After a few days in Hanoi, we decided to take a break from the hustle and bustle and took a trip to Halong Bay. The bay is basically made up of about 3000 (didn’t have time to count them all) limestone islands, all dotted around the place. We decided to do a two day one night trip, which basically involved going out on a boat into the bay, to a few of the islands and then anchoring for the night, before returning back the following day. There was quite a lot of sea mist around, which reduced visibility quite a bit, but it was still a good trip.

There were not many people on our boat, which was a bit unfortunate, as this made the evening’s entertainment somewhat none existent. Still a few of us had a few drinks up on the stop of the boat and were relaxing nicely until someone come up top and announced that they had just seen a cockroach running around down stairs. Did not think much of it, until someone else came back and said they had just seen it run into my cabin. I went down to find it, and he took a bit of tracking down. Then all I had to do was catch the thing and kill it….I never knew they could run so fast. Anyway, eventually I managed to kill the thing and give it a proper sea burial…and tossed it over the side. On my way back up top, I passed and killed one or two more, but when I got up top I was greeted with the girls and Jeff, stood on chairs on the top deck…there were a few little baby roaches running around.

It was decided to go to the cabins and block every little crack and cranny to stop the roaches from returning. So after about half an hour, we had the cabins secure and myself and Jeff decided to go on operation roach hunt. There by this point were a fair few roaches running around, which we duly trod on (the big ones make a really good crunching sound when you stand on them). I then happened to shine a torch through the kitchen window and lets just say…I didn’t eat breakfast the following morning, apart from fired eggs, which I hope they could not crawl all over!

The next day we made it back to dry land without any further problems and all in all the trip was great fun and well worth doing…the views are scenery are incredible.

Southeast Asia’s leading travel company Exotissimo Travel is pleased to present an exhilarating culinary journey in Vietnam. Culinary Delights of Vietnam is a 12 Days / 11 Nights luxury tour encompassing cooking courses, culinary excursions, sightseeing opportunities and stays in deluxe hotels.

In response to the growing demand for insightful culinary tours, Exotissimo Vietnam tapped into its extensive knowledge of Vietnam to design a rich epicurean expedition. Traversing from south to north along the coastline, this gastronomic adventure features a diverse cross-section of Vietnam’s culinary treats and establishments, ranging from trendy fusion restaurants to the country’s mouth-watering street food.

This experiential culinary journey includes specially-led cooking classes with ample hands-on opportunities. In Ho Chi Minh City, participants spend time with a well-known food connoisseur who thrills with a lively cooking demonstration and delectable creations. In Hoi An’s Tra Que Herb Village, they can harvest vegetables and prepare local dishes alongside local farmers. In Saigon, classic recipes can be uncovered at the eponymous Didier Corlou cooking school where the acclaimed French culinary master shares his outstanding knowledge of Vietnamese cuisine. Adding to these tasteful experiences will be indulgent dinners in charming colonial properties and private residences accompanied by entertaining proprietors.

The itinerary is also designed to provide the food-loving travelers with up-close insights into the local way of life. Travelers will browse Mekong Delta’s bustling floating markets for indigenous snacks and products in Cai Be, observe the skillful techniques used to make pho and explore the ‘traditional medicine street’ in Hanoi’s Old Quarters.

Other trip highlights include an exquisite cruise through the sublime beauty of Halong Bay, a sampling of Hue’s heritage through its royal cuisine, the signature gallery coffee houses of Hanoi and the art galleries and museums of Saigon.

“What better way to experience a culture than a dedicated cuisine tour through the country?” says Maeve Nolan, Product Manager of Exotissimo Vietnam. “Vietnam is a treasure trove of exotic cuisine and we are very excited to promote this tour. For culinary enthusiasts with an appetite for both food and adventure, this tour is a perfect fit.”

A complete description of this tour can be found at Culinary Delights of Vietnam.

To explore more Vietnam Travel

Luxury Travel Vietnam has established its reputation as a unique and genuine Southeast Asian experience. And now, there is ample opportunity to explore it in style and luxury.

In the north, wander the charming colonial boulevards of Hanoi. The Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Hotel rivals the finest hotels guest will find anywhere, and the restaurants and eateries will delight your senses.

Enjoy finest cuisine at award winning The Hanoi Press Club, Wild Rice and the elegant Mandarin Restaurant in the Westlake.

The sensuous, serene scenery of Halong Bay is an absolute must-see in the north.

And a trip to central Vietnam would not be complete without exploring the majesty of Hue, the former imperial capital.

Next fly to the resort town of Nha Trang to spend several days in a secluded private villa overlooking beautiful Ninh Van Bay at the Evason Hideaway Ninh Van Bay. Snorkel or dive among the coral reefs in crystal blue waters, hike nature trails, cool off in your private plunge pool, indulge in spa treatments or just relax on the white sand beach and admire the unspoiled mountain and sea views.

