Vietnam Family Adventures

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. Why not start your first day in Hanoi by filling your stomach with some local dishes? If your taste buds need direction, our guide can introduce to you some local-favourite eateries.

Day 2: Hanoi - City & Street food 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 and his traditional stilt house to learn about the inspiring legacy of ‘Uncle Ho’, Vietnam’s beloved former leader. 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. Later, lunch will be served at a local restaurant.

Afternoon:
You continue the visit to Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, which focuses on the 54 officially recognized ethnic groups in Vietnam. Returning to the city centre, we’ll have a cyclo ride around the Old Quarter, passing by Hoan Kiem Lake and the local life before enjoying the traditional Water Puppet Show. Afterwards, it’s time to dive into the vibrant street food scene of Hanoi. At quaint eateries with only a few plastic tables and stools, we’ll savor dishes that have earned praise even from Michelin inspectors. From the renowned dish of ‘Bun Cha’ to exotic yet delicious ‘sweet soup’, and even freshly poured ‘draught beer’ delivered daily on motorbikes, each bite and sip tells the lively story of Hanoi’s culinary rhythm.

Overnight in Hanoi

Day 3: Lan Ha Bay - Luxury cruise trip

Morning:
Let’s swap city bustle for serene seas today as we’re off on an exciting journey to Lan Ha Bay. After a cozy ride in a private car to the port, you’ll check in and board a luxurious cruise, ready to reveal the untouched beauty of this UNESCO-listed natural wonder. Once the captain sets sail, it’s time to fill your tummy with a delicious lunch and feast your eyes with odd-shaped limestone pillars and hidden coves along the way.

Afternoon:
A boat awaits to cruise you 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 formed through millions of years. After that, you will be transferred to Tra Bau, tranquil area with emerald waters where you can enjoy a refreshing swim. When the sun sets, head back to the cruise for a breathtaking view from the top deck, followed by a traditional Vietnamese cooking class. Conclude the day with a delightful dinner and an overnight stay amidst the exotic landscape of Lan Ha bay.

Overnight on cruise.

Day 4: Lan Ha Bay - Ao Ech

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. Then, the cruise’ll 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:
It’s time to say goodbye to Hanoi for the flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival, our friendly guide and driver will warmly welcome and transfer you to Hoi An. You will have free time to enjoy the town afterward.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Day 5: Hoi An - Fishing village & Ancient town

Morning:
Today we’re heading out bright and early to Duy Hai Fishing Village. You’ll witness the bustling activity of hard-working fishermen unloading their whole night’s catch, while merchants hustle for the freshest picks of fish. Dive deeper into the village, it’s time to discover the secrets behind local fish specialties like dried fish and fish sauce. Head to our next stop, Bay Mau Coconut Forest, where we glide through the serene Hoi An riverside on a basket boat. You can try some thrilling boat dancing or shop for beautiful handicrafts made from coconut leaves. Take a rest at a local home for a soothing foot massage and lend a hand in preparing your own traditional lunch.

Afternoon:
Return to Hoi An Ancient Town and dive into exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site. As you wander through the charming alleys, you’ll discover the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, the Chinese Assembly Hall, Tan Ky Ancient House, and the bustling ChinaTown. Conclude the day with a scenic sunset cruise on Thu Bon River – perfect for capturing stunning photos of Hoi An.

Overnight in Hoi An

Day 6: Hoi An - Free & Easy

Today is all yours to freely explore the beauty of Hoi An. Do you need some inspiration? These suggestions might be helpful for you:
– Why not bring back home a new wardrobe? Hoi An’s talented ateliers offer custom-made garments at affordable prices, tailored just for you in a matter of days.
– For all beach lovers, head to An Bang Beach or Cua Dai Beach, with white sand and crystal clear water (Make sure to only swim at areas with lifeguards!)
– When night falls, the best way to see the whole old town is from a boat on Hoai River. If you want a wish to come true, light up your paper lantern with a candle and release it into the water, just like the locals believe.
– And for dinner, let’s try some local cuisine. Hoi An is truly a food paradise! From famous banh mi to delicious ‘Com ga’, ‘Mi Quang’, or ‘Banh xeo’, there’s something for everyone, including vegan and Halal options.

Overnight in Hoi An

Day 7: Hoi An – Lantern-making class

Morning:
We’ll start our day with a visit to the home of a local lantern craftsman. You will have a hands-on workshop to learn the traditional art of lantern making. Learn how to bend the frame and select the cloth to craft your own lantern from scratch. It is the perfect souvenir for you to show off your craftsmanship to your friends and family.

Afternoon:
You will be transferred to the airport for the flight to Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), previously known as Saigon. HCMC is a dynamic commercial hub with modern skyscrapers and lively streets. Yet amid the modernity, you can easily find serene pagodas and temples, where the smell of incense fills the air with peace. Upon arrival, our friendly guide and driver will warmly welcome and take you to your hotel in the city center. Once settling in, you will have a chance to explore HCMC at your leisure.

Overnight in HCMC

Day 8: Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnels & Jeep tour

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 Titov Island, a small limestone island with one of the best sandy beaches in Ha Long Bay. You can immerse yourself in emerald water or hike to the top for stunning panoramic views. Afterwards, take a moment to unwind on deck and soak in the breathtaking landscape of the Ha Long 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 St. Joseph’s Cathedral 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.

Meals included: Brunch
Overnight in Hanoi

Day 9: Mekong Delta - Ben Tre

Morning:
Journeying out of the city, we head to Ben Tre in Mekong Delta, famously known as ‘Vietnam’s coconut kingdom’! Did you know it produces 40% of the country’s coconuts? On arrival, we’ll have a ride on a motorized rickshaw to discover how the locals have been subsisting on coconut for generations. Our first stop is a cottage industry in Phong Nam, where you’ll see coconut shells being separated to make charcoal and coconut flesh being used for delicious desserts. Then, it’s time for a boat ride along Chet Say Canal, watching coconuts being transferred by boat while we’re sipping fresh coconut water. Next up, we’ll visit Nhon Thanh, famous for its traditional mat weaving from sedge plants. You can even try your hand at making a mat with the help of a craftsman. Savor your lunch at a local restaurant filled with Mekong specialties.

Afternoon:
We’ll hop on a sampan boat to glide through coconut groves along the maze of small canals, a hallmark of the Mekong Delta. You can also test your balance on the monkey bridge, named for the playful postures travelers make while crossing these bamboo poles. As the day comes to a close, we’ll head back to HCMC.

Overnight in HCMC

Day 10: 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!