Capture the spirit of Vietnam on this compact adventure taking you from the European charms of Hanoi in the north to the hustle and bustle of Saigon in the south. Sip coffee with the locals in Hanoi, stroll the pristine shoreline around Halong Bay, take in the charming old-world air of Hue and marvel at the hectic pace of life in Ho Chi Minh City. This is an adventure full of beauty and contrast that will introduce you to the delicious cuisine, friendly locals, beautiful landscape and cosmopolitan cities of this fascinating country.

Day 1 Hanoi:
With its French-colonial buildings, graceful boulevards and aromatic cafe au lait, Hanoi has an elegant timelessness. Take in the ambience strolling around the city streets or taste the country's blend of old-world Europe and modern Asia in the restaurants.

Days 2-3 Halong Bay:
An overnight boat trip in this bay of wonders is sure to be a memorable experience. Sit back and soak up the scenery, swim in the balmy waters and sleep on board beneath a star-studded sky. Back in the capital, there's time to buy snacks for the journey ahead, aboard the famed Reunification Express railway.

Days 4-5 Hue:
Fringed by misty mountains and washed by the South China Sea, Hue was appointed imperial capital due to its beauty and isolation. Let the royal past come to life among the ruins of the Imperial Citadel and the Nguyen emperors' intricate tombs.

Days 6-7 Hoi An:
Traverse the spectacular Hai Van Pass en route to Hoi An, once a thriving port town. Today, trade remains central to everyday life, with shops offering everything from tailored clothes to custom-made shoes and silk lanterns. Get a pair of boots made or pick up some traditional paintings for friends back home.

Days 8-10 Ho Chi Minh City:
See the sights of the city from a cyclo and be moved by the displays at the War Remnants Museum. Enjoy a boat cruise along the Mekong Delta to spot the stunning Dragon, Unicorn, Tortoise and Phoenix islets before learning the secrets of longan honey from a local family of beekeepers. The lush scenery in this part of the world makes a fabulous backdrop for final photos.

Duration:
10 days

Tour Code:
VSF

Physical Rating:
2

Culture Shock Rating:
2

Accommodation:
Hotels (7 nts), overnight sailing junk (1 nt), overnight train (1 nt)

Transportation:
Plane, overnight train, minibus, overnight boat, cyclo, walking

Trip Style:
Intrepid Original

Group Size:
Maximum of 12 travellers per group

Departure:
Departure is guaranteed

Budget:
Allow USD $180 for meals not included.

Trip Kitty:

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