Vietnam Luxury Beach Vacation

Day 1: Hanoi - Arrival

Welcome to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. Vibrant, inviting, and delightful – the city reveals itself with your first glimpse of scooters whizzing through the streets. Yet in contrast to the city’s modern tempo, the echoes of history still resonate in many architectural sites, reflecting the eras of dynasties and French influence.

No matter your flight schedule, our friendly guide and driver will warmly welcome you upon arrival and take you to your hotel in the city center. Once settling in, you will have a chance to explore Hanoi at your leisure. While no meals have been planned for today, why not fill your stomach with some local dishes? If your taste buds need direction, our guide can introduce to you a Vietnamese restaurant in Michelin Guide.

Overnight in Hanoi

Day 2: Hanoi - City tour

Morning:
Today, let’s embark on a journey through Hanoi’s fascinating history and rich culture. We’ll start at Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum to delve into the inspiring legacy of ‘Uncle Ho’, Vietnam’s beloved former leader. Next, a visit to his traditional stilt house nearby will provide insights into his presidential years during wartime. Following our exploration is the unique architecture of One Pillar Pagoda, shaped like a lotus blossom. Our guide then takes you to the Temple of Literature, hailed as Vietnam’s first university, with doctoral steles dating back 1000 years.

Afternoon:
We’ll hop aboard a cyclo and meander through the bustling streets of the Old Quarters, passing by vibrant shops and street food stalls. Our journey concludes at Hoan Kiem Lake, home to Ngoc Son Temple on Jade Island, accessed via the iconic The Huc Bridge. Afterwards, the day is yours to explore!

Meals: Breakfast
Overnight in Hanoi

Day 3: Ha Long Bay - Seaplane flight

Morning:
After breakfast, we’ll head to the airport for a seaplane to Ha Long Bay. In just half an hour, the UNESCO natural wonder unfolds its beauty right before your eyes. Upon arrival, a speedboat tender will be waiting to transfer you to your luxurious cruise. Once the captain sets sail, it’s time to savor a delicious lunch and feast your eyes with odd-shaped limestone pillars and hidden coves along the way.

Afternoon:
Reaching Cat Ba Island in Lan Ha Bay, we will step on land to visit Viet Hai Village, nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by jungle-cladded mountains. Exploring this valley by bicycle offers fascinating insights into the secluded but peaceful life of the local inhabitants. When the sun sets, you’ll return to the cruise for a mesmerizing view from the top deck, followed by a traditional Vietnamese cooking class. Conclude the day with a fine dining course meal and an overnight stay amidst the exotic landscape of Lan Ha Bay.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Lan Ha Bay

Day 4: Lan Ha Bay - Cat Ba National Park

Morning:
Waking up to the melody of waves lapping against the cruise, your day begins with a Tai-Chi session on deck and a warm breakfast after. Today we return to Cat Ba Island for a hiking outing in Cat Ba National Park. Discovering this UNESCO biosphere reserve, it’s your chance to get to know a variety of rare species. Go further to explore Trung Trang Cave and marvel at its magnificent stalactites and stalagmites. Returning to your cruise for lunch

Afternoon:
Make the most of this unhurried afternoon at your own pace with options including relaxing or swimming at a natural beach or kayaking through the calm water. And why not treat your tired body to spa treatments, a steam bath, or a sauna on board after a whole day of walking. As the sun sets, we’ll end up our day with a luxury course meal and an overnight stay under the twinkling night sky.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Lan Ha Bay

Day 5: Lan Ha Bay - Ao Ech

Morning:
Waking up to the sunlight streaming through your windows, your day begins with a Tai-Chi session on deck and a warm breakfast after. Then, the cruise will transfer you to Ao Ech for some sightseeing thrills, including swimming and kayaking. Fun fact: this is the very spot where the Hollywood blockbuster movie ‘Kong: Skull Island’ was filmed! Afterwards, take a moment to unwind on deck and soak in the breathtaking panoramic views of the Lan Ha Bay as we cruise back to the shore.

Afternoon:
After settling in your city centre hotel, it’s time to explore Hanoi at your leisure! You can freely spend your afternoon visiting any sights you didn’t get a chance to previously, like Vietnam Museum of Ethnology or Hoa Lo Prison. We’ll help you conclude your day with a world-famous water puppet show – a delight for both young and old, promising an authentic cultural experience.

Included meals: Brunch
Overnight in Hanoi

Day 6: Hoi An - Hoi An Ancient Town

Morning:
You’ll take a short flight to Da Nang and then head straight to your next destination, Hoi An. Once you arrive in Hoi An, shake off that morning travel fatigue and treat yourself to a delicious traditional Hoi An lunch.

Afternoon:
After lunch, your tour guide will take you on a cyclo ride around the World Heritage-listed Ancient Town. Did you know Hoi An was once a bustling trading port in the 15th century, connecting Vietnam with the world? That’s why as we go through its streets, we’ll see a beautiful blend of local and international cultures in 1,107 well-preserved wooden buildings. Our tour highlights include iconic landmarks such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Chinese Assembly Hall, Tan Ky Ancient House, and the bustling ChinaTown. The rest of the day will be on your own as the evening invites you to savor its magic beneath the gentle glow of lanterns.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight in Hoi An

Day 7: Hoi An - Tra Que Village

Morning:
Today’s your chance to explore the countryside life of Hoi An. You can choose between a leisurely bike ride or a comfy ride in a private car to visit Tra Que Vegetable Village. Did you know this 400-year-old farm village actually supplies organic veggies for all Hoi An and its neighboring areas? Along your way, take in the agricultural rhythms of Tra Que with lush rice fields, meandering rivers, and even water buffaloes chilling in the grass. Once arrival, you’ll be greeted by the expansive, healthy vegetable garden—a testament to the generations of local farmers who have perfected the art of cultivation. Then, head to a local family’s home for a cooking class, where you’ll prepare your own traditional Hoi An lunch using freshly picked products from the village.

Afternoon:
After a morning filled with many outdoor activities, why not take some time to relax and recharge your energy? You can treat yourself massage and foot bath treatments that are available all along the old streets of Hoi An. And don’t overlook the talented ateliers – they can craft exquisite custom-made garments for you just in a matter of days.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight in Hoi An

Day 8: Hoi An - Free & Easy

Explore Hoi An at your own rhythm. Do you need some inspiration? These suggestions might be helpful for you:
– Have you ever heard about the traditional lantern crafting in Hoi An? It’s been going strong for over 400 years now! With over 30 workshops, you can easily find a place to make your own lantern and be a part of this rich tradition.
– Watching the sunset from a cruise on the Thu Bon River is also a fantastic experience. Gliding along the heart of Hoi An, you’ll witness a masterpiece of nature and culture unfolding before your eyes.
– No beach vacation in Hoi An would be complete without relaxing on the pristine shores of An Bang and Cua Dai. The expansive stretches of white sand and blue waters provide the perfect getaway for beach lovers like you to enjoy. (Make sure to only swim at areas with lifeguards!)

Meals included: Breakfast
Overnight in Hoi An

Day 9: Quy Nhon - Luxury train

Morning:
Wake up early for today because we’ll head to Da Nang Station for a six-hour luxury railway journey to Quy Nhon. From your window seat, witness the passage through ancient ruins of the Champa Kingdom, vast expanses of rice fields, picturesque beaches, and glimpses of local life along the tracks. You’ll be served a three-course gourmet meal along with free-flow drinks and snacks, and even a 15-min massage treatment.

Afternoon:
In contrast to crowded coastal cities filled with tourists, Quy Nhon is a true hidden gem in Vietnam, promises a tranquil retreat for those seeking relaxation. Upon arrival at Dieu Tri Station, our driver will warmly welcome and escort you to your luxury beach resort. How about spending the rest of your day with some sunbathing, a refreshing swim, or simply wandering around your stay, soaking up the sounds of swaying coconut trees and the salty breeze?

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight in Quy Nhon

Day 10: Quy Nhon - Free & Easy

Quy Nhon offers more than just pristine beaches; it boasts a variety of fascinating landscapes waiting for your exploration. Allow us to extend our recommendations:
– If you’re eager to discover the vibrant marine ecosystem, simply inquire with your resort for snorkeling excursions. Follow their lead as you get on a boat journey to the secluded islands just beyond the shoreline. Equipped with snorkels and fins, you can dive in the crystalline waters where vibrant corals and playful marine life abound throughout the year.
– Quy Nhon is also home to historic ruins dating back to the ancient Kingdom of Champa. Just two kilometers from the city center, the Twin Towers (or Thap Doi) are the most accessible Cham sites, built in the late 12th to early 13th century. Their architectural style shares similarities with the Angkor sites and reflects the exchanges between Champa and the Khmer Kingdom.

Included meals: Breakfast
Overnight in Quy Nhon

Day 11: Quy Nhon - Private beach dinner

Morning:
Begin the day by savoring the breathtaking sunrise, casting its golden glow over the expansive ocean and quaint fishing boats. You have the leisure to unwind, whether through the pages of a good book or a soothing massage at the resort.

Afternoon:
The day concludes with a memorable highlight: a romantic candlelit dinner awaits you on the beach. Against the backdrop of a sunset painting the sky with vibrant hues, there are only you and your beloved ones savoring a delicious course meal featuring the finest seafood from the ocean of Quy Nhon.

Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight in Quy Nhon

Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City - City Tour

Morning:
It’s time to say goodbye to Nha Trang for the flight to Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC). Just one generation ago, HCMC, previously known as Saigon, was a war zone. But now, the city has transformed to become a dynamic commercial hub with modern skyscrapers and lively streets. Yet it hasn’t forgotten its past! If you’re eager to learn more about the city’s history, there are plenty of museums filled with artifacts, stories and memories.

Afternoon:
Our guide and driver will take you to some of the most iconic spots in HCMC! We’ll visit Ben Thanh Market, the Reunification Palace, and Notre Dame Cathedral. Each stop will give you a taste of the diverse culture, the rich history and the true essence of HCMC. Yet, the highlight of your day awaits in the evening! You’ll embark on a luxurious cruise along the Saigon River, savoring a fine Eurasian dinner. Conclude your day with breathtaking views of the city skyline while enjoying the gentle breeze on the deck’s cocktail lounge.

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight in HCMC

Day 13: Mekong Delta - Village boat trip

Morning:
Journeying out of the city, we head to the lush countryside of the Mekong Delta, often called ‘Vietnam’s rice bowl’ because of its abundance of rice paddies, fruit orchards, and flower gardens. On arrival at Cai Be, you’ll hop onto your private sampan for a leisure ride on Mekong Delta’s waterways. Gliding through the maze of small canals, it’s your chance to fully understand the simple yet heartwarming lifestyle of the locals. You’ll be welcome to some local cottage industries and taste some freshly made coconut candy and pop-rice right from the source. Lunch is served in an exquisite colonial-style villa set in a lush tropical garden by the river, with a lot of Mekong specialties.

Afternoon:
After lunch, get back on board and continue your cruise towards Vinh Long. We’ll stop by An Binh Island to visit a local orchard, picking seasonal fruits straight from the trees and sipping on tea while enjoying some lively traditional music. Continue crossing Mekong River to a hundred-year-old brick kiln, where you can see the whole process of traditional brickmaking and pottery crafting up close. As the day winds down, we’ll hit the road to Can Tho, the heart of Mekong Delta.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight in Can Tho

Day 14: Mekong Delta - Floating market

Morning:
Time to wake up bright and early to catch the vibrant Cai Rang Floating Market before the sun fully rises. You’ll board a sampan boat and cruise through the lively trading scene of Cai Rang where vendors crowd together with their goods piled high on boats. As the sun rises, you can easily see sellers showcasing their offerings on long poles to attract customers. Why not savor a bowl of hu tieu right onboard, just like Masterchef Gordon Ramsey did and absolutely adored? After the floating market, continue on the river to a noodle oven, where friendly locals will teach you the art of making fresh rice noodles. Our final stop is the Binh Thuy Ancestral House, offering a glimpse into the lives of Mekong’s wealthy merchant families in the 19th century. Say goodbye to the tranquil lifestyle of Mekong Delta as we return to HCMC.

Afternoon:
It’s time for some free-spirited exploration! You can spend your afternoon visiting any sights you didn’t get a chance to previously, like the ChinaTown, the War Remnant Museum, or the Central Post Office.

Meals included: Breakfast
Overnight in Da Nang

Day 15: Ho Chi Minh CIty - Departure

Your journey across iconic destinations in Vietnam comes to its end. After breakfast today, you’ll get the morning to yourself – no scheduled activities. Whenever you’re ready to go, our attentive driver will be ready to take you to the airport, ensuring a seamless transition for your departing flight. Until our paths cross again on your next adventure, safe travels!

Inlcuded meals: Breakfast