Vietnam is a country of contrasts, where the bustling cities meet the tranquility of its mountains, rivers, and coastlines.
Over 8 unforgettable days, we'll experience the very best of Northern Vietnam together. From the energy of Hanoi's street food scene and hidden alleyways to the limestone peaks of Ninh Binh and an overnight cruise through the emerald waters of the breathtaking Halong Bay, this journey blends culture, adventure, nature, and connection in equal measure.
Along the way we'll share meals with locals, explore places beyond the typical tourist trail, and experience the warmth and hospitality that make Vietnam so special. Within the chaos and between the calm, you may just discover the balance that makes Vietnam impossible to forget.
Xin chΓ o! Welcome to Vietnam. Upon arrival in Hanoi, make your way to the hotel and settle in before meeting the group. During our welcome briefing, weβll review the itinerary, collect travel insurance and emergency contact details, and answer any questions before the adventure begins. Weβll then head out together for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, where youβll enjoy your first taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine and get to know your fellow travelers.
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Begin the day at Hanoiβs historic Temple of Literature, Vietnamβs first university. Enjoy lunch at KOTO, a social enterprise that supports disadvantaged youth through hospitality training, before experiencing a traditional water puppet performance by a local family. In the evening, join a guided street food tour through the Old Quarter, where youβll sample authentic Northern Vietnamese dishes while discovering the history, culture, and vibrant atmosphere of one of Hanoiβs oldest neighbourhoods.
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βAfter checking out of the hotel, travel around 2.5 hours to Ninh Binh, often referred to as the βHalong Bay on land.β Visit the peaceful Thai Vi Temple before enjoying a traditional home-cooked Vietnamese lunch with a local family. In the afternoon, hike the 486 steps to Mua Cave Viewpoint, where youβll be rewarded with sweeping views over the limestone karsts, rice fields, and Ngo Dong River. Later, check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening at your leisure.
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βFuel up on breakfast this morning and enjoy your peaceful time. Then in the afternoon head out on a 1.5-hour boat trip in the Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve β home to the endangered langur monkeys, this conservation area is the largest wetland natural reserve in Red River Delta and is known as βwaveless bayβ for the still water surface that reflects the surrounding mountains. The boat will take you around the lagoon through limestone peaks and small caves.
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βAfter breakfast, journey to the breathtaking Lan Ha Bay, part of the magical Halong Bay region and one of the worldβs most spectacular natural wonders. Board your overnight cruise and sail through emerald waters surrounded by towering limestone karsts, explore hidden caves, and soak in the unforgettable scenery. Enjoy freshly prepared meals on board before spending the night beneath the stars on the bay.
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βStart the morning with an optional Tai Chi session on the sundeck as the sun rises over the bay, followed by a light breakfast. Spend the remainder of the cruise relaxing and taking in the breathtaking scenery before enjoying brunch on board. Around midday, disembark and return to Hanoi, where youβll check into your hotel for your final evening.
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βFree at your leisure to discover the capital city at your leisure.
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All good things come to an end. Spend your final hours exploring Hanoi or simply unwinding before departing for the airport and beginning your journey home.