Farther south, entertain the senses in Ho Chi Minh City. Exploring the Mekong Delta region is also essential. Start in Cai Be on private junk Cai Be Princess. Lunch is served at a family estate along the delta, with a stop at Vinh Long before returning to Saigon.

Tour prices start from USD $ 14.861 net per-person double rate, this includes best accommodation costs at best suite rooms at luxury properties, nearly all meals, regional flights, private transfers, private pick up and drop off service.

The tour can be booked at last minute, and can be customized to suit individual interests and schedules.

“Throughout Vietnam you will savor fresh and exotic cuisine, experience the warmth and openness of the Vietnamese people and enjoy abundant shopping, this new travel experience in 2010 bring you absolutely the best of the best Vietnam has to offer” said Pham Ha, President and CEO Of Luxury Travel Vietnam.

Guests are also free to request helicopter tour, restaurant reservations, meetings with artists, cooking instructors and designers, shopping recommendations, spa reservations, tours with special-interest lecturers, and exclusive access to local activities and cultural events.

See this unique travel experience online at http://www.luxurytravelvietnam.net

Indochina Sails is a susidiary of Huong Hai Junks, one of the first companies to offer luxury tourist cruising on Halong Bay, Vietnam.

With Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, Indochina Sails (http://www.indochinasails.com) will participate in the largest World Tourism Market “WTM London 2009″ to be held from Nov 09 to 12 in London, the Capital of United Kingdom.

Indochina Sails aims to promote Luxury Cruises in Halong Bay, Vietnam in the luxury segment, which is addressed to people who want to live a unique experience, with personalized service, privacy, tranquility and simplicity in World Heritage of Vietnam.

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Indochina Sails is a susidiary of Huong Hai Junks, one of the first companies to offer luxury tourist cruising on Halong Bay, Vietnam.

Backed by 10 years experience hosting international guests on the tranquil waters of the bay, Indochina Sails have set a new standard for luxury cruising. The first company to offer overnight cruises on the bay, Indochina Sails is now widely known as the number one choice for discerning travellers, operating a fleet of four newly built wooden junks designed in time-honoured traditional style, with contemporary and luxurious cabins and facilities.

Last year, Indochina Sails and Huong Hai Junks have the opportunity to serve President of Vietnam, MICE groups, Miss Universe Contest as well as Indochina Sails have served about 18,000 travelers to Halong Bay in 2008.

WTM London 2009
Attendance: Ms. Nguyen Thu Trang – Sales Manager
Booth Number: AS7175
Email: customers-care@indochinasails.com or info@indochinasails.com
Website: http://www.indochinasails.com
WTM link: http://www.wtmlondon.com/page.cfm/Action=Exhib/ExhibID=92

On arrival, pick up and enjoy a half day city tour to visit Temple of Literature, Ngoc Son Temple and Sword Lake. Then you will take your time to travel around the Old Quarter streets to explore its animation and the abundance of fine-arts and handicrafts there. Check in your hotel. Overnight in Hanoi.

After breakfast, we start to visit Ho Chi Minh mausoleum, Ho Chi Minh Museum and One Pillar Pagoda. Our next stops are West Lake and Tran Quoc pagoda – the one which lies right beside the lake. After that, continue to visit Ethnology Museum, a valuable centre for the exhibition and the preservation of cultural heritages of the 54 ethnic groups in Vietnam. After lunch, we leave Hanoi to Halong Bay. On arrival, check in your hotel. Free for exploring Halong city by your self. Overnight in Halong.

After breakfast, we will embark to a boat for a cruise around Ha Long Bay. This exciting trip will provide us a spectacular view of the bay, which is dotted with some 3,000 limestone islands rising amazingly from the clear and emerald water. The limestone formations are littered with beaches, grottoes and beautiful caves. Along the way we will anchor for an enjoyable visit to two of the many hidden grottoes beneath towering cliffs (Thien Cung and Dau Go caves). After a seafood lunch on board we return to Ha Noi, on the way stopping en route to visit Tho Ha pottery village in Bac Ninh province. On arrival, enjoy a water puppet show – the unique traditional art of the North. Check in your hotel. Overnight in Hanoi

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for a flight to Hue. On arrival, pick up at the airport, then start a city tour day in Hue. Hue – the citadel and the forbidden city – was built since beginning of Nguyen Dynasty in Vietnam 1802 with well complex of city and Emperor Palace of Nguyen dynasty. Even many parts were destroyed during 1968 American war in Vietnam but it is really an impressive place to visit. Our first stops are: the Royal Palace, King Tu Duc and King Khai Dinh Tombs. Then take a boat trip on Perfume river to visit Thien Mu pagoda. A good way to finish an interesting day is your free time to go shopping in Dong Ba market. Check in hotel. Overnight in Hue.

After breakfast, we drive to Hoi An town, which is about 120km from Hue. You will travel through Hai Van pass, and Lang Co beach – one of the most beautiful beaches of Vietnam. On the way, we stop by Da Nang city to visit Cham Museum (where you will see the open air collection of Cham sculpture. Many of the sandstone carving are breathtaking) and Marble Mountain. Then keep driving to Hoi An. On arrival, check in your hotel. Overnight in Hoi An

After breakfast, free until being transferred to the airport for a flight to Saigon. On arrival, pick up at the airport and enjoy a day city tour to visit War Museum, The Great Opera House, and Reunification Hall, also called Presidential Palace, was built in 1865 on the ground of Norodom Palace as a residence for the French Governor General of Cochin China. Then we continue visiting Central Post Office and Notre Dame Cathedral, a magnificent building located in the heart of the city, and were built in a French style. Check in hotel. Overnight in Saigon.

After breakfast, transfer to visit Mytho Take a boat trip along Tien river to visit Phung Islet with many orchard gardens. You can enjoy some tasteful honey tea and local specialities in the sound of Tai Tu folk music performed by the local people. In the afternoon, back to Saigon. Visit Thien Hau Temple, China Town and go shopping in Ben Thanh market. Overnight in Saigon.

After breakfast, free time until being transferred to the airport for your departure flight. End tour.

VISIT VIETNAM WITH ASIANWAY TRAVEL

Vietnam tour

More Halong Discovery Articles

One of the must do’s if you are visiting Hanoi is a side trip to Halong Bay. I personally have done it twice – once on a bit of a budget and most recently in style on Indochina Sails. Indochina Sails presents a truly elegant cruising experience on its lovingly restored, lacquered wood, antique junk.

It all starts with a morning drive from Hanoi, which is about 3 hours – your boat will arrange transport from your hotel. Undoubtedly around the halfway point you will stop at some souvenir shops…these are usually prearranged with the driver (unbeknownst to the passenger) and we suspect he gets some sort of commission. You can either spend time here or go quickly. I will say on my more budget trip the caliber of the shop reflected the caliber of the trip. However on this one, we managed to stop off at a place where they were making pottery and statues, so for some of us, it was actually truly interesting to wander around the workshop and see the vases being hand painted and then kiln fired.

As we drove past the dock where I took off last time (full of backpackers standing around in a dusty parking lot and loading their own baggage), I was relived to arrive at an entirely civilized departure point repleat with coffee and gift shop. If you are traveling Indochina Sails a steward will meet you at the coffee shop and whisk away your luggage while you check in. After a short ride to in a smaller boat, you board the junk and are immediately enveloped in old world elegance.

After checking in, lunch is served. We enjoyed (Sup Kem Bi Do) pumpkin soup;

(Nem Tuoi Cuon Phuc Vu Cung Nuoc) fresh spring rolls with fish sauce and green papaya salad;

(Tom He Ha Long Chien Xot Me) fried Halong shrimp with tamarind sauce;

(Ga Nuong Cung La Chanh Tuoi) grilled chicken with lemon leaves;

(Than Ca Vuoc Nuong Phuc Vu Cung Bun Tuoi Va Nuoc Cham Duc Biet) grilled fish with rice and classic sauce;

(Cocktail Hoa Qua & Sua Chua) fruit cocktail and yogurt.

The pumpkin soup was really excellent – smooth and creamy. And the spring rolls were also a hit.
Overall, it should be noted that while the food is good, this is not a culinary cruise. In my book, the welcome lunch was probably the best. The other meals were buffet style, which is often not my preference. The dinner buffet did however feature some tasty steamed littleneck clams. With that said, all food is included in your per person rate, its just wine, beer, coffee or tea you will pay extra for a mealtime (excepting breakfast where the coffee / tea is complimentary.)

The real attraction however on this trip is the majestic scenery of the peridot green Halong Bay and the limestone rocks that make the view so dramatic and compelling. Halong Bay was declared a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1994. As a result the waters and the land are well maintained and one can be sure that the beauty will be preserved.

And beyond the beauty that you can see there is lots of beauty that you cannot. This is where the ship’s excursions come in. On day one you can visit Titop island and hike 400+ steps to the top for a panoramic view of the bay.

Also on offer is a 1 hour kayak trip (+ USD pp) or a visit to a local fishing village. We chose the kayak trip and so we set out with a guide to explore the bay. It was really fantastic being so close to the water after having admired it sparkling gem-like qualities from on high. I was really hoping it would be translucent, but it wasn’t. So instead we got a little arm and shoulder workout as we maneuvered underneath low hanging cave entrances and admired the limestone rock formations.

Once back on board, there is a happy hour. Again, all drinks are a la carte, but if you do want to participate in an all you can drink 60 minute happy hour for USD the option is yours. The nice thing about Vietnam is given their French colonial heritage, they get a nice selection of French wines. I enjoyed a crisp Sauvignon Blanc on the upper deck with friends as we chatted about the day we had enjoyed and the day ahead. It was a perfect night, a bit crisp and breezy, and as I enjoyed my wine and conversation, the cares of the world melted away and I was in a rare state (for me anyway) of truly being 100% present in the moment.
Later that night, we slept quite comfortably in our cabin. The boat had docked for the night and was quite still in the placid waters of the bay. Paul was worried he wouldn’t be able to sleep on a boat, but his concerns melted away as he fell into a very deep sleep. In fact, in the morning we were both surprised how well we had slept – probably a combination of exercise, fresh air and good wine.

Day 2 started with an early morning trip to Sung Sot Cave (also known as Surprise Grotto) on Bon Hon island where you can climb the 100 steps to the cave entrance and explore for about an hour. Inside the grotto, Light illuminates the passage so you can see thousands of stalactites and stalagmites along the 500-meter paved passage. It’s probably the only grotto of its kind that I have personally seen and so it lives large in my memory. I wish it was a little more rustic rather than tourist heavy, but in the end I am glad I visited.

After the morning excursion the boat heads back to the dock and it is time to head back to Hanoi. Another 3 hour drive, another stop at a souvenir shop. As we recounted the trip during our ride back, myself, Paul and the other 5 travelers who were with us agreed that Halong Bay was an absolutely spectacular thing to see and doing it aboard the Indochina Sails was time and money well spent.
To contact Indochina Sails, you can do so through their wesbite below.

Indochina Sails
5 USD pp for a double room, includes meals and transport. Dos not include some activities like kayaking.

http://www.panviettravel.com.vn/index.php?option=com_entravelpackages&task=show&catid=283&id=207

Email to us: panviettravel@gmail.com

Code: PV – SH 21 -07

Routes: Hanoi – Sapa – Halong – Ninh Binh – Hue – Danang – Hoi An – Nha Trang – Saigon – Cu Chi – Mekong
Duration:   21 days

Day 1: Good morning Hanoi
Day 2: Hanoi, city tour of the 1000 year old capital
Day 3: Hanoi – Tam Coc – Hoa Lu – Sapa, night train
Day 4: Sapa – Ta Phin, trekking and homestay (4 hours)
Day 5: More trekking and back to Sapa
Day 6: Sapa – Tam Duong by Jeep
Day 7: Tam Duong – Sapa – Hanoi, via night train
Day 8: Hanoi – Halong Bay

Day 9: Halong Bay – HanoiDay
10: Your free day in HanoiDay
11: Hue, city tour Day
12: Hue, boat trip – HoianDay
13: Hoian, walking tour in the ancient town
Day 14: Hoian – Nha Trang
Day 15: Nha Trang, island boat trip
Day 16: Nha Trang – Saigon, city tour
Day 17: Tay Ninh and the Cu Chi tunnels
Day 18: Saigon to the fertile Mekong Delta (Cai Be – Can Tho)
Day 19: Can Tho – Saigon
Day 20: Free day in Saigon
Day 21: Departure Saigon, Goodbye Vietnam

Welcome to Hanoi, we will meet and take you to your hotel, check in your hotel then today is free at your leisure, to rest or explore around at your own pace. Overnight in Hanoi.

: Transfer, Tour Guide, Hotel

Depart at 8:00 am, after checking out, from your hotel by car. We will begin our day by visiting Uncle Ho, learning about his great life at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Presidential Palace, and his residential place. Next stop is the nearby Temple of Literature.

The site of Vietnam\’s first University, built in twelfth century, to teach the royals the Confucius theory. Here we will also have a chance to see a traditional music performance. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant for a taste of authentic Hanoi Pho. In the afternoon, choose one from the numerous museums or temples around Hanoi (Museum of Ethnology, Women\’s Museum, History Museum or Quan Thanh Temple). A late afternoon walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and Hanoi\’s fascinating Old Quarter for some great fun, shopping, and street side traditional food. This is your chance to be part of typical Hanoian style and its traditional Vietnamese culture. We finish our relaxing but informative day by attending a Water Puppet Show, a favorite experience for all visitors to Vietnam.We can help you get back to your hotel if you wish, but often our guests would just rather spend the early evening enjoying a drink with a view of the city. Dinner on your own.

: Retire to your hotel for the night. All meals, Car / bus, Entrance fee(s)

Pick-up from your hotel is at 8:00 am, we have a 2 hour drive (110km South) to the city of Ninh Binh, also known as the Inland Halong and the Ancient Capital. It will be an exciting day highlighted, by a 2 hour boat ride in a hand- woven bamboo row boat down the Tam Coc streams enjoying spectacular scenery surrounded by rice paddies and towering limestone mountain peaks. After lunch served at a local riverside restaurant we make a short transfer (4 km) down a peaceful country road to Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital eleven centuries ago. Here, there are two temples dedicated to King Dinh and King Le, the founders of the ancient capital during the 10th century. Return to Hanoi around 5:00 pm.8:30 pm: Transfer from an prearranged meeting spot to the station for your night train to Sapa.

: All meals Car / bus Entrance fee(s), Tour Guide, Hotel, AC train tickets

.The train arrives in Lao Cai at about 6:30 am where your PanViet guide will welcome you. Look for the “PanViet Travel” sign when you exit the train station. Then take a morning drive through the clouds by car / bus to Sapa (about 1.5 hours).

When you arrive in Sapa you will be taken to a local restaurant for a morning shower & breakfast. Then we will take a short ride from Sapa to our trekking base where we start our trek through terraced rice fields and Hmong villages. Chances to meet and talk with locals working in the fields are plentiful. We will break for a picnic lunch en route then continue trekking to Ta Phin village of the Dao people (4 hours). Your Dao host family will warmly welcome you to their traditional home where we will share in an ethnic style dinner and stay the night.

: Transfer, Tour Guide, All meals, Entrance fee(s), Home-stay

At the first of gleam of daylight, you will see and hear the sounds of morning village life. You can join them in some of their activities, like feeding the animals, cleaning the houses, gardening or preparing breakfast. After breakfast, we will complete our trek on valley route to the main road (4 hours) linking Lao Cai and Sapa. Alternatively, for this long trek, you can choose a short morning wander around the village for about 1 hour, resulting in more time spent with the host family and other villagers. For both options, you will be supported by our car / bus back to Sapa (30 minutes).
When we arrive back in Sapa we will check in to the hotel, shower, and have lunch. At 2:30 pm we will visit the gardens of beautiful Ham Rong mountain & take part in a traditional ethnic music performance put on by the ethnic minority people. Then return at your own leisure with free time to discover the secrets of this colorful town. Overnight at the hotel in Sapa town.

: Transfer, Tour Guide, Hotel, All meals

Morning preparations, breakfast, check-out, then it is time to take a wonderful journey by jeep. We will go up and over Tram Ton pass and then descend, zig-zagging to the valley below. The views on this trip are absolutely incredible! Our destination is Tam Duong, but before we get there we will visit Binh Lu and see hilltribe people carrying with them their hand crafted products or leading animals on the way to market. You will be free to wonder around but please be respectful of the people here as they are reluctant to have their picture taken without permission. This area has not seen many tourists. We will have lunch here, then continue through the untouched villages with frequent stops to visit and talk to the locals. Overnight in Tam Duong.

: Transfer, Tour Guide, Hotel, All meals.

Breakfast then back in the jeep for the uphill climb back to Sapa. Time for capture yesterday\’s missed photographs of this fabulous areas. If this day falls on Sunday then 2 beautiful markets can be visited on our way.

You will return to Sapa in late afternoon and finally depart for the Lao Cai train station at 5:30 pm. The train leaves Lao Cai at 8:50 pm and arrives after a pleasant sleep in your first class, shared AC soft berth to Hanoi by 4:30 am.

: Transfer, Tour Guide, Hotel, all meals

When you arrive in Hanoi a very short walk will get you to a prearranged hotel for you to shower and a take a short rest before we start our next day. At 8:00 am we will pick you up, by private car/ bus, at the hotel and begin our journey to Halong city. After 3.5 hours driving and viewing simple, country side, rice paddy life, we arrive at the at port. Board your private boat, an authentic Chinese Junk, and start your amazing cruise through this World Heritage Site. Lunch is served onboard, a selection of the freshest seafood. We visit \”the amazing cave\”, followed by a swim in the tranquility of Halong Bay and its emerald water. We will cruise further into a quiet area where we will anchor and stay overnight. Dinner and relax as the sun sets. Then you are free to swim in the phosphorous water, retire to your cabin, or fall asleep under the stars amidst the magic of Halong on the top deck.Hotel for shower

: Transfer, Tour Guide, Hotel, Private cabin on junk, All meals, Entrance fee(s)

Wake up early in the morning for a great sunrise and a breath of fresh ocean air. Breakfast served on boat then we do a leisurely cruise through thousands of seemingly never ending islands. These are great opportunities to capture some amazing photographs.

We stop to visit a floating fishing village and listen to some legendary stories of the fishermen\’s daily life. Take one last swim somewhere in the middle of the bay to refresh before cruising back to the Halong city pier. By noon we be ashore and break for lunch at a local restaurant. Then we hit the road back to Hanoi. We arrive and finish our tour at your hotel by 5:00 pm.

: Transfer, Tour Guide, Hotel, alll meals

Today is your free day in the Hanoi capital and all of its fascinating historical charm. Spend your day relaxing or shopping. Some suggestions include waking up early (about 6:00 am) and joining in the some exercise around Hoan Kiem Lake; or taking a cyclo tour around the Old Quarter for a different point of view; or visiting the numerous markets, shopping, and trying all of the street side traditional foods.

Board your 11:00 pm night train, AC soft sleeper to Hue.

: AC soft tickets, Breafast

Arrival in Hue at 10:00 am then transfer to your Hotel. After morning preparations we will go on a relaxing cyclo or bicycle tour. We will also visit the Forbidden Purple City and Dong Ba market. Overnight in Hue.

: Transfer, Tour Guide, Hotel, Lunch, Dinner

Getting started at 9:30 am from your hotel, we walk and transfer to the boat dock for cruising on the Perfume River viewing the city and the tranquil villages on the riverbank. Walk up to visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, overlooking the Perfume River and the beautiful scenery beyond. Take some time here to learn about the influences of Buddhism in Vietnam.
Leave Hue in the evening by a car/ bus for Hoian. From here it will take us about 4 hours to get to Hoian. There is fabulous sightseeing en route and we may make stops at: Lang Co beach, Hai Van pass, Cham Museum, and the Marble mountains. Then onto Hoian, overnight here.

: Transfer, Tour Guide, Hotel, Boat cruise, Entrance fee(s), All meals

The center of Vietnam is home to many of World Heritage Sites and Hoian is one of them. Here in this ancient town of Hoian, 30 km south of Danang, lies on the banks of the Thu Bon River.

Occupied by early western traders in the 16th century, Hoian has a distinct Chinese atmosphere with low, tile-roofed houses and narrow streets. The original structure of some of these streets still remain almost fully intact. All the houses were made of rare wood, decorated with colorful lacquered details and panels engraved with Chinese characters. Always a favorite place!

: Transfer, Tour Guide, Hotel, Entrance fee(s), All meals

Breakfast at the hotel then transfer to the airport in Da Nang for noon-flight to Nha Trang. A taxi takes you to your hotel, it is free to chill out on the beautiful white sand beach.

: Transfer, Tour Guide, Hotel, Car / bus, flight, Entrance fee(s)

Morning pick up from hotel and transfer to the boat station (45 minutes). Hop on the boat and begin a day on the water. The first stop will be at Mum Island. This is one of the best places for snorkeling in Nha Trang. Hold your breath for as long as you can and dive deep into this colorful world of fish and coral. Next stop, Tam Island, for sun bathing and relaxing on the off shore beach. Lunch will be served at a nearby fishing village with a selection of fresh seafood. After the lunch we will visit Tri Nguyen Aquarium then take the boat back to Nha Trang city. Free time in the evening and overnight at your hotel.
Note: We may need to fly to Saigon this afternoon (4:45 pm) if our next morning flight is not available.

: Transfer, Tour Guide, Hotel, Boat, Entrance fee(s), Breafast, lunch

We take an early flight this morning at 7:45 am, arriving to Saigon at 8:40 am, transfer down town and check-in at our hotel before our city tour of this bustling Saigon started. Visit the Binh Tay Market in Cho Lon; stopover at Thien Hau, a 150 year old Chinese Temple; then to a Lacquer wares workshop and the Jade Emperor pagoda. In the afternoon visit the War Remnants Museum, the Notre Dame Cathedral and the historic Central Post Office, we’ll drop you off at your hotel around 5:30 pm.

: Transfer, Tour Guide, Hotel, Flight, Entrance fee(s), All meals

Departing Saigon at 8:30 am from your hotel for a morning excursion to Tay Ninh to the Great Cao Dai Temple (a place to worship a mixture of Buddhism, Confucius, Taoism, Hinduism and Christianity). We see the noon mass at the temple (1 hour). Lunch in Tay Ninh.
In the afternoon we visit the Cu Chi outdoor museum to learn about the infamous tunnel systems of the Viet Cong. Take this opportunity to get a unique understanding of the guerillas underground fight strategies during the war and crawl through 50 – 100 meters of the 200 km tunnel system. On the way back to Saigon, local rice paper workshops, and views of Vietnam country side and paddy fields are pleasant sights. We’ll drop you off at your hotel.

: Transfer, Tour Guide, Hotel, Entrance fee(s), All meals

Depart Saigon at 8:00 am from your hotel. Head south to Cai Be. Upon arrival at 10:30 am, board a boat for a journey through the Mekong\’s floating market. See how river life goes on here, watch the trading between merchant ships and local farmers. Alive and exciting. Cruise through the secluded canals and cross the Mighty Mekong to an island where we will stop to enjoy fresh seasonal fruit before boating to Vinh Long. Back on the bus for our trip to Can Tho to overnight.
: Transfer, Tour Guide, Hotel, Entrance fee(s), Boat, All meals

An early start for a boat trip to Cai Rang floating market, then we have some distance to cover. First a cruise, then a walk on a quiet country road taking in the magnificent scenery and getting a little bit closer to the locals as they go about their daily routine. We take a trip by \”xe loi\” which is a local colonial-era cab pulled by motorbike and tour the country side. In the afternoon we head back to Saigon. At your same Saigon hotel by 6:00 pm.

: Transfer, Tour Guide, Hotel, Entrance fee(s), Boat, All meals

Breakfast at the hotel then a day at your leisure in Saigon. Today is a great day for you to relax, shop, take a cyclo tour, and finish any last preparations before you take your flight home the next day.BreakfastHotelDay 21: Departure Saigon, Goodbye Vietnam
Breakfast at hotel. Depending on your flight you may have sometime for some more shopping. Then we will transfer you to the airport for your flight home. Goodbye and hope to see you again soon!

: Transfer, Tour Guide

Prices ($ US)

Your price when;
Standard
Superior
Deluxe

you are 2 persons:
1773 / person
2023 / person
2374 / person

you are 4 persons:
1478 / person
1737 / person
2088 / person

All as mentioned above.
Budget for 1 star hotel, Standard is 2-3 stars, Superior is from 3-4 stars, Deluxe is at 4-5 stars hotels.
Travel insurance, drinks, items of a personal nature, tips and gratitude, others not mentioned in the inclusion box.
: Passport with a valid visa, sun hat, sunglasses, sun cream, insect repellent, good shoes for some hiking, camera with lots of films.

Find More Halong Vietnam Articles

(PRWEB) May 15, 2009

To celebrate “the Year’s Best” of tourism products and services in the tourism and hospitality sector in Vietnam with The Guide Awards 2009. With award winning service, The Luxury Travel Company has just launched a new pure luxury tour ” Vietnam’s Heritage and Cultural Tour 12 days” with optional extension to Wonder of Angkor Temples, Cambodia.

The Luxury Travel Company (http://www.luxurytravelvietnam.com ) is Vietnam ‘s first luxury tour company and full travel service agency. Luxury Travel is experienced in providing special services and unique tourism products to luxury global travelers.

Start in colonial and charming Hanoi, Vietnam’s tangible and intangible heritage. Explore the fascinating Old Quarter and its hundreds of specialty shops selling silk clothing, lacquerware, embroidered linens, furniture, bamboo, cooking utensils, ceremonial objects and more. Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake , ride a cyclo to dinner, and watch a performance of at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater.

Full day city tour Hanoi . Enjoy people watching at stylish cafes. Shop for impressive modern art in the city’s many galleries. Also visit Hanoi ‘s main cultural attractions, including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, his House on Stilts, the One Pillar Pagoda, the Fine Arts Museum and the Temple of Literature, Vietnam Ethnology Museum . Dine in French colonial villas converted into upscale gourmet restaurants.

Next, guests take a 2 day trip to Halong City with one night on Deluxe Cruise on the famous Halong Bay Natural World Heritage where thousands of limestone rock sculptures jut dramatically from the sea and numerous grottoes have created an ephemeral, fantastic landscape.

Next, fly to Hue , the former Imperial capital that is a quiet city renowned for the magnificent architecture of its citadel, palaces, royal tombs, pagodas and temples, built under the Nguyen dynasty on the banks of the Perfume River .

Enjoy a Royal banquet dinner in this former Imperial Capital to enrich your experience in Hue, one of five World Cultural Heritages of Vietnam .

Drive to Danang via the Hai Van pass to see the My Son World Cultural Heritage. Visit atmospheric Hoi An a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site and riverfront port town crammed with historic homes, tiny museums, cafes, and bustling silk and fish markets.

Fly from Danang to HCMC (formerly Saigon ), the country’s commercial center and home to a growing number of upscale restaurants and shops. Visit Chinatown, the Thien Hau Pagoda, the Reunification Palace , the Opera House and Hotel de Ville. If desired, also visit the powerful War Remnants Museum .

Explore colorful outdoor markets and Dong Khoi Street (guests can come to talk and chat with Luxury Travel Representative http://luxurytravelvietnam.com/main_en.htm as Luxury Travel, Saigon Branch Office is located in this street), the city’s most upscale shopping boulevard with boutiques selling clothes and accessories by new Vietnamese designers, hill tribe crafts, high quality linens and housewares.

Take a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels and watch an unusual, eclectic religious ceremony at the main temple of Cao Dai, a unique fusion of world religions alternatively, spend the day cruising the narrow canals of the Mekong Delta on charming sampan.

“Visit the most highlights of Vietnam, explore four of five World Heritage Listed Sites of Vietnam, savor best typical cuisines of three regions. This trip is designed to discover the very best of Vietnam in term of culture, sightseeing, discovery, comfort and style, this special 12 day tour combining local charm and luxuries from North to South Vietnam which is so unique, special for a life time experience” says Hung Nguyen, Sales and Marketing Manager of Luxury Travel Company.

Tour prices start from USD $ 3.438 net per-person double rates, this includes accommodation costs at deluxe rooms at luxury properties, nearly all meals, regional flights, private transfers, private pick up and drop off service. The tour can be booked at last minute, and can be customized to suit individual interests and schedules. Guests can make an extension to the marvelous Angkor Temples, Cambodia.

Guests are also free to request helicopter tour, restaurant reservations, meetings with artists, cooking instructors and designers, shopping recommendations, spa reservations, tours with special-interest lecturers, and exclusive access to local activities and cultural events.

Order this unique tour package and travel to Vietnam before 31 Sep 2009 with the company secret code lux4lux, a full payment by master, Visa or American Express Cards guests get 5% discount and 1 Extra night FREE OF CHARGE at Sofitel Metropole Hanoi and a complimentary Vietnam visa pick up on arrival.

Check it out at http://www.luxurytravelvietnam.com/EN/GE/special_offers.htm

This week, we venture back to Asia for a taste of exotic flavors and sights. Today’s guest post is from David Jr of Malaysia Asia blog, an online resource on all things Southeast Asian. Here, he shares with us some essential things to do at one of his favorite spots in Asia – Halong Bay, Vietnam.

Almost every traveler who visits Southeast Asia makes it a point to visit Halong Bay: a picturesque bay set amidst emerald waters and craggy limestone cliffs. Next to Ho Chi Minh City, Halong Bay is right up the list of must-see destinations for travelers in the region

So what can one do around Halong Bay besides taking that once-in-a-lifetime cruise into the UNESCO World Heritage site here? Fear no more as I had one extra day around Halong City when I visited Halong Bay, Vietnam recently. So here are 5 things you can do around Halong Bay if you have time to kill waiting for your junk boat cruise.

Bai Chay Tourist Wharf. It is here that most of the travelers will arrive at before heading out on the Halong Bay Overnight Cruise. Depending on your departure time, you may or may not have time to explore the area.

Try some Vietnamese Coffee the Cafe 555 opposite the Bai Chay Tourist Wharf. Well, you need to walk about 100 meters to your right if you exit Bai Chay. The cafe is located in between a row of shops by the main road. They serve some potent coffee here so if you are a coffee lover, you hit jackpot here. If you don’t drink coffee, they have other drinks there too.

Try the Cafe Kinh Moi Karaoke just further down the road from Cafe 555. Start your karaoke sessions early if you must here. Singing is inside but if you so desire to do it outside, by all means.

Take a taxi to Halong City and visit the Halong Market. This market is right in the heart of Halong City and you cannot walk there unless you have a few hours to spare. Best would be to take a taxi there. Once here, explore the dry and wet market. A number of interesting items can be seen here while it would be wise to stock up on snacks and drinks for your Halong Bay Cruise.

 Indulge in the local Vietnamese food and drinks at Halong City. In and around the Halong Market, there are quite a number of exotic foods available if you are up to it. One of the must-try items are the Squid Cakes which are similar to Thai Fish Cakes, these are sold in the open area behind Halong Market.

A number of stalls sell them and they are reasonably cheap and quite tasty. If you walk around the wet market area, you will come across various local foods and delicacies. One of them, the deep fried mini crabs sold cooked or raw. Also, if you have an iron stomach, try some of the local mixed rice dishes and finally wash it down with some local Vietnamese Herbal Drinks. Don’t forget to buy some local fruits for your Halong Bay Overnight Cruise trip.

 
 Take a walk to the Halong Bay Casino (Royal International Casino). This super small and only casino in Halong Bay can be seen just located by the main road to Bai Chay. Walking here can take you about 10-15 minutes from the wharf. Foreigners need to show your passport to enter and there is no deposit required.

A coffee lounge with slot machines on the ground floor is open to all while there are two gambling halls, one on the ground floor which is closed on weekdays while the main hall is up on the first floor. So small that I walked round it in less than two minutes. So if you’re feeling lucky, head on to the Halong Bay Casino.

Wild Junket

Indochina Sails

Hanoi, Vietnam (PRWEB) November 12, 2008

Vietnam is emerging in the travel world map as safety and attractive destination in Asia. Most people want to know when to travel to Vietnam and who to contact with due to a bulk of travel agencies on internet?

Good time to travel in Vietnam is from September to June. However, Vietnam has three different regions – the North, the Central and the South – each with different weather patterns and different rainy seasons. This means that there is neither a best time nor a worst time to visit Vietnam. Hot summer or cold winter is not that a big deal. Beaches such as Halong bay, Hoi an, Nha trang, Mui ne – Phan thiet, Phu quoc are always available. Sapa and Dalat highland offer great places for cool temperature. You can find your favourite kind of weather all year round!

HANDETOUR is a Vietnam professional tour operator, a very good recommendation for high quality travel services and fast response.

HANDETOUR or Hanoi Trading & Tourist Development Join Stock Company is a Professional Inbound Tour Operator, based in Hanoi Capital – Vietnam, specializing in High Quality leisure and cultural tours, and also providing tourists with quality accommodation – hotels, resorts and residence at 3 star rating upwards, visa, ticket, transport, guide, mice, special intererest tours and other travel services within Vietnam.

With experience in Tourism Industry since 2001, Handetour not only provide full travel information, High Quality travel services, but also give you the confidence that you are not going to miss something along the way as you travel in Vietnam.

Cambodia tours, Laos tours and Indochina combined tours are also offered to meet with your needs.

Handetour goals: