Vietnam and Northern Laos

Wake up feeling energized after a restful night's sleep at your luxurious hotel and enjoy a delicious breakfast before embarking on a full day tour with your private guide. Explore the incredible underground network of Cu Chi, renowned for its tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. In the afternoon, visit Ho Chi Minh City's top attractions including Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon Central Post Office, War Remnants Museum, and the Reunification Palace, formerly known as the Presidential Palace of South Vietnam. End your day with a memorable experience either by admiring the spectacular sunset view from the top of the Bitexco Tower, the tallest building in Vietnam or by joining a night tour on a vintage Vespa to experience the vibrant culinary culture of Ho Chi Minh City. Rest up in the evening for the adventures to come.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City:
Inclusions: Private airport pick-up/ Tour guide/ Hotel accommodation

After a day of exploring the city, it's time to experience the natural beauty and tranquil lifestyle of the Mekong Delta. Take a 2-hour drive to Ben Tre, a province renowned for its coconut groves and traditional cottage industries. Embark on a motorboat ride along narrow canals and observe locals making bricks and coconut candies, sleeping mates. Take a ride on a motor cart or join a cycling tour to explore the coconut forests, rice fields, and vegetable gardens. After lunch, continue your day with a short ride on a sampan boat, drifting along a small canal lined with nipa palm trees. Arrive in Can Tho city late in the afternoon, where you'll spend the night in the Mekong Delta's capital city.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City:
Inclusions: Private airport pick-up/ Tour guide/ Hotel accommodation

This morning, you'll explore the famous Cai Rang floating market, the largest floating market in the Mekong Delta. This unique market is an important cultural site for the local people, who prefer to shop and trade on the river instead of in town. After the visit, you'll return to Ho Chi Minh City for a short flight to Danang in central Vietnam, and arrive in Hoi An city for the night.

Overnight in Hoi An:
Inclusions: Private airport pick-up/ Tour guide/ Hotel accommodation

Hoi An is a charming city, beautifully preserved example of a South-East Asian trading port, dating back from the 15th to the 19th century, and its unique heritage is reflected in its buildings and street plan, influenced by both indigenous and foreign cultures. On this day, you will get picked up and head to the boat dock after breakfast for a unique experience in a fishing village. You'll have the opportunity to see and learn about the life of the fishing community, and take a short ride in a basket boat, cycle through the countryside along quiet country roads lined with fields of rice, coconut, and corn. Return to Hoi An town in the afternoon for a tour of the Old Quarter. Discover the charm of this well-preserved trading port as we explore its historic buildings, cultural exchanges, and local lifestyle. Marvel at the ancient Cam Pho communal house and iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. Immerse yourself in the authentic Quan Thang ancient house and vibrant Fujian Assembly Hall. Visit the bustling central market, where you'll witness the daily life of locals and find an array of delicious food. But that's not all! As a special highlight, you'll also have the unique opportunity to learn the art of making traditional lanterns. Under the guidance of enthusiastic craftsmen, you'll experience each stage of lantern-making, from bending the frame to completing your very own lantern.

Overnight in Hoi An:
Inclusions: Private airport pick-up/ Tour guide/ Hotel accommodation

You have a day of leisure to spend as you wish in Hoi An. The town has plenty to offer, from the beautiful beach to lanterns, shopping, boat trips, cooking classes, and cycling tours. It's a shopping paradise with tailor-made shops for shoes and clothes. The town's cuisine is also a major attraction, with a variety of delicious and affordable options available. This free day provides you with the opportunity to explore Hoi An at your own pace and leisure.

Overnight in Hoi An:
Inclusions: Private airport pick-up/ Tour guide/ Hotel accommodation

Bid farewell to Hoi An in the morning and travel to the former capital city of Hue, which was the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty. On the way, you will stop to visit the Museum of Cham Sculpture and enjoy stunning views of the coastline from the Hai Van Pass. Upon arrival in Hue, you will embark on a walking tour of the walled citadel, where the former Imperial Palace and the Forbidden Purple City are located. You will learn about the history and daily life of the Nguyen Dynasty, which ruled Vietnam for over a century. You will also visit the Hue Royal Antiquities Museum, which houses a collection of antique objects that once belonged to the royal family. Next, you will travel to the site of the ancient colosseum in Hue, which was used for elephant and tiger fighting. Here, you will admire the unique architecture and learn about the fierce battles that took place in the arena. Finally, the tour concludes with a visit to Truc Chi Garden, a workshop where handmade bamboo paper art is created. You will have the opportunity to learn how to use the bamboo pulp carving technique to create works of art.

Overnight in Hue:
Inclusions: Private airport pick-up/ Tour guide/ Hotel accommodation

Start the day with a gentle cruise on a dragon boat down the Perfume River. You'll visit Thien Mu Pagoda, the most famous religious site in Hue, and explore its landscaped gardens, seven-story octagonal tower, and watch monks chanting. Next, you'll visit the Tomb of King Tu Duc and the Tomb of King Khai Dinh, two of the most beautiful and impressive structures of the Nguyen Dynasty that reflect a blend of Asian and European architectural styles. The afternoon flight takes you to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam where you will start to explore the most beautiful part of your 14-day trip.

After breakfast, you will start your day by visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Uncle Ho's house on stilts to learn about the life and legacy of Vietnam's beloved leader. Next, you will visit the One Pillar Pagoda, a unique temple built on a single stone pillar, and the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university. After a quick lunch break, you will head to the Hoa Lo Prison, known as the "Hanoi Hilton" during the Vietnam War, to gain insight into the country's history of struggle and resistance. Next, you will visit the Women's Museum, which showcases the important role of women in Vietnam's history and culture. You will then take a cyclo ride through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter to soak up the atmosphere and experience local life. Your last stop of the day will be at Hoan Kiem Lake with Ngoc Son Temple, where you can learn about the legend of the lake and its significance to the people of Hanoi. To wrap up the day, you will attend a traditional water puppet show, a unique and entertaining art form that has been a part of Vietnam's cultural heritage for centuries.

Overnight in Hanoi:
Inclusions: Private airport pick-up/ Tour guide/ Hotel accommodation

In the morning, you will be picked up from your hotel in Hanoi and driven to Halong Bay. Upon arrival at the pier in Halong City, you will board the cruise ship. As you cruise through the mesmerizing limestone karsts and crystal-clear waters, a delicious lunch will be served on board. Take in the stunning scenery as you glide along the bay. You will have the opportunity to visit a fascinating cave, where a guided tour will unveil its impressive formations. In the afternoon, you can choose to swim, kayak, or simply relax on the sun deck. As the sun sets, enjoy a delectable dinner on the boat, surrounded by the breathtaking views of Halong Bay. You will spend the night on the cruise ship, immersed in the serene ambiance of the bay.

Overnight in Halong Bay:
Inclusions: Private airport pick-up/ Tour guide/ Hotel accommodation

Wake up early to witness the captivating sunrise over the bay. Participate in a Tai Chi session on the sundeck to rejuvenate your body and mind. After a hearty breakfast, the cruise will continue to explore different areas of Halong Bay, allowing you to discover more hidden treasures and awe-inspiring landscapes. A delicious brunch will be served on board as the boat gradually returns to the pier. After disembarking from the cruise, you will be transferred back to Hanoi and then onward to the airport for a evening flight to northern Laos, Luang Prabang City. Get picked up on arrival and check-in the hotel for the first night in Laos.

Overnight in Luang Prabang:
Inclusions: Private airport pick-up/ Tour guide/ Hotel accommodation

Start your day at the lively Morning Market, immersing yourself in the vibrant local atmosphere. Explore the colorful array of vegetables, fruits, and bustling vendors that showcase the daily rhythms of life in Luang Prabang. Continue your journey with a visit to the serene Wat Mai monastery, known for its exquisite architecture and peaceful ambiance. Discover the ancient Wat Visoun temple, home to a striking stupa and a captivating collection of gilded Buddhas. Step into history at the former King's Palace, gaining insights into Luang Prabang's past and present. Marvel at the architectural wonder of Wat Xieng Thong, an iconic temple with a sweeping roof. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant before venturing to Ban Xangkhong, a charming village renowned for its exceptional arts and crafts. Witness the traditional craft-making process at Ban Xienglek, where Saa paper is produced. Take a leisurely stroll through the small roads to visit the historic Heuan Chan, a century-old Chantal wooden house. Explore the Traditional Art and Ethnology Centre (TAEC) to learn about Laos' diverse ethnic groups. Consider visiting the Ock Pop Tock Living Craft Center to witness skilled artisans creating exquisite fabrics. Climb Mount Phousi for breathtaking panoramic views of Luang Prabang and the majestic Mekong River. Spend the evening at your leisure, perhaps exploring the enchanting Night Market, known for its handmade textiles and vibrant atmosphere. Embrace the charm of Luang Prabang and treasure the memories of your visit to this captivating city.

Overnight in Luang Prabang:
Inclusions: Private airport pick-up/ Tour guide/ Hotel accommodation

Begin your day with a unique and sacred experience as you join the morning almsgiving ritual, where hundreds of monks collect alms from the local community. After breakfast, embark on a scenic forty-minute drive to Pak Ou Village, where you'll discover local crafts and then cross the mighty Mekong River by boat. Explore the remarkable Pak Ou Cave, filled with Buddhist statues and relics, offering a reverent atmosphere and breathtaking views. Following a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, take another boat ride across the Mekong River to the renowned Kuang Si Waterfall. Marvel at this stunning natural wonder, with its turquoise waters and lush jungle surroundings, perfect for a refreshing swim. Before indulging in the beauty of Kuang Si Falls, enjoy an exclusive encounter at the Free the Bears sanctuary, where rescued bears are rehabilitated. Gain insight into their important work and the conservation efforts they undertake. Continue your journey to an organic farm, where you'll have the opportunity to learn about Lao Buffalo dairy production. Experience milking a buffalo, cuddle one for a memorable photo, and savor the delightful flavors of their delicious dairy products, including incredible ice cream. As the day draws to a close, return to Luang Prabang, making a stop at the Whiskey Village to sample locally made Lao Lao spirits.

Overnight in Luang Prabang:
Inclusions: Private airport pick-up/ Tour guide/ Hotel accommodation

Indulge in your final breakfast at the hotel, savoring the delicious flavors and relishing the last moments of your stay. The remainder of the morning is yours to enjoy at leisure. Take this opportunity to explore the surroundings, soak up the ambiance of the city, or perhaps indulge in some last-minute shopping. Later, as your departure time approaches, you will be greeted by your attentive guide and driver who will accompany you on the transfer to the airport. Bid farewell to the charming city and the warm hospitality that has embraced you throughout your journey. Whether you are embarking on further adventures with Custom Asia Travel or heading back to your home, cherish the memories you've made and carry with you the spirit of this captivating destination. Goodbye Laos!

Inclusions: Private airport pick-up/ Tour guide/ Hotel accommodation