ABSOLUTE VIETNAM

Introduction

Our Absolute Vietnam holiday is the perfect way to experience this magnificent country in a unique and adventurous way. Sail through Hạlong Bay’s infinite towering limestone rocks and calming waters, hike past rolling rice terraces and visiting hilltribes in Sapa, explore Hanoi; one of the most ancient cities in the world and cruise through the rivers and canals of the Mekong Delta, also known as the “Rice Bowl” of Vietnam. Finally, reflect on this Ultimate Vietnam adventure while relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Phu Quoc island.

Day-by-Day

Day 1 & 2: Hanoi

Arrive in Hanoi - the bustling capital of Vietnam. The city offers an abundance of activities. Go on a tour featuring the city’s most iconic landmarks - including Ba Dinh Square, Lenin Garden and the millennia-old Temple of Literature. Stroll around the charming Hoan Kiem Lake to escape the noise and traffic of the city and pay a visit to a Hanoian family, where they will welcome you with herbal tea and share personal family stories. 

Day 3: Hanoi & Lao Cai - Sapa

Start your day with an exciting biking tour around Hanoi. Cycle through the small back alleys of Bac Bien Village and observe traditional local houses, lively markets, ancient pagodas and ancient temples. Later in the day, head to Hanoi train station, where you catch an overnight train to the city of Lao Cai.

Day 4: Lao Cai

In the morning, arrive in Lao Cai and head to a restaurant for a delicious breakfast. Experience a local market that offers a diversity of produce, including live animals such as Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs. Observe the life of a hill-tribe village by visiting their homes and learning about their culture. In the evening, transfer to the former hill station of Sapa and spend the night.  

Day 5: Sapa

Today is all about hiking! Leave your accommodation and drive around 15 minutes to Sa Seng Village. Hike past rolling rice terraces, lush bamboo forests and mountains as far as the eye can see. The highlight of the hike is visiting the village of the Black Hmong people, where you can learn about their ethnic culture and the farming of rice and corn. Don’t forget to snap some pictures of Muong Hoa Valley and the highest mountain in Vietnam - Fansipan.

Day 6 & 7: Halong Bay

Spend a relaxing morning in Sapa before heading back to Hanoi. The next day, drive four hours to the majestic Hạlong Bay. After a warm welcome onboard the boat, enjoy a freshly prepared lunch, slowly cruising through the emerald waters and mysterious rock formations. Participate in water activities or simply relax onboard. After dinner, spend the evening stargazing at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 8: Halong Bay to Hoi An

Whilst you enjoy your breakfast, cruise slowly back to the port. Upon disembarking, head to Hanoi Airport and catch a domestic flight to Danang.

Day 9: Hoi An

The next morning, wake up in Hoi An and head over to Tra Que herb village. Chat with local farmers and help them with their daily tasks. In the afternoon, take a half-day trip to visit important religious and historical sites in Hoi An. Explore the ancient Champa Kingdom temples and Danang’s Cham Museum, where you can find the finest 7th century Tra Kieu sculptures. 

Day 10 & 11: Da Lat

Start your morning by catching a domestic flight to Da Lat - the city of flowers, beautiful waterfalls and French chalets. Spend the night at your hotel. The following day join a sightseeing tour of Da Lat. Visit the palace of Bao Dai - the last emperor of Vietnam. Check out the unique architecture of the old railway station, visit Xuan Huong Lake and end your day at a bustling central market, which is renowned for its fresh vegetables and fruit. 

Day 12 & 13: Ho Chi Minh City

Jump on a quick flight from Danang airport to Ho Chí Minh City, once known as Saigon city. From visiting the bustling Saigon’s Chinatown district, walking around the busy streets of Cholon and making a wish at a famous Chinese Clan house, to riding a traditional cycle rickshaw and creating your own jewellery piece on Silver Street - you are guaranteed to have some fun and unforgettable adventures. The following day is all about learning about the significance of coffee in Vietnamese culture, visiting an 80-year old coffee warehouse and learning different brewing techniques. Today, you also get a chance to taste a popular Vietnamese noodle dish in a bustling street food market, visit the iconic Saigon Central Post Office and learn about the city’s history at Ho Chí Minh City Museum.

Day 14: Tay Ninh & Cu Chi

Start your day on a beautiful drive to Tay Ninh. En route, observe local farm life by watching locals drying out noodles on the side of the road and farmers cultivating rice in the abundant rice terraces. Visit the great temple of Cao Dai, decorated with ornate architecture. After lunch, visit the famous Cu Chi Tunnels constructed by Vietnamese resistance fighters (Viet Cong) to hide from enemies during the Vietnam War. 

Day 15: Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta is considered “the rice bowl of Vietnam” as it produces half of Vietnam’s rice. Join a boat tour sailing down the Mekong River, watch rural life unfold and enjoy the company of local people. On this tour, you also get an opportunity to bike through small villages, walk through the narrow lanes of a local market and taste some rice wine.

Day 16 – 19: Phu Quoc

Today, board your plane to a stunning island off the coast of Vietnam - Phu Quoc. After exploring the country for almost two weeks, it’s time for some well-deserved “me” time. Spend these days relaxing at your resort, reading your favourite books and sipping cocktails by the pool. On your last day, check out from your hotel and get ready for the flight to Ho Chí Minh City, where you'll catch your final flight back to the UK. 

Prices

From £3,889 per person

Truly Individual Holiday Includes:

• International flights from the UK in Economy
• Domestic flights
• 18 nights accommodation 
• Sightseeing with English speaking guide
• Tours, excursions and entrance fees
• Private transportation

Price based on two people sharing accommodation. Any element of this holiday can be tailor-made to suit you. Simply enquire below!