HGH Tour Programs

Dear Partners and colleagues, On behalf of HGH Travel, I would like to personally thank you for reading our latest brochure. HGH Travel offers innovative and dynamic services to our guests and caters to a wide variety of people from all different backgrounds. We pride ourselves on the quality of service and product that we deliver to every single customer.

HGH Travel is continuously developing and creating new tour programs to keep up with the changing trends of tourism and to appeal to many different markets. It is through our hard work and dedication that we have successfully created a very unique brochure that not only delivers the popular destinations but enables tourists to stay from beaten path and explore the hidden regions of Indochina.

We are proud to deliver to you some of the finest tours available throughout Indochina including Vietnam Luxury, Discover Vietnam, Vietnam Family Adventure, Historical and Cultural Highlights: Vietnam and Cambodia, A Trio of Treasures of Indochina: Vietnam – Laos – Cambodia, and so many more. Our tour packages and services are designed to bring heritage, culture and history to life during visit temples, ruins, pagodas and ethnic minority villages. We also offer special interest tours that allow our guests to enjoy relaxation, adventure and eco tourism as well bringing you closer to the natural beauty of the Indochina countries.

Here at HGH Travel, we are devoted to providing the best experiences possible to every guest. Our staff are committed to ensuring that every guest receives our complete attention to detail. Our booking and sales staff are available to answer any questions or concerns via phone or email. Our tour operators are flexible and offer the opportunity to customize a tour to meet specific criteria. The aim is to make it as memorable an experience possible.

Our tour services range from half day tours to full length grand tours lasting upwards of 17 days. We also range from luxury tours that incorporate fine dining and luxury hotels to programs for those who want to experience the living environments of the ethnic minority people by sharing their homes… Here at HGH Travel, our aim is to understand the dreams of the tourist and make them a reality!

Sincerely, Nguyen Hang Quy General Director HGH TRAVEL

ClassiC images of Vietnam today Routing:

Hanoi – Hoa Lu – Lao Cai – Sapa – Ha Long Bay – Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh – Mekong Delta (13D/12N)

This 13 day tour takes you from the elegance and excitement of Hanoi to the mountainous North with the Ethnic minority groups and spectacular scenery. You will see rock formations unlike anything else in the world in Ha Long Bay and the unique ‘Ha Long Bay on land’ area of Ninh Binh. Moving south to the Central Region, you will visit the ancient capital of Hue, the blossoming town of Da Nang and the awe-inspiring preserved town of Hoi An. Moving further south, we arrive at the modern, lively city of Ho Chi Minh. As well as showing us many jewels itself, this is also a starting point for the amazing Mekong Delta area of rivers and river life.

If you want a north to south look into the life and times of this amazing country, this is the trip for you.

It shows you a range of countryside, the main ‘not to be missed’ tourist hotspots while introducing you to the culture, history and current way of life of the Vietnamese people.

Day 1: Ha Noi On your arrival at the Noi Bai International Airport, you will be welcomed by our guide and driver who will bring you to Hanoi City. Hanoi is over 1000 years old and is currently the capital of Vietnam as well the commercial, political, and cultural heart of the country.

A city tour of Hanoi starts with a visit to the One-Pillar Pagoda. We will then take a drive to visit the Temple of Literature. The temple was built in October 1073 to worship Confucius and is considered to be the first university in Vietnam. We will then drive to Hoan Kiem Lake where you will see Ngoc Son Temple which worships Van Xuong saint and Tran Hung Dao, a former general commander. Hanoi is one of the few places found in this part of the world that has such elegance. Walk down the tree lined boulevards where we see many French influences such as Hanoi Opera House, the State Bank, the former Governor's palace, and the Hanoi Cathedral (Saint Joseph’s built in the late 19th century).

Later in the afternoon, you will get a chance to enjoy a 1-hour cyclo ride around the 36 streets in the Old Quarter of Hanoi followed by a welcome dinner at one of the many local restaurants. After that, you

are free to explore on your own or take it easy and relax in your hotel room. You will spend the night in Hanoi.

Day 2: Ha Noi – Hoa Lu – Ha Noi – Night train to Lao Cai Today you will experience the ancient culture and history of Vietnam as well seeing the stunning landscape and beautiful scenery when we travel to the Ninh Binh Province. This area is known as “Ha Long Bay on land” and is located 80 km South of Hanoi.

We will go for a relaxing sampan ride through the gentle and elegant landscape of plains and mountains leading to the beautiful and mysterious Tam Coc Grottoes followed by a gentle cycle ride (4km) and boat ride to Bich Dong Cave and Pagoda. This journey takes you through breath taking scenery of rice fields and imposing mountains. We then move on to the Thai Vy Temple where we will have lunch. Being built in the 13th century, the Thai Vy Temple offers magnificent insight and depth into the ancient Vietnamese culture. Once departing the Thai Vy Temple, we then head off to Hoa Lu, formally the capital of the Dinh and early Le dynasties between the 10th and 11th centuries.

We will then head back to Ha Noi where, later in the evening, we will enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants before going to see the unique and intriguing Water Puppet Show, a traditional folk performance held on the Red River Delta. At the end of the day, we take the overnight express train from Hanoi to Lao Cai – Sapa. There is a soft bed onboard the train for you to get some sleep.

Day 3: Sapa You will be met at Lao Cai railway station, and taken to a local restaurant for breakfast. You will then be driven the 35kms to the former French Hill Station of Sapa. Sapa sits snugly into the mountain side at 1.560 meters. The drive offers beautiful panoramic scenery of mountains and valleys that are typical of the region. You will take a short trip into Cat Cat Valley where you will meet some of the local H’mong people. Cat Cat is an agricultural community that was founded in the 19 th century and preserves its old architectural monuments such as Pomu timber plank – roofed triple – room houses. You will visit Ham Rong (Dragon Raw) to see a fantastic view of the town and rice paddy fields on terraces that are carved out of the mountainside. Moving on, you will visit one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Sapa, the Silver Waterfall. Finally, you will head back to the hotel in Sapa where you will then be able to relax in your hotel room for the night.

Day 4: Sapa – Lao Cai – Night train back to Ha Noi Today we will take you on an excursion to a local Ethnic minority market. Depending on the day of the week, we may visit Bac Ha Market (only held on Sunday) or Can Cau Market (only held on Saturday). It

is a precious opportunity for you to take photos of the colorful market before heading back to Lao Cao for the night train back to Hanoi.

Day 5: Ha Noi – Ha Long In the morning, we leave Hanoi and travel to the astonishing and mystical Ha Long Bay which is described by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and is one of the most beautiful places in the region.

Located in the Gulf of Tonkin, it is an spectacular collection of 2,000 islands covering an area in excess of 1,500km. This forms a spectacular seascape of limestone pillars and cliff faces.

Our crew will welcome you on board with drinks and a fresh seafood lunch. You will check into your cabins and start cruising around the bay to see the amazing rock formations (karsts). You will cruise towards Bai Tu Long Bay, passing the towns of Hon Gai and Cam Pha, Oan Lagoon, Mat Quy (Monster Head) and Am Tich (Teapot) Islets and Vung Vieng fishing village.

We will explore the mystery of Sung Sot Cave which is one of the most beautiful caves in Ha Long Bay. Later on, you will have plenty of time for swimming and kayaking to the Tunnel Cave. During the evening, relax to the casual and comfortable atmosphere held on the luxury boat where you will have an elegant dining experience. If we are in the right season, we can see fresh squid being caught the traditional way.

Get your cameras ready for a spectacular sunset, lounge under the clear, star filled sky and retire to your cabin at your leisure where you will spend the night on the luxury boat near a remote island.

Day 6: Ha Long – Ha Noi After breakfast, we will continue to cruise through the karsts some of which display fantastic and mystical shapes before getting into a small boat to visit the Luon Cave. Back on board for an early lunch before saying goodbye to our boat and crew and heading back on the road to Hanoi stopping off at the Bat Trang ceramics and pottery village. The village sells all kinds of ceramics, embroidery and marble statues.

Dinner will be served at the “Rung” Restaurant. You will stay the rest of the night in Ha Noi. Day 7: Ha Noi  Hue After breakfast, you will be transferred to Noi Bai Airport to catch the flight to Hue City in the central region of Vietnam. During the Nguyen Dynasty (1802 – 1945), Hue was the political, economic and cultural capital of Vietnam.

Our tour of Hue starts at the beautiful Imperial Citadel, a World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO since 1993. Here we will see the Imperial City and Forbidden City, the home of previous Emperors. Enjoy the various palaces, ornate halls, libraries, residences, colleges, Flag Tower and Noon Gate. After the

Citadel, we go to the Truong Tien Bridge and traditional Dong Ba Market which is rarely seen anywhere in the world. The Dong Ba Market is a typical market of centuries ago where vendors sprawl their goods out for you where you can walk and select the items you want. Dinner will be served at Y Thao Garden Restaurant. You will stay the rest of the night in Hue. Day 8: Hue We spend the entire day exploring ancient Hue and finding its beauties and marvels. We first start off by taking a boat trip down the romantic Perfume River to the Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the oldest and most beautiful pagodas in Hue. After that we move on to see the Minh Mang Tomb who was emperor of Vietnam from 1820 to 1841. Enjoy a vegetarian lunch and take the chance to chat with the nuns to learn more about Buddhism and gain insight into their daily lives and their calligraphy art.

In the afternoon, we will start our journey by heading to the outskirts of Hue to explore the Tu Duc Tomb.

On the way back to Hue, you will get to see a traditional village where they make conical hats and incense.

Enjoy dinner and relax to traditional folk music on the mystic dragon boats down the beautiful Perfume River. You will spend the night in Hue. Day 9: Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An Out of ancient Hue and into a more modern setting of Da Nang then onto the exotic Hoi An. You will depart from Hue and travel to the rapidly growing city of Da Nang. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to stop en route to take pictures at the summit of Lang Co Beach, Hai Van Pass and visit the Cham Museum located in Danang City. The museum offers the most extensive collection of Cham art sculptures throughout the world. The sculptures date from the 7th to the 15th century.

Finally, you will head to Hoi An, another UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Dinner will be served at Sakura Restaurant, a beautiful Japanese – Vietnamese restaurant on the banks of the Thu Bon River. You will spend the night in Hoi An. Day 10: Hoi An Today we enjoy a walking tour through the narrow and ancient streets of this charming town. Perhaps more than any other place in Vietnam, Hoi An retains the feel of centuries past. Once known as Faifo, Hoi An was an influential port along the Silk Road. For over 500 years, merchants from China, Japan, France and Portugal settled in the prosperous town resulting in a distinctive blend of culture, cuisine, religions and architecture. In 1999, the town was declared an UNESCO World Heritage Site listed for having the most unique architecture in Southeast Asia. It has been restored and protected by both the UNESCO funding and proud locals ever since. Lunch will be served at the Cargo Restaurant.

The rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy at your leisure. (Optional: Visit My Son sanctuary which was the site of religious ceremonies of kings of the Champa dynasty, and was also a burial place of Champa royals and national heroes. Though the complex has been destroyed over time, we still see many majestic ancient ruins of temples in the area). You will spend the night in Hoi An. Day 11: Hoi An – Da Nang  Ho Chi Minh City In the morning, you will be able to walk around Hoi An and take in the beauty of this magnificent town.

You are free to go shopping and eat lunch at any of the wonderful restaurants. In the afternoon, we leave Central Vietnam and head for the more fast-paced modernized city of Ho Chi Minh City, formally known as “Saigon”. We drive back to Da Nang to catch the flight to Ho Chi Minh where you will be picked up and brought to check into your hotel.

The HCM tour starts with a visit to the imposing Dong Khoi Street (formerly Rue Catinat). Next we will go to the Notre Dame Cathedral, the most famous landmark in Vietnam as the twin bell towers can be seen from a long distance. In the same square is the famous Saigon Post Office, the largest functioning post office in Vietnam. What makes this Post Office so extraordinary is that it was designed and built by Gustave Eiffel who also designed and built the Eiffel Tower and Statue of Liberty. It is a building not to be missed.

After some history and culture, we will take you to do some shopping at the Ben Thanh Market. The rest of the night is yours to venture out on your own or take it easy and relax in your hotel room.

Day 12: HCM City – Vinh Long – HCM City We leave Ho Chi Minh City for a beautiful scenic drive through the Mekong River Delta, home to the richest agricultural lands in Vietnam. Enjoy a boat trip to an island that houses orchard gardens and the beautiful Cai Be floating market, a famous place in the Mekong Delta. The Cai Be floating market is a magnificent site to see as hundreds of small merchant boats anchor alongside the banks of the river trading their commodities. We continue with our cruise through the maze of canals that crisscross around An Binh island.

Lunch is served at Mr. Muoi Huong old house. We can enjoy the delicious fresh tropical fruits of the Delta as we continue to cruise through islands and cross the Mekong River to Vinh Long (2km). On our way back to Ho Chi Minh City, we will visit the bonsai garden. Enjoy dinner with delicious dishes and elegant music. You will spend the night in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 13: HCM City – Departure

After breakfast, there is a half day tour around the city and a visit to the Thien Hau Temple. Thien Hau is a 16th century Chinese temple in Cholon, which is dedicated to Thien Hau or the goddess of the sea who is said to protect fishermen and sailors. A trip to the War Remnants Museum will introduce some culture but some history as you experience this tribute to the Vietnam War. Lunch will be served at Chateau 1 Restaurant. In the early evening, it is time to go to the airport to catch the flight home.

Vietnam essentials Routing:

Ho Chi Minh – Mekong Delta – Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An – Ha Noi – Hoa Lu – Ha Long Bay

(10D/9N) This 10 day trip takes you from the economic and trendsetting centre of HCM of the south to the Capital City of Hanoi in the north and the ‘must see’ places in between. You will see the river life of the people of the Mekong Delta before travelling to the central region of Da Nang, Hue and the charming town of Hoi An. Moving towards Hanoi, you will first take in the splendor of the Ninh Binh area with its rivers and spectacular landscape and ancient history. And on to Ha Long Bay where you will see mystical and breath taking mountains rising in spectacular fashion out of the sea. And finally to the beautiful city of Hanoi before taking your leave of this extraordinary country of variation, fascinating places and beautiful people.

Day 1: Arrival Ho Chi Minh City Upon your arrival at the Tan Son Nhat International Airport, you will be picked up and transferred to check into your hotel (early check-in is subject to the hotel’s availability). Being the heart and soul of South Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh is a bustling, dynamic and industrious city. It is not only the largest city but also the economic capital and trendsetter of Vietnam.

After lunch, you will experience the city tour where you see some of the most magnificent sites and architecture found in Vietnam. You will start off by visiting to the imposing Dong Khoi Street (formerly Rue Catinat) before going to the Notre Dame Cathedral. This is the most famous landmark in Vietnam as the twin bell towers can be seen from a long distance. In the same square is the famous Saigon Post Office, the largest functioning post office in Vietnam. What makes this Post Office so extraordinary is that it was designed and built by Gustave Eiffel who also designed and built the Eiffel Tower and Statue of Liberty. This is a building not to be missed.

We will take you to do some shopping at the Cho Lon Market – China town. Dinner will be served at one of the local restaurants. The rest of the night is yours to venture out on your own or take it easy and relax in your hotel room.

Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City – Vinh Long – Ho Chi Minh City We leave Ho Chi Minh City for a beautiful scenic drive through the Mekong River Delta, home to the richest agricultural lands in Vietnam. Enjoy a boat trip to an island that houses orchard gardens and the beautiful Cai Be floating market, a famous place in the Mekong Delta. The Cai Be floating market is a magnificent site to see as hundreds of small merchant boats anchor alongside the banks of the river trading their commodities. We continue with our cruise through the maze of canals that crisscross around An Binh island.

Lunch is served at Mr. Muoi Huong old house. We can enjoy the delicious fresh tropical fruits of the Delta as we continue to cruise through islands and cross the Mekong River to Vinh Long (2km). On our way back to Ho Chi Minh City, we will visit the bonsai garden. Enjoy dinner with delicious dishes and elegant music. You will spend the night in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 3: Ho Chi Minh City  Hue After breakfast, there is a half day tour around the city and a visit to the Thien Hau Temple. Thien Hau is a 16th century Chinese temple in Cholon, which is dedicated to Thien Hau or the goddess of the sea who is said to protect fishermen and sailors. A trip to the War Remnants Museum will introduce some culture but some history as you experience this tribute to the Vietnam War. Lunch will be served at Chateau 1 Restaurant.

In the early afternoon, you will be transferred to Tan Son Nhat Airport to catch the flight to Hue City in the Central region of Vietnam. Hue was the political, economic and cultural capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty (1802 – 1945) and used to be the home of past emperors.

Our tour of Hue starts at the beautiful Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site since 1993. The Citadel includes the Imperial City and Forbidden City. Enjoy the various palaces, ornate halls, libraries, residences, colleges, Flag Tower and Noon Gate. We then visit the traditional Dong Ba Market, a typical market that has existed in this way for centuries. Vendors sprawl their goods out for you where you can walk and select the items you want. Dinner will be served at Y Thao Garden Restaurant. You will stay the rest of the night in Hue. Day 4: Hue We spend the entire day exploring ancient Hue and finding its beauties and marvels. We first start off by taking a boat trip down the romantic Perfume River to the Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the oldest and most beautiful pagodas in Hue. After that we move on to see the Minh Mang Tomb who was emperor of

Vietnam from 1820 to 1841. Enjoy a vegetarian lunch and take the chance to chat with the nuns to learn more about Buddhism and gain insight into their daily lives and their calligraphy art.

In the afternoon, we will start our journey by heading to the outskirts of Hue to explore the Tu Duc Tomb.

On the way back to Hue, you will get to see a traditional village where they make conical hats and incense.

Enjoy dinner and relax to traditional folk music on the mystic dragon boats down the beautiful Perfume River. You will spend the night in Hue. Day 5: Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An Out of ancient Hue and into a more modern setting of Da Nang then onto the exotic Hoi An. You will depart from Hue and travel to the rapidly growing city of Da Nang. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to stop en route to take pictures at the summit of Lang Co Beach, Hai Van Pass and visit the Cham Museum located in Danang City. This offers the most extensive collection of Cham art sculptures throughout the world. The sculptures date from the 7 th to the 15th century. Finally, you will head to Hoi An, another UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Dinner will be served at Sakura Restaurant, a beautiful Japanese – Vietnamese restaurant on the banks of the Thu Bon River. You will spend the night in Hoi An. Day 6: Hoi An Today offers a full day tour of this beautiful and ancient town. Hoi An comes to life and offers tourists a chance to go shopping and relax at some of the local restaurants. In the morning, we will take a casual walk to tour the Chinese Assembly Halls, the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge and the old family houses all of which have been sensitively preserved. Lunch is served at the local restaurant.

Take the whole afternoon to relax and be lazy on the beach or be adventurous and set of and explore the surroundings of Hoi An by bicycle, visit the local market or take a trip down the river: the choice is yours.

Day 7: Hoi An – Da Nang  Ha Noi – Hoa Lu After breakfast, we will say goodbye to Hoi An and head back to Da Nang to catch the flight to Ha Noi. Upon your arrival, you will be picked up and transferred directly to Ninh Binh which is described as “Ha Long Bay on land” . It is located 80 km South of Hanoi.

Today you will experience some of the ancient culture and history of Vietnam as well seeing the stunning and beautiful landscapes. We will start the tour by going for a relaxing sampan ride through the gentle and elegant landscape of plains and mountains which lead us to the beautiful and mysterious Tam Coc Grottoes. A gentle cycle ride (4km) to Bich Dong Cave and onto another boat ride where you can revel in the beautiful scenery of rice fields and imposing mountains en route to the Bich Dong Pagoda.

Next stop is the Thai Vy Temple for lunch. Being built in the 13 th century, the Thai Vy Temple offers magnificent insight and depth into the ancient Vietnamese culture and architecture. Once departing the

Thai Vy Temple, we then head off to Hoa Lu, formally the capital of the Dinh and early Le dynasties between the 10th and 11th centuries.

We will then head back to Ha Noi where, later in the evening, we will enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants before going to see the unique and intriguing Water Puppet Show, a traditional folk performance held on the Red River Delta.

Day 8: Ha Noi – Ha Long In the morning, we leave Hanoi and travel to the astonishing and mystical Ha Long Bay which is described by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and is one of the most beautiful places in the region.

Located in the Gulf of Tonkin, it is an spectacular collection of 2,000 islands covering an area in excess of 1,500km. This forms a spectacular seascape of limestone pillars and cliff faces.

Our crew will welcome you on board with drinks and a fresh seafood lunch. You will check into your cabins and start cruising around the bay to see the amazing rock formations (karsts). You will cruise towards Bai Tu Long Bay, passing the towns of Hon Gai and Cam Pha, Oan Lagoon, Mat Quy (Monster Head) and Am Tich (Teapot) Islets and Vung Vieng fishing village.

We will explore the mystery of Sung Sot Cave which is one of the most beautiful caves in Ha Long Bay. Later on, you will have plenty of time for swimming and kayaking to the Tunnel Cave. During the evening, relax to the casual and comfortable atmosphere held on the luxury boat where you will have an elegant dining experience. If we are in the right season, we can see fresh squid being caught the traditional way. Get your cameras ready for a spectacular sunset, lounge under the clear, star filled sky and retire to your cabin at your leisure where you will spend the night on the luxury boat near a remote island.

Day 9: Ha Long – Ha Noi After breakfast, we will continue to cruise through the karsts some of which display fantastic and mystical shapes before getting into a small boat to visit the Luon Cave. Back on board for an early lunch before saying goodbye to our boat and crew and heading back on the road to Hanoi stopping off at the Bat Trang ceramics and pottery village. The village sells all kinds of ceramics, embroidery and marble statues.

Dinner will be served at the “Rung” Restaurant. You will stay the rest of the night in Ha Noi. Day 10: Ha Noi – Departure A city tour of Hanoi starts with a visit to the One-Pillar Pagoda. We will then take a drive to visit the Temple of Literature. The temple was built in October 1073 to worship Confucius and is considered to be the first university in Vietnam. We will then drive to Hoan Kiem Lake where you will see Ngoc Son Temple which worships Van Xuong saint and Tran Hung Dao, a former general commander. Hanoi is one

of the few places found in this part of the world that has such elegance. Walk down the tree lined boulevards where we see many French influences such as Hanoi Opera House, the State Bank, the former Governor's palace, and the Hanoi Cathedral which was built in late 19th century (Cathedral Saint Joseph).

Later in the afternoon, you will get a chance to enjoy a 1-hour cyclo ride around the 36 streets in the Old Quarter of Hanoi followed by a welcome dinner at one of the many local restaurants. After that, you are free to venture out on your own or take it easy and relax in your hotel room. You will spend the night in Hanoi.

You are then free to shop, relax and do whatever you would like at your leisure until you are transferred to Noi Bai Airport for your departure flight.

Vietnam By Road Hanoi – Ha Long Bay – Ninh Binh – Vinh City – Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park – Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An – Nha Trang – Da Lat – Ho Chi Minh City – Cu Chi – Tay Ninh – Mekong Delta

Routing:

(15D/14N) So you want more!? A 15 day trip by road will take you from the Capital City of Hanoi in the north to the economic and trendsetting centre of HCM of the south as well as the ‘must see’ places in between.

This trip also includes some of the ‘harder to get to’ places if it were dependant on planes and trains to travel the length and breadth of the country.

You will see rock formations unlike anything else in the world in Ha Long Bay and the unique ‘Ha Long Bay on land’ area of Ninh Binh. From Ninh Binh you will travel to Vinh City, the birth place of Hoi Chi Minh and then to Phong Nha and the unmissable Ke Bang National Park. Continuing south, you visit the ancient capital of Hue, the blossoming town of Da Nang and the awe-inspiring preserved town of Hoi An. The fabulous beaches, clear water and colourful marine life (as well as the delicious sea food) are there for you in Nha Trang before making the journey inland to the romantic and elegant atmosphere of the hill town of Da Lat. The southern part of the trip takes you to the modern, lively city of Ho Chi Minh and surrounding areas and onto the unique Mekong Delta.

Day 1: Ha Noi – Arrival

On your arrival at the Noi Bai International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide and driver who will take you to your hotel in Hanoi. You are then free to relax or explore at your leisure after your long flight.

Day 2: Ha Noi Hanoi is over 1000 years old and is currently the capital of Vietnam as well the commercial, political, and cultural heart of the country.

A city tour of Hanoi starts with a visit to the One-Pillar Pagoda. We then drive to the Temple of Literature built in October 1073 to worship Confucius. This is considered to be the first university in Vietnam. We also will get a chance to explore the multi-faceted features of the 54 ethnic groups who live in Vietnam at the Ethnology Museum. And onto a 1-hour cyclo ride around the 36 streets in the old quarter of Hanoi as well a visit to the Ho Guom (Sword Lake).

During the evening, relax to the traditional folk performance of the Water Puppet Show at the Hanoi Theater. You are then free to venture out on your own or take it easy and relax in your hotel room. You will spend the rest of the night in Hanoi.

Day 3: Ha Noi – Ha Long In the morning, we leave Hanoi and travel to the astonishing and mystical Ha Long Bay which is described by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and is one of the most beautiful places in the region.

Located in the Gulf of Tonkin, it is an spectacular collection of 2,000 islands covering an area in excess of 1,500km. This forms a spectacular seascape of limestone pillars and cliff faces.

Our crew will welcome you on board with drinks and a fresh seafood lunch. You will check into your cabins and start cruising around the bay to see the amazing rock formations (karsts). You will cruise towards Bai Tu Long Bay, passing the towns of Hon Gai and Cam Pha, Oan Lagoon, Mat Quy (Monster Head) and Am Tich (Teapot) Islets and Vung Vieng fishing village.

We will explore the mystery of Sung Sot Cave which is one of the most beautiful caves in Ha Long Bay. Later on, you will have plenty of time for swimming and kayaking to the Tunnel Cave. During the evening, relax to the casual and comfortable atmosphere held on the luxury boat where you will have an elegant dining experience. If we are in the right season, we can see fresh squid being caught the traditional way.

Get your cameras ready for a spectacular sunset, lounge under the clear, star filled sky and retire to your cabin at your leisure where you will spend the night on the luxury boat near a remote island.

Day 4: Ha Long – Ha Noi

After breakfast, we will continue to cruise through the karsts some of which display spectacular shapes.

Passing near to Hoa Cuong and Ga Choi Islands, we will arrive at the Luon Cave. Back to board the boat for an early lunch after which we say goodbye to the boat and our crew and head back to Hanoi by road stopping off at the Bat Trang ceramics and pottery village where they make and market all kinds of ceramics, embroidery and marble statues. Dinner will be served at “Rung” Restaurant. You will stay the rest of the night in Ha Noi. Day 5: Ha Noi – Hoa Lu – Vinh Day 5 takes us 80 km South of Hanoi to the spectacular area of Ninh Binh Province, also known as “Ha Long Bay on land”. We start the tour with a relaxing sampan ride through the gentle and elegant landscape of plains and mountains leading to the mysterious Tam Coc Grottoes. When we get back to dry land, we move onto the Thai Vy temple which was built in the 13th century. Hoa Lu was formally the capital of the Dinh and early Le dynasties between the 10th and 11th centuries. After lunch, travel by road to Vinh City (the birth place of Ho Chi Minh) where you will spend the night and be free to relax at your own leisure.

Day 6: Vinh – Phong Nha – Hue Relax for a drive this morning to the World Natural Heritage Site of Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, located in the Quang Binh Province of Central Vietnam. Explore and discover the breathtaking beauty of the caves. The park not only has beautiful limestone formations, grotto caves and forest, but it also contains the largest primeval forest in Vietnam and the biggest limestone mountain range on the planet. From Phong Nha Wharf, we will take a boat trip on the Son River to discover the Phong Nha Grotto. And finally we will head further south to Hue City where you will spend the night.

Day 7: Hue Hue City was once the political, economic and cultural capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty (1802 – 1945). We spend the entire day exploring ancient Hue and finding its beauties and marvels. We start by taking a boat trip down the romantic Perfume River to the Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the most beautiful and oldest pagodas in Hue. After that, we move on to see the Minh Mang Tomb. Minh Mang was emperor of Vietnam from 1820 to 1841.

In the afternoon, we head to the outskirts of Hue to explore the Tu Duc Tomb before heading for the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site of the Imperial Citadel. You will see the Imperial City and Forbidden City as well as enjoying the palaces, ornate halls, libraries, residences, colleges, Flag Tower and Noon Gate. Dinner will be served at the local restaurant. After that you are free to venture out on your own or take it easy and relax in your hotel room.

Day 8: Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An

From ancient Hue, we travel to the more modern and rapidly growing town of Da Nang then into the exotic Hoi An. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to stop en route to take pictures at the summit of Lang Co Beach, Hai Van Pass. The Cham Museum is located in Da Nang City and has the most extensive collection of Cham art sculptures in the world. Sculptures date from the 7 th to the 15th century. Afterwards you will go through the beautiful and famous Marble Mountains arriving in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site of Hoi An. This ancient town offers tourists a chance to go shopping and relax at some of the local restaurants as well as offering a look into history and a way of life from days gone by in the well preserved and cared for buildings. We will take walking tour of the Chinese Assembly Halls, the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge and the old family houses. You will spend the night in Hoi An. Day 9: Hoi An – Nha Trang A relaxing morning on the beach, a visit to the shops or, alternatively, hire a bicycle and explore the surroundings of Hoi An, the choice is yours.

After check-out time, you will depart from Hoi An, travel back to Da Nang to catch the train to Nha Trang. The train follows the coastal route, providing spectacular views of beaches, cliffs and rice paddies.

On your arrival, you will be picked up and taken to your hotel. You will spend the rest of the night in Nha Trang.

Day 10: Nha Trang Nha Trang offers fabulous beaches, clear water and colorful marine life as the the country’s premier traditional seaside resort. It is situated in Nha Trang Bay, surrounded on all three sides by mountains making it widely considered among the world's most beautiful bays. Enjoy a morning boat trip in Nha Trang Bay to visit some island for swimming. You will have some leisure time at Tam Island then go to fishing village for lunch. After lunch, take a walk through the village to Tri Nguyen Aquarium. Overnight in Nha Trang.

Day 11: Nha Trang – Da Lat After the beaches of Nha Trang, we head for the central highlands to the romantic City of Love, Da Lat. We stop en route to visit the Cham historical site of Po Klong Garai tower in Phan Rang. Continuing up the Ngoan Muc Pass, you will arrive in Da Lat which is located at an altitude of 1,500m and offers a cool climate all year round.

The city tour of the Da Lat City begins with a visit to the romantic Valley of Love where you will see the tranquil Da Thien Lake with bridges to cross as well as various sculptures of couples in love. The Valley of Love is a must see for everyone! Then move on to the Xuan Huong Lake, a great place to go for a pleasant stroll with friends, family or that special someone. Relax and gaze out over the gentle waters. Da Lat is a beautiful city for not only lovers but friends and family to enjoy as well.

Day 12: Da Lat – Ho Chi Minh City

Leave behind the tranquil Da Lat and head for the more largest, fast-paced, modern city of Ho Chi Minh formally known as “Saigon”. En route, we travel through coffee and tea plantations.

On your arrival, you have a city tour to see the Reunification Palace, a tribute to the war when the gates came crashing down in Saigon to the North Vietnamese. In the same areas is the Notre Dame Cathedral, with the twin bell towers that form the most famous landmark in Ho Chi Minh as that can be seen for miles. Across the square is the Saigon Post Office which was designed and constructed by the famous architect Gustave Eiffel who also built the Eiffel Tower and the Statue of Liberty. It is the largest functioning post office in Vietnam and a must to see! After that, we go to see China Town, Binh Tay Market and the Thien Hau Temple. You will spend the rest of the night in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 13: HCM City – Cu Chi – Tay Ninh – HCM City Stunning landscapes, beautiful scenery culture and history are all on the menu after breakfast. We will visit some of the marvels of the Vietnam War as we take you just outside of Ho Chi Minh to visit the extraordinary Cu Chi Tunnels. The tunnels were built by the Viet Cong guerillas and formed a labyrinth virtually underneath the U.S bases and were used for surprise raids and to avoid air strikes. The tunnels themselves extend over 200 kilometers. We then go to the Cao Dai Temple in Tay Ninh which combines Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Christianity and Islam religions giving it a unique appeal and interest.

Later in the afternoon, you will travel back to Ho Chi Minh City where you will have dinner at the floating restaurant on Saigon River and spend the rest of the night.

Day 14: HCM City – My Tho – HCM City After breakfast, we depart Ho Chi Minh City for a scenic drive through the Mekong Delta, home to the richest agricultural lands in Vietnam. Once at My Tho, you will take a boat trip to an island that houses orchard gardens. Afterwards take a horse-drawn cart to Quoi Son where you will see a bee farm and enjoy various teas and candies. Then gently float down the tree-lined canals of the Mekong Delta in a comfortable sampan. Continuing by boat, you will get to see a family-run enterprise that produces coconut candy, have lunch at the orchard garden and, by late afternoon, return by boat to My Tho and then by road back to Ho Chi Minh City where you will spend the night.

Day 15: HCM City – Departure On the day of your departure, you are free to shop, relax and do whatever you would like at your own leisure until you are transferred to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for the departure flight.

noRtheRn Vietnam

Routing:

Hanoi – Hoa Binh – Mai Chau – Son La – Lai Chau – Sapa – Bac Ha – Lao Cai – Ha Long Bay

(10D/9N) Breathtaking scenery, warm friendly greetings from many different local ethnic minority groups and a wide variety of activities dominate this trip. From Hanoi, you travel by road up the Western side of Vietnam to Mai Chau and Sapa with many fascinating stops en route. A night train from the Sapa area takes you back to Hanoi and then into a very different but equally spectacular area, Ha Long Bay. Cruise around the unique and mystical rock formations that spring out of the water in the Bay, enjoy the caves, beaches and local food! And back to Hanoi to see the remaining main sites of this exciting and vibrant city before sadly saying goodbye to this magical and engaging country.

Day 1: Ha Noi On your arrival at the Noi Bai International Airport, you will be welcomed by our guide and driver who will bring you to Hanoi City. Hanoi is over 1000 years old and is currently the capital of Vietnam as well the commercial, political, and cultural heart of the country.

A city tour of Hanoi starts with a visit to the One-Pillar Pagoda. We will then take a drive to visit the Temple of Literature. The temple was built in October 1073 to worship Confucius and is considered to be the first university in Vietnam. We will then drive to Hoan Kiem Lake where you will see Ngoc Son Temple which worships Van Xuong saint and Tran Hung Dao, a former general commander. Hanoi is one of the few places found in this part of the world that has such elegance. Walk down the tree lined boulevards where we see many French influences such as Hanoi Opera House, the State Bank, the former Governor's palace, and the Hanoi Cathedral (Saint Joseph’s built in the late 19th century).

Later in the afternoon, you will get a chance to enjoy a 1-hour cyclo ride around the 36 streets in the Old Quarter of Hanoi followed by a welcome dinner at one of the many local restaurants. After that, you are free to explore on your own or take it easy and relax in your hotel room. You will spend the night in Hanoi.

Day 2: Ha Noi – Hoa Binh – Mai Chau Leaving the hustle and bustle of Hanoi, we get into the calm and beautiful landscape of rural Vietnam. En route to Mai Chau, we stop over at the Muong tribe village of Hoa Binh. In Mai Chau Village, you will experience the Thai Ethnic minority people in their natural surroundings as well bask in the beauty of the unbelievable view of Mai Chau nestled in the scenic valley. After lunch, we will take a leisurely walk around the Lac and Poom Coong Village. You will see farmers working in fields, locals weaving scarves and meet locals in the peaceful villages. In the evening, we will have the opportunity to enjoy the

traditional dance performances as well folk songs of the Thai people. You will have dinner and spend the night in a stilt-house of Thai Community in Mai Chau.

Day 3: Mai Chau – Son La Today we will take you to Son La via Moc Chau Plateau where there are tea hills, waterfalls and beautiful terrace rice fields. We will have the chance to meet the black Thai, White Thai, Hmong and Muong Tribes. We will take a short tour through Son La Town to visit the Son La Museum, and prison as well enjoying a dip in the local hot springs. We will spend the night in Son La. Day 4: Son La – Lai Chau After breakfast, we will take you to Lai Chau. Here you will enjoy the picturesque scenery of Northern Vietnam which is on the way to visit Tuan Giao market. You will check into the hotel in Lai Chai where you will spend the night.

Day 5: Lai Chau – Sapa Day 5 takes us to Sapa, a town that snuggles high in the mountains and was established by the French as a retreat for westerners to use during the hot and humid summers of Hanoi. En route, we will stop to visit the Tam Duong and Binh Lu markets where you will meet many different ethnic minority communities.

The ethnic minority people in these areas are different than the ones in Sapa. The ancestors of these people were believed to have originated from Laos. The groups in this area are called Black Zao, Zao with coins, Red H’mong, and especially Lu & Lao. All Ethnic minority groups have their own way of life and style of dress. While in the areas, we will go trekking through the rice terraces and villages of the red H’mong and Red Dzao.

And then on to Sapa where we will check into the hotel. Enjoy the afternoon exploring the adorable town of Sapa. There are markets that offer great shopping for fresh produce and handicrafts available from many of the local hill tribes that are selling their wares. You will spend the rest of the night in Sapa.

Day 6: Sapa You will have the entire day to explore Sapa with a first excursion to Ham Rong (Dragon Raw) to see the panoramic view of the town and the rice paddy fields that are carved out of the side of the mountain.

Moving on, we get to see one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Sapa, the Silver Waterfall.

In the afternoon, we will drive to the Lao Chai then visit the Black H’mong Villages. The H’mong people are Chinese descendants who immigrated to Vietnam approximately 300 years ago. You will get to learn about the many different traditions and beliefs of the H’mong people. We then travel 12 km’s before starting our walk to Ta Van to visit the Dzay people. Experience the picturesque panoramas along the way and meet other people from the different ethnic minority groups of the area. You will return for dinner in Sapa. Overnight in Sapa.

Day 7: Sapa – Bac Ha – Lao Cai – Night train to Ha Noi Today we will take you to Bac Ha. Bac Ha is the largest market in the region and is where you will see the most diverse groups of ethnic minority peoples. This is definitely the most colorful market in Vietnam. At the market, you will get the enjoy the Bac Ha people’s simple but unique kinds of food along with special wines made from rice, cassavas, corn. You can also taste different sorts of fruits such as plumps, apples, and peaches. Your guide will offer interpretation for you to engage with local people. Leave the market for the H’mong King’s house (King Hoang A Tuong) which was built by French colonists and the Chinese in 1920. Afterwards we will return to Lao Cai train station to catch the night train back to Ha Noi. You will spend overnight on the train.

Day 8: Ha Noi – Ha Long After breakfast, we drive to one of the most beautiful places in Southeast Asia, Ha Long Bay. The Bay is a UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The day starts with a leisure boat ride through the breathtaking Ha Long Bay where you will see mountain peaks reaching majestically out of the water. Lunch will be served onboard while cruising to Bai Tu Long Bay, Teapot Islet, Blockhouse Islet, and Goat Head Islet. Fresh local seafood will be served in the characteristically delicious style of the Vietnamese.

We will explore the mystery of Sung Sot Cave, one of the most beautiful caves in Ha Long Bay before getting the opportunity to relax at a beautiful beach where you can also enjoy swimming & kayaking and explore the bay. Later we will head back to the boat to enjoy a relaxing sunset while cruising to the Hang Trong area to anchor at Ho Dong Tien, near Trong cave. During the evening, relax to the casual and comfortable atmosphere on the luxury boat where you will have an elegant dining experience. If we are in the right season, we can see fresh squid being caught the traditional way.

You can then relax under the clear, starry sky, enjoying the peace and quiet of the Bay before retiring to your cabin at your leisure.

Day 9: Ha Long – Ha Noi After breakfast, we will continue to cruise through the karsts which some of them display fantastic shapes, many of which have ancient stories connected to them. We also pass Hoa Cuong and Ga Choi Islands on the way to visit Luon Cave. Back to the boat for an early lunch after which we say goodbye to the boat and to the crew and head back by road to Hanoi stopping en route at Bat Trang ceramics and pottery village where they make and sell all kinds of ceramics, embroidery and marble statues. Dinner will be served at “Rung” Restaurant. You will stay the rest of the night in Ha Noi. Day 10: Ha Noi – Departure

In the morning, we will get a chance to explore the multi-color features of 54 ethnic groups in Vietnam Ethnology Museum. Then onto the Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hanoi. Located beside the dazzling West Lake in Hanoi, Tran Quoc Pagoda is a cultural symbol of Vietnamese Buddhism. After lunch, you are free to shop, relax and do whatever you would like at your own leisure until you are transferred to Noi Bai International Airport for the departure flight. This is the end of the service.

da lat – nha tRang Routing:

Ho Chi Minh – DaLat – Nha Trang (6D/5N)

From the hustle and bustle of the dynamic commercial city of Ho Chi Minh City, you go into the Central Highlands to the peace and tranquility of Da Lat (known as the City of Love) and then down the premier seaside town of Vietnam, Nha Trang. Nha Trang Bay is acknowledged as one of the most beautiful bays in the world boasting beautiful beaches, clear turquoise waters and colorful sea life. For a 6 day trip of relaxation with some city excitement, this trip is just perfect!

Day 1: Arrival Ho Chi Minh City On your arrival at the Tan Son Nhat International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide and driver.

Being the heart and soul of South Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh is a bustling, dynamic and industrious city. It is not only the largest city but also the economic capital and trendsetter of Vietnam.

After lunch, is the city tour where you see some of the most magnificent sites and architecture found in Vietnam. We start at the imposing Dong Khoi Street (formerly Rue Catinat) before going to the Notre Dame Cathedral. This is the most famous landmark in Vietnam as the twin bell towers can be seen from a long distance. In the same square is the famous Saigon Post Office, the largest functioning post office in Vietnam. What makes this Post Office so extraordinary is that it was designed and built by Gustave Eiffel who also designed and built the Eiffel Tower and Statue of Liberty. This is a building not to be missed.

We will take you to do some shopping at the Cho Lon Market – China town. Dinner will be served at one of the local restaurants. The rest of the night is yours to venture out on your own or take it easy and relax in your hotel room.

Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City – Da Lat From Ho Chi Minh City, we drive to the City of Love or Da Lat City, located at an altitude of 1,500m in the Central Highlands. Da Lat was established by the French as a summer retreat to escape the hot and humid summer months of the low lands. We stop en route to view the coffee and tea plantation in Bao Loc. You arrive Da Lat in the afternoon where you will have the chance to visit the local market. You will get to view the beautiful landscapes and sites such as the Old Railway Station which was built during the Fench colonial times and the Long Bien Cathedral.

Afterwards we will visit the beautiful Valley of Love, Tuyen Lam Lake, and Truc Lam Zen Monastery.

You will also have the great opportunity to go sightseeing around Xuan Huong Lake which is the most beautiful lake in Da Lat. Relax and enjoy the peace and harmony of the gentle waters. Dinner will be served at a local restaurant. You will spend overnight in Da Lat. Day 3: Da Lat – Nha Trang After breakfast, we head West for the beautiful coastal area of Nha Trang stopping en route to visit the extraordinary and beautiful Po Klong Garai tower, a Cham historical site in Phan Rang. We will arrive Nha Trang early afternoon. Nha Trang is Vietnam’s premier seaside holiday spot and offers fabulous beaches, clear water and colorful marine life. You get to visit the Yersin Museum followed by the Oceanographic Institute to see thousands of different kinds of fish specimen. You will have dinner and spend the night in Nha Trang.

Day 4: Nha Trang Nha Trang Bay is surrounded on all three sides by mountains and is ranked by Forbes and Conde Nast as one of the world's most beautiful bays. Nha Trang is popular for its seaside resorts, palm lined white sand beaches and clear turquoise water. Enjoy a morning boat trip on Nha Trang Bay to visit the islands for swimming. You will have a leisure time at Tam Island then go to fishing village for lunch. After lunch, take a walk through this village to Tri Nguyen Aquarium. You will spend the night in Nha Trang.

Day 5: Nha Trang – Ho Chi Minh City Leave behind the tranquil and beautiful Nha Trang for the more fast-paced modernized city of Ho Chi Minh, formally known “Saigon”. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to stop en route to take

pictures at the beautiful coastal Dai Lanh and Van Phong beaches. After arriving by car to Ho Chi Minh City, you will check into your hotel. After that you are free to explore on your own or take it easy and relax in your hotel room. Dinner will be served at a local restaurant. You will spend the night in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 6: Ho Chi Minh City – Departure After breakfast, you are free to go shopping or sightseeing while you wait for your ride to the airport for your departure flight. This is the end of our service.

disCoVeR Vietnam (CentRal to south) Hue – Hoi An – My Son – Kon Tum – Pleiku – Buon Ma Thuot – Buon Don – Jun – Da Lat – Ho Chi Minh – Cu Chi – Mekong Delta (13D/12N)

Routing:

This tour focuses on the central area of Vietnam going to the old capital city of Hue, the ancient town of Hoi An and local historical sites before heading into the majestic central highland area where you will get to meet people from some of the 54 Ethnic minority groups who live in Vietnam. See the beautiful waterfalls of the area and get to ride on an elephant before heading for the romantic French hill town of Da Lat (City of Love). From Da Lat the tour takes you to the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh and into the more tranquil area of the Mekong Delta before your trip sadly comes to an end and you head for home.

Day 1: Arrival Hue On your arrival at Phu Bai Airport in Hue City, you will be welcomed by our guide and driver who will take you to Hue City. After checking into the hotel, you have the rest of the day at your leisure.

Day 2: Hue Hue City was once the political, economic and cultural capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty (1802 – 1945). We spend the entire day exploring ancient Hue enjoying its beauties and marvels. We begin the day with a boat trip down the romantic Perfume River to the Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the most beautiful and oldest pagodas in Hue. We then go to the Minh Mang Tomb. Minh Mang was emperor of Vietnam from 1820 to 1841.

In the afternoon, we head to the outskirts of Hue by road to explore the Tu Duc Tomb before heading for the Imperial Citadel. The Citadel has been a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site 1993 and includes within its walls, the Imperial City and Forbidden City. Enjoy the various palaces, ornate halls, libraries, residences and colleges. Dinner will be served at a local restaurant. After that you are free to explore on your own or relax in your hotel room.

Day 3: Hue – Hoi An Out of ancient Hue, we go to the more modern setting of Da Nang then into the exotic Hoi An. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to stop en route to take pictures at the summit of Hai Van Pass overlooking Lang Co Beach. And then on to the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site of Hoi An. In the afternoon, we take a casual walking tour of the Chinese Assembly Halls, the Japanese Covered Bridge and the old family Houses of Hoi An. During the evening, you are free to explore the beautifully illuminated ancient town of Hoi An. Hoi An caters well to tourists offering a quiet and peaceful environment for all to enjoy with many small eateries to enjoy, and shops to explore.

Day 4: Hoi An – My Son – Kon Tum You will have breakfast at your hotel and then we will take you to visit My Son, formerly the center of the Cham Kingdom. My Son was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. After My Son, we go to Kon Tum along the famous Ho Chi Minh trails. This takes us through magnificent stretches of mountains. We will stop at Co Tu village to discover the matriarchal traditions of K’Tu ethnic group. We will then hike to Konchori and Konkotu to visit these enchanting ethnic minority village with their typical stilt houses. Kon Tum is a region inhabited primarily by the Montagnards which includes many ethnic minorities, mainly of Banhar, but also including Rongao, Jarrai, Xedang, etc (there are a total of 54 Ethnic Minority groups living in Vietnam). You will check in upon arrival. Dinner will be served at a local restaurant. You will spend the night in Kon Tum. Day 5: Kon Tum – Pleiku – Buon Ma Thuot After breakfast, we will visit the wooden church that was built in 1913 by a French priest. This church is the pride of the residents in Tay Nguyen. You will have lunch and then we will take you to Buon Ma Thuot. On the way, guests can stop to see the rubber plantations, and pepper gardens. Buon Ma Thuot is a mountainous city in the west highlands and is the home of the elephants in Vietnam. You will have dinner and spend the night in Buon Ma Thuot.

Day 6: Buon Ma Thuot – Buon Don In the morning, we will go to Don village which is very famous for its elephants. It is also the home of many ethnic minority groups like Ede, M’nong, G’rai, Lao, Thai, etc. We will also visit the tomb of the

King of elephant catchers before taking a walk over the suspension bamboo bridge. You will also have the chance to enjoy many impressive waterfalls in the Central Highlands including Dray Sap. In Ede language, “Dray Sap” means “smoke waterfall.”

Dray Nu waterfall is another lovely waterfall created by the Krong Kno River. In the evening, there is an option of enjoying the Cong–Chieng Festival before dinner. You will spend the night in a bungalow in Buon Don. Day 7: Buon Don – Jun – Da Lat After breakfast, we will take you to Lak Lake. Here you can visit Jun village and enjoy a 1 hour ride on a dug-out canoe where you can see the local people fishing. You will also get the chance to ride an elephant for an hour. After that we will continue to Da Lat which is considered the jewel of the Central Highlands.

In Da Lat, you can go sightseeing along the hilly roads of Da Lat and to the tranquil Xuan Huong Lake which is in the center of the city. We will take you by car to visit the special Dalat Market. You will spend the night in Dalat.

Day 8: Da Lat The City of Love or Da Lat City is located 1,500m in altitude in the Central Highlands and has a cool climate all year round. Experience the full city tour of the beautiful Da Lat City that begins with visiting the summer palace of King Bao Dai, the last emperor of Vietnam. You will also get the chance to visit the Old Railway Station which was build during the French colonial times before going to the Tuyen Lam Lake and Truc Lam Zen Monastery. The Tuyen Lam Lake is a great place to go for a pleasant stroll with friends, family or that special someone. Relax and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the gentle waters.

You will spend the rest of the night in Da Lat. Day 9: Da Lat – HCM City Leaving Da Lat, we now head towards Ho Chi Minh City passing through the tea and coffee plantation along the way. You will have lunch on the way to Ho Chi Minh City. After checking into your hotel, you are free to explore on your own or relax in your hotel room.

Day 10: HCM City – Cu Chi – HCM City After breakfast, you can experience the city tour where you see some of the most magnificent sites and architecture found in Vietnam. You will start off by visiting to the imposing Dong Khoi Street (formerly Rue Catinat) before going to the Notre Dame Cathedral. This is the most famous landmark in Vietnam as the twin bell towers can be seen from a long distance. In the same square is the famous Saigon Post Office, the largest functioning post office in Vietnam. What makes this Post Office so extraordinary is that it was designed and built by Gustave Eiffel who also designed and built the Eiffel Tower and Statue of

Liberty. This is a building not to be missed. We will take you to do some shopping at the Cho Lon Market – China town.

We then leave the city to visit and experience the Cu Chi Tunnels. The Cu Chi Tunnels which were used during the American war for independence and were built by the Viet Cong guerillas. They form a labyrinth virtually underneath the U.S bases and were used for surprise raids and to avoid air strikes. We will then return to Ho Chi Minh City where you will have dinner and spend the rest of the night.

Day 11: HCM City – Vinh Long – Can Tho Today takes us to through the scenic splendor of the Mekong River Delta, home to the richest agricultural lands in Vietnam. You will take a boat trip to an island that houses orchard gardens and go to the ancient and amazing Cai Be floating market. A cruise down the Mekong Delta allows us an insight into the experiences and daily lives of the local people. After Mekong, we continue through Vinh Long by boat and then take a car to Can Tho where you will spend the night.

Day 12: Can Tho – HCM City The day starts with a gentle boat ride down the Mekong River to the beautiful Cai Rang floating market.

The Cai Rang floating market is a magnificent site to see as hundreds of small merchant boats float around offering their commodities. After the Cai Rang Market, you will head back by road to Ho Chi Minh City where you will check in the hotel and enjoy your dinner at a local restaurant. After that, you have the option to explore Ho Chi Minh City on your own or retire for the night in your hotel room.

Day 13: HCM City – Departure On the day of your departure, you are free to shop, relax and do whatever you would like at your leisure until you are transferred to Tan Son Nhat International Airport. This is the end of our service.

Vietnam family adVentuRe (noRth/CentRal) Routing:

Ha Noi – Mai Chau – Ha Long Bay – Hoi An (12D/11N)

Vietnam is a beautiful family destination offering many exciting activities and places to explore. Adventure through the countryside or sprawl out on a warm sandy beach. Children of all ages are quick to adapt to the culture and indulge in the new experiences that Vietnam offers. The Family Adventure Tour was designed

with one thing in mind‌ variety. There is everything from history, culture, ecotourism, cycling, rock climbing, boating, , farming and cooking opportunities as well as time on the beaches and shopping.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL HANOI On your arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you will be welcomed by your guide and driver who will bring you into Hanoi City to check into the hotel. Spend your first day in Vietnam enjoying a relaxing walk around the beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake as well experience the unique atmosphere that surrounds the Old Quarter. The rest of the night is at your leisure.

DAY 2: HANOI EXPLORATION The morning starts with a cyclo ride around the 36 streets in the Old Quarter. Here you will get your first real feel for ancient Vietnam as the Old Quarter has a history that goes back over 2,000 years. The Old Quarter is one of the oldest areas in Vietnam and is still continuously developing. You will also ride down the tree lined boulevards and see old French Colonial architecture in the French Colonial District.

Later in the evening, relax at the unique Water Puppet Show, a traditional folk performance held at Hanoi Theater. You will spend the rest of the night in Hanoi.

DAY 3: HANOI – MAI CHAU Leaving the city, you can see some of the dramatic scenery that Vietnam has to offer. We travel by car to Mai Chau Village where you will get spend the next couple days in this breathtaking valley. Enjoy the swimming and spa facilities at your lodge or take a walk or a bicycle through some of the local ethnic minority communities that are scattered around the valley.

DAY 4: MAI CHAU ROCK CLIMBING After breakfast, you can continue to enjoy the many activities that Mai Chau has to offer. If you decide to explore the valley, you will see the local people going about their daily tasks in the fields. You may get invited to have a go at planting or harvesting the crops (depending on the time of year). Or just enjoy the magnificent scenery that the Mai Chau Village has to offer as you travel down winding trails and through forests.

You also have the new option of rock climbing that has just been introduced to the area. The rock climbing experience is a must for any adventurous family. It is as safe as it is fun for everyone. No matter the age or physical ability or experience, there are many places to climb. These gorgeous rock formations will leave you and your family in awe and give you something to talk about to your friends for a lifetime!

If your family is more in the mood to kick back and relax, then stay in the hotel and sunbathe beside the pool.

DAY 5: MAI CHAU - HANOI The morning will be free at your leisure before you get ready to head back to Hanoi. On arrival in Hanoi, you and your family can explore the city on your own. Go site seeing or enjoy one of the many fabulous cafes or restaurants. The city packed with many hidden charms.

DAY 6: HANOI – HA LONG BAY In the morning, we leave Hanoi and travel East to the astonishing and mystical UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay. The day starts with a leisure boat ride through the breathtaking Ha Long Bay where you will see mountain peaks jarring out of the water surface and caves and tunnels begging to be explored.

During the evening, relax in the casual and comfortable atmosphere on the luxury boat. There will be an elegant dining experience after which you can watch the sunset and relax under the clear skies and stars before retiring to your cabin for the night.

DAY 7: HA LONG BAY Today you will get to choose your activities based on your families desires. For some relaxing on the boat is just what your family needs. For others venturing out to see all that Ha Long Bay has to offer is the right choice. You have the option to kayak around the many lagoons and grottoes of Ha Long Bay and see some of the spectacular sites that are hidden away in this extraordinary place. All meals will be served on the boat.

DAY 8: HA LONG BAY – KY SON VILLAGE After breakfast, you and your family will depart from Ha Long Bay for Ky Son Village. Your family can explore the Moon Garden Homestay and Ky Son Village at your own leisure. Enjoy all that this beautiful area has to offer such as a refreshing steam bath with fragrant herbs that emit a soothing aroma. Also indulge in the delicious dinner offered at the homestay. In the evening, you can witness the local worship as well enjoy a footbath in ginger and salt water.

DAY 9: KY SON VILLAGE – HANOI  HOI AN After breakfast, participate in the ancient custom of burning votive money and gold for the deceased ancestors of Vietnam. Next you and your family will embark on an adventure down the ritual paths through the Thang Thac Village with a guide to explore Ngo Quyen Tomb, Phung Hung Temple, Duong Lam Ancient Village, and Mia Pagoda. Before lunch, you have the option to join a cooking class or just

relax before your meal. The afternoon offers a number of choices. Take a cat nap in one of the hammocks in the garden or walk around and take advantage of the many photo opportunities such as Vietnamese in their traditional clothes and the beautiful scenery around the area. You can also go fishing and talk to locals about Ky Son to learn more about this great area.

Later in the afternoon, you will travel back to Hanoi where you will take a flight to Da Nang which is centrally located in Vietnam. From there you will head to the stunningly beautiful fishing town of Hoi An where you and your family will spend the rest of the night. This quiet town caters perfectly to tourists.

Enjoy walking down the gorgeous illuminated streets and enjoy dinner at any of the exquisite restaurants.

DAY 10: FULL DAY HOI AN SIGHTSEEING Enjoy the full day tour to get the whole experience that beautiful Hoi An has to offer. This ancient town is very welcoming to tourists and offers the chance to go shopping and relax at some of the local cafes abd restaurants. In the morning, we will take a walking tour to the Chinese Assembly Halls, the Japanese Covered Bridge and the old family houses. In the afternoon, we go by boat to visit the handicraft villages that specialize in ceramics and boat building. During the evening, you are free to explore the beautifully illuminated ancient town of Hoi An. You will spend the night in Hoi An. DAY 11: HOI AN On this day, enjoy Hoi An at your own pace. Take the family to relax on the Cua Dai Beach, take bicycles into the surrounding countryside or go shopping at many local shops situated all throughout the town. Hoi An also offers many activities such as cooking classes. See all that this beautiful picturesque town has to offer.

DAY 12: HOI AN – DA NANG DEPARTURE On the day of your departure, you are free to shop, relax and do whatever you would like at your leisure until you are transferred to the airport.

Vietnam family adVentuRe (south/CentRal)

Routing: Ho Chi Minh – Me Kong Delta – Can Tho – Cu Chi Tunnels – Hoi An – Hue – Quang Binh – Chay Lap

(12D/11N) Vietnam is a beautiful family destination offering many exciting activities and places to explore. Adventure through the countryside or sprawl out on a warm sandy beach. Children of all ages are quick to adapt to the culture and indulge in the new experiences that Vietnam offers. The Family Adventure Tour was designed with one thing in mind… variety. There is everything from history, culture, ecotourism, cycling, boating, fishing, farming and cooking opportunities as well as time on the beaches and shopping.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL HO CHI MINH CITY Upon your arrival at the Tan Son Nhat International Airport, you will be picked up and taken to your hotel (early check-in is subject to the hotel’s availability). Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam offering many different activities for your family to enjoy. You and your family have free time to explore after checking into the hotel. You can take a ride around the metropolis to witness some of the beautiful sites. Or take the family to one of many restaurants or cafes found all around the city. Or if you want to relax and take it easy for your first night in Vietnam, then stay at your hotel and enjoy the accommodations offered there. The choice is of course always yours and we want you to enjoy every moment in beautiful Vietnam.

DAY 2: HO CHI MINH – FULL DAY CITY TOUR The city tour will take you to see some of the most magnificent sites and architecture found in Vietnam.

You will start by visiting to the imposing Dong Khoi Street (formerly Rue Catinat) before going to the Notre Dame Cathedral. This is the most famous landmark in Vietnam as the twin bell towers can be seen from a long distance. In the same square is the famous Saigon Post Office, the largest functioning post office in Vietnam. What makes this Post Office so extraordinary is that it was designed and built by Gustave Eiffel who also designed and built the Eiffel Tower and Statue of Liberty. This is a building not to be missed. We will take you to do some shopping at the Cho Lon Market – China town.

DAY 3: HO CHI MINH CITY – MEKONG DELTA – CAN THO After breakfast, we leave Ho Chi Minh City for a beautiful scenic drive through the Mekong Delta, home to the richest agricultural lands in Vietnam. When you and your family arrive at My Tho, you will take a slow peaceful boat ride down the Mekong River to the island of the orchard gardens. You will all delight in the horse-drawn cart ride to Quoi Son where you will see a bee farm and be able to indulge in some

of the various local teas and candies produced on the island. After lunch, you will take a car ride back to Can Tho where you and your family will spend the night.

DAY 4: CAN THO – HO CHI MINH CITY Begin your day with a gentle boat ride down the Mekong River to the beautiful Cai Rang Floating Market which is one of the busiest floating markets in the Mekong Delta. Hundreds of small boats anchor to sell their goods. By late afternoon, you will arrive back in Ho Chi Minh City where you will check into the hotel and be free to do whatever you choose. Rest after the long excursion through the Mekong or venture out into Ho Chi Minh and see the sites. There is always something to do in Ho Chi Minh City.

DAY 5: HO CHI MINH CITY – CU CHI TUNNELS – HO CHI MINH CITY How often is it you get to relive history? Today, you travel by road outside of Ho Chi Minh to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels which once formed an underground city. These tunnels stretched for over 200 kilometers and were used during the Vietnam War for the Vietcong fighters to hide from airstrikes and mount surprise attacks. The tunnels themselves were virtually underneath the U.S Air bases. You will be able to experience a small portion of tunnel which is sturdy and safe. Once you finish at the tunnels, you and your family will be brought back to Ho Chi Minh where you can relax and enjoy the hotel or again venture out into the giant metropolis. You will be spending the night in Ho Chi Minh.

DAY 6: HO CHI MINH CITY  DANANG – HOI AN Today you will head to the airport and depart for Da Nang, the gateway to central Vietnam. Once you arrive in Da Nang, you will take a short car ride to the beautiful ancient town of Hoi An. Hoi An caters well to tourists offering a gentle and relaxing atmosphere that the entire family will enjoy and love. At night you can see the beautifully illuminated streets as you walk down through the picturesque town.

Enjoy many fine restaurants along the way that offer not only traditional Vietnamese foods but many different kinds of Western food. You can go shopping at the many local shops situated all throughout the town.

DAY 7: HOI AN ANCIENT TOWN & ECO FRIENDLY SIGHTSEEING TOURS Today you will get a taste of Vietnam’s agricultural life in the farming and fishing communities located near Hoi An. There are endless photo possibilities as you watch and engage with local Vietnamese people going about their daily lives. You will see the water buffalo working in a rice paddy field or watch live fish being caught. You and your family will also have the chance to try net fishing first hand with a local fisherman. Experience the friendly and gentle spirit of the Vietnamese as you venture through these communities and engage in their culture.

During a slow gentle boat ride down the coconut-palm waterways, you and your family will have the unique opportunity to paddle the bamboo basket boat… a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

DAY 8: HOI AN – HUE IMPERIAL CITY In the morning, you will be able to walk around Hoi An and take in the beauty of this magnificent town.

You are free to go shopping and eat any of the wonderful restaurants before leaving for Hue City. Once you are checked into the hotel, you are free to explore the old capital city. Hue city has many exciting sites to see and places to dine and is a small and very friendly town. For the less adventurous, you can always take a rest at the hotel.

DAY 9: CYCLING HUE CITADEL _OFF THE BEATEN PATH Today you will get to do a half-day cycling or cyclo trip around the Citadel which was once the home to the emperors of Vietnam. You will get to see some of the old military tanks that were stationed here in Hue City as you bike to the Citadel. You will also get a chance to walk through the fortress and see firsthand the beauty of the Citadel. Later you will get to relax and enjoy some coffee at a roadside café.

The focus now changes from history and culture to the more spiritual setting to give your family a taste of Buddhism at the Thien Mu Pagoda. The Thien Mu Pagoda is the oldest and one of the most beautiful pagodas found in Hue. After that, you will head back to the hotel where you and your family will be able to rest and relax after your half-day trip or be free to roam and explore as you wish.

In the evening, you and your family have the option of sailing the night away on the mystic dragon boats where you will enjoy and relax to traditional folk music on the beautiful Perfume River. This option is not included in the main tour and is subject to additional fees.

DAY 10: HUE – QUANG BINH - PHONG NHA NATIONAL PARK Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your hotel with your family before heading out on a 5 hour car ride to Quang Binh to see the Phong Nha National Park and Chay Lap Village. On the way, we will stop at the Hien Luong Bridge which was a demilitarized zone during the Vietnam War. Upon arrival at Chay Lap Village, you will first check into the homestay before getting to experience ecotourism at work. You will be able to stretch your legs while going for an easy bicycle ride through the National Park.

Experience different sounds of nature as you venture down the paths of this beautiful park. Everyone will be enthusiastic about some of the most beautiful scenery in Vietnam. Later enjoy a delicious dinner of your choice. You and your family will spend the night at the Chay Lap Homestay.

DAY 11: ECO FRIENDLY ACTIVITES IN CHAY LAP - HUE After breakfast at the Chay Lap Homestay, you will embark out on a great adventure down the Chay River. You can choose between taking a boat or kayaking down the Chay River depending on what suits

your family best. The destination is the Dark Cave and Nuoc Mooc Springs. Both of these sites are a fabulous place to bring your family, people of all ages will enjoy the splendors and excitement of the Dark Cave and Nuoc Mooc Springs. Later in the day, we will take you on a tour through the park with a guide who will teach your family about the codes of a conservation environment. For lunch, you will get to enjoy a picnic on one of the paths through the forest. After the picnic, you will take a short bus ride to the boat landing for a cruise on the Son River to visit the World Natural Heritage Site of Phong Nha Cave.

While your family explores and witnesses the beauty of the cave passages, they will get a sense of wonder and mystery as they venture down the lit cave tunnels. Finally, we will take a ride back to Hue via Ho Chi Minh High Way in the late afternoon. You will spend the rest of the night in Hue. DAY 12: HUE DEPARTURE On the day of your departure, you are free to shop, relax and do whatever you would like at your leisure until you are transferred to the airport.

noRtheRn delights Hanoi – Ha Giang – Dong Van – Meo Vac – Hoang Su Phi – Sapa – Lao Cai – Ta Van – Tam Duong – Lai Chau – Son La –Mai Chau – Hoa Binh – Kim Boi – Hoa Lu – Ha Long

Routing:

(15 DAYS/14 NIGHTS) Vietnam has 54 ethnic minority groups living in Vietnam each with their own cultural and linguistic characteristics. During this tour of the spectacularly beautiful northern provinces, you will visit many villages, mountains, valleys as well as cruising along rivers and the open sea among the unique rock formations that explode out of land and sea in Ha Long Bay and Ninh Binh province. Starting and finishing your tour in the exciting capital of this unforgettable country, Hanoi.

Day 1: Arrival Ha Noi On your arrival at the Noi Bai International Airport, you will be welcomed by our guide and driver who will bring you to Hanoi City. Hanoi is over 1000 years old and is currently the capital of Vietnam as well the commercial, political, and cultural heart of the country.

After settling into your hotel, you have the opportunity of an exciting 1-hour cyclo ride around the 36 streets in the Old Quarter of Hanoi before a welcome dinner at one of the many local restaurants. After that, you are free to explore on your own or relax in your hotel room. You will spend the night in Hanoi.

Day 2: Ha Noi – Ha Giang (320km) After breakfast, head north out of Hanoi to the Ha Giang Province, a remote and spectacular area of Vietnam. We will stop for lunch en route arriving at the village of Me where you will spend the night and enjoy dinner with your host family.

Day 3: Ha Giang – Dong Van (160km) After breakfast, we board the bus to drive further north to the district of Yen Minh via the photogenic Quan Ba pass. We will visit the villages of White Hmong and Dao people before moving on to Dong Van. The itinerary today offers opportunities to explore or relax as you choose. We have dinner in Dong Van and stay overnight. Remember to charge the batteries on your cameras as tomorrow offers even more irresistible opportunities for photography.

Day 4: Dong Van – Meo Vac – Ha Giang (170km) After breakfast, take a stroll down the Dong Van Streets, near to the market to see the old houses that the Hmong built centuries ago of clay bricks and tile roofs. Outside of Dong Van is the village of Pho Cao and is typical of the Hmong tribe. Discover the unique architecture of the old houses of the Hmong and Lolo people before leaving for the Vuong's Palace. This building used to belong to a King of the Hmong people during the French domination. The palace attracts keen interest from those interested in architecture due to its mixed style of European and Chinese architecture. You will spend the night in Ha Giang.

Day 5: Ha Giang – Hoang Su Phi Today we travel to Hoang Su Phi across the mountains and rice terraces of Thong Nguyen. Stop in the village Ta Phin to meet the Dzao people, then onto Hoa, La Chi Den and Pa Then villages. Dinner will be served at a local restaurant. You will spend the night at Eco-lodge Pan Hou in Hoang Su Phi. Day 6: Hoang Su Phi – Sapa After breakfast, we will depart to Sapa, stop en route for photographs and to visit villages of the H’mong Hoa, Black Dao, Tay, Giay, Ha Nhi and the Nung tribes. We make a stop at Coc Ly market for a cruise on the Chay river to village Trung Do of the Tay people. In the late afternoon, we arrive in the old French hill town of Sapa (built so that the French could escape the hot and humid summers of Hanoi), located at 1560m altitude. You will spend the rest of the night in Sapa.

Day 7: Sapa – Lao Cai – Ta Van The first excursion in Sapa takes us to Ham Rong (Dragon Raw) to get a panoramic view of the town and the tiered rice paddy fields that are carved out of the sides of the mountain. In the afternoon, we will drive to Lao Cai before heading downhill to visit the Black H’mong Villages.

The H’mong people are Chinese descendants who immigrated to Vietnam approximately 300 years ago.

You will get to learn about the many different traditions and believes of the H’mong people. After a drive of 12 km’s, we start our walk to Ta Van village to visit the Dzay people. You will love the breathtaking views along the way and will probably meet some friendly and helpful people from the different ethnic minority groups. You will return for dinner and spend the night in Sapa.

Day 8: Sapa – Tam Duong – Lai Chau (200 km, 4 hours of riding) Lai Chau is the destination for today. While en route, we will stop to visit the Tam Duong and Binh Lu markets. The ethnic minority people in these areas are different from those in Sapa. The ancestors of these people were believed to have originated from Laos which and are called the Black Zao, Zao with coins, Red H’mong, and especially Lu & Lao. We will go trekking through the rice terraces and villages of the red H’mong and Red Dzao after which we continue to Lai Chau. You will spend the night in Lai Chau.

Day 9: Lai Chau – Son La (330 km, 7 – 8 hours of riding) Today, you will meet people from the Black Thai, White Thai, and Red H’mong tribes. We then drive via the Pha Din Pass to the town of Son La stopping to visit Tuan Giao Market. Overnight at hotel in Son La. Day 10: Son La – Mai Chau – Hoa Binh – Kim Boi (250 km, 5 – 6 hours of riding) From Son La, we travel via the Moc Chau Plateau with its tea plantations, waterfalls and beautiful terraced rice fields to the charming village of Mai Chau. Mai Chau nestles in an enchanting valley and is mainly inhabited by the friendly Thai ethnic minority group. We will take a leisurely walk around the Lac and Poom Coong Village. During the walk, you will see farmers working in fields, locals weaving scarves and be able to visit the surrounding peaceful villages.

Later in the afternoon, we will take a ride to Hoa Binh through a mountainous region inhabited by the Muong tribe. We then head for the famous hot springs at Kim Boi. You will have dinner and spend the rest of the night in Kim Boi. Day 11: Kim Boi – Hoa Lu (160 km, 4 hours of riding) From Kim Boi, there is a short drive to the area that abounds with stunning landscapes, ancient culture and history of Vietnam of Ninh Binh Province. This area is known as “Ha Long Bay on land” and is

characterized by the jutting of huge rock structures from water and land reminiscent of Ha long Bay itself.

The province is located just 80 km South of Hanoi.

We start the tour by going for a relaxing sampan ride through the gentle but breathtaking landscape of plains and mountains which lead us to the beautiful and mysterious Thung Nang Valley where we take a gentle cycle ride (4km) to Bich Dong Cave. From Bich Dong Cave, we go to Hoa Lu, formally the capital of the Dinh and early Le dynasties between the 10 th and 11th centuries. You will spend the night in Hoa Lu. Day 12: Hoa Lu – Ha Long After breakfast, we drive to Ha Long Bay, one of the most beautiful places in Southeast Asia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The day starts with a leisure boat ride through the breathtaking Ha Long Bay where you will see unique rock peaks (karsts) reaching majestically out of the water. Lunch will be served onboard while cruising to Bai Tu Long Bay, Teapot Islet, Blockhouse Islet, and Goat Head Islet.

Fresh local seafood will be served in the characteristically delicious style of the Vietnamese.

We will explore the mystery of Sung Sot Cave, one of the most beautiful caves in Ha Long Bay before getting the opportunity to relax at a beautiful beach to enjoy swimming and kayaking. Later we will head back to the boat to enjoy a beautiful sunset while cruising to the Hang Trong area to anchor at Ho Dong Tien, near Trong cave. During the evening, relax to the casual and comfortable atmosphere on the luxury boat where you will have an elegant dining experience. If we are in the right season, we can see fresh squid being caught the traditional way.

You can then relax under the clear, starry sky and enjoy the peace and quiet of the Bay before retiring to your cabin for the night.

Day 13: Ha Long – Ha Noi After breakfast, we will continue to cruise through the karsts some of which display fantastic and mystical shapes before getting into a small boat to visit the Luon Cave. Back on board for an early lunch before saying goodbye to our boat and crew and heading back on the road to Hanoi stopping off at the Bat Trang ceramics and pottery village. The village sells all kinds of ceramics, embroidery and marble statues.

Dinner will be served at the “Rung” Restaurant. You will stay the rest of the night in Ha Noi.

Day 14: Ha Noi

Today there is a full city tour of Hanoi starting with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Complex which is Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum – the final resting place of the Vietnamese great father or ‘Uncle Ho’ as he is commonly known. You can also see President Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house where Uncle Ho lived and worked from 1958 to 1969, then visit Ho Chi Minh Museum where tourists can learn about his devotion for Vietnam. Then shift from a historical to spiritual perspective by visiting the One-Pillar Pagoda. A short drive then takes us to the Temple of Literature. Built in October 1073 to worship Confucius, it is considered to be the first university in Vietnam. The final stop for the morning is the Tran Quoc Pagoda.

This is located beside the dazzling West Lake in Hanoi is the oldest pagoda in Hanoi and acknowledged as a cultural symbol of Vietnamese Buddhism.

Later in the afternoon, we will get a chance to explore the multi-colored features of the 54 ethnic groups who live in Vietnam during a visit to the Ethnology Museum. During the evening, relax to the unique and intriguing Water Puppet Show, a traditional folk performance held on the Red River Delta. You will spend the rest of the night in Hanoi.

Day 15: Ha Noi – Departure On the day of your departure, you are free to shop, relax and do whatever you would like at your own leisure until you are transferred to Noi Bai International Airport for the departure flight.

“At the doorstep of Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park™

Quang Binh, Central Vietnam

Explore Rustic Chay Lap Biking-Kayaking-Trekking-Wildlife Watching

Chay Lap is a community-owned and operated ecotourism association in the Phuc Trach Commune. The commune is adjacent to World Natural Heritage Site of Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park. Locals living at the edge of the National Park provide ecotourism services to foreign and domestic tourists offering the opportunity for homestay in traditional wooden Vietnamese houses. They provide biking, kayaking and trekking services. Volunteering, studying trips are also available. By staying with Chay Lap, guests directly support conservation of an important World Natural Heritage Site while driving

employment opportunities and income for the families of Chay Lap Village and its surrounding areas.

Chay Lap is in one word, stunning!

However, we want to give our guests more than just coal-black evening skies, spectacular limestone cliffs, a raft of activities and an outpost of serenity on the jig-saw-green patchwork of the valley floor. We would like you to enjoy a real slice of Central Vietnam while engaging in what we hope is a rewarding educational experience for all.

disCoVeR RustiC Chay lap (3days/2nights) Day 1: Hue – DMZ – Chay Lap (L/D) In the morning, you will be transferred to Chay Lap with stops en route for DMZ such as: Hien Luong Bridge, Vinh Moc tunnel, and Cua Tung beach. Here you will get a chance to learn about the Vietnam War. You will have lunch at Cua Tung beach – known as the Queen of beaches in Vietnam. On arrival at Chay Lap, check-in the homestay. You are have the opportunity to learn how to prepare your dinner with the main course called “Steamed fish with beer, served along with local herbs”. You will stay overnight at Chay Lap homestay.

Day 2: Chay Lap – Bird watching & Biking into Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park (B/L/D)

Go cycling into Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park, and explore the wildlife in the Park. With luck, you can see animals such as Hatinh langur and Pygathrix nigripes as well as many birds. A picnic lunch is served en route.

We will leave the Park in the afternoon, and cruise in a wooden boat on Son River for the visit to Phong Nha Cave which is a World Natural Heritage Site. You will get to explore and discover the breathtaking beauty of the caves. If time permits, discover the life of Chay Lap by experiencing the local field tasks.

You will spend the night at the homestay.

(Biking distance for pro-cyclists is approximately 45-50km for professional cyclists. Amateurs will be suitable within 20km riding or less than that depending on your health).

Day 3: Phong Nha – Hue – Departure (B/L)

You will get to go kayaking on Chay River to the Dark Cave and Nuoc Mooc Springs. Next go for a short trek through the Park with a local guide as he teaches you about codes of a conservation environment. Enjoy swimming at Nuoc Mooc Springs before getting on bus to transfer to Hue on Ho Chi Minh Highway for your next departure. If time permits, stop for a visit to Phuoc Tich ancient village en route.

noRtheRn & CentRal Vietnam luxuRy touR Routing:

HANOI – HALONG – HUE – DANANG - HOI AN – DANANG (10 DAYS/9 NIGHTS)

This tour will take you from the exciting city of Hanoi to the wonder of Ha Long Bay to the ancient city of Hue, the growing town of Da Nang with its spectacular beaches and finally to the historical town of Hoi An… all done in luxury and style.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL HANOI (-/ -/ D) Upon your arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide and driver who will bring you into Hanoi City to check into your hotel. Hanoi City is over 1000 years old and is currently the capital of Vietnam as well the commercial, political, and cultural heart of the country. Once rested, enjoy the Zen spa at Zen Spa Westlake – web: http://zenspa.com.vn/ During the evening, enjoy the welcome dinner at one of the local restaurants after which you are free to venture out on your own or take it easy and relax in your hotel room. You will spend the night at Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi. http://www.sofitel.com/gb/hotel-1555-sofitel-legend-metropole-hanoi/index.shtml DAY 2: HANOI TOUR (B/ L/ D) After breakfast, you will experience a full city tour of Hanoi starting with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Complex. You can visit the Mausoleum – the final resting place of the Vietnamese great father or Uncle Ho, the stilt house where Uncle Ho lived and worked from 1958 to 1969 and the Museum where tourists

can learn about his life, his work and his total devotion to Vietnam. After the HCM Complex, we go to the spiritual setting of the One-Pillar Pagoda before taking a short drive to the Temple of Literature. The temple was built in October 1073 to worship Confucius and is considered to be the first university in Vietnam. Our last stop before lunch will be at Hoan Kiem Lake where you will see the Ngoc Son Temple, built to worship Saint Van Xuong and Tran Hung Dao, a former general commander.

After lunch, you will learn about the multi-color features of 54 ethnic groups in the Vietnam Ethnology Museum before finishing the tour with a 1-hour cyclo ride around the 36 streets in the old quarter of Hanoi.

Later in the evening, you will get to see the unique and intriguing Water Puppet Show, a traditional folk performance held at Hanoi Theater (first class tickets) before indulging in a delicious dinner at one of the local restaurants. You will spend the rest of the night at Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi.

DAY 3: HANOI – HALONG – CRUISE ON HALONG BAY – LAN HA BAY (WITH THE LUXURY AU CO CRUISE) (B/ L/ D) After breakfast, we drive to Ha Long Bay, one of the most beautiful places in Southeast Asia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The day starts with a leisure boat ride through the breathtaking Ha Long Bay where you will see mountainous rock formations reaching majestically out of the water. Lunch will be served onboard while cruising to Bai Tu Long Bay, Teapot Islet, Blockhouse Islet, and Goat Head Islet.

Fresh local seafood will be served in the characteristically delicious style of the Vietnamese.

We will explore the mystery of Sung Sot Cave, one of the most beautiful caves in Ha Long Bay before heading for the beautiful beach where you can enjoy swimming & kayaking in the bay. Later we will head back to the boat to enjoy a beautiful sunset while cruising to the Hang Trong area to anchor at Ho Dong Tien, near Trong cave. During the evening, relax to the casual and comfortable atmosphere on the luxury boat where you will have an elegant dining experience. If we are in the right season, we can see fresh squid being caught the traditional way.

You can then relax under the clear, starry sky, enjoying the peace and quiet of the Bay before retiring to your cabin for the night. You will spend the night on the Au Co Cruise boat.

DAY 4: CAT BA ISLAND – BAI TU LONG BAY (B/ L/ D) Cat Ba Island is famous for its national park which takes up half of the island. This is the largest island in the Gulf of Tonkin and is covered by a dense rainforest which is home to numerous indigenous species of flora and fauna. The secluded village of Viet Hai, is situated in the middle of this pristine environment and is easily accessible by a short walk or cycling trip.

Bai Tu Long Bay is located a little further east of Halong Bay and is the most remote area of the voyage.

You will get to see a wide variety of geological rock formations that make this area a spectacular site that will surely make this a popular sailing destination in the future. You will also get to go for a relaxing row boat tour through the floating village of Vung Vieng and cruising through the geological park will definitely give you delightful memories you will not forget for a long time. You will spend overnight on the Au Co Cruise boat.

DAY 5: HALONG BAY – HANOI  NIGHT FLIGHT TO HUE (B/ L/ D) After breakfast, we will continue to cruise through the karsts (rock formations) some of which display fantastic and mystical shapes before getting into a small boat to visit the Luon Cave. Back on board for an early lunch before saying goodbye to our boat and crew. After this fantastic visit to Ha Long, we begin our journey on the road back to Hanoi where you will be transferred to Noi Bai Airport to catch the night flight to Hue City in the central region of Vietnam. Once you arrive in Hue, you will be driven the short distance downtown to check into the hotel and then be free at your leisure. Dinner will be served at one of the local restaurants in Hue City. You will stay the night at La Residence Hotel & Spa.

DAY 6: HUE FULL DAY TOUR (B/ L/ D) During the Nguyen Dynasty (1802 – 1945), Hue was the political, economic and cultural capital of Vietnam and was the home of the emperors of the past. We will spend the entire day exploring ancient Hue discovering its beauties and marvels. We start by taking a boat trip down the romantic Perfume River to the Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the oldest and most beautiful pagodas in Hue. We will then take a ride to visit the Imperial Citadel, a World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO since 1993. Here we will see the Imperial City and Forbidden City, the home of previous Emperors, enjoy the various palaces, ornate halls, libraries, residences, colleges, Flag Tower and Noon Gate.

Lunch will be served at the luxury and typical garden restaurant Ancient Hue – www.ancienthue.com In the afternoon, we will start our journey by heading to the outskirts of Hue to explore the Tu Duc and Khai Dinh Tombs. After dinner, you are free to roam and explore on your own or rest and relax in your hotel as you wish. You will stay the rest of the night at La Residence Hotel & Spa. DAY 7: HUE – DANANG (B/ L/ D) After breakfast, we leave ancient Hue and travel to the rapidly growing city of Da Nang. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to stop en route to take pictures at the summit of Lang Co Beach, Hai Van

Pass and visit the Cham Museum located in Da Nang City. The museum offers the most extensive collection of Cham art sculptures throughout the world. The sculptures date from the 7 th to the 15th century. Afterwards, we will drive through the beautiful and famous Marble Mountains located in Da Nang.

We then arrive to check in at the Fusion Maia Resort where you are free to explore the city on your own or stay in your hotel for the evening.

DAY 8: DANANG – HOI AN – DANANG (B/ L/ D) Enjoy the half day tour to get the whole experience of ancient and intrigue that Hoi An has to offer. Hoi An is another UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. This ancient town has lots of life and offers tourists a chance to go shopping and relax at some of the local restaurants. In the morning, we will take a walking tour to the beautifully preserved Chinese Assembly Halls, the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge and old family houses. Take the whole afternoon to relax and be lazy on the beach or be adventurous and set out to explore the surroundings of Hoi An… the choice is yours. One choice is to go by boat to visit the handicraft villages that specialize in ceramics and boat building (not included in the tour, additional fee is required).

You will spend the night at Fusion Maia Resort.

DAY 9: DANANG – BEACH LEISURE (B/ -/ -) Take the entire day to relax on one of the many beaches or be adventurous and set off and explore the surroundings of Da Nang, the choice is yours. You will spend the rest of the night at Fusion Maia Resort.

DAY 10: DANANG – DEPARTURE (BY FLIGHT) (B/ -/ -) You will have breakfast at your hotel and will be free to spend your time as you wish before checking out at noon. You will drive to Da Nang airport to catch your flight to either Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City where you will connect to your departure flight home. This is the end of the service.

ASIAN ADVENTURE Vietnam and thailand (14 DAYS/13 NIGHTS) Routing:

Hanoi – Hoa Lu – Tam Coc – Ha Long – Hue – Hoi An – Da Nang – Ho Chi Minh – Mekong Delta – Bangkok – Ayuthaya

Visit the capitals old and new of both country as well as the spectacular and mysterious Ha Long Bay and Ninh Binh Province. This trip offers a well rounded and exciting adventure to share the very different but equally engaging charms of these two magnificent countries.

Day 1: Arrival Ha Noi On your arrival at the Noi Bai International Airport, you will be welcomed by our guide and driver who will bring you to Hanoi City. Hanoi is over 1000 years old and is currently the capital of Vietnam as well the commercial, political, and cultural heart of the country. s

A city tour of Hanoi starts with a visit to Hoan Kiem Lake where you will see the Ngoc Son Temple which was established to worship saint Van Xuong and Tran Hung Dao, a former general commander.

You will then set out for a 1-hour cyclo ride around the 36 streets in the Old Quarter of Hanoi followed by a welcome dinner at one of the many local restaurants. After that, you are free to explore on your own or take it easy and relax in your hotel room. You will spend the night in Hanoi.

Day 2: Ha Noi Today you will experience a city tour of Hanoi starting with a visit to the One-Pillar Pagoda. We will then take a short drive to the Temple of Literature. The temple was built in October 1073 to worship Confucius and is considered to be the first university in Vietnam. Hanoi is a place of contrast from the old town with its narrow streets to the elegance of the tree lined boulevards in the French quarter where we can see the Hanoi Opera House, the State Bank, former Governor's palace, and the Hanoi Cathedral (Saint Joseph’s built in the late 19th century).

Later in the evening, we will enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants before going to see the unique and intriguing Water Puppet Show, a traditional folk performance held on the Red River Delta. You will spend the rest of the night in Hanoi.

Day 3: Ha Noi – Hoa Lu – Tam Coc Today you will experience the ancient culture and history of Vietnam as well seeing the stunning landscape and beautiful scenery when we travel to the Ninh Binh Province. This area is known as “Ha Long Bay on land” and is located 80 km South of Hanoi. s

We will go for a relaxing sampan ride through the gentle and elegant landscape of plains and mountains leading to the beautiful and mysterious Tam Coc Grottoes followed by a gentle cycle ride (4km) to Bich Dong Cave. This journey takes you through breath taking scenery of rice fields and imposing mountains.

Once departing the Bich Dong Cave, we then head off to Hoa Lu, formally the capital of the Dinh and early Le dynasties between the 10th and 11th centuries. You will spend the night in Hoa Lu.

Day 4: Hoa Lu – Ha Long After breakfast, we drive to Ha Long Bay, one of the most beautiful places in Southeast Asia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The day starts with a leisure boat ride through the breathtaking Ha Long Bay where you will see mountainous rock formations (karsts) reaching majestically out of the water.

Lunch will be served onboard while cruising to Bai Tu Long Bay, Teapot Islet, Blockhouse Islet, and Goat Head Islet. Fresh local seafood will be served in the characteristically delicious style of the Vietnamese. s

We will explore the mystery of Sung Sot Cave, one of the most beautiful caves in Ha Long Bay before getting to the beautiful beach where you can enjoy swimming & kayaking in the bay. Later we will head back to the boat to enjoy a beautiful sunset while cruising to the Hang Trong area to anchor at Ho Dong Tien, near Trong cave. During the evening, relax to the casual and comfortable atmosphere on the luxury boat where you will have an elegant dining experience. If we are in the right season, we can see fresh squid being caught the traditional way.

You can then relax under the clear, starry sky, enjoying the peace and quiet of the Bay before retiring to your cabin.

Day 5: Ha Long – Ha Noi  Hue After breakfast, we will continue to cruise through the karsts some of which display fantastic shapes, many of which have ancient stories connected to them. We also pass Hoa Cuong and Ga Choi Islands on the way to visit Luon Cave. Back to the boat for an early lunch after which we say goodbye to the boat and to the crew and head back by road to Hanoi stopping en route at Bat Trang ceramics and pottery village where they make and sell all kinds of ceramics, embroidery and marble statues.

Once you arrive in Ha Noi, you will be transferred to Noi Bai Airport to catch the flight to Hue City in the central region of Vietnam. During the Nguyen Dynasty (1802 – 1945), Hue was the political, economic and cultural capital of Vietnam.

Day 6: Hue We spend the entire day exploring ancient Hue and finding its beauties and marvels. We start off by taking a boat trip down the romantic Perfume River to the Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the oldest and most beautiful pagodas in Hue. After that we move on to see the Minh Mang Tomb. Minh Mang was emperor of Vietnam from 1820 to 1841.

In the afternoon, we will start our journey by heading to the outskirts of Hue to explore the Tu Duc Tomb.

We will then take a ride to visit the beautiful Imperial Citadel, a World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO since 1993. Here we will see the Imperial City and Forbidden City, the home of previous

Emperors, enjoying the various palaces, ornate halls, libraries, residences, colleges, Flag Tower and Noon Gate. You will stay the rest of the night in Hue. Day 7: Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An We will depart from Hue and travel to the rapidly growing city of Da Nang. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to stop en route to take pictures from the summit of Lang Co Beach and Hai Van Pass.

And then onto Hoi An, another UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. This ancient town offers tourists a chance to go shopping and relax at some of the local restaurants as well as offering an insight into history and a way of life from days gone by in the well-preserved and cared for buildings. We will take walking tour of the Chinese Assembly Halls, the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge and the old family houses. You will spend the rest of the night in Hoi An. Day 8: Hoi An – Tra Que Vegetable Village Tra Que is a small village secluded in a green garden of vegetables which used to be a farming gardening village that provided all the fresh vegetables for the Hoi An people. When tourists began to visit this Hoi An, Tra Que became a place where visitors could learn and seek different things. The daily life of these old streets brings new experiences.

Experience the day living and working with the local people at Tra Que vegetable village. A short stroll will take you around the vegetable garden and then you can join in with the farmers in preparing the land and fertilizing it with seaweed from the local lake. The experience includes raking the ground, sowing, watering, and picking the vegetables as well many other gardening activities as well as enjoying the humor and friendliness so natural to the Vietnamese people.

After this, you will take a short rest and enjoy a footbath before preparing lunch with a local family. The lunch will consist of many local delicacies including ‘Tam huu’ spring roll, Banh Xeo or local pancake of the people in the middle region of Vietnam. You can partake in the cooking with the chef of these meals.

After your morning excursion and your lunch, you will take a Vietnamese traditional afternoon nap before learning how to harvest and wrap vegetables. In the afternoon, you will return to Hoi An where you will be free to roam and explore on your own or rest and relax in your hotel room as you wish.

Day 9: Hoi An – Da Nang  Ho Chi Minh City In the morning, we leave Central Vietnam and head for the more fast-paced modernized city of Ho Chi Minh City, formally known as “Saigon”. We drive back to Da Nang to catch the flight to Ho Chi Minh where you will be picked up and brought to check into your hotel.

The HCM tour starts with a visit to the imposing Dong Khoi Street (formerly Rue Catinat). Next we will go to the Notre Dame Cathedral, the most famous landmark in Vietnam as the twin bell towers can be

seen from a long distance. In the same square is the famous Saigon Post Office, the largest functioning post office in Vietnam. What makes this Post Office so extraordinary is that it was designed and built by Gustave Eiffel who also designed and built the Eiffel Tower and Statue of Liberty. It is a building not to be missed.

After some history and culture, we will take you to do some shopping at the Ben Thanh Market. The rest of the night is yours to venture out on your own or take it easy and relax in your hotel room.

Day 10: HCM City – Vinh Long – HCM City We leave Ho Chi Minh City for a beautiful scenic drive through the Mekong River Delta, home to the richest agricultural lands in Vietnam. Enjoy a boat trip to an island that houses orchard gardens and the beautiful Cai Be floating market, a famous place in the Mekong Delta. The Cai Be floating market is a magnificent site to see as hundreds of small merchant boats anchor alongside the banks of the river trading their commodities. We continue with our cruise through the maze of canals that crisscross around An Binh island.

Lunch is served at Mr. Muoi Huong old house. We can enjoy the delicious fresh tropical fruits of the Delta as we continue to cruise through islands and cross the Mekong River to Vinh Long (2km). On our way back to Ho Chi Minh City, we will visit the bonsai garden. Enjoy dinner with delicious dishes and elegant music. You will spend the night in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 11: HCM City  Bangkok After breakfast, you will be taken to catch the morning flight to Bangkok. Upon your arrival, you will be picked up and taken to the city center where you will check into the hotel and then be free to relax at your leisure. You will spend the night in Bangkok.

Day 12: Bangkok Sightseeing Today you will see the magnificent Royal Grand Palace, Emerald Buddha Temple and Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha). Then visit Museum of Siam (The museum opens from Tuesday to Sunday and closes on Monday). Ride on a tuk-tuk to the Flower Market. After lunch (on your own), we ride on a long-tail boat along Bangkok Noi Canals (East of Venice) then visit Wat Trimit (Golden Buddha). Return to the hotel in the evening where you will be free to do whatever you wish. You will spend the night in Bangkok.

Day 13: Bangkok – Ayuthaya – Bangkok

Day 13 takes you to Ayutthaya (the former Capital of Thailand). Upon your arrival, we will visit the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace which was once used as the State Banquet Hall. We will continue to Wat Chai Wattanaram also known as Khmer temple then Wat Phra Sri Sanpetch & Viharn Mongkol Borphit, the former Royal Temple. A short drive to Wat Chong Lom Pier takes us to the boat for our cruise down Chao Phraya River to Bangkok. We will have a buffet lunch which is served on board. The boat arrives at the River City Pier in Bangkok. Later in the day, we will take you to the Siam Paragon shopping mall. We will spend the night in Bangkok.

Day 14: Bangkok – Departure On the day of your departure, you are free to shop, relax and do whatever you would like at your leisure until you are transferred to Suvarnabhumi International Airport. This is the end of our service.

TWO PEARLS OF SOUTHEAST ASIA

Vietnam – laos (14 DAYS/13 NIGHTS) Ho Chi Minh – Mekong Delta – Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An – Hanoi -Ninh Binh – Ha Long Bay – Luang Prabang – Pak Ou – Vientiane

Routing:

This tour takes you to two very different SE Asian countries. Enjoy the excitement and magnificence of Vietnam and the extraordinary splendor of gentle Laos. You will visit cities, ancient towns, unique natural landscapes, spectacular historical and spiritual architecture and the natural friendliness of the peoples of both countries.

Day 1: Arrival Ho Chi Minh City On your arrival at the Tan Son Nhat International Airport, you will be picked up and transferred to check into your hotel (early check-in is subject to the hotel’s availability). Being the heart and soul of South Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh is a bustling, dynamic and industrious city. It is not only the largest city but also the economic capital and trendsetter of Vietnam. Yet within the teeming metropolis are the timeless traditions and beauty of an ancient culture. The city streets of Ho Chi Minh come to life as you experience a myriad of street markets, shops, pavements, cafes, stands-on-wheels and vendors all with their wares spread out on the sidewalks. Let the exhilarating vibe of Ho Chi Minh City fill you with joy and wonder.

You will start off by visiting the Reunification Palace, a tribute to the war when the gates came crashing down in Saigon to the North Vietnamese. In the same area is the Notre Dame Cathedral with the twin bell towers that form the most famous landmark in Ho Chi Minh as that can be seen for miles. You will spend the rest of the night in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 2: HCM City – Vinh Long – HCM City To start the morning off, we leave Ho Chi Minh City for a beautiful scenic drive through the Mekong River Delta, home to the richest agricultural lands in Vietnam. Enjoy a boat trip to an island that houses orchard gardens and the beautiful Cai Be floating market, a famous place in the Mekong Delta. The Cai Be floating market is a magnificent site to see as hundreds of small merchant boats anchor alongside the banks of the river trading their commodities. We continue with our cruise through the maze of canals that crisscross around An Binh island.

Lunch is served at Mr. Muoi Huong old house. We can enjoy the delicious fresh tropical fruits of the Delta as we continue to cruise through islands and cross the Mekong River to Vinh Long (2km). On our way back to Ho Chi Minh City, we will visit the bonsai garden. Enjoy dinner with delicious dishes and elegant music. You will spend the night in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 3: HCM City  Hue After breakfast, there is a half day tour around the city and a visit to the Thien Hau Temple. Thien Hau is a 16th century Chinese temple in Cho Lon, which is dedicated to Thien Hau or the goddess of the sea who is said to protect fishermen and sailors. A trip to the War Remnants Museum will introduce some culture but some history as you experience this tribute to the Vietnam War. Lunch will be served at Chateau 1 Restaurant.

In the early afternoon, you will be transferred to Tan Son Nhat Airport to catch the flight to Hue City in the Central region of Vietnam. Hue was the political, economic and cultural capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty (1802 – 1945) and was the home of past emperors.

Our tour of Hue starts at the beautiful Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site since 1993. The Citadel includes the Imperial City and Forbidden City. Enjoy the various palaces, ornate halls, libraries, residences, colleges, Flag Tower and Noon Gate. We then visit the traditional Dong Ba Market, a typical market that has existed in this way for centuries. Vendors sprawl their goods out for you where you can walk and select the items you want. Dinner will be served at Y Thao Garden Restaurant. You will stay the rest of the night in Hue. Day 4: Hue

We spend the entire day exploring ancient Hue and finding its beauties and marvels. We first start off by taking a boat trip down the romantic Perfume River to the Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the oldest and most beautiful pagodas in Hue. After that we move on to see the Minh Mang Tomb who was emperor of Vietnam from 1820 to 1841. Enjoy a vegetarian lunch and take the chance to chat with the nuns to learn more about Buddhism and gain insight into their daily lives and their calligraphy art.

In the afternoon, we will start our journey by heading to the outskirts of Hue to explore the Tu Duc Tomb.

On the way back to Hue, you will get to see a traditional village where they make conical hats and incense.

Enjoy dinner and relax to traditional folk music on the mystic dragon boats down the beautiful Perfume River. You will spend the night in Hue. Day 5: Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An Out of ancient Hue and into a more modern setting of Da Nang then onto the exotic Hoi An. You will depart from Hue and travel to the rapidly growing city of Da Nang. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to stop en route to take pictures at the summit of Lang Co Beach, Hai Van Pass and visit the Cham Museum located in Danang City. The museum offers the most extensive collection of Cham art sculptures throughout the world. The sculptures date from the 7th to the 15th century.

Finally, you will head to Hoi An, another UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Dinner will be served at Sakura Restaurant, a beautiful Japanese – Vietnamese restaurant on the banks of the Thu Bon River. You will spend the night in Hoi An. Day 6: Hoi An Today we enjoy a walking tour through the narrow and ancient streets of this charming town. Perhaps more than any other place in Vietnam, Hoi An retains the feel of the splendor of past centuries. Once known as Faifo, Hoi An was an influential port along the Silk Road. For over 500 years, merchants from China, Japan, France and Portugal settled in the prosperous town resulting in a distinctive blend of culture, cuisine, religions and architecture. In 1999, the town was declared an UNESCO World Heritage Site listed for having the most unique architecture in Southeast Asia. It has been restored and protected by both the UNESCO funding and proud locals ever since. Lunch will be served at the Cargo Restaurant.

Take the whole afternoon to relax and be lazy on the beach or be adventurous and set of and explore the surroundings of Hoi An by bicycle, visit the local market or take a trip down the river: the choice is yours.

Day 7: Hoi An – Da Nang  Ha Noi – Hoa Lu – Ha Noi After breakfast, you will depart from Hoi An back to Da Nang to catch the flight to Ha Noi. Upon your arrival, you will be picked up and transferred to Ninh Binh Province. This area is known as “Ha Long Bay on land” and is located 80 km South of Hanoi.

Today you will experience the ancient culture and history of Vietnam as well seeing the stunning landscapes and beautiful scenery. We will start the tour by going for a relaxing sampan ride through the gentle and elegant landscape of plains and mountains leading to the beautiful and mysterious Tam Coc Grottoes followed by a gentle cycle ride (4km) and boat ride to Bich Dong Cave and Pagoda. This journey takes you through breath taking scenery of rice fields and imposing mountains. We then move on to the Thai Vy Temple where we will have lunch. Being built in the 13 th century, the Thai Vy Temple offers magnificent insight and depth into the ancient Vietnamese culture.

Once departing the Thai Vy Temple, we then head off to Hoa Lu, formally the capital of the Dinh and early Le dynasties between the 10th and 11th centuries. We will then head back to Ha Noi where you will enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants and spend the rest of the night.

Day 8: Ha Noi – Ha Long After breakfast, we drive to Ha Long Bay, one of the most beautiful places in Southeast Asia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The day starts with a leisurely boat ride through the breathtaking Ha Long Bay where you will see mountainous rock formations (karsts) reaching majestically out of the water.

Lunch will be served onboard while cruising to Bai Tu Long Bay, Teapot Islet, Blockhouse Islet, and Goat Head Islet. Fresh local seafood will be served in the characteristically delicious style of the Vietnamese.

We will explore the mystery of Sung Sot Cave, one of the most beautiful caves in Ha Long Bay before getting the opportunity to relax at a beautiful beach where you can also go swimming & kayaking to explore the bay. Later we will head back to the boat to enjoy a relaxing sunset while cruising to the Hang Trong area to anchor at Ho Dong Tien, near Trong cave. During the evening, relax to the casual and comfortable atmosphere on the luxury boat where you will have an elegant dining experience. If we are in the right season, we can see fresh squid being caught the traditional way.

You can then relax under the clear, starry sky, enjoying the peace and quiet of the Bay before retiring to your cabin for the night.

Day 9: Ha Long – Ha Noi After breakfast, we will continue to cruise through the karsts some of which display fantastic and mystical shapes before getting into a small boat to visit the Luon Cave. Back on board for an early lunch before saying goodbye to our boat and crew and heading back on the road to Hanoi stopping off at the Bat Trang ceramics and pottery village. The village sells all kinds of ceramics, embroidery and marble statues. We will enjoy dinner at the “Rung” Restaurant before going to see the unique and intriguing Water Puppet Show, a traditional folk performance held on the Red River Delta. You will stay the rest of the night in Ha Noi.

Day 10: Ha Noi  Luang Prabang A city tour of Hanoi starts with a visit to the Hoan Kiem Lake where you will see Ngoc Son Temple which worships saint Van Xuong and Tran Hung Dao, a former general commander. We will then take a drive to visit the Temple of Literature. The temple was built in October 1073 to worship Confucius and is considered to be the first university in Vietnam. Hanoi is one of the few places found in this part of the world that has such elegance. Walk down the tree lined boulevards where we see many French influences such as Hanoi Opera House, the State Bank, the former Governor's palace, and the Hanoi Cathedral (Saint Joseph’s built in the late 19th century). You can then relax and enjoy a 1-hour cyclo ride around the 36 streets in the old quarter of Hanoi followed by a lunch at a local restaurants.

In the early afternoon, you will be picked up and transferred to the airport to catch the flight to Luang Prabang in Laos. Upon your arrival, you will be greeted by our driver and brought into town to check into the hotel. After that you are free to venture out on your own or relax in your hotel room. You will spend the night in Luang Prabang.

Day 11: Luang Prabang Today you will get the chance to see the National Museum which was the former king’s Palace. The Palace was built upon an older Palace foundation and finished in 1909 by French architects. Here you will get to see a blend of French and Lao art such as the paintings and murals of the royal family. In the reception area, you can see busts of all the past Lao kings. Next see the peaceful Wat Visoun, a 16th century temple that served as a small museum for religious artifacts. Following the Wat Visoun, you get to see the Wat Aham, built in the 19th century. This temple houses two guardian figures at the foot of the steps which represent two characters from te Ramayana – Hanuman, the Monkey god and a fierce Yaksa.

Next see the peaceful Wat Mai which is the largest and most richly decorated of the temples in Luang Prabang. Afterwards, enjoy a casual stroll around the Darat market to observe the locals buying and selling goods. Finally we will climb up 328 steps to the summit of Phousi Hill which dominates the skyline of Luang Prabang and provides the finest panoramic view in the city. For the remainder of the day, you are free to do whatever you wish and you will spend the night in Luang Prabang.

Day 12: Luang Prabang – Pak Ou – Luang Prabang After breakfast, you will get to see the 450 year old Wat Xieng Thong which has survived Chinese sieges as well the wear and tear over time. The Wat Xieng Thong is a UNESCO world heritage site. It is a great

place to visit to experience and gain insights into the Buddhist religion. Next you will take a 2 hour riverboat cruise up the Mekong River towards the Pak Ou, at the confluence of the Nam Ou, and Mekong Rivers. Here you will visit the sacred caves of Tham Ting and Tham Phum which is home to hundreds of Buddha Statues.

You will have lunch at a local restaurant near one of the caves before heading back to Luang Prabang. On the way, we will stop at the Ban Xang Hai village where the distillation of sticky rice wine can be seen.

Also visit the weaving village of the Ban Xang Khong where the traditional Sa paper is made. You will spend the night in Luang Prabang.

Day 13: Luang Prabang  Vientiane After breakfast, you will be brought to the airport to catch the flight to Vientiane. You will be greeted upon arrival and brought to the hotel for check-in and to drop off your luggage. (Early check-in is NOT included and is subject to hotels availability).

Then you will get to a enjoy city tour to visit the city’s major historic sites including, Wat Si Saket - the oldest standing temple in Vientiane and among the most atmospheric. It was built in 1818 by Chao Anou in the Bangkok style. Within the cloister walls are hundreds of niches housing Buddha images large and small, made of wood, stone, silver and bronze. Wat Haw Pha Kaew (opposite Wat Si Saket), King Setthathirat's former royal temple, which housed the magical Emerald Buddha (Pha Kaew) after it was taken from Lanna (Chiang Mai). The interior has been turned into a small jumbled museum housing Buddha images. Look out for the beautiful tall, lithe, long-armed Buddha in the hands-down "calling for rain" pose.

That Luang Stupa, the national symbol and most important religious monument in Laos, That Luang is a three-layered gilded stupa. The current version dates from 1566, although it has been ransacked and renovated numerous times since then. Patuxai (Victory Gate), is a local version of Parisian Arc de Triomphe. Aside from the monument itself, the palm tree lined park is a beautiful place to relax. Despite the lack of shade, the fountains make the park even more enjoyable. During the day, you have the option of climbing up the 7th layers (by stairs only) for a beautiful view of downtown Vientiane. Afterwards, enjoy a casual stroll around the Morning Central market to observe the locals buying and selling goods.

You will spend the night in Vientiane.

Day 14: Vientiane – Departure After breakfast, you are free to go shopping or sightseeing while you wait for your ride to the airport for your departure flight. This is the end of our service.

TREASURES OF TWO LANDS

thailand - laos (17 DAYS/16 NIGHTS) Bangkok – Ayutthaya – Chiang Mai – Mae Hong Son – Chiang Rai – Golden Triangle – Houei Say – Pakbeng – Pak Ou – Luang Prabang – Vientiane – Pakse – Wat Phu – 4000 Islands – Tadlo – Boloven Plateau Routing:

This thrilling tour offers a wide variety of experiences in these two counties that share many similarities but are totally unique. Enjoy the history, culture and thrill of the larger cities, the splendor that the rural settings offer. Cruise along what is recognized as the most beautiful part of the Mekong River from Thailand into Laos. Breathe in the beauty and wonder of the 4000 island area. This is a trip for those that love variety and adventure.

Day 1: Arrival Bangkok On your arrival at Suvarnabhumi International Airport, you will be welcomed and picked up by our local guide and driver. They will then bring you to the city center for hotel check-in. After checking into the hotel, the rest of the day is free to your leisure to discover Bangkok at night.

You will spend the night Bangkok.

Day 2: Bangkok Sightseeing Today we will take you on a full-day sightseeing tour by driving to visit the spectacular Royal Grand Palace, Emerald Buddha Temple and Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha). Then visit Museum of Siam (The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday and closes on Monday). You will get to ride on the tuk-tuk to the Flower Market. After lunch (on your own), we ride on a long-tail boat along the intriguing Bangkok Noi Canals (East of Venice) before visiting Wat Trimit (Golden Buddha). Return to the hotel in the evening where you are free to your leisure. You will spend the night in Bangkok.

Day 3: Bangkok – Ayuthaya – Bangkok Today we will drive to Ayutthaya (the former Capital of Thailand). Upon your arrival, we will visit Bang Pa-In Summer Palace which was once used as State Banquet Hall. We will continue to Wat Chai Wattanaram also known as Khmer temple, Wat Phra Sri Sanpetch & Viharn Mongkol Borphit, the

former Royal Temple. A short drive to Wat Chong Lom Pier takes us to the boat for a cruise down the Chao Phraya River to Bangkok. A buffet lunch will be served on board. The boat arrives at the River City Pier in Bangkok. Later in the day, we will go to MBK Hall or the Siam Parago shopping mall.

You will spend the night in Bangkok.

Day 4: Bangkok – Chiang Mai This morning, we take the flight north to Chiang Mai known as “the Rose of the North”. You will be picked up and brought to check into the hotel (early check-in is subject to hotel’s availability). In the afternoon, we will go sightseeing around Chiang Mai City. The Moat tour will take you around the old city which is surrounded by historical and cultural heritage. We will visit 3 important temples, Phra Singh (the most beautiful architecture in northern style Chiang Mai), Jedi Luang (Temple of the Big Stupa), and Chiang Man (the oldest temple in Chiang Mai). After that, visit Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre to understand Chiang Mai’s history, customs, art, culture, and way of life.

If you choose, you can enjoy the optional Khan Toke Dinner at night where you will be treated to traditional northern cuisine during a savory Khan Toke dinner. Dine in classic Thai style at this communal meal. You will sit on a raised platform in front of a toke, a low, circular table made of lacquered wood or rattan. During the dinner, you will be entertained by a cultural performance which includes the candle dance, sword dance, drum dance and more. You will spend the night in Chiang Mai. Day 5: Chiang Mai Sightseeing Today we will drive up to the North and visit Mae Sa Elephant Camp. This is an experience not to be missed. You will see the elephants taking their daily bath in the river before they are ‘put to work’ with a demonstration of their skills and abilities. As well as seeing the elephants playing football and painting, you will also see how they were used in the logging trade in the past. Although some of the activities are more frivolous than others, they are all designed to keep these intelligent animals occupied and happy and demonstrate the amazing relationship and communication between rider and elephant.

After the demonstration, you will get to experience an elephant ride for 30 minutes through the jungle and into the water. Then visit the Orchid Farm to see the variety species of the orchids in Chiang Mai. In the afternoon, we will continue to Doi Suthep Temple which is located on the top of a mountain and about 15 km from the heart of the city. The temple has been a holy place for more than seven hundred years and was built in the late 14 th century under King Geu Na. The temple is located over 3,500 feet (1,053 meters) above sea level and offers a fabulous view of the city and the Ping Valley beyond.

Nowadays, Doi Suthep Temple attracts many pilgrims and tourists, both local and international throughout the year.

During the evening, you will be able to go shopping on your own at the famous Night Bazaar that has all kinds of products displayed for sale along the sidewalk. You will spend the night in Chiang Mai. Day 6: Chiang Mai – Mae Hong Son After having an early breakfast, we will drive up hill to Mae Hong Son “The City of Three Mist”. Along the way, you will get to see the beautiful panoramic scenery. Stop and take a break at Pai District, one of the most beautiful places in Thailand before visiting a small village to see the way life of the villagers. In the afternoon, we will continue to drive to Mae Hong Son to visit Wat Chong Kham & Wat Chong Klang the twin Burmese temples, Wat Phrathat Doi Kong Moo which is seen as the the spirit centre of local people and Tai Yai. This last temple is located on the summit of the hill where you can have a 360 degree panoramic view of Mae Hong Son town.

You will spend the night at Mae Hong Son. Day 7: Mae Hong Son – Chiang Mai In the early morning, we will the hotel to go to the morning market and observe the traditional way of life of the local people. Here you will see the colorful costumes of the Shan and other tribal people who come here to buy foods and fresh vegetables. Next take a long-tail boat trip along Pai River from Ban Huay Due Pier to visit Karen Long Neck Village. The women who are part of the tribe of this village have a bronze ring on their necks.

We will finally drive back to Chiang Mai by road. You will spend the night in Chiang Mai. Day 8: Chiang Mai – Chiang Rai In the morning, we depart to Chiang Rai which is the most Northern province of Thailand. We will stop en route at Mae Kha Chan Hot Spring to relax. Then visit Wat Rong Khun or White Temple. This is the most unique Buddhism temple in the world and was created by Mr. Chalermchai Kositpipat, the famous Thai artist who has dedicated his entire life to Buddhist art. Next we will visit Phra Kaew Temple where the Emerald Buddha used to be and go sightseeing around Chiang Rai City. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel and be free at your leisure.

You will spend the night in Chiang Rai. Day 9: Chiang Rai – Golden Triangle – Chiang Rai Your day will start with a visit to Chiang Saen Ancient City where the first king who built Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai was born. Then continue to the Golden Triangle, three borders of Thai - Laos Myanmar meet and visit the Opium Museum. This is a private museum with artifacts and stories about the

opium trade in past days. Next we will continue to visit Mae Sai Border which is the border market and the gateway to Ta Chi Leik in the mystical country of Myanmar (Burma). Next we will head back to hotel to relax.

You will spend the night in Chiang Rai. Day 10: Chiang Khong Pier (Chiang Rai) – Houei Say – Pakbeng (By cruise) In the early morning, we will drive to the pier for immigration procedure and customs clearance then across the Khong River. Your luggage will be brought by local boat to the Laos border village of Bann Huay Xai. After crossing the border, you will be welcomed and picked up by our local guide and then take a traditional boat that leaves Houei Say pier (at about 08:30AM) for a cruise down the Mekong to Pakbeng.

While en route, one stop is made to observe rural life along the Mekong and visit the ethnic minority groups who live there. We have lunch on board. Arrive at Pakbeng before sunset and check-in hotel where dnner will be served on the terrace overlooking the Mekong River. Spend the night in Pakbeng.

Day 11: Pakbeng – Pak Ou – Luang Prabang (By cruise) This morning, you will have breakfast at the hotel. (Optional tour: walk to Pakbeng market where people from the surrounding minority villages exchange their goods).

At 08:30, we board the boat for the second leg of the cruise making a short stop to discover some H’mong villages before having lunch on board. On our way to Pak-Ou village at the mouth of the Nam Ou River, we make a brief stop to visit the Tam Ting “Cave of a thousand Buddha's” and the traditional processing of manufacturing local rice alcohol. The boat arrives at the pier in Luang Prabang before sunset. A short drive takes you to your hotel when you will be free at leisure to have dinner on your own at one of the many restaurants. Spend the night in Luang Prabang.

Day 12: Luang Prabang – City Tour & Kuang Si Water Fall After breakfast, you will get the chance to see the National Museum, the former King’s Palace. The Palace was built upon an older Palace foundation and finished in 1909 by French architects. Here you will get to see a blend of French and Lao art such as paintings and murals of the royal family. In the reception area, you can see busts of all the past Lao kings. Following the National Museum, we will then climb up to the top of Mount Phousi for an unmissable exploration of the sacred, gilded stupa as well as being treated to a panoramic view of the city and the Mekong River.

We then go to see Wat Aham, built in the 19th century. This temple houses two guardian figures at the foot of the steps which represent two characters from the Ramayana – Hanuman, the Monkey god and a fierce Yaksa. Finally see the Wat Xieng Thong, built in the 16th century. The Wat Xieng Thong surpasses any other temple in the Luang Prabang in elegance and grace of the Luang Prabang architecture. The beauty and wonder of this temple is a must see that will not only give you a sense awe but offers many photo opportunities.

In the afternoon, we will take an excursion by car to see the amazing waterfalls of Khouang Sy. The waterfalls are hidden away in the lush jungle that surrounds them and is a must for anyone who enjoys nature and scenery. On the way to the waterfalls, we will stop and visit some of the hill tribe villages such as the H’Mong village of Ban Thinkeo and the Khmu village of Ban Thapaene. On your return to Luang Prabang, you can explore the night market on your own. You will stay the night in Luang Prabang.

Day 13: Luang Prabang  Vientiane & City Tour The morning flight will take you to Vientiane - the Capital of Laos. Upon your arrival, you will be greeted and taken to your centrally located hotel. Vientiane is a charming and fascinating capital with an interesting mix of Lao, Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, French, and American influences.

The first stop on our city tour is the gorgeous 200 year old Wat Sisaket temple which was the sole surviving temple during the Thai invasion of 1828. Next we will get to see the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo which previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image. Finally, experience the breathtaking Patouxai & That Luang Stupa, a spectacular monument to Buddha.

You will spend the rest of the night in Vientiane.

Day 14: Vientiane  Pakse – Wat Phu – 4000 Islands Once you finish your breakfast, you will be free to do whatever you wish while waiting to go to the airport for your departure flight to Pakse. Upon your arrival, you will be greeted by our guide and driver and they will then bring you to the pier for the boat cruise down the Mekong River to Champassak. Here you will get to visit the fascinating pre-angkorian ruins of Wat Phu which is one of Southeast Asia's most dramatically situated temples. We have time to explore these intriguing Khmer ruins, which are perched at the base of Mount Phu Kao. The Wat Phu was classified as a World Heritage Site in 2002. This wonderful archeological site of Khmer civilization dates back to the 10th century, predating the famous Angkor Wat in Cambodia. We will continue our journey by land to Don Khong, the largest island in the South Mekong river region known as the 4000 islands, one of the most scenic areas in Laos.

Spend the night on Don Khong Island.

Day 15: 4000 Islands – Full day Surrounding

The day starts with a trip on a long-tail riverboat through the maze of waterways and into the tropical paradise of Siphandone “The 4,000 Islands”. During the rainy season, the Mekong River reaches a width of 14km. When the water recedes, it leaves behind a myriad of islands and islets. You will get to visit the Det and Som Islands for a glimpse of the way of life of the fisherman. Afterwards, you will arrive in Khone Island where you can discover some of the colonial vestiges. One of the sites to see is an old railway, which was built by the French in 1897 in order to bypass the powerful rapids that disrupt the navigation along the Mekong River. Next we will continue on to see the Liphi Waterfall, which is home to a colony of fresh water dolphins. These dolphins are an endangered species known as the Irrawaddy Dolphins.

After Liphi Waterfall, get ready to cross the Mekong River and continue to the famous and gorgeous Waterfalls of Khone Phapeng. This is the largest cascading waterfall on the Mekong River along its 4,350 km journey from the Tibetan Plateau to the South China Sea. Finally, we will return to the Khong Island where you will spend the night.

Day 16: 4000 Island – Tadlo Bolaven Plateau – Pakse Upon leaving Done Khong Island, we continue our journey towards Tadlo, through Boloven plateau. The Boloven Plateau is known for its cooler temperature being located high above the Mekong Valley. Rivers run off this high plateau in all directions and then plunge out to lush forests along in a series of spectacular surging waterfalls. A trip to the plateau provides a refreshing break from the heat and allows you to observe the cultivation of rich coffee, tea, cardamom, bananas, and other crops that are grown in this area.

This trip gives visitors the chance to venture off the beaten track and to discover some of the lesser-known areas of Laos, exploring the wild beauty of this southern region. Upon arrival at Tad Lo waterfall, we visit the villages of Alak, Nge, and Katu, populated by ethnic minority groups. Once you arrive in Pakse by late afternoon, you will be brought to the hotel for check-in and where you will spend the night.

Day 17: Pakse – Departure On the day of your departure, you are free to shop, relax and do whatever you would like at your leisure until you are transferred to the Pakse Airport for your departure flight. This is the end of our service.

YOUR ASIAN DREAM

BuRma – thailand (11 DAYS/10 NIGHTS) Routing:

Yangon – Bagan – Mandalay – Inwa – Inle Lake – Bangkok

If you love architecture, culture and artifacts in beautiful and often mysterious settings that are still off the main tourist trail, this is the trip for you. You will spend a breathtaking time exploring the hidden beauties of Burma (Myanmar) completing the tour in the ever popular and endearingly wonderful Bangkok.

Day 1: Arrive Yangon and transfer On your arrival at Yangon International Airport, you will be welcomed and greeted by our guide and driver who will take you to your hotel for check-in. We will start our sightseeing tour in Yangon.

Sightseeing features the beautiful Kandawgyi Lake, as well the Botataung Pagoda. The Pagoda is a hollowed out structure and you are able to walk through and see many ancient relics and artifacts. We will finish our tour today with a visit to the awe-inspiring Shwedagon Pagoda which towers over all of Yangon. It is perhaps the most beautiful pagoda complex in all of Asia and is one sight that no visitor to Myanmar should miss. You will spend the night in Yangon.

Day 2: Yangon  Bagan Sightseeing After breakfast at the hotel, we will go to the busy Nyaung Oo Market, Bagan’s distinctive pagodas such as Shwezigon, a prototype of later Myanmar stupas and Wetkyi-in- Gubyaukgyi, a 13th century which is a cave temple with interesting fine frescoes.

In the afternoon, we will continue to some of explore Asia’s most popular archaeological destinations such as the Ananda Pagoda, one of the finest, largest and best persevered in Old Bagan, Ananda Ok Kyaung, one of the few surviving brick monastery buildings from the Early Bagan period and Htilominlo Temple which is known to be the last Myanmar style temple built in Bagan. As the sun goes down, we will be at one of the ideal viewing sites selected by our tour guide for a panoramic sunset view over the temples. You will spend the night in Bagan.

Day 3: Bagan – Salay – Mt. Poga – Bagan After breakfast, we will drive to Salay, which will take 1 ½ hours. It is famous for the spectacular woodcarving monastery "Yoke-Sone-Kyaung'' built in 1882. We will also visit the museum (it is closed

on every Monday, Tuesday and gazette holidays) of Myanmar, made famous by writer U Pone Nya and the lacquer ware "Man" pagoda built in 1300.

Then we will drive to Bagan stopping en route, visit Mt. Popa which is said to have risen from the ground in a massive earthquake in 442 BC. Mt. Popa is famous as the abode of the Nats (Spirit Gods) and for its panoramic view of the local tropical region. There is a volcanic plug with a temple on top that we can climb up to if you choose. Along the way, you will see a local toddy palm farmer and see how toddy palm juice and sugar are produced. We will spend the night in Bagan.

Day 4: Bagan  Mandalay – Amrapura – Inwa Sightseeing After breakfast, we go to the airport to catch a flight to Mandalay. We will Travel to the ancient royal capital of Amarapura. Here we will visit Mahagandayon monastery, which is a school for young monks, and the nearby U Bein bridge. The bridge is more than two centuries old and at 1.2 km it is the longest teakwood span in the world.

Later we will visit another former royal capital, Inwa which was founded in 1364 and lasted nearly 400 years as a royal capital. Highlights include the 'leaning tower of Ava', Maha Aungmye Bonzan, a brickand-stucco monastery, and the elegant teakwood monastery called Bagaya Kyaung. You will return back to your hotel where you will spend the night in Mandalay.

Day 5: Mandalay Sightseeing Today, we pay a visit with highly revered Mahamuni Pagoda; a gold leaf craftshop, Kuthodaw Pagoda, whose 729 marble stone slabs of Buddhist scriptures have earned it the title ‘World’s Biggest Book’. Continue to Shwenandaw Monastery, the only remaining building from the 19th century Royal Palace. This grand teak building is known for its exquisite woodcarving. Head to the top of Mandalay Hill as the sun begins to set to enjoy magnificent views of the city and Irrawaddy River. Overnight in Mandalay.

Day 6: Mandalay  Heho – Inle Lake You will have breakfast at the hotel. Upon your arrival at Heho airport, we will drive to Nyaung Shwe, the gateway village to Inle Lake. Along the way, we will stop at the wooden Shwe Yan Pyay Monastery which features beautiful carvings and a collection of Buddha images.

Upon reaching the Inle Lake, we will board a private motorboat to head out to Inle Lake, one of Myanmar’s most spectacular sights. We will pass villages built on stilts over the lake, inhabited by the local Intha people. Observe the leg-rowing fishermen and see their floating gardens built up from strips of water hyacinth and mud and anchored to the bottom with bamboo poles. Visit Nga Hpe Chaung

Monastery, which houses dozens of Shan Buddha Images. Continue to Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, the lake’s main sanctuary, which contains five sacred Buddha images covered in gold leaf.

We will explore the local crafts of Inle Lake with a stop at the weaving village of Inpawkhone and a cheroot factory, where the typical Burmese cigars are made by hand. We will spend the night at Inle lake.

Day 7: Indainn Sightseeing From the middle of the lake, we will continue down a small canal leading to the Pa-oh village of Indainn.

On arrival, we will continue to the Inainn area on foot, strolling around the village, visiting a local school, and wander through the beautiful Alaung Sitthou area. Here you can climb the covered stairway to the top of a hill which is covered with picturesque ancient stupas and has magnificent views of the lake below. You will spend the night at Inle lake.

Day 8: Heho  Yangon – Bangkok You will have breakfast at the hotel. You will be brought to the airport to fly back to Yangon. Upon your arrival, you will connect to your flight to Bangkok. Once you arrive, you will be picked up and brought to the city center to check into your hotel. You are free to discover Bangkok at night. You will spend the night in Bangkok.

Day 9: Bangkok Sightseeing Today you will take the drive to visit the spectacular Royal Grand Palace, Emerald Buddha Temple and Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha). Then visit Museum of Siam (The museum opens from Tuesday to Sunday and closes on Monday) and ride on a tuk-tuk to the Flower Market. After lunch (on your own), we will board a long-tail boat for a fascinating trip along the Bangkok Noi Canals (Venice of the East). Then visit Wat Trimit (Golden Buddha). Return to the hotel in the evening. You will be free at your leisure.

You will spend the night in Bangkok.

Day 10: Bangkok – Ayuthaya – Bangkok We drive to Ayutthaya (the former Capital of Thailand). Upon arrival, we will visit Bang Pa-In Summer Palace which was once used as State Banquet Hall. We will continue to Wat Chai Wattanaram also known as Khmer temple. Later on, visit Wat Phra Sri Sanpetch & Viharn Mongkol Borphit, the former Royal Temple. Drive to Wat Chong Lom Pier for a cruise down the Chao Phraya River to Bangkok. You will enjoy a buffet lunch which is served on board. The boat arrives at the River City Pier in Bangkok. Later in the day, we will take you to MBK Hall or Siam Paragon the shopping mall.

You will spend the night in Bangkok.

Day 11: Bangkok – Departure After having breakfast at hotel, you are free at your leisure till check out and being brought to Suvarnabhumi International Airport for the flight back home. This is the end of our service.

the highlights and delights of Viet nam and BuRma(myanmaR) (16 DAYS/15 NIGHTS) Ho Chi Minh – Vinh Long – Da Nang – Hoi An – Hue – Ha Noi – Ninh Binh – Ha Long – Yangon – Bagan – Salay – Mt. Popa – Heho – Inle Lake This trip offers the thrilling highlights of these two exotic and fascinating countries. Be charmed by the two largest cities in Viet Nam as well as the historical and extraudinarily engaging towns of Hoi An and Hue as well as the rural settings of Ninh Binh and Ha Long Bay. Then move onto to the mysterious land of Burma (Myanmar) where you will be awestruck by the magnificence of this rich and largely unexplored country from the capital city of Yangon to the exquisite beauty of the Pagados and countryside including Mt Poga and Inle Lake.

Day 1: Arrival Ho Chi Minh City On your arrival at the Tan Son Nhat International Airport, you will be picked up and transferred to your hotel (early check-in is subject to the hotel’s availability). Being the heart and soul of South Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh is a bustling, dynamic and industrious city. It is not only the largest city but also the economic capital and trendsetter of Vietnam. Yet within the teeming metropolis are the timeless traditions and beauty of an ancient culture. You can enjoy a myriad of street markets, shops, pavements, cafes, standson-wheels and vendors all with their wares spread out on the sidewalks as well as history, culture and beautiful architecture. Let the exhilarating vibe of Ho Chi Minh City fill you with joy and wonder.

Your city tour will start with a visit to the Reunification Palace, a tribute to the war when the gates came crashing down in Saigon to the North Vietnamese. In the same area is the Notre Dame Cathedral with

the twin bell towers that form the most famous landmark in Ho Chi Minh that can be seen for miles. You will spend the rest of the night in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 2: HCM City – Vinh Long – HCM City After breakfast, we leave the City for a beautiful scenic drive through the Mekong River Delta, home to the richest agricultural lands in Vietnam. Enjoy a boat trip to an island that houses orchard gardens and the beautiful Cai Be floating market, a famous place in the Mekong Delta. The Cai Be floating market is a magnificent site to see as hundreds of small merchant boats anchor alongside the banks of the river trading their commodities. We continue with our cruise through the maze of canals that crisscross around An Binh island.

Lunch is served at Mr. Muoi Huong old house. We can enjoy the delicious fresh tropical fruits of the Delta as we continue to cruise through islands and cross the Mekong River to Vinh Long (2km). On our way back to Ho Chi Minh City, we will visit the bonsai garden. Savor dinner with the delicious food and elegant music. You will spend the night in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 3: HCM City  Da Nang – Hoi An We start the day with a half day tour around the city and a visit to the Thien Hau Temple. Thien Hau is a 16th century Chinese temple in Cholon, which is dedicated to Thien Hau or the goddess of the sea who is said to protect fishermen and sailors. A trip to the War Remnants Museum will introduce some culture and history as you experience this tribute to the Vietnam War. Lunch will be served at Chateau 1 Restaurant.

In the early afternoon, you will be transferred to Tan Son Nhat Airport to catch the flight to Da Nang City in the Central region of Vietnam. Upon your arrival, you will be picked up and taken to the beautifully illuminated ancient town of Hoi An where you will spend the rest of the night and be free to relax at your own leisure.

Day 4: Hoi An Today we enjoy a walking tour through the narrow and ancient streets of this charming town. Perhaps more than any other place in Vietnam, Hoi An retains the feel of centuries past. Once known as Faifo, Hoi An was an influential port along the Silk Road. For over 500 years, merchants from China, Japan, France and Portugal settled in the prosperous town resulting in a distinctive blend of culture, cuisine, religions and architecture. In 1999, the town was declared an UNESCO World Heritage Site listed for having the most unique architecture in Southeast Asia. It has been restored and protected by both the UNESCO funding and proud locals ever since. Lunch will be served at the Cargo Restaurant.

Take the whole afternoon to relax and be lazy on the beach or be adventurous and set of and explore the surroundings of Hoi An by bicycle, visit the local market or take a trip down the river: the choice is yours.

Day 5: Hoi An – Da Nang – Hue We will leave Hoi An and travel north to Hue City through the emerald-green paddy fields. Hue was the political, economic and cultural capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty (1802–1945) and used to be the home of past emperors. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to stop en route to take pictures at the summit of Lang Co Beach, Hai Van Pass and visit the Cham Museum located in Da Nang City. The museum offers the most extensive collection of Cham art sculptures throughout the world.

The sculptures date from the 7th to the 15th century.

Our tour of Hue starts at the beautiful Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site since 1993. The Citadel includes the Imperial City and Forbidden City. Enjoy the various palaces, ornate halls, libraries, residences, colleges, Flag Tower and Noon Gate. We then visit the traditional Dong Ba Market, a typical market that has existed in this way for centuries where vendors sprawl their goods out for you to walk around and select the items you want. Dinner will be served at Y Thao Garden Restaurant. You will stay the rest of the night in Hue. Day 6: Hue We spend the entire day exploring ancient Hue and finding its beauties and marvels. We start by taking a boat trip down the romantic Perfume River to the Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the oldest and most beautiful pagodas in Hue. After that we move on to see the Minh Mang Tomb who was emperor of Vietnam from 1820 to 1841. Enjoy a vegetarian lunch and take the chance to chat with the nuns to learn more about Buddhism and gain insight into their daily lives and their calligraphy art.

In the afternoon, we will start our journey by heading to the outskirts of Hue to explore the Tu Duc Tomb.

On the way back to Hue, you will get to see a traditional village where they make conical hats and incense.

Enjoy dinner and relax to traditional folk music on the mystic dragon boats down the beautiful Perfume River. You will spend the night in Hue. Day 7: Hue  Ha Noi After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport to catch the flight Ha Noi. Ha Noi is over 1000 years old and is the current capital of Vietnam as well the commercial, political, and cultural heart of the country. Once you arrive in Hanoi, you will be brought downtown to check into the hotel.

A city tour of Hanoi starts with a visit to the Temple of Literature. The temple was built in October 1073 to worship Confucius and is considered to be the first university in Vietnam. We will then drive to Hoan Kiem Lake where you will see Ngoc Son Temple which worships Van Xuong saint and Tran Hung Dao,

a former general commander. You can then walk down the elegant tree lined boulevards where we can see many French influences such as Hanoi Opera House, the State Bank, the former Governor's palace, and the Hanoi Cathedral (Saint Joseph’s built in the late 19th century). Finally, you can relax and enjoy a 1-hour cyclo ride around the 36 streets in the Old Quarter of Hanoi. After that, you are free to explore on your own in this splendid and exciting city or relax in your hotel room. You will spend the night in Hanoi.

Day 8: Ha Noi – Hoa Lu – Ha Noi Today you will experience the ancient culture and history of Vietnam as well seeing the stunning landscape and beautiful scenery en route to the Ninh Binh Province. This area is known as “Ha Long Bay on land” and is located 80 km South of Hanoi.

We will go for a relaxing sampan ride through the gentle and elegant landscape of plains and mountains leading to the beautiful and mysterious Tam Coc Grottoes followed by a gentle cycle ride (4km) to Bich Dong Cave. This journey takes you through breath taking scenery of rice fields and imposing mountains.

We then move on to the Thai Vy Temple where we will have lunch. Being built in the 13 th century, the Thai Vy Temple offers magnificent insight and depth into the ancient Vietnamese culture. Once departing the Thai Vy Temple, we then head off to Hoa Lu, formally the capital of the Dinh and early Le dynasties between the 10th and 11th centuries.

We will then head back to Ha Noi where, later in the evening, we will enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants before going to see the unique and intriguing Water Puppet Show, a traditional folk performance held on the Red River Delta. You will spend the rest of the night in Ha Noi. Day 9: Ha Noi – Ha Long After breakfast, we drive to Ha Long Bay, one of the most beautiful places in Southeast Asia. The Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The day starts with a leisure boat ride through the breathtaking Ha Long Bay where you will see mountainous peaks (karsts) reaching majestically out of the water. Lunch will be fresh local seafood cooked in the characteristically delicious style of the Vietnamese and served onboard while cruising to Bai Tu Long Bay, Teapot Islet, Blockhouse Islet, and Goat Head Islet.

We will explore the mystery of Sung Sot Cave, one of the most beautiful caves in Ha Long Bay before getting the opportunity to relax at a beautiful beach where you can enjoy swimming & kayaking. Later we will head back to the boat to enjoy a beautiful sunset while cruising to the Hang Trong area to anchor at Ho Dong Tien, near Trong cave. During the evening, relax to the casual and comfortable atmosphere on the luxury boat with an elegant dining experience. If we are in the right season, we can see fresh squid being caught the traditional way.

And after all that, relax under the clear, starry sky, enjoying the peace and quiet of the Bay before retiring to your cabin for the night.

Day 10: Ha Long – Ha Noi – Yangon (Burma) After breakfast, we will continue to cruise through the karsts some of which display fantastic and mystical shapes before getting into a small boat to visit the Luon Cave. Back on board for an early lunch before saying goodbye to our boat and crew and heading by road to Hanoi where you will be brought to the airport to catch the flight to Yangon. Upon your arrival, you will be picked up and transferred to your hotel and the rest of the night is free to your leisure.

Day 11: Yangon After breakfast, we start our sightseeing tour in Yangon. Sightseeing features include the beautiful Kandawgyi Lake, Botataung Pagoda, which has been hollowed out and allowing you to walk through it to view many ancient relics and artifacts. We finish our tour today with a visit to the awe-inspiring Shwedagon Pagoda which towers over all of Yangon. It is perhaps the most beautiful pagoda complex in all of Asia and is one sight that no visitor to Myanmar should miss. You will spend the night in Yangon.

Day 12: Yangon - Bagan After breakfast at the hotel, we set out for a tour of one of Asia’s most popular archeological destinations, the busy Nyaung Oo Market, Bagan’s distinctive pagodas such as Shwezigon, a prototype of later Myanmar stupas and Wetkyi-in- Gubyaukgyi, a 13th century ‘cave temple with interesting fine frescoes.

In the afternoon, we explore the Ananda Pagoda, one of the finest, largest and best persevered pagodas in Old Bagan, Ananda Ok Kyaung, one of the few surviving brick monastery buildings from the Early Bagan period and Htilominlo Temple, known to be the last Myanmar Style temple built in Bagan. As the sun goes down, we will be at the ideal viewing site for a panoramic sunset view over the temples. You will spend the night in Bagan.

Day 13: Bagan – Salay – Mt. Poga – Bagan After breakfast, we drive to Salay, 1 and half hours. It is famous for spectacular woodcarving monastery "Yoke-Sone-Kyaung'' which was built in 1882, museum (it is closed every Monday, Tuesday and gazette holidays) of Myanmar famous writer U Pone Nya and lacquer ware "Man" pagoda built in 1300.

Then drive to Bagan. We will stop en route, visit Mt. Popa which is said to have risen from the ground in a massive earthquake in 442 BC. Mt. Popa is famous as the abode of the Nats (Spirit Gods) and for its panoramic view of the local tropical region. We can climb to the top to see the temple that is built on the volcanic plug. Along the way, you will see a local toddy palm farmer and see how toddy palm juice and sugar are produced. You will spend the night in Bagan.

Day 14: Bagan  Heho – Inle Lake We leave Bagan for Heho airport and then drive to Nyaung Shwe, the gateway village to Inle Lake.

Along the way, you can see the wooden Shwe Yan Pyay Monastery which features beautiful carvings and a collection of Buddha images.

Upon reaching the edges of Inle Lake, board a private motorboat to head out to Inle Lake, one of Myanmar’s most spectacular sights. Pass villages built on stilts over the lake, inhabited by the local Intha people. Observe the ‘leg-rowing’ fishermen and see their floating gardens built up from strips of water hyacinth and mud and anchored to the bottom with bamboo poles. We visit Nga Hpe Chaung Monastery, which houses dozens of Shan Buddha Images, Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, the lake’s main sanctuary which contains five sacred Buddha images covered in gold leaf.

You can explore the local crafts of Inle Lake with a stop at the weaving village of Inpawkhone and a cheroot factory, where the typical Burmese cigars are made by hand. You will spend the night at Inle lake.

Day 15: Indainn Sightseeing From the middle of the lake, continue down a small canal leading to the Pa-oh village of Indainn. On arrival, continue to the Inainn area on foot, strolling around the village, visit a local school, and wander through the beautiful Alaung Sitthou area. Here you can climb the covered stairway to the top of a hill which is covered with picturesque ancient stupas and has magnificent views of the lake below. You will spend the night at Inle lake.

Day 16: Heho – Yangon – Departure On the day of your departure, you are free to shop, relax and do whatever you would like at your leisure until you are transferred to the Yangon Airport for your departure flight. This is the end of our service.

Historical and Cultural highlights Vietnam – CamBodia (13 DAYS/12 NIGHTS) Ha Noi – Ha Long – Hoi An – Hue – Ho Chi Minh – Vinh Long – Can Tho – Chau Doc – Phnom Penh – Siem Reap

As close neighbors, Vietnam and Cambodia share some similarities but are totally unique in their own history and culture. This trip takes you through a journey of discovery to see and experience many beautiful, magnificent and awe inspiring sites.

Day 1: Arrival Ha Noi On your arrival at the Noi Bai International Airport, you will be welcomed by our guide and driver who will bring you to Hanoi City. Hanoi is over 1000 years old and is currently the capital of Vietnam as well the commercial, political, and cultural heart of the country.

A city tour of Hanoi starts with a visit to the One-Pillar Pagoda. We will then take a drive to visit the Temple of Literature. The temple was built in October 1073 to worship Confucius and is considered to be the first university in Vietnam. We will then drive to Hoan Kiem Lake where you will see Ngoc Son Temple which worships Van Xuong saint and Tran Hung Dao, a former general commander. Hanoi is a city of contrast, walk down the tree lined boulevards in the French quarter to see many French influences such as Hanoi Opera House, the State Bank, the former Governor's palace, and the Hanoi Cathedral (Saint Joseph’s built in the late 19th century).

Later in the afternoon, you can relax and enjoy a 1-hour cyclo ride around the 36 streets in the Old Quarter of Hanoi followed by a welcome dinner at one of the many local restaurants. After that, you are free to explore on your own or relax in your hotel room. You will spend the night in Hanoi.

Day 2: Ha Noi – Ha Long After breakfast, we drive to Ha Long Bay, one of the most beautiful places in Southeast Asia. The Bay is a UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The day starts with a leisure boat ride through the breathtaking Ha Long Bay where you will see mountainous peaks (karsts) reaching majestically out of the water. Lunch will be served onboard while cruising to Bai Tu Long Bay, Teapot Islet, Blockhouse Islet, and Goat Head Islet. Fresh local seafood will be served in the characteristically delicious style of the Vietnamese.

We will explore the mystery of Sung Sot Cave, one of the most beautiful caves in Ha Long Bay before getting the opportunity to relax at a beautiful beach where you can enjoy swimming & kayaking. Later we will head back to the boat to enjoy a relaxing sunset while cruising to the Hang Trong area to anchor at Ho Dong Tien, near Trong cave. During the evening, relax to the casual and comfortable atmosphere on the luxury boat and enjoy an elegant dining experience. If we are in the right season, we can see fresh squid being caught the traditional way.

You can then relax under the clear, starry sky, enjoying the peace and quiet of the Bay before retiring to your cabin for the night.

Day 3: Ha Long – Ha Noi  Da Nang – Hoi An After breakfast, we will continue to cruise through the karsts which some of them display fantastic shapes, many of which have ancient stories connected to them. We also pass Hoa Cuong and Ga Choi Islands on the way to visit Luon Cave. Back to the boat for an early lunch after which we say goodbye to the boat and to the crew and head back by road to Hanoi stopping en route at Bat Trang ceramics and pottery village where they make and sell all kinds of ceramics, embroidery and marble statues. Once you arrive in Ha Noi, you will be transferred to Noi Bai Airport to catch the flight to Da Nang in the central region of Vietnam and then drive to Hoi An where you will check into your hotel and be free to roam and explore or rest and relax as you wish.

Day 4: Hoi An Today we enjoy a walking tour through the narrow and ancient streets of this charming town. Perhaps more than any other place in Vietnam, Hoi An retains the feel of centuries past. Once known as Faifo, Hoi An was an influential port along the Silk Road. For over 500 years, merchants from China, Japan, France and Portugal settled in the prosperous town resulting in a distinctive blend of culture, cuisine, religions and architecture. In 1999, the town was declared an UNESCO World Heritage Site listed for having the most unique architecture in Southeast Asia. It has been restored and protected by both the UNESCO funding and proud locals ever since. Lunch will be served at the Cargo Restaurant.

Take the whole afternoon to relax and be lazy on the beach or be adventurous and set of and explore the surroundings of Hoi An by bicycle, visit the local market or take a trip down the river: the choice is yours.

Day 5: Hoi An – Da Nang – Hue You will depart from Hoi An to Hue City through the emerald-green paddy fields. Hue was the political, economic and cultural capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty (1802–1945) and used to be the home of past emperors. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to stop en route to take pictures at the summit of Lang Co Beach, Hai Van Pass and visit the Cham Museum located in Da Nang City. The museum offers the most extensive collection of Cham art sculptures throughout the world. The sculptures date from the 7th to the 15th century. Once you arrive in Hue, you will be taken downtown to check into the hotel and then be free at your leisure. Dinner will be served at one of the local restaurants in Hue City.

You will stay the rest of the night in Hue. Day 6: Hue We spend the entire day exploring ancient Hue and finding its beauties and marvels. We first start off by taking a boat trip down the romantic Perfume River to the Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the oldest and most

beautiful pagodas in Hue. After that we move on to see the Minh Mang Tomb who was emperor of Vietnam from 1820 to 1841. Enjoy a vegetarian lunch and take the chance to chat with the nuns to learn more about Buddhism and gain insight into their daily lives and their calligraphy art.

In the afternoon, we will start our journey by heading to the outskirts of Hue to explore the Tu Duc Tomb.

On the way back to Hue, you will get to see a traditional village where they make conical hats and incense.

Enjoy dinner and relax to traditional folk music on the mystic dragon boats down the beautiful Perfume River. You will spend the night in Hue. Day 7: Hue  Ho Chi Minh City After breakfast, we leave Central Vietnam and head for the more fast-paced modernized city of Ho Chi Minh City, formally known as “Saigon”. You will be transferred to the airport to catch the flight to Ho Chi Minh where you will be picked up and taken to check into your hotel.

The HCM tour starts with a visit to the imposing Dong Khoi Street (formerly Rue Catinat). Next we will go to the Notre Dame Cathedral, the most famous landmark in Vietnam as the twin bell towers can be seen from a long distance. In the same square is the famous Saigon Post Office, the largest functioning post office in Vietnam. What makes this Post Office so extraordinary is that it was designed and built by Gustave Eiffel who also designed and built the Eiffel Tower and Statue of Liberty. It is a building not to be missed. After that, you will travel and see China Town, Binh Tay Market and Thien Hau Temple.

After some history and culture, we will take you to do some shopping at the Ben Thanh Market. The rest of the night is yours to venture out on your own or relax in your hotel room.

Day 8: Ho Chi Minh City – Vinh Long – Can Tho After breakfast, we leave Ho Chi Minh City for a beautiful scenic drive through the Mekong River Delta, home to the richest agricultural lands in Vietnam. Enjoy a boat trip to an island that houses orchard gardens and the beautiful Cai Be floating market, a famous place in the Mekong Delta. The Cai Be floating market is a magnificent site to see as hundreds of small merchant boats anchor alongside the banks of the river trading their commodities. Continuing by boat, you will get to see a family-run enterprise that produces coconut candy. After lunch, we will take a car to Can Tho where you will spend the night and be able to relax and rest for the next day. Dinner will be served at one of the local restaurants.

Day 9: Can Tho – Chau Doc Begin your day with a gentle boat ride down the Mekong River to the beautiful Cai Rang Floating Market which is one of the most bustling floating markets in Mekong Delta with hundreds of small boats laden fruits barging and jostling for space as owners attempt to sell their goods. You will be served lunch

and dinner at local restaurants. After the Cai Rang Market, you will take a ride to Chau Doc where you will check into the hotel. After that you are free to venture out on your own or relax in your hotel room.

Day 10: Chau Doc – Phnom Penh The day starts with a speed boat trip to enter the Kingdom of Cambodia and head towards its capital, Phnom Penh. Upon your arrival at Phnom Penh boat port, you will be greeted by our guide and driver who will bring you to your hotel.

Today you will get a chance to visit the Royal Palace which used to house the kings of Cambodia until internal problems arose. Next to the Royal Palace stands the Silver Pagoda which is one of the most beautiful Pagoda’s around due to its lavish style. Built in 1962, the Silver Pagoda has statues of Buddha’s made from precious metals and stones. The floors are made from concrete and marble. The pagoda has over 5000 silver tiles each weighing 1 kilo. It is famous for its 90 kg solid gold Buddha made in 1907 and an emerald Buddha said to be made of baccarat crystal. After that, you will be taken to the National Museum of Phnom Penh which houses the world’s largest and extensive collection of Khmer and Angkor art. We end the tour with a visit to the Wat Phnom Pagoda.

For the rest of the night, you will be able to go shopping at the Russian market as well enjoy the night life of Cambodia. You will spend the night in Phnom Penh.

Day 11: Phnom Penh  Siem Reap After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport to catch the domestic flight to Siem Riep where you will be greeted your guide and driver. We enter Angkor Thom Temple through the South Gate marvel at the wonders of the eerie Bayon, the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King. Next you will get a chance to visit one of 7 wonders of the world - Angkor Wat which was built for king Suryavarman II in the early 12th century. It is the largest and most preserved temple at the site. Later in the evening, enjoy the breathtaking sunset from Phnom Bakheng hill. To make your trip even more memoriable and enjoyable with Khmer culture, we offer you a 1 hour full body or foot massage at one of the local shops. Later in the evening, indulge in an elegant buffet dinner and relax to a beautifully performed Apsara Dance Show at the Angkor Mondial Restaurant. After that you are free to venture out on your own or relax in your hotel room. You will spend the rest of the night in Siem Reap.

Day 12: Siem Reap After breakfast, we head out to visit the Banteay Srey, considered one of the most unusual of the Angkor temples in Cambodia. It is built mostly of red sandstone, which covered with elaborate and deeply carved decoration. After that, we will travel to Preah Khan, a huge monastic complex. The complex is full of carvings and passages for you to explore. Along the way, lunch will be served at a local restaurant.

Later in the afternoon, you will get to see the Roluos Group. The Roluos Group is a collection of monuments that represent the remains of the Hariharalaya, the first major capital of the Angkorian-era Khmer Empire. It has become known as the ‘Roluos Group’ due to its proximity to the modern town of Roluos. You will also get the opportunity to visit one of the most popular Angkor Temples which is the Ta Prohm Temple. Ta Prohm is unlike most other Angkor temples in the sense that it has been untouched over the years. The jungle that weaves itself protectively through and around the ruins creates a mystical and awesome sight and atmosphere. Finally, you will have dinner and stay the rest of the night in Siem Reap.

Day 13: Siem Reap – Departure Your last day starts with a boat cruise on the Tonle Sap Lake to experience and enjoy the daily life of the local people at the floating village. Next visit Les Artisans d’Angkor - Chantiers Ecoles. This is a workshop that teaches people the beautiful art of stone and wood carving traditional to Cambodian artistry. You will also get the chance to get those last minute souvenirs and presents at the old market.

After that you are free to do whatever you choose at your leisure until you are transferred to the Siem Reap Airport. This is the end of our service.

A TRIO OF TREASURES OF INDOCHINA

Vietnam – laos – CamBodia (15D/14N) Ha Noi – Ha Long – Vientiane – Luang Prabang – Pak Ou – Phnom Penh – Siem Reap – Ho Chi Minh – Vinh Long – Tay Ninh – Cu Chi This 15 day tour takes you to the main treasures of these three enchanting countries. You will take flights, boat rides and drives to get to the significant tourist attractions of these three close neighbors who share borders but are totally and intriguingly unique in their cultures, history, food and ways of being.

Day 1: Arrival Ha Noi On your arrival at the Noi Bai International Airport, you will be welcomed by our guide and driver who will then take you to your hotel in Hanoi City. Hanoi is over 1000 years old and is the capital of Vietnam

as well the commercial, political, and cultural heart of the country. Later in the afternoon, you will get a chance to relax for a 1-hour cyclo ride around the 36 streets in the Old Quarter of Hanoi followed by a welcome dinner at one of the many local restaurants. After that, you are free to explore on your own or relax in your hotel room.

Day 2: Ha Noi A city tour of Hanoi starts with a visit to the One-Pillar Pagoda. We will then take a drive to visit the Temple of Literature. The temple was built in October 1073 to worship Confucius and is considered to be the first university in Vietnam. We will then drive to Hoan Kiem Lake where you will see Ngoc Son Temple which worships Van Xuong saint and Tran Hung Dao, a former general commander. Hanoi is a very diverse city. You can walk down the tree lined boulevards in the French quarter to see many French influences such as Hanoi Opera House, the State Bank, the former Governor's palace, and the Hanoi Cathedral (Saint Joseph’s built in the late 19th century).

You will also get to see the unique and intriguing Water Puppet Show, a traditional folk performance held on the Red River Delta. Dinner specialties of Hanoi Cha Ca fish cooked in a brazier with aromatic herbs. You will stay the rest of the night in Ha Noi. Day 3: Ha Noi – Ha Long After breakfast, we drive to Ha Long Bay, one of the most beautiful places in Southeast Asia,. The Bay is a UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The day starts with a leisure boat ride through the breathtaking Ha Long Bay where you will see mountainous peaks (karsts) reaching majestically out of the water. Lunch will be served onboard while cruising to Bai Tu Long Bay, Teapot Islet, Blockhouse Islet, and Goat Head Islet. Fresh local seafood will be served in the characteristically delicious style of the Vietnamese.

We will explore the mystery of Sung Sot Cave, one of the most spectacular caves in Ha Long Bay before getting the opportunity to relax at a beautiful beach where you can also enjoy swimming & kayaking.

Later we will head back to the boat to enjoy a relaxing sunset while cruising to the Hang Trong area to anchor at Ho Dong Tien, near Trong cave. During the evening, relax to the casual and comfortable atmosphere on the luxury boat where you will have an elegant dining experience. If we are in the right season, we can see fresh squid being caught the traditional way.

You can then relax under the clear, starry sky, enjoying the peace and quiet of the Bay before retiring to your cabin for the night.

Day 4: Ha Long – Ha Noi

After breakfast, we will continue to cruise through the karsts some of which display fantastic and mystical shapes before getting into a small boat to visit the Luon Cave. Back on board for an early lunch before saying goodbye to our boat and crew and heading back on the road to Hanoi stopping off at the Bat Trang ceramics and pottery village. The village sells all kinds of ceramics, embroidery and marble statues.

Dinner will be served at the “Rung” Restaurant. You will stay the rest of the night in Ha Noi. Day 5: Ha Noi  Vientiane After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport to catch the flight to Vientiane. You will arrive in Vientiane where you will be welcomed by our driver and first brought into town for hotel check-in. In the afternoon, you will visit some of the most spiritual Buddhist locations in Laos including the 200 year old Wat Sisaket temple (the sole surviving temple during the Thai invasion of 1828), the magnificent Ho Phrakeo Chapel (which houses the Emerald Buddha and dates back to the Lane Xang Kingdom) and the breathtaking Patouxai & That Luang Stupa (monument to Buddha). You will spend the rest of the night in Vientiane.

Day 6: Vientiane  Luang Prabang After breakfast, you will be taken to the airport to catch the flight to Luang Prabang. You will be greeted upon arrival and driven to the hotel for check-in and to drop off your luggage. (Early check-in is NOT included and is subject to hotels availability).

You will then get a chance to enjoy a sightseeing tour of the sacred city of temples, where nearly fifty still remain. Afterwards, you will get the chance to see the National Museum which was the former king’s Palace. The Palace was built upon an older Palace foundation and finished in 1909 by French architects.

Here you will get to see a blend of French and Laos art such as paintings and murals of the royal family.

In the reception area, you can see busts of all the past Lao kings. Next, see the peaceful Wat Mai, the largest and most richly decorated of the temples in Luang Prabang. You can then enjoy a casual stroll around the Darat market to observe the locals buying and selling goods. Finally we will climb the 328 steps to the summit of Mount Phousi which dominates the sky-line of Luang Prabang and provides the finest panoramic view in the whole city. For the remainder of the day, you are free to do whatever you wish and you will spend the night in Luang Prabang.

Day 7: Luang Prabang – Pak Ou – Luang Prabang After breakfast, we go to the 450 year old Vat Xieng Thong which has survived Chinese sieges as well the wear and tear over time. The Vat Xieng Thong is a UNESCO world heritage site. Then onto the Mekong River for a 2 hour riverboat cruise towards the Pak Ou which is at the confluence of the Nam Ou,

and Mekong Rivers. Here you will visit the sacred caves of Tham Ting and Tham Phum, home to hundreds of Buddha Statues.

Have lunch at a local restaurant near one of the caves before heading back to Luang Prabang. On the way, we will stop at the Ban Xang Hai village where sticky rice wine distillation can be observed and the weaving village of the Ban Xang Khong where the traditional Sa paper is produced. You will spend the night in Luang Prabang.

Day 8: Luang Prabang  Phnom Penh After breakfast, we go by car to the Wat Visoun temple which was built in the 16th century and is designed in a Singhalese-style stupa. In the same areas are That Makmo, and Wat Aham, both the city’s major tutelary shrines housing the puppets of Lao ancestors. And then to the airport for your transfer flight to Phnom Penh where you will check into the hotel and spend the night.

Day 9: Phnom Penh  Siem Reap After breakfast, we visit the Royal Palace which used to house the kings of Cambodia until internal problems arose. Next to the Royal Palace stands the Silver Pagoda, one of the most beautiful Pagoda’s around due to its lavish style. Built in 1962, the Silver Pagoda has statues of Buddha’s made from precious metals and stones. The floors are made from concrete and marble. The pagoda has over 5000 silver tiles each weighing 1 kilo. It is famous for its 90 kg solid gold Buddha made in 1907 and an emerald Buddha said to be made of baccarat crystal. We then go to the National Museum of Phnom Penh which houses the world’s largest and extensive collection of Khmer and Angkor art. The museum stands as a tribute to both the Khmer and Angkor era. At the end of the city tour, we will get to explore the Wat Phnom Pagoda.

In the early afternoon, you will be transferred to the airport for the domestic flight to Siem Riep where you will be greeted by our guide and driver. We will then get a chance to visit one of 7 wonders of the world Angkor Wat which was built for king Suryavarman II in the early 12 th century. It is the largest and most preserved temple at the site. Later in the evening, enjoy the breathtaking sunset from Phnom Bakheng hill. You will spend the rest of the night in Siem Reap.

Day 10: Siem Reap On day 10, enter the areas by the South Gate of Angkor Thom Temple and marvel at the wonders of the eerie Bayon, the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King. You will also get the opportunity to visit one of the most popular Angkor Temples, the Ta Prohm Temple. Ta Prohm is unlike

most other Angkor temples in the sense that it has been untouched over the years. The jungle that weaves itself protectively through and around the ruins creates a mystical and awesome sight and atmosphere. To make your trip to Siem Reap even more memorable and enjoyable, we offer you a 1 hour full body or foot massage at one of the local shops. You will spend the rest of the night in Siem Reap. Finally, you will have dinner and stay the rest of the night in Siem Reap.

Day 11: Siem Reap After breakfast, we head out to visit the Banteay Srey, which is considered one of the most unusual of the Angkor temples in Cambodia. It is built mostly of red sandstone, which is covered with elaborate and deeply carved decoration. And then we travel to Preah Khan, a huge monastic complex. The complex is full of carvings and passages for you to explore. Along the way, lunch will be served at a local restaurant.

After lunch, you will see the Roluos Group. The Roluos Group is a collection of monuments that represent the remains of the Hariharalaya, the first major capital of the Angkorian-era Khmer Empire. It has become known as the ‘Roluos Group’ due to its proximity to the modern town of Roluos. Our journey will end with a boat cruise on the Tonle Sap Lake to experience and enjoy the daily life of the local people at the floating village. After that you are free to venture out on your own or relax in your hotel room.

Day 12: Siem Reap  Ho Chi Minh City This morning you are free to shop, relax and do whatever you would like at your own leisure until you are transferred to the Siem Reap Airport to get the flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon your arrival, you will be picked up and taken to your hotel.

The HCM tour starts with a visit to the imposing Dong Khoi Street (formerly Rue Catinat). Next we will go to the Notre Dame Cathedral, the most famous landmark in Vietnam as the twin bell towers can be seen from a long distance. In the same square is the famous Saigon Post Office, the largest functioning post office in Vietnam. What makes this Post Office so extraordinary is that it was designed and built by Gustave Eiffel who also designed and built the Eiffel Tower and Statue of Liberty. It is a building not to be missed. After that, you will travel and see China Town, Binh Tay Market and Thien Hau Temple.

After some history and culture, we will take you to do some shopping at the Ben Thanh Market. The rest of the night is yours to venture out on your own or relax in your hotel room.

Day 13: HCM City – Vinh Long – HCM City We leave the big city for a beautiful scenic drive through the Mekong River Delta, home to the richest agricultural lands in Vietnam. Enjoy a boat trip to an island that houses orchard gardens and the beautiful

Cai Be floating market, a famous place in the Mekong Delta. The Cai Be floating market is a magnificent site to see as hundreds of small merchant boats anchor alongside the banks of the river trading their commodities. We continue with our cruise through the maze of canals that crisscross around An Binh island.

Lunch is served at Mr. Muoi Huong old house. We can enjoy the delicious fresh tropical fruits of the Delta as we continue to cruise through islands and cross the Mekong River to Vinh Long (2km). On our way back by road to Ho Chi Minh City, we will visit the bonsai garden. Enjoy dinner with delicious dishes and elegant music. You will spend the night in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 14: HCM City – Tay Ninh – Cu Chi – HCM City Stunning landscapes, beautiful scenery culture and history are all on the menu after breakfast. The day begins with an excursion to Cao Dai Temple in Tay Ninh which combines Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Christianity and Islam religions giving it a unique appeal and interest. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant. We will then visit some of the marvels of the Vietnam War as we take you just outside of Ho Chi Minh to visit the extraordinary Cu Chi Tunnels. The tunnels were built by the Viet Cong guerillas and formed a labyrinth virtually underneath the U.S bases and were used for surprise raids and to avoid air strikes. The tunnels themselves extend over 200 kilometers. Later in the afternoon, you will travel back to Ho Chi Minh City where you will have dinner at the floating restaurant on Saigon River and spend the rest of the night.

Day 15: HCM City – Departure On the day of your departure, you are free to shop, relax and do whatever you would like at your leisure until you are transferred to the airport for your departure flight. This is the end of our service.

Things to do on the outskirts of HA NOI Hanoi City is over 1000 years old and is currently the capital of Vietnam as well the commercial, political, and cultural heart of the country. Many of the countries grandiose events take place here.

The Capital of Vietnam and one of the hidden gems of South East Asia and a city of huge contrasts from the quaint streets of the old Quarter to the elegance and charm of the French Quarter with the fine old colonial buildings and tree lined boulevards.

CooKing Class and Bat tRang CeRamiC Village Private Journey – full day/available daily

Enjoying the variety and subtlety of Vietnamese cuisine in a restaurant is one thing, learning to cook the dishes for oneself is quite another. Join our introduction to Vietnamese home cooking. You will then visit handicraft village famous for its ceramics for a thousand years. The potters specialize in creating dinner ware and ornamental ware typical of Vietnam.

Depart at 8.30am from your hotel and travel with our guide and driver to Van Giang village in Hung Yen province (20km from Hanoi). On your arrival, a Vietnamese cook will escort you to the local market where she will help you can to choose the fresh ingredients. Under her instruction and guidance, you will cook some Vietnamese food and learn something about Vietnamese culture through their style of cooking and eating. And of course, after cooking, you get to enjoy your delicious creation for lunch. In the afternoon, we depart for Bat Trang Ceramic village where you can watch the complete production procedure of the pottery from preparing the clay, shaping the items, creating the artwork and firing the item in the kiln. Products can be purchased at a very reasonable price. Tour finishes at 17.30 in Hanoi.

day tRip to peRfume pagoda Private Journey – 1 day

The Perfume Pagoda or Chua Huong in one of the most important Buddhism religious sites in Vietnam and is just 1.5 drive outside of Hanoi,. The Pagoda itself is built into limestone cliffs and you can reach by boat and foot or cable car. For this trip, we take the most attractive route to the Pagoda along the scenic waterways. We then walk up mountain path to access the pagodas and temples have been built in this area over a number of centuries.

A small private row boat (sampan)will take you through the beautiful landscape along the Yen River with a brief stop at Den Trinh (pagoda of presentation). We continue the journey to the foot of the Huong Tich Mountain (mountain of the fragrant traces). From here, a stone flagged path takes you to Thien Tru (pagoda leading to heaven) built in the 17th century and dedicated to the goddess Quan Am. The onward trek to Huong Tich Chu (pagoda of the perfumed vestiges) is both interesting and rewarding. When you reach the top, you will have fine views to embrace & an appetizing picnic lunch to eat. After your climb down mountain, re-join your waiting sampan and relax for the 2 hours trip back up the river to your waiting vehicle. Tour finishes at 6.30pm.

CRuising thRough ha long Bay (2 DAYS/1 NIGHTS)

Day 1: Ha Noi – Ha Long We leave Hanoi at 8.30am and travel to the astonishing and mystical Ha Long Bay. The Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful places in the region. Located in the Gulf of Tonkin, it is a spectacular collection of 2,000 islands covering an area in excess of 1,500km. This forms a spectacular seascape of limestone pillars and cliff faces (karsts) that reach majestically out of the sea.

Our crew will welcome you on board with drinks and a fresh seafood lunch. You will cruise towards Bai Tu Long Bay, passing the towns of Hon Gai and Cam Pha, Oan Lagoon, Mat Quy (Monster Head) and Am Tich (Teapot) Islets and Vung Vieng fishing village.

We will explore the mystery of Sung Sot Cave, one of the most beautiful caves in Ha Long Bay. Later in the day, you will have plenty of time for swimming and kayaking to the Tunnel Cave. During the evening, relax in the casual and comfortable atmosphere of the luxury boat and enjoy an elegant dining experience.

If we are in the right season, we can see fresh squid being caught the traditional way. Get your cameras ready for a spectacular sunset then relax under the clear, star filled sky retiring to your cabin for the night at your pleasure.

Day 2: Ha Long – Ha Noi After breakfast, we will continue to cruise through the karsts some of which display fantastic and mystical shapes before getting into a small boat to visit the Luon Cave. Back on board for an early lunch before saying goodbye to our boat and crew and heading back on the road to Hanoi.

things to do on the outsKiRts of hue

Hue is the former imperial capital of Vietnam and has been a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site since December 1993. Hue is graced by picturesque scenery, unique and incomparable beauty from the National Park Bach Ma (White Horse) to the sublime beaches of Lang Co and Canh Duong. Thuan An, perfectly illustrates the variety of landscapes and richness of the central region. Nature harmonizing perfectly with the imperial heritage of the province's identity.

Hue is also known as the Mecca of the Buddhist religion. Within the city and its surrounding areas, there are dozens of pagodas over 300 years old, and hundreds of temples and pagodas dating from the 20th century.

Visitors also have the opportunity to experience up to a dozen craft villages around Hue. The city is host to many annual festivals and cultural celebrations.

And if all of that was not enough. Hue is also well known for its culinary specialties. The locals have a unique taste and style of cooking that is celebrated and sought after throughout the country.

There are many excursions and essential sites to explore in and around Hue.

home Visit in hue This tour option is completely new and unique to HGHue Travel. It allows tourists’ to go into a local family home and experience their lives and traditions firsthand. You will start by going to the local market with the housewife to shop for the foods that will be prepared for the afternoon lunch. The family members will also share with you the family albums and other memorabilia as they tell you about their history, tradition, and culture.

In the morning, you will be welcomed by your friendly local host at your hotel. Start the greeting off right by saying ‘Xin Chao’, meaning ‘hello’. You will go for a short trip to your host’s house with the option of stopping at a vibrant local market to shop for produce and other foods that will be used in the preparation of lunch.

Once at your host’s house, you are encouraged to view the family’s photo albums as well sharing cultural experience with one another. You will go for a short walk to visit the family ancestral house where you

will get the opportunity to learn about the customs associated with worship. You will also meet the artist who currently holds the record for the most paintings exhibited on the street during our world famous Hue Festival.

You can also partake in the preparing and cooking of the traditional dishes that will be served during lunch and then enjoy the fruits of your labor by tasting and experiencing the traditional dishes for lunch.

You will learn about the ingredients, how to prepare each dish as well as the history of the meal during lunch. At the end of the tour, you will return to your hotel or continue your trip.

(This excursion starts around 8:00 AM and finish around 1:00 PM).

hue – phuoC tiCh – tam giang This 2 day tour package is designed for tourists who are looking for a more eco-touristic experience by traveling to the places less seen by other people. This fantastic experience brings you closer than ever to the people and customs of this area. You will get to cruise through the Tam Giang Lagoon and learn about the daily lives of the fishermen and people as well explore the wooden house communities that exhibit fine arts.

Itinerary for the dry season only – 2 days 1 night Day 1: Hue – Phuoc Tich – Tam Giang (L, D) Travel by road from Hue City to Phuoc Tich Village, approximately 30 minutes. This quaint little village dates back to the 15th century and is circled by a gentle river named O Lau and has many paved winding walkways to explore. On your arrival, you will be welcomed by a local who will take you on a tour of the beautiful scenery and amazing ancestral houses. You will also learn about the history of the handmade pottery that has been made here for centuries when visiting the in-house museum.

Have a delicious lunch at a traditional local house, all made with home-grown ingredients. You will get to take a break and interact with the host before leaving for Quang Ngan commune.

At Quang Ngan, you can take an easy bike ride or travel by car to the vegetable fields and learn about local agriculture activities. You can also join in the production process of harvesting wet rice. After this, we will go to a warm wild beach that offers golden sand and blue water for you to enjoy. The last activity

of the day will be to take a local sampan cruise through the gentle waters of Tam Giang Lagoon to visit the fishing farm where you can try your hand at collecting fish from the traps boar.

We then take a local cruise to see the sunset. Afterwards, you will get back home, have dinner with your host and spend the night at the home stay.

Day 2: Tam Giang – Hue (B) You will get an early wake up call to visit the fish market where purveyors will purchase fish to sell in other areas. After that, you will head back to the home stay for breakfast before saying goodbye to your host and driving back to Hue City. This is the end of the tour.

CRuise on tam giang lagoon - half day The Tam Giang Cruise offers a different type of tour option for people looking for something different to the traditional historical or spiritual tourism found around Hue. Perhaps you have already seen the temples, pagodas, royal palaces, or tombs and are looking for something different. Or maybe you just want something more adventurous. If so, the Tam Giang Cruise is just for you. This tour allows you to cruise through the gentle shallow waters of Tam Giang Lagoon and experience firsthand what it is like for the fishermen and people of this area. Enjoy a magnificent sunset towards the end of the tour.

Itinerary at glance You will be picked up by vehicle at 02:30 pm and take a 20 minute drive to Thuan An Beach where you will board a wooden boat with max capacity of 30 people for a relaxing float on the Tam Giang Lagoon.

30 minutes into the cruise, you will switch to a sampan boat where you learn about and experience what life is like for the fishermen of this area. While drifting through the shallow waters of the lagoon, you will be invited to learn how to fish in the traditional manner with the locals.

At the end of the tour, you will get to enjoy some snacks and fruits that are available before landing. You will arrive by road in Hue City around 06:00 PM.

an aCtiVe eCotouRist expeRienCe at Chay lap (2days/1night) Day 1: Hue – DMZ – Chay Lap (L/D) At 08:00 am, our guide and driver will meet you at your hotel/airport/railways station in Hue, and depart to Chay Lap Village. En route, we will stop to visit some remaining places on the DMZ (Demiliterized Zone) route such as Hien Luong Bridge, and the Vinh Moc Tunnels. Here you will get a chance to learn about the Vietnam War. You will have lunch at Cua Tung Beach.

You will get to Chay Lap in the afternoon, check into the homestay and then head out on bicycles for a taste of ecotourism as you venture through the National Park where you will get a chance to the local nature in the tranquility of the forest. You will get to view some of the rare wild animals in Red-book that have been re-discovered and preserved there such as Ha Tinh langur, Annamese Leaf Monkey Trachypithecus hatinhensis, Annamese Macaques, Mountain hockey bird…

We will return to the homestay before dark and you can choose to help prepare and cook the dinner with the host if you wish. You will be guided to learn how to cook the local food called: “Steamed Fish with Beer, served along with local herbs”. You will spend the rest of the night at Chay Lap homestay.

(Today you will get to go cycling for a distance that is approximately 20km, for amateur cyclists would like to enjoy a fun-biking, the distance can be shortened within 10km).

Day 2: Chay Lap – Hue (B/L) Start the day off right with breakfast at the Chay Lap homestay. After breakfast, we will leave the homestay for kayaking on Chay River to the Dark Cave, Nuoc Mooc Springs. A short trek through the Park with a local guide will then teach you about the codes of a conservation environment before we have a picnic lunch on one of the paths in the forest and enjoy swimming at Nuoc Mooc Springs.

Next on the agenda for the day is to take a bus to the boat landing for a cruise on the Son River to visit the Phong Nha Cave, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site and a breathtakingly beautiful cave.

And finally, we head back to Hue via the Ho Chi Minh Highway in the late afternoon and take you to your hotel. End the services.

(Today kayaking distance is approximately 5km, trekking distance is 2km).

Things to do on the outskirts of Hoi An Located in the center of Vietnam, between Hanoi and Saigon, the ancient city of Hoi An is edged on the West by the majestic mountain of Truong creating a natural border with Laos and on the East by spectacular beaches. Just 108 km south of Hue and 30 km from Da Nang, Hoi An is famous for its picturesque and peaceful lifestyle.

Perhaps more than any other place in Vietnam, Hoi An retains the feel of centuries past. Once known as Faifo, Hoi An was an influential port along the Silk Road. For over 500 years, merchants from China, Japan, France and Portugal settled in the prosperous town resulting in a distinctive blend of culture, cuisine, religions and architecture. In 1999, the town was declared an UNESCO World Heritage Site listed for having the most unique architecture in Southeast Asia. It has been restored and protected by both the UNESCO funding and proud locals ever since.

From Hoi An, you can easily access cultural and natural treasures of the Central Region, Patriomine registered UNESCO World Sanctuary, My Son ruins of the ancient kingdom of Champa are about 60km from Hoi An, Hue, the former imperial capital and the National Park of Phong Nha-Ke Bang.

Hoi An offers the most exciting agricultural experiences where you gain insights of the lives of local people.

disCoVeR tRaditional handiCRaft Villages

This exciting excursion combines boat cruising, bicycle riding and visits to local villages. You will not only enjoy the beautiful nature of Hoi An, but also the day to day life and unique handicraft skills of the villagers.

Tour Duration: Full day You start this full day excursion with a short walk down to the harbor of Hoi An where you board a wooden boat and cruise upstream to Thanh Ha, a local Pottery village on the bank of the Thu Bon River.

Thanh Ha village is famous for making tiles, pots and vases in the local style and with the old tradition skills. The local contractors use their skills to restore bricks, tiles and floors in the old town of Hoi An and are the only ones who can do so.

After exploring the village, take a cruise across the river and continue upstream to the Carpentry village of Kim Bong. Over the centuries, Kim Bong has had a huge influence on the architecture found in the ancient town of Hoi An. Here in Kim Bong the old carpenter skills are kept alive and still used for restoring the old buildings in Hoi An. From Kim Bong Village, take a bicycle ride around the island and enjoy the peaceful and tranquil surroundings. It will take you about an hour to stop at Tra Nhieu to visit a small exhibition near the river. You will also have the opportunity to see the old traditional fishing tools that were used generation after generation. Some of these tools are still used by the local fisherman today.

You will head back by boat to the ancient town of Hoi An. End of service.

disCoVeR eCo-fRiendly faRming and fishing The farming & fishing life tour provides you with a close-up and intimate exposure to both the local farming and fishing communities.

Tour Duration: Half day Accompanied by your tour guide, you commence the day leisurely by cycling along the beautifully peaceful country roads. There will be many photo opportunities including water buffalo working in a rice paddy field, farmers tending their crops or ducks swimming along the rice farm.

You will also get to experience the friendliness of the local people who will warmly greet you along the way. The Eco-Tour river boat will take you cruising down the river to meet and engage with local

fishermen where you will be able to try your hand at traditional fishing using a net. You will also get to had a go at paddling the unique Vietnamese bamboo basket boat while exploring the coconut-palm flanked waterways.

This tour provides you with a cultural window that exposes you to the ways of life for both the farming and fishing communities.

tRa Que VegetaBle Village Tra Que is a small village secluded in a green garden of vegetables which used to be a farming gardening village that provided all the fresh vegetables for the Hoi An people. When tourists began to visit Hoi An, Tra Que became a place where visitors could learn and seek different things. The daily life of these old streets brings new experiences.

Tour Duration: Full day Experience one day living and working with the local people at the Tra Que vegetable village. A short stroll from the village takes you to the gardens to join the farmers in preparing the land and fertilizing it with seaweed from the local lake. The experience includes raking the ground, sowing, watering, and picking the vegetables as well many other gardening activities.

After this, you will take a short rest and enjoy a foot bath before helping to prepare lunch with a local family. The lunch will consist of many local delicacies including ‘Tam huu’ spring roll, Banh Xeo, a pancake of the people in this middle region of Vietnam.

After your morning excursion and your lunch, you will take a Vietnamese traditional post-prandial nap before learning how to harvest and wrap vegetables. This is the end of the tour.

disCoVeR the Cham islands The Cham islands are 15km from Cua Dai. There are seven islands altogether named according to their shape and characteristics. They are called Lao (pear), Dai (long), La (leaf), Kho (dry), Tai (ear), Mo (tomb) and Nom (East Wind). All of the islands have a beautiful climate and are cool all year

round. Trees and animals as well as marine life are all plentiful here. There are also scenic spots around the island such as Suoi Tinh (Love stream), Suoi Ong (Sir’s stream), Hon Chong (Piled up rocks), Hang Ba (The lady’s cave). The island is also surrounded by gorgeous beaches with clean white sand and transparent, cool water.

Your local guide will pick you up at the hotel and take you to the Cua Dai harbor to register with the Border Police before heading to the islands. Arriving on the island, your guide will take you to the information building where the history, map, and objects are displayed. Visiting Au Thuyen, you will get to see where the local boats are moored to protect them from big storms, as well walking along the rice field to the 100-year-old temple of Hai Tang.

We then head back to the boat for snorkeling for half an hour at Xep beach. Here you can swim and see the forest of beautiful coral under the sea after which we go to Chong beach for lunch and relaxation. Back to Cua Dai estuary, from where we will take you by car back to Hoi An.  Remarks: The program can be extended to one-night stay on island.

things to do on the outsKiRts of ho Chi minh City Ho Chi Minh is a bustling, dynamic and industrious city and the heart and soul of South Vietnam. It is not only the largest city but also the economic capital and trendsetter of Vietnam. Yet within the teeming metropolis are the timeless traditions and beauty of an ancient culture. The city streets of Ho Chi Minh offer a myriad of street markets, shops, pavements, cafes, stands-on-wheels and vendors all with their wares spread out on the sidewalks. Let the exhilarating vibe of Ho Chi Minh City fill you with joy and wonder.

full day touR to Cao dai temple & Cu Chi tunnel

The Cu Chi tunnel, 70km from North West of down town Ho Chi Minh, is a well known historical vestige of the Vietnamese revolution. This tunnel complex is a network of underground dug-outs of over 200km long, consisting of many layers and turnings with many meeting, living and fighting quarters.

Cao Dai Holy See is located in Tay Ninh Province, around 100km from Ho Chi Minh City. The temple is an architectural wonder, a mixture of styles from the many contributing religions and ornamented in brilliant colors.

Stunning landscapes, beautiful scenery, culture and history are all on the menu after breakfast. The day begins with an excursion to Cao Dai Temple in Tay Ninh which combines Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Christianity and Islam religions giving it a unique appeal and interest. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant. We will then visit one of the marvels of the Vietnam War as we take you just outside of Ho Chi Minh to visit the extraordinary Cu Chi Tunnels. The tunnels were built by the Viet Cong guerillas and formed a labyrinth that spread underneath the U.S bases. The tunnels and were used for surprise raids, to avoid air strikes and as a base for the guerillas. Later in the afternoon, you will travel back to Ho Chi Minh City.

day tRip to meKong delta

Explore the rice bowl of Vietnam in this day trip to the Mekong Delta. Cruise through the lush green vegetation of the Mekong canals to an orchard, where you will be served with a delicious lunch complete with tropical fruits. Rowing along these canals and visiting the floating markets is a truly memorable experience.

We leave Ho Chi Minh City for a beautiful scenic drive through the Mekong Delta which is home to the richest agricultural lands in Vietnam. Enjoy a boat trip to an island that houses orchard gardens and the beautiful Cai Be floating market, a famous place in the Mekong Delta.

The Cai Be floating market is a magnificent site to see as hundreds of small merchant boats anchor alongside the banks of the river trading their commodities. Once at My Tho, you will take a boat trip to an island that houses orchard gardens. Afterwards take a horse-drawn cart to Quoi Son where you will see a bee farm and enjoy various teas and candies. Next you will gently float down the tree-lined canals of the Mekong Delta in a comfortable sampan. Continuing by boat, you will get to see a family-run enterprise that produces coconut candy.

After lunch, return by boat to My Tho, and if time permits we will visit the Vinh Trang Pagoda. By late afternoon, you will arrive back in Ho Chi Minh City.

meKong delta disCoVeRy (2 days/1 night)

Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City – Vinh Long – Can Tho We leave Ho Chi Minh City for a beautiful scenic drive through the Mekong River Delta, home to the richest agricultural lands in Vietnam. Enjoy a boat trip to an island that houses orchard gardens and the beautiful Cai Be floating market, a famous place in the Mekong Delta. The Cai Be floating market is a magnificent site to see as hundreds of small merchant boats anchor alongside the banks of the river trading their commodities. Continuing by boat, you will get to see a family-run enterprise that produces coconut candy. After lunch, we will take a car to Can Tho where you will spend the night and be able to relax and rest for the next day. Dinner will be served at one of the local restaurants.

Day 2: Can Tho – Ho Chi Minh City Begin your day with a gentle boat ride down the Mekong River to the beautiful Cai Rang Floating Market, one of the bustling floating markets in Mekong Delta with hundreds of small boats laden fruits barging and jostling for space as owners attempt to sell their goods. You will be served lunch and dinner at local restaurants. After the Cai Rang Market, you will return by road to Ho Chi Minh City.

BEACH EXTENSION IN VIETNAM phu QuoC It's rare to find an island as unspoilt and yet so bursting with possibility as Phu Quoc Island, which rises like an emerald from the waters off the south-west coast of Vietnam. Gorgeous scenery might be dime a

dozen in Vietnam, but the landscapes on Phu Quoc belong to a different order of loveliness altogether.

This is due to the island's isolation and low population, and its location smack bang in the middle of the sublimely beautiful Gulf of Thailand. Here you will find is solitude, and gorgeous scenery piled on in spades. Imagine soft secluded beaches, the water a thousand different shades of turquoise. Stunning sunsets, thunderclouds heaped on the horizon. Palm trees protruding perpendicular over the gentle waves.

That's Phu Quoc. Everywhere you look you'll want to take a photo.

Located on Phu Quoc Island, La Veranda Resort Phu Quoc, member of the MGallery collection, boasts a style reminiscent of a French seaside mansion. Set in tropical gardens on a beautiful stretch of beach, the resort boasts evocative design comprising a richblend of dark woods, fine linens and mosaic tiles, complemented by large terraces with sweeping views. In addition to 43 rooms with private balconies, La Veranda Resort Phu Quoc features two restaurants, a lounge bar, swimming pool, water sports and day spa.

From the comfortable loungers at the Veranda Resort, the visitor can be forgiven for confusing the movements of their soul with the waves of the ocean. Because this hotel resort to the south of Vietnam, in a French colonial style, creates a traditional and elegant atmosphere. Traditional tiled roofs, dark woods, fine linen, shaded alcoves, the Veranda Resort orchestrates, with brio, a harmonious attentive service for a journey of discovery.

phan thiet Located in Binh Thuan province, Phan Thiet is 200 km from Saigon and lies south of Cam Ranh bay on the southernmost stretch of Central Vietnam. Binh Thuan was once a part of the Cham kingdom. In 1692, Lord Nguyen Phuc Chu captured the area and named it Binh Thuan Dinh. Binh Thuan is quite important in Vietnam's history, as it was because of this area that in 1306 King Tran Nhan Tong agreed to the marriage of princess Huyen Chan to King Jaya Sinhavarman III of the Cham Kingdom. During the revolution against the French, it was in this area that the two patriots Phan Chu Trinh and Tran Quy Cap had their start. Furthermore, according to local lore, the area around Phan Thiet is where Han Mac Tu, the disfigured poet, spent his time forlornly as he waited for Mong Cam, the lady of his dreams.

Nestled within the unique eco-system of rivers, sand dunes and red canyons of the Binh Thuan province, yet merely a few hours drive from Ho Chi Minh City, the PRINCESS D'Ă‚N-NAM Resort & Spa is a

fascinating destination in itself. This is apparent immediately upon arrival, when guests are greeted by an invigorating ocean breeze and near-infinite stretches of pristine white sand.

The resort's majestic architecture is the work of award winning architect Tan Hock Beng, which features a village-style layout and patterned walls that reveal a spectacular view of the ocean. Complementing its charming, post-colonial ambiance and tranquil surroundings is the sweet scents of the Ginger Garden, designed by Alan W.Carle who is well-known for his work in the Singapore Botanical Gardens.

And awaiting to pamper its guests with treatments both traditional and exotic is the 1,800m2 Spa, overlooking an ancient lighthouse. Its single rooms offer privacy, and its suites for couples promise a time of blissful romance.

Guests can choose from 36 Mandarin Suites, 10 Princess Villas and three Empress Villas. Each Princess Villa includes a private plunge pool and open-air bathtub, and each of the two-storey Empress Villas offer a private infinity pool and a spectacular view of Ke Ga bay.

Offering a refreshing experience and impeccable service, the PRINCESS D'Ă‚N-NAM welcoming you to a gold carpet welcome.

nha tRang Nha Trang is the coastal capital of Khanh Hoa province, Vietnam. Its legendary pristine beauty is known throughout Southeast Asia. A place of soft white sand, surrounded by warm, turquoise waters filled with an abundance of sea life and dotted with islands. The 7 km long, palm-lined sandy beach makes Nha Trang one of Vietnam's most popular destinations for Vietnamese and visitors alike. A backdrop of mountains to the west and north not only provide picturesque scenery, but serve to protect Nha Trang from the rest of the country's weather patterns.

Nha Trang enjoys the well deserved reputation of having the best climate in Vietnam, with an estimated 250 days of sunshine a year and temperatures between 24 - 38 c. The rainy season starts at the end of October until January lasts towards the end of the year. As for the rest of the year, clear blue skies and a mirror like sea are almost guaranteed.

Evason Ana Mandara & Six Senses Spa - Nha Trang reflects the image of an old Vietnamese village, with its warm hospitality, rich culture and unique tastes. The exclusive location of Evason Ana Mandara

affords city-centre access to Nha Trang’s only beachfront resort. It is surrounded by private tropical gardens, offering simplicity, serenity and refinement together with spectacular views of Nha Trang Bay.

hoi an Perhaps more than any other place in Vietnam, Hoi An retains the feel of centuries past. Once known as Faifo, Hoi An was an influential port along the Silk Road. For over 500 years, merchants from China, Japan, France and Portugal settled in the prosperous town resulting in a distinctive blend of culture, cuisine, religions and architecture. In 1999, the town was declared an UNESCO World Heritage Site listed for having the most unique architecture in Southeast Asia. It has been restored and protected by both the UNESCO funding and proud locals ever since.

Along a seemingly infinite stretch of sand, amidst Vietnam’s richest cultural heritage, a strand of sophisticated, visually striking villas lines the dramatic beachfront. Inspired by 2,500 years of history, The Nam Hai’s architecture and interior design presents a dramatic play on wind and water inspired by ancient feng shui philosophy and the grandeur of the Tu Doc royal tombs of Hue. Explore the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Hoi An, My Son and Hue with its Buddhist pagodas, royal tombs and historic citadels. Return to our calm, tropical shore on Ha My Beach to relax around three expansive swimming pools, in the spa on a lotus pond, over gourmet Eastern and Western cuisine or in the privacy of one of our 100 private retreats, elegantly finished with Vietnamese lacquer and diaphanous silk, some of which are served by a most attentive butler.

lang Co Known as a wild picturesque sea view, Lang Co is the ideal beach for summer vacation and wild beauty discovery! Lang Co is a famous beach of Thua Thien-Hue Province, best known for its ever most beautiful natural landscapes and pure sea wildness. Strategically situated inside the zone of 3 World Heritage Conservation Centers (Hue ancient citadel, Hoi An old town, and My Son holy land), Lang Co is only 30 kilometers from Da Nang, and 70 kilometers from Hue. Accordingly, this helps develop diversified types of tourism, and keeps tourists to stay there longer. Lang Co is attached to a number of beautiful names by admiring tourists, some of which are “Beautiful lady of fishing village”, “Greater beauty than picture”, and so forth. You will soon discover the names’ derivation once you have come here.

A quiet fishing village of yesteryear, Lang Co is now home to the coast’s newest integrated resort, Laguna Lang Co. Built on a unique crescent bay offering privacy and unparalleled exclusivity, Banyan Tree Lang Co is the most luxurious edition of the resort and hotel collection of the Laguna Lang Co complex.

Designed and conceptualised to attract the well-heeled and knowledgeable traveller, the five-star all-pool villa resort is a destination in itself.

MICE TOURISM IN VIETNAM Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions Vietnam has successfully organized many political, socio-economic events, exhibitions and large international fairs.

These are just three specific examples: •

The Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation summit was attended by 21 presidents and leaders of nations and economic groups at the end of 2006 in Ha Noi.

•

The 48th International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) in July, 2007.

•

Earth beauty contest in Nha Trang, Khanh Hoa Province in November 2007.

There have also been numerous successful exhibitions and fairs on international industry, agriculture, culture, tourism, music festivals.

Vietnam has a thousand year history with many historical vestiges, cultural architecture, and beauty spots around in the regions in Vietnam. It is a peaceful and safe country and the Vietnamese are a nationality of warmth, friendliness and an open and accepting nature. The economic and tourism infrastructure development is extensive and ongoing in Vietnam which makes it an increasingly perfect choice for visitors of all kinds including those involved in MICE projects coming from all corners of the globe.

WHEN CHOOSING MICE, CHOOSE HGH! HGHue M.I.C.E prides itself on its ability and dedication to providing top quality customer service when organizing conferences, incentive trips, festivals and any other special event that may take place.

Our Team

Our team are highly skilled and experienced in supporting visitors in what they need when visiting our country. Our directors and management team have over 20 years experience. Our younger staff are enthusiastic and energetic in their duties and tasks. The more experienced staff offer extensive training, support and monitoring to the less experienced staff members. We pride ourselves at HGHue Travel in being more than a team and more like a cohesive FAMILY. We work together to provide our consumers with the best organized and most enjoyable and memorable experiences possible.

Our Services The quality of our service is unmatched in comparison to any and all other tour companies in Viet Nam. This is due to the high level of professionalism of organization blended with a caring and compassionate approach. We offer customizable and affordable tour and travel services that not only allow travelers to experience Indochina in a way they would never imagine, but also protects our environment and contribute to the growth of our communities. We work directly with other organizations such as hotels, transportation and multi-lingual tour guides to provide the highest quality of service imaginable.

Our Innovation Our dedicated staff are constantly working and thinking of ways to create new tour packages and services while improving our existent services. With research, hard work and dedication, our team is always making adjustments to provide more beneficial and enjoyable services to our customers. Our greatest strength is our ability to adjust and adapt our services to the needs of the customer.

We Take the Worrying Away For You We know that when you travel, you may need help at a moments’ notice. Our team is always ready to offer support and help to people who are inquiring about travel plans as well as for those people in the process of a tour. We are here to provide information, make bookings and solve any queries or issues that many develop.

Our responsive team is ready and able to answer any questions the consumers may have. Whether our customers are in need of general information or booking flights, hotels, special events, or tour packages, we will respond within 12-24 hours based on time zone difference. Our team is prepared to assist in any way possible via phone or email.

Our Leader:

Quy Nguyen graduated from Hue University in 1995 and received his Bachelor’s Degree in English. He graduated from Ha Noi National University in 2005 and received his Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism. He has 20 years of experience in the tourism field starting in 1993 when he began as a tour guide. He started working for Huong Giang Travel Company based in Hue City from September 1995 until June 2012.

By 1996, he moved up to Operations and Sales Department then by 1998 became a director at Huong Giang Travel. While at Huong Giang Travel, he received the ‘Vietnam’s Top Ten Tour Operator’ Awards for the years of 2003, 2006, 2007, and 2008. He founded HGHue Travel and is currently the Chairman and Executive Director.

Quy’s highest personal recognition was when he received the Certificate of Merits from Vietnam’s Prime Minister. It is his dream and ambition to take HGHue Travel to a new level of tourism. HGH Travel will offer innovative and exclusive tour packages throughout the Indochina region that no other company can offer in quality or affordability. With Quy’s vision and insight, HGHue Travel will be one of the top tour operator in all of Indochina. HGHue has a pristine reputation for offering only the highest quality and standard of tour packages and services.

DESTINATION INFORMATION

VIETNAM ďƒ˜ VISAS: All visitors are required to have a valid visa to enter Vietnam. A one-month tourist visa is usually sufficient for most visitors though it is possible to arrange 3-month and 6-month multiple entry visas for regular visitors. All visitors must obtain visa approval from the Vietnamese Immigration Department before a visa is issued. The Vietnamese embassy or consulate will issue a visa if the following information is to be forwarded at least one month before departure: your full name as stated in the passport, passport number, date of issue and expiration of passport, date and place of birth, nationality, occupation and home address.

Visas can also be obtained upon arrival in Ha Noi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang Airports, in which case a stamping fee will be charged separately. Apart from the required visa details, arrival and departure date, as well as flight information is needed. HGH Travel will send a confirmation letter confirming that the passengers will receive visa on arrival. ďƒ˜ WEATHER: The climate in Vietnam differs greatly from North to South due to geographical diversity. There are no good or bad seasons for visiting Vietnam. When one region is wet, cold or steamy hot, there is always somewhere else that is sunny and pleasantly warm.

Vietnam stretches over 1,800 square kilometers from north to south with several ranges of mountains.

Due to this wide range of latitude and altitude, the weather pattern varies from region to region. In the North, the rainy season is from August until November. Typhoons are sometimes a problem, but quite rare. The North can be quite chilly from December to February.

In Central Vietnam, the rainy season is from October until December. Heavy rain and flooding can interrupt travel and Hue, Da Nang and Nha Trang may have to be missed if traveling overland.

The climate in the Mekong Delta is sub-equatorial with two main seasons: wet and dry. The wet season lasts from May to October with short, sharp drenching downpours occurring almost every day. The dry season lasts from November to April. ďƒ˜ CURRENCY The currency is Vietnamese Dong (VND). Foreign currencies can be exchanged at the banks, exchange bureaus or hotel reception desks. Travelers' cheque and most of Credit cards are accepted in the major

cities. We recommend that you bring some cash with you. Check online currency exchange at Vietcombank: http://www.vietcombank.com.vn/en/exchange%20rate.asp

 TIME Time zone: GMT/UTC + 7 (the same zone as Thailand, Laos and Cambodia) Business days: Monday through Friday.

Business hour: Mornings: 07h30 - 12h00; Afternoons: 13h00 - 16h30.

Museums are usually closed on Monday but you can visit temples and pagodas every day. Most restaurants and shops open from 08h00 till 22h00.  HEALTH & SAFETY Pack medications in their original, clearly labeled, containers. A signed and dated letter from your physician describing your medical conditions and medications, including generic names, is also a good idea. If carrying syringes or needles, be sure to have a physician’s letter documenting their medical necessity. If you have a heart condition, bring a copy of your ECG taken just prior to travelling.

If you happen to take any regular medication, bring double your needs in case of loss or theft. In most Southeast Asian countries, you can buy many medications over the counter without a doctor’s prescription, but it can be difficult to find some of the newer drugs, particularly the latest antidepressant drugs, blood pressure medications and contraceptive pills.

There are a number of health concerns you should be aware of in Vietnam. Among them: mosquito borne diseases like dengue fever and malaria; typhoid and hepatitis from unsanitary water or undercooked foods; and rabies. Tuberculosis is also a growing concern. And while sexually transmitted diseases (particularly HIV and AIDS) are more common in nearby Thailand, they do pose a risk in Vietnam.

No vaccinations are officially required by the Vietnamese authorities, however immunization against cholera, hepatitis, typhoid, tetanus, polio and Japanese encephalitis is advised. Please consult your doctors for further medical advice.

You should carry a basic medical kit that includes anti diarrhea tablets and re-hydration salts. Medical standards outside Hanoi and Saigon are lower than those found in western countries.

Crime in large cities is a problem. Look out for pickpockets. Drive by motorcycle purse snatchings are among the most common crimes. If your purse, bag or camera can easily be torn from your hand by someone going 15 or 20 miles per hour, chances are someone will try...

 WHAT TO PACK Vietnam is generally a casual country by western standards although people do like to dress in their Sunday best whenever the opportunity arises. Therefore simple and casual clothes are appropriate for almost any occasion.

The year round heat and humidity in the south, especially Ho Chi Minh City makes lightweight quick dry clothing the most appropriate. The north and central highlands get cool enough for sweaters or light jackets for much of the year but the northern highlands will require cold weather clothes in the winter.

If you are not participating in any trekking tours, sandals and lightweight shoes are sufficient. If trekking is included in your itinerary, you will need trekking boots.  ELECTRICITY The national electricity system is 220 volts. Connections are either a round two-pin plug or a flat two-pin plug. Beware if you are using electrical appliances and laptop computers, as there are power surges and frequent power cuts.  FOOD/CUISINE The cuisine of Vietnam is excellent. Rice and noodle dishes are the staple of Vietnamese food and are garnished with aromatic lemon grass and/or fresh coriander. Fish, chicken, and/or pork dishes along with cooked vegetables and rice form a typical meal. Asian and European food are available throughout the country.  DRINKS Drinking tap water or ice is not recommended. Bottled water is readily available but remember to check the seal for possible tampering. You should be drinking a minimum of 1.5 liters of water per day. This should increase as the temperature increases or you are engaging in physical activities.

Vietnamese coffee is usually very strong and has a punctuated mockup aroma and flavors. It is usually served in a small glass or cup with a drip filter and additional hot water in a thermos. As the filter empties you top it up from the thermos until you have the required amount of coffee. Condensed milk is added as a whitener and sweetener as it is usually not possible to find fresh milk away for the main cities.

Beer is available just about everywhere. Most places stock a selection of local and some imported brands.

Draught beer comes in two varieties, Beer Hoi or Beer Tuoi. Beer Hoi is draught beer found on the street stalls and poured straight from the keg. Vietnamese quite often add ice to their beer when drinking. Beer Tuoi is found in the bars and restaurants and is chilled and served under pressure from the keg in a more conventional method.

 FILMS It is possible to purchase most basic film requirements throughout Vietnam including Fuji , Kodak and Konica 100, 200 & 400 ISO films and some professional standard in Hanoi , Ho Chi Min city and Danang. Slide and APS films are also available in most places, however for more specialized films you would be better to bring a supply with you.

If you buy film in Vietnam check where it has been displayed in the shop (away from heat sources) and the expiry date before purchasing. Lithium batteries are easy to purchase in Hanoi . If your batteries are getting low you would be better to carry a spare with you though.

 TRADING HOURS Government offices and banks are open Monday through Friday. The banks close at 3:30 p.m. If you need to visit a government office do not do it during lunch periods. These usually last 1 to 2 hours. Post offices are open 7 days a week.

Most shops will be open until around 9 p.m. Snacks and bars will close around midnight however there a few new nightclubs in Hanoi and Saigon that stay open into the wee hours.

CAMBODIA  VISAS A 30 day visa can be obtained on arrival. Tourists pay $20 while a business entry costs $25. A visa on arrival can be obtained at Phnom Penh’s Pochentong International Airport, Siem Reap Airport and at

international border gates. Visas can also be obtained at Royal Cambodian Embassies or Consulates in foreign countries. Cambodians living overseas are entitled to a free (K) visa. Visas can be extended at the Immigration Department in Phnom Penh.  HEALTH No vaccinations are officially required, however immunization against cholera, hepatitis, typhoid, tetanus, polio and Japanese encephalitis is advised. Please consult your doctors for further medical advice.  TIME ZONE UTC + 7  CURRENCY The Riel (KHR). Foreign currencies can easily be changed at hotels, airports, markets and banks.

As of 30 October, 2012: 1 USD = 4,040 Riel (KHR).

LAOS  VISAS Passport should be valid for six months after you planned date of departure from the country. Visa valid for 30 days can be easily obtained on arrival. Cost depends on nationality (approx. 30 US$-42 US$). One passport-sized photo is also required.

 HEALTH No vaccinations are officially required, however immunization against cholera, hepatitis, typhoid, tetanus, polio and Japanese encephalitis is advised. Please consult your doctors for further medical advice.  TIME ZONE UTC + 7  CURRENCY Lao Kip (LAK); US Dollars and Thai Bath are widely accepted in the main cities. The Lao Kip. Foreign currencies can easily be changed at hotels, airports, markets and banks.

As of 30 October, 2012: 1 USD = 8,002.5 Kip (LAK).

THAILAND  VISAS Tourists from many countries (including the US, UK, Germany, France and Singapore) do not require a visa when entering Thailand and can stay for a duration of 30-days. In many of these countries (including the US, UK, Australia, Germany, France and Singapore) you can apply for a 60-day tourist visa before

you leave. If you hold a Brazilian, Peruvian or South Korean passport, you are exempted from visa requirements and are permitted to enter and stay in Thailand for a period of not exceeding 90 days.

Citizens of some other countries are required to apply for a 15-day visa at immigration checkpoints on arrival, while others must apply for one before they leave. It all depends on the particular visa arrangement Thailand has with your home country. The best way to find out is to check with either the Thai Immigration Bureau or the Thai Embassy or Consulate in your home country.

Coming to Thailand for business is a whole different story. Check out the Legalities section of our Business Essentials Guide for information about the visas necessary for those looking to work or gain employment here.  HEALTH No vaccinations are officially required, however immunization against cholera, hepatitis, typhoid, tetanus, polio and Japanese encephalitis is advised. Please consult your doctors for further medical advice.

Mosquito bites are annoying enough in themselves, but on top of that, some tropical diseases are insect borne, so applying mosquito repellent after sunset is a must. Gastro enteric problems are among the most common ailments visitors to Thailand complain about. These are generally the result of consuming contaminated food or water, so be careful about where and what you eat.

A funny stomach can also be related to the change of climate. Remember, Thailand is a tropical country and the extreme heat and humidity can affect your overall well-being. In order to avoid dehydration, make sure you drink plenty of water. You'll see that the locals love their drinks with ice, even beer! But you might want to avoid ice cubes or crushed ice, due to possible contamination, and stick with bottled drinks, which are available in most places. Alternatively carry your own.

You'll also find that there is an abundance of food at all times both at day and night. If you eat at any of the roadside stalls, check that your food is freshly prepared in front of you, and you hopefully won't have any problems.  TIME ZONE UTC + 7  CURRENCY The basic unit of Thai currency is the Baht (THB). As of 30 October, 2012: 1 USD = 30.75 Baht (THB).

MYANMAR

 VISAS A passport with a valid entry visa is required for all visitors entering Myanmar. Visas can be obtained at any Burmese Embassy or Consulate abroad. HG Travel can arrange a Visa Approval Letter if given at least 20 working days notice prior to the expected arrival date.  HEALTH No vaccinations are officially required, however immunization against cholera, hepatitis, typhoid, tetanus, polio and Japanese encephalitis is advised. Please consult your doctors for further medical advice.  TIME ZONE UTC + 6.5  CURRENCY The local currency in Myanmar is the Kyat (MMK). US Dollars are accepted in most hotels and restaurants, although it is recommend to carry Kyat for other purchases and tipping. Moneychangers can be found in most popular tourist destinations. As of 29 October, 2012: 1 USD = 850 Kyat (MMK).

TERMS AND CONDITIONS For the aim of having the perfect cooperation between two parties, we would like to inform you our Terms and Conditions as follows:

1. BOOKINGS: All bookings are made through HGH Travel Company – Head Office in Hue City.

2. DEPOSIT AND PAYMENT: A deposit of 30% of the tour price per person plus bank charges (credit card/bank transfer processing fees) is required upon confirmation of your booking (If this amount is less than $100, a $100 per person deposit will apply). Once a deposit is received, it is understood that you have read, understood and accepted all our Terms and Conditions. The remaining balance of 70% of the tour price is requested to settle by bank transfer 15 days before the arrival date. The remaining balance of 70% of the tour price is requested to settle by bank transfer 15 days before the arrival date.

3. CANCELLATION: In case of cancellation, cancellation fees will be charged accordingly to the day that official notice in writing is received at our Hue office: Address:

Website: Email: Tel: Fax :

HGH Travel 18 Duong Van An Hue, Vietnam www.hghtravel.com sales@hghue.com + 84 54 3 932 789 + 84 54 3 932 777

The date of the postmark, fax reception or email will be retained for the cancellation. It will result in the perception of the following charges: For FIT (below 5 rooms or below 10 passengers):  16 to 30 days before arrival date: No charge  11 to 15 days before arrival date: 10% of tour price  7 to 10 days before arrival date: 20% of tour price  2 to 7 days before arrival date: 50% of tour price  No show: 100% of tour price For GIT (above 5 rooms or above 10 passgers):  31 to 45 days before arrival date: No charge  26 to 30 days before arrival date: 10% of tour price  16 to 25 days before arrival date: 20% of tour price  8 to 15 days before arrival date: 50% of tour price  4 to 7 days before arrival date: 85% of tour price



No show:

100% of tour price

Any cancellation due to irresistible reasons such as wars, strikes, earthquakes, etc will be subject to no charge.

4. RESPONSIBILITY: HGH Travel will commit all the services as confirmed and stated in tour confirmation. However, we are not reliable for any injury, loss or damage the travelers suffers during their journey due to circumstances beyond HGH Travel‘s control.

Once we send out tour confirmation, we send all full information on places and destinations. We will not hold any responsibility due to the fact that these destinations change apparences due to any irresistible reasons. In this case, we will arrange the visit to alternative with similar costs.

5. VISA ARRANGEMENT If HGH Travel agrees to arrange visas and/or similar documents, we shall act on behalf of our clients. Any risks due to the refusal of the respective government to issue such documents shall be born by the organizer alone.