Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay (or Halong Bay) - a magnificent scenic spot located in Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam, is famous for its mountains, water, clouds, caves and grottoes. Ha Long Bay is the center of a larger zone including Bai Tu Long to the northeast and Cat Ba islands to the southwest. It was recognized as World Heritage Site by the UNESCO in 1994 and nominated as one of the World’s 7 Natural Wonders in 2009.

History & Tales:
Like many other Vietnamese towns’ names, Ha Long Bay (literally: ‘Bay of Descending Dragon’) has the origin from a legend. Once upon a time, Vietnam was invaded shortly after they started building the country. The Jade Emperor sent Mother Dragon and her Child Dragons down to help Vietnamese people. The dragons emitted from their mouths many pearls, which then turned into thousands of stone islands emerging in the sea like great walls stopping the invaders’ boats.

These boats crashed into the islands and broke into pieces. Vietnamese won the battle thanks to the tricky battle field. After the victory, the dragons decided to stay on the bay and the pearls still remained. The location that Mother Dragon landed is then called Ha Long Bay and where Child ones descended is Bai Tu Long Bay.

Weather

The annual temperature of Ha Long bay is 22,8oC, suitable for tourists to travel all year round. The best time to visit is from March to August, because during this time, tourists have the chance to shoot exotic photos with blue sky and sea as smooth as mill pond. It’s cloudy and rainy in autumn and chilly in winter. Especially, the period between August and October is the typhoon season.

Where to go

Visitors to Ha Long shouldn’t miss Bai Chay beach (Scorched Beach – close to the coast of Ha Long Bay), whose sand is dark. People often mistakenly think that this is due to the climate or lack of wind in this area. However, the weather here is quite pleasant and the temperature is around 22oC. From Bai Chay, you can hire a boat and go out to the bay, where you will find some of Southeast Asian most fascinating limestone islands.

The limestone formations are both bizarre and awesome. They are Thien Cung (Heavenly Palace Cave) - 4km from the wharf outside of Ha Long City, Dau Go (Wooden Stakes Cave) – 8km south of Bai Chay, Bo Nau (Pelican Cave) , Trinh Nu (Virgin Cave) – 15km south of Bai Chay, in the island range of Bo Hon, in the system comprised Sung Sot (Surprise Grotto), Dong Tien Lake and Luon Grotto, etc.

Besides Ha Long Bay, there are Mong Cai – the border city with China (visas must have been sourced in your home country), Cat Ba Island, Hai Phong City and Tuan Chau Island – a newly developed tourist resort. They are all worth visiting!

Want an independent tour and private tour, please email us at: FootStepVietnam@Gmail.Com to get more information and assistance

Phu Lang Pottery Village (Phu Lang)

Phu Lang has become a brand name like Bat Trang in terms of pottery and ceramics products. However, thanks to its distance from the urban centre, much of the pristine scenery as well as traditional production have moved forward for centuries without being over-commercialized. Through times, there are only a few families left who continued their tradition. The yard is packed with firewood and clay. Indoors, there are a large collection of pottery wares, from flower vases to tea pots. Bat Trang is special by its simplicity: from the decorative style to the natural brown color of clay. Villagers are very friendly: they will take you in and give you a quick tour to see how their every activities unfold.

Want an independent tour and private tour, please email us at: info@footsteptravel.com to get more information and assistance

Dong Ho Painting Village (Lang Tranh Dong Ho)

Dong Ho Village with its famous paintings has become an aesthetic symbol in Vietnam Culture. Located to the left side of Duong River, Dong Ho stood for centuries making their unique art work. From over 100 families in the 1950s, there are only several who still have their main income from making paintings but to everyone’s relief, the essence still remains and thrives.

Dong Ho paintings are places for artists to reflect their wishes for lucks and their perception of everyday life in the village. Common themes that are found consistently include animals (which has goodluck symbol on them), everyday life (such as Jealous Fight or A Market Day), and folk tales (Saint Giong or The Frog Teacher). The paper used for the painting is made from bark tree so that the texture can retain color for a long time. Each family develops their own mold for the painting. Each mold are then replicated and filled with a separate share of color. The paintings are made by stamping the mold into the paper, one at a time to add more and more color to the picture. Until the point when the artists are happy with their art work, they pain a layer of rice paste to keep the paint from fading and then expose the paintings to the sun for dry.

A visit to Dong Ho family can take 3-4 hours and any family is willing to take you for a tour to see how they create their art work. These home-based businesses also maintain their own gallery to display their art work.

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Dau Pagoda

Location
Dau Pagoda, located in Thuan Thanh district, Bac Ninh province, is considered the oldest Buddhist pagoda in Vietnam according to researchers. The pagoda is about 1 hour away from Hanoi Old Quarter, making it easy for a morning trip off the city noise.

History
In the past, the region where Dau Pagoda was built today was the capital of Giao Chi district, the political, economic and cultural center of Vietnam. About 1,800 years ago, the Indian monk named Khau Da La came to this area to do the missionary work and founded the first Buddhism center in Vietnam called Luy Lau. There were many pagodas, citadels and market built in the area at that time and Dau Pagoda was among them.

As Dau Pagoda was the biggest pagoda in the Buddhist center region, many monks from either India or China came there to do research and spread Buddhism to the local residents.

This ancient pagoda has undergone many restorations and expansion, with the largest construction undertaken under the Ly and Tran dynasty. Going through the fluctuation of history, although many structures in the region were destroyed, the pagoda still exists and preserves the traditional oriental architecture style especially the wood block aged about 1752 years old and two bronzes' Xa Loi bodies of Vu Khac Minh and Vu Khac Truong monk.

Architecture
The yard in front of the pagoda hosts a three stories tower name Hoa Phong. The tower originally had six stories but it was partly destroyed. Inside the tower, there are a number of valuable artifacts such as a large bell dating back in Canh Thinh Dynasty (1793), a big bronze gong casted in Ming Mang Dynasty (1817) and several statues of Gods in Buddhist legends.

Visitor Information
Since its inception, Dau Pagoda has hosted the annual Dau Pagoda Festival on April 8th in lunar calendar. This is also the biggest Buddhism festival of the northern region of Vietnam. In 2012, the festival will fall on April 28th.

The oriental architecture style and the antiques at the pagoda will absolutely impress any visitor. Moreover, it is also a great chance for those who want to discover and experience the traditional culture of Vietnam, and a must visit for Buddhists.

The best way to get to Chua Dau is to rent a car with a driver, who already knows the way and will take care of parking issues. You can also ride a motorbike, by following highway 5 and turning to Highway 1B. Chua Dau is about 35km from Hanoi downtown.

Want an independent tour and private tour, please email us at: info@footsteptravel.com to get more information and assistance

Bat Trang Pottery - But Thap Pagoda - Dong Ho Polk - Dong Ky Carpentry Village

Bat Trang Ceramic Village is on the left bank of Hong river and about 10 km from Hanoi in East (in Gia Lam District, Hanoi), there situated a pottery village, which is the most famous and long-standing pottery village in Vietnam for its name of Bat Trang. Up to present, Ba Trang Pottery Village has still been operating and developing ceaselessly. Dong Ky was at one time known as the ‘firecracker village’. With the firecracker industry now extinguished, the village survives by producing beautiful traditional furniture inlaid with mother-of-pearl. If you wish, you can have handcrafted furniture custom-made here and exported directly to your address abroad. Arranging the payment may prove a bit tricky if you are leaving Vietnam before the final product is produced and shipped. Dong Ky is 15km north-east of Hanoi.

8h30: Pick up at your hotel in Hanoi, driver to Bat Trang, the famous village is situated approx 15 outside of Hanoi, surrounded by fertile farmland. Watch the artisans forming, painting and glazing their products, which are then baked for several days in huge kilns.

12h00: Lunch at local restaurant.

13h30: Proceed to Dong Ky, the famous traditional wood carving village, Watch carpenters forming, carving and polishing wood products, making decorated pictures by snail, oyster shells. Taking photos & book some wood products by shipment. Return Hanoi. Finish the unforgettable trip at your hotel. 

Want an independent tour and private tour, please email us at: info@footsteptravel.com to get more information and assistance

Bat Trang Ceramic Village - Dong Ky Carpentry Village 1 Day Trip

Bat Trang Ceramic Village
On the left bank of Hong river and about 10 km from Hanoi in East (in Gia Lam District,Hanoi),there situated a pottery village,which is the most famous and long-standing pottery village in Vietnam for its name of Bat Trang. Up to present,Ba Trang Pottery Village has still been operating and developing ceaselessly. According to a legend,the village was first called as Bach Tho Phuong before its name was changed into Bat Trang Phuong. People in the village remember in their memory that the place of their origin Bo Bat Village (or called Bach Bat Village),Yen Mo District,Ninh Binh Province.

Dong Ky Carpentry Village
Dong Ky was at one time known as the ‘firecracker village’. Prior to 1995 (when the Government banned fire crackers) there was always a firecracker festival in Dong Ky. A competition for the loudest firecracker once resulted in the building of a gargantuan 16m long firecracker.
With the firecracker industry now extinguished,the village survives by producing beautiful traditional furniture inlaid with mother-of-pearl. If you wish,you can have handcrafted furniture custom-made here and exported directly to your address abroad. Arranging the payment may prove a bit tricky if you are leaving Vietnam before the final product is produced and shipped. Dong Ky is 15km north-east of Hanoi.

Want an independent tour and private tour, please email us at: info@footsteptravel.com to get more information and assistance

North East Vietnam on Bike 6 Days

Day 1: Hanoi - Thai Nguyen - Bac Can (Meals: Lunch, Dinner) 
Pick up at hotel. Transfer by private bus/ car to Thai Nguyen. Start bike ride to Bac Can. First day easy ride up and down hill, scenery of palm trees with village of Tay and Nung a long the way.
Overnight in Bac Can.

Day 2: Bac Can - Ba Be National Park (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Morning ride 20 km outside Bac Can and up hill, turn off highway 3 to a quiet road, great view small village of Tay and Thai on the opposite of the river. Lunch on the way.
Later afternoon we take our boat cruise on Ba Be lakes. The national park of Ba Be is centred on large Ba Be Lake. This is just one continuous water body although its name means "three lakes”. Visit Pac Ngoi village.
Overnight in Pac Ngoi village - Ba Be National park.

Day 3: Ba Be - Cao Bang (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
We ride through several passes of PiaOac mountain range to Nguyen Binh, then we have bus transfer to Cao Bang. Here the H'mong, Zao, Tho and Nung ethnic minority people all live in harmony.
Overnight in Cao Bang.

Day 4: Cao Bang - Ban Gioc Falls - Cao Bang (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) 
Good paved road all the way to waterfalls. Up and down Ma Phuc pass. Scenic beauty of Karst valley, numerous Tay and Nung villages. Picnic lunch and swim at Ban Gioc waterfalls - the border falls between Vietnam and China, which boasts the largest waterfall in Vietnam.
Later afternoon bus transfer back to Cao Bang.
Overnight in Cao Bang.

Day 5: Cao Bang - Lang Son - Mau Son (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Morning ride 67km to That Khe, passing 3 mountain passed and Dong Khe. Lunch break in That Khe. Afternoon we take bus transfer to Lang Son and onto Mau Son, nice sunset on arrival.
Overnight in Mau Son. 

Day 6: Mau Son - Ha Noi (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch)
At leisure time to discover villages around Mau Son. Later morning ride down hill to Lang Son. This border town had been all destroyed during the recent Sino - Vietnamese war, but was rebuilt to become an important trade center in north eastern region. Afternoon we take bus transfer to Hanoi. Farewell dinner. End of tour.

Want an independent tour and private tour, please email us at: FootStepVietnam@Gmail.Com to get more information and assistance

Legend Ancient Vietnam 7 Days

Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City Arrival
Upon your arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, you will be picked up and transferred to hotel in Ho Chi Minh city, still called Saigon by many locals. Rest of the day is free. Stay overnight at hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 2: Mighty Mekong Delta (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch)
Heading out of the town, we travel by roads to the Mekong Delta, Vietnam's largest rice bowl. On arrival in My Tho, we embark on a boat navigating around the intricate small canals in the delta region, which is a great way to observe the local lifestyle close-up and catch a view dotted by many islands. The exciting excursion will pass the lush green vegetation before arriving at the famous Unicorn Island. Here we have opportunities to stroll around an orchard, taste many seasonal fruits and enjoy wonderful traditional music. The next stop of our trip is Ben Tre Province to visit some fascinating local industries. After feasting on a huge lunch we return to Ho Chi Minh City, stopping off along the way to see the beautiful Vinh Trang Pagoda and the Cho Lon, Saigon’s Chinatown, which is crammed with sacred temples and mysterious, narrow lanes. Dinner on guest's account. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 3: Ho Chi Minh City - Hoi An Ancient Town (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch)
After breakfast at hotel, we board a short flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival, we will pick you up and transfer to Hoi An which was originally a Cham seaport from 16th century but has been influenced down the centuries by a myriad of traders from various cultures. We stop en route to visit the Cham Museum in Da Nang City, the Marble Mountain, whose peaks represent the five elements of the universe. Upon arrival, check into hotel. Have lunch at one of the famous restaurants of Hoi An before having a walking tour. The ancient architecture of Hoi An is a fascinating combination of Vietnamese traditional characters with Chinese and Japanese influence. There are plenty to see in this delightful town, some of which are Japanese Covered Bridges, the Pottery Museum, the 200 years old Tan Ky House, the Chua Ong Pagoda, the vibrant market. Today, we include these on a walking tour past many low tiled houses scattered along the small streets and assembly halls which reflect the town's multi-cultural past. Dinner on guest's account. Overnight in Hoi An.

Day 4: Hoi An - Hue (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch)
The next destination is Hue, the Old Royal City in Vietnam in 17th century. Upon leaving Hoi An, we drive north to Hue. The scenic road is hugging the coastline before crossing over the winding Hai Van pass. A view from the top of the pass is one of Vietnam’s most impressive panoramic scenes. We stop en route to visit the Lang Co beach before reaching Hue city. As Vietnam’s last feudal capital, the small and quiet city of Hue is widely known for magnificent architectures, pagodas and royal tombs laid in many small villages and surrounding hills. We spend this afternoon to visit Hue with the massive citadel, which contains the Imperial City and the Purple Forbidden City. This royal residence was all but destroyed during the 1968 Tet Offensive, however it is still fascinating to walk among the ruins. Dinner on guest's account. Overnight in Hue.

Day 5: Hue - Hanoi (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch)
Embark on boat on Perfume River to visit Thien Mu pagoda, the beautiful riverside pagoda which now becomes the symbol of Hue, and the elaborate royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc are not to be missed. After an impressive boat trip, we return to the town and enjoy a walk to the bustling Dong Ba Market that sells a wide variety of local goods and handicrafts. Along the way we pass by many fantastic eating spots, ideal places for visitors to sample some local delicacies before we aboard a short flight to Hanoi. Upon arrival, you will be greeted and transferred to hotel. Hanoi is a stylish and gracious city that retains an unique old world charm and some Asia‘s most striking colonial architecture. The many lakes and parks make for relaxing atmosphere. Have lunch at restaurant in Hanoi (optional) before visiting Literature temple, the first University in Vietnam in 16th century. If time permits then we enjoy a short cyclo excursion through the bustling 1000 Years Old Quarter streets named after the specific goods once offered for sale at these places. Then enjoy Water Puppet Unique show. Dinner on guest's account. Relax and stay overnight in Hanoi.

Day 6: Hanoi - Halong (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch)
08: 00am Transfer to Halong city for boat cruise on the Bay, stop on route to admire the landscape picture, you might take picture of buffalo boys. Embark on Junk, boat crew will greet you with special seafood lunch while boat cruise around the bay to visit Dinh Huong island, Ga Choi island, Dog island, Sail island, visit Sung Sot cave and a swim at Titov beach before finishes at harbor for transfer back to Hanoi. Dinner on guest's account. Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 7: Hanoi - Departure (Meals: Breakfast)
Free at leisure until time transfer to airport for flight back home.

Want an independent tour and private tour, please email us at: FootStepVietnam@Gmail.Com to get more information and assistance

Essential Of Vietnam 14 Days

Day 1 : Welcome to Hanoi Vietnam
Arrive at Noi Bai Airport. Meeting with guide and transfer to the hotel. The rest of this day will take time to explore Hanoi charm city by you. Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 2 : Hanoi City tour and night train to Sapa (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch)
AM: Getting started from your hotel at 8.30 AM, driving to visit Ho Chi Minh complex, including Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum – the final resting place of the Vietnamese great father or uncle Ho, President Ho Chi Minh’s stilt House – where he lived on and off from 1958 to 1969, the next place to move to is One Pillar Pagoda – a group of structures consisting of a pagoda and a tower built in the middle of a square lake. Leave One Pillar Pagoda and transfer to West Lake, visit Tran Quoc pagoda then having lunch.

PM: After lunch, you will be transferred to visit the Temple of literature. Continue to visit Museum of Ethnology – the most interesting museum in Hanoi with many different things relating the 54 Vietnamese ethnic groups. After that, you will visit Hoan Kiem lake (Restore Sword Lake). The last place of the tour is taking a walk for few minutes to visit The old quarter of Hanoi, finally enjoy Vietnam traditional water puppet show within one hour, having dinner then night train to Sapa. Overnight on train, taking night train from Hanoi to Sapa

Day 3: Sapa Arrival and easy trekking to Ta Van village (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
AM: The train arrives in Lao Cai at 6.30 a.m, our guide will welcome you by your name sign. We drive up to Sapa about 50 minutes on Car / Van, you will be taken to a small guesthouse for a morning showers then your breakfast at a local restaurant here. After breakfast & short morning beak, we start trekking from Sapa town. Our trekking route is from here to through the villages of Hmong and Zay people, chances to meet the locals working on the mountainsides or the rice terraces, kids ride on back of buffalo, to take photograph of  picturesque valleys & awesome scenery. We have picnic lunch on trekking route.

PM:  After lunch keep on trekking to Ta Van village of Zay people, where you will be warmly welcomed by the host, share the dinner with them, and stay at their traditional wooden house.
Homestay in Ta Van village,  Sapa

Day 4: Ta Van village, trek to Giang Ta Chai and Sapa town (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch)
AM: After breakfast, we are on the beaten track to GiangTaChai village of the Red Dzao minority via the paths between terraces and through bamboo forests. Visit silver waterfall and suspension Rattan Bridge, visit the people in the village and then cross Muong Hoa River up to the mountain to visit the last village of the trek - Supan village of the H'mong then having picnic lunch.

PM: Get back to Sapa by Car / Van. On the way back, enjoy visiting the ancient stone circle where stones are decorated with ancient carvings. Check in hotel. Free time to explore  Sapa town. Overnight in Sapa.

