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V i e t n a m t o u r i s m - H a n o i

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TourCAtalogue

2 3V i e t nam tou r i sm -Hano i

Address: 3rd floor – Kinh Do Building

Hotline: (84-24) 3826 9126E-mail: [email protected]: www.vn-tourism.com

Address: Emmapark 14, 2595 ET

Hotline: +31 (0) 85 208 50 40E-mail: [email protected]: www.vn-tourism.com

93 Lo Duc Str. – Hai Ba Trung Dist. Hanoi - Viet Nam.

The Hague, The Netherlands

VIETNAM OFFICE

NETHERLANDS OFFICE


A trusted, well-established brand: Being Vietnam’s pioneer in tourism industry with more than 60 years of experi-ences, we are proud to be recognized as Vietnam’s Top Travel Company for a record 19 consecutive years. Savvy yet adaptive, the experiences we bring far exceed various achievements and awards.

Quality service, efficiency and friendliness: We strive to be your partner in travel, truly understanding the needs and with of our clients in order to provide the best possible service.

Vietnam Timeless

Vietnam Family vacation

Vietnam Adventure

Truly Indochina

Optional tours

In the North

Explore Mai Chau & Pu Luong in 3 days

Cycling Northeast Vietnam 3D2N

Cycling Cat Ba Island 3D2N

In the Center

Explore Cu Lao Cham

Explore Thuy Bieu & Tam Giang

In the South

Con Dao + Beach extension in Vung Tau

Optional tour: Aqua Mekong

Cambodia

Laos

Myanmar

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60Sustainable tourism: As long-time tourism experts, our primary mission, in addition to meeting and surpassing the needs of our clients, is to protect the environment, and promote socially-responsible and sustainable tourism.

Reasonable pricing: Working with an extensive network of quality, reliable service providers, we are able to provide you with the best possible service to meet your needs, at the best possible price.

Diverse set of tailor-made products: simply let us know any special requests and we will custom-design memora-ble, worry-free itineraries just for you.

Our reliable and fun-loving team of professionals: Our team of travel advisors and tour guides are here to ensure you have a safe, fun trip of a lifetime!

whYChOOSEUS

Content

DESIGN BY : TRUONG THI MINH NGOC


A definite must for people who want to explore Vietnam to the fullest.All must-go destination and cities from the Old

Quarters of Hanoi, passing the World Heritage of Hue and Hoi An to the exciting and colorful floating markets of Mekong Delta. There’s never a dull moment.Explore the hill tribes of Sapa: far north of Vietnam, where the exciting ethnic markets are truly unforgettable.Immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture and visit famous historical sites such as thousand year old temples and pagodas all across the country.Cruise through the stunning and picturesque Halong Bay and find out for yourself why it’s one of the World Natural Heritage.

ViEtNam TiMeless

Day 2: Hanoi Have a full day tour of Hanoi. Visit Ho Chi Minh Presidential Palace, Tran Quoc Pagoda, Temple of Literature, "Hoa Lo" historical prison, Hoan Kiem lake and silk town. Enjoy the water puppet show - a unique traditional Vietnamese art or four palaces - a thousand years of cere-monial performances of Vietnam.

Our friendly tour guide and helpful driver will greet you at Noi Bai International airport then transfer to hotel. Take part in the enjoyable cyclo tour around the Old Quarters of Hanoi.

Day 3: Hanoi to Sapa

Day 4: The local area

Departure from Hanoi to Sapa. Turned into a small paved road lead-ing to Ta Phin village of the Black H'mong and Red Dao, the two largest ethnic groups in the area.

Walking through the rice paddy terraces, crossing the river and follow-ing a trail on the hillside going up to the ethic villages. Experiencing the villagers’ daily life and seeing the local school.

Day 1: Arrive Hanoi


Day 5: Vibrant Sapa ethnic markets

Day 6: Getting to Halong Day 7: Hue arrival

Today is the day for ethnic markets which are always the colorful places for the hilltribes of Vietnam. Due to scattering locations, various tribes organize their markets at different days of a week.

Transfer back to Hanoi for overnight.

• Coc Ly market (Tuesday)• Xin Cheng, Cao Son markets (Wednesday)• Lung Khau Nhin market (Thursday)

• Can Cau market (Saturday)• Bac Ha, Muong Hum market (Sunday)

Leave Hanoi for Halong Bay. Arrival and embark on our de-luxe junk for a 2D1N cruising tour around picturesque the World Natural Heritage.

Your early morning starts with Tai chi course on sundeck. Then continue cruising until disembark the junk and transfer back to Hanoi for flight with Hue destination.

Day 8: Quintessence of Hue

Day 10: Feel Hoi An lanes

Exploring Hue – the World Cultural Heritage, the for-mer capital of Vietnam from 1802-1945. Visit Imperi-al City and the Forbidden Purple City, Emperor Tu Duc tomb, incense making village. Boat on the Perfume river to visit Thien Mu pagoda.

Have a walking tour along Hoian’s narrow but peaceful streets to visit the Congregation Hall, the 400 year old Japanese covered bridge, Old House and Mat villages.

Day 9: Hue - Hoi An

Driven down the coast road passing over the spectacular sea to Da Nang – the biggest port in central Vietnam. Stop at Cham Museum and stone carving village at the foothill of Marble Mountain.


Day 11: Da nang – Ho Chi Minh – Cu Chi

Day 13: Cai Rang floating market

Day 14: Departure

Day 12: Ho Chi Minh – Ben Tre – Can Tho

Morning flight towards Ho Chi Minh – the largest city in Viet-nam. Drive to the outskirts to get to Cu Chi underground tun-nels. Sightseeing tour includes Reunification Hall, Ben Thanh market, Post Office, Notre Dame, Thien Hau pagoda, China Town and War Remnant Museum.

Boat trip on Mekong river to get to Cai Rang floating market – the biggest wholesale one in Mekong Delta with its famous long poles above the boats. Cruise along the small creeks to reach refreshing fruit gardens. Back to Ho Chi Minh City.

Free until transfering to airport for departure flight. End of services.

