Vietnam Family Discovery

Day 1: Hanoi - Arrival

Welcome your family 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? Did you know that Hanoi is the birthplace of Pho, the world’s favorite noodle soup? If your taste buds need direction, our guide can introduce to you the best Pho eateries in town.

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 Quarter, 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!

We recommend checking out the water puppet shows – a delight for both young and old. This classic art form has been entertaining audiences for generations, promising an authentic cultural experience for your family!

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight in Hanoi

Day 3: Ha Long Bay - Luxury cruise trip

Morning:

Let’s swap city bustle for serene seas today! This morning, we’re off on an exciting journey to Ha Long 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:

As the cruise approaches the heart of Ha Long, a variety of thrilling activities are waiting for your family. You can go kayaking for a closer look at the majestic limestone formations, or simply jump into the emerald waters for a refreshing swim. When the sun sets, you’ll 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. And for those craving even more fun, how about joining the cruise staff for midnight squid fishing? Who knows, we might just reel in some squid for a late-night party!

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight in Ha Long Bay

Day 4: Ha Long Bay - Surprise Cave

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, you’ll be gently transferred to Sung Sot Cave, or Surprise Cave, one of Ha Long Bay’s largest caverns adorned with magnificent stalactites and stalagmites. After the cave exploration, save this time to soak in the panoramic bay views as we cruise back to the shore.

Afternoon:

Once we’re back in Hanoi, depending on the flight schedule, you’ll head to Da Nang in Central Vietnam. Our guide and driver will be there to welcome you and let your family enjoy a bit of downtime in this ‘best living city’ in Vietnam. Finally, our driver will depart for Hoi An, where you’ll be staying for the next two days.

Meals included: Brunch

Overnight in Hanoi

Day 5: Hoi An - Heritage walking tour

Morning:

Lace up your shoes tightly because today, we’re off on a walking tour to explore the ancient town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. 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 wander through its streets, we’ll see a beautiful blend of local and international cultures in 1,107 well-preserved wooden buildings. Our guide will lead us to some iconic spots in town like the Japanese Covered Bridge, Chinese Assembly Hall, and Tan Ky Ancient House.

Afternoon:

You’ll have some free time to explore the riverside shopping paradise. Take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, experience the sights and sounds of the local vendors, and pick up some souvenirs to bring back home. Don’t hesitate to ask our guide for recommendations on the best local snacks.

For dinner, we’ll join a small cooking class where your family can gather and learn how to make some of Hoi An’s famous dishes. After savoring your meal, you can freely enjoy the beauty of Hoi An by night, with thousands of glowing lanterns lighting up the sky.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight in Hanoi

Day 6: Hoi An - Cycling tour

Morning:

Today, let’s hop on our bikes and explore the charming countryside of Hoi An! After fueling up with a delicious breakfast, we’ll pedal along peaceful paths, passing local markets, schools, villages, and vast rice fields. It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience the tranquil side of Hoi An and learn about its simple way of life. Yay, we’ve arrived! Here we are at the breathtaking An Bang beach, boasting crystal-clear waters and powdery white sands.

Afternoon:

The afternoon is all yours to relax and soak up the tropical beach atmosphere. You can ask our guide for an optional kayak adventure on the nearby De Vong river, or simply stroll around town and take a refreshing dip in the sea. Later, we’ll head back to Hoi An for some relaxation before catching our overnight train to Nha Trang from Da Nang station.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight on train

Day 7: Nha Trang – Whale Island Arrival

Morning:

Choo-choo! Wake up and peek out the window – you won’t want to miss the sun rising slowly over the ocean horizon. And don’t forget your camera to capture the lively morning scene of the local people along the railway tracks. Once you arrive at Nha Trang station, our driver will take you to the tropical paradise of Whale Island! The next three days are all about this untouched, private getaway in the famous Van Phong Bay of Nha Trang. You’ll stay at the only eco-resort on the island, escaping urban chaos and diving into the beauty of nature.

Afternoon:

With waves lapping at your feet, there’s a ton of water fun waiting for you on Whale Island. But let’s take it easy today. How about some sunbathing, a refreshing swim, or simply wandering around the resort, soaking up the soothing sounds of swaying coconut trees and the salty breeze?

Meals included: Lunch, Dinner

Overnight on Whale Island

Day 8: Nha Trang - Whale Island Free & Easy

Morning:

Did you know that Whale Island has been featured in top publications like Forbes and CNN as a ‘Must-Visit Diving Destination’? So why not make today all about exploring life beneath the waves? Feel free to ask the resort about their scuba diving or snorkeling services (exclusive).

Once you’re all set, follow the boat to the protected dive site and then jump into the crystal-clear ocean. You’ll be absolutely amazed by the stunning coral reefs down there – vibrantly colorful and well-preserved. Just remember, admire them from a distance and resist the urge to touch!

Afternoon:

You’ve splashed around all morning, so let’s have some beach fun for this afternoon like gathering for a volleyball match or practicing yoga on the sand. Or if you’re feeling chill, simply enjoy the sunset with some cocktails at the beach bar.

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

Overnight on Whale Island

Day 9: Whale Island - Whale Island Free & Easy

Morning:

For your last day on Whale Island, we recommend exploring the amazing ecosystem just behind the resort. You can ask the receptionist for a map, then follow the trails for a little trekking adventure. After wandering through the forest, surrounded by thousands of trees and the cheerful chirping of birds, you’ll eventually reach the highest point on Whale Island. From up there, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of Van Phong Bay. It’s totally worth your effort!

Afternoon:

Take it easy and experience the vibes of Whale Island at your own pace. It’s the perfect time to gather with your family and enjoy some quality moments together.

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

Overnight on Whale Island

Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City - Free & Easy

It’s time to say goodbye to Whale Island 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.

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 HCMC at your leisure.

Meals included: Breakfast

Overnight in HCMC

Day 11: Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnels & City tour

Morning:

Your day begins with an incredible journey to Cu Chi Tunnels. Just like stepping into a real-life history book, we’ll explore just a small part of this 250 km underground network built by Vietnamese back in the wartime. Can you believe these massive tunnels were not only war shelters but also kitchens, hospitals, command centers and secret storages for food and weapons? Get some adrenaline as we crawl through the tunnels and witness all kinds of guns and traps. Along the way, you’ll even hear incredible stories about the Viet Cong guerrillas who lived, fought, or even sacrificed here during the Vietnam War. It’ll make you appreciate the peace we enjoy today even more.

Afternoon:

Let’s head back to the city center, and our guide will take you to some of the most iconic spots in HCMC! We’ll visit Saigon River, 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.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight in HCMC

Day 12: 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. When we arrive at Cai Be, we’ll hop onto a boat and cruise over to Tan Phong Island. Grab a bike and pedal along tranquil village paths to know more about the local way of life. Along the way, we can even stop by some handicraft workshops to see talented locals weaving water hyacinths. Then, it’s back on the boat to cross the mighty Mekong River to An Binh Island, where we’ll meet our homestay host and indulge in a traditional lunch packed with mouthwatering Mekong Delta specialties.

Afternoon:

Once our bellies are happily full, it’s time to explore the homestay orchard. You can wander around, picking seasonal fruits straight from the trees and sipping on tea while enjoying some lively traditional music. And for dinner, get ready to roll up your sleeves and join the host family in preparing some delicious local dishes. We’ll gather around the spacious veranda overlooking the garden to savor our food together.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight in Mekong Delta

Day 13: Ho Chi Minh City - Free & Easy

Morning:

Your second day at Mekong Delta starts with a walk along the village. You’ll be welcome to some local cottage industries and taste some freshly made rice paper, coconut candy, and pop-rice right from the source. Next, we journey by sampan, a traditional low-riding wooden boat and enjoy being paddled slowly along the maze of small canals. We’ll make a stop at the brick kilns village to witness skilled artisans crafting beautiful pottery from clay. Along the way, don’t miss the chance to see how catfish are farmed right on the Mekong River! Finally, we’ll gather at Vinh Long shore and head to the bustling center market, enjoying the vibrant trading scene of the locals before returning to HCMC.

Afternoon:

Now, 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. And why not make the most of your last evening in Vietnam by indulging in some local delicacies or having a cozy family gathering?

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight in HCMC

Day 14: Ho Chi Minh - 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!

Meals included: Breakfast