Day 5: Sapa town to Cat Cat village and night train to be back Hanoi (Meals: Breakfast)
AM: Breakfast, visit village of the black H'mong (Cat Cat village), walk around visiting people in the village and the hydroelectric power station built by the French in the old days.  Back to town for lunch
PM: Check out hotel, free to explore the town. At about 5 PM. drive to Lao Cai station for a night train back to Hanoi. Overnight on the train.

Day 6: Hanoi - Halong bay (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
AM: After breakfast at hotel, our driver and tour guide will pick you up and we start our 4-hours drive to Halong City stopping on the way for some refreshments and local hospitality. Upon arrival at Halong City, we transfer to our boat for a cruise in the stunning Halong Bay. Sea food lunch will be served on board.

PM: After lunch we will have opportunity to visit one of the most beautiful caves of Halong, Surprise Cave. From here we take our boats to the Ti Top Beach, where we can have a swim or climb up to the top of the island for outstanding panoramic view of the Bay. Stay overnight on board. Overnight on board in Halong bay

Day 7: Halong - Hanoi - Flight to Hue (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch)
AM: Following breakfast this morning, we kayak around Luon Cave before returning to Halong Bay harbor for lunch,

PM: After lunch, we meet with our vehicle for the 3hour drive back to Hanoi Noi Bai airport for flying to Hue city. Overnight in Hue.

Day 8: Hue city tour (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch)
AM: Pick you up at 8.00am from the hotel in Hue central, then transfer to the pier for a motor dragon boat ride along Perfume river, the first impression is a green and peaceful on both side of the river. First stop at Thien Mu pagoda, the magnificent architecture was found in 17th century. Transfer back to Hue city centre to visit the Imperial Citadel, Flag Tower, Noon Gate, Nine Dynasty Urns, Nine Holy Cannons, Thai Hoa Palace. Enjoy lunch at Vietnamese restaurant for special dishes in Hue Vietnam.

PM: After lunch, visit King’s Tombs of Tu Duc, and handicraft villages such as conical hat making, bronze-casting, incense-making village and last visit at Ming Mang Tomb. Return to hotel at 5.PM. Overnight in Hue.

Day 9: Hue – Lang Co beach – My Son – Hoi An (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch)
AM: Depart to Hoian. Relax at Lang Co Beach. Stop on Hai Van Mountain Pass of 30 km length, and then having a lunch in Danang.

PM:  Drive to visit My Son, a ancient religion center of the Cham people in the past, 40 km to the South West of Hoi An town, another World's Cultural Heritage. Transfer to Hoian.
Dinner and overnight in Hoian.

Day 10: Hoi An (Meals: Breakfast, Dinner)
AM: Breakfast at hotel then we leave your hotel at 8.30, you will walk with your tour guide to visit around Hoi An: the old Tan Ky House, Covered Bridge, Phuc Kien Assembly Hall… you will also get a chance to enjoy the musical show at 10.00 a.m, and a visit to some of the handicrafts workshop. Shop for tailored made silk products or spend your time at the wonderful beach (4km away). Dinner at the restaurant.Overnight in Hoian.

Day 11: Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City Arrival and city tour (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch)
AM: We take an early flight this morning at 7:45 am, arriving to Saigon at 8:40 am, transfer downtown and check-in at our hotel before our city tour of bustling Saigon started.

PM: Visit the Binh Tay Market in Cho Lon; stopover at Thien Hau, a 150 year old Chinese Temple; then to a Lacquer wares workshop and the Jade Emperor pagoda. In the afternoon visit the War Remnants Museum, the Notre Dame Cathedral and the historic Central Post Office. We’ll drop you off at your hotel around 5:30 pm. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City - Cao Dai temple - Cu Chi tunnel (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch)
AM: Getting started at 08 am from your hotel, transferring to Tay Ninh, near the Cambodian border, is home to the unique Cao Dai sect, whose patron saints include Joan of Arc, Victor Hugo and Winston Churchill to name a few. The religion is an odd mix of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism and Christianity. The trip to Tay Ninh is combined with a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels. At its height the tunnel system stretched from Saigon to the Cambodian border and was three levels deep.

PM: Today the remaining tunnels have become a major tourist attr giving the visitor a unique experience and a feel of what underground life in the war must have been like. Our team will drop you off in Ho Chi Minh City at 5.00 PM. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 13: Ho Chi Minh city - Mekong delta (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch)
AM: 08h00 depart for a fascinating drive through rural Vietnam to Cai Be. As you leave the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh City the scenery changes for the lush rice paddies. This area is referred to locally as the 'rice bowl of Vietnam'. On arrival disembark on your private boat for a trip to Cai Be floating market. See the larger boats in the market, each selling mostly one product, this is truly a different experience and one you will remember. Continuing downriver towards Vinh Long, the journey takes one hour and along the way will stop to visit some of the picturesque islands that lie in the centre of the Mekong River.

Stop at Binh Hoa Phuoc Island and see the delta's second most famous produce after rice, tropical fruits. Stroll through the orchids on the islands, which grow such fruits as Longan, Sapodilla, and Durian whilst also sampling these exotic fruits.
Enjoy lunch on Binh Hoa Phuoc Island and sample the local delicacy Elephant Ear Fish.

PM: Cruise the back waters using the local means of transport, hand paddle boats and on 'Monkey Bridges', small rickety structures that look fairly easy to walk on but are harder than you think. Take a look also at the local brick kilns and brick production which is popular in this area where more and more houses are now made of brick.
Late afternoon departure from Vinh Long for the drive back to Ho Chi Minh City where you will arrive around 1700. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 14 : Saigon departure (Meals: Breakfast)
Car / Van pick you up from Hotel and transfer to Tan San Nhat airport for Ho Chi Minh City departure to the next destination or coming back home.

Tour Includes:
    Private air-conditioned vehicle with an experienced safe driver,
    English speaking tour guide,
    Entrance fee (s),
    Accommodation with breakfast,
    Boat trip in Halong, Hue and Mekong
    Domestic flight tickets,
    Train tickets,
    All meals as mentioned in itinerary and complimentary water.

Tour Excludes:
    International flight to/from Vietnam,
    Single supplement charge,
    Vietnamese entry visa fee,
    Travel insurance,
    Drinks & other meals not mentioned in the program,
    Personal expenses and Tips for driver & tour guide.

Viet Nam Hightlights 23 Days

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival
Welcome to Hanoi! You will be met at the airport and transferred to hotel in Hanoi.
Renowned as the “Paris of the East”, Hanoi is one of Asia’s most delightful cities. Rich in culture and history this diverse city draws its influences from both French and Chinese culture. Check in hotel & free at leisure.
Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 2: Hanoi City tour (B/L) SIC TOUR
We commence our exploration of Hanoi by visiting the Ho Chi Minh complex, starting at the President’s Mausoleum. We continue to his humble “house on stilts”, see the French colonial Presidential Palace and the 11th century One-Pillar Pagoda. Enjoy lunch at local restaurant.
Afternoon we take a short dirve to visit the Temple of Literature, the first Vietnam University dating to 1070. Proceed to Ethnology museum and take a walking tour through the Hanoi’s Old Quarter, passing the Opera House, the Saint Joseph Cathedral and Hoan Kiem Lake. Tour ends at your hotel at approx 16:30. Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 3: Hanoi – Halong Bay (B/L/D) SIC TOUR
06:30:   Enjoy breakfast at hotel.
08:00    Depart for Halong by our shuttle bus
12.00    Arrival Halong city, embark our boat.
12.30    The boat starts running. Lunch is served as your cruise begins toward Bai Tu Long Bay. Pass by the area where the scenes of the famous film “Indochina” were shot. See the famous islets along the way such as Teapot islet, Marker Islet, Fire islet, Dove Islet, Men’s Head Islet. Continue cruising towards Ha Long Bay
See famous islets such as Men’s head Islet, Tortoise Islet, Heaven Gate area, explore the Cave of Surprise.
Swim at the Titov beach or Soi Sim beach or another beach.
18.00   Cruise to Ho Dong Tien or Trong Cave for anchorage (weather permitting)
19.00   Dinner is served in the restaurant. Free at leisure. Overnight on the boat.
    
Day 4: Halong Bay – Hanoi (B/L) SIC TOUR
7.00     Wake up
7.30     Having breakfast
8.00     Continue cruising, back to the pier. Pass by Hoa Cuong Island, Fingers Island, Dog Island, Ga Choi Island. Lunch is served in the restaurant as your cruise continues.
11.45   Parking at the wharf
12.00   Checking out. Enjoy lunch at local restaurant.
13:00   Transfer back to Hanoi by our shuttle bus. Arrive Hanoi at approx 16:00, free for shopping in Hanoi 36 Old Quarter streets. Check in again hotel and Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 5: Perfume Pagoda full day (B/L)  SIC TOUR
Perfume Pagoda is 75 km south from Ha Noi. This is the biggest pagoda complex in Vietnam, hosting the Perfume Festival (a Buddhist event that lasts from the first to the third month of the lunar calendar). All year round, you can enjoy marvelous scenery along the Yen River as well as the historical grandeur of the pagoda complex. On the way, if you fancy an invigorating work-out, you can row the boat yourself.