Drive to Mekong Delta where water and earth are inter-placed. Explore the daily life of Mekong local people by bi-cycle or the typical motor cart “xe loi”. Rowing boat along creeks. Proceed to Can Tho.

Hoi An


VietnAm fAmilyvAcatioN

Day 1: Arrive Hanoi

Day 2: Full day citytour

Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital is also known as Thang Long, or “soaring dragon”. This is a city with more than 1000 years of history and also Vietnam’s cultural and political center. Let’s explore historical sites, vivid museums and urban patterns in Hanoi Old Quarter.

Morning:Pick up at Noi Bai International Airport.Transfer to Hanoi center. Early check-in if guests book in ad-vance or keep luggage there till official check-in time.

Afternoon:Bring guests to city and enjoy first hand experiences of Hanoi: take a walk to visit the center of Hoan Kiem: Hoan Kiem lake, Ngoc Son temple, Hanoi old quarter ...Enjoy 1 hour of cyclo ride in Old Quarter.Guests staying at the hotel.

From 1000 year history capital, vast mountain ranges in the north to peaceful central Vietnam and generous vibe of Me-kong Delta, a journey in Vietnam will be an unforgettable

experience for family members.

Fascinating museums, hybrid architecture and a history stretching over 1000 years, Hanoi is a city with a bit for ev-eryone.

Morning: Enjoy breakfast in your hotel before exploring Ho Chi Minh complex, situated in Hanoi epicenter. Regarded as the most respected leader in Vietnam political history, the complex comprises of buildings and artifacts reflecting his life and political career. Visit Ho Chi Minh mausoleum, Presidental Palace and his stilt house.

Afternoon: Explore Museum of Ethnology, where quintessence of 54 ethnic groups in Vietnam are presented. Back to Old Quarter and watch water pupper show. Your stay at hotel.

*Note: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is closed in mornings & most mu-seums are closed on Monday.

Day 3: Hanoi – Lan Ha BaySituated in the South of Ha Long bay and East of Catba Island, Lanha bay appeals visitors with a system of 400 islands and islets, smooth beaches, refreshing and pristine beauty. Covering an area of 7000 hectar, it is not only famous for authentic ambience but also poetic strands of beaches. From your hotel, depart to Hai Phong via its new ferry to reach our main overnight boat, a well chosen one in this promising area.

Boating, kayak and swim in pristine Lan Ha bay before having dinner and overnight in Lan ha bay.


Day 4: Lan Ha bay – Ninh Binh

Day 5: Ninh Binh – Pu Luong

Explore the peacefulness and adventures in this bay. Even though lesser known than Ha Long bay, Lan Ha bay gets the attention it deserves thanks to striking geographical karst fea-tures that we can embrace while boating in this area.

Have lunch on our boat before departing to Ninh Binh, a land known for nickname “Ha Long bay on land”. Overnight in a hotel here.

Known as the old capital of Vietnam, Ninh Binh is striking with majestic system of limestone mountains, peaceful coun-tryside landscape, historical Hoa Lu temples and poetic Trang An complex. Visit Hoa Lu historical site with Dinh, Le temples that date back to Vietnam's old kingdom from late 10th century till 11th century. Appreciate intricate designs and historical vibe in this land. Move to Pu Luong and enjpy green landscape along the way before reaching a lodge in this nature reserve. Overnight in a lodge in Pu Luong.

Day 6: Pu Luong Trekking

Day 7: Pu Luong – Ha Noi /Da Nang – Hoi An

Pu Luong nature reserve is an ideal spot for wildlife lovers. Established in 1999 with an area of 17.000 hectars, the area is impressive with 598 types of animal species as well as fauna and flora, many of which are endangered. Its wide-open space and poetic rice terraces are also refreshing sites to marvel.

Morning: Full day trekking towards Muong Kho village. Picnic lunch on grassland nearby. Late afternoon: Explore Pu Luong by kayaking or bamboo rafting.

Morning: Bring guests to Hanoi and have straight to Noi Bai airport for a flight to Da Nang (late afternoon flight). The car continues to bring guests to Hoi An.Dinner and overnight in Hoi An.


Day 8: Quintessence of Hoi An

Day 9: Hoi An free and easy

Day 10: Flight to Ho Chi Minh City

Situated in the futher end of Thu Bon river, 30km Southward of Da Nang, Hoi An is well known as a peaceful town with all elements of river, sea and ancient architecture. Used to be a bustling trade town in South East Asia during 17th and 18th century, Hoi An still remains its historical and architectural relics, as well as distinctive gastronomy culture. Ready to get to the heart of this city by attending cooking class in Ms. Vy’s restaurant then checking out prominent sites in this area in the afternoon. (Fujian club house, Tan Ky Old house, Temple Bridge, ceramic museum. Enjoy a walk along Thu Bon river and Bach Dang street).

Overnight in Hoi An.

Free to swim on beaches or explore Hoi An in your own way.

Ho Chi Minh city, also called “Saigon”, is the biggest city of all 64 provinces in Vietnam. Used to be called “the pearl of the far East” in French colonial time, currently Ho Chi Minh city is not only charming but also notable with modern and bustling atmosphere. From Da Nang airport, take a flight to Ho Chi Minh city and enjoy Southern cuisine in a local restaurant. Spend the afternoon checking out the best attractions this city has to offer: center with post office, Cathedral, Independence Palace, War remnant Museum, Cho Lon market, Thien Hau temple.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city.

Day 11: Adventure in Ben Tre coconut land

Day 12: Flight back.

Situated in the South of Vietnam, Mekong Delta is notable for its distinctive culture. Comprised of 1 big city and 12 provinces, Mekong Delta stretches along an area of 40,000 km2 with 18 million inhabitants. Enriched by alluvial soil from Mekong river, this area is triking with a great biodiversity system, floating markets and folk culture being born from this unique environment.

Option 1: Visit Ben Tre, also known as “the vast land of coconut”. Explore its temples, islets, handicraft places, fruit gardens and end the trip with a boat ride along iconic Mekong small canals before going back to Ho Chi Minh city.

Option 2: Cycle along rice paddy fields and lanes of coconut gardens. Enjoy local specialties at lunch while listening to traditional music of Mekong Delta. End with a boat ride along iconic small canals before going back to Ho Chi Minh city.

