The New Vietnam
14 Days package price for just £1,199 per person (single supplement £510)
As Vietnam moves into the 21st century it is fast becoming one of the most popular places to visit in the Far East. Experience the contrast that is Vietnam with an ancient culture, each street corner alive with history, and yet vibrant big-city facilities that rival those found anywhere else in the world. We will meet famous photographers, artists and local families, giving a truly in-depth look into life inside the new Vietnam.
Temple of Literature
Day 1 - Saigon arrival
Upon arrival you will be welcomed and transferred to your 4* hotel in city centre. If time permits, we will pay a brief visit to the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Unification Palace and the vibrant China town.
Day 2 & 3 - Saigon
Today we enjoy a day trip to My Tho to sample life on the Mekong River, exploring the intricate waterways, local farm houses and fruit orchards by sampan. (B/L)
The following day we tour outside the city to the Cao Dai Temple at Tay Ninh to view the exquisite combination of the world’s major religions into one and explore the infamous Cu Chi Tunnel Complex built by communist guerrillas during the Vietnam War. (B/L)
Day 4 & 5 - Saigon to Dalat
Today we say goodbye to Saigon and ascend to the cool mountain climate of the Central Highlands and the town of Dalat, a delightful hill station established by the French, surrounded by pine forests and lakes. The whole way from Saigon to Dalat promises you the breathtaking view of coffee plantations. An orientation tour in the afternoon includes a ride on the longest cable system in Vietnam, a visit to Truc Lam Pagoda and a stop at Dambri waterfall. (B/L)
A highlight of the following day is a jeep tour to a tribal village of the Lak, located 16 km from Dalat. There will be relaxing time to explore the quiet streets, surrounding hills, French villas and also time to spend with a local artist monk. We will also visit the “Crazy House”; designed by Ms. Hang Nga, an architect of some repute known on the highlands. (B/L)
Day 6 & 7 - Dalat to Nha Trang
Travelling across the breathtaking Ngoan Muc Pass, through vestiges of the ancient Champa Kingdom, we arrive at the picturesque coastal town of Nha Trang, famous for its beautiful mountains and beaches. (B/L)
Here we will enjoy great swimming, marvellous seafood, relax on palm-fringed beaches: Visiting Tri Nguyen Aquarium for a collection of sea fish, swimming or snorkeling around Tam Island, relaxing on Mun Island and enjoying lunch at a fishing village. We also visit the renowned Vietnamese black and white photographer, Tran Thanh Long. Experiencing his artwork is the highlight of today’s activities. (B/L)
Day 8 & 9 - Nha Trang to Danang
Flying in the morning from the former Vietnam War military base at Cam Ranh Bay, we arrive at Danang, the third largest city in Vietnam. We will tour the caves and shrines of the Marble Mountains – a former base for communist guerrillas during the war, and end with a tour of the Cham Museum. (B/L)
The following day we visit Hoi An, a charming and wonderfully preserved merchant town that retains Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese and European influences from its unique and ancient history. We will explore its narrow lanes and historic architecture, finally taking part in a cooking class at the Red Bridge Restaurant. (B/L)
Day 10 & 11 - Danang to Hue to Hanoi
Today we travel over the Hai Van Pass, north of Danang Bay, and arrive in Hue City. Here we explore the ruins of The Citadel – the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty in Hue and now declared a world heritage site. (B/L)
The following morning we board a dragon boat for a leisurely cruise up the Perfume River to Hue’s oldest and most revered pagoda, Thien Mu. We will then take a two-hour walking tour to Minh Mang’s Tomb with a stop for lunch at a local house. Our host and friend will invite us to join in an informal cooking class. Later we board a flight to Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital and cultural centre, and transfer to the Sofitel Metropole Hanoi, Hanoi’s most historic, well-preserved address, dating from 1903. (B/L)
Day 12 & 13 - Hanoi/Halong Bay
Today we journey east to Vietnam’s greatest natural wonder, Halong Bay. We shall spend the afternoon cruising the bay’s 3,000 magnificent limestone islets. We will spend overnight on board the deluxe junk in Halong Bay and if the weather is favourable we can enjoy a swim in the opal water. (B/L/D)
The following morning we continue exploring Halong Bay till 11:30. Transfer back to Hanoi for refreshment in your hotel then start to reveal the charms of Hanoi by rickshaw, touring the ancient Temple of Literature and lively Old Quarter. The rickshaw tour ends at Hanoi’s famed Water Puppet theatre. For our last evening in Hanoi we have an interesting cocktail meeting with foreign journalists from the world press and media company at the Hanoi Press Club. We will get to know the “New Vietnam” from the perspectives of Vietnam’s expatriates and media. This will be followed with a farewell dinner at the Press Club’s fine dining room. (B/L/D)
Day 14 - Hanoi departure
Today you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home. End of itinerary. (B)
14 Days package price for just £1,199 per person (Single Supplement £510)
Price includes:
- 4* hotel accommodation (on twin share basis)
- Meals: daily breakfast at hotel and others as mentioned in itinerary
- Sightseeing excursions with English speaking guides
- All road transportation in private air-con bus or minibus
- Entrance fees
- Domestic flights
- Boat trip as mentioned in sights
- Government tax and service charge
- Luggage handling and drinking water
Price excludes:
- Visa fee ($25 available at airport)
- International flights
- Departure tax
- Personal expense such as laundry or drink during meals etc.
- Optional visits
- Travel insurance (can be arranged, please ask for details)
- Tips to guides and drivers
| Date (depart - return) |
|---|
| 06 - 19 Oct 2008 |
| 20 Oct - 02 Nov 2008 |
| 10 - 23 Nov 2008 |
| 24 Nov - 07 Dec 2008 |
| 08 - 21 Dec 2008 |
| 12 - 25 Jan 2009 |
| 26 Jan - 08 Feb 2009 |
| 16 Feb - 01 Mar 2009 |
| 02 - 15 Mar 2009 |
