Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi.

Upon your arrival at Noi Bai airport in Hanoi via flight ???, you will be greeted by Lotussia Travel guide, driver and escorted to your hotel in town. Check-in hotel(*) and stay free at leisure. Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 2: Hanoi – Tam Coc – Hanoi (B,L).

We leave Hanoi at 08:00 and head south for the three-hour drive along Highway One.

Arrive in Tam Coc, Ninh Binh around 11:00, we then take a three hour boat trip along the Boi River. This area is rightly often referred to as the “Ha Long Bay on land” due to the similar topography.

After lunch (included), we move on to Hoa Lu where we spend one hour visiting the Dinh and Le sanctuaries. These are the two remaining temples of the ancient citadel of Hoa Lu. The first is dedicated to Dinh Tien Hoang (also known as Dinh Bo Linh), an Emperor from the Dinh Dynasty. The second commemorates the rulers of the Le Dynasty.

Return back to Hanoi.

Day 3: Hanoi – Halong bay. Cruise (B,L,D).

Join our shuttle bus (sharing) and enjoy the journey through the rich farmlands of the Red River Delta and the scenery of rice fields, water buffalo and everyday Vietnamese village life.

Arrive in Halong around noon and board the Bai Tho traditional sailing junk (or similar). Whilst cruising the exquisite waters sample the regions fresh seafood. Visit the recently discovered Surprise Grotto with its great views, and on the next island see the yawning mouth of Bo Nau Cave. Alternatively journey to Dau Go Cave and nearby see the famous stalagmites and stalactites of Thien Cung Cave. Enjoy a swim in the emerald waters of Halong Bay.

Watch the sun set over the bay whilst enjoying a delicious dinner.

Overnight on board junk.

Day 4: Halong bay – Hanoi (B).

Wake up to fresh coffee and a wholesome breakfast before cruising back to Halong City. Disembark at the dock at Halong City at 11:00 and transfer back to Hanoi.

Arrive back in Hanoi around 15:00. Free for your personal discovery/shopping.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 5: Departure (B).

Free until transfer to Noibai airport for onward flight back home. Flight ???. End trip.

Need more information? Contact us

                          

Sofitel Plaza hotel is one of the nicest in Hanoi, its outstanding feature is located in Central Hanoi, tucked between West lake and Red River.

The hotel has conference facilities for up to 500 people, a business centre, 2 restaurants, 3 bars and offers complimentary wireless internet in public areas and include 20 floors, On the twentieth floor, you can overlook the scenery of West Lake, Truc Bach Lake and the Red river. It is just 30 minutes from Noi Bai International Airport and 8 minutes from the main commercial and cultural centers.

                          

In recent years, the village has enjoyed the revival of its craft due to a surging demand for silk in both the domestic and foreign markets.

It has long been a universal byword of luxury, often worn by the world’s richest, most powerful citizens, nowadays, the fine and lustrous cloth that originally comes from the cocoon of the silkworm is much more affordable for “ordinary” folk.

Silk is currently enjoying a fashion renaissance, particularly as its many varieties can be made into a wide range of designs suitable for all facets of modern life.

It is not uncommon to see young Vietnamese people teaming a silk top with a pair of jeans, or wearing silk suits to work.

Silk  transforms a small village

Recently I revisited the village I last saw in 1993, and Van Phuc had certainly changed: the road leading to the inner village is now sealed with cement and concrete enforcements that allow big vehicles to trundle in and out with ease.

A large number of stores display their wares from modern shopfronts, some having installed air-conditioning to serve their customers in greater comfort.

The hum of looms and sewing machines whirs onto the streets, 10 years ago there were hundreds of machines, now they number in their thousands.

From dawn to dusk, clientele bump into each other constantly in this small strip, striking up conversations as they run into each other time and time again, swapping information about the best silk traders, and the best tailors back in the cities.

Responding to this wave of modern customers, many Van Phuc silk producers have embraced new retail approaches when plying their trade.

Many retailers have cottoned-on to the power of marketing, using business cards and the internet to advertise their products beyond the village.

With their newly acquired skills in customer care, the silk vendors can see the importance of building relationships between themselves and the buyers.

Shop assistants now instruct their customers on how to use and care for silk products, with most giving patrons’ free consultations on their goods prior to purchase.

Addiction to Van Phuc silk

In Van Phuc, one is confronted with an initially bewildering array of silk products, from the raw materials, to ready-to-wear garments, to a myriad of silk accessories.

The local silk is known for its smooth and lightweight appearance, qualities that enable it to be dyed more colours to suit a variety of skin tones.

To cater for the changing demands and tastes of customers, Van Phuc silk producers are expanding their silk and garment repertoire: traditional glossy, embroidered silks, double layers, wrinkled, and of course, more colours, hues and weights for which they have invented new techniques in dying and thermo-processing the threads.

It is not unusual to see the same customers wandering up and down for the entire day looking for his or her favourite pieces of silk – some end up becoming so enamoured of the material they spend many weekends here browsing the silk shops.

Many fashion designers from Ha Noi and other major cities around the country are now regular patrons of the village, ordering large quantities of silk  specially produced for them, and customers from fashion centres in France and Italy also arrive to place large orders.

A few bumps in the silk road?

The day I was there I came across a group of students from the Ha Noi College of Fine Arts, here to choose their favourite silks in order to design their own clothes.

The SARS outbreak earlier this year affected Van Phuc’s silk production and retail businesses when people ceased to travel to the village, and orders only came via phone or fax – although now the customers are returning in droves.

There is a downside to Van Phuc’s success, as the influx of non-fashion industry customers results in increased production of cheaper, lower grade materials – rapidly changing fashion trends also reduce the number of people demanding quality – so I urge the local Craft Guild to make sure that the traditional high-standards of Van Phuc silk are preserved for coming generations. — VNS

                          

The bustling industrious centre of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam also harbors the ancient traditions and culture of Vietnam and bears the influences of French colonial rule. Life in Ho Chi Minh City resides in the city streets, markets, shops, pavement cafés and vendors selling their goods on the sidewalks.

Besides soaking in the rich culture and ethos of Vietnam on the streets, the visitors are also offers a number of tourist attractions in Ho Chi Minh City, such as; Market of Cholon, Cu Chi Tunnels Emperor Jade Pagoda – This is a place of worship and an excellent example of a Chinese temple. The temple is an ancient architectural extravaganza with elaborate woodcarvings and sculptures depicting local deities.

                          

The major industry in Phan Thiet is fishing. The proximity of the Ca Ty river and the ocean make it a perfect place for the development of fishing industry. From July to October is the peak fishing season of the region. During this season the boats in the sea form a spectacular sight. It is said that around 100 varieties of fishes are available in the waters around Phan Thiet. The total catches per year amount to around 70,000 tons. The availability of the huge amount of fish makes it a perfect place for the excellent production of fish sauce. This fish sauce is available all over Vietnam resulting in an annual production of nearly 17 million liters.

Phan Thiet is home to some of the most beautiful and the most visited of the Vietnam tourist attractions. To the east of Phan Thiet are some exquisite beaches, one of the greatest attractions in the region. They are totally different from one another. While some are lined with coconut trees, the others are next to vast sand dunes. There is the beautiful Bai Rang, 15 kilometer northeast of Phan Thiet. It is beautifully lined with coconut trees. This beach has the Da Ong Dia (boulders of the Earth God) and the Suoi Tien (Celestial Stream).

The most famous tourist attraction in Phan Thiet is the Mui Ne Sand Dunes. 12 miles east of Phan Thiet the sand dunes are nothing short of nature’s work of art. The elements of wind have given it a shape worth viewing.

Another attraction of Phan Thiet is its proximity to Cape Mui Ne. It is a 21km of long arc of fine sand with a perfect combination of the sun and blue pacific water giving rise to a spectacular view.

The town of Phan Thiet has an appeal of its own. The streets are lined with colonial villas. The Ho Chi Minh Museum and the Ong Pagoda are some of the major tourist attractions that you shouldn’t miss on your Vietnam tours.

                          

According to legend, ageing Emperor Ly Thai To of the Ly dynasty, who had no children, used to go to pagodas to pray to Buddha for a son. One night, he dreamt that he was granted a private audience to the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, who was seated on a great lotus flower in a square-shaped lotus pond on the western side of Thang Long Citadel, gave the King a baby boy. Months later, when the Queen gave birth to a male child, the Emperor ordered the construction of a pagoda supported by only one pillar to resemble the lotus seat of his dream in the honour of the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara. According to a theory, the pagoda was built in a style of a lotus emerging out of the water.

Nowadays, One pillar pagoda is one of the pagodas having the most unique architecture in VN. It is a good destination for tourists, It opens all days in week.

                          

Hoi An is one of the most popular of the Vietnam tourist attractions. It lures the tourists in Vietnam, with its ancient charm of temples, shrines, Chinese style tile-roofed wooden houses and a unique blend of Japanese and Chinese architecture. A vacation in Hoi An would be an ideal one for those looking for a break from the busy city life with peace and tranquility around.

                          

Day 01: Arrive Hanoi (D)

Arrive in Hanoi. Free time to discover around the Old Quarter or just relax. Our guide and driver will warmly welcome you at your hotel lobby and escort you to a local restaurant for trip briefing and dinner. Overnight at hotel in Hanoi.

Day 02: City tour in Hanoi – Overnight train to Lao Cai (B,L,D)

After breakfast, drive to visit Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum (outside only), Ho Chi Minh’s house on stilt,  One Pillar Pagoda and then the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university constructed in1070, its gardens and well-preserved architecture offer a relaxing glimpse into Vietnam’s past. Continue to lunch at the Brothers café for a buffet style feast – an interesting fusion of Viet and western flavours, housed in a beautiful old style Vietnamese building with traditional music. In the afternoon drive to the Museum of Ethnology, Hanoi’s best and most interactive museum. Transfer toward Thanh Nien road and stop to visit Quan Thanh temple (Taoist, dating from the Ly Dynasty) and the Buddhist Tran Quoc Pagoda on West Lake (one of the oldest in Vietnam). Spend one hour on foot or by cyclo with a guided orientation stroll around the Old Quarter. Meet later to drive to the Thang Long Theater for a showing of the famous water puppets. From here drive to dinner in a small restaurant in Hanoi with good Vietnamese food. Following the dinner, transfer to Hanoi railway station in Le Duan Street for boarding on a night train to Lao Cai. Overnight on SUPERIOR train.

Day 03: Lao Cai – Muong Khuong district – Colorful market day – Sapa (B,L,D)

Arrive Lao Cai approximately 5h30 am. Our local team will meet the group at the station. Enjoy breakfast at a local restaurant in Lao Cai.

Transfer to Muong Khuong district and enjoy beautiful scenery along the ride until Lung Khau Nhin or Cao Son market on every Wednesday or Thursday. The market locates inside a small border quite modern town which is frequented by Flower Hmong, Tu Di, Pa Di, Tay and Giay ethnic minorities. They come to buy and sell local products such as food and material for agriculture and fabric. After spending the whole morning exploring the market, you will have lunch in a local restaurant nearby. You will then visit a village of Dao or Nung people, where you have opportunity to explore their daily life. You can make a stop nearby a waterfall before you get on the car heading back to Sapa. Check in hotel and free time for relax or discover this very small town. Dinner in town and overnight in hotel in Sapa.

Day 04: Sapa – Ma Tra – Ta Phin – Overnight train to Hanoi (B,L,D)

Leisure breakfast at hotel. Check out your room and start your moderate trekking day at 09h00. You will be heading toward Tram Ton direction around five kilometers from Sapa and going  by foot while passing through several minority villages along the way. The walk under the shadow of pine trees on other side of the Sapa town is very enjoyable. Continue through beautiful rice paddy and a local water flowing system by bamboo. Stop on the way to Ma Tra village of Black H’mong for lunch at a hill top then walk down hill to Ta Phin village of Red Dao. Arrive in Ta Phin in the afternoon and free time to communicate with local villagers and admire their perfect hand embroideries. Red Dao people is a master of medicinal plants and you can try a herb bath inside the village. Return to Sapa for shower and dinner before transfer to Lao Cai station and get the night train back to Hanoi. Overnight on board the superior train.

Day 05:  Hanoi – Halong half day cruise (B, L, D)

Our driver will pick up the group at the Ha Noi train station and drive toward a local  restaurant for breakfast. Driving time 3 – 3.5 hours to Halong city. Depart 08.00 arrive 11.30am. The route out to Halong City is newly upgraded. Learn about ancestor worship and the importance of the family in Vietnamese life, and how Vietnamese people bury their dead. Learn too about the rotation of rice crops compared with Southern Vietnam. Photo stop with some nice farmlands of the Red River Delta and the scenery of rice fields, water buffalo and everyday Vietnamese village life. Arrive in Halong and embark on the traditional comfortable junk. Fresh seafood lunch served on board whilst the junk will weaves through strange-shaped rock formations that invite comparisons from fighting cocks to dragons and even General de Gaulle’s nose. Visit the Sung sot (Surprise Grotto) with its great views. Free time on the Titop or Soi Sim beaches. Fresh sea food dinner and overnight on board.

