2020 Highlight of Vietnam 11-day
Include 2 Days / 1 Night Cruise
Guaranteed Departure Based on Min. of 2 Passengers with Thursday Arrival in Saigon
(Tour Code: VN-SIC-23C)
VISITING CITIES: SAIGON - HUE - HOI AN - HANOI - CABIN / ONBOARD (VIETNAM)
Day 1 Saigon Arrival (Thur.)
When arriving in Saigon, you will be greeted by our professional tour guide
at the airport and then transferred to the hotel. The rest of the day will be
free for your own leisure.
Overnight in Saigon
Day 2 Saigon (B)
Sightseeing in Saigon A vibrant metropolis, Saigon teems with energy,
activity and motion. Everywhere you look, you see the convergence of
traditional and modern life. Begin the trip into modern history with a tour
of the Reunification Palace. Formerly the Independence Palace of the South
Vietnamese president, this 60s style building was famously stormed by tanks on April 30, 1975 signifying the fall of South Vietnam. It has been preserved in its original state, and the original tanks remain on display near the entrance gates.
Afterwards, drive to the historic centre to visit the Emperor of Jade Pagoda, one of Saigon's most interesting pagodas. Proceed to pay a quick visit to the neo-Romanesque Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office. Pass by the classic European-style landmarks such as the ornate City Hall (Hotel De Ville), the old Opera House (both may only be viewed from the outside). Finally, end up at the central Ben Thanh Market, where vendors display a vast array of goods and handicrafts, appealing to every taste.
Overnight in Saigon
Day 3 Saigon (B)
Day 3 Saigon (B)
Excursion to Cu Chi Tunnels
Never discovered by American forces, the Cu Chi Tunnels were an important Vietcong base during the American War. Stretching over 200 km, this incredible underground network, dug by hand out of hard laterite, connected command posts, hospitals, shelter and weapons factories. Today, walk through the area and learn about the day to day life of the Vietcong, bear witness to the cleverly disguised entrances and elaborate booby-traps, and even venture inside the tunnels, some of which have been modified to accommodate tourists.
Old Saigon Walking Tour
Take a walk through the city streets to unearth the secrets of Saigon. Set off from your hotel to a thriving local market to see how these bustling and vibrant markets play a major role in the daily lives of Vietnamese people. From here stroll through the colorful back alleyways lined with flower shops and breathe in the aromas of the freshly cut blooms.
Pass through another street where mechanics specialize in restoring vintage Vespa scooters. Take in the scenes of local life as you wander these narrow lanes. Stop for a refreshing traditional iced coffee in a hidden cafe frequented by locals. The oldest coffee shop in Saigon, this old-fashioned establishment has a colorful history stretching back over seven decades.
Pass through another street where mechanics specialize in restoring vintage Vespa scooters. Take in the scenes of local life as you wander these narrow lanes. Stop for a refreshing traditional iced coffee in a hidden cafe frequented by locals. The oldest coffee shop in Saigon, this old-fashioned establishment has a colorful history stretching back over seven decades.
Continue the walk through some other back lanes the go along to another famous street filled with shops selling locally-made guitars. Continue on foot through adjacent blocks with some old yet lively apartment compound and where one will encounter authentic life scenes of the urban working class. Walk toward an interesting museum which displays an amazing collection of more than 3,000 artifacts relating to the history of Vietnamese traditional medicine. After the visit, hop on the vehicle and drive back to your hotel.
Overnight in Saigon
Day 4 Saigon (B/L)
Day 4 Saigon (B/L)
Pedal and Paddle in Ben Tre
Immerse yourself fully in the local culture of the Mekong Delta with a day out to rustic Ben Tre. A journey of about two and a half hours will bring you to a peaceful area of lush orchards, green rice paddies and coconut fields. The fresh sweet coconut juice is said to be the best in the country. The industrious local residents have found many other uses for the humble coconut, including turning them into household items and cosmetics. Hop on a bike for a ride along the shady paths to visit the home of local antique collector, Uncle Six. This friendly older man will welcome you into his home from where he also sells his ceramics. If you're feeling fit, Uncle Six will even show you how to climb the coconut trees using just your bare hands.
Continue your two-wheeled exploration along rural pathways that wind their way alongside dense vegetation and small tributaries of the Mekong. Board a rowing boat and cruise along the small canals under the shade of the coconut trees. Then change your mode of transport to a motorized boat. After a delicious lunch of local specialties cooked by the host, visit some local workshops to see how rice paper and sticky coconut sweets are made.
Overnight in Saigon
Day 5 Saigon - Hue (B)
Day 5 Saigon - Hue (B)
Transfer
Flight from Saigon to Hue
Sightseeing in Hue
Hue served as the capital of Vietnam for more than 140 years. It houses ancient temples, imperial buildings and French-style edifices. It was established in the 17th century.
Visit the Imperial Tombs of Tu Duc and Khai Dinh
Venture into the countryside around Hue to the Imperial Tomb of Tu Duc. Tu Duc, the longest reigning Vietnamese emperor, designed and built this elegant tomb during his lifetime, using it as a retreat for meditation, reading and theatre performances. Take some time to soak in the tranquil atmosphere, wandering among the gracefully proportioned pavilions, courtyards and lotus ponds. Afterwards visit the Imperial Tomb of Khai Dinh, dramatically located on a hillside. The last of the monumental tombs of the Nguyen dynasty, completed in 1931, this tomb incorporates distinct European elements into traditional Vietnamese architecture.
Visit the Imperial Citadel
Located in the heart of Hue is the Imperial Citadel, a vast complex built in the early 19th century and modelled after the Forbidden City of Peking. The original walls stretched for 10 km and were surrounded by a wide moat. Today, most of the buildings have been destroyed due to bombing during the Vietnam-American War, but the monuments that remain provide a fascinating glimpse into the court life of the Nguyen Dynasty. Approach the city past the striking Flag Tower, where a giant Vietnamese flag waves proudly overhead, to the imposing Ngo Mon Gate, the main entrance to the Imperial Enclosure.
Enter into an area of spacious courtyards and serene lotus ponds, and visit Dien Tho Residence (Dien Tho palace) where the Queen mother lived, visit Thai Hoa Palace, the magnificently decorated reception hall, the Halls of the Mandarins, and the original Nine Dynastic Urns, among other sites, including a visit to the Hue Royal Antiquities Museum.
Overnight in Hue
Day 6 Hue - Hoi An (B/L)
Day 6 Hue - Hoi An (B/L)
Visit Vinh Tu Garden House with talking to the owner and enjoy lunch
Known as one of the most unique and beautiful buildings which is still remained after a long time. Vinh Tu (Tha Om Garden House) is not only a place to explore the city's architectural heritage but a venue as well for Hue's finest dishes. The house itself is a sophisticated garden with lotus ponds and pavilion, complete with low and dipping roofs to create an unforgettable memory for every visitors of the traditional Hue residence harmonizing with an exceptional Vietnamese dinner within the house or in the gardens when the sun sets. Meet the Royal family and listen to their family's stories is a way to recall the great history of the last Vietnam Feudal Dynasty. Lunch will be served at the garden house, enjoy the food with the host
By vehicle from Hue to Hoi An with sightseeing in Danang
Drive south from Hue along scenic mountain roads with spectacular views over the coastline. Highlights along the way include the dramatic Hai Van Pass, the high dividing line between the climate zones of North and South Vietnam; Lang Co, a lovely stretch of beach curving outwards between a clear blue lagoon and the East Vietnam Sea; and the large coastal city of Danang.After arriving in Danang, visit the Cham Museum, an elegant colonial building which houses the finest collection of Cham sculpture in the world; and pass by Non Nuoc Beach, a famous spot for American soldiers during the Vietnam-American War. Continue south to Hoi An, stopping enroute to visit the Marble Mountains, a group of limestone and marble hills filled with caves. The mountain represents the five elements of the universe.
