Exploring Vietnam with the Family: An 18-Day Adventure

A day dedicated to exploring Hanoi's most remarkable cultural sites and historical monuments:

• The Temple of Literature, a symbol of feudal education and one of Hanoi's iconic landmarks.

Built 1000 years ago, this Confucian temple served as an institution where royal offspring and sons of mandarins received their education. It also hosted competitions for the country's most talented students, with the winners attaining the status of scholars and senior officials in Vietnamese feudal dynasties.

• Visit Ba Dinh Square, the location of the former palace of the Indochina governor, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and his residence.
• Explore the Ethnography Museum, home to a vast collection of 25,000 ancient and contemporary artifacts that provide insights into the history of local populations.
• In the evening, enjoy a water puppet show – a distinctive feature of the Vietnamese culture.

Colorful wooden puppets are skillfully manipulated by the artists using rods and bamboo shafts underwater. It is a unique and captivating art form unique to the Northern Vietnamese tradition.

Transfer to the station for the night train to Lao Cai, capital of the northeastern mountains  .

Night in sleeping cabin.

Arrival in Lao Cai in the morning, then be welcomed by the local guide. After breakfast, drive to Bac Ha, a small and peaceful village located a hundred kilometers northeast of Sapa. Take a stroll through breathtaking landscapes of terraced rice fields and streams around Bac Ha, and visit the highly touristic villages of Di Thang, Lau Thi Ngai, Thai Rang Pho, and Na Lo, inhabited by Tay and Black Hmong minorities.

At the end of the day, settle in with a warm family from the Tay ethnic group. In the evening, enjoy a shared dinner with the family.

Overnight stay with the locals.

In accordance with the day, you may be in for a treat with a visit to a weekly market, bustling with local minority communities around Bac Ha. This is your chance to enjoy the vibrant tapestry of ethnic groups gathering at the market—trading goods, sharing news, and threads of their respective cultures.
After this cultural meeting, the journey unfolds as we transfer to Sapa, a former French colonial retreat & ancestral home of the Hmong, Dzao, and Dzay minorities.
Come afternoon, our exploration extends to the charming villages of Hang Da and Sa Seng. Amidst the karst limestone formations of Hang Da, we'll meander through quaint hamlets, witnessing the rhythm of various agricultural activities.
Continuing towards Sa Seng, a picturesque valley cradled between mountain ranges, the journey leads through lush forests and pristine waterways. Capture the essence of the landscape with photo opportunities aplenty—be it the sprawling rice fields, or vibrant tomato and cabbage farms.
As the day gracefully bows out, we return to town, where a restful night at the hotel awaits.

A day of hiking amidst the breathtaking and exotic landscapes of the Muong Hoa Valley.

Explore the ethnic villages scattered across the valley, including Y Linh Ho and Lao Chai inhabited by the Black Hmong, and Ta Van home to the Dzay minority.

Encounter local residents as they labor in the rice fields, offering insights into their daily routines and way of life.

As the day comes to a close, embark on a scenic drive back to Hanoi (approximately 5.5 to 6 hours).

Spend the night at the hotel.

Departure for Ninh Binh – land of limestone rocks, sugar loaves and rice fields flooded by rivers and lakes all year round.

Arrival in Ninh Xuan, visit Mount Mua. Climbing a white staircase of 486 stone steps to the summit, this bell-shaped mountain will offer you a panoramic view of the Tam Coc region.

A limestone mountain located near the rivers and sugar loaves of Tam Coc. In the past, it was famous for its dance performances offered to the kings of the Tran dynasty (13th-14th century).

Then transfer to Tam Coc, bike ride and relax to discover this fabulous region.

A vast landscaped area including sugar loaf rock formations, rice fields and rivers. Boat trips on the Ngo Dong River, through the sugar loaves, will allow you to fully enjoy the lush surrounding nature.

In the afternoon, enjoy a boat trip along the Ngo Dong River to explore the beauty of Tam Coc. This meandering river takes you through lush rice fields, past picturesque sugar loaf hills, and beneath the three enchanting caves nestled at the base of towering limestone peaks.

Return to Hanoi at the end of the day, overnight at the hotel.

Head out on a journey to Halong Bay, often hailed as the most stunning bay in Vietnam and one of the most enchanting landscapes in all of Asia. Step aboard  a traditional junk upon arrival and receive a warm welcome from the crew. Set sail for an unforgettable cruise across the bay, where you'll have the opportunity to explore the northern part of Halong Bay, known as Bai Tu Long:

We provide shared junks, typically smaller in size with 10 to 12 cabins, suitable for hosting around twenty passengers. Alternatively, you have the choice of selecting a private cruise on a smaller junk, offering one or a few cabins, for a truly unforgettable experience. Don't hesitate to get in touch with us if you're interested in this option.

• Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the picturesque islands and islets, each with its unique shapes resembling sails, dogs, roosters, and incense burners.
• Explore the stunning caves of Halong Bay, including Thien Canh Son, which houses stalagmites and stalactites dating back several thousand years.
• The cruise then continues to Cap La, where you can embark on a kayaking adventure and take a refreshing swim in the bay's pristine waters, weather permitting

End of the afternoon, relaxing on the upper deck of the junk.

Participation in a culinary demonstration on board, preparation of spring rolls or spring rolls.

Tasty seafood lunch and dinner.

Free evening for your personal rest and relaxation: card games, night fishing…

Night on board.

Rise at dawn to savor a truly unique spectacle: the first rays of sunlight peering over the countless sugarloaf peaks of the bay, followed by a serene Tai Chi session on the terrace.

Tai Chi, the art of deep relaxation, involves performing a series of slow, flowing, and circular movements.

Embark on a boat or kayak excursion to explore the charming fishing village of Vung Vieng, where you may have the chance to meet local residents.

Enjoy lunch on the junk, then disembark and return to Hanoi.

In the evening, catch a flight to Hue, the historic imperial city located in the heart of the country.

Spend the night in Hue.

Departure for a city tour of Hue (Hue being the last imperial capital of Vietnam 1802-1945)

• The Imperial City served as the residence and workplace for the 13 Nguyen kings for 143 years.
• Explore the mausoleum of Minh Mang, the Emperor renowned for fathering 142 children with 43 concubines.
• Visit Phu Mong village with its garden houses, an integral part of Hue's imperial heritage.
• Discover the Thien Mu Pagoda, renowned as the most beautiful and frequently visited pagoda in Hue, or experience the serenity of Tu Hieu Pagoda, where the tombs of eunuchs from the Nguyen dynasty are located. Depending on the timing, you may have the opportunity to witness a monks' prayer session.
• Explore Dong Ba Market, the largest and oldest market in Hue, where you can purchase local specialties such as conical hats and tunic dresses. 

Night at the hotel.

Start off for an enthralling walking tour through Hoi An's captivating old quarter, often hailed as 'the most charming city in Vietnam.' This journey will unveil the following must-see sites:

• The Fujian Assembly Hall, a sacred place devoted to the protective goddess of fishermen and sailors.
• Phuc Thanh Pagoda, a historic gem dating back to 1454, making it the oldest pagoda in Hoi An.
• The iconic Japanese Bridge, an architectural marvel constructed in 1593, linking the Chinese and Japanese quarters with its distinctive design.
• As you traverse ancient streets, visit museums, and admire centuries-old wooden houses, you'll soak in the city's rich heritage. Explore the vibrant silk and lantern shops and workshops of Hoi An.

Following this walking adventure, go on a scenic bike ride into Hoi An's picturesque countryside. Navigate through verdant rice fields, quaint hamlets, thriving shrimp farms, and lush vegetable gardens. The journey leads you to the charming village of Cam Chau, offering a visit to a lantern factory. Gain insights into the intricate lantern-making process, from bamboo basketry to dyeing and paper crafting, while learning about traditional techniques.
As the day gracefully comes to an end, return to Hoi An. Having experienced the timeless beauty and craftsmanship of this remarkable city, you'll carry the essence of Hoi An with you.

Enjoy a fully free day for independent exploration of Hoi An's Old Town:

• Explore shopping opportunities in the Old Town (lacquerware, crafts, etc.), particularly for tailored garments at silk shops.
• Take a bike ride to the surrounding countryside, where you'll find several traditional villages (producing vegetables, ceramics, carpentry, etc.).
• Relax on the beautiful beaches of the East Sea (Cua Dai, An Bang...), located near Hoi An.

Overnight stay at the hotel.

After a flight to Ho Chi Minh City, the capital of the south (formerly Saigon), you'll begin your exploration of the city's center, often referred to as "colonial Saigon." Here are the details:

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is the largest city in the country, with a population of around 10 million. It serves as a gateway to various regions, including the Mekong Delta, the coastline, and the southern highlands.

• A visit to Ben Thanh Market, an iconic symbol of the city bustling with local life and commerce.
• A stop at Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, both masterpieces designed according to the plans of Gustave Eiffel, showcasing the city's rich architectural heritage.
• A tour of the Headquarters of the Popular Committee of Ho Chi Minh City, the former Central Town Hall, widely regarded as the most beautiful colonial building in the city.
• A visit to the War Remnants Museum, which provides insights into the First Indochina War and the Vietnam War. The museum showcases compelling visuals depicting the futility and devastating effects of the conflicts.

 As the sightseeing tour concludes, you will be dropped off at your hotel, giving you the freedom to explore the city at night.

Depart for the Mekong Delta, a unique region that combines both land and water, situated in the southernmost part of Vietnam.

The Mekong River, originating in the immense Himalayan range, traverses five upstream countries in Southeast Asia (China, Burma, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos) before finally flowing into the Pacific Ocean within Vietnamese territory. This river has sculpted a vast and fertile delta in the southern region of the country, famously known as the "Mekong Delta."

Upon arrival in Ben Tre, a significant town located in the heart of the northern branches of the river, embark on a boat journey along the waterways to reach Mo Cay, a less-visited rural area celebrated for its coconut trade and the production of various coconut-based products like coconuts, coconut threads, and activated coconut charcoal.

You'll have the option of a bike ride or a ride on a Xe loi (motorized cycle) through the lush green island, densely adorned with coconut plantations. This route, away from the hustle and bustle of mass tourism, leads you along narrow paths beneath the shade of coconut trees, creating a particularly picturesque landscape. Make stops at local farms to observe the production of sweets and coconut brooms.

Continue your adventure with a journey in a small rowing boat, meandering through canals lined with water palm trees, providing you with a glimpse into the daily life of the delta's residents. Visit Mr. Van's traditional house and savor local specialties crafted by his wife, including coconut jam, honey tea, and pollen. You'll also have the opportunity to engage with the warm-hearted local population, fostering memorable encounters.

In the afternoon, drive to Giong Trom, passing through coconut plantations and numerous canals that connect to the mighty Mekong River.

Settle into a charming lodge situated on the banks of the Ham Luong River, where you'll have some free time to relax in a serene environment and enjoy the possibility of watching the sunset.

Spend the night at the lodge.

ise early and embark on a boat journey along the Mekong. Your destination is the vibrant Cai Rang floating market, a captivating and colorful spectacle where a multitude of boats are laden with fruits, vegetables, and various goods for their lively commercial exchanges. This unique "river trade" offers a glimpse into the distinctive way of life of the Mekong region's inhabitants.

After exploring the Cai Rang floating market, disembark for a visit to the An Binh land market, located just opposite Cai Rang. This visit provides an intriguing opportunity to draw comparisons between the bustling floating market and the more traditional land-based market.

In the afternoon, return to Ho Chi Minh City.

Spend the night at your hotel.

Following breakfast, embark on a journey to Mui Ne, famed for its pristine white sand beaches hugged by swaying coconut palms and stunning orangish sand dunes.

Check-in awaits at a charming beachfront hotel, where you'll unwind and settle into the serene ambiance of Mui Ne.

Two completely free days to rest in Mui Ne. Relax on the sandy beaches, swim in the crystal clear waters of the eastern sea.

Free walks on the orange sand dunes by the sea: "North Africa in Vietnam."

Possibility of practicing water sports (motorcycle, surfing, canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing, ...)

Night in hotel.

Free morning to rest in Mui Ne.

In the afternoon return by road to Ho Chi Minh City and transfer to the airport for the return flight.

Note: Possibility of doing this circuit in a south - north direction. Please contact us for this option.

It's the end of our family trip presentation to Vietnam in 18 days! See you next time!