Combine the history of Hanoi with the natural landscape of Sapa and the vast awesomeness of World Heritage protected Ha Long Bay. Each destination on this itinerary brings its own story, beauty, and a peacefulness that leave you in no doubt that you are immersed in the wonder of Vietnam.
Upon arrival at the airport you’ll be escorted by car to your accommodation in Hanoi.
The remainder of your day will be spent at leisure.
Start your trip with an early morning visit to Hoan Kiem Lake where you’ll see the locals go through their morning tai chi and aerobics routines, and visit the Ngoc Son Temple.
Continue with a walking tour of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, visiting St Joseph Cathedral, Hoa Lo Prison and Huu Tiep Lake, where the wreckage of a US B-52 bomber can be seen.
After lunch, visit the picturesque Temple of Literature, then stop for an afternoon beer with the locals. In the evening, you’ll board the Victoria Express train for the overnight journey to Lao Cai. in your private sleeper cabin.
You’ll arrive in Sapa in the early morning and check into your lodge on a quiet hilltop in the Sapa Valley.
After lunch, head out to explore on a guided walk through Sapa’s gardens, rice paddies, forests and mountain villages, home to ethnic hill-tribes.
This morning you’ll venture off the beaten track to explore the Hoang Lien National Park. You’ll hike through valleys next to mountains and waterfalls, and weave through local villages where you’ll see farmers working their land.
After lunch, you’ll explore the village and watch arts and crafts demonstrations. You’ll also have the chance to swim in the river before returning to the Victoria Express Train for your overnight journey back to Hanoi.
Once back in Hanoi, you have the opportunity to pop back to your hotel to refresh before being driven to Ha Long Bay, where you’ll board your cruise ship to sail around the UNESCO-listed natural wonder.
Explore Surprise Cave by bamboo boat or kayak, indulge in a spa treatment, or enjoy on-board activities such as fruit carving, masterchef competitions or tea ceremonies.
Start your morning with a sunrise tai chi session on the deck of the ship, before continuing around the bay. There will be plenty of opportunities to head off the boat to explore, including kayaking excursions and cycling trips.
Back on board, enjoy drinks, a barbeque buffet, watch movies or stargaze.
Enjoy another gentle start to the day with tai chi as your boat makes its way slowly back to port, stopping to explore the Cua Van floating village.
Indulge in a Vietnamese tea ceremony before disembarking and returning to Hanoi to catch your onward flight.
Enjoy an early morning visit to Hoan Kiem Lake and the Ngoc Son Temple
Return to the golden age of travel with an overnight trip on the Victoria Express Train
Explore the dramatic scenery and ethnic hill-tribe villages of Sapa
Cruise around the emerald waters, towering limestone pillars and tiny forest-topped islets of Ha Long Bay
Start your day with sunrise tai chi on the sundeck of your boat
AUTHENTICITYWe won't take you to the usual tourist traps, instead we'll introduce you to people that show you the true side of a country. With our contacts in each destination, we can arrange for you to meet locals away from the crowds and ensure an authentic experience.
EXPERTISEYou can rely on our extensive first-hand knowledge and years of experience in the country you’re visiting. We use only the best expert guides, and provide insider tips on the local customs, and everything from vibrant festivals to hidden Himalayan monasteries
PERSONAL SERVICEYour vacation will be as unique as you are. By getting to know you and what makes you tick, we fuse our wealth of expertise and a deep understanding of our destinations to create unique day by day itineraries that are built around you.
