Vietnam Grand Discovery 11 Days: Northern Conquest to Con Dao Seclusion – Lan Ha Bay Serenity & Mekong Warmth

Emotional Focus: Reflection and Appreciation for Heritage

Begin your day at 9:00 AM with a deep dive into Vietnam’s heritage. Explore the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu), the country's first national university. Walk beneath the ancient trees and view the "stone steles"—a moment of scholarly reflection on the nation’s enduring intellectual legacy.

Next, gain profound insights at the Ethnology Museum, spending two hours exploring the customs, musical instruments, and unique homes of Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups.

The afternoon contrasts history with the French influence of the French Quarter (a "little Paris") and the historical complex around Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum. Conclude the day with the unique, centuries-old performance art of the Water Puppet Show—a delightful cultural fusion you won't soon forget.

• Accommodation: Palago Boutique Hotel (Executive Room) or similar.

• Included: B, Transportation, Entrance Fees, Water Puppet Show.

Emotional Focus: Natural Conquest and Close-to-Nature Serenity

Today, we embark on a natural conquest to Ninh Binh (2 hours), driving through the picturesque Red River Delta countryside.

Upon arrival, choose your close-to-nature adventure: an exhilarating 15km bike ride (optional, or a gentle walk) along the dyke, offering majestic views of rice fields framed by limestone mountains. Stop to meet locals and discover the ancient Thung La Temple, where you’ll meet the guardian, Mr. Tuong, for an authentic conversation and a unique 20-minute drum show.

The highlight is the sampan boat trip through the breathtaking Van Long Nature Reserve. Glide silently through this submerged landscape, often spotting white monkeys and various species of egrets. Finally, visit a local embroidery village to take part in an embroidery course with craftswoman Mrs. Lam, practicing this delicate, traditional skill before returning to Hanoi.

• Accommodation: Palago Boutique Hotel (Executive Room) or similar.

• Included: B, L, Boat Trip, Biking (Optional), Drum Show, Embroidery Course, Entrance Fees.

Emotional Focus: Tranquil Escape and Unspoiled Majesty

Leave the city behind and transfer to Hai Phong for the Lan Ha Bay experience (2.5 hours). You’ll be warmly welcomed aboard the luxurious Peony Cruise.

1:00 PM: Savor a special fresh seafood lunch as we set sail into the quieter, more pristine seclusion of Lan Ha Bay. In the afternoon, we reach the beautiful Tra Bau area for our close-to-nature exploration. This is the ideal time for kayaking amongst the magnificent limestone islands and swimming in the emerald waters.

As the sun sets over the Gulf of Tonkin, join the Sunset Party and participate in a fun cooking demonstration, learning to roll fresh Vietnamese spring rolls (Nem Cuon). The evening concludes with a delectable romantic dinner and the chance to relax at the sky bar or try squid fishing under the stars.

• Accommodation: Peony Cruise (Deluxe Balcony Cabin).

• Included: B, L, D, Shuttle Bus, Kayaking, Swimming, Cooking Demonstration.

Emotional Focus: Discovery, Contrast, and Anticipation

Start the day with a rejuvenating sunrise Tai Chi session on the sundeck. After breakfast, we take a short transfer to Trung Trang Cave on Cat Ba Island—one of the largest and most impressive geological sites in the region.

After returning to the cruise for an early lunch and check-out, you disembark and take the shuttle bus back to Hanoi. In the late afternoon, your driver will transfer you to Noi Bai Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon).

Upon arrival (approx. 10:30 PM), you'll be greeted by your Southern guide and driver and transferred to the Elios Hotel. The northern conquest is complete, and the Southern journey begins!

• Accommodation: Elios Hotel (Senior Superior Room) or similar.

• Included: B, L, Transportation, Entrance Fees, Domestic Flight (HAN-SGN).

Emotional Focus: Resilience and Historical Clarity

Your day begins at 8:00 AM with a visit to the powerful Cu Chi Tunnels—a sprawling underground city spanning over 250km. This is a sobering but essential experience demonstrating the incredible resilience and ingenuity of the Viet Cong forces. You will have the opportunity to enter a safe section of the tunnels. (Optional: Try the Cu Chi shooting range.)

In the afternoon, we delve into the city's modern history, starting with the Independence Palace, the historic former residence of South Vietnamese Presidents. We then admire the magnificent French colonial architecture of the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Saigon Central Post Office (designed by Gustave Eiffel). Conclude your city tour by navigating the legendary Ben Thanh Market, the perfect place to find souvenirs and sample local street food.

• Accommodation: Elios Hotel (Senior Superior Room) or similar.

• Included: B, L, Transportation, Entrance Fees.

Emotional Focus: Gentle Rhythms and Genuine Warmth

Today, experience the famed Mekong Delta (2.5 hours). We travel to Ben Tre, the "Coconut Kingdom," known for its dense network of waterways.

Upon arrival, take a traditional boat trip on the Ben Tre River, absorbing the gentle rhythms of daily life. Visit Nhon Thanh Village to taste fresh fruits and then choose between a bike ride or tuk-tuk along quiet paths, surrounded by coconut groves and rice fields—a deep close-to-nature immersion. Lunch in the village features the regional specialty, Elephant Ear Fish. The day is dedicated to interacting with the locals and feeling the genuine warmth of the Delta people before returning to Saigon in the late afternoon.

• Accommodation: Elios Hotel (Senior Superior Room) or similar.

• Included: B, L, Boat Trip, Biking/Tuk-tuk.

Emotional Focus: Relaxation and Anticipation of Sanctuary

Say goodbye to the mainland bustle. We transfer to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your short flight to the stunning Con Dao Island.

Upon arrival at Con Dao Airport (approx. 10:55 AM), you’ll be privately transferred to the luxurious Con Dao Resort. This island is renowned for its pristine seclusion and historic beauty. The rest of your day is entirely at your leisure to relax, settle in, and perhaps take a first stroll along the breathtaking beach.

• Accommodation: Con Dao Resort (Deluxe Sea View) or similar.

• Included: B, Transportation, Domestic Flight (SGN-VCS).

Emotional Focus: Peace, Rejuvenation, and Unwinding

These two days are yours to enjoy ultimate seclusion and relaxation in this island sanctuary. Con Dao offers perfect tranquility far from the crowds.

Spend your time swimming, relaxing on the white sand beaches, or exploring the island's unique blend of history and nature. Optional activities include: snorkeling or diving in the clear waters, exploring the Con Dao National Park, or visiting the historical sites. Use these days to truly unwind and absorb the peaceful, restorative energy of this exclusive island paradise.

• Accommodation: Con Dao Resort (Deluxe Sea View) or similar.

• Included: B.

Emotional Focus: Gratitude and Lasting Memories

Enjoy a final leisurely breakfast and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of Con Dao Island. Take your last opportunity to walk along the beach before your private transfer takes you to Con Dao Airport for your afternoon flight back to Ho Chi Minh City (approx. 2:50 PM).

Your Vietnam Grand Discovery concludes upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, leaving you with incredible memories of Northern conquest, Southern warmth, and island seclusion.

• Included: B, Transportation, Domestic Flight (VCS-SGN).