Highlights of Vietnam
13 Days from $3,075 per person
Float on the sparkling emerald waters of Halong Bay on a traditional Vietnamese Junk. Glide past hidden islets, giant limestone karsts and colorful fishing villages, stopping only to gain insight into the lives of the local fishermen at Cua Van and to practice T'ai Chi in exquisite surroundings.
Overview
Float on the sparkling emerald waters of Halong Bay on a traditional Vietnamese Junk. Glide past hidden islets, giant limestone karsts and colorful fishing villages, stopping only to gain insight into the lives of the local fishermen at Cua Van and to practice T'ai Chi in exquisite surroundings.
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Day 1: USA - Asia
Board your overnight flight to Asia (not included).
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Day 2: Arrive Hanoi (2 Nights)
Welcome to Vietnam. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Reception with drinks and local appetizers. -
Day 3: Hanoi Sightseeing
Start the day with a visit to the historic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, an imposing monument where the preserved body of 'Uncle Ho' resides. A short walk from here is Ho Chi Minh's house on stilts, a Cultural Insight, where he lived intermittently between 1958 and 1969. Continue to the Temple of Literature, the first university for the sons of Mandarins, for an overview of Hanoian culture. After lunch enjoy a walking tour through the Old Quarter to embrace the bustling local life. This evening is yours at leisure or choose to take part in an Optional Experience. -
Day 4: Hanoi – Halong Bay Cruise
This morning, drive through green rice paddy fields to Halong Bay to board your Authentic Accommodations, a traditional style Vietnamese junk boat. Cruise among the hundreds of islets of Halong Bay, a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage listed site. After lunch on board travel by small boat to visit the Tien Ong Cave and Cua Van Fishing Village, where the people live in floating houses. Head back to the boat and participate in a cooking demonstration with the chef or enjoy sunset on the top deck before dinner and a peaceful overnight stay. -
Day 5: Halong Bay – Hanoi – Danang - Hoi An (3 Nights)
Begin your day as the locals do during a morning T'ai Chi class with a Local Specialist, on the deck of the traditional Junk boat. Then it is time for an early morning swim at a natural white sandy beach. If you are feeling energetic, perhaps take an uphill walk to have one last view of scenic Halong Bay before your drive to Hanoi Airport to catch your flight to Danang. On arrival transfer to your hotel in Hoi An. -
Day 6: Hoi An Sightseeing
This morning enjoy a walking tour around the ancient town of Hoi An. Today this ancient UNESCO World Heritage designated town boasts well-preserved buildings, pedestrianized streets, narrow lanes and a colorful market, a Cultural Insight. See the old merchants houses and the 400 year old Japanese Covered Bridge. Later visit Tra Que Organic Village for a Cultural Insight. Spend some time helping local farmers and learning about their daily working routines, before indulging in a relaxing foot massage. After lunch return to Hoi An for the rest of the day and evening at leisure. -
Day 7: Hoi An
This morning enjoy some free time to relax at the hotel or explore Hoi An further. In the afternoon your choice of activities gives you two Cultural Insight opportunities: to join a Lantern Making Workshop or a Fishing Life Tour (subject to weather conditions) to learn about the lives of the local fishermen and have a go at casting your own fishing net. -
Day 8: Hoi An – Hue (2 Nights)
This morning depart Hoi An by boat to the Red Bridge Cooking School to learn about the traditional ways of preparing and cooking Vietnamese food. Then savor the dishes you have prepared before returning to Hoi An. In the afternoon visit the Cham Museum in Danang, before your drive over the picturesque Hai Van Pass stopping en-route at Red Beach where the American Marines first landed in Vietnam during the war. Continue to Hue for your overnight stay.
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Day 9: Hue Sightseeing
Start from your hotel with a cyclo ride to the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage designated site. From here drive to Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue's best-preserved religious monument before taking a local dragon boat trip along the Perfume River to the house of the former Princess Ngoc Son for a Be My Guest lunch. Chat with a family member to get a glimpse of their life in this historic house and enjoy lunch prepared by the family. This afternoon enjoy some free time or take part in an Optional Experience. -
Day 10: Hue – Ho Chi Minh City (3 Nights)
This morning, fly to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon and upon arrival enjoy some free time before lunch at KOTO restaurant; a non-profit social enterprise that provides training to disadvantaged young people in the hospitality industry. Next transfer to Dong Khoi Street for the start of a walking tour. See the Opera House and the former Hotel de Ville. Wander up to Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustave Eiffel. Continue to visit the War Remnants Museum for a vivid glimpse of the war through the eyes of the locals. Conclude the day at Ben Thanh market before arriving to your hotel. -
Day 11: Mekong Delta
Today take a day trip to My Tho situated in the Delta of the Mekong River. Transfer to a small sampan boat and discover the maze of small canals before stopping for a Regional Meal of delicious Mekong Delta specialties. Take a short walk along village roads to visit the house of a former soldier, a Local Specialist who survived fighting the Khmer Rouge. Now he and his wife live on making rice paper and have some fascinating stories to tell. Later return to Ho Chi Minh City for an evening at leisure. -
Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City
Today travel by private speedboat to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, an immense network of connecting underground tunnels started in 1948 to protect the Viet Cong guerrillas from the French air and ground sweeps. The tunnels also served as living quarters and housed hospitals, food and weapons caches. Tour the underground compounds and gain an understanding of the history of the tunnels. Return to Ho Chi Minh City and enjoy some free time this afternoon. Later join your fellow travelers for a visit to the home of the former American Ambassador to South Vietnam in the 1960s, Mr. Henry Cabot Lodge, a Cultural Insight followed by your Farewell Dinner. -
Day 13: Depart Ho Chi Minh City
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Important Visa Information
Visas are required for this trip. Please speak to your Travel Specialist at time of booking to assess your specific requirements. Visas cannot be issued upon entry to the country.
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Definite Departure
- Special Rate Solo Rooming
| Depart Date | Return Date | Price | Discount | Availability | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Special Rate Solo Rooming
|
14 Sep 18 | 26 Sep 18 |
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$3,075pp | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 28 Sep 18 | 10 Oct 18 |
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$3,150pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 12 Oct 18 | 24 Oct 18 |
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$3,150pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 16 Nov 18 | 28 Nov 18 |
|
$3,150pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 7 Dec 18 | 19 Dec 18 |
|
$3,150pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 14 Dec 18 | 26 Dec 18 |
|
$3,150pp | Request Quote Book Now |
- Special Rate Solo Rooming: These departures include a discount on standard single supplement.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum closed from September to mid-November.
Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin bedded room. Single rooms are available at a supplement.
Single Room Supplement: from $1050 p.p.
Room Share: Guaranteed Room Share is not available on this trip.
All inter-trip air related charges in economy class for Hanoi to Hue and Danang to Ho Chi Minh City are included in the Land Only price shown.
Visas are required for this trip. Please speak to your Travel Specialist at time of booking to assess your specific requirements. Visas cannot be issued upon entry to the country.
AARP Members are entitled to an exclusive Member Benefit Discount on all Grand European Travel vacations. Plus receive a free travel gift! Call Toll Free: 1-866-847-3858 for details.
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Professional Travel Director
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Sightseeing with Local Experts
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VIP Access
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WIFI on Coach and in Hotels
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Cultural Enrichment
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Expertly Selected Hotels
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Hotel Tips
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Most Meals
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Personal Flight Options
Meal Summary
11 nights, 11 buffet breakfasts, 8 lunches, 3 dinners, On-trip transport, .Included Highlights
Hidden Treasure
- Enjoy at least one surprise Hidden Treasure
Be My Guest
- Enjoy lunch at one of the great remaining garden houses of Hue where you will gain insight into the lives of a local family and admire their fascinating collection of artifacts and mementos from the days of the former Royal Empire
Cultural Insight
- Visit Ho Chi Minh's house. Visit the Cham museum to learn about the ancient Champa civilization. Visit the colorful market of Hoi An. Visit the home of the former American Ambassador to South Vietnam in the 1960s. Join a Lantern Making Workshop or a Fishing Life Tour to learn about the lives of the local fishermen and have a go at casting your own fishing net
Authentic Accommodations
- Stay on a traditional style Vietnamese Junk boat for an overnight cruise in Halong Bay
Local Specialist
- in Halong Bay and the Mekong Delta
Sightseeing Highlights
- City Tour of Hanoi, Hoi An, Hue, Ho Chi Minh City
- Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature in Hanoi, the Imperial Citadel in Hue, the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels
- See Red Beach in Danang
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Important Visa Information
Visas are required for this trip. Please speak to your Travel Specialist at time of booking to assess your specific requirements. Visas cannot be issued upon entry to the country.
Reviews
Request a Quote
-
30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Important Visa Information
Visas are required for this trip. Please speak to your Travel Specialist at time of booking to assess your specific requirements. Visas cannot be issued upon entry to the country.
Optional Experiences are subject to change. Your Travel Director will supply you with a final list of Optional Experiences available on your trip. Optional Experiences cannot be booked online; they can be purchased during your trip through your Travel Director.
Hanoi
Afternoon Foodie Tour
Adult Price: $26
Eating on the street is a very typical activity for Hanoians and makes up an important part of the city’s unique culture. Take a leisurely walk with a local foodie to the Old Quarter. Taste the national Vietnamese dish - Pho Ga (chicken noodle soup) and then wander around a local market to enjoy the sights, sounds and aroma from the numerous kinds of food on offer. Sample some Banh Duc – cooked rice powder with Vietnamese spices followed by a visit to a little shop selling many different types of traditional Northern cakes such as Com cake (young rice) which is considered to be a part of every Hanoians’ childhood. Continue to a small alley to get an idea of the typical “tube houses” of Hanoi and afterwards stop at Banh My Lan On to try their famous bread with Pâté. Later enjoy some Vietnamese desserts and cap off your walk by tasting a cup of Vietnamese egg coffee.
Water Puppet Show
Adult Price: $12
Enjoy a traditional evening Water Puppet performance in a local theater. This northern Vietnamese art form beautifully illustrates scenes of rural life and natural history and began approximately a thousand years ago, possibly in the flooded rice fields of Vietnam. Puppeteers stand in waist-high water and manipulate their charges in such a way that you can’t help but be swept up in the legend being told. Each short sketch in the performance relates to the daily life of the people.
Hue
Royal Dinner At Ancient Hue
Adult Price: $87
Royal cuisine served at the Nguyen Emperors’ banquets were legendary. Tonight, dress up in traditional Royal costume like King, Queen & Mandarins. Savour an unforgettable dinner with typical Royal dishes at an Ancient Hue restaurant. The restaurant, with its distinctive ancient houses, offers a glimpse of the city’s splendid past. There is nothing better than enjoying a delicious meal while listening to melodious music and having the feeling of being treated like Royal dignitaries.
Enamel Art Experience
Adult Price: $30
Enamel (Phap Lam) plays a large role in Vietnamese history, particularly in Hue where enamelware was used for imperial structures and by royal families during the Nguyen Dynasty. After becoming lost in existence after nearly 200 years, Hue people are starting to relive this traditional fine art. The enamel is painted onto an ornamental object usually made of copper, gold or silver. Meet with the artisan Mr. Triet Do, a famous expert at Enamel Hue and learn about his endeavor to restore this way of art by working in collaboration with goldsmiths, silversmiths and specialists in metal carving and pottery. Take the opportunity to see the complete process of making a stunning Phap Lam product and have a go at creating one of your own. NB. The above price is in US dollars.
Hoi An
My Son Temples
Adult Price: $20
My Son is one of the foremost Hindu temple sites in South East Asia. For the Cham civilization that ruled Central Vietnam from the 2nd to the 13th century, My Son was an important religious site and place of worship. A 1.5-hour drive from Hoi An will bring you to My Son where there are 20 monuments still standing today. The temples are set in a verdant valley surrounded by hills and overlooked by the impressive Cat Tooth Mountain. Stroll around this UNESCO listed temple complex and learn about the Cham culture, architecture and civilization before returning to Hoi An.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Important Visa Information
Visas are required for this trip. Please speak to your Travel Specialist at time of booking to assess your specific requirements. Visas cannot be issued upon entry to the country.
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Passports and Visas
U.S. citizens traveling to Vietnam must have a current passport that is valid for six months beyond the conclusion of their trip. You can find information on how to apply for a passport here, and how to renew a passport here. Travelers visiting Vietnam will also need an entry visa. We will send you application forms to complete to obtain your visa prior to departure. Visa costs and entry requirements can change at any time. Please visit travel.state.gov to learn more.
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Currency
The currency in Vietnam is the Dong. We recommend bringing a few cards on your trip as well as some cash. You can obtain cash in the local currency at ATMs. It is important that you inform your financial institutions of your travel plans before you leave home so they don’t flag your purchases as potentially fraudulent charges.
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Cuisine
One of the most enjoyable parts of traveling is sampling the local food, and Southeast Asia is known for its delicious cuisines. On your trip you’ll discover lightly prepared dishes including noodles, rice, vegetables, and seafood flavored with a variety of herbs and spices.
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Packing
We suggest bringing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that can be layered for your trip. Sturdy walking shoes are important for sightseeing excursions; a hat, lightweight jacket, and shawl or scarf might also come in handy. Keep in mind that your shoulders and knees should be covered while visiting religious sites. For more helpful information please refer to our Packing Tips & Packing List.
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Tipping
Tipping in Vietnam is not required or expected, but always appreciated. It is appropriate to leave some coins or round up your bill at bars and restaurants.
At the end of your guided vacation, it’s customary to offer your motor coach driver and Travel Director a gratuity. We recommend the equivalent of $4 per person/per day for your driver and $6 per person/per day for your Travel Director. Recommended gratuity for a Local Host and Local Specialist is the equivalent of 1-2 dollars per person, paid at the conclusion of each guided visit. A convenient option is to prepay your tips before your departure.
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Baggage
Baggage on our trips is restricted to one large suitcase per person with dimensions not exceeding 30x19x10 inches and a maximum weight of 50 pounds. You are also permitted one piece of hand luggage, which should be small enough to fit under your coach seat or on the small overhead shelf compartment. Please note that luggage with an adjustable handle and wheels will not fit in the overhead compartment of the coach. Hotel porterage is included in your vacation.
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Health and Fitness
You will need to be comfortable on your feet, walking and standing for up to three hours in various weather conditions. All of our vacations involve walking, often on cobblestone and uneven surfaces in historic city centers. In order to get the most out of your vacation you need to be able to comfortably walk 1-3 miles unassisted in one day, be in good condition and be able to keep pace with the group.
If you need any medications, it is important that you bring enough to last you the whole trip and keep them in your carry-on bag while you travel.
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Insurance
We highly recommend our optional Travel Protection Plan, which allows you to cancel for any reason up to 24 hours before departure. The plan also includes trip interruption, baggage loss or delay, and medical and emergency assistance. Click here for a summary of coverage details, terms and conditions.
Request a Quote
-
30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
-
Important Visa Information
Visas are required for this trip. Please speak to your Travel Specialist at time of booking to assess your specific requirements. Visas cannot be issued upon entry to the country.