Freely explore Ho Chi Minh city. Dinner and overnight there.

Free time by yourself before taking a flight back to your country.

*Note: hotel check-out time is before 12h00.

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With a latitude stretching nearly 2000km, Vietnam is a country with diverse to-pography. From fresh green fields in

two main deltas, challenging mountain ranges to cities of different vibe, a visit in less than 2 weeks to this tropical country in South East Asia will be a vibrant party of emotions for anyone keen on adventure.

Day 1: Hanoi arrivalHanoi, Vietnam’s capital is also known as Thang Long, or “soaring dragon”. This is a city with more than 1000 years of history and also Vietnam’s cultural and political center. Let’s explore historical sites, vivid museums and urban patterns in Hanoi Old Quarter.

Morning: Pick up at Noi Bai International Airport.Transfer to Hanoi center. Early check-in if guests book in advance or keep luggage there till official check-in time. Guests have lunch at their own choice and expense.

VietnAmAdventure Tour

Afternoon: Bring guests to city and enjoy first hand experiences of Hanoi: take a walk to visit the center of Hoan Kiem: Hoan Kiem lake, Ngoc Son temple, Hanoi old quarter ... Enjoy 1 hour of cyclo ride in Old Quarter.

Day 2: Full day citytourFascinating museums, hybrid architecture and a history stretching over 1000 years, Hanoi is a city with a bit for everyone.

Morning: Enjoy breakfast in your hotel before exploring Ho Chi Minh complex, situated in Hanoi epicenter. Regarded as the most respected leader in Vietnam political history, the complex comprises of buildings and artifacts reflecting his life and political career. Visit Ho Chi Minh mausoleum, Presidental Palace and his stilt house. Explore Temple of Literature, the first university and a symbol of education in Vietnam before having lunch in a local restaurant.

Afternoon: Visit Museum of Ethnology, where quintessence of 54 ethnic groups in Vietnam are presented. Back to Old Quarter and watch water pupper show.

*Note: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is closed in mornings & most museums are closed on Monday.

V i e t nam tou r i sm -Hano i


Day 3: Majestic Ha Long bay

Day 4: Ninh Binh the ancient land

Being recognized twice by UNESCO as a world heri-tage with different criteria, Ha Long bay is a destination not to be missed when visiting this S-shaped country. Experience a peaceful night on a boat, try kayaking or cave exploring to truly feel this wonder.

Start your day with a tranquil morning with Taichi les-sons on Sundeck. Enjoy breakfast with tea and coffee on the boat. Visit a limestone cave with impressive sta-lactites and stalacmites showcasing geological value of this UNESCO heritage.

Enjoy boating and have a brunch on the boat before getting back to harbor for a ride to Ninh Binh, also known as "Ha Long bay on land".

Day 5: Towards Pu LuongMorning: Visit Hoa Lu historical site with Dinh, Le temples that date back to Vietnam's old kingdom from late 10th century till 11th century. Appreciate intricate designs and historical vibe in this land.At around 3PM, get down a boat to visit Trang An complex. Immerse in limestone landscape, zigzaging through light cave, dark cave and various forms of stalagtites and stalagmites.

Afternoon: Move to Pu Luong and overnight in Pu Luong


Day 6: Pu Luong TrekkingIf you love wild nature and trekking, Pu Luong is a great destination. Situated only a few hours from Ninh Binh, Pu Luong nature reserve was established in 1999 with an area of 17.000 hectars. The biodiversity of this area is impressive: 598 types of animals species in 130 vertebrate families, including 51 rare species (26 species of mammal, 5 species of bat, 6 species of bird, 5 species of freshwater fish, 6 species of reptile), where visitors can immerse in grand nature and enjoy lowland rice paddy fields, both familiar and exotic.

Morning: Full day trekking towards Kho Muong village, picnic lunch.

Late afternoon: Explore Pu Luong by kayaking or bamboo rafting.

Day 7: Quang Binh the wilderness land

Day 8: Tu Lan adventure

Have you ever heard of “Asia’s adventure capital”? It’s the title cave expert Howard Limbert gives to this land in Central Vietnam. Let’s depart to Dong Hoi and enjoy refreshing paths before taking a rest in Quang Binh.

Morning: Bring guests to Hanoi and go straight to Noi Bai airport for a flight to Quang Binh (late afternoon flight)Car picks up you in Dong Hoi airport and move to the area near Phong Nha – Ke Bang. Enjoy beautiful scenery before check in Chaylap Farmstay, one of the most beautiful lodges in the area.

Overnight in Chaylap Farmstay.

Being one of the most prominent caving activities in Quang Binh, Tu Lan is full of challenges and yet still relaxing, very suited to adven-turous souls in a 2D1N trip. Visit caves, swim in streams and trek in carefully inspected paths of this tropical forest complex.

Morning: Depart from Chaylap Farmstay and move to Oxalis office in Tan Hoa.Listen to briefing of the trip.

Pass by corn fields and peanut fields lasting for 2.5km to reach Rao Nan river. Trek 300m uphill before trekking 100m downhill to Hung Ton valley.

Picnic lunch in Hung Ton.


Afternoon: Pass Xoai mountain and back to Tu Lan valley (3km). Reach Tu Lan camp site, swim and explore Ken cave next to camp site. Enjoy tasty dinner prepared by our local chefs.

Day 9: Tu Lan Adventure Tu Lan – Tan Hoa – Phong Nha

Day 10: Quang Binh – Ho Chi Minh or Hanoi

Morning:• Enjoy breakfast in camp site.• Swim a short distance and immerse in cool water to reach Tu Lan cave, the biggest cave in the system. • Explore Tu Lan dry cave and be amazed by stalagtites and stalagmites isnide.• Continue to swim for 450m and walk for 500m to To Mo valley.• Lunch in To Mo valley.

Afternoon:Explore Dry cave system in To Mo before trekking back to Hung Ton valley (800m).The journey ends in Oxalis office in Tan Hoa. Swim and change your clothes before getting back to Phong Nha at around 4PM.Overnight in Dong Hoi.