Day 06: Halong half day cruise – Hanoi (Brunch or B & L. Dinner is not included)

Continue to cruise the Bay. The karts outcrops that you will sail by were formed from sediment that settled on the seafloor in prehistoric times. They rose to the surface through geological upheaval and erosion. When exposed to rainfall, the striking limestone formations weathered into their current strange, remarkable shapes. Gradually meander back towards Halong city with brunch or lunch served on board (depending on your choice of junks, meals will be organized differently). Check out time will be 11h00 – 11h45. Transfer by your car toward Bac Ninh province. If time permitted, visit Phu Lang pottery village in Que Vo district and learn how to make a product from a piece of land to a picture or vases. Continue to Hanoi and free time at hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 07 : Hanoi – Departure (B)

Breakfast at hotel. Free day for your own program. End of Northern trip.

                          

Day 1: Arrive Hanoi.

Upon arrival at Noi Bai airport in Hanoi via flight ???, you will be greeted by Lotussia Travel guide, driver then escorted to your hotel in town.

The rest of the day is free at leisure.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 2: Full day sightseeing tour. Hanoi – Laocai by train (B)

Start the sightseeing tour of Hanoi capital with the most important city’s highlights including the Ho Chi Minh Complex, containing the mausoleum of the nation’s founder Ho Chi Minh, the Presidential Palace and the Ho Chi Minh’s house on stilts. This complex also comprises the One Pillar Pagoda, whose origins date back to the foundation of city. We follow this with a trip to the Temple of Literature, which is well known as the first university of Vietnam.

After lunch (optional), we continue exploring the charming town of Hanoi with the impressive Ethnology Museum, dedicated to Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups, the peaceful lake of Hoan Kiem and Ngoc Son temple.

Have a short rest in a standard hotel in town (optional) before being transferred to Hanoi Railways Station for overnight train to Laocai.

Overnight on the train.

Day 3: Arrive Laocai early morning. Travel to Cao Son. Half day trekking (B,L,D).

Arrive Lao Cai early in the morning. You will be greeted by our local team and transferred to a local restaurant in town for breakfast.

After few minutes resting, the driver will take you to Muong Khuong district, via tea plantation and forest of pine. You might encounter Giay tribe in their traditional dress in Ban Lau or Thanh Binh. Reaching Cao Son about 10.am. Check in Cao Son lodge and relax. In the afternoon you will commence your walk to the most secluded yet peaceful village – Tin Thang. In this village, people still distill the wine from corn, making bacon in the most basic way and offering special corn cake to anyone who drop by their house.

Back to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 4: Visit Coc Ly Tuesday market + River boat trip on Chay river. Laocai – Hanoi (B,L,D).

After breakfast, you will travel by car to Coc Ly market which is open only on Tuesday. Every Tuesday morning, minorities from surrounding villages such as Flower Hmong, Black Zao and Tay, gather to sell and buy their products. After visiting the market, you travel by boat downstream. Along the ride, you can enjoy magnificent sight of the beautiful caves and life on the riverbank. You will have lunch at a nice spot or later in a village. The trip will also offers you a visit to Trung Do village of Tay minority, where you can stop by a traditional Tay house for a cup of tea. You will go further downstream until you arrive to Bao Nhai Bridge.

Dinner will be provided at a local restaurant in Laocai.

Then you will be dropped off at Lao Cai railwasy station where you will take the night train back to Hanoi. Departure at 20:30 (TBA).

Day 5: Arrive Hanoi. Travel to Halong bay. Cruise + Kayaking (B,L,D)

Arrive in Hanoi at 5:00 (TBA), you will be picked up by another Lotussia Travel guide, driver and transferred to a local restaurant in town for breakfast.

After a short rest, depart to Halong Bay. Enjoy the journey through the rich farmlands of the Red River Delta and the scenery of rice fields, water buffalo and everyday Vietnamese village life. Arrive in Halong and board the Bai Tho traditional sailing junk (or similar junk). Whilst cruising the exquisite waters sample the regions fresh seafood. Visit the recently discovered Surprise Grotto with its great views, and on the next island see the yawning mouth of Bo Nau Cave. Alternatively journey to Dau Go Cave and nearby see the famous stalagmites and stalactites of Thien Cung Cave. Enjoy a swim in the emerald waters of Halong Bay at any spot that you wish to visit (if weather permits) of take a kayak and start paddling through strangly shaped rocks.

Watch the sun set over the bay whilst enjoying a delicious dinner.

Overnight on board junk.

Day 6: Halong bay – Hanoi. Cyclo excursion + Water puppet show (B)

Wake up to fresh coffee and a wholesome breakfast before cruising back to Halong City. At 11:00, disembark at the dock at Halong City. Transfer back to Hanoi.

Enjoy a short cyclo excursion through the bustling old quarter streets named after the specific goods once offered for sales at these places.

In the evening, attend to the water puppet show, one of famous Vietnamese traditional art.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 7: Fly to Danang & travel to Hoian. Hoian sightseeing tour (B)

Transfer to Noibai airport for a short flight to Danang. VN ??? (the first morning flight). Welcome at Danang airport by Lotussia Travel team and then escorted to your hotel in Hoian ancient town.

After lunch (optional), we will start visiting of this charming small town, first commercial center in Vietnam since the 15th century, with more than 800 classified buildings. The tour includes such sights as the Japanese Covered Bridge, Tan Ky Old house, Assembly Hall Chinese, Phuc Kien Pagoda, Hoian Museum and Market.

Overnight in Hoian.

Day 8: Drive to Hue. Half day sightseeing tour (B)

After breakfast, leave Hoi An for Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. The scenic route passes through Danang before climbing over the Pass of Ocean Clouds and dropping down to the fishing village of Lang Co. Arrive in Hue and transfer to hotel.

In the afternoon, enjoy a boat trip on the Perfume River to visit the beautiful Thien Mu Pagoda. After our boat trip we will visit the Imperial City and the Forbidden Purple City. This royal residence was all but destroyed during the 1968 Tet Offensive, however it is still fascinating to walk among the ruins. We will continue visiting the mausoleum of former emperor Tu Duc or Khai Dinh’s.

Overnight in Hue.

Day 9: Fly to Ho Chi Minh city. Half day sightseeing tour (B)

Transfer to Hue airport for a short flight to Ho Chi Minh city. Flight ??? (the first morning flight).

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam named after the late communist leader Ho Chi Minh. Welcome at Tan Son Nhat airport in Ho Chi Minh city by Lotussia Travel guide, driver and then escorted to your hotel in town.

After lunch (optional), start the sightseeing tour of Chi Minh City with the most wanted highlights such as the Post Office, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Reunification palace. Then continue towards Cholon for a quick visit of Thien Hau temple and the Binh Tay market.

Overnight in Saigon.

Day 10: Half day excursion to Cu Chi tunnels. Drive to Can Tho (B)

Enjoy a morning drive through typical southern Vietnamese countryside to Cu Chi to visit the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, an incredible underground tunnel network constructed by Vietnamese resistance fighters during the long struggle for independence.

Then we will go back to Ho Chi Minh city for lunch (optional).

After lunch, depart for Can Tho, the capital city of the Mekong Delta.

Arrive in Can Tho around late afternoon. Overnight in Can Tho.

Day 11: Visit floating market. Return to Ho Chi Minh city (B).

The impressive floating market of Rai Rang is a major part of our sightseeing tour in delta region. Upon leaving hotel we set off on a short drive and enjoy a boat trip to explore Cai Rang, whose the trading way is unique; each boat usually sells one particular item, whether it be pumpkins, pineapples, sugar canes. In order that the customer knows where to shop, they hang that item from the highest part of the boat. At the end of the river trip we drive back to Ho Chi Minh.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city.

Day 12: Fly to Phnom Penh, Cambodia (B)

Free at leisure until transfer to Ho Chi Minh city airport for the flight to Phnom Penh, Cambodia (the morning flight).

                          

Upon your arrival at Noi Bai airport, Hanoi, you will be greeted by Lotussia Travel guide and driver and then escorted to your hotel in town. Check-in hotel and stay free at leisure (check in from 12h00). Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 2: Hanoi full day tour (B)

Breakfast at hotel. Then we will have a full day tour of Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi. Hanoi is a unique city with tree-lined boulevards, French colonial architecture, peaceful lakes and oriental temples. The city tour includes such sights as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda and the Temple of Literature – The first National University of Vietnam.

In the afternoon, continue to visit the Ethnology museum where you can find the biggest object collection of 54 Vietnamese ethnic groups. In the evening, attend to the water puppet show, one of famous Vietnamese traditional art. Overnight in Ha Noi.

