Great journey from north to south and beach stay on the island of Phu Quoc. 20 d and 19 n.

Trip Description

Accomodation

Stay program

• day 1

  Arrival in Hanoi - free day

  Your flight lands at Hanoi International Airport. After collecting your luggage, you will be greeted by our driver. He will take you to the hotel, located in the historic center. This is an opportunity for you to discover the outskirts of Hanoi, then the urban landscapes, the dense traffic depending on the time, as well as the narrow and charming alleys of the old quarter. A typical atmosphere: small shops, the daily activities of the locals, temples, long houses, colonial buildings... The discovery begins here! For this first day, we suggest you immerse yourself at your own pace, according to how you feel at the moment. Maybe you will need a bit of rest, some time for yourself, or maybe you won't be able to resist the temptation to get lost in the alleys around the hotel: this is free time for you! If it is not yet 2pm, you can leave your luggage and go for a walk or get something to eat while waiting for your room to be ready.

• day 2

  Hanoi - City tour

  

  After having your breakfast at the hotel, the city tour begins with Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple. It is a geographical landmark for all newcomers! From there, let's go for a cyclo ride through the colonial district and its famous buildings: the opera house, the post office, Saint Joseph's Cathedral, up to the Long Bien Bridge which crosses the Red River. This is a characteristic construction that will remind you of a famous Parisian monument… Finally, head to the Dong Xuan central market to discover the spices. On foot, we will walk through other lively alleys. If we have time left, we will stop at the Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest in Hanoi! And if you are interested in the 4-ton statue of the genius Huyen Thien Tran Vu, head to the Quan Thanh Taoist temple! Finally, let's get back in the car to visit one of our favorite sites in Hanoi, the Temple of Literature. This site served as a university since the 11th century! In the afternoon, we will go to the gardens of the former governor's palace. We will also discover Ho Chi Minh's stilt house. Another surprising building next: the One Pillar Pagoda! Before a free dinner in Hanoi, we suggest you attend a water puppet theater show, a centuries-old artistic tradition of Vietnam. Night of day 2 at the hotel in Hanoi.

• day 3

  Hanoi - Vu Linh and Thac Ba Lake

  

  In the morning, we take the road to Vu Linh, crossing a region marked by the Indochina War, near the city of Tuyen Quang. The Vietnamese government had established a headquarters there until 1954. Nowadays, it is a land covered with tea plantations as far as the eye can see, offering great photo opportunities! Then, a pleasant moment of relaxation awaits you: we will take a boat ride on Thac Ba Lake, a peaceful site dotted with islands (it is said there are 1300 of them). It is a freshwater reservoir built in 1963, and swimming is possible there. On one of the shores stands the beautiful stilt house of a family from the Dao ethnic group with white trousers. Upstairs, there is a common room where you will have your meals and sleep comfortably. Everything will be done to please you in this green haven. The traditional houses, made entirely of wood, are very beautiful, bordered by rice fields and small gardens... The villagers are very friendly, so don't be shy: sometimes our travelers play a game of volleyball with the young people, take part in preparations or help with small tasks. Your curiosity will be rewarded.

• day 4

  Vu Linh - Nghia Lo

  We leave the family after breakfast and drive towards the town of Nghia Lo. The mountain passes are crossed one by one, offering us spectacular views of the northern mountains. We turn off before Nghia Lo towards the very beautiful H’mong village of Suoi Giang. The H’mong ethnic minority lives here at an altitude of 1000 m. They cultivate the steep land and practice a bit of livestock farming. Here, tea cultivation catches our attention: some tea plants are centuries old and are listed as National Heritage for the quality and unique flavor of their leaves. We then travel the twenty or so kilometers separating us from Nghia Lo to meet the family who will host us tonight, the White Thais. The environment is very pleasant in this small plain surrounded by mountains. We will be able to taste typical dishes of the region, discover the villagers’ way of life, and finally have a good night’s sleep! Night in a traditional Thai stilt house.

• day 5

  Nghia Lo - Mu Cang Chai

  

  At dawn, you discover the landscape, the rice fields, under a different light. We have breakfast and set off to explore the surrounding White Thai villages. The wooden stilt houses, the children walking to school, the elders strolling along the paths or watching the comings and goings of the neighbors... It's an opportunity for us to interact with the locals. We leave our countryside spot to discover the central market of Nghia Lo. It's a chance to learn more about the sometimes surprising culinary traditions in this region... The handicrafts are also interesting, especially the bamboo items. Get your cameras ready, the next stage will be a feast for your eyes! We travel along the "photographers' road" that separates us from the town of Mu Cang Chai. Breathtaking landscapes unfold before your eyes: rice terraces, traditional villages, impressive panoramas... We will have lunch in Tu Le, whose specialty is a highly prized sticky rice, then admire a fascinating landscape from the terrace of a café a little further on. To finish, how about a walk? A path will lead us to the village of La Pan Tan, passing through small villages and terraced fields. It's an opportunity to meet villagers in their daily activities! This walk is extremely rejuvenating: you are immersed in the beauty and serenity of the place, the kindness of the people, their smiles. We arrive in La Pan Tan at the end of the afternoon. Overnight at the hotel in La Pan Tan.

• day 6

  Mu Cang Chai - Sapa

  Today, after breakfast, we travel through the northern mountains towards the famous Sapa. This is the territory of the Dao and H’mong. On the other side, a greener area, cultivated by the Black Thai, awaits us. A walk is worthwhile in Than Uyên: the warm inhabitants will be delighted to introduce you to their still very traditional way of life. Then, we get back in the car towards a mountain range called Hoang Lien and towards the Tram Ton pass, which, at 2,000 m altitude, signals our approach to the city of Sapa. This altitude allows us to have an incredible view of the surroundings! We discover the Silver Waterfall: 100 meters of waterfalls, it’s impressive. Once in Sapa, a walk allows us to discover the city’s points of interest: its lake, the shopping streets, the places to relax… The highest peak in Vietnam is here: Fansipan, which rises to 3,143 m altitude. Finally, a bit of rest. Overnight at the hotel in Sapa.

• day 7

  Sapa - Bac Ha

  

  We have breakfast, then continue towards the Bac Ha district, known for its markets bringing together various ethnic groups. We arrive there in the early afternoon and meet our hosts. On foot, we explore the surrounding countryside and the villages where the Flower H’mong and the Phu La live. It’s an opportunity to discover new types of dwellings. We help with the preparation of dinner and celebrate our meeting with a glass of local corn alcohol. After dinner, overnight stay with a local family in a stilt house.

• day 8

  Bac Ha - Ethnic market - Hanoi

  On Wednesdays and weekends, the locals gather at the largest market in the region in Bac Ha! You will find the Flower H’mong, who are the most numerous, but they also mingle with the Nung, the Phu La, the Dao, and the Tay... It’s an opportunity to admire and compare traditional outfits, all hand-embroidered and colorful. You can even purchase some pieces here. What else can you find at the Bac Ha market? Everything is organized by sector: costumes and fabrics on one side, with ornaments; then kitchenware; spices, fruits and vegetables, and animals, meat. On the right, as you arrive, there are stalls for eating. We will have lunch in a local restaurant after strolling through this very lively market. Next comes the time to close our loop to the North! We will head back to Hanoi, arriving in the late afternoon. Overnight at the hotel in old Hanoi.

• day 9

  Hanoi - Ninh Binh

  

  This morning, we head towards the city of Ninh Binh. We will visit the giant Bai Dinh pagoda, the most impressive in Southeast Asia. You will be amazed by the size and beauty of this Buddhist site, which stretches over 500 ha! In the center, the giant Buddha, made of 100 tons of bronze lacquered with gold leaf, awaits you, along with many other wonders. By bicycle, we will go to the Bich Dong pagoda via paths winding between the stone blocks. This is a setting featured in the film "Indochina" with Catherine Deneuve! Next, we will take a boat ride in a poetic and peaceful setting. The route literally takes us through mountains! This site is nicknamed "the terrestrial Halong Bay" because of the famous karst rock peaks found here. We sail on the river, slowly, to fully savor this moment! Overnight at the hotel in Tam Coc.

• day 10

  Ninh Binh - Cat Ba Island - Lan Ha Bay (southern area of Halong Bay)

  

  We leave early for Hai Phong to reach Cat Ba Island. The Lan Ha Bay area, south of Ha Long Bay, is just as beautiful and less frequented by tourists. Boarding around noon on a junk, discovery of a floating fishing village in the bay... Let’s enjoy the beauty of the site, this sea dotted with hundreds of islets that is part of the world heritage of humanity. We drop anchor near a beach to take the time to have lunch on board the junk. In the afternoon, we sail towards Cam Island. Those who wish can go kayaking or take a boat ride. Return to the junk and head to a pretty, quiet beach to swim and relax. The sunset over the bay is a magical moment, which we admire from the junk. And if you feel like it, squid fishing with the local fishermen! Dinner and overnight on board the boat.

• day 11

  Lan Ha Bay - Cat Ba Island - Hanoi - flight to Hue

  

  We leave the junk after breakfast and set foot on Cat Ba Island, near the village of Viet Hai. These are the last hours in Lan Ha Bay, so make the most of it! A bike ride or an electric cart tour is really pleasant on this path lined with tropical vegetation. Back on the junk, the trip continues from islet to islet. We have a good meal on board and disembark at Ben Beo port around noon, then head to Hanoi for the Hanoi – Hue flight. Upon arrival in Hue, we are welcomed by our driver, then transferred to the hotel. Check-in and overnight at the hotel in Hue.

• day 12

  Hue - Visit of the former capital

  We dedicate this beautiful day to the 300-year-old Imperial City! The Nguyen dynasty reigned there, building the historical edifices that you will soon admire. The citadel may have suffered from bombings during the war against the Americans, but it still stands tall and proud! It is, of course, a UNESCO World Heritage monument. But first, let's take a stroll to Dong Ba market. The morning is always a good time to discover markets, which are also indicators of the local way of life, especially since Hue is famous in Vietnam for its elaborate gastronomy. It is recommended to have a taste! The Citadel then awaits us, as well as the famous Pagoda of the Heavenly Lady and the tombs of two kings of the Nguyen dynasty, Minh Mang and Khai Dinh. Depending on how the day unfolds and according to your wishes, we may discover a workshop for making incense sticks and conical hats. Overnight at the hotel in Hue.

• day 13

  Hue - Hoi An

  

  Our next destination is the charming city of Hoi An. On the way, we make a morning stop at the beach and the fishing village of Lang Co. Our journey continues to Tra Que, which is a few kilometers from Hoi An: this village is very famous for its organic vegetables, and we will have lunch there. Then we reach Hoi An, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. This city was the main port of the Kingdom of Champa and has had a rather incredible history over the centuries: a port open to global trade! Hence its very unique and well-preserved architecture. We will visit its remarkable monuments: the Japanese bridge, an old house, and the Phuc Kien temple. Then, we will stroll through the city to the market along the river. Overnight at the hotel in Hoi An.

• day 14

  Hoi An - My Son Temple - Flight to Saigon

  This morning, we leave Hoi An for the Cham sanctuary of My Son, located about thirty kilometers away. The particularity of the site is that these are Hindu temples dating, for the oldest, from the 4th century! The Cham Empire, established as far south as the year 192, developed the site over centuries, up until the 13th century. Here too, a UNESCO World Heritage listing recognizes the architectural and historical value of the site. Do not hesitate to do some reading about this kingdom and this culture, it is really interesting. Next, our driver will take you to Danang airport, heading to Saigon. There, you will be welcomed by the guide and the driver, who will take you to your hotel. Overnight at a hotel in Saigon.

• day 15

  Saigon - City tour

  

  Let's go, let's explore Saigon today! We start the day with a good breakfast and discover this modern city, which was the capital of Indochina until its liberation in 1975. Currently, Saigon is the economic capital of Vietnam. We will retrace the past: the central post office and its metal framework, the Reunification Palace, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the majestic City Hall, and the Lady Thien Hau Pagoda. Next, we will head to the Chinatown district, whose market is worth a visit. At the end of the day, you can continue to freely discover the daily life of the Saigonese! Check-in at the hotel and overnight in Saigon.

• day 16

  Saigon - Ben Tre - Can Tho

  The day is devoted to discovering the Ben Tre area, particularly the lifestyle of the inhabitants of the Mekong Delta region. The canals of Ben Tre are perfectly suited for a boat trip on a sampan. What is produced here? Honey, coconut candies. Mats are made, all kinds of fruits and vegetables are grown... So many opportunities for us to visit, taste, and interact with the locals. Then, we set off again: heading to the provincial capital of Can Tho and its port. You will have free time to explore the surroundings.

• day 17

  Can Tho - Floating market - Rach Gia - Phu Quoc

  

  In Can Tho, the Cai Rang floating market is a must-see! Each boat has its specialty, announced by the pole raised at the front, a way to attract customers. Let yourself be tempted by some fresh products, you won't be disappointed: the Mekong Delta is an area where farmers know how to make the most of the silt that fertilizes their fields. We will also visit a fruit garden, then a rice vermicelli workshop, and finally the An Binh market. We will then drive to the port of Rach Gia and board a speedboat. Finally, let's sail to the beautiful island of Phu Quoc! The hoteliers will pick you up and help you settle in. You will be free to stroll around the island and enjoy the beach for the rest of the day. Overnight at the hotel on Phu Quoc island.

• day 18

  Phu Quoc Island - Free day

  In order to make the most of this seaside tourism time, you will be free to organize your time as you wish in Phu Quoc. The free days take place without a guide or driver, between relaxation and activities of your choice. Thus, on the island, you can enjoy water activities such as scuba diving or snorkeling with fins, mask, and snorkel. In addition, various visits are possible, such as a tour of a workshop preparing the famous nuoc mam sauce. There are also excursions to go fishing, visit villages, and tour the island by motorbike, for example.

• day 19

  Phu Quoc Island - Free day

  

  In order to make the most of this seaside tourism time, you will be free to organize your time as you wish in Phu Quoc. The free days take place without a guide or driver, between relaxation and activities of your choice. Thus, on the island, you can enjoy water activities such as scuba diving or snorkeling with fins, mask, and snorkel. In addition, various visits are possible, such as a tour of a workshop preparing the famous nuoc mam sauce. There are also excursions to go fishing, visit villages, and tour the island by motorbike, for example.

• day 20

  Phu Quoc - Flight to Saigon - Departure flight

  On this day, enjoy your last morning in Phu Quoc at your leisure. A driver will come to take you to the island's airport. You will travel to Saigon and can then board your international return flight, your mind and heart full of memories. End of our services.