07:45 – 08:15: Pick up at your hotel. Arrive at Duc wharf. Walk to Yen wharf to get on local boat and enjoy beautiful landscape with streams and paddy fields. Short hiking-up to the main cave on the mountain summit (2.5km) to cast your view over the magnificient mountainous beauty. Return to Thien Tru quay for lunch in the local restaurant.
In the afternoon, visit Thien Tru pagoda to know the featured relegion architecture of Viet Nam. Boating back to Duc wharf. Return by bus to Ha Noi. See you off at your hotels. Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 6: Hoalu – Tamcoc full day (B/L)  SIC TOUR
Pick you up at hotel at 07:45 a.m to depart to Hoalu – Tamcoc. These famous sites are located in the Ninh Binh province, 95 km south of Hanoi. Tam Coc is known as Halong Bay on the rice fields. Upon arrival, we will take a sampan ride through  a karst landscape to visit Tam Coc grottos. The sampan rower will drive the boat through shallow rice paddies and three splendid long grottos. Leave the sampans and visit a small temple, built in 13th century, called Thai Vy. Next stop is Hoa Lu, which was the capital of the Dinh and Early Le dynasties in Vietnam in the 10th and 11th century. The sanctuaries were built in the 17th century. We will see the stone pedestal of a royal throne, bronze bells and statues of the Emperors. Head back to Hanoi at 18:00.
Day 7: Lao Cai – Sapa (B/L/D) SIC TOUR
Arrive at Lao Cai railway station early in the morning then transfer to Sapa (1 hour), home to numerous colorful hill tribes (Black H'mong, Flower H'mong, Red Dao) and to Vietnam’s highest peak: Mount Fansipan.
Breakfast at local restaurant with Vietnamese Pho noodles then walking tour to visit local market. 
Check-in hotel at noon.
We embark on a lovely walking tour to the hill tribe village of Cat Cat, home of the H'Mong hill tribe minority people. As we walk to the villages nestled in the valley below Sapa we will meet some of the local minority people on their way to and from Sapa. Here we have the opportunity to share cultural experiences with families that live in the area. Walk back to Sapa town and visit its local market. Dinner at restaurant. Overnight in Sapa.

Day 8: Sapa – Lao Cai – Night train back Hanoi (B/L/D) SIC TOUR
After breakfast, spend a full day of visit in the surroundings of Sapa: You will commence your journey from Sapa by bus to Lao Chai village, a Black Hmong ethnic minority village.
You will then be able to walk from Lao Chai to Tavan village where the Giay ethnic minority hill tribe lives. Here you will be able to rest and enjoy a picnic lunch on spot.
After lunch, you walk to a road where the bus is ready for your journey back to Sapa.
Transfer to Lao Cai and take the night train back to Hanoi. Dinner at restaurant in Sapa.
Overnight on the train.

Day 9:  Hanoi – Flight to Hue (B)
After breakfast at hotel, you are free at leisure to visit more and do shopping in Hanoi till transfering to the airport for short flight to Hue.
Upon arrival Hue, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel and free at leisure.
Check in hotel and overnight in Hue.

Day 10: Discover Hue Imperial City (B/L) – SIC TOUR
Hue City – Ancient Capital, Hue served as an imperial capital to the Nguyen Lords, a feudal dynasty which reigned from the 17th to 19th century. With splendid emperors’ tombs, ancient pagodas and the remains of the Citadel, the city retains its Royal charm.
DEPART at 8:30am – COME BACK at: 4:30pm
Places to visit in the morning:
1.The Citadel                                      
2.Thien Mu pagoda                                      
3.Phu Mong Garden house in Kim Long   
Noon: stop of break and enjoy lunch

Places to visit in the afternoon:
4.Minh Mang tomb                    
5.Khai Dinh tomb                       
6.Tu Duc tomb                       
7.Conical hat  making and        
Incense making village
Then get on the boat for a sight-seeing along the Perfume River. And stop to visit fishing village and sampan on the way back. Don't  miss the sunset on the Perfume River. Overnight in Hue.

Day 11: Hue – Danang – Hoi An by Open Bus (B) 08:00 a.m – 12:00 a.m
After breakfast at hotel, we drive to Hoi An Ancient Town – a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
This afternoon, you are free to visit Hoi An: Japanese Bridge, Phuc Kien Pagoda, Phung Hung Old House and Quang Dong Assembly. Check in hotel and overnight in Hoian.

Day 12: Hoian (B)
Whole day free and easy to visit Hoian Ancient town or relax on the pristine beach. Overnight in Hoian.

Day 13: Hoi An – Danang airport – Flight to Nhatrang (B)
Free at leisure in Hoian till driving to Da Nang airport and take a flight to Nhatrang, the capital of Khanh Hoa Province and is home to one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Vietnam. The clear and turquoise water around Nha Trang is ideal for fishing, snorkeling and scuba diving.
 Arrive Nha Trang, check in hotel and relax on Nha Trang’s sandy beaches: swim, sunbathe and take in the delights of this beautiful holiday resort. Overnight in Nha Trang.

Day 14: Nhatrang Islands Tour (B/L) – SIC Tour
Our guide will pick you up at your hotel at 08.00 A.M and transfer to the Pier. Morning boat trip to Mun island (have snorkeling equipment), Mot Island, have lunch and enjoy floating minibar on the water and Tam Island where have beach resort, you can enjoy sunbathing, swimming or talk to local villagers. Proceed to visit the Fishing Village (caged fish breeding) and visit local village.
Back to the Pier at 16:30 and drive by bus to your hotel. Overnight in Nha Trang.

Day 15: Nhatrang – Open Bus to Dalat (B) 06:00 a.m – 11:00 a.m
Check out hotel at 06:00 a.m and then transfer by Open bus to Da Lat. Arrive Dalat at approx 11:00 a.m, check in hotel. Free at leisure. Overnight in Da Lat.

Day 16: Da Lat City Tour – Full Day (B/L)
Breakfast at hotel. In the morning our sightseeing in Da Lat includes Xuan Huong Lake, which is located at the center of Da Lat, Xuan Huong was created when the Cam Ly River was dammed by the French in 1919. 
Continue to visit Love Valley, the good points of this place are the beautiful pine hills, which are suitable for picnic on holidays in an area of 242 hectares. Visit Crazy House, it does not comply with any convention about house building, has unexpected twists and turns, roofs and rooms, it looks like a fairy tale castle. We visit to Lam Ty Ni pagoda, one of the unlikeliest and most delightful attractions of a stay in Da Lat. The pagoda is home to Vien Thuc, the so-called "mad monk" of Da Lat, who is also a poet, gardener, builder and artist. The last visit is Bao Dai Summer Palace, with 25 room villa constructed in 1933. Tour ends at approx 16:30.
Lunch and dinner at local restaurant. Overnight in Dalat.

Day 17: Dalat – Open bus to Saigon (B) 11:00 a.m – 17:00 p.m
After breakfast at hotel, you are free at in Nhatrang till transfering to the airport for short flight to Saigon, the Metropolis of the South.
Arrive Saigon, you will be greeted by our car then transfer to down town. Check in hotel and free at own leisure. Overnight in Saigon.

Day 18: Saigon City Tour (B) – SIC Tour
Start the City tour at 08:00 a.m to visit the main attractions of Ho Chi Minh city, the largest and busiest city of the country. We come to see the Reunification Palace (also known as Independence Palace). It is one of the most fascinating sights in Saigon and was once the symbol of the South Vietnamese government. Proceed to visit Notre Dame Cathedral, Old Post Office, Jade Emperor Pagoda and War Remnants  Museum.
In the afternoon, we will go to China-town to see the bustling and busy Cho Lon market. This market place has an amazing array of local and imported goods and food products at bargainable prices. On the way back, we will visit the Thien Hau Temple. Overnight in Saigon.

Day 19:  Saigon – My Tho – Ben Tre – Can Tho (B/L) – SIC Tour
Pick up at hotel and departure for Mekong delta trip. This trip provides a look at a wide variety of the life and scenery of the Delta. On the way you can see green rice paddy fields stretching towards
the horizon. After 70km driving, we arrive in My Tho, a private boat trip takes us to Ben Tre. Walking on land and exploring local life and then we’ll visit the local coconut-candy workshop.
After lunch, we’ll enjoy the local tropical fruits, folk music  and see how they look after their honey bee farm. Afternoon, take the bus again for a 2 hour drive to Can Tho. Overnight in Can Tho – the capital city of the Mekong delta.

Day 20: Can Tho – Floating Market – Saigon (B) – SIC Tour
After breakfast, we board a private boat for exploring the Can Tho area. The local village people of this region are well-known for their businesses on the river. Our boat will then continue to Cai Rang floating market and up quiet canals. We will visit the rice-husking mill, and then we will walk through a village to see local people making rice noodles and rice paper. Back our hotel for fresh up before driving back Saigon. Arrive Saigon, check in again hotel and Overnight in Saigon.

Day 21: Cuchi Tunnel (B) – SIC Tour
Early morning depart to Cu Chi under guerrilla underground Tunnels. The Tunnels of Cu Chi were built over a period of 25 years, which began some time in the later 1940s.   The tunnel network of Cu Chi became legendary during the 1960s for its role in facilitating Viet Cong control of a large rural area only 30km to 40km from Ho Chi Minh City. The tunnel network, parts of which were several storeys deep, including innumerable trap doors, specially constructed living areas, storage facilities, weapons factories, fileld hospitals, command centres and kitchens. Head back to Saigon at 14:30.
Afternoon will be free and easy to visit and do shopping at Ben Thanh market. Overnight in Saigon.

Day 22: Saigon – Free and easy (B)
Whole day free at leisure to visit and do shopping in Saigon. Overnight in Saigon.

Day 23: Saigon – Flight departure (B)
Whole day free at leisure to visit and do shopping in Saigon till transfering to the airport for flight back home. End of trip!