Known as one of the most unique and beautiful buildings which is still remained after a long time. Vinh Tu (Tha Om Garden House) is not only a place to explore the city's architectural heritage but a venue as well for Hue's finest dishes. The house itself is a sophisticated garden with lotus ponds and pavilion, complete with low and dipping roofs to create an unforgettable memory for every visitors of the traditional Hue residence harmonizing with an exceptional Vietnamese dinner within the house or in the gardens when the sun sets. Meet the Royal family and listen to their family's stories is a way to recall the great history of the last Vietnam Feudal Dynasty. Lunch will be served at the garden house, enjoy the food with the host
By vehicle from Hue to Hoi An with sightseeing in Danang
Drive south from Hue along scenic mountain roads with spectacular views over the coastline. Highlights along the way include the dramatic Hai Van Pass, the high dividing line between the climate zones of North and South Vietnam; Lang Co, a lovely stretch of beach curving outwards between a clear blue lagoon and the East Vietnam Sea; and the large coastal city of Danang.After arriving in Danang, visit the Cham Museum, an elegant colonial building which houses the finest collection of Cham sculpture in the world; and pass by Non Nuoc Beach, a famous spot for American soldiers during the Vietnam-American War. Continue south to Hoi An, stopping enroute to visit the Marble Mountains, a group of limestone and marble hills filled with caves. The mountain represents the five elements of the universe.
Overnight in Hoi An
Day 7 Hoi An (B)
Day 7 Hoi An (B)
Sightseeing in Hoi An with a boat trip on the Thu Bon River
The exquisitely preserved merchant town of Hoi An was declared a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1999. Its colourful shop houses and temples reflect a diverse heritage, dating back to the 16th and 17th century, when it was a major port for Western, Chinese and Japanese traders. Today it is a thriving centre of traditional crafts and a shoppers' paradise, best explored on foot.
Wander through the cobbled streets, past low tile-roofed buildings, the bustling central market and the small harbour where colourfully painted boats are moored. The walking tour will include visits to a private house, where members of the same family have lived continuously for centuries in a traditional setting; to one of the family chapels built by prominent merchant or official families as centres for ancestor worship; and to a typical Chinese-style Pagoda or assembly hall.
Wander through the cobbled streets, past low tile-roofed buildings, the bustling central market and the small harbour where colourfully painted boats are moored. The walking tour will include visits to a private house, where members of the same family have lived continuously for centuries in a traditional setting; to one of the family chapels built by prominent merchant or official families as centres for ancestor worship; and to a typical Chinese-style Pagoda or assembly hall.
Finally, continue to the famous Japanese Covered Bridge, first constructed in 1593 by the Japanese community of Hoi An to link the town with the Chinese quarters across the stream. In the afternoon, board a local boat and cruise down the Thu Bon River, enjoying the unspoiled countryside and stopping to visit a pottery village and before returning to Hoi An harbour.
Overnight in Hoi An
Day 8 Hoi An - Danang - Hanoi (B)
Day 8 Hoi An - Danang - Hanoi (B)
By vehicle from Hoi An to Danang airport
Flight from Danang to Hanoi
Transfer
Walk the Rail Tracks of Hanoi
Start the tour on the rails a few meters north Hanoi's main train station. Walk along the very narrow streets hosting the rails sometime not even a metre far from the entrance door of houses. Enjoy this original and photogenic scene walking along the street until 153 Phung Hung where you go back down to the road and follow the street's sidewalk. Walk past a funeral home where you will see a group of people mourning and wearing the traditional white fabric around the forehead, which is the local equivalent to the western tradition of wearing black clothes.
Continue walking toward Long Bien train station. From Long Bien train station start to cross the bridge and stop half way to go down the stairs onto the urban island. Have a rest and visit the orchards.
Continue crossing the bridge and meet with the car which will transfer you to Gia Lam train station. Take your train ticket and jump in to cross the bridge on the other way, riding with the locals in the hard seater wagon. On week days you will stop at Long Bien, and on Saturday and Sunday you will stop at Hanoi Station. Meet your driver after disembarking and transfer back to your hotel.
Visit a Water Puppet Show
Watch a Water Puppet Show, a fantastic art form originating in northern Vietnam, best seen in Hanoi.
