu Bon River. You might have a chance to talk to the owner – Duc – who has an interesting culinary journey around the world. Try his eclectic and innovative flavors of fusion cuisine.

DAY 7: HOI AN
This morning, save your stomach for a street food tour with other guests from different hotels. Meet with your culinary expert, Neville Dean, and visit a local market in Hoi An to enjoy the tantalizing sights, smells and flavors of local produce. Then walk through zigzagging alleys to savor real street food as the local people do. Along the way, engage in conversation with Neville to understand his passion for food and experience the local culture through the eyes of an expatriate. Gather at a local restaurant to examine and taste traditional central dishes and learn more about this fascinating region. Remainder of the afternoon is free at leisure.

DAY 8: HOI AN - HUE
After breakfast, enjoy a scenic 3.5 hour drive through Ocean Cloudy Pass to Hue. During the reign of the Nguyen dynasty, Vietnam’s finest chefs where hand-picked and transferred to Hue to create new dishes for the emperors. Hue’s cuisine is famous for its refinement and artistic quality. A Hue dish normally requires a dozen different ingredients and an elaborate presentation. In a Hue family meal, each dish has its own complementary sauce while people in other parts of the country normally use one specific sauce for all types of food. Hue is also the centre of Buddhism in Vietnam, enjoy a cup of tea and interact with monks at an ancient pagoda to get a glimpse of Vietnamese Buddhism, monks’ life experiences and their charitable activities for the community. Followed by a pure vegetarian lunch from natural ingredients, learn what monks usually have for a meal (your guide will join you for lunch to help translate). Afternoon, get an overview of the former Royal city. Start with a visit to the Imperial Citadel which was the former home of the royal court of Vietnam up until the mid 20th century. Then head out of the city centre and explore the elaborate Khai Dinh royal tomb where the architecture is influenced by both eastern art and western influences.

Then enjoy an exceptional dinner with Salt Rice, one of the most opulent and symbolic dishes in the former Imperial capital of Hue, has made a comeback thanks to the Master Chef Mme Nhu Huy. There are up to nine kinds of salt such as from sesame, lemongrass, galingale; shrimp and the dishes are prepared by frying, steaming and braising. We can talk with Mme Nhu Huy, who was born and grew up in a Royal family, to understand her effort to search and preserve ancient recipes. And of course, chance to enjoy this delicacy at Mme Nhu Huy’s home. It is necessary to enjoy these dishes slowly to enhance the fragrance of rice and the salty, peppery, sweet, and sour taste of different types of salt rice.

DAY 9: HUE
Step out and explore the delicious world of Hue food tour with the celebrated gastronomy artisan, Ms. Nhu Huy. She is a professor, author of cookbooks, food television presenter in Vietnam and Europe and the recipient of several prestigious Talent awards in Vietnam. Start off with a visit to the local market to see the sights and sounds of daily life. Ms. Nhu Huy will share some advice of how to select the freshest produce and ingredients necessary for Hue food. Later, visit several villages which each specialize in a different popular dish. During the day, sample many wonderful foods including com hen (mussel rice), banh beo, banh nam banh loc (varieties of soft rice cakes) and banh uot (steamed rice pancake). These dishes are not merely considered local food, but an indispensable culinary trait of Hue. End the trip at the local restaurant Huyen Anh that serves Hue specialty of banh uot and grilled pork.

Remainder of the afternoon is to stretch your legs and relax. Dinner at the remarkable Ancient Hue restaurant. More than just a restaurant, Ancient Hue has 5 distinctive ancient houses offering a glimpse of the city’s splendid past. Walk through the local market with the chef to learn about local ingredients before returning to the open-air cultural complex. Here, you will sample the best Royal cuisine.

DAY 10: HUE TO SAIGON BY FLIGHT
Free at leisure before transferring to the airport in Hue for the noon flight to Saigon. Upon arrival, transfer downtown and experience a first glimpse of Saigon’s hectic traffic. Saigon is the country’s commercial centre and, with over nine million inhabitants and five million motorbikes, a city that never sleeps. Despite the well-documented hustle and bustle, Saigon retains its connections with the past. A walking tour to admire Saigon’s historic landmarks is a must. Transfer to Dong Khoi Street or Rue Catinat as it was known in the time of the French occupation, to discover some of the beautiful French colonial buildings built in the late 19th and early 20th century. Appreciate the splendidly restored exteriors of the Opera House and the former Hotel de Ville which are still two of the finest buildings in Saigon. Wander up to the Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris. (It is only possible to visit inside from 8.00am – 10.00am and 3.00pm – 4.00pm). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustav Eiffel, before he had risen to fame for the Eiffel Tower. Finally, the former Presidential Palace, the headquarters of the Saigon Government during the American war, is a short drive away and reveals the history of Saigon during its turbulent recent past.

With all its hustle & bustle, Saigon is a city on the move! Discover what this thriving and exciting metropolis can offer in terms of street food, all from the back of a vintage Vespa scooter. After a briefing at your hotel lobby about the logistic, be introduced to your driver and start the journey. Stops include dinner and drinks at Saigon's best authentic street food, and a Vietnamese-style coffee shop. Drive to District 4 to taste various snail dishes which are very popular in Saigon. Then it’s back to District 3 to sample a southern Vietnamese specialty – Banh Xeo (rice pancake with pork and prawns). Finally, head to a local Vietnamese style coffee shop and enjoy a local coffee

DAY 11: BINH DUONG
Located 30km to the north of Saigon and more than 1 hour drive; Binh Duong nowadays is home to significant manufacturing industries. With more than 300 years of history, Binh Duong is also the cradle of typical traditional handicrafts such as lacquerware and pottery. It is also where the celebrated culinary artisan – Nguyen Dzoan Cam Van chose to spend the rest of her life in the peaceful countryside. Drive over Ong Co Bridge to get to the private residence of this talented chef, who has made great contributions to glorifying Vietnamese culinary culture. So far Cam Van has published nearly 40 culinary books, and been invited to introduce Vietnamese cuisine to many countries around the world. Upon arrival, walk around her gardens by the river bank. Today you will learn more about typical Southern dishes. Learning to cook is great fun but enjoying the food that you cook is even better. Optional chance to stay back and interaction with Cam Van in her garden. Return to Saigon in the late afternoon.

DAY 12: CYCLING IN THE MEKONG DELTA
At 8.00am, depart for a 1.5 hour drive from Saigon to Ben Tre, situated in the Delta of the Mekong River. Pass Rach Mieu Bridge before reaching Phu Hung hamlet. Get on a tri-motor cycle (Xe loi) ride to enjoy the lush surroundings of rice paddies and fruit farms alongside the narrow village roads. Arrive at the waterfront; board the charming Mango Cruise for a glimpse at the Delta scenery while enjoying coconut juice. Make a first stop at a small brick workshop where the locals still use centuries-old traditional methods to make the bricks by hand.

Then you will head back to your boat to cross the An Hoa River, where you will start a very leisured biking trip (5-7km) around Phong Nam village on flat terrain. On the way, stop at the local house where they live on coconuts processing. Continue cycling through gardens and stop at the rice noodles factory “hu tieu”, one of most popular breakfast dishes in the region. Take a short walk to visit at Mrs. Huong’s home where they make a living from fishing, shrimping and farming. Enjoy the tropical fruits and honey tea in her garden before taking the rowing sampan; be paddled by a personalized rower trip to discover the maze of small canals.

The boat brings you to Mango home restaurant for a lunch with Mekong Delta specialties. Then ride 500m or walk over to Mr Sau Tuong’s house. He is a former soldier who survived after 4 years fighting the Khmer Rouge in Phnom Penh. Now he and his wife live on making rice paper. Have a chat with him and enjoy the crispy rice paper made by his wife, and see how it is made.

Choose to cycle 500m or walk 10 minute to another house of Mr Hung, who is a famous sticky rice maker in the village. You can also feed his stock of catfish and walk through his fruit garden. After the visit, the boat will be waiting for you at the pier nearby to bring you back to Ben Tre city where your car will take you back to Saigon.

Farewell dinner will be held at Ngon resetaurant which is set up like a local food market selling specialties from each region in Vietnam. Here you can experience each typical dish of each region while enjoying the busting atmosphere exactly like at a market.

DAY 13: DEPART SAIGON
Free time until you transfer to the airport for your departure flight.

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