Vietnam Highlights 11 Days: Hanoi, Lan Ha Bay Seclusion, Imperial Hue, Hoi An Lanterns & Mekong Warmth Discovery

Emotional Focus: Intellectual Depth and Historical Grandeur

Today, step back in time to explore Hanoi's grandeur and profound legacy. We begin at 9:00 AM with the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu), Vietnam’s first national university. Stroll through the elegant gardens, admire the symbolic Khue Van Cac, and reflect on the World Heritage "stone steles" that bear witness to centuries of Vietnamese scholarship.

Next, gain deep cultural insight at the Ethnology Museum, exploring the vibrant traditions, costumes, and unique architecture of Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups. The afternoon is dedicated to the French Quarter—the "Little Paris"—with its stately, tree-lined boulevards and colonial architecture. We walk through the significant Ho Chi Minh Complex, visiting the Presidential Palace and the humble House on Stilts where Ho Chi Minh lived and worked, concluding at the iconic, unique One-Pillar Pagoda.

The day is perfectly capped with the charming and ancient art of Water Puppet Theatre. Watch as puppets seemingly dance on water, bringing Vietnamese daily life, legends, and beliefs to life through a dazzling, traditional performance.

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

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

Emotional Focus: Majestic Escape and Close-to-Nature Seclusion

Leave the bustle behind and embark on a majestic escape! At 9:00 AM, we drive 2.5 hours on the new highway, past the tranquil rice fields of the Red River Delta, to the luxurious Peony Cruise.

1:00 PM: Be welcomed aboard with a refreshing drink and a gourmet lunch featuring the freshest Vietnamese and international cuisine as we set sail into the pristine UNESCO Heritage area of Lan Ha Bay—renowned as one of the World’s Most Beautiful Bays and prized for its seclusion.

3:30 PM: Your close-to-nature immersion begins in the unspoiled Tra Bau area. This is the golden time for kayaking. Paddle silently through the emerald waters, discovering hidden lagoons and small, untouched beaches, all surrounded by colossal limestone karsts. Alternatively, relax in the onboard Jacuzzi pool. The evening is pure magic: join a fun cooking demonstration (Vietnamese Spring Rolls) followed by a Happy Hour on the top deck to watch the magnificent sunset paint the Gulf of Tonkin. Indulge in an exquisite, romantic dinner before trying your luck at squid fishing under the starlit sky.

• Accommodation: Peony Cruise - 2D1N (Deluxe Balcony Cabin).

• Included: B, L, D, Cruise Transportation, Guide (on board), Kayaking, Entrance Fees, Cooking Demonstration.

Emotional Focus: Awe, Transition, and Charming Arrival

Start your day at 6:00 AM with an invigorating Tai Chi session on the sundeck as the sun rises, creating a moment of close-to-nature serenity. After breakfast, we visit the Trung Trang Cave on Cat Ba Island, a spectacular geological wonder. Spend an hour marveling at the thousands of stalactites that define this impressive limestone ecosystem.

9:30 AM: We return to the cruise for check-out and an early lunch before disembarking. Your driver meets you at the port for a smooth transfer back to Hanoi Airport for your flight south (VN181 / 16:10) to Da Nang.

Upon arrival in Central Vietnam, you will be warmly greeted and transferred directly to Hoi An, a journey of approximately 30 minutes. Check into your hotel and enjoy the enchanting atmosphere of this lantern-lit town, feeling the shift in pace and the promise of Central Vietnamese warmth.

• Accommodation: Delicacy Hotel & Spa (Deluxe City View Room) or similar.

• Included: B, L, English Speaking Guide, Transportation, Entrance Fees, Morning Tai Chi, Domestic Flight (VN181).

Emotional Focus: Authentic Connection and Hands-On Discovery

Today is dedicated to forging an authentic connection with Hoi An's vibrant culture, balancing history with close-to-nature village life. We begin with a gentle walking tour through the Ancient Town: visit the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge and the stunning architecture of the Quan Thang Ancient House, offering a rare glimpse into traditional family life.

After crossing the Thu Bon River by ferry, we arrive at Kim Bong Village, famous for its wood carving. Cycle around the village to meet skilled artisans and admire their craft. The journey continues to the tranquil countryside of Tra Nhieu Village where you will meet locals like Ms. Duoc (mat weaving) and Mr. Kha (bamboo basket making), experiencing genuine rural warmth.

The afternoon is hands-on! We arrive in Cam Thanh Village for a unique cultural experience: enjoy green tea and a relaxing foot massage with medicinal herbs, then join a fun cooking class to prepare famous local dishes like crispy pancakes and Hoi An spring rolls. Conclude the day with a memorable, relaxing ride in a small, round bamboo basket boat through the lush water palm forest.

• Accommodation: Delicacy Hotel & Spa (Deluxe City View Room) or similar.

• Included: B, L, English Speaking Guide, Boat Trips, Transportation, Entrance Fees, Bike, Foot Massage, Cooking Class.

Emotional Focus: Scenic Awe and Imperial Splendor

Prepare for one of the world's most beautiful drives! At 8:00 AM, we begin our journey to Hue, stopping first in Da Nang to visit the Cham Museum, home to the world’s finest collection of Cham sculpture. We then drive the legendary Hai Van Pass (Ocean Cloud Pass). Stop at the summit to capture the breathtaking, close-to-nature panoramic views of the curving coastline and ocean—a true moment of scenic awe.

Upon arrival in Hue, the atmosphere instantly shifts to one of imperial splendor. After lunch, we explore the spiritual heart of the city: Thien Mu Pagoda, an ancient symbol of Hue famous for its majestic octagon tower and poetic setting overlooking the Perfume River. Finally, we conquer the Hue Citadel, an imposing fortress modeled after Vauban fortifications, where you will explore the three concentric cities (Capital, Imperial, and Forbidden) that served as the home of Vietnam’s last dynasty.

• Accommodation: Rosaleen Boutique Hotel (Deluxe Double Room) or similar.

• Included: B, L, English Speaking Guide, Transportation, Entrance Fees.

Emotional Focus: Artisanal Depth and Dynamic Transition

Your final day in Hue begins at 8:00 AM with a beautiful Royal boat trip down the poetic Perfume River. Disembark at Tien Non Village for a serene bike ride through the countryside, visiting three traditional craft villages: Tien Non, Thanh Tien (famous for paper flower making), and Sinh Village (known for its 400-year-old folk prints). Meet local artisans like Mr. Hieu and Mr. Phuoc to learn their techniques—a highly rewarding artisanal immersion.

In the afternoon, we explore the final monument to imperial grandeur: the spectacular Khai Dinh King's Tomb. Distinguished by its dramatic blend of oriental and western architecture, the hundred-step climb to the worship palace rewards you with incredible, mosaic-filled interiors and a panoramic view of the surrounding hills.

In the late afternoon, we transfer to the airport for your flight south (VN1375 / 17:45) to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). Upon arrival, feel the vibrant Southern pulse as your local guide transfers you to your hotel in the heart of the city.

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

• Included: B, English Speaking Guide, Boat Trip, Transportation, Entrance Fees, Bike, Domestic Flight (VN1375).

Emotional Focus: Historical Resilience and Modern Energy

At 9:00 AM, we explore the historical resilience and modern spirit of Saigon. Our first stop is the Independence Palace, where you will tour the preserved rooms and the historic bunker basement, reflecting on the end of the Vietnam War.

Next, enjoy a relaxing walking tour past the iconic French colonial landmarks: the stately Notre Dame Cathedral and the magnificent Saigon Central Post Office, designed by Gustave Eiffel. We then drive to Chinatown to experience the glorious sensory overload of Binh Tay Market—a bustling hub of commerce and street food. Find a moment of peace at the ancient Quan Am Pagoda, one of the city's oldest and most serene temples. The day concludes at the fascinating Traditional Medicine Museum (FITO), preserving centuries of traditional herbal knowledge.

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

• Included: B, English Speaking Guide, Transportation, Entrance Fees.

Emotional Focus: Spiritual Depth and Personal Conquest

Set out at 8:00 AM for a powerful day of history and spirituality. We first visit the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels, the vast, 250km underground city that sheltered Viet Cong fighters and demonstrated incredible historical resilience. You will have the opportunity to crawl through a section of the tunnels, offering a visceral, personal conquest of the past. (Optional: Enhance your experience by trying real gun firing at the Cu Chi shooting range.)

We continue to Tay Ninh to experience the unique spiritual depth of the Cao Dai Temple. This distinctly Vietnamese religion blends elements of Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, and Catholicism. We will attend the mesmerizing midday mass, watching the colorful, synchronized ceremony that is unlike any other religious service in the world. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Saigon in the afternoon.

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

• Included: B, L, English Speaking Guide, Transportation, Entrance Fees.

Emotional Focus: Close-to-Nature Warmth and Authentic Connection

At 8:00 AM, we journey into the lush, life-sustaining ecosystem of the Mekong Delta—the "rice bowl of Vietnam." Our destination is Ben Tre, the Coconut Kingdom. Arriving at Hung Vuong pier, we immediately board a boat trip on the Ben Tre River, observing the daily rhythms of local life on the water.

This is true close-to-nature immersion: we continue by smaller canal to Nhon Thanh Village where you'll sample fresh tropical fruits. Hop on a bike (or Tuk Tuk) to ride the tranquil small paths through villages, past shimmering rice fields and endless coconut groves. Enjoy a delicious local lunch, including the regional specialty Elephant Ear Fish. The afternoon brings a serene boat ride through small, shaded canals lined with wild palm trees, completing your deep, authentic embrace of the Mekong's warmth. We return to Saigon in the late afternoon.

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

• Included: B, L, English Speaking Guide, Boat Trips, Transportation, Bike.

Emotional Focus: Gratitude and Future Journeys

Enjoy your final Vietnamese breakfast. Based on your flight schedule, your private driver will ensure a seamless and comfortable transfer to Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN). Depart with a lifetime of memories, having successfully achieved your Cultural Conquest of Vietnam, carrying with you the sights of Hanoi’s legacy, the splendor of Hue, the warmth of Hoi An, and the authentic pulse of the Mekong Delta.

• Included: B, Transportation.