Morning: Enjoy breakfast chill.Afternoon: Getting to Dong Hoi airport for a trip to HCM or Hanoi for departure flight to next destination.


Day 2: Full day citytour Day 3: Mai Chau valleySpend full day absorbing the best Hanoi has to offer with outstanding museums (Museum of ethnology), historical landmarks (Ho Chi Minh complex), unique Sinosphere architecture (Temple of Literature), spiritual sites (Tran Quoc pagoda and Quan Thanh temple) as well as enjoying water pupper show, a Vietnamese musical and folklore art showcasing some myths of this country. Lunch and dinner will be served in carefully chosen restaurants with typical local food.

After the tour, Take a rest in your hotel in Hanoi.

*Note:Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum closes every Monday +

Friday.Museum of Ethnology closes every Monday.

Well known as a poetic valley situated 160km away from Hanoi, a trip to Mai Chau is a change of scenery from urban to steepy hells then down to beautiful valley in the lowland. On the way from Hanoi, stop by a hillside local market to have a panorama view of the area. Have lunch in a local house then in the afternoon, leisurely walk or cycle. Some of Thai stilt houses with weaving traditions are along the way.

Overnight in a lodge/ homestay/ hotel.

TrulY INdochiNaIndochina” is not just a word representing part of Asian history but still used to refer to Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos, three south east Asian countries with inviting nature landscape, blended with complex and tantalizing history and architecture.

Day 1: Hanoi ArrivalHanoi, previously named as Thang Long, or “soaring dragon” is a city with more than 1000 years of history and also Vietnam’s capital. After being picked up at airport and settle in your hotel, let’s spend the afternoon exploring Hoan Kiem and Old Quarter, the cultural epicenter of Hanoi with cyclo, a unique type of transportation in the capital.


Day 4: Mai Chau Exploration

Day 5: : Ninh Binh the old kingdom

Savor breakfast and refreshing rice-paddy field view from the homestay then walk towards Hang Chieu (Afternoon Cave). With 1200 steps upwards, many old trees on two sides and a wide panorama viewpoint from the top, Hang Chieu is a satisfying spot for both sports and sightseeing.

Have lunch in a local restaurant and visit a local market in the afternoon.

Overnight in a lodge/ homestay/ hotel.

Also known as "Ha Long bay on land", Ninh Binh features majestic limestone mountains, peaceful countryside and historical relics. While traveling from Mai Chau to Ninh Binh on car, stop to have lunch in a local restaurant before visiting Trang An and Bai Dinh, a prominent Buddhism complex embracedby poetic nature Overnight in Ninh Binh.

Day 6: Majestic Ha Long bay

Day 7: Depart to Hoi An

Have breakfast in Ninh Binh then transfer to Halong bay, a site-not-to-be-missed in North Vietnam on a path surrounded by rural Ninh Binh on the side. Being recognized twice by UNESCO as a world heritage with different criteria, Ha Long bay is a destination not to be missed when visiting this S-shaped country. Experience a peaceful night on a boat, try kayaking or cave exploring to truly feel this wonder.

Overnight on the boat.

Explore the peacefulness and adventures in this bay with its striking geographical karst features that we can embrace while boating in this area.

Have a brunch on our boat before departing to Hanoi airport.

Ready to venture central Vietnam by taking a late afternoon flight to Da Nang. Continue to go to Hoi An from here for overnight at hotel.


Day 8: Hoi An quintessence

Day 9: Cambodia arrival

Day 10: The grandious Angkor Wat temples

Situated in the futher end of Thu Bon river, 30km Southward of Da Nang, Hoi An is well known as a peaceful town with all elements of river, sea and ancient architecture. Used to be a bustling trade town in South East Asia during 17th and 18th century, Hoi An still remains its historical and architectural rel-ics, as well as distinctive gastronomy culture. Ready to get to the heart of this city by attending cooking class in Ms. Vy’s restaurant then checking out prominent sites in this area in the afternoon. (Fujian club house, Tan Ky Old house, Temple Bridge, ceramic museum. Enjoy a walk along Thu Bon river and Bach Dang street).

Overnight in Hoi An.

Breakfast at hotel. Get to Da Nang airport and ready for an adventure towards Siem Reap of Cambodia. Along the way, check out Kok Ker temple group, also known as Pyramid of Asia. Spend time walking around this space which is sur-rounded by small jungles and big trees. Arrive in Sieam Reap and check in a hotel used for the rest of your time in this city.

Breakfast at hotel.

Visit the antique capital of Angkor Thom (12 century): the South Gate with its huge statues depicting the churning of the ocean of milk, the Bayon Temple, unique for its 54 towers

decorated with over 200 smiling faces of Avolokites-vara, the Phimeanakas, the Royal Enclosure, the El-ephants Terrace and the Terrace of the Leper King.

Visit to the most famous of all the temples on the plain of Angkor: Angkor Wat. The temple complex covers 81 hectares and is comparable in size to the Imperial Palace in Beijing. Its distinctive five towers are emblazoned on the Cambodian flag and the 12th century masterpiece is considered by art histo-rians to be the prime example of classical Khmer art and architecture. Enjoy wonderful sunset from the top of Pre Rup Temple.

Overnight in a hotel.


Day 11: Explore the best of Angkor WatBreakfast at hotel

Visit Banteay Srey, known as Citadel of Women or a Pink Temple, and Banteay Samre Temples.

Visit the unique interior brick sculptures of Prasat Kravan, Srah Srang ("The Royal Baths" was once used or ritual bathing), Banteay Kdei (surrounded by 4 concentric walls), Ta Prohm, one of the area’s most beautiful temples. Ta Prohm has been relatively untouched since it was discovered and retains much of its mystery. Neak Pean, a fountain built in the middle of a pool (representing the paradisi-acal Himalayan mountain-lake) and Preah Khan temple, Built by the King Jayavarman VII. Preah Khan is, like Ta Prohm, a place of towered enclosures and shoulder hugging corridors. Unlike Ta Prohm, however, the temple of Preah Khan is in a reasonable state of preservation and ongoing restoration efforts should maintain and even improve this situation.

Overnight in a hotel.

Day 12: Heading to Vientiane - Lao's capital

Day 13: Vientiane venture

Day 14: Poetic Luang Prabang

Day 15: Refreshing Kuang Xi falls – Departure

Travel from Siem Reap to Vientiane, Lao's capital. Aside from playing the role of the economic and political center of Laos, Vientiane is in itself a charming hub of culture. Devour yourself with charming, tree-lined boulevards and colorful markets.

Morning: Visit a few main temples such as Vat Ho Prakeo, a temple used to be the house of the Emerald Buddha. Right across the street is Wat Sisaket, where more than ten thousands of Buddha images are preserved. Continue our ride to Pratuxai (Arc the Triumph of France), where you can get a great view of the city. Our last visit will be golden stupa, also called Thuat Luang Stupa. It is believed to contain a relic of lord Buddha.

Afternoon: Visit Lao revolutionary museum. Learn about what happened during the French colonial time and during the reign of King Anou and Chao Fa Ngum. Visit Ban Nong Bouathong and the weaving village to understand the art of silk textile.

Overnight in Vientiane.

Transfer to the airport to take a flight to Luang Prabang in the morning.

Arrival in LPQ, meet a guide and transfer for city tour of LPQ.

Afternoon city tour visit former royal temples, Wat Visun where one can see the Biggest Buddha statue, Wat Xieng Thong the most beautiful temple in Luang Prabang with its mosaic decoration and the former royal carriage. Climb Mt Phousi overlooking the city of Luang Prabang for sunset on the Mekong River.

Overnight in Luangprabang.

Morning transfer to visit the beautiful Kuangsi fall and visit some hill tribe villages.

Afternoon transfer to the airport to take a departure flight.


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Day 2: Towards Pu Luong nature reserve

Day 3: Full day trekking

embrace the sight of ride paddy fields and stilt houses of Thai ethnic peole. This is also a great chance to stop by some houses where people still keep the tradition of indingo weaving. Overnight in a lodge/ homestay/ hotel.

Morning: Have breakfast then transferred by car to Pu Luong, a destination located 2 hours away. Officially recognized by FFI as a world nature reserve in 2001, Pu Luong offers a diversity of ideal land-scape for hiking and trekking experiences. Enjoy lunch in Pu Luong Retreat/ Pu Luong Home.

Afternoon:Trek for around 3 hours. Enjoy widespread viewpoint and array of rice paddy fileds nestled next to mountain ranges in this area. Overnight in Pu Luong Retreat/ Pu Luong home.

Stretch yourself in nature with a picnic lunchMorning: Have breakfast in Pu Luong Retreat/ Pu Luong Home.Start early to descend into the beautiful valley facing the Retreat where you walk around tumbling rice terraces. Trek through small paths shrouded in vegetation to slowly reveal a picturesque village sitting at the base of a towering mountain. Your camera will not be able to sit still!Continue to the base of the valley, you weave between roads and farm land, villages and wild fields, ponds and rivers, mountains and open land. Savour the ever-changing scenery as you trek to a beautiful spot to enjoy a simple picnic lunch.

Afternoon:After enjoying delicious food, get on our bus for a ride back to Hanoi.

IN THE North

Explore Mai Chau & Pu Luong in 3 days

Situated only a few hours from Ninh Binh, Pu Luong Nature Reserve is famous for diverse biodiversity with nearly 600 animal species, amidst grand nature

and lowland rice paddy fields, both familiar an exotic.

A 3 days and 2 nights tour enables travelers to explore Mai Chau and Pu Luong, verdant mountainous areas which are also known for rich tribal heritages. 135 km northwestern from Hanoi, while Mai Chau is home of 7 ethnic minority groups and ideal cycling options, Pu Luong can refresh visitors with open viewpoint and widespread rice terraces.

High Light: Day 1: From Hanoi capital to rural Mai ChauRide and chill in Mai Chau valleyMorning: Pick up in your hotel to leave for Mai Chau valley located in Hoa Binh province, a mountainous area 160km away from the hus-tle and bustle of Hanoi. Along the way, stop at chilly Thung Khe pass and immerse in a vibe of local market. Enjoy the change of scenery from urban to hills and passes as the car brings you down to Mai Chau valley.Have lunch in a Thai stilt house.

Afternoon:Have a leisurely walk or bicycle ride within Mai Chau valley,

• Stop at an authentic hillside market (Thung Khe market).• Leisuire walk/ cycle within Mai Chau valley.• Trekking in open space of Pu Luong area.


Day 3: Cycling Ninh Binh & Van Long nature reserve (20km)Morning:Have breakfast in your hotel.Unload bicycles and ready to explore the route from hotel to Ninh Binh. Different from Pu Luong, Ninh Binh has a flat terrain which makes it easier to navigate around. Enjoy landscape of limestone mountains and lush green paddy fields of the land often named as “Ha Long bay on land”.Arrive at Van Long Nature Reserve and enjoy a boat ride in this tranquil, scenic area.

Afternoon:Have lunch in a local restaurant near Van Long Nature Reserve.Continue to cycle along rice paddy fields of Ninh Binh, a sight very typical in Northern area of Vietnam before getting back on our car and get back to Hanoi.

see along the road, from impressive mountain ranges, vegetable gardens to Ma river, one of the biggest river in Northeast Vietnam. Enjoy coffee break in a local shop along the way.Continue riding and observe daily activities of local people along the way, such as children with buffalo, or lovely fruit vendors. Visit the stream of holy fishes in Cam Thuy before having a tasty lunch in a local restaurant. Get on the car and depart for Ninh Binh.Check in hotel in Ninh Binh.

CYCLIng norTh e aS TVIETNam 3D2n

Day 1: Mai Chau & Pu Luong adventure

Day 2: Ninh Binh, Ha Long Bay on land

Morning:Our tour guide will pick you upfrom hotel with bicycles from pro-fessional service providers. Get ready for a car ride from Hanoi to Mai Chau, a beautiful valley in Northwest Vietnam. Stop at Thung Khe hillside and enjoy the vibe of the small yet fascinating local market in this area. Arrive at Mai Chau & have lunch in a traditional stilt house of Thai people, the main ethnic group in this province.

Afternoon:Unload bicycles. Our tour guide will do a short briefing before we depart in a cycling journey from Mai Chau to Pu Luong. The journey lasts about 55km. This is quite a strenuous, challenging route. Surrounded by bam-boo forests and limestone mountains on two sides, cyclists can test their stamina and at the same time, enjoy refreshing nature. Along the way is a bamboo stick making factory that utilizes ma-terials in local area. Arrive at Pu Luong and check in Pu Luong Retreat. Take a proper rest after a day full of adventue.

Morning:Enjoy breakfast at Pu Luong retreat and appreciate the panorama view from this lovely accomodation. Unload our bikes and start another journey to Cam Thuy, Thanh Hoa. Different from the route from Mai Chau to Pu Luong, the route from Mai Chau to Pu Luong, the route to Cam Thuy is as refreshing as a downward rollar coaster ride. There are heaps to

Explore Northern Vietnam with airy mountain ranges, adventurous cycling routes and a diversity of ethnic groups with support of professional tour guides and sporty bicycles.

High Light:

• Challenging cycling routes with epic mountain view. • Interesting activities of ethnic groups along the way. • Peaceful vibe of Van Long nature reserve.


Day 2: Boating & explore Lan Ha bayMorning:Move to Beo pier and get on a day boat to explore Lan Ha bay. Situated in the south of Ha Long bay, Lan Ha bay shares similar geological features and topography. Enjoy bay sightseeing and challenge yourself with active kayaking activities. Have lunch on the day boat and/ or a floating restaurant. Head to Monkey Island in the afternoon. This island is well known with the most smooth and beautiful beaches in Cat Ba. Swim on the beach and try hiking up the top of Monkey Island. Back to Cat Ba Town with the sight of Cai Beo floating village along the way. Get on our van and back to Hanoi.

Afternoon: Start to cycle to Cat Ba National Park. This is a road with wide open view and fresh scenery. Continue to cycle across the island heading to Gia Luan pier. This is one of the earliest piers being used to approach Cat Ba Island. Veer your way and cycling along the famous coastline way of the island to return to Cat Ba town. Dinner in a nice restaurant in Cat Ba Town.

Day 1: Travel to Cat Ba IslandMorning:Our tour guide will pick you up from hotel with pre-arranged bicycles for the trip. Start to depart for Cat Ba, passing along Hai Phong province with Tan Vu – Lach Huyen ferry. Enjoy the view of Red river before changing to another ferry towards Cat Ba island. Enjoy the view of mangrove forests and part of Cat Ba National Park along the way. Check in your lodge and have lunch in a nice restaurant in town.

Explore Catba with vigor and style .


IN THE CENtErẺ

EXPLorECU Lao Cham

Situated not so far from Hoi An Ancient town is a peaceful destination called Cu Lao Cham (Cham Island). When UNESCO recog-nized Cu Lao Cham as a World Biosphere Reserve in 2009, it quickly became a famous destination of Central Vietnam, attracting interest from many scientists. A 2D1N trip to Cu Lao Cham and rest in a well chosen local homestay will be an unforgettable

experience.

Day 1: Depart to Cu Lao Cham

Day 2: Back to Da Nang

Morning: Meet each other and get to Cua Dai, ready for an adventure in Cu Lao Cham. Known as a world biosphere, this island is home to a fascinating marine conservation center as well as other attractions covering both spiritual areas and daily vibe. Spend time exploring Hai Tang pagoda, Au boat, Tan Hiep market and residental area. Get on boat to observe the colorful system in Bai Xep before enjoying lunch with tasty seafood in a local restaurant.

Afternoon: Free to swim, sun bathe, walk or trek up to a hill in the area for a panorama viewpoint . Overnight in a homestay in Cu Lao Cham.

Morning: Wake up, free to swim and chill in the area. Have breakfast and prepare luggage to load to the boat then visit Bai Huong pagoda, a holy temple in the area where you can observe daily life of fishermen here. Return to Bai Ong to swim and have a delicious lunch Afternoon: Get back on boat and get back to mainland.


Day 1: Thuy Bieu Cycling & Cooking classMorning:Pick up from hotel and depart for Hue center, ready to reach Thuy Bieu Homestay. Enjoy the vibe of this poetic city along the way where you can catch a glimpse of Perfume river, ancient Citadel and peaceful streets very distintive in central Vietnam. Reach Thuy Bieu homestay. Check in and have a tasty lunch in the lodge.

Afternoon:Start to cycle and explore Thuy Bieu village. Embraced by Perfume river on 3 sides with a population of nearly 10.000 people, Thuy Bieu is one of 5 suburban villages of Hue and also the best preserved one. Cycling amidst small paved paths with trees on the side is an ideal way to explore this area. Stop at an old house and explore unique architecture of Hue. Stop to appreciate Thanh Tra, a small type of pomelo specialty which helps to gain reputation for Hue. Stop at a incense making family and observe the meticulous production phase. Return to Thuy Bieu homestay. Chill out before joining an authentic cooking class organized by homestay owners where you can learn ingredients and art of Hue cuisine. Overnight in Thuy Bieu Homestay.

Situated on the far side of Perfume river, Thuy Bieu is a peaceful oasis 7km away from Hue town. Comprised of traditional wooden houses and known for Thanh Tra, a

small, fragrant type of pomelo fruit that can only be found here, a stay for 2 days 1 night in the village will help you feel the vibe of Hue culture.

High Light:

• Cycling and meandering along lush green gardens of Thuy Bieu.• Join a cooking class and learn how to cook traditional Hue food. • Explore Tam Giang lagoon, the most notable lagoon of its kind in the area.


Day 2: Tam Giang lagoon & Hue Citadel

Afternoon:Depart for Tam Giang lagoon, famous for very scenic shrimp farm-ing. If the imperial city brings a sense of history and heritage, Tam Giang lagoon will balance out by pure beauty of nature. Covering up to 22,000 hectares of water surface, Tam Giang Lagoon is the dating place of three big rivers, O Lau, Huong and Bo, before they run into the sea through the Thuan An estuary. This is truly a scenic site, especially in the afternoon when the sun goes down.On the way back to Thuy Bieu homestay, stop and have visit to Luon-ng Quan communal house. Back to Hue airport and depart for Hoi An.

Morning:Enjoy breakfast in Thuy Bieu Homestay and feel the vibe of the garden here. Our car will bring you to Hue Citadel complex. This imperial city used to be epicenter of Vietnamese power in 18th century and its architecture never ceases to amaze visitors. Get inside and explore this intricate complex, with gates, court and temples of worship. Have lunch in a local restaurant with traditional Hue architecture.


Beach Extension in Vung Tau

Embraced by 42km of pristine coastline, fresh seafood, high moun-tains and exciting entertainment complexes, Vung Tau is a notable seaside city in Southeast Vietnam.

IN THE South

With primite coral reefs, refreshing coconut ranges, path across national park and a system of 16 big and small islands, Con Dao is truly a paradise for anyone looking for somewhere tranquil. The place is also listed by CNN as one of 10 most peaceful islands in Asia and a host of the most high-end resorts in Vietnam.

Con Dao


Day 3: Towards Chau Doc vastland

Day 4: Reaching Cambodia

Day 5: Venture Phnom Penh

Travel by skiff along Bassac Canal to Chau Doc floating market then head off by van to Long Son Pagoda atop Sam Mountain. Ask the monks about their age-old Buddhist practices. Return to the bustling morning market. Optional 18 kilometer bike ride on Long Khanh Island or take a rickshaw ride to visit Tan Chau Market with chef. After lunch, relax by the pool, try traditional Khmer massage or learn to cook Mekong inspired dishes while we cross the border.

On this timeless river we admire dexterous Khmer artisans dyeing and weaving kroma, the ubiquitous item no Khmer lives without. Explore the riverbank on two wheels if you wish, past Buddhist temples and thatch houses perched on spindly wooden stilts while white oxen wade just offshore. After lunch, we board our marine-grade aluminum skiffs and head towards the tamarind trees of Preah Prosop, a remote village hardly changed over several generations.

We showcase the Cambodian capital to our passengers by motorized tuk-tuk, the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the National Museum of Cambodia, home to the world’s largest collection of Khmer art. For those who wish, we visit the Tuol Sleng Museum of Genocide or choose to shop at the Russian Market. Note: All itineraries are subject to change, due to weather and other conditions.

folk songs performed by villagers followed by a unique dance. A 17-kilometer biking option is also available.

Day 1: From Saigon to My Tho

Day 2: Venture in Sa Dec

We will greet you at Ho Chi Minh meeting point and transfer you by air-conditioned coach to My Tho dock where you board the Aqua Mekong. Settle into your floating retreat, with its window wall conferring an endlessly captivating panorama. Enjoy these private Mekong moments on your comfy bed.

Begin the day at Binh Thanh mat weaving village or opt to visit Sa Dec where we will peruse the vibrant market and see the famous house of Marguerite Duras' legendary lover, Mr. Huynh Thuy Le. In the afternoon, visit a typical Mekong Delta village called My An Hung where we will walk through verdant plantations. We will be invited to a local's home to taste local fruits while hearing traditional


Day 1: Arrive Siem Reap

Day 2: Meander in Angkor Wat

Warmly welcome at Siem Reap International airport and transfer to hotel for check-in.Visit the ancient Khmer civilization site of Hariharalya, which flourished in the late 9th and early 10th centuries. These are the earliest tem-ples in the Angkor area and area referred as the Roulous group. The three Roulous temples are Bakong temple Mountain with wonderful carvings on the false doors and lintels, the funerary temple of Preah Ko, Lolei Temple with the Rolous group’s most exquisite carvings and inscriptions. Overnight in Siem Reap.

Breakfast at hotel. Visit Ta Prohm, one of the area’s most beautiful temples. Ta Prohm has been relatively untouched since it was dis-covered and retained much of its mystery. Neak Pean, a foutain built in the middle of a pool (representing the paradisial Himalayan mountain lake), Ta Som, built in late 12th century C.E, the most distant temple on the grand circuit, small but classic. Preah Khan

CamboDiAoptional tour4 day Angkor Wat

Well designed for visitors seeking the chance to discover the World’s most architecturally mysterious work of

Angkor Wat.


Day 4: Siem Reap boat trip – Departure

12th century masterpiece is considered by art historians to be the prime example of classical Khmer art and architecture. Enjoy wonderful sunset from the top of Phnom Bakheng Hills. Overnight in Siem Reap.

Breakfast at hotel. This morning we will enjoy a boat ride on the Tonle Sap lake, at Kampong Phluk. This is the largest permanent fresh water lake in South East Asia and flows into Tonle Sap river, joining the Mekong in Phnom Penh. We will see a fishermen’s “floating village” with floating schools, floating police station, etc. It is same as a big village floating on the lake, and the “village” move from place to place following water level and current. Transfer to Siem Reap International airport for departure.

Day 3: Mysterious Angkor ThomBreakfast at hotel. Drive to visit the antique capital of Angkor Thom (12th century): the South Gate with its huge statues depicting the churning of the ocean of milk, the Bayon temple, unique for its 54 towers decorated with over 200 smiling faces of Avolokitesvana, the Phimeanakas, the Royal Enclosure, the Elephants Terrace and the Terrace of the Leper King. It is time to visit the most famous of all temples on the plain of Angkor: Angkor Wat. The temple complex covers 81 hectars and is comparable in size to the Imperial Palace in Beijing. Its distinctive five towers are emblazoned on the Cambodian flag and the

temple, built by the King Jayavarman VII Preah Khan is, like Ta Prohm, a place of towered enclosures and shoulder hugging corri-dors. Unlike Ta Prohm, however, the temple of Preah Khan is in a reasonable state of preservation and ongoing restoration efforts should maintain and improve this situation.Visit the unique interior brick sculptures of Prasat Kravan, Srah Srang (“The royal Baths” was once used for ritual bathing), Banteay Kdei (surrounding by 4 concentric walls), Ta Keo, constructed in the late 10th early C.E, the first temple to be constructed wholly of sandstone. Overnight in Siem Reap.


Day 2: Rural Luang PrabangAfter breakfast, visit Vat Xieng Thong, regarded as the most beautiful temple in Luang Prabang with low sweeping roofs. Take a traditional riverboat for a 2-hour cruise up the Mekong river to Pak Ou at the confluence of the Nam Ou and Mekong rivers to visit the sacred caves of Tham Ting and Tham Phoum, home to hundreds of Buddha statues. On the way, visit Vat Longkhoune temple which is famous for its 18th century frescoes followed by Ban Xang Hai village where sticky rice wine is distilled. Return to Luang Prabang and continue by road to Ban Xang Khong weaving village where traditional mulberry leaf papers are also produced. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day 3: Refreshing Kuang Si waterfalls

Day 4: Village trekking & departure

After breakfast there is an excursion by road to the picturesque Kuang Si waterfalls nestled in lush tropical forest. On the way, visit some hill tribe villages including Ban Thinkeo of the H’ Mong, the Khmu village of Ban Thapaene and the Thai Lu village of Ban Phanom. Return to Luang Prabang and spend some time strolling through the H’mong market. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

After breakfast, visit the National Museum (formerly the Royal Palace) with its collection of personal artifacts of the Laos Royal Family. Continue to the nearby Vat Mai Temple, which was the residence of a Buddhist patriarch until 1975, before climbing Phousi Hill for an outstanding view over the former Royal Capital and the Mekong river. Transfer to airport for your departure flight.

LaoSoptional tourLuang PrabanG 4N3D

Tranquil, blissful with Mekong river and spiritual with an array of Buddism vats,

Luang Prabang is a retreat for your soul in the congruence of Indochina.

Day 1: Luang Prabang arrivalMeet upon arrival at Luang Prabang airport, transfer and check-in at your hotel. In the afternoon, visit Vat Visoun temple with its Singahalese-style stupa, That Makmo and Vat Aham, one of the city’s major teaching shrines housing the puppets of Lao ancestors. Afterwards, enjoy the sunset along the Mekong river at Vat Siphouthabath.Overnight in Luang Prabang.


more than 1km.Then, visit 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 brick-and-stucco monastery; and the elegant teakwood monastery Bagaya Kyaung. Sagaing, a former capital of the Shan kingdom in the 14th century, lies across and slightly downriver from Mandalay and there are many interesting stupas scattered over Sagaing.At sunset time, proceed to the hotel and free time at leisure.

Day 3: MandalayBreakfast at the hotel.Transfer to the airport for taking morning flight to Mandalay. Arrive Mandalay airport and transfer to the former royal capital of Amarapura. The tour high-lights Mahagandayon monastery which is a school for young monks, and we will visit the U Bein Bridge as well. It is more than two centuries old and It’s the longest teakwood bridge in the world with

Day 1: Yangon

Day 2: Bagan

Welcome at Yangon airport upon arrival, visa arrangements and meet with guide. Afterwards, transfer to your hotel for check-in and free time at leisure.

Breakfast at the hotel. Early morning transfer to the airport to take domestic flight to Bagan. Bagan is considered the most important place to visit, during a stay in Myanmar at the pres-ent. Enjoy the whole day at the most extensive archaeological site in Asia. Bagan has over 2,000 temples and pagodas rising majestically from the plains to create a timeless scene, saluting a glorious past.

Upon arrival we will visit the most beautiful temples in Bagan: Ananda and Dhammayangyi.After check in at the hotel you will take in a sunset from the top of the temple Phya-tha-da where we will arrive in a typical horse carriage to see the spectacular views of this placeThen, transfer back to the hotel and free time at leisure.


Day 7: Yangon

Day 8: Yangon departure

Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast drive to airport in order to take morning flight to Yangon.Arrive Yangon airport and drive to your hotel for accommodation.Enjoy a full day tour in Yangon.Sightseeing highlights include Chaukhtatkyi Pagoda, which is a colossal reclining Buddha; Kandawgyi Park and Kandawgyi Lake, formerly known as the royal lake, was created from the British colonial administration to provide clean water to the city and finally Shwedagon Pagoda, probably the most important monument of the country.

Breakfast at the hotel. During our last day in Yangon, enjoy Scott Market (closing every Monday) and last shopping in Myanmar, including a local Jewelry Shop, just before proceeding to the airport for taking International Departure flight. End of Services!

Day 4: Mandalay

Day 5: Inle Lake

Day 6: Inle Lake

Breakfast at the hotel.We will go to Mandalay jetty where we take a short and pleasant ride upriver to Mingun, the site of what would have been the world’s largest zedi had not King Bodaw-paya died in 1819 thus halting all further work. Later an earthquake in 1838 split the monument and reduced it to partial rubble. Nonetheless, it is still a very impressive sight as we approach from the river. Nearby we can also visit the Mingun Bell, moved from the zedi after the earth-quake and now hung in a new shrine building. It is said to be the largest hanging un-cracked bell in the world. Visit Inwa, which was founded in 1364 and lasted nearly 400 years as a royal capital.After that, come back to the city by boat downstream and enjoy afternoon visit to highlights of Mandalay town, such as: Mahamuni Pagoda, gold leaf hammer-ing, Kuthodaw Pagoda, Shwenandaw Monastery and if we have time we will visit Mandalay Hill for panorama view, just before proceed to the hotel for check-in and free time at leisure.

Breakfast at the hotel. Morning transfer to Nyaung-U airport to take domestic flight to Heho. Upon arrival transfer is by road (1hr) to Nyaung Shwe town which is on Inle Lake, from there you will take a motor boat to your hotel.After check-in at the hotel, we will be beginning the tour by the lake which is surrounded by mountains and all types of plantations. We will include a visit to the Phaung Daw Oo pagoda and the Monastery of CatsThen, come back to your hotel and free time at leisure.

Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast we will visit the local market. Every day (except before full moon), somewhere in the lake, there is a market where its inhabitants, the Intha, exchange their goods. There is a visit to the ruins of Inthein and a craft centre like paper umbrella or snuff factory.Then, come back to your hotel and free time at leisure to enjoy sunset view.

66 V i e t nam tou r i sm -Hano i

68 V i e t nam tou r i sm -Hano i

V i e t n a m t o u r i s m - H a n o i

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