Overview
The intriguing world of Indochine beckons with marvelous landscapes, centuries of history, and a fascinating mix of cultures. On this Private Journey, explore vibrant Hanoi, with its 15th century Old Quarter, and enjoy the surreal beauty of Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay, with two overnights aboard your own private sailing junk. Heading along the South China Sea, stop at China Beach, where American soldiers spent “R&R” during the Vietnam War, and continue to the picturesque riverside town of Hoi An, with its wonderful markets and an option for bicycling along country lanes. After visiting the royal city of Hue, your grand finale is a visit to Cambodia’s exquisite Angkor, an ancient temple city lost in the jungle. We also offer a wildly popular pre-trip extension to Laos to explore the ancient town of Luang Prabang, a World Heritage Site of royal temples, and fascinating hilltribe markets. Enjoy daily activities with your regional private guides, who specialize in each area that you visit. Fun add-on options include a water puppet performance in Hanoi, a cooking class in the beautiful city of Hoi An, and a Cu Chi Tunnel Tour in Saigon.
Our guides were knowledgeable, personable, flexible, and very attentive in every way. We all appreciated not only their knowledge of history but also their open and honest comments about their countries' challenges.
— Carol B., Saint Louis, MO
Itinerary at a Glance
Days 1-2
Ancient Hanoi
Thousand-year-old Hanoi is a fascinating city. The Old Quarter, the heart of Hanoi since the 15th century, is an incredible warren of winding streets and magnificent architecture. Explore on foot and by traditional cyclo-rickshaw with your private guide, visiting sites such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature. If you like, you can add on a water puppet performance, which is brought to life with Vietnam’s traditional marionettes on a stage of water.
Days 3-5
Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay by Private Boat
The World Heritage Site of Halong Bay is a magical setting of thousands of sheer limestone islands soaring out of a jade-green sea. Explore Halong Bay aboard your own private sailing junk, staffed by a crew of at least five plus a private chef. Visit Surprise Cave, with its spectacular stalagmites, and beautiful Ho Dong Tien ("Fairy Lake Cave"), a flooded cave. Optional kayaking is available, and you can enjoy visits to sea grottoes, hidden lakes, and coves. Return to Hanoi for overnight on Day 5.
Days 6-7
Traditional Hoi An
You'll get a vivid sense of history as you walk the narrow streets of the picturesque town of Hoi An, a trading port from the 15th to 19th centuries and now a World Heritage Site. Explore nearby My Son, Vietnam's most evocative Cham archaeological site, and enjoy optional biking along country roads with your private guide. If you wish, you can add-on a private cooking school experience at Red Bridge Cooking School, set in three acres of lush tropical gardens and a highlight of the culinary scene in Hoi An.
Days 8-10
Royal City of Hue / Saigon
In Hue, Vietnam’s cultural and religious capital, explore the Tam Giang Lagoon, the Royal Tombs of the Nguyen emperors, and the Thien Mu Pagoda and Imperial Citadel. Optional biking with your private guide is available. On Day 10, enjoy bustling Saigon, with its French colonial landmarkes, including the Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office. An optional add-on includes a visit to Saigon’s Cu Chi Tunnels, a legendary network of underground passageways from the Vietnam War (please note: if you would like to add this tour to your Private Journey, an additional overnight will be required in Saigon).
Days 11-13
Angkor, City of Temples
Scattered across a tropical landscape, Cambodia’s royal city of Angkor is one of the most extensive and awe-inspiring archaeolgical sites in the world, and a lasting testament to the glory of a bygone Khmer civilization. Explore this architectural masterpiece of breathtaking temples, and enjoy a sunset climb up Phnom Bakheng and sunrise over Angkor Wat for spectacular views. Depart on Day 13.
OPTIONAL ADD-ONS INCLUDE:
- Water Puppet Performance
- Private Cooking Class
- Cu Chi Tunnel Tour
Vietnam and Cambodia Private Journey
