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Home > Destinations > Vietnam with a Difference (2012)
Set before the mesmerising backdrop of some the most breathtaking landscapes in South East Asia, Vietnam’s rich and diverse cultural heritage reflects a rare complexity of styles. This is a most compelling of destinations with its colourful local traditions and one of the most fascinating cultures of the continent.
Fly overnight from London Gatwick to Hanoi with Vietnam Airlines.
Welcome to the tree-lined streets of Hanoi with its iconic French colonial architecture and its network of markets presenting the myriad tastes and smells of Vietnam. Take a cyclo tour through the Old Quarter. Also visit the Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple. Stay 2 nights at the Sunway Hotel.
Visit the intimate and charming House of Ho Chi Minh including the mausoleum. The rest of the day is free to explore at your leisure. (B)
In the morning transfer to Halong Bay, considered the 8th wonder of the world. Upon arrival at Halong Bay, board the Dragon’s Pearl for an overnight cruise. Sail through the spectacular rocky mountain island scenery and floating villages, with lunch served on board. There will be opportunities to explore the natural wonders of the bay such as Surprise Cave and Titop Island. (B/L/D)
After breakfast, disembark and return to Hanoi, then fly to Danang where you will be transferred to the Hoi An Historic Hotel for 3 nights. (B)
Take a walking tour of Hoi An, revered for its cosmopolitan trading past and traffic-free historic streets with Phuc Kien Hall and the Japanese covered bridge. In the afternoon enjoy a relaxing guided bike ride through the charming surrounding countryside of Hoi An, experiencing the fascinating day-to-day life of its friendly locals at your own pace. (B/L)
Day at leisure to relax or further explore. Why not visit My Son? This is Vietnam’s most important Cham site, recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. (B)
Travel by road to Hue via Danang. The afternoon is spent sightseeing in Hue. Board a traditional vessel for a relaxing cruise along the Perfume River, passing the Imperial Citadel and the Thien Mu Pagoda. Stay 1 night at the Saigon Morin Hotel. (B/L)
Fly to Saigon. Visit the Reunification Palace which is now preserved as a museum (former Presidential Palace), including the famous underground communication bunkers and the War Remnants Museum. Next enjoy a fascinating visit to the bustling Chinatown area called Cholon (Big Market) where the aromas of the local cuisine will entice you. Stay 2 nights at the Duxton Hotel. (B/L)
Enjoy a fully-interactive, authentic Vietnamese cooking class; your teacher will accompany you to a local market to select your ingredients. Return to the kitchen, where you will be shown how to prepare and cook local Vietnamese cuisine, before sampling your dish. The afternoon is spent at leisure with an optional excursion available to the Cu Chi Tunnels, home to the Vietcong soldiers during the 1960s. (B/L)
Morning at leisure before your evening flight to London. (B)
Arrive at London Gatwick this morning.