Overnight in Hanoi
Day 9 Hanoi - Halong - Cabin / Onboard (Vietnam) (B/L/D)
Day 9 Hanoi - Halong - Cabin / Onboard (Vietnam) (B/L/D)
By vehicle from Hanoi (city) to Halong Bay
Stop en-route for stretch your legs and use the restroom at one of the souvenir shop for charity.
Aboard the traditional cruise through Halong Bay, Day 1 of 2 * No local guide *
Depart from Hanoi to Halong Bay; en route take a short stop for a break. Transfer with a tender to the comfortable cruise and enjoy a welcome drink aboard. Begin the cruise through majestic Halong Bay while lunch is served. Enjoy the magical bay where thousands of sculpted limestone islands rise from the waves like dragon's teeth.
The cruise continues cruising through a fishing village on the bay and passes the spectacular limestone caves dotted around the bay. Soak up the sun on the top deck with optional on-board activities: sunbathing, and photo opportunities. In the evening the chef will prepare a splendid meal comprised of fresh seafood dishes and other traditional dishes.
Overnight in cabin / onboard (Vietnam)
Day 10 Cabin / Onboard (Vietnam) - Halong - Hanoi (B/D)
Day 10 Cabin / Onboard (Vietnam) - Halong - Hanoi (B/D)
Aboard the traditional cruise through Halong Bay, Day 2 of 2 * No local guide *
Greet the day with a morning Tai Chi exercise that offer a perfect opportunity to view the sunrise over the bay. After breakfast, visit a beautiful limestone grotto then back to the boat for a final glimpse of the Halong Bay while cruising back to the dock. Check out luggage and bid tidings to beautiful Halong Bay.
By vehicle from Halong to Hanoi
Foodies afoot in Hanoi
Enjoy a taste of local Hanoian life as you explore a local market and some of the city's best street food stalls. Meet your guide at the bustling Hom market, one of the biggest and most popular markets in Hanoi. Wander through the narrow alleyways passing colourful stalls piled high with a vast array of fruit, vegetables, sweets and elaborate temple offerings. Take photos of the vibrant colours and breathe in the aromas of the tropical fruits. If you're feeling brave, venture to the exotic section to see kicking frogs, silkworms and wriggling eels. The entire market is alive with the buzz and excitement of the locals bartering and haggling for the freshest ingredients at the best prices.
Greet the day with a morning Tai Chi exercise that offer a perfect opportunity to view the sunrise over the bay. After breakfast, visit a beautiful limestone grotto then back to the boat for a final glimpse of the Halong Bay while cruising back to the dock. Check out luggage and bid tidings to beautiful Halong Bay.
By vehicle from Halong to Hanoi
Foodies afoot in Hanoi
Enjoy a taste of local Hanoian life as you explore a local market and some of the city's best street food stalls. Meet your guide at the bustling Hom market, one of the biggest and most popular markets in Hanoi. Wander through the narrow alleyways passing colourful stalls piled high with a vast array of fruit, vegetables, sweets and elaborate temple offerings. Take photos of the vibrant colours and breathe in the aromas of the tropical fruits. If you're feeling brave, venture to the exotic section to see kicking frogs, silkworms and wriggling eels. The entire market is alive with the buzz and excitement of the locals bartering and haggling for the freshest ingredients at the best prices.
Your guide will take you to popular street food stalls where you can sample some of the city's signature dishes. Stop at a local coffee shop to taste this rich and flavourful drink then continue your culinary exploration with a stroll through the maze of bustling streets that make up the Old Quarter of Hanoi. Join the locals and pull up a plastic stool at a pavement stall to try Vietnamese snacks and a cup of iced tea, followed by a sweet dessert of fresh fruit and condensed milk. End the tour with a cold draught beer at a sidewalk stall popular with locals
Overnight in Hanoi
Day 11 Hanoi (B/L)
Day 11 Hanoi (B/L)
Sightseeing in Hanoi
Although it is the modern-day capital of Vietnam, Hanoi still retains the mystery and charm of past centuries. Narrow lanes and traditional shop houses invite an exciting exploration by walking, while it's many beautiful public spaces; lakes, parks, tree-lined boulevards and monuments; give the city an air of elegance and harmony with nature unique among Asian capitals.
Visit the Temple of Literature
The Temple of Literature has a peaceful series of walled courtyards and graceful gateways, and this monument is one of the best-preserved examples of traditional Vietnamese architecture. Founded in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius, this was also the site of Vietnam's first university. In one courtyard, giant stone tortoises bear stele on their backs, listing the accomplishments of graduating scholars.
Visit the Ho Chi Minh Memorial Complex (Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum be viewed from the outside only)
Start the exploration of the vast Ho Chi Minh Memorial Complex with a stroll past the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum which contains the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh (closed Mondays, Fridays, and from 15 June to 15 August). View the outside of the Presidential Palace and then walk through the park to the Ho Chi Minh Stilt House where Ho Chi Minh lived from 1958 until his final days in 1969. Preserved in the same condition as during his life, it may be viewed through the windows. Continue to the miniature 11th century One Pillar Pagoda which was rebuilt after being destroyed by the French in 1954.
Visit the Museum of Ethnology
The Museum of Ethnology brings to life the astonishing ethnic diversity in Vietnam, with art and artefacts from the 54 different ethnic groups that inhabit the country. Inside the museum are detailed descriptions of minority groups, with examples of their traditional clothing and way of life. Outside are faithful reconstructions of traditional longhouses, cemeteries and other distinctive ethnic buildings.
Although it is the modern-day capital of Vietnam, Hanoi still retains the mystery and charm of past centuries. Narrow lanes and traditional shop houses invite an exciting exploration by walking, while it's many beautiful public spaces; lakes, parks, tree-lined boulevards and monuments; give the city an air of elegance and harmony with nature unique among Asian capitals.
Visit the Temple of Literature
The Temple of Literature has a peaceful series of walled courtyards and graceful gateways, and this monument is one of the best-preserved examples of traditional Vietnamese architecture. Founded in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius, this was also the site of Vietnam's first university. In one courtyard, giant stone tortoises bear stele on their backs, listing the accomplishments of graduating scholars.
Visit the Ho Chi Minh Memorial Complex (Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum be viewed from the outside only)
Start the exploration of the vast Ho Chi Minh Memorial Complex with a stroll past the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum which contains the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh (closed Mondays, Fridays, and from 15 June to 15 August). View the outside of the Presidential Palace and then walk through the park to the Ho Chi Minh Stilt House where Ho Chi Minh lived from 1958 until his final days in 1969. Preserved in the same condition as during his life, it may be viewed through the windows. Continue to the miniature 11th century One Pillar Pagoda which was rebuilt after being destroyed by the French in 1954.
Visit the Museum of Ethnology
The Museum of Ethnology brings to life the astonishing ethnic diversity in Vietnam, with art and artefacts from the 54 different ethnic groups that inhabit the country. Inside the museum are detailed descriptions of minority groups, with examples of their traditional clothing and way of life. Outside are faithful reconstructions of traditional longhouses, cemeteries and other distinctive ethnic buildings.
Rest of time at leisure. Transfer to airport for homebound flight. Tour ends.
B-Breakfast / L-Lunch / D-Dinner
*Note: Hon Chen Temple festival will take place on Perfume river in Hue between March - April and August - September. Please check your traveling date with us in advance.
*An additional surcharge for guide and vehicle may be applicable for bookings that fall during TET festival from 4-10 February in Vietnam. We will advise you in advance.
*An additional surcharge for guide and vehicle may be applicable for bookings that fall during TET festival from 4-10 February in Vietnam. We will advise you in advance.
Accommodation
| Hotel | Option A | Option B |
| Saigon | 3* Sonnet Saigon Hotel | 4* Northern Hotel |
| Hue | 4* Park View Hotel | 3.5* EMM Hotel Hue |
| Hoi An | 3* Indochine Hoian Riverside Hotel & Spa | 4* Hoi An Rosemary Boutique Hotel |
| Hanoi | 3* May De Ville City Centre 2 | 4* Flower Garden Hotel |
Cabin / onboard (Vietnam) | Oriental Sails / Deluxe (2Days 1Night) | Pelican Halong Cruise / Pelican Deluxe (2Days 1Night) |
*The accommodation will be provided in the above hotel or similar in case the priority hotel is unable to accommodate the booking.
Package Price (Twin Sharing): CAD$/Per Person
Tour Periods (Saigon Arrival on every Thursday) | Option A | Option B | ||
| Package Rate | Single Supplement | Package Rate | Single Supplement | |
| 01 Nov 2019 ─ 30 Apr 2020 | $2,265 | $609 | $2,539 | $909 |
| 01 May 2020 ─ 31 Oct 2020 | $2,225 | $589 | $2,469 | $835 |
*All prices are per person in CAD$, based on twin-sharing in double rooms in the default hotel for above listed category.
Single supplement will be charged starting from 2 passengers up for each passenger occupying a single room.
Cost Includes:
- Program is based on English speaking guide. For other languages, a supplement charge will apply.
- Accommodation as mentioned above or equivalent
- Meals according to itinerary. When very early morning flights are scheduled, a breakfast box may replace the standard hotel breakfast
- Flight ticket(s), in economy class unless otherwise specified, according to the itinerary (Flight from Saigon to Hue; Flight from Danang to Hanoi)
- Ground transportation in private A/C vehicle. Round trip airport transfers
- 1 complimentary bottle of drinking water and 1 cold towel per person per half day tour/ 2 bottles of water and 2 cold towels per person per full day tour
- Sightseeing incl. admission fees according to itinerary
Cost Excludes:
- International flight in/out Vietnam
- Visa fees (if needed, please contact us for Visa Procedures)
- Travel insurance
- Meals and drinks not mentioned in tour itinerary above
- Vietnam domestic airport taxes (if any, approx. CAD10-15 per person per flight)
- Tipping fees (based on your satisfaction) and other personal expenses
Dates of Arrival in Saigon First day of tour (Thursday) | ||||
| 31 Oct 2019 | 07 Nov 2019 | 14 Nov 2019 | 21 Nov 2019 | 28 Nov 2019 |
| 05 Dec 2019 | 12 Dec 2019 | 19 Dec 2019 | 26 Dec 2019 | 02 Jan 2020 |
| 09 Jan 2020 | 16 Jan 2020 | 23 Jan 2020 | 30 Jan 2020 | 06 Feb 2020 |
| 13 Feb 2020 | 20 Feb 2020 | 27 Feb 2020 | 05 Mar 2020 | 12 Mar 2020 |
| 19 Mar 2020 | 26 Mar 2020 | 02 Apr 2020 | 09 Apr 2020 | 16 Apr 2020 |
| 23 Apr 2020 | 30 Apr 2020 | 07 May 2020 | 14 May 2020 | 21 May 2020 |
| 28 May 2020 | 04 Jun 2020 | 11 Jun 2020 | 18 Jun 2020 | 25 Jun 2020 |
| 02 Jul 2020 | 09 Jul 2020 | 16 Jul 2020 | 23 Jul 2020 | 30 Jul 2020 |
| 06 Aug 2020 | 13 Aug 2020 | 20 Aug 2020 | 27 Aug 2020 | 03 Sep 2020 |
| 10 Sep 2020 | 17 Sep 2020 | 24 Sep 2020 | 01 Oct 2020 | 08 Oct 2020 |
| 15 Oct 2020 | 22 Oct 2020 | 29 Oct 2020 | ||
| *All Seat-In-Coach tours have guaranteed departure for minimum 2 passengers | ||||
Remarks:
- This is a land-only tour, please contact us for international flight rate. If you wish to book your own international flights to Vietnam, please feel free to consult us about your trip schedule before booking your flights
- Please note that compulsory gala dinners and peak season surcharges may apply during peak periods surrounding the public holidays of Christmas and New Year and Lunar New Year (TET Festival) - these surcharges will be confirmed at the time of booking
- Pre-night and post-night are available, please contact us for more details
- All prices per person and subject to change
- Hotel room based on twin share (double occupancy)