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 Follow Child’s policy as below   
All SIC Tours, join in group tours
Child’s policy:
•    Child under 6 years old sharing room with two adults without extra bed: FOC (No meal is provided)
•     Child 6-under 12 years old sharing room with two (2) adults without extra bed: 50% of package cost
•    Child 6-under 12 years old sharing room with two (2) adults with extra bed: 75% of package cost
•     Child under 12 years old sharing room with one (1) adult: 100% of package cost
•    Child 12 years old and above: 100% of adult cost.

PRICE INCLUSIONS
•    18-night hotel accommodation at all 3* hotels in each cities, good location with daily breakfast
•    02-night on Deluxe Air-conditioned train Hanoi – Sapa – Hanoi (04 persons in a cabin)
•    All tour transportation within the journey as above mentioned itinerary
•    Pick-up & drop-off at airports by private 4 seat car (without guide)
•    Boat trips in Halong, Hue, Nhatrang and Mekong Delta
•    All flight tickets: Hanoi to Hue and Danang to Nhatrang (Included airport tax)
•    All entrance and sightseeing fees, except Hue City Tour, Saigon City Tour and Cuchi Tunnels
•    Meals as indicated in the itinerary
•    Local English speaking guides on tours
•    Open bus tickets Hue to Hoian, Nhatrang to Dalat and Dalat to Saigon (Soft seats with A/C)

PRICE EXCLUSIONS
•    International airfare and airport tax in & out Vietnam
•    Drinks and other meals do not indicate in the program
•    Visa to Vietnam, if any
•    Early check-in and late check-out at all hotels
•    Travel insurance
•    Personal expenses (laundry, telephone, shopping...)
•    Tipping/ Gratuities
•    Single Supplement
•    Any additional expenses caused by reasons beyond our control such as natural calamities (typhoon, floods), flight delays, rescheduling or cancellations, any accidents, medical evacuations, riots, strikes etc.

Discover South Viet Nam 5 Days

Day 1: Ho Chi Minh city – Arrival
You are welcomed by our guide at Tan Son Nhat airport and then be transferred to your hotel in the center of city. Half day city tour visit Reunification Palace, War Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral with the passing Ben Thanh market. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 2: Ho Chi Minh city – Mekong Delta – Can Tho (B/L)
This Mekong Delta trip provides you a look at varieties of the life and scenery on the Mekong River itself as well as on the bank of the river. Start the trip by a drive to Vinh Long, which on the way is green/yellow rice paddy fields stretching towards the horizon. On arrival, you will embark on a boat for cruising on the Mekong River with a passing floating Cai Be market. Along the river we have more exploring of the local life, farmer and handicraft productions. We then access to An Binh Islet for enjoying the very peaceful atmosphere of Vietnam country side. You are invited to enjoy lunch at local House while listening to the folk songs of Nam Bo performed by the “local family artists”. In the afternoon we continue driving toward Can Tho for overnight.

Day 3: Can Tho – Ho Chi Minh City (B/L) 

It is advised to start the boat trip before 07:30am otherwise you may not see the most busiest time of the floating market.
The watery world of the Mekong Delta is home to many bustling floating markets. This day we take a boat trip exploring the vibrant floating market of Cai Rang, which the trading way is unique; each boat usually sells one particular item, whether it be pumpkins, pineapples, sugar canes. After an impressive boat trip, disembark at Ninh Kieu quay then visit an ancient house in Binh Thuy 10 km from Cantho city and Cantho museum. Lunch at local restaurant on the way back to Sai Gon via My Tho. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 4: Ho Chi Minh City – Tay Ninh – Cu Chi (B/L)
Drive a long way on the country side of Vietnam to Tay Ninh, 100 km from Ho Chi Minh city. On arrival to the head quarter of Cao Dai religious, you will have a chance to witness the daily ceremony at Cao Dai Holy See, and meet followers come to attend the ceremony wearing colored robes, a symbol of the curious combination of the Confucianism, Taoism, Christianity and Buddhism. Having lunch at a local
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restaurant then continue the trip to Cu Chi, visit the incredible underground tunnel network constructed by Vietnamese fighters during the long struggle for independence. Overnight at Ho Chi Minh City

Day 5: Ho Chi Minh City – Departure (B)
Free time for shopping or relax until time to airport for departure home or next destinations. Finish tour

Inclusive:
- Hotel accommodation as specific or similar, base on twin sharing
- Private 04 seat car in Saigon
- Private boat in Mekong delta
- All entrance fees
- English or French speaking guide. Other languages can be arranged upon request
- All meals as per program (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D = dinner)

Exclusive:
- Drinks, except otherwise mentioned
- International flight and international airport tax on departure
- Insurance, Personal expenses & Tips

IMPORTANT NOTES
- Our price of the tour is not included travel insurance. We recommend you purchase health/travel insurance for the trip to our countries. We can help you to buy travel Insurance, please contact us for more detail.
- There is no compulsory to get any vaccine to visit our countries. But we encourage you to have popular Vaccine such as Diphtheria, Tetanus, Typhoid, Polio. You may consult your doctor before traveling.
- Please make sure your passport has at least 6 months validity from the entry date, and whether you need an entry visa to Vietnam before starting your trip. Please consult with us if you are not sure.

 Want an independent tour and private tour, please email us at: FootStepVietnam@Gmail.Com to get more information and assistance

Sapa trek & Topas Eco Lodge 4 Days

Night 1: Night train to Lao Cai

8.00pm: Transfer from your hotel to Hanoi Railway Station for the night train to Lao Cai. Overnight in AC soft sleeper wooden cabin.

Day 1: Lao Cai – Sapa ( B / L / D ) 4 – 5 hour trek and home stay
Arrive in Lao Cai around 6.00 am. Welcome by our tour guide in Lao Cai and transferred to Sapa. Breakfast in local restaurant. After breakfast we can pack up for the trek or stroll in Sapa market walk around the town. We will begin our trek at 10 am. We will trek on small trails down hill to Muong Hoa Valley and visit LaoChai village of Black H’mong and Ta Van village of the Dzay minority groups. Picnic lunch on the way. We will reach Tavan, a village of Dzay minority around 4.30 pm. Dinner and overnight homestay in a local house.

Day 2: Trek and home stay ( B / L / D ) 5 hour trek and homestay
Breakfast at the home stay. We leave Ta Van Village at 8.30 am for Giang Ta Chai, a village of Red Dzao minority. Today we trek through thick bamboo forest and enjoy great view of rice terraces. Around noon we reach Giang Ta Chai, visit to the village and have picnic lunch by Muong Hoa Rive. In the afternoon we cross the river and head to Ban Ho, a village of Tay minority group. We will have dinner and overnight in a traditional house-on-stilt of the Tay in Ban Ho village.

Day 3: Topas Eco Lodge ( B / L / _ )
After breakfast at the home stay we leave Ban Ho and walk 3 km on good trails to our bus. Short transfer to Topas Eco Lodge. Upon arrival in Topas Eco Lodge we check in hotel and relax in the eco lodge. Lunch in the eco lodge. Dinner on guests account. Overnight in Topas Eco lodge.

Day 4: Back to Hanoi ( B )
Breakfast in Topas Eco Lodge. Relax in the eco lodge and take the car at 11.30 am to Sapa Town. Leave luggage at my office then free to explore the town. We can visit Ham Rong Park or shop in Sapa market. In the late afternoon we take a bus ride to Lao Cai for night train back to Hanoi. Overnight in an air-conditioned soft sleeper wooden cabin

Day 5: Arrive in Hanoi. Trip completes
Arrive in Hanoi around 5.00 am. Trip completes at the train station

Want an independent tour and private tour, please email us at: FootStepVietnam@Gmail.Com to get more information and assistance

Vietnam And Cambodia Gourmet 14 Days

Day 1:Arrival Ha Noi
Arrive at Hanoi Airport and transfer to your hotel. Welcome drink and light dinner will be served for your late arrival. (D)
(OVERNIGHT IN HANOI)

Day 2:Hanoi's Specialties
Hanoi,the present day capital of Vietnam is a city of tree-lined boulevards and lakes with a unique blend of French colonial buildings and Chinese inspired Vietnamese architecture. A full day to explore this fascinating city takes in the One Pillar Pagoda,the Fine Arts Museum,the Temple of Literature,the Lake of the Restored Sword and the bustling 'Old Quarter',with its 36 ancient streets. Lunch at “Cha Ca La Vong” serving seasoned fish. In the evening a visit to a performance of the famous water puppets is followed by dinner at the Le Tonkin restaurant,which specializes in superbly prepared northern Vietnamese cuisine. Northern Vietnamese food has a strong Chinese influence with stir-fried dishes and less spicy food popular. Specialties of Hanoi include “Cha Ca” Hanoi and the ubiquitous noodle and meat soup known as “Pho” which is usually eaten at pavement food stalls for breakfast. (B,L,D).
(OVERNIGHT IN HANOI)

Day 3:Hanoi - Ha Long bay
Ha Long Bay - Fresh Seafood
An early start for the 160km drive to Halong Bay,a UNESCO World Heritage Site,where 3,000 rocky islands emerge from the emerald green waters. A fresh seafood lunch is served on board. In the evening a barbecue of local specialties is served on the terrace of the colonial Ha Long Bay Hotel. (B,L,D)
(OVERNIGHT IN HA LONG CITY)

Day 4:Hue - Spicy Corner
Return to Hanoi by road with a picnic lunch before transferring direct to Hanoi Airport for the early afternoon flight to Hue. (Flight time varies depending on the day of week). On arrival in Hue transfer to the hotel. In the evening,a cyclo ride to Tinh Gia Vien restaurant for dinner. Food in Hue is spicy with considerable use of chili reflecting its imperial roots is often presented in carefully displayed small servings,a kind of Oriental nouvelle cuisine. (B,L,D)
(OVERNIGHT IN HUE)

Day 5:Cooking Class - Boat trip and Royal Banquet
In the morning,we follow Mrs. Cuc,the owner of Y Thao Garden House to Dong Ba central market,where she gives an instruction on how to choose food for our cooking lesson at 9:30 at Y Thao Garden House. Lunch is the food we prepare. In the afternoon,travel by Dragon Boat on the romantically named Perfume River to Thien Mu pagoda standing on the riverbank with its seven-storey tower. Transfer by car to the Imperial Citadel from which the Nguyen emperors once ruled Vietnam. Royal banquet at the Huong Giang Hotel on the banks of the Perfume River. (B,L,D)
(OVERNIGHT IN HUE)

Day 6:Hue - Da Nang - Hoi An
In the morning,drive to visit Tu Duc Mausoleum with its traditional Vietnamese architecture. Leave Hue mid-morning for a scenic journey on Highway One. The road passes by vivid green fields of rice and the wonderfully photogenic fishing village of Lang Co with its blue lagoon and deserted sandy beaches before climbing over the dramatic Pass of Mountain Clouds (Hai Van Pass). Lang Co is well known for its fresh seafood restaurants and a lunch of locally caught shrimps and squid on the edge of the lagoon is a must. Once over the mountain pass,the road drops down to Danang. Stop off at Danang to visit the famous Non Nuoc Beach (China Beach),once a 'rest and recreation' resort for American servicemen,and pass by the sacred Marble Mountains whose caves contain dozens of Buddhist shrines. Arrive at the former trading port of Hoi An around five in the afternoon. Transfer to hotel and stroll down to the picturesque river front for a refreshing drink before dinner at Tam Tam Restaurant,located in a meticulously restored colonial property and appropriately run by a French man. (B,L,D).
(OVERNIGHT IN HOI AN)

Day 7:Hoian – A Fusion Cuisine
During the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries Hoi An was a major Asian trading centre and much remains as it was then. A morning walking tour of the ancient town centre takes in former merchants' houses,the 400 year-old Japanese Covered Bridge and the colorful market. For lunch try the local specialty,“cao lau”,a delicious soup made with noodles,pork and greens. This is an original dish found only in Hoi An and made using the water from the town's ancient well (duly boiled). The afternoon is free to cycle through rice paddies to the nearby beach,shop for souvenirs among the antique shops and art galleries or just sit at a pavement café and soak in the atmosphere of this friendly little town. For a dinner visit a Hoi An institution,the White Lantern Restaurant,whose the owner,Ms Vy,dishes up sumptuous five-course meals featuring Hoi An's unique cuisine. Expect to sample more Hoi An delicacies like “hoanh thanh” and “banh vac”. (B,L,D).
(OVERNIGHT IN HOI AN)

Day 8:Hoian
Free day to make your own exploration of this charming town. Today,you will have chance to go shopping and enjoy the traditional food. (B,L,D)
(OVERNIGHT IN HOIAN)

Day 9:Ho Chi Minh City
Transfer to Danang Airport after breakfast for the early flight to Saigon,or Ho Chi Minh City as it is now officially known. Transfer to hotel on arrival. After a lunch of “pho” on Pasteur Street,a half day city tour includes the Unification Palace,Notre Dame Cathedral,the Old Saigon Post Office and Cholon,the city's lively Chinatown. Dinner at one of Saigon's best-known restaurants,Vietnam House. The cuisine of the south uses many herbs and spices and has been influenced by Cambodia,Thailand and India among others. Curries using coconut milk are an example of this influence. The south also has a wide selection of tropical fruits and vegetables that are not readily available in the cooler north. (B,L,D).
(OVERNIGHT IN HO CHI MINH CITY)

Day 10:Ho Chi Minh – Mecong Delta                                           
Full day trip to the watery world of My Tho in the Mekong Delta,just a couple of hours by road from the hustle and bustle of Saigon. Take a boat trip along the narrow waterways overhung with dense vegetation and try exotic fruits in one of the many orchards. Try the local specialty of Elephant's Ear Fish at a riverside restaurant. A fascinating glimpse into the daily life of the people who work,rest and play on the mighty Mekong and its numerous tributaries. Finally to the Indochina Restaurant in Saigon,where we can enjoy the chef's cooking demonstration in the restaurant's airy,open-plan kitchen. Dinner at this beautifully restored colonial villa is the last supper our culinary tour through Vietnam. (B,L,D).
(OVERNIGHT IN HO CHI MINH CITY)

Day 11:Angkor Complex
After breakfast,transfer to airport for the flight to Siem Reap. Upon arrival,check in to hotel. Begin exploration of the ancient city by entering Angkor Thom via the South Gate. Continue the journey by viewing the ruins at Bayon,Baphoun,the Royal Palace,Phimeanakas,the Elephant Terraces,the Leper King Terrace,Ta Keo,Chau Say Tevada,and Thommanon. In the afternoon,visit epic Angkor Wat. (B). (OVERNIGHT IN SIEM REAP)

Day 12: Angkor Complex
After breakfast,proceed to the graceful Khmer Temple of Shiva,built in the 11th century. On the way back,stop at the three-tiered temple-hill of Pre Rup. There,view the Banteay Kdei with its rarely seen sculpted female deities,the Lake of Srah Srang,and the impressive Ta Prohm Temple,which is dramatically enveloped by jungle. End the day with a spectacular sunset viewed from the mountain temple of Phnom Bakheng. (B)
(OVERNIGHT AT HOTEL IN SIEM REAP)

Day 13:Siem Reap - Saigon
We will take a morning flight to return to Saigon again. Check in our hotel. You have one more day to explore the city again. (L,D)
(OVERNIGHT IN SAIGON)

Day 14:Saigon Departure
You are free until your free coach transfer you to the airport to take your flight home.

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Highlights of Vietnam and Cambodia 12 Days

Day 1:Hanoi
On arrival at Noi Bai Airport,you are met by our guide and transferred to hotel. The capital of Vietnam,Hanoi is a stylish and gracious city that retains an unique old world charm and some Asia's most striking colonial architecture. If time permits we explore the charming Hanoi City. The first stop is 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. Close to this complex is the One Pillar Pagoda,whose origins date back to the foundation of city. We follow it with a visit to the Temple of Literature,which is well known as the first university of Vietnam and the History Museum with an excellent collection of artifacts illustrating the Vietnamese history. The sightseeing also includes the outlaying Ethnologic Museum,dedicated to Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups. Afterwards we drive back to the town center,stopping at the Tran Quoc Pagoda and Quan Thanh Temple. They are some major highlights set by the beautiful West Lake. We see these sights before continuing to the peaceful lake of Hoan Kiem with its sacred temple. In front of this lake is the famous water puppet theatre where we will see a fantastic performance. O/N in Ha Noi. (B)

Day 2:Hanoi – Halong
The legendary Halong Bay is truly one of Vietnam's most impressive scenic sights. Heading out of town we make our way to this nature wonder and embark a traditional boat for a five hour trip around Halong Bay. The exciting cruise provides us a fantastic view of the picturesque scenery blending with the sky and some 3,000 limestone islands rising amazingly from the clear and emerald water. These limestone karst formations are littered with beaches,grottoes and beautiful caves. We have a huge seafood lunch served on board and continue sailing out. Along the way we will anchor for a leisurely swim in a secluded cove and an enjoyable visit to one of the many hidden grottoes beneath towering cliffs. ON in Halong Bay. (B,L)

Day 3:Halong – Hue
Upon leaving Halong Bay we embark our vehicle and drive past the scenic rural landscape to Hanoi Airport for a short flight to Hue. On arrival,you are greeted by our guide and transferred to hotel. The small and quiet Hue City is widely known for magnificent architecture,pagodas and royal tombs laid in many small villages and surrounding hills. We spend this afternoon to visit Hue with the massive citadel,containing the Imperial City and the Purple Forbidden City. This royal residence was all but destroyed during the 1968 Tet Offensive,however it is still fascinating to walk among the ruins. The sightseeing continues with a walk to the bustling Dong Ba Market that sells a wide variety of local goods and handicrafts. Along the way we pass many fantastic eating spots,all ideal for visitors to sample some local delicacies. O/N in Hue. (B)

Day 4:Hue - Hoi An
The beautiful riverside Thien Mu Pagoda is one of the oldest ancient architectural structures for religious work ship in Hue. We include this in a half day cruise on the Perfume River which also gives us a taste of the scenic countryside and an enjoyable visit to the mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang in a tranquil setting of gardens and lakes. This impressive landmark reflects the beautiful architecture,intricate decor and mysterious statues. Afterwards we make a short drive though the rolling hill to see the elaborate royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc. By mid afternoon we depart for Hoi An with stopover in Lang Co Beach for a leisurely swim. The winding road begins as we make our way up the spectacular Hai Van pass. A view from the top of the pass is one of Vietnam’s most impressive panoramic scenes. We also have a chance to see on our way the China Beach and the Marble Mountain,whose peaks represent the five elements. O/N in Hoi An. (B)

Day 5:Hoi An Half  Day Walking Tour
The ancient architecture in place is a fascinating combination of Vietnamese traditional characters with Chinese and Japanese influence. There are plenty to see in this delightful and tranquil town,some of which are the famous Japanese Covered Bridges,the Pottery Museum,the 200 years old Tam Ky House,the Chua Ong Pagoda and the vibrant market. We visit these on our morning walking tour past many low tiled houses scattered along the small streets and assembly halls which reflect the town's multi-cultural past.

Day 6:Hoi An - Danang - Ho Chi Minh
We take a short drive to Danang and visit the famous Cham Museum which boasts the largest collection of Cham treasures in Vietnam. The following destination is Ho Chi Minh via a short flight to Danang. On arrival you are greeted and driven to hotel. This metropolis ,contradiction of its northern counterpart,is crowded with bikes and motorbikes,excited by numerous shopping areas and sidewalk cafés. ( If time permits) we stroll around the down town to explore the different local ways of life. O/N in Ho Chi Minh. (B)

Day 7:Ho Chi Minh - Cu Chi - Ho Chi Minh
The incredible underground network in Cu Chi stretched over 200 kilometres and became legendary during the American war. The extensive tunnels have been specially constructed with living areas,storage facilities,weapon factories,filed hospitals,command centres,plus accommodation. Today we have an excursion to Cu Chi Tunnels to visit an exposition hall and a widened section of the tunnels to get a feel of the underground life. There are also possibilities to fire off rounds from an AK47 or MK16 at the nearby rifle range. The following programme is a sightseeing of major sights in Ho Chi Minh City. We drive past many lively streets on our way to the Reunification Palace. This mansion was the former residence of the President of South Vietnam until end of April 1975. Close to the palace are some striking French colonial structures including the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Old Sai Gon Post Office. We see these before going to the Jade Emperor Pagoda and the War remnant exhibit. The final stop is Ben Thanh Market where anything and everything is for sale!. O/N in Ho Chi Minh. (B)

Day 8:Ho Chi Minh - Mekong Delta - Ho Chi Minh
Heading out of town,we travel by roads to the Mekong Delta. This plain region boasts the largest rice bowl of Vietnam. On arrival in My Tho we board a boat navigating around the intricate small canals,which is a great way to observe the local lifestyle close-up and catch a view dotted by many islands. The exciting river trip will pass by the lush green vegetation towards the famous Unicorn Island where we have a chance to stroll around an orchard,taste many seasonal fruits and see farmers at work. We navigate some narrower canals using small rowing boats to Ben Tre Province for an interesting visit to some local industries. The extra enjoyment is a lunch at one of the famous local eating spots. We drive back to Ho Chi Minh,stopping off en route to see the beautiful Ving Trang Pagoda and the Saigon's Chinatown,locally named Cho Lon. This bustling area is crammed with sacred temples and mysterious,narrow lanes. O/N in Ho Chi Minh. (B,L)

Day 9:Ho Chi Minh - Phnom Penh
The exciting combo journey continues to Phnom Penh via a short flight from Ho Chi Minh. On arrival at Po Chen Tong Airport you are greeted and driven to hotel. The capital of Cambodia,Phnom Penh lies near the confluence of the Mekong and Tonle Sap Rivers. This riverside town still maintains considerable charm despite its recent turbulent history. An afternoon city tour acquaints us with some major sights of Phnom Penh. The private quarters of the Royal Palace are now home to the royal family and are therefore very close to the public. At the northern area of the palace grounds is Silver Pagoda,the most sacred temple in the country. We visit both structures as well as the National Museum for an appreciation of the splendour of Khmer history. The sightseeing completes with a walk uphill to visit the legendary Wat Phnom and catch a fantastic view over the surrounding areas. O/N in Phnom Penh. (B)

Day 10:Phnom Penh - Siem Reap - Angkor Temples
This tranquil town of Siem Reap is our base for exploring the world famous temples of the ancient city Angkor,which was the capital of the powerful Khmer Empire from 802 AD to 1350 AD. Today we get a short morning boat trip to Siem Reap. On arrival you are met by our guide and transferred to hotel. The sightseeing tour begins with a short drive to the archeological area where we spend our time to visit the most striking structures. They are the South Gate of Angkor Thom which is famous for its series of colossal human faces carved in stone,the impressive Bayon Temple,the Royal Enclosure,Phimeanakas,the Elephant Terrace,the Terrace of the Leper King and the architectural masterpiece of Angkor Wat. We stroll around this massive monument,exploring the many galleries with columns ,libraries,pavilions,courtyards and ponds full of water reflecting the towering temple. O/N in Siem Reap. (B)

Day 11:Siem Reap - Angkor Temples
Today we continue exploring the wondrous Angkor Complex with the jungle covered temple of Ta Prohm. There are enormous fig trees and gigantic creepers which embrace themselves in the stone foundations of this structure giving the impression of man's creation being reclaimed by the powerful forces of nature. We visit this masterpiece and some nearby temples including Banteay Kdei,Sra Srong,Ta Keo,Thommanon and Chau Say Tevado. They almost belong to the small circuit according to the archaeologists’ division. Upon leaving this area we see various famous temples of the grand circuit such as Preah Khan,Kravan,Neak Pean,Krol Ko,Ta Som,East Mebon and Pre Rup. We round off our exciting day with a walk up to Phnom Bakheng Hill to admire the spectacular sunset over these sandstone monuments. O/N in Siem Reap.(B)

Day 12:Siem Reap - Departure
The temple exploration is not only activity in Siem Reap. We visit the famous Tonle Sap Lake on a boat trip out. This shallow lake boats the largest natural fresh water body in Southeast Asia and flows into the Tonle Sap River which joins the Mekong River in Phnom Penh. The traditional boat navigates along a small river towards the gigantesque lake,giving us a chance to explore floating village,local life style,friendly children in small boats and fishermen pulling in morning catch close up. This excursion is all depending on your departure time. The trip ends after your transfer to Siem Reap Airport for departure. (B)

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Highlight World Heritage 6 Days

Day 1:Arrival – Vientiane
Upon arrival at Wattay Airport you are met and transferred to our centrally located hotel. On the banks of the Mekong River,Vientiane is the charming and fascinating capital of Laos. This small town conjures up exotic images,with the curious mix of Lao,Thai,Chinese,Vietnamese,French influences. We explore the town this afternoon;with Wat Sisaket which is the oldest temple still standing in Vientiane. This amazing structure features remarkable frescoes and Buddha images. The following sight is Haw Prakeo,the former royal temple of Laos monarchy,where previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Statue. We then visit the imposingPatuxay Monument,which is well known as Vientiane's own Arc de Triumph before continuing to the famous That Luang Stupa. Overnight in Vientiane.

Day 2:Vientiane – Vang Vieng (B)
After breakfast,start the journeys northwards begin as depart the town and drive through the Atacular countryside towards the mountain region. Along the way we visit the busy and colorful market of Thalat where various hill tribes come to trade their goods and buy previsions. A next stop of our trip is Vang Xang 160 KM,famous for the archeological site dating back 11th century. We reach our final destination,Vang Vieng,which is nestled on a bend of the Nam Song River. The small and tranquil village of Vang Vieng is rapidly developed with the advent of tourist,but the beautiful scenery with a mixture of quiet water and limestone outcrops unchanged for century. After checking into hotel we take a wander to catch our first glimpse of this hill town. Over night in Vang Vieng.

Day 3:Vang Vieng – Luang Prabang (B)
Heading out of town we explore the famous cave of Tham Jang that was once used by local people as a hideout from Chinese invaders. We also cross the river toBan Huai Ngai,a very pleasant village where we can explore the different local lifestyle. Upon leaving Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang about 260 KM,the roads begin to deteriorate;however the stunning mountain scenery makes for an interesting journey. We wind our way through Kasi and Phoukhoune to Luang Prabang. This town with its gleaming temple roofs,fading colonial architecture and stunning mountain backdrop has been claimed by UNESCO to be "the best preserved traditional city in South East Asia ". There is little traffic on Luang Prabang roads and monks in orange robes scurry in all directions carrying umbrellas to shade themselves from the Sun. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day 4:Luang Prabang – City Tours (B)
The former Royal Palace has been turned into a National Museum . This interesting structure displays a lovely collection of the artifacts reflecting the richness of Lao culture dating from the days of the early kings right through the last sovereign. We also have enough time this day to explore some other landmarks,including the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun,the shrine of Wat Aham,the city's oldest temple of Wat Sene and the Wat Mai with five tiered roofs. A visit to Luang Prabang would be not complete without climbing 329 steps to the top of Phousi Hill for a beautiful sunset view of the Mekong River . The zigzag path crosses over various temples to the sacred,gilded stupa of Wat Phou,another World Heritage Site,recognized by UNESCO in 2002si at the summit. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day 5:Luang Phrabang – Pakou Caves (B)
Today,we continue our city tour,seeing the magnificent Wat Xieng Thong,which nestles at the meeting of the Mekong and the Nam Khan River . The temple structures are decorated in various ways with gilded stuccoes and doorways. The main Sim has a marvelous 'tree of life' mosaic pattern on an outer wall. We then board a cruise upstream on the Mekong River ,which also gives us a taste of the tranquil countryside and an interesting visit to the mysterious of Pak Ou Caves,crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes. Along the way,we stop at Ban Xang Hai to visit the rice wine distillation. Upon disembarking,we drive to the famous weaving village of Ban Phanom where shoppers have a chance to try their hand at bargaining. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day 6:Luang Prabang – Departure (B)
After breakfast The National Museum at the former Royal Palace,which displays a lovely collection of the artifacts reflecting the richness of Lao culture dating from the days of the early kings right through the last sovereign,and the central market are not to be missed. We visit these sights and have free time wandering around the town before transfer to the airport for flight departure.

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Vietnam World Heritage Discovery 15 Days

Day 1:Arrive in Hanoi
Upon arrival at the airport,you will be picked up and transferred to your hotel. Tonight,you will have welcome dinner at one of the fine restaurants in town.

Day 2:Hanoi – City tour
This trip is started at around 08:00am and ended at around 07:00pm. We will visit Ho Chi Minh complex and the Temple of Literature then we stop for our lunch in a local fine restaurant.
This afternoon,we visit the Ethnology Museum,West Lake area (Quan Thanh Temple and Tran Quoc Pagoda),Ngoc Son Temple and Hoan Kiem Lake. We have one hour to traveling around the Ancient city to see the daily Life of Hanoian and spend more hour to watch The Water Puppet show in the Theater on the bank of Hoan Kiem Lake.

Day 3:Hanoi – Halong Bay – Night train to Sapa
This morning we depart from Hanoi around 08.00. After more than 3 hours driving including a stop-over at the Humanity Center to donate money to the children who are the victims of Agent Orange,we arrive in Halong Bay at noon. We jump straight onto our boat,eat a delicious,fresh,seafood lunch and spend about 4 hours cruising this secluded bay. During that time we will have the opportunity to visit the spectacular Heaven Palace cave,crammed with stalagtites and stalagmites. Weather permitting,we can swim from our boat in the bay. We will return to Hanoi in the late afternoon. Tonight we take a night train to Sapa. Overnight on the Express train.

Day 4:Sapa – Home-stay
Up on arrival in Lao Cai Raiway station very earky we take our guide and car waiting for us and transfer to hotel. Breakfast at the local restaurant. Relax one or 2 hours, at 09 am we leave the sapa town and start trekking. The first part is on the road but we soon turn to the right and walk on a small path down the valley to the Muong Hoa River and from here to the Black H’mong village Lao Chai. Black H’mong is one of the biggest minority groups in the Sapa area. They are proud of their culture and keep their traditions and way of living. They have their own language and wear traditional indigio blue clothing. After this you continue to Ta Van village (1.200 m) to visit Zay people. Zay is a fairly small minority group of about 38.000 people who live mainly in the mountains in Northwest Vietnam. The development has meant that some of their old customs have been lost but many women still wear traditional shirts with a purple,blue or green colour. The Zay houses are build in wood and bamboo with clay floor. We stay overnight with a local family in Ta Van and have our dinner here.

Day 5:Sapa – Night train to Hanoi
After the breakfast we continue to visit Red Dao people at Giang Ta Chai where we also see a waterfall. The Red Dao women have very colourful red embroideries and coins on their clothing. On their head they wear a red scarf. Some of the women have shaved off their eyebrows because of a nice Red Zao’ Legend.

We continue along small paths in the rice fields,cross the Muong Hoa River and trek up to Su pan where you will meet the jeep transfer back to Sapa.

Tonight we drive back to Lao Cai to catch night train to Hanoi. Overnight on the Express train again.

Day 6:Hanoi – Night train to Dong Hoi
Up on arrival in Hanoi at around 06am,we transfer to our hotel for relax and breakfast. Free at your leisure. Tonight we take a night train to Dong Hoi where we start for the DMZ tour.

Day 7:DMZ tour and transfer Hue in the afternoon
Up on arrival in Dong Hoi Railway Station,we take our breakfast and take a private car to VinhMoc Tunel,Ben Hai river,Hien Luong Bridge…. We arrive in Hue at around 1PM.
Free in the afternoon.

Day 8:Hue – Boat trip
This morning,we have a dragon boat cruise up the Perfume River stopping along the way at the Thien Mu,or Heavenly Lady pagoda. We also visit some of the Royal Tombs of the Nguyen Emperors on the outskirts of the city. The Nguyen dynasty ruled Vietnam from 1802 until 1945 and several of its most prominent Emperors are buried in the surrounding countryside. THis afternoon the ancient walled Citadel containing the former Imperial Palace. The Citadel was closely modelled along the lines of the Forbidden City in Beijing. Much was damaged by French aerial bombing and also in the Tet Offensive in 1968. Now however much of the city is being faithfully restored thanks to generous funding by UNESCO.

Day 9:Hue – Hoi An via Danang
As we bid Hue farewell this morning we continue our south bound journey. This time in the comfort of an air-conditioned bus. The destination for today is the old trading town of Hoi An. Along the way though we will first stop at Lang Co beach,for coffee and refreshments,then onto the Hai Van pass,stopping at the top to take in the stunning views north over Lang Co beach and south over Danang city. Continuing on our way down the other side and into Danang,where we will stop at the Cham Museum,the famed China Beach,and Marble Mountains. Arriving in Hoi An we check into our hotel before spending the rest of the afternoon exploring and shopping.

Day 10:Hoi An half day walking tour
City tour in Hoian,an ancient Japanese port of trade. Much of Hoi An’s rare wooden architecture remains in this small,pleasant town. There are plenty to see in this delightful and tranquil town,some of which are the famous Japannese Covered Bridges,the Pottery Museum,the 200 years old Tam Ky House,the Chua Ong Pagoda,the vibrant market. We wisit these on our morning walking tour past many low tiled houses scattered along the small streets and assembly halls,which reflect the twon’s multi-cultural past. Free in the afternoon for shopping or doing other thing you are interested in or take part in Vietnamamese Demonstration cooking class.Overnight in Hoi An

Day 11:Hoi An – Danang - Fly to Saigon – Saigon half day city tour
We transfer to Da Nang for the short internal flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). Upon arrival we transfer to our hotel. Ho Chi Minh City is the largest and busiest city in Vietnam with a population of 7 million people. In the afternoon we set to explore the city’s sights including the War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Palace.

Day 12:Saigon – Cu Chi Tunnel – Saigon
In the morning we will leave Saigon for the Cu Chi tunnels,otherwise known as the 'Iron Triangle' or 'Iron Land'. On our way there we will drive through pleasant countryside;rubber plantations and rice paddies. Before entering the tunnels,we will see a short,introductory video showing how they were constructed,followed by an exploration of the maze of tunnels,some of which have been widened to allow tourist access. Also on display are various mantraps and the remains of an American tank as well as numerous bomb craters made by 500lb bombs dropped by B52 bombers.

Day 13:Saigon – Mekong Delta
After breakfast at your hotel. We set off for a drive through the Mekong Delta to the town of Cai Be,well-known for it's floating market. Here we will board our private boat for a cruise along the maze of waterways and canals to Vinh Long. We will stop at the home of a Bonsai gardener for a sumptuous Delta lunch,including the popular dish of 'Elephant ear fish',before continuing our exploration of the tributaries and canals of the delta. Towards the end of the day we arrive in Cantho where we stay at lovely Sai Gon Ca tho hotel,right by the Mekong river.
Stay overnight at hotel in Can Tho

Day 14:Mekong Delta - Saigon
Rising early to the sounds of the Delta coming to life for another day,we have breakfast and start our trip with a boat cruise on sparking streams along the endless waterway of Mighty Mekong River to Cairang floating markets. There will be hundreds of boats loaded with fruits,vegetables and fish jostling for trade. Sellers advertisers their wares by crying out across the waters. We visit the lush orchards and are treated to a delicious tropical fruits. In the afternoon,driven to Ho Chi Minh city

Day 15:Saigon – Departure
Free time until transfer you to the airport to catch your flight back home.

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Fansipan Trekking 5 Days

Day 1:Night train Hanoi to Lao Cai.
You will be picked up at hotel 1 hour before train departure for transfer to the train station. Night train (soft sleeper,A/C) to Lao Cai. The night train leaves at 21:10. Overnight on train.

Day 2:Lao Cai - Sapa.
You arrive at Lao Cai train station early in the morning,from where you will be picked up and have a shared bus transfer to Sapa (35 km - about 1 hour drive). Check-in at Cat Cat Hotel. The guide will provide you with more information about the trek. The rest of the day is at your own leisure and free exploration. Stay the night in Sapa at Cat Cat Hotel.

Day 3:Fansipan trekking. (L,D)
Start at 09:00 you travel by car toward the Silver Waterfall where you will be able to take a short walk to visit and take photos. You will then be driven further to Heaven Gate,the highest peak of the roads in Vietnam. From there you can see Fansipan - the highest peak of the Indochina mountains and enjoy stunning views. The trek will be relatively soft until lunch time. After a couple of hours hiking,you will have a break at a nice spot in the forest and enjoy a good picnic lunch. With new energy you start ascending as well as descending towards the camp-site. En route you have many opportunities to enjoy the scenery and magnificent view to Sapa area and beautiful landscapes of Lai Chau province. You will reach the camp-site at 2900m in the late afternoon. Now it is time to relax and enjoy a well-prepared dinner.

Day 4:Fansipan trekking. (B,L,D)
After having breakfast,you continue climbing to the top,where you can celebrate your victory. From there,you can enjoy the best views of the beautiful nature. You will then start descending. You stop on the way for picnic lunch. After lunch,you continue a tough trek,which is all the way down hill through the rain-forest. This part requires a great concentration to step on step trail until you meet the camp-site at 2.700m. Here you spend another night in tent.

Day 5:Fansipan - Sapa. Night train to Hanoi. (B,L)
After a long sleep,you get up in the fresh air of the wild nature. Before heading back to civilization. You trek down hill through the well-protected forest and after a couple of hours hiking,you stop for picnic lunch. You will then keep descending toward Sin Chai village views and beautiful surroundings. You stop at the village for a while before returning to Sapa town by car. Here you have time to have a shower,relax and celebrate your achievement.
In the afternoon,the bus takes you to Lao Cai train station to catch the night train back to Hanoi. You will arrive in Hanoi next morning.
The tour ends at the Hanoi train station!

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