Day 3: Hanoi – Ninhbinh (B)

Depart for Ninh binh. Visit the Phat Diem Cathedral. Phat Diem Church is really a group of different churches made of stone and wood, and is the centre of Catholicism in Northern Vietnam. It is designed in Vietnamese style mixed harmoniously with European Catholic traditions. Then we go back to Van Long for lunch (not included in the package). In the afternoon, have a rowing boat trip around natural caves and grottoes, admire the wonderful landscape of the tourist area.  Overnigt in Van Long.

Day 4: Ninhbinh – Maichau (B)

Transfer to Kenh Ga – “The Chicken Canal” for another motorized boat trip along the Hoang Long river to experience the real life of a Vietnamese catholic community. Set on the banks of the Hoang Long River, Kenh Ga is a remarkable place, not only because it is surrounded by the same massive rocks that dominate Hoa Lu, but also because for most of the year the entire community lives on the water itself. The floating village of Kenh Ga receives relatively few visitors compared to nearby Hoa Lu and the peoples’ aquatic way of life has changed little over the centuries.

After the boat trip, continue our journey to Mai Chau valley where we stop for overnight. Overnight on stilt-house.

Day 5: Maichau full day hiking (B,L)

Breakfast at the Thai stilt house then we leave the village for a full day hiking around. We will pass many different Thai hamlets, through rice fields, hill sides…Stop sometimes to visit local houses and talk with local people. Your picnic lunch will be provided on spot. And one of the highlight on this walk is to experience the everyday life and culture white Thai people and stay in their traditional house on stilts as honoured guests. In the evening, assist to the traditional music and dance show which is performed by the Thai young girls and boys who all come from the village. Try also some rice alcohol which is made of traditional plants and local sticky rice.

Day 6: Maichau – Hanoi – Laocai (B)

After breakfast, we take our journey back to Hanoi. Arrive in Hanoi around noon. Free lunch in town. In the afternoon, enjoy a short cyclo excursion through the bustling old quarter streets named after the specific goods once offered for sales at these places. After free dinner, transfer to Hanoi Railways Station for taking overnight train to Laocai. Overnight on the train.

Day 7: Laocai – Sapa – Mong Sen – Taphin (B,L,D)

Arrive Lao Cai approximately 5h30am. Our local team will meet the group at the station and transfer to Sapa. Breakfast will be provided at a local restaurant in Sapa before trekking uphill through mountainous area. Enjoy while walking the spectacular view over rice paddy terraces, corn fields. Your picnic lunch will be provided on the spot. After lunch, we continue our trek downhill towards Taphin village where you will meet Red Dao and Black Hmong minorities, two largest ethnic groups in Sapa area. Stop by a house to talk with local people to know a bit more about their daily life, their customs and tradition. Have dinner and
overnight in the village.

Day 8: Taphin – Matra – Sapa – Laocai – Hanoi (B,L)

After breakfast, we start our trek towards Sapa. We will pass through several minority villages; rive
paddy terraces along the way. Upon arriving in Matra village inhabited by Black Hmong people, we
will stop for our lunch. Then, we continue our walk to Sapa. Have a short rest/shower before transfer to Lao Cai station and get the night train back to Hanoi. Train???. Departure at 20:30 (TBA).

Day 9: Arrive Hanoi. Hanoi – Halong (B,L,D)

Arrive in Hanoi in the early morning, you will be met by another Lotussia Travel guide, driver then transferred to a local restaurant for early breakfast then depart to Halong. Enjoy the journey through the rich farmlands of the Red River Delta and the scenery of rice fields, water buffalo and everyday Vietnamese village life. Arrive in Halong and board the Bai Tho traditional sailing junk (or similar junk). Whilst cruising the exquisite waters sample the regions fresh seafood. Visit the recently discovered Surprise Grotto with its great views, and on the next island see the yawning mouth of Bo Nau Cave. Alternatively journey to Dau Go Cave and nearby see the famous stalagmites and stalactites of Thien Cung Cave. Enjoy a swim in the emerald waters of Halong Bay at any spot that you wish to visit or take a kayaking trip to explore the Bay (optional). Watch the sun set over the bay whilst enjoying a delicious dinner. Overnight on board junk.

Day 10: Halong – Hanoi – Hue (B)

Wake up to fresh coffee and a wholesome breakfast before cruising back to Halong City. En route the junk weaves through strange-shaped rock formations that invite comparisons from fighting cocks to dragons. Disembark at the dock at Halong City at 11h00. Transfer back to Hanoi.

Free time for shopping.

In the evening, transfer to Hanoi Railways station for taking the night train to Hue. Departure at 19h00. Overnight on the train.

Day 11: Hue full day city (B)

Upon your arrival in Hue Railways station at around 08h00am, you will be welcome by another Lotussia Travel guide and transferred to your hotel in town for breakfast and quick shower (early check in is subject to hotel availability).

Then we will board a private boat for a cruise on the romantic Perfume River. The charming Lady Pagoda (Thien Mu Pagoda), setting in converge of rivers will be the first stop of the day. The pagoda gives you a great view on the Perfume River and the surrounding area. Then we will be picked up again by our car for a short drive to the Minh Mang tomb. In the afternoon, we will experience the Hue citadel, which is recognized as a World Heritage Site. Overnight in Hue.

Day 12: Hue – Danang – Hoian. Half day Hoian city tour (B)

Depart for Lang Co, a small village of fishermen. Taking photograph from Hai Van Pass (The pass of Sea and Cloud). Arrive in Hoian around noon. Free lunch in town.

In the afternoon, start the visit of this charming small town, first commercial center in Vietnam since the 15th century, with more than 800 classified buildings such as Japanese Covered Bridge, Tan Ky Old house, Assembly Hall Chinese. Phuc Kien Pagoda, Hoian Museum and Market. Free dinner in town. Overnight in Hoian.

Day 13: Hoian – Danang – Saigon. Half day city tour (B).

After breakfast, transfer to Danang airport for the morning flight to Saigon.

Upon arrival in Ho Chi Minh city airport, you will be met by another Lotussia local guide and driver and transferred to city center. Free lunch in town.

In the afternoon, start the tour with Ho Chi Minh City highlights including the Post Office, cathedral, Reunification palace, centre town, then continuation towards Cholon, visit Thien Hau temple, Binh Tay market. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city.

Day 14: Saigon – Mytho – Cantho (B)

Today we depart hotel at 8h00 and make our way to My Tho. On arrival we embark on a boat navigating around the intricate small canals to observe the local lifestyle close-up and catch a view dotted by many islands. The exciting excursion will lead us to the famous Unicorn Island where we stroll around an orchard, taste many seasonal fruits and enjoy wonderful traditional music. We continue to Ben Tre Province to visit some fascinating local industries. We meet up with our vehicle for three hour drive to Can Tho, the capital city of the Mekong Delta. Overnight in Can Tho.

Day 15: Cantho – Saigon (B)

The impressive floating market of Rai Rang is a major part of our sightseeing tour in delta region. Upon leaving hotel we set off on a short drive and enjoy a boat trip to explore Cai Rang, whose the trading way is unique; each boat usually sells one particular item, whether it be pumpkins, pineapples, sugar canes. In order that the customer knows where to shop, they hang that item from the highest part of the boat. At the end of the river trip we drive back to Ho Chi Minh. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city.

Day 16: Half day to Cu Chi tunnels. Saigon – Phanthiet (B)

Breakfast at hotel. Enjoy a morning drive through typical southern Vietnamese countryside to Cu Chi to visit the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, an incredible underground tunnel network constructed by Vietnamese resistance fighters during the long struggle for independence. Then we will go back to Ho Chi Minh city and transfer to Phan Thiet (Muine). The scenic 200km drive north on Highway One passes through the bustling city of Bien Hoa before cutting through dense rubber plantations. Arrive in Phan Thiet and check into resort. Overnight in Phan Thiet.

Day 17: Phanthiet beach resort (B)

Full day free at leisure to enjoy the prime beach of Phan Thiet or just relax on the hotel/resort poolside. Optional golf course or beach activities can be arranged on the spot with hotel/resort. Overnight in Phan Thiet.

Day 18: Phanthiet beach resort (B)

Full day free at leisure to enjoy the prime beach of Phan Thiet or just relax on the hotel/resort poolside. Optional golf course or beach activities can be arranged on the spot with hotel/resort. Overnight in Phan Thiet.

Day 19: Phanthiet – Saigon (B)

Free at leisure until transfer back to Saigon (Checkout time is at 12h00). Overnight in Saigon.

Day 20: Departure (B)

Breakfast at hotel. Free time till transfer to the airport for your onward flight back home. End tour.

                          

Day 1: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh city (Saigon).

On arrival at Tan San Nhat Airport, you will be greeted by Lotussia Travel guide and transferred to hotel. Ho Chi Minh City is a center of commerce, finance, culture and tourism in Vietnam. This bustling metropolis is crowded with bikes and motorbikes, excited by numerous shopping area and sidewalk cafés. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city.

Day 2: Saigon full day free.

Breakfast at hotel. Full day free at leisure (no service will be provided by Lotussia Travel except hotel room and breakfast).

Day 3: Saigon – My Tho – Can Tho.

Today we depart hotel at 8h00 and make our way to My Tho. On arrival we embark on a boat navigating around the intricate small canals to observe the local lifestyle close-up and catch a view dotted by many islands. The exciting excursion will lead us to the famous Unicorn Island where we stroll around an orchard, taste many seasonal fruits and enjoy wonderful traditional music. We continue to Ben Tre Province to visit some fascinating local industries. We meet up with our vehicle for three hour drive to Can Tho, the capital city of the Mekong Delta. Overnight in Can Tho.

Day 4: Can Tho – Cai Rang – Saigon.

The impressive floating market of Rai Rang is a major part of our sightseeing tour in delta region. Upon leaving hotel we set off on a short drive and enjoy a boat trip to explore Cai Rang, whose the trading way is unique; each boat usually sells one particular item, whether it be pumpkins, pineapples, sugar canes. In order that the customer knows where to shop, they hang that item from the highest part of the boat. At the end of the river trip we drive back to Ho Chi Minh. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city.

Day 5: Saigon – Tay Ninh – Cu Chi Tunnels – Saigon.

Enjoy a morning drive through typical southern Vietnamese countryside to Tay Ninh Province in the west of Vietnam. At Tay Ninh visit the incredible Cao Dai Great Temple, with architecture that could have come straight from a Walt Disney fantasy and where all the major faiths of the world blend together in a unique religious cocktail. After lunch in a local restaurant visit the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, an incredible underground tunnel network constructed by Vietnamese resistance fighters during the long struggle for independence. Overnight in Saigon.

Day 6: Saigon – Dalat.

After breakfast, transfer to Dalat stop at Bao Loc to visit Dambri waterfall in the verdant jungle. After your arrival in Dalat, checkin hotel and stay free to relax or walk around Xuan Huong Lake or Hoa Binh night market. Night at hotel.

Day 7: Dalat city tour.

Established as a hill station at the beginning of the century, Dalat is reminiscent of an alpine town with its French chalets and pine forests. Enjoy a day tour of Dalat starting with the  former summer residence of Emperor Bao Dai, then the old Dalat Railway Station,  Xuan Huong Lake, Love’s valley, Flower garden, the Central Market and Pagodas. Overnight in Dalat.

Day 8: Dalat – Nhatrang.

After breakfast, we will take a 4-hour drive to Nhatrang with stop over for visiting Poklong Garai Towers. These towers were built in the early 14th century as Hindu temples during the Cham Empire and they are beautifully preserved. The towers were named after the King who invented a system of irrigation used in local villages. Check in the hotel and overnight in Nhatrang.

Day 9: Nhatrang full day free.

Breakfast at hotel. Full day free at leisure (no service will be provided by Lotussia Travel except hotel room and breakfast).

Day 10: Nhatrang – Hanoi (flight).

Transfer to Nhatrang airport for a short flight to Hanoi. Upon your arrival in Hanoi airport, you will be greeted by another Lotussia local guide and driver and transferred to your hotel in town. Enjoy a short cyclo excursion through the bustling old quarter streets named after the specific goods once offered for sales at these places. Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 11: Hanoi – Halong Bay (overnight on board).

Enjoy the journey through the rich farmlands of the Red River Delta and the scenery of rice fields, water buffalo and everyday Vietnamese village life. Arrive in Halong and board a traditional sailing junk. Whilst cruising the exquisite waters sample the regions fresh seafood. Visit the recently discovered Surprise Grotto with its great views, and on the next island see the yawning mouth of Bo Nau Cave. Take a kayaking trip to explore the Bay or enjoy a swim in the emerald waters of Halong Bay at any spot that you wish to visit. Watch the sunset over the bay whilst enjoying a delicious dinner.

Day 12: Halong Bay – Hanoi.

We continue our cruise in Halong bay. Breakfast will be served on board while the boat is going back to shore. Arrive at Ha long wharf about 11h00 and take our car for our journey back to Hanoi. Arrive in Hanoi at around 15h00. In the evening, attend to the water puppet show, one of famous Vietnamese traditional art. Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 13: Hanoi full day free.

Breakfast at hotel. Full day free at leisure (no service will be provided by Lotussia Travel except hotel room and breakfast).

Day 14: Departure from Hanoi.

Breakfast at hotel. Free time till transfer to the airport for your onward flight back home. End tour.