THE ESSENCE OF VIETNAM

From the hustle of Hanoi to Mai Chau’s hidden villages, the historical sites of Hoi An and the sensory streets of Saigon, all the way to the striking South Coast, spend time uncovering the true essence of Vietnam on this journey through place and people.

When to go
Nov - Apr
 
From Price
£26,300 PP*
(excl international flights)
Ideal Length
14 Nights
 



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Experience Highlights

  • Gain a unique perspective of six of Vietnam’s most incredible locations, encompassing cities, countryside and coastal wonders.
  • Curated cultural activities create an insider’s experience – cook with private chefs, be guided in meditation and learn traditional local customs like mat weaving and fishing.
  • Hike, cycle, swim, kayak and 4x4 across stunning natural landscapes, and go sailing aboard a luxury catamaran to explore the South Coast islands.
  • Specialist guides and translators ensure that each region is perfectly showcased, from UNESCO sites and national parks to humble villages and local markets.

HANOI'S CULTURE AND CULINARY SCENE

Begin at one of Hanoi’s most striking buildings, the Opera House, before meeting your local foodie expert for an immersive discovery of Hanoi’s culinary scene, stopping to sample Hanoi’s famous dish - cha ca va long (fish with turmeric and dill). Make your way through the beguiling Old Quarter, as your guide shares stories of their favourite eateries, introducing you to the cooks, chefs and characters that shape the street food scene.

Visit a stunning pagoda for an energetic private Tai Chi and mediation practice before feasting on a delicious picnic in the courtyard. Ride bicycles around the West Lake’s shores, exploring local street markets, garden cafés and art galleries. Set out on an 4x4 exploration of the tranquil countryside beyond the Red River, riding through the backroads and along its banks, immersing into the area’s traditional rural activities and sites with your guide.

THE VILLAGES AND VALLEYS OF MAI CHAU

Drive out to Mai Chau, nestled in an idyllic valley, providing a blissful antithesis to the bustle of Hanoi, where picturesque patchworks of paddy fields speckle the landscape, and tiny ethnic Tay and Hmong villages invite authentic interactions. Stop enroute at Ba Khan Lake for a serene kayaking exploration, before visiting a delightful kitchen garden, brimming with seasonal herbs and vegetables, where you will pick and choose ingredients for a private cooking class, learning how to craft a delicious meal from a talented local chef.

This afternoon, head off with a trekking guide to hike the majestic hillside. Explore a Muong village, before trekking onward to summit the mountaintop of this remote region. Along the way, cross paths with farmers and villagers, sharing stories and traditional customs as you go. Weave your way around the winding red dirt roads before making your way to a gorgeous lookout point, stopping for a picnic and time to rest and soak up the tranquil mountain atmosphere, before returning to your serene retreat for the night.

FROM HUE TO HOI AN: HISTORY AND HERITAGE

Your journey continues in the historical Hue region, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. Visit the Imperial City, following a carefully planned route around the Citadel, before cycling across the railway tracks to Phu Mong Village, home to an array of unique garden homes. From here, head for Hoi An, driving via the Hai Van Pass, perhaps one of Vietnam’s most renowned scenic roads. Zoom around the countryside on a vintage Vespa tour, riding over the bridge to Cam Kim Island and zigzagging through rice fields, stopping along the way to learn the art of mat weaving, farming and how to make the perfect Banh Dap (rice cracker).

Spend a morning on the edge of Hoi An, in the hamlet of An My. Here, a local chef will guide you through Ba Le Market, introducing you to the vendors. Hoi An is renowned for its delicious culinary specialities, and this morning’s cooking class will introduce you to some of the region’s best-known dishes. Next, discover Hoi An’s UNESCO World Heritage Old Town, visiting beautifully preserved old merchant houses, atmospheric temples and lively markets, before an immersive evening of cocktail-making at a series of secret locations.

SAIGON’S SKYSCRAPERS, SIDECARS AND TIGHT SQUEEZES

The sprawling city is a feast for the senses, and a sidecar exploration is the perfect way to take in the sights and sounds, weaving through the traffic to the Notre Dam Cathedral, District 4’s renowned floating markets and the historic Chinatown. Stop to savour an array of street food specialities, and finish off with a nightcap at rooftop bar, soaking up Saigon’s amazing energy.

Rising early, venture out of town to the incredible Cu Chi tunnels, the vast network of underground passages that enabled the Viet Cong to capture the city in 1975. Marvel at how narrow these tunnels are, with the opportunity to squeeze into some of them, and visit the fascinating American War museum to gain a new perspective on this dark period of history.  

 

COASTAL CRUISING IN NHA TRANG

 

Next, the gorgeous coastline of Nha Trang awaits, where both coastal and land-based adventures are endless. Explore the hiking trails, spotting langurs while soaking in the ocean views. Venture out by speedboat, island hopping your way to the best scuba diving sites and private beaches. Visit the Núi Chúa National Park, one of Vietnam’s key biodiversity corridors, encompassing 14 tropical ecosystems. Look out for the green sea turtles that frequent Bai Thit Beach – one of the few places in Vietnam where nesting turtles return to lay eggs each year.

Tackle the local waters by windsurfer and water ski or set sail on a luxury catamaran. Embark on a private cruise across the emerald sea, sailing either by day or night. By day, swim in hidden coves, snorkel vibrant reefs or kayak across the coastline, or set sail under the starry night sky, experiencing the quiet thrill of an evening of fishing. This cherished local pastime offers a chance to engage with the bay’s vibrant nocturnal marine life, before ending the day with a sunset cruise, enjoying champagne and canapés as the sun melts into the horizon.

Where to Stay

Capella Hanoi

Six Senses Ninh Van Bay, Vietnam

Amanoi, Vietnam

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