Absolute Vietnam

📍 Noi Bai International Airport - Central Hanoi (35 km): 50 mins

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.

Be greeted upon arrival then transfer approx. 50 mins (35 km) from Noi Bai Airport to central Hanoi in the comfort of a private, air-conditioned vehicle with a private driver and a guide.

Notes: 
- If you’re unable to find the guide in the arrivals area, call the 24-hrs customer care number +84 917332246
- The standard check-in time at hotels is 14:00.
- The itinerary can be flexible based on the arrival flight schedule; some sites can be visited today to have more time at sites or adding some other sites in the next day (with small surcharge)

Overnight in Hanoi. 

Inclusions:

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, rest over a well deserved lunch. 

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 Theatre. 

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

Overnight in Hanoi. 

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch

Today’s tour will begin at 08:00. Leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind to experience cycling in the Hanoi countryside. After a safety briefing and bike fitting, start pedaling through the small back alleys of Bac Bien Village. Arrive at the banks of the Duong River and board a local ferry for a short crossing, enjoying the scenes as the boat glides across the water. 

Back on the bikes, pedal parallel to the river then turn into quaint villages. This presents the perfect opportunity to discover traditional local houses, ancient pagodas and temples, lively markets and gardens. Stop often for photos or simply to enjoy the atmosphere of authentic Vietnamese country life. Pay a visit to a local family for sipping tea and gain insights into their daily life. 

Following this insightful bike ride through Hanoi’s outskirts, pedal back into town and return to the hotel for a chance to freshen up.

In the afternoon, return to the hotel (late checkout is arranged until 18:00).

This evening, be met by the guide who will assist with a private transfer to Hanoi Railway Station for an overnight train to Lao Cai. 

Overnight on train

Notes: From late July to October, mountainous areas (such as Sapa, Mu Cang Chai, Ha Giang, Ba Be and Cao Bang) are at their best with beautiful rice fields. However, seasonal typhoons and heavy rains may cause landslides and itinerary disruptions, requiring flexibility for travel during this period.

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

📍 Transfer Lao Cai - Bac Ha (70 km): approx. 1,5 hours Transfer Bac Ha - Sapa (97 km): approx. 2 hours

Arrive in Lao Cai early in the morning and be greeted by the guide and transfer to a local restaurant for breakfast. Then driving to visit a local market (Coc Ly on Tuesday / Can Cau on Saturday / Bac Ha on Sunday).

Here, see mostly Flower Hmong however Phu La, Black Dao, Tay, Nung hill tribe groups also gather here. The market offers a variety of local products, which could not be found in other areas, such as an interesting animal market where pot-bellied pigs, cows and buffalos can be seen. Continue the tour on a short walk to a hill-tribe village. Here, have the opportunity to visit some local homes to understand more on the daily life of these tribes as well as their culture and traditions. Transfer to the former hill station of Sapa.

Note: Bac Ha market is the largest one and often draws a large crowd, including many tourists. Can Cau and Coc Ly markets are smaller and offer a more local experience and quieter atmosphere.

Option: Half day waking in Black H’mong Village for an alternative experience to visiting market:

About 5km southeast of Sapa town, Ma Tra Valley is known for its beautiful landscapes and terraced rice fields. The Hmong people settled here in the early 20th century, creating terraced fields to support themselves through rice farming.

After breakfast, transfer from Lao Cai to the starting point for a scenic downhill walk, crossing a stream to reach Suoi Ho village, which sits on a low hill. Stop at a few local homes to learn about traditional life. Then, follow a stone-paved hillside path through Ma Tra village, with lovely views of the valley, rice terraces, and flower farms. The trip ends with a transfer back to Sapa, and the rest of the day is free for leisure.

Note: Appropriate footwear must be worn on treks. Note that if conditions are wet, programs may be changed. 

Trekking route adaptable for fitness levels.

Overnight in Sapa

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

Early this morning depart with the guide for a half-day trekking tour to Hang Da and Sau Chua Villages, just about 8 km east of Sapa where the Black Hmong people have been living their traditional and unique way of life despite the recent changes and effects caused by the fast development and tourism boom in Sapa town.

Enjoy walking with the guide along the quiet narrow pathways through the countryside and past the scattered modest houses of the Black H’mong people. The trekking route can be adjusted depending on energy levels, fitness and weather conditions.

Return to the hotel to check out by 12 noon, and then there is some time to spend at leisure for lunch (not included - at your own account) and last minute exploration of Sapa town. 

Note: Appropriate footwear must be worn on treks. Note that if conditions are wet, programs may be changed. 

Trekking route adaptable for fitness levels. 

Overnight in Sapa

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

📍 Central Hanoi to Sapa (315 km): 6 hours

Spend the morning at leisure before being picked up by the guide and driver for a drive back to Hanoi around midday.  

Evening at leisure. 

Overnight in Hanoi

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

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 09:00 for the 2.5 hours drive to Halong City. Arrive at the pier around noon and proceed with check-in formalities. 

After the welcome onboard and checking into the cabin, lunch will be served whilst cruising. In the afternoon, enjoy some visits or activities (depending on the boat’s set itinerary). Towards the end of the afternoon, the boat will anchor for the night surrounded by karst formations. 

Enjoy sunset on the deck followed by dinner, then retiring for the evening. 

Notes: 
- The cruise’s itinerary may be subject to change depending on weather conditions.
- Over the past years Halong Bay has been experiencing increasing environmental problems such as pollution, overfishing and impairment of its natural habitats. We encourage you to enjoy the beauty of Halong Bay, but also to help protect and preserve it so that future generations can experience its beauty with responsible tourism behaviour which is crucial to reducing issues on Halong Bay and ensuring its long-term sustainability.
-  To ensure we can effectively manage guest dietary needs during the cruise, please provide a list of any specific food restrictions or preferences at least 7 days prior to arrival. Please note that accommodating last-minute dietary changes may not be feasible and could incur additional costs  

Overnight on Halong / Lan Ha Bay

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

📍 Halong City - Hanoi Noi Bai Airport (190 km): approx. 3,5hrs / Da Nang Airport - Central Hoi An (30 km): 50 mins

Wake up to the fresh morning amidst the islands of the bay for breakfast (brunch on some boats) while enjoying the serene setting of the spectacular rock formations. 

Mid-morning, proceed to checkout as the cruise cruises towards port.  Disembark and transfer 3 hours to Hanoi’s Noi Bai Airport for the 1.5 hour flight south to Danang City.

Be greeted upon arrival then transfer approx. 50 mins (30km) 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.    

Rest of the afternoon at leisure.

Notes: 
- A surcharge applies between the following hours: 18:00-07:00
- If you’re unable to find the guide in the arrivals area, call the 24-hrs customer care number +84 917332246.
- Please note the standard check-in time at hotels is 14:00

Overnight in Hoi An

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

📍 Hoi An to My Son (40 km): 1 hour

Today’s tour will begin at 08:00. Spend a day immersed in the rich history of Central Vietnam.

After around 1-hour driving from central Hoi An, arrive at the cultural highlight of Central Vietnam, the temple complex at My Son (pronounced Me Sern). Granted UNESCO World Heritage status in 1999, the tower temples were the seat of the Champa Kingdom for most of its existence between the 4th and 13th centuries. 

Wander around the crumbling ruins, hearing about the Cham culture, its rulers and their impressive reign. Take a moment to soak up the serene atmosphere and imagine what My Son was like in its heyday. 

After this glimpse into Central Vietnam’s ancient history, return to Hoi An. Take a break at a restaurant to sample some of the town’s most famous dishes. 

The afternoon will be spent walking Hoi An’s old town to learn about its illustrious past as a trading port. See the remarkably well-preserved traditional houses that have withstood hundreds of years of weather and war. 

Start at the Japanese Bridge, which spans a small waterway and was built more than 400 years ago to connect the Japanese community with the Chinese who lived on the other side of the water. Admire the carvings and paintings inside the bridge, learning about their symbolism and cultural significance.

Continue to a Chinese communal hall, a colourful mélange of bright gates, dragon statues and elaborate rooftops. Additionally, explore smaller laneways and local neighbourhoods, gaining a better appreciation of Hoi An’s endless charm. After this insightful glimpse of Hoi An, return to the hotel or your next destination.
 
Overnight in Hoi An

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch

📍 From Central Hoi An - Da Nang Airport (30 km): 50 mins Tan Son Nhat International Airport to Central HCMC hotel (8 km): 30 mins

Transfer approx. 50 mins (30km) from Central Hoi An to Da Nang Airport in the comfort of a private, air-conditioned vehicle with a private driver and a guide for a short flight to dynamic Ho Chi Minh City, still referred to as Saigon by the locals. Once known as the ‘Pearl of Indochina’, Saigon boasts an enormous architectural wealth, mirroring its colourful history. From the pagodas, museums and European architecture of the city’s recent past to the growing number of skyscrapers, Saigon is like a trip through time. 

Upon arrival to Ho Chi Minh City, be met by the guide and driver and travel to the hotel to check in (please note that typical check-in time is 14:00).

This evening, explore Saigon on a vintage Vespa. At 18:00, get acquainted with the driver and your motorbike before making the first stop of the evening, a vibrant rooftop with sweeping city views. Take some pics, and sip a refreshing cocktail whilst enjoying the evening breeze. 

