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When you travel with a Specialist, your senses are opened to a world far beyond conventional. Asia Travel Specialist deliver the extraordinary with ease with specialist who care about your trip as much or even more than you do! But, remember always, Travel with a Specialist.
12 days
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
£3,450
Essence of Vietnam
Family
Experience the highlights of Vietnam – Traverse 2000km of Vietnam from the calm emerald waters of Halong Bay in the north to the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City in the steamy south. Essence of Vietnam includes the major highlights of Vietnam and is ideal for first time visitors to Vietnam or for families. We have selected good quality hotels that offer exceptional value. These hotels and resorts also offer connecting rooms or two bedroom arrangements which are perfect for Vietnam family holidays.
Essence of Vietnam – Tour Highlights
Hanoi – Halong Bay – Hoi An – Cam Ranh – Saigon
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Explore Hanoi's vibrant and chaotic old quarter
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Cruise world famous Halong Bay
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Cycle the ancient cobbled streets of Hoi An and nearby villages
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Relax at The Anam Resort and enjoy the beautiful beaches of Cam Ranh
Suggested tour itinerary – we will customise this for you.
Day 1 – Arrive in Hanoi
Arrival at Hanoi International Airport. After immigration, customs and baggage claim, your clients will be warmly welcomed by their guide and driver in the arrivals hall and transferred to their hotel for check-in.
This afternoon is free at leisure.
Hotel:
The Oriental Jade Hotel and Spa
The Oriental Jade Hotel and Spa is perfectly located within Hanoi’s fascinating and vibrant old quarter and just a few steps from famous Hoan Kiem Lake. The 120 rooms are bright, spacious and feature an attractive blend of classic Indochine charm with modern comforts. A rarity in Hanoi, the skybar, rooftop pool and gym are a great place to take in the city views after a day discovering the delights of the surrounding old quarter. Thang Long Signature Restaurant serves traditional Vietnamese cuisine and the coffee lounge offers a stylish meeting place to enjoy drinks and light snacks. O’ Spa Lotus was one of the very first spas in the Old Quarter of Hanoi and offers a wide range of treatments.
Meals: None
Day 2 – Hanoi: Evening Vespa Food Tour
Early evening enjoy a cocktail at a stylish local Café and a delicious snack from one of the nearby night time vendors. Jump on the back of a vintage Vespa for an exiting food tour, a highlight for many on their Vietnam tour. After weaving through the magical, busy back streets of the Old Quarter, your clients soon arrive at a fascinating local eatery right on the railway tracks (literally!) where we try some infused rice wine and a Buffalo Jerky appetizer. Ride through the narrow streets and head towards the next foodie place, a lively local restaurant serving Bun Cha. This the quintessential, must taste Hanoi dish of rice noodles, grilled pork and meatballs, with a side of Nem (spring rolls). Simple but delicious!
Later, head out of the Old Quarter and along the side of the lake to the next venue which is very famous in the neighbourhood! Try the local specialty of Pho Cuon, and learn the art of wrap ‘n’ roll with these fresh & fragrant ingredients, and the Pho noodle! Finally, a short ride on the Vespa takes your clients to a Jazz Club next to the superb Opera House. The halcyon days of the 1930’s may be over however this Jazz Club will wow you with a truly unique blend of styles – 30’s style Jazz & traditional Vietnamese music!
Overnight in Hanoi.
Hotel:
The Oriental Jade Hotel and Spa
The Oriental Jade Hotel and Spa is perfectly located within Hanoi’s fascinating and vibrant old quarter and just a few steps from famous Hoan Kiem Lake. The 120 rooms are bright, spacious and feature an attractive blend of classic Indochine charm with modern comforts. A rarity in Hanoi, the skybar, rooftop pool and gym are a great place to take in the city views after a day discovering the delights of the surrounding old quarter. Thang Long Signature Restaurant serves traditional Vietnamese cuisine and the coffee lounge offers a stylish meeting place to enjoy drinks and light snacks. O’ Spa Lotus was one of the very first spas in the Old Quarter of Hanoi and offers a wide range of treatments.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3 – Hanoi ~ Halong Bay
This morning private transfer by road 3 1/2 hours to Tuan Chau Port near Halong Bay.
Board Indochina Sails vessel at Tuan Chau Port. Enjoy a welcome drink before receiving a cruise and safety briefing.
For lunch a deluxe Vietnamese set menu is served. Massage service is available after lunch and throughout the cruise. Please book in advance with the cruise manager.
Cruise through Halong Bay, passing the most beautiful and quiet areas including Incense Burner, Dog Stone Islet, Fighting Cock and Finger Islet. Arrive at Surprise Cave – one of the most spectacular and largest grottoes in Halong Bay. The mouth of the grotto is reached by ascending about a hundred stone steps. Depart and sail for about 30 minutes to anchor overnight. Attend the fruit and vegetable carving lesson led by the Head Chef. During the lesson, the chef shows guests how to decorate and make some traditional Vietnamese food. Afterwards dinner is served.
This evening board games like cards or Parcheesi are available, as well as the massage service. Everyone can try their luck at squid fishing on the boat with help from the crew.
Cruise: Indochina Sails (Two Superior Cabins)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 – Halong Bay – Hanoi – Hoi An
A light breakfast of coffee, tea and breakfast pastries is served in the dining room. Early risers can enjoy a Tai Chi lesson on the sundeck which lasts for about 30 minutes. After breakfast your clients transfer by tender to Titov Island. Spend around one hour on the island which allows time to climb to the peak for a breath-taking 360 degree view of the bay. There is also an expansive viewing deck half way up. After the climb, there is time left to relax on the beach and have a swim.
Upon returning to the boat clients enjoy a full breakfast in the dining room. Bills are settled after breakfast. Clients can relax on the sundeck or in the dining room enjoying the bay scenery as they approach the pier.
11.00 Arrive at Tuan Chau port and your clients will meet their local guide and driver who will transfer them 3 hours to Hanoi Airport.
Domestic flight approximately 1, 1/2 hours to Danang airport. Upon arrival your clients are met by their local guide and transferred to their hotel in Hoi An, a 45 minute drive.
Overnight in Hoi An.
Hotel:
La Siesta Hoi An Resort and Spa
Just a short walk from Hoi An’s historic old town, La Siesta Hoi An is an oasis of tranquility located on the outskirts of Hoi An next to verdant rice fields.
The club wing features 37 suites within terraced townhouses, the architecture inspired by historic Hoi An houses in the old quarter. Suites surround a generous sized pool and colourful tropical gardens. The classic wing offers 70 rooms within a more contemporary building surrounding a relaxing pool area. Rooms are adorned with furniture and local artwork that reflect the culture of central Vietnam.
Food lovers have a choice of traditional Vietnamese cuisine at Red Bean or international fusion at The Temple. La Siesta Hoi An also features a leading spa and garden villa fitness suite.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5 – Hoi An
This morning your client’s guide will pick them up from their hotel for a tour of Hoi An and surrounding villages, a highlight for many on their Vietnam family holiday.
Bike
Explore the hidden passageways and winding alleyways of UNESCO World Heritage town of old Hoi An by bike. Hoi An is a very popular destination, but the town is so beautiful with some great restaurants. It really is a wonderful place to explore. Stop to photograph the iconic Japanese bridge. After crossing the canal bridge near the night market, continue to the new metal bridge connecting Hoi An and its southern villages. Not far from the bridge, clients visit a local family making Banh Dap using the traditional method. These small savoury rice flour bowls are a common breakfast staple in the countryside.
Continue cycling to one of Hoi An’s most beautiful villages, stopping at a family home to learn about the tradition of family chapels. The host is nearly 90 years old and fought in the American war. He has plenty of stories for your clients! This is the kind of authentic connection we seek to provide on our Vietnam tours.
Next, pedal past rice fields, vegetable farms, small canals and waterways towards a boat building site. Fishing is still the lifeblood of the province and the construction of these boats is quite amazing to witness and photograph.
The roads narrow again to concrete paths and the final stops include a traditional mat weaving shop and a family distillery. A delicious homemade lunch of Hoi An specialties will be served at a local house.
Kayak
After fuelling up, cycle along the riverside and board the kayaks. Enjoy a paddle past water-coconut plantations, shrimp farms and little fishing hamlets. If your clients are lucky, they may see the fishermen emptying their nets, which is a spectacular sight. Along the way, your clients stop at one of the little islands to rest and enjoy the views.
Arrive at the Cam Thanh area of Hoi An. Clients will be dropped back to their hotel by 2:30 pm.
Remainder of the afternoon is free at leisure.
Overnight in Hoi An.
Hotel:
La Siesta Hoi An Resort and Spa
Just a short walk from Hoi An’s historic old town, La Siesta Hoi An is an oasis of tranquility located on the outskirts of Hoi An next to verdant rice fields.
The club wing features 37 suites within terraced townhouses, the architecture inspired by historic Hoi An houses in the old quarter. Suites surround a generous sized pool and colourful tropical gardens. The classic wing offers 70 rooms within a more contemporary building surrounding a relaxing pool area. Rooms are adorned with furniture and local artwork that reflect the culture of central Vietnam.
Food lovers have a choice of traditional Vietnamese cuisine at Red Bean or international fusion at The Temple. La Siesta Hoi An also features a leading spa and garden villa fitness suite.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Hoi An
Day 6 – Hoi An
Today is free for self exploration of Hoi An and relaxation at the hotel. Cu Dai public beach is a short taxi ride away. Alternatively if your clients are looking for tour suggestions for today such as a traditional fishing experience, cooking class or temple visit, just ask your Asia Travel Specialist. All our Vietnam family holidays are fully tailored to meet your needs.
Hotel:
La Siesta Hoi An Resort and Spa
Just a short walk from Hoi An’s historic old town, La Siesta Hoi An is an oasis of tranquility located on the outskirts of Hoi An next to verdant rice fields.
The club wing features 37 suites within terraced townhouses, the architecture inspired by historic Hoi An houses in the old quarter. Suites surround a generous sized pool and colourful tropical gardens. The classic wing offers 70 rooms within a more contemporary building surrounding a relaxing pool area. Rooms are adorned with furniture and local artwork that reflect the culture of central Vietnam.
Food lovers have a choice of traditional Vietnamese cuisine at Red Bean or international fusion at The Temple. La Siesta Hoi An also features a leading spa and garden villa fitness suite.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7 – Hoi An – Cam Ranh
Transfer to Danang airport for the short flight to Cam Ranh. Upon arrival a resort representative will transfer your clients the short distance to The Anam. Remainder of the day is free at leisure.
Hotel:
The Anam
Easily accessible from Cam Ranh airport in just a few minutes, The Anam enjoys a prime location on one of Vietnam’s best beaches. Although a modern resort, the design aesthetic is influenced by Vietnam’s French colonial architecture.
The 136 elegant rooms and 77 luxurious villas are surrounded by lush landscaped gardens and feature outdoor balconies or terraces. Some rooms have private pools, while others face the azure sea. Three sparkling swimming pools are complimented by cozy sun loungers and shady coconut palms. The Anam boasts four restaurants and two bars. For restless guests the options are plentiful. Choose from, sailing, kayaking, fishing, yoga, gym, tennis, golf putting and kids club. Guests looking for more sedate activities can enjoy the spa and cinema.
Meals: Breakfast
Days 8 – 9 – Cam Ranh
Free time for beach resort relaxation.
Hotel:
The Anam
Easily accessible from Cam Ranh airport in just a few minutes, The Anam enjoys a prime location on one of Vietnam’s best beaches. Although a modern resort, the design aesthetic is influenced by Vietnam’s French colonial architecture.
The 136 elegant rooms and 77 luxurious villas are surrounded by lush landscaped gardens and feature outdoor balconies or terraces. Some rooms have private pools, while others face the azure sea. Three sparkling swimming pools are complimented by cozy sun loungers and shady coconut palms. The Anam boasts four restaurants and two bars. For restless guests the options are plentiful. Choose from, sailing, kayaking, fishing, yoga, gym, tennis, golf putting and kids club. Guests looking for more sedate activities can enjoy the spa and cinema.
Meals: Breakfast
Beach with traditional basket boats, central Vietnam
Day 10 – Cam Ranh ~ Saigon
Resort transfer to Cam Ranh airport for the flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon).
Upon arrival in Saigon, a driver and guide will meet and transfer your clients to their hotel for check-in.
In the afternoon, firstly visit the former Presidential Palace, or as it is known today – the Reunification Palace. Then head to the historical heart of the city and visit the Notre Dame Cathedral (outside visit only). The red bricks of the cathedral walls were originally from Paris. Later, take a short walk to the old Central Post Office. Afterwards visit the War Remnants Museum and discover some different perspectives on the war.
Finally your clients visit the best-preserved buildings from the colonial era, the Opera House and the Hotel de Ville. Also visit the art deco Catinat building which contains many designer boutiques, galleries, restaurants and cafés. Transfer back to the hotel.
Overnight in Saigon.
Hotel:
Mai House Saigon
Mai House Saigon is just a short walk from the very centre of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) and its famous landmarks such as Notre Dame Cathedral. French-Indochinese design and charming colonial flair runs throughout this 224 room luxury oasis in the heart of Saigon. Mai House Saigon offers plush interiors and beautifully appointed guestrooms, suites and serviced apartments. C’est La Vie restaurant offers fine French and Vietnamese cuisine whilst Thom Lounge is a relaxing space to enjoy an afternoon tea or aperitif. Elevating your stay yet further is The Fifth Element which includes fitness room, spa, sauna, roof top swimming pool and alfresco bar on the 5th floor.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 11 – Saigon: Cu Chi Tunnels
This morning enjoy a boat trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Embark on the speed boat from Ho Chi Minh City’s pier. Note the boat is not private and shared with other tourists. Your client’s English-speaking guide will introduce them to life along the banks of the Saigon River as their boat gracefully slips through knots of floating water hyacinths on this scenic one-hour boat trip.
A traditional Vietnamese lunch of local specialties like lemongrass chicken and caramelized clay pot pork is served on arrival to the tunnels. After a short documentary, the guide will lead your clients through the historic Cu Chi Tunnels. The tunnels were dug by resourceful guerrilla fighters to provide communication and supply routes, hospitals, food and weapon caches and living quarters during numerous conflicts.
Return to the hotel, afternoon is free at leisure.
Overnight in Saigon.
Hotel:
Mai House Saigon
Mai House Saigon is just a short walk from the very centre of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) and its famous landmarks such as Notre Dame Cathedral. French-Indochinese design and charming colonial flair runs throughout this 224 room luxury oasis in the heart of Saigon. Mai House Saigon offers plush interiors and beautifully appointed guestrooms, suites and serviced apartments. C’est La Vie restaurant offers fine French and Vietnamese cuisine whilst Thom Lounge is a relaxing space to enjoy an afternoon tea or aperitif. Elevating your stay yet further is The Fifth Element which includes fitness room, spa, sauna, roof top swimming pool and alfresco bar on the 5th floor.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 12 – Saigon departure
Sadly its the end of your Vietnam family holiday! Transfer to the airport in good time to meet the departure flight.
Meals: Breakfast
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DepartureLondon and regional airports
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When you travel with a Specialist, your senses are opened to a world far beyond conventional. Asia Travel Specialist delivers the extraordinary with ease with a specialist who cares about your trip as much or even more than you do! But, remember always, Travel with a Specialist.