Vietnam In Style: Whispers of Vietnam

Itinerary

B(breakfast), L(lunch), D(dinner)

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1. 
   Day 01

   Saigon arrival

   Xin chào – welcome to Ho Chi Minh – Việt Nam!
   Upon arrival to Tan Son Nhat International Airport, welcomed by the local tour guide and transfer to downtown to check in the hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure after a long flight and reset your bio-clock before gearing up for an interesting exploration ahead.
   Please note!
   -        Hotel check-in time is around 14.00
   -        Depending on your arrival time, the program will be adjusted accordingly.
    

2. 
   Day 02

   Saigon city tour - (optional Cu Chi tunnels)

   We started the city tour at the Reunification Palace, the witness of The Resistance War Against America ended in 1975. The grand building today is a Museum and Hall of official receptions.

   Please note: Exhibition Hall entrance is not included

   Nearby the Palace are the colonial-styled Central Post Office and the Notre Dame Cathedral, built between 1877 and 1883 and one of the city’s major landmarks. Our last stop this morning will be the War Remnants Museum.

   Back to your hotel later on. Overnight in Saigon.

   Optional: Cu Chi tunnels

   Pick up by driver and guide we drive overland to Cu Chi Tunnels, an incredible underground network constructed by Vietnamese guerrillas to protect the region against American attacks during the Resistance War Against America. We can even crawl a part inside the tunnel, visit their infirmary, kitchen....to discover how people had survived hereby. Back to your hotel later on.

   Tour includes: Transportation, English speaking guide, entrance fee, water during transfer

   Tour excludes: Accommodation, gratuity, meals & beverage not mentioned, personal expense & other expense not mentioned
    

3. 
   Day 03

   Saigon - Mekong Delta – Saigon

   Early morning, transfer to Ben Tre. Arriving at Ham Luong dock, board the moto-boat & cruise along Ham Luong River, a tributary to the Mekong River. The cool breeze from the river and lush tropical islets along its banks will immediately get you excited to explore all the great things ahead.

   Arrive and visit various local workshops where you can find many wonderful examples or learn how local people use ageless techniques to create their crafts, including activated charcoal, dried coconut, handy coconut husk brooms. There are many family-businesses that are using coir, or coconut fiber, to create amazing art, it’s time for you to learn and witness their skill. Drive around the village roads by “Xe Lôi” – a local motorized rickshaw then kayaking through the lush tropical canal.

   Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.

   Break time, treating yourself by cycling around the village or walking around to relish the beautiful countryside (this activity is optional if time available and will be done on your own). Visit the local fruit plantation, enjoy seasonal tropical fruits, and spend time relaxing while being rowed in a small boat slowly crossing the natural canals to get a sense of how truly beautiful this area is. Embark on the sampan and return to the dock then back to Saigon. Overnight in Saigon.
    

4. 
   Day 04

   Sjourney 3D2N HCM-HN

   Welcome to Ho Chi Minh: A Prelude to Your Extraordinary Journey

   As the morning sun rises higher, casting gentle golden light across the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh, the city awakens with a vibrant yet graceful rhythm. Around 07:30 AM, your luxurious train journey begins.
   Upon arrival at Saigon Station, you will be warmly welcomed and guided to board the train. Thanks to the attentive staff, all preparations and procedures are carried out smoothly, helping you to completely relax before the trip.

   Take a few tranquil moments to soak in the elegant surroundings, sip a refreshing juice or coffee, and enjoy the soft melodies of traditional Vietnamese music drifting through the lounge. Let your mind unwind, ready to embrace an extraordinary day of travel and discovery...

   At noon, Savor Vietnam’s Splendor by Rail

   Embark on a leisurely journey through Vietnam’s southern coast, where vibrant dragon fruit fields - lovingly tended by hardworking farmers -stretch beneath the sun.

   An Evening of Anticipation and Elegance.

   As dusk approaches, at around 06:00 PM, do your finest attire and join fellow travelers in the opulent restaurant.

   Engage in lively conversation over refreshments, and the gentle sound of clinking glasses provides a delightful soundtrack. As the evening progresses, indulge in a sumptuous dinner crafted to tantalize your taste buds. Each course reveals culinary artistry, seamlessly paired with fine wines or expertly mixed cocktails.
    

5. 
   Day 05

   Sjourney 3D2N HCM-HN

   Morning: The Essence of Hoi An

   After a leisurely breakfast on board, the day begins with a scenic The Heart of Ancient Hoi An Unveiled.

   Lose yourself in Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where centuries of history unfold with every step.

   Your exploration begins at the heart of Hoi An's mercantile past - the bustling Hoi An Market. A whirlwind of sights, sounds, and intoxicating aromas, this market offers a captivating immersion into local life. Browse stalls overflowing with shimmering silks, intricately carved handicrafts, and a dazzling array of exotic spices.

   Continue your stroll through the enchanting Old Town, where time seems to stand still. Arrive at the Phuc Kien Chinese Assembly Hall, a magnificent architectural gem adorned with vibrant gates, mythical dragon statues, and ornate rooftops. Discover the enduring practice of ancestor worship as you observe local devotees making offerings at the family altar.

   Venture deeper into history with a visit to the remarkably preserved Phung Hung Ancient House or its counterpart, the Tan Ky Ancient House. These timeworn structures have withstood centuries of change, offering a glimpse into the lives of prosperous merchants who once conducted trade with merchants from faraway lands.

   Your journey culminates at the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of Hoi An's diverse heritage. Built over 400 years ago, this graceful bridge once connected the town's Japanese and Chinese communities. Admire the intricate carvings and paintings within, as your guide deciphers their symbolism and cultural significance.
   Conclude your morning with a leisurely exploration of Hoi An's renowned handicraft shops and art galleries. Venture off the beaten path, discovering hidden laneways and charming local neighborhoods, where the true essence of Hoi An reveals itself.

   Enjoy a delightful lunch featuring Hoi An’s signature dishes.
   After lunch, return to your train for an exquisite onboard dinner, then unwind and savor a peaceful evening embraced by the comfort and elegance of your carriage.
    

6. 
   Day 06

   Sjourney - Hanoi arrival

   At morning, awaken to the gentle rhythm of Vietnam’s countryside.

   In the soft glow of dawn, passengers stir - still drowsy, yet filled with anticipation. As the train glides through the outskirts, the rural landscape of Northern Vietnam unfolds like an ink-wash painting: red-tiled roofs peeking through rows of areca palms, lush green rice fields glistening with morning dew, and winding dirt paths weaving through the countryside. During this serene journey, guests enjoy a breakfast.

   At noon, A Culinary Journey Served On Rails

   In the warmth of the train cabin, guests enjoy a refined lunch, harmoniously blending traditional Vietnamese flavors with international cuisine. It’s a gentle yet profound experience, where culinary delights, scenery, and emotion blend into an unforgettable journey.

   At afternoon, immersed in the peaceful charm of Vietnamese countryside

   Afternoon on the train is the perfect time for travelers to relax and take in the rustic yet captivating beauty of Northern Vietnam. The train glides past vast rice fields meticulously cared for by hardworking farmers, and distant, undulating mountain ranges that resemble brushstrokes in a watercolor painting. The serene, silt-rich Red River gently reveals itself, like a crimson thread weaving through this fertile land. Further on, palm forests and tea hills briefly emerge in the soft afternoon light, evoking a tranquil and romantic image of Vietnam’s midlands.
   At 15:00 pm, check-out procedures commence.

   The train is scheduled to reach Gia Lam train station. At 16:00 pm, check-out procedures commence. You will be picked up by driver transfer to your hotel in Hanoi. Overnight in Hanoi.
    

7. 
   Day 07

   Hanoi city tour

   Breakfast at hotel.

   In the morning, we will start our city tour from Ba Dinh Square where the most solemn ceremonies of Hanoi take place. We first visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (Closed on Monday and Friday) where is the last rest place of Ho Chi Minh President, we then visit One-Pillar pagoda nearby with unique architecture first built on 1049 by King Ly Thai Tong. Continue visiting Ho Chi Minh Residence including the wooden ethnic minority style house, which was built on stilts, is surrounded by lovely peaceful gardens and his fish pond.

   Goon to the Temple of Literature, the very first high school of Vietnam Scholars and a temple dedicated to Confucius.

   Lunch at a local restaurant on your own cost. 

   Afternoon, have an overall view of the capital by a “cyclo” visit, which will go through the fascinating network of narrow alleys and shop houses also known as ‘The 36 Streets’ – each street being named after the merchandise traditionally sold there, ranging from fabrics to crafts and from medicines to tombstones. Late afternoon we will enjoy a unique fascinating show of Water Puppetry, a traditional stage art of Northern Vietnam.

   Back to your hotel. Overnight in Hanoi.
    

8. 
   Day 08

   Hanoi - Halong Bay

   Breakfast at hotel.

   At around 8.00 – 8.30 AM, pick up by driver transfer to Halong Bay (apx~ 3 hours transfer), the pride of the Gulf of Tonkin, a natural heritage site designated by UNESCO in 1994 and 2006. Upon arrival in Halong, you can check in the cruise overnight to discover the magnificent beauty of this “descending dragon” bay created by thousands of oddly shaped limestone cliffs and karst grottoes. After a lunch on board, we can visit the grottoes, swim or kayak, pass by floating houses and get close to the islands to enjoy their beauty up close. Back to the cruise, enjoy the cooking demonstration before dinner. In the evening, attend activities on the boat or relax as you wish.

   Overnight on board.

   Please note: The above cruise itinerary is subjected to final confirmed cruise and could be changed without prior notice due to weather conditions.
    

9. 
   Day 09

   Halong Bay - Hanoi - train to Sapa

   You should get up early to enjoy the early morning dawn on the sea. The Vietnamese call "the East Sea" by a point oriented name "the eastern sea", so you can guess like a miracle to see the sunrise over the small islands of the bay. After breakfast, our boat will continue to cruise in wonderful areas where almost every island has its own name, shape or reminder such as Man Head Island, Turtle Island, Sail Island, etc... Check out your room and have brunch on board while the cruise returns to the pier. Disembark from the cruise and our driver will take you back to your hotel in Hanoi center.

   Before the train depart 1 hours, pick up by driver transfer to Hanoi train station for your overnight train to Lao Cai (22:00 – 5:55+1). Overnight on train.
    

10. 
    Day 10

    Sapa

    Upon arrival Lao Cai train station, breakfast will be served at VIP Lounge, Lao Cai Train Station.

    Afterward, pick up by driver and tour guide head to your hotel in Sapa, breakfast will be served at a local restaurant. Afterward, start your trekking tour, the walk takes you from Lao Chai village of Black Hmong minority to Ta Van village of Giay minority.

    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 indigo blue clothing.

    Giay 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 color. The Giay’s houses are build of wood and bamboo with a clay floor. 

    Afterwards, back to your hotel later on. Overnight in Sapa.

    Please note! Hotel check-in time is around 14:00/15.00
     

11. 
    Day 11

    Sapa - Hanoi

    Breakfast at hotel. Freetime at your leisure till scheduled time (around 14:00 – 15:00), pick up by driver transfer back to Hanoi. Overnight in Hanoi.

    Please note! Hotel check-out time is around 11.00.
     

12. 
    Day 12

    Hanoi departure

    Breakfast at hotel.
    Freetime at your leisure till scheduled time, pick up by driver transfer to the airport for your flight to Hanoi.
    End of service.
    Please note! Hotel check-out time is around 11.00.