From the city height’s, back down at street level, cruise through the busy streets and pass some of the famous landmarks in this vibrant city. The first food stop, dive into local culture at an authentic seafood restaurant. Groups of people gathering to eat seafood and drink beer is the way Saigonese wind down after a busy day.  

Continue by pillion across town to one of the city’s institutions, a ‘bánh xèo’ restaurant. This savoury pancake is highly favoured by Vietnamese from Saigon and beyond and is a must-try for any food enthusiast.  

Once sated, continue with your driver to a vibrant live music venue featuring live performances. Fueled with delectable food and catchy tunes, hop back on the Vespa for the final ride back to your hotel.

Overnight in Saigon

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🍗 Dinner

📍 From Central HCMC hotel - Tay Ninh (88 km): 130 mins

Today begins at 08:00. Depart early this morning to avoid the crowds at Cu Chi. Drive away from Ho Chi Minh City, through urban areas.

Spend a couple of hours walking around Cu Chi’s rugged grounds with a local guide. Hear how the residents constructed an intricate, underground network of tunnels during the country’s recent wars. Crawl underground (optional) and have a look at the tiny chambers, imagining what life was like for those who lived there. Once above ground, see other ingenious items used by the residents to defend themselves such as bamboo traps and camouflaged pits. 

Throughout the tour, the guide will explain the impact of war on the local community and the country as a whole. Following this insightful visit, journey back to Ho Chi Minh City for lunch.

After lunch, visit perhaps the city’s most famous landmark - the Reunification Palace. Now preserved in a time warp, the ‘war rooms’ in the basement plus the opulent display’s are fascinating.  

Stroll through lovely 30 April Park to the Central Post Office. Here, you can also glimpse the former CIA building, where one of the last helicopter evacuations took place in 1975.   

Finish up the day at another historic site, the Ben Thanh Market. Still functioning as a local neighborhood market, the central location also welcomes travelers with a variety of stalls. 
Having gained greater understanding of Saigon's culture and history, return to the hotel.

Overnight in Saigon

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch

📍 From Central HCMC - Ben Tre (110 km): 150 minutes From Ben Tre - Can Tho (130 km): 160 minutes

Today’s tour starts at 08:00 with a pickup from the hotel in the city centre. Leave the busy streets and modern buildings of Ho Chi Minh City behind on this Ben Tre day trip. Drive 2.5 hours south of the city to Ben Tre, known as the land of coconut in the Mekong Delta.

On arrival in Ben Tre Province, board a local boat for a first glimpse of Delta scenery. Sip a freshly picked coconut as the boat winds through the maze of canals.

Stop at a brick kiln where locals still use centuries-old traditional methods. Following, visit a coconut workshop to see the processing and learn how every part of the nut is used. 

Continue to get to know the region’s family-run cottage industries such as coconut candy making. See many local women spending their days boiling cauldrons of sticky coconut paste before rolling it out and slicing sections into squares. 

Enjoy lush tropical fruits and honey tea in a garden before exploring the riverside promenade and narrow lanes that are ideal for a bicycle ride or choose to hop on a motor-tricycle which was once the iconic vehicle and main means of transportation in southern Vietnam in the 1960s (Please note: motor-tricycle to be requested in advance).

After lunch at a riverside restaurant with Mekong Delta specialties, get a closer look at delta life with a sampan boat trip, rowing through a hidden maze of small, waterpalm draped canals; this is the quintessential Mekong delta.

As the sun begins to dip lower in the sky it is time to return to Cai Be and onwards to Can Tho. 

Overnight in Can Tho

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch

Start the day early with a cruise to Cai Rang, once the largest floating market in the Mekong Delta. The waterway of boats, both tourists and traders can be seen, although some days there are few traders (due to time of year/demand). See local produce depending on the season for sale - mango, bananas, papaya, pineapple, and even floating coffee sellers and noodle soup vendors. Here boats laden with fruit and vegetables, with the vendors jostling for the best positions on the river.

After check-out, be transferred to the airport for a flight to Phu Quoc (Depending on the season, extra days in Hoi An can be added or Nha Trang / Con Dao can be chosen, as an alternative to Phu Quoc) 

On arrival in Phu Quoc, be transferred to the resort by the resort’s scheduled shuttle bus.  

Spend the rest of the day to relax by the pool or on the sandy beach. 

Overnight in Phu Quoc

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

A full day at leisure in the resort or on the beach.

Overnight in Phu Quoc

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

A full day at leisure in the resort or on the beach.

Overnight in Phu Quoc

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

Spend the morning at leisure before checking out. Be transferred to the onward departure flight to Ho Chi Minh City via the resort’s shuttle bus. 

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast