Sensational Vietnam and Laos

Day 1: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City

Welcome to Vietnam! Upon arrival in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), meet your private driver and transfer to a five-star hotel. Relax and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. In the evening, enjoy dