Seoul and Vietnam: Cultures and Flavours

📍 Incheon International Airport – Seoul (approx. 58 km): +/- 1hr

Welcome to Korea! 

Upon arriving at Incheon International Airport, a dedicated VIP concierge (Premium Airbridge Service) will greet you at the gate or aircraft door with a personalized welcome sign, ensuring a warm and seamless transition from your flight to the airport terminal. After going through the immigration and the customs inspection, you'll be seamlessly escorted to a deluxe vehicle, where a private driver will ensure a smooth and comfortable transfer to your hotel in the heart of Seoul.
Note: All travelers are required to queue at the immigration counter to complete entry procedures into the country.
Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a harmonious blend of ancient tradition and cutting-edge innovation. As a sprawling metropolis, it boasts historic palaces, bustling markets, futuristic architecture and a vibrant arts scene, making it a cultural, technological and historical hub in East Asia.

Depending on your flight time, check in to your hotel and take your time to relax after a long flight.

(Note that the hotel standard check-in time is 15:00 o’clock. Should you arrive earlier, baggage may be stored at the hotel. An early check-in depends on availability and may be subject to additional charges).

In case you cannot find your guide, please call our Customer Care number +82 (0) 10 42274412 (Available from 7:00 AM to 22:00 PM KST)

Optional Activity: Evening Tour & Street Food Dinner by Public Transport
Meet the guide at 16:00 to start the tour.  This evening’s tour will use public transport.

The first stop is Changdeokgung Palace, a palace from the Joseon dynasty. In addition to being one of the best preserved palaces, this UNESCO-site is a masterpiece of Korean landscape design.

Next, explore Ikseondong, a charming neighbourhood blending traditional hanok houses with trendy boutiques, quaint cafés, and artisan shops. Stroll through its narrow alleys and soak in the vibrant mix of history and modern culture.

Continue to Gwangjang Market for a street food dinner. One of the country’s oldest and largest traditional markets, it features busy, colourful stalls selling an array of Korean dishes.  Try new and exciting Korean dishes such as Japchae (korean glass noodle salad), Tteokbokki (spicy rice cake), Kimbap (rice roll), Mandu (dumplings), Eomuk (fishcakes). Taste a variety of dishes from the various stalls, a delicious dinner feast of local cuisine before taking the subway back to the hotel for the evening. (D)
Time:   16:00-20:00
Notes: Changdeokgung Palace is closed on Mondays & Public holidays.

Overnight in Seoul

Inclusions:

Pick-up Time: 09h00 (flexible)
Tour Duration: up to 9 hours (09:00 – 18:00)
 
Meet the guide at the hotel lobby to experience Seoul's multifaceted charm on this full day tour. 
 
Begin with a visit to Gwanghwamun Plaza to admire the statues of King Sejong and Admiral Yi Sun-Sin. Continue through Gwanghwamun Gate to visit Gyeongbokgung (Gyeongbok) Palace, the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty. Originally built in 1395, it was expanded in 1867 to become the largest, and arguably most beautiful of Seoul’s five palaces, with 330 buildings in total. 

If time allows, witness the ceremonial changing of the guard which takes place at 10:00 at Gwanghwamun Gate. (NOTE: Gyeongbokgung Palace is closed on Tuesdays). 

After exploring the palace, you have the option to visit The National Folk Museum, located just next to the palace grounds. This museum offers fascinating exhibits about the history and culture of the Korean people.

Next, visit the Namsangol Hanok Village, a recreated village that features five restored hanoks from the Joseon Dynasty. The village offers a glimpse into traditional Korean life as well as an educational experience for visitors of all ages. (NOTE: Namsangol village is closed on Mondays & Public holidays)

Afterwards, enjoy some free time with the guide and get to choose the next destination: either its shopping district, other cultural sights, or some trendy coffee-shop, make the end of the day yours.

Then, either return to the hotel or explore the city independently (car, driver and guide at your disposal until 18:00).

Optional Activity: Royal Dining Experience in Seoul
Meet your driver and begin with a private transfer to the restaurant, an elegant venue reflecting the heritage of Korea’s royal culinary traditions.
Begin the evening with a multi-course dining experience inspired by Joseon court cuisine. Each course is presented with care, highlighting the artistry, balance, and refinement of royal dining. Guests gain insights into the history and cultural significance of the dishes through storytelling and guidance from the restaurant staff.
Each course showcases centuries-old culinary tradition, combining careful preparation with cultural storytelling. The evening blends fine dining and history, offering a refined and memorable experience in the heart of Seoul.
Conclude the night and return transfer to the hotel.

Time: 18:00-21:00 (3 hours)
Notes: 
-This tour is available only as part of a full multi-day tour package.
- Please note that a luxury vehicle will incur an additional charge.
- The restaurant is closed on Tuesdays.
- Suitable for ages 8 and up.
- Maximum: 50 participants.

Overnight in Seoul

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

Today is free to explore independently or book one of the below exclusive experiences.

Seoul’s Art Galleries and Museums Excursion
Duration: up to 6 hours and half
Inclusion: English speaking guide + Car & driver service + Standard Admission Fee
Be immersed in South Korea's vibrant art scene with this customised guided tour of Seoul's top galleries and museums.  Explore a mix of modern and traditional art, including Gallery Hyundai and the extensive collection at the National Museum of Korea as well as a selection of galleries tailored to meet personal interests.
Notes: 
- National Museum of Korea is closed on Mondays. 
- Gallery Hyundai is open 10h00-18h00, closed on Mondays. 
- Please note that a luxury vehicle will incur an additional charge.

Wellness Spa Journey
Duration: up to 4 hours
Inclusion: Car & driver service + Premium spa experience in central Myeongdong
Indulge in a half-day wellness escape in the heart of Seoul. Enjoy a 90-minute facial and body treatment that blends traditional massage techniques with advanced skincare rituals. Designed to detoxify, hydrate, and restore balance, this immersive experience leaves your skin radiant and your senses renewed. A perfect fusion of relaxation and modern beauty.
Notes: 
-Program start times can be adjusted within the operating hours. (Spa Operating Hours: Monday - Sunday, 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM)
- Please note that a luxury vehicle will incur an additional charge.

Seoul's Baseball Thrills
Duration: up to 7 hours
Inclusion: Standard baseball ticket + English Speaking guide +Car & driver service + Fried & Chicken

Experience a game-day adventure in Seoul, where passionate fans and exciting plays come together. Seoul's vibrant baseball culture is showcased at iconic stadiums like Jamsil Baseball Stadium, home to the LG Twins and Doosan Bears. Enjoy a high-energy game, complete with enthusiastic cheering, traditional Korean stadium snacks, and a dynamic sports ambiance.

(NOTE: Available during match dates - from March - October)

Overnight in Seoul

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

📍 Seoul - Incheon International Airport (approx. 58 km): +/- 1hr Da Nang airport – Central Hoi An (30 km): 50 mins

Note: Due to the unforeseen traffic in Seoul, you may be required to leave for Incheon Airport approx. 4.5 hours prior to the flight departure time.
 
After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a leisurely morning before transferring to the airport for your onward flight to Danang, Vietnam.

Be greeted upon arrival then transfer approx. 50 mins (30 km) from Da Nang Airport to Central Hoi An in the comfort of a private, air-conditioned vehicle with a private driver and a guide.  

Hoi An, one of Vietnam’s most picturesque towns and UNESCO-heritage listed, once a major Asian trading port in the 17th and 18th centuries now draws international visitors to its streets, for both the history and the surrounding scenes.    

Afternoon and evening at leisure. Ask us for recommendations on the town’s best restaurants. 
 
(Note that the Korean standard for the check-out time is 11:00 o’clock. Should you depart later, baggage may be stored at the hotel. A late check-out depends on availability and may be subject to additional charges).

Overnight in Hoi An

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

Be picked up at 8:30 from the hotel, begin with a cup of coffee at a riverside restaurant in Hoi An’s center. Once you’re briefed on the activities for the next few hours, stroll to a nearby ‘fresh market’ to learn about the local shopping culture. Next, enjoy a 10-minute scenic drive to the cooking class by electric buggy.

After arriving at the architecturally stunning venue for the activity, explore the surroundings before learning how generations of farmers have cultivated the land. The soil here is rich and fertile, thanks to the combination of silted river water and natural algae fertiliser. Using these traditional methods to grow their vegetables, without the use of chemicals or pesticides results in produce that is both healthy and delicious.
A short yet satisfying massage to ease your muscles will follow the learning experience, before starting the cooking class, where the Chef will introduce a variety of incredible ingredients for you to create. 

After you ‘cook and learn’, it’s finally time to sit back and devour your delicious creation. Once relaxed and satisfied, transfer back to your hotel to rest. 

Mid afternoon at 15:00, get ready for a food adventure into an area known by many, yet still relatively undiscovered by visitors, outside of the Old Town. A city of roughly 200 thousand inhabitants, the food scene in Hoi An deserves more credit than only cao lau, com ga and banh mi, which reflects the cultural values and history of this once-flourishing port town. Offering exclusive access and a ‘behind the scenes’ experience with the help of your foodie guide, explore the hidden corners and unique dishes of the heartwarming food and people of Hoi An town. 

By the trusted lead of your expert guide, gain an introduction of Hoi An specialities cooked by old family friends. Your guide grew up on these streets, eating at these same food stalls as a child. 

The exclusive access to the faces behind the stock pots will teach you how the Hoi An locals live and eat, and how in fact many people graze, due to the portion size, people can eat all day! 

Once you skirt the old town wander into the outskirts, weaving in and out the small alleyways where you'll chow down with the locals at stalls you'd never discover on your own. End the adventure with a tummy full of great food and a heart full of joy.

Note: limited vegetarian options, not suitable for vegans, maximum 6 persons per group based on availability.

Overnight in Hoi An

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch

Join one of Central Vietnam’s most renowned chefs, Duc Tran from Mango Mango fame, on an exclusive half day experience, at his incredible home. The man behind three well-loved restaurants, Mango Mango, Mango Rooms and Mai Fish, Duc fled Vietnam during the 1970’s at the tender age of fifteen. After refugee camp’s finding spice in Texas and world travels he came full circle back to Vietnam in 2003. Fast forward 20-years and Duc’s appeared on numerous international cooking and travel programs.  

Be picked up at 8:30 from the hotel and begin the tour with a short visit to a local market (led by a local tour guide, Duc will not join) for a brief intro into the area’s produce, from farm to sea. See locals shopping from the seat of their motorbikes. Here in Vietnam, life is about speed and convenience, both in cooking and in life.  

After, head to Duc's rural home/ cooking studio for a private demonstration followed by lunch, freshly prepared by the chef himself. Once satisfied, return to your hotel. Rest of the day at leisure. 

Note: Menu is seasonal.                          

Overnight in Hoi An

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch

📍 Central Hoi An - Danang Airport (30 km): 50 mins Noi Bai Airport - Hanoi (35 km): 60 mins

This morning, transfer approx. 50 mins (30 km) from Central Hoi An to Da Nang Airport in the comfort of a private, air-conditioned vehicle with a private driver and a guide and head to your next destination, the capital of Vietnam.

Hanoi, a city of contrasts, defies easy categorization. It's both modern and traditional, chaotic and serene, and always full of surprises. But one thing is for sure: it's a place that’s captivating, to all the senses. 

Tonight’s experience starts at 18:00. Once acquainted with the driver and motorbike, heading to a local café in the Old Quarter. A cocktail and local snack from nearby night vendors will be enjoyed, followed by a visit to one of Hanoi’s oldest churches.

The 2-wheeled adventure then continues through the eclectic, bustling narrow streets of the Old Quarter. The vespa whizzes through lively alleyways leading to a street restaurant known for its must-try dish in Hanoi: the renowned Bun Cha, featuring rice noodles, grilled pork, meatballs, fresh herbs, and spring rolls.

Departing from the Old Quarter, the tour passes the illuminated Hanoi Flag Tower and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, heading towards the West Lake and Truc Bach area. Here, the local specialty of Pho Cuon is samples, with the art of Vietnamese-style wrap 'n' roll demonstrated using fresh, aromatic ingredients and pho noodles.

The final ride leads to a live music venue, immersing in the rhythms of passionate music lovers with a drink. The evening concludes by returning to the hotel.

Time: 18:00 – 22:00

Notes:
The experience offered while vetted as visiting popular and well-frequented local establishments, either street stalls or local family run establishments, standards might not be comparable with international standards. While we check the standards of these local vendors, please be aware that consuming street food involves some risk.
The order of the visits may be slightly changed at the discretion of the guide. 
We suggest comfortable clothing (trousers, leggins, shorts or long skirts) in order to hop on and off the motorbike easily.
Vespa tours are not recommended for young children and only suitable for children 6-years+ (seating pillion alone with the driver). Helmets for kids are available.

Overnight in Hanoi

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🍗 Dinner

Today’s full day discovery of Hanoi starts at 08:30. Begin with a visit to the sixth-century Tran Quoc Buddhist Pagoda, on the shores of serene West Lake.

Next, take a short drive to visit the famed Temple of Literature. In 1076 Quoc Tu Giam - Vietnam's first university, also referred to as Van Mieu, was established within a temple to educate Vietnam's royalty, mandarins and members of the elite, for an incredible 800-years.  

Following, chose a museum option (to be discussed on the actual day of the tour):  

Option 1: Vietnam Women’s Museum.  Highly acclaimed, the museum displays highlights of Vietnam’s vast cultural diversity and the significant role women play in Vietnamese society.  

Option 2: The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (closed Mondays) is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about the rich cultural diversity of Vietnam. The museum houses a vast collection of interactive exhibits that showcase the 54 ethnic groups of Vietnam. 

Following the visit of the museum, arrive at a local house and be greeted by the friendly hosts. Over a cup of Vietnamese tea, chat with the family and hear about their lives both past and present. 

The family worked for the Vietnamese army during the Vietnam-America war and have fascinating stories to tell about that era. Hear about B-52 bombs dropped on their neighborhood during the war and how they persevered during the challenging years that followed. 

Then sit down for lunch. Enjoy a variety of home-cooked, local specialities while sitting at a modern style table. Unlike Hanoi’s tourist restaurants, the food served here explodes with flavor thanks to the traditional techniques used to prepare the dishes. 

Once sated, visit Hanoi’s iconic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex. The site is fascinating yet expect long walking distances (Note the Mausoleum is closed Monday and Fridays, each afternoon as well as annually from June 12th to Aug 14th).  

Continuing on foot past the Mausoleum (viewed from outside) to learn about the life and legacy of the nation’s founder. Continue to the ‘house on stilts’ where ‘Bac Ho’ resided from 1958 to 1969 (closed on Monday and Friday). Stroll around the tranquil grounds before completing the circuit at the One Pillar pagoda; built in 1049, the symbol of Hanoi is a unique representation of the city. 

Mid-late afternoon, continue the exploration with a stroll through Hanoi’s Old Quarter. A maze of alleyways and hidden treasures, learn about local life in the ‘36-guilds’ as you weave through the frenetic streets on foot. 

To conclude the day, step back in time to the 11th century and experience the ancient art of water puppetry at the famed Water Puppet Theater. 

Following the introduction to Hanoi’s highlights transfer back to your hotel.

Overnight in Hanoi

Notes: Specialty Vietnamese dishes will be cooked by the family, however vegetarian/non seafood requests must be communicated in advance, pre arrival to Vietnam.

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch

📍 Hanoi - Halong (160 km): 2.5hours

The perfect way to see the UNESCO World Heritage areas of Halong and Lan Ha Bay is to spend a night aboard a charming boat. The mystical scenery, where thousands of limestone islands jut out of the emerald sea, sculpted into wondrous shapes covered in lush flora is truly breathtaking.   

Following breakfast leave Hanoi at 08:00 for the 2.5hours drive to Halong City. Arrive at the Tuan Chau International Port then at 10:30 (approx) proceed with check-in formalities. 

Once onboard, relaxation before lunch is served as the cruise navigates through the magnificent Bai Tu Long Bay, offering views of captivating formations along the way. 

While sharing the same dramatic limestone karsts and emerald waters as Halong Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay is significantly less crowded. A large portion of the bay is protected as Bai Tu Long National Park, an ASEAN Heritage Park, and it's home to traditional floating fishing villages.

Mid-afternoon brings active exploration by kayak through calm waters and towering cliffs, guided by our crew. The boat then anchors in a peaceful bay for the night.

As evening descends, enjoy a multi-course à la carte dinner, followed by optional activities such as squid fishing, meditation, or board games. 

Overnight on Bai Tu Long Bay

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

Wake up early and start a new day with a Tai Chi session on the deck or some early morning meditation on a nearby islet. Have breakfast while leisurely immersing in the serene setting of the spectacular rock formations on the bay. 

The morning excursion begins at Thien Canh Son Cave. After a gentle 100-step climb, enjoy sweeping views and explore a prehistoric cavern of chandeliers. Continue to Vung Vieng, a floating village where locals share their time-honored life on fish and pearl farming.

Back on board, savor lunch while sailing west, then join an oyster-harvesting or traditional “phin” coffee-making workshop. 

As the day winds down, reach a secluded beach for barefoot relaxation: swim, sip sundowners with canapés, mingle, or simply enjoy the fading light.

Dinner is served onboard, followed by free time.  

Overnight on Bai Tu Long Bay

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

📍 Halong City - Hanoi Noi Bai Airport (190 km): approx. 3,5hrs

Wake up to the fresh morning amidst the bay and have breakfast (brunch on some boats) while leisurely immersing in the serene setting of the spectacular rock formations. 

Proceed to checkout as the cruise arrives towards port. Upon disembarkation, be met by the driver for the transfer back to Hanoi for your onward departure flight.

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast