Day By Day Experience

• DAY 1 - Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

  Arrive in Ho Chi Minh, where you will be greeted with warm Vietnamese hospitality and transferred to your comfortable hotel. In the evening, gather for a Welcome Dinner featuring delectable local cuisine and an orientation session led by your knowledgeable tour leader. This will be an excellent opportunity to get acquainted with your fellow travelers and the adventures that lie ahead. Relax and settle in, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of Ho Chi Minh bustling capital.Overnight in Vietnam D

• DAY 2 - Ho Chi Minh City

  Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City, affectionately known as Saigon, where modernity meets tradition in a bustling metropolis of 8 million people. As Vietnams most westernized city, Saigon offers a vibrant blend of elegant international hotels, exclusive restaurants, and trendy bars alongside bustling roadside noodle stalls and the energetic hustle of cyclo drivers. Begin your adventure with a scenic drive through the city, admiring the redbrick beauty of Notre Dame Cathedral and the 19thcentury charm of the Post Office. Marvel at the grandeur of the Hotel de Ville City Hall and the iconic Reunification Palace, a symbol of Vietnams history where the wars end was marked by a Viet Cong tank crashing through its gates on April 30, 1975. Enjoy a delightful lunch at Hoa Tuc Restaurant before visiting the enchanting Jade Emperor Pagoda, adorned with intricate carvings depicting Taoist and Buddhist legends. Delve into Vietnams rich heritage at the Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine, showcasing artifacts dating back to the Stone Age. Alternatively, explore the Army Museum, History Museum, or Museum of Fine Arts based on your interests. Next, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Cholon, Saigons bustling Chinatown, with a visit to Thien Hau Temple. Discover the unique Cao Dai Temple, where followers of this eclectic religion gather for daily worship. Conclude your day with a sumptuous welcome dinner at Xu Restaurant, where you can savor the flavors of Vietnam in a chic setting. Experience the dynamic contrasts and captivating charm of Saigon, a city that seamlessly weaves together its colonial past and vibrant present. B, L, D

• DAY 3 - Ho Chi Minh City

  Start your morning by exploring a different side of Ho Chi Minh City. Venture south across the Khanh Hoi Bridge to District 4, a vibrant neighborhood where daily life thrives amidst bustling streets. Begin your journey on Ton Dan Street, the heart of a lively street market. This is the authentic Saigon, where tourists are rare, and friendly banter with locals is a delightful part of the experience. Stroll through the bustling thoroughfares and arrive at Xom Chieu Church, a stunning Spanishstyle church with an intriguing cemetery. Next, visit Xom Chieu, the districts central marketplace, and immerse yourself in the local hustle and bustle. Take a moment to enjoy a refreshing Vietnamese coffee at a local caf. Return to central Saigon and wander down Le Cong Kieu, also known as Antiques Street. Discover carved wooden chests, opium pipes, and abacuses among the mix of authentic antiques and fascinating replicas. After a delightful lunch at Ly Club Restaurant, enjoy the rest of your day at leisure. If you wish, GeoEx can arrange visits to museums, galleries, artisans, temples, and other captivating sights. B,L,D

• DAY 4 - Mekong Delta

  Begin your day with an unforgettable adventure through the Mekong Delta. A scenic twohour journey from Ho Chi Minh City brings you to the charming town of Cai Lay. Board a small, motorized boat and glide along the tributaries of the majestic Mekong River, where youll witness the vibrant daily lives of the locals. Disembark at Cam Son Bridge and embark on a leisurely bicycle ride along narrow village roads, winding over tiny canals and past lush fruit gardens and tranquil villages. The sevenkilometer ride offers a perfect pace to soak in the serene surroundings. Prefer a more relaxed journey Opt for a ride on a xe loi, a traditional local vehicle. Along the way, youll visit small factories, fish farms, and other local businesses, gaining insights into the regions thriving economy. Arrive at a picturesque orchard brimming with tropical fruits. Depending on the season, savor the fresh, sunripened fruits picked straight from the trees. The friendly orchard owner will guide you through his verdant garden, sharing stories and insights. Continue your journey via sampan, a traditional flatbottomed wooden boat, to a local home where youll be treated to a delicious, homecooked Vietnamese lunch. Savor the authentic flavors and warm hospitality. After lunch, travel to Can Tho, a bustling city in the heart of the Mekong Delta, with a visit to the serene Khmer Pagoda along the way. Upon checking into your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to explore or relax at your leisure. Experience the magic of the Mekong Delta, where every moment is a vibrant tapestry of life, culture, and nature. B,L,D

• DAY 5 - Cai Rang, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hoi An

  Start your day with breakfast aboard the elegant Mekong Princess as you glide through the vibrant Cai Rang floating market. Witness a bustling scene of boats laden with fresh fruits, vegetables, and a variety of goods, as locals engage in lively trade. Navigate narrow tributaries to explore a noodle factory and an orchard, where you can sample the seasons freshest fruits. After returning to your hotel, embark on your journey back to Ho Chi Minh City. Enjoy a delightful lunch at the Mekong Rest Stop Restaurant before continuing to the airport for your flight to Danang. Upon arrival, a scenic drive takes you to your centrally located hotel in the charming town of Hoi An. The evening is yours to explore or relax at your leisure, savoring the magic of Hoi An. B,L,D

• DAY 6 - Hoi An

  Step into Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, once a bustling port known as Faifo to early Western traders. From the 17th to 19th centuries, this charming town welcomed Chinese, Japanese, French, English, Spanish, Portuguese, and other traders, who left behind a rich tapestry of cultural influences. Wander through its old wooden houses, bridges, and temples, preserved in time due to its isolated, siltladen river and destroyed rail lines. Your walking tour begins at the local museum, adjacent to the historic Quan Ong Temple. Stroll down Tran Phu Street to the Fukien Chinese Assembly Hall, a stunning 17thcentury merchants house, and the Cantonese Assembly Hall. Discover the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, shrouded in mystery, before visiting an art emporium housed in another historic merchants home. After lunch, visit a craftsmans home to learn about the traditional art of silk lantern making. Get handson and create your own lantern to take home as a cherished memory. The afternoon is yours to explore Hoi Ans vibrant shopping scene. Find exquisite paintings, silk fabrics, ceramics, Chinese lanterns, lacquerware, and tailormade clothing in this shoppers paradise. Hoi An promises a day of cultural immersion, artistic exploration, and delightful discoveries, leaving you enchanted by its timeless beauty. B,L,D

• DAY 7 - Hue

  Begin your day with a scenic drive over the breathtaking Pass of the Clouds, en route to the historic city of Hue. Your first stop is the Cham Museum, a treasure trove of magnificent Cham sculptures dating back to the second century. Delve into the rich history of the Cham people, whose art and architecture reflect profound Hindu, Buddhist, and Khmer influences. Continuing your journey, youll arrive in Hue, Vietnams intellectual and cultural capital. Once the heart of the Nguyen dynasty, Hue boasts an Imperial City filled with citadels, palaces, tombs, and temples set against the serene backdrop of the Perfume River. Despite the passage of time and conflicts, Hue has preserved its royal elegance and unique tranquility, with French colonial villas and quiet riverbanks that invite peaceful reflection. Savor a delightful lunch at Les Jardins de la Carambole Restaurant before embarking on a tour of the Imperial Citadel. Modeled after Beijings Forbidden City, this grand complex features three walled enclosures, including the iconic Tu Cam Thanh Forbidden City, the Emperors private quarters. Witness the impressive 121foot flag tower, a historic symbol of resilience and pride. In the afternoon, visit a historic Hue residence, the former home of a princess and daughter of Emperor Dong Khanh. Meet the present owner, Mr. Phan Thuan An, or his daughter, who will share fascinating insights into Hues culture and history, illustrated by rare historical photographs. Conclude your day with an intimate dinner at Tha Om, a hidden garden restaurant in Kim Long village. Enjoy the serene ambiance and exquisite cuisine, a perfect end to your immersive journey through Hues rich heritage. B,L,D

• DAY 8 - Hue

  Embark on a journey to the stunning tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, renowned for its symmetrical layout along a central axis. This serene site features tiered terraces, tranquil lotus ponds, elegant pavilions, and beautifully painted bridges, all nestled among groves of pine, red azaleas, and white and pink frangipani trees. Continue your adventure at Tu Hieu Pagoda, a peaceful haven surrounded by lush vegetation in a charming countryside hamlet. If youre fortunate, you may witness the midmorning chanting of resident monks at this esteemed center of Buddhist learning and meditation. The pagodas surroundings also include the ancient graves of many of the Imperial Courts Eunuch Mandarins. After a delightful lunch at Pilgrimage Village, visit the regal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, who reigned from 1847 to 1883, the longest of any Nguyen emperor. This tomb is majestically set among groves of frangipani and pine trees. Its massive commemorative stele resides in an arched pavilion supported by ochrecolored columns adorned with blue relief carvings. Interestingly, Tu Ducs sepulcher does not contain his remains fearing desecration, he had his body secretly buried, and all 200 workers involved in the burial were executed to keep the location a secret. To this day, his resting place remains undiscovered. Next, explore the riverside village of Thuy Bieu on foot or by bicycle. Engage with the friendly locals and observe their daily lives. Discover local crafts, such as homemade incense and rice wine, and experience a traditional herbal foot soak, a therapeutic practice passed down through generations. Conclude your day with a serene 30minute boat trip on the Perfume River back to Hue. Enjoy dinner and a leisurely evening, reflecting on the rich history and vibrant culture youve experienced. B,L,D

• DAY 9 - Hanoi

  Fly to Hanoi, the charming capital of Vietnam, where the echoes of provincial France linger in the treelined boulevards and greenshuttered villas. Your stay in the elegant French Quarter places you amidst architectural gems from the colonial era. Upon arrival, delve into the rich tapestry of Vietnams cultural heritage at the awardwinning Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. Here, the diverse traditions of the countrys 54 ethnic groups, particularly those from the far north, are beautifully showcased. Next, explore the enchanting Old Quarter, dating back to the 13th century. Begin with a leisurely cyclo ride through the bustling streets, known as the 36 streets after the ancient guilds that once thrived here. Wander on foot past the street of gravestones, visit the historic Bach Ma Pagoda, and stroll down Counterfeit Street, where fake money is sold for temple offerings. Discover the vibrant life of blacksmiths, herbalists, tin makers, and shops selling Buddha statues and altars. Conclude your tour at the majestic St. Josephs Cathedral on Nan Tho Street, a lively area brimming with boutiques, bars, cafs, and restaurants. Experience the perfect blend of history, culture, and modern charm in Hanoi. B,L,D

• DAY 10 - Hanoi

  This morning, embark on a journey to Ho Chi Minhs Mausoleum, a striking Sovietinspired tomb. Wander past the grand Presidential Palace, once the residence of the French governor of Indochina, and step into the humble Stilt House where Ho Chi Minh spent his last decade. Marvel at the One Pillar Pagoda, a symbol of resilience, rebuilt by the Vietnamese after its destruction in 1954. Hanois street food is a feast for the senses and a highlight of the city. For lunch, dive into the bustling markets and cozy cafes, savoring a variety of local delicacies while immersing yourself in Northern Vietnams vibrant culture. Continue your exploration through Hanois treelined streets, adorned with elegant French colonial architecture. Pass by the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, steeped in legend and a beloved gathering spot for locals. Visit the historic Temple of Literature, founded in 1070 and home to Vietnams first university. This beautiful complex, dedicated to Confucius, features traditional Vietnamese architecture, five walled courtyards, and a pavilion with 82 stelae that commemorate successful Mandarin scholars. The stelae rest on the backs of giant turtles, symbols of longevity, alongside redlacquered temples adorned with cranes. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon, and enjoy dinner at your leisure at one of Hanois many excellent restaurants, capping off a day filled with history, culture, and culinary delights. B,L,D

• DAY 11 - Departure

  Your unforgettable journey comes to an end as you transfer to Hanoi International Airport for your departure. Take with you cherished memories of Vietnams rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. B