Hanoi and Heritage
Cambodia - 9 Days
Private Journeys
Journey Details and Highlights
Hanoi and Heritage
Day 1: Hanoi Arrival and City Tour
Meet your guide upon arrival in Hanoi and transfer to your hotel (early check-in is not included; morning arrival recommended). Begin a half-day tour exploring Hanoi, a city rich in history with tranquil lakes, tree-lined boulevards, and French colonial architecture. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex (view the Mausoleum from outside), the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, and the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university. Stroll through the Old Quarter, where narrow streets bustle with shops, markets, and street vendors. This immersive experience offers a glimpse into local life and opportunities for souvenir shopping.
Overnight in HanoiDay 2: Hanoi to Halong Bay Cruise (B,L,D)
After breakfast, transfer to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its emerald waters and nearly 2,000 limestone islands. Board your overnight cruise and soak in the natural beauty and tranquility of this famous bay. Activities may include kayaking, sunbathing, and exploring caves, depending on your cruise package. Onboard meals feature fresh local seafood and Vietnamese cuisine. Focus Asia guides are not included on cruise overnight; only in-house guides are available
Overnight on boardDay 3: Halong Bay to Hue (B,L,D)
Continue cruising in Halong Bay in the morning before disembarking and returning to Hanoi by vehicle. Catch an evening flight to Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for overnight stay.
Overnight in HueDay 4: Hue Imperial City Tour (B)
After breakfast, explore Hue, renowned for its royal architecture along the Perfume River. Visit the Tomb of Tu Duc, set in a peaceful pine forest, and the Old Imperial Citadel, including the Forbidden Purple City. Learn about the Nguyen Dynasty’s history and marvel at palaces, temples, and fortresses laid out according to Feng Shui principles. The afternoon is free for leisure or optional activities.
Overnight in HueDay 5: Hue to Hoi An via Hai Van Pass (B)
Start with a morning boat ride to Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue’s iconic seven-story tower, followed by a visit to the Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, known for its grand architecture. Drive along the scenic Hai Van Pass, stopping at the Cham Museum in Danang to admire over 300 Cham artifacts. Continue to Hoi An, a charming coastal town.
Overnight in Hoi AnDay 6: HHoi An Walking Tour and Village Visits (B)
Explore Hoi An’s UNESCO-listed Old Town on foot, visiting the Culture and History Museum, Chinese Assembly Hall, Japanese Covered Bridge, and historic old houses. In the afternoon, take a boat to Cam Kim carpentry village and Thanh Ha pottery village, observing traditional craftsmanship and local life. Return to Hoi An for overnight stay.
Overnight in Hoi AnDay 7: Hoi An to Saigon via Cu Chi Tunnels (B)
After breakfast, transfer to Danang Airport for a flight to Saigon. Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, a complex network of underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War, and explore a short section to understand the ingenuity of local villagers.
Overnight in SaigonDay 8: Mekong Delta Exploration (B)
Journey to the Mekong Delta and board a boat to Cai Be Floating Market, witnessing local trade on the river. Visit nearby islands with fruit orchards and small cottage industries. Return to Vinh Long and drive back to Saigon in the afternoon.
Overnight in SaigonDay 9: Saigon City Tour and Departure (B)
Take a half-day tour of Saigon, Vietnam’s largest city. Visit the War Remnants Museum, Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, Opera House, and City Hall. Explore local markets like Ben Thanh and Dong Khoi Street for souvenirs before transferring to the airport for departure.
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Included Services
All described sightseeing as in program above
Transportation in private air-conditioned vehicle
Accommodation in hotels with daily breakfast
English-speaking local guides
Admission fees to indicated sights
Meals mentioned in the itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Domestic gov’t tax and service charge
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Excluded Services
International air tickets
Flights & visa fees
Travel Insurance in all kinds
Meals not mentioned in itinerary
Compulsory Meals
Drinks during Meals
Tip, drinks, any personal expenses
Early check-in and late check-out
Peak season surcharges
Compulsory meals on 24 and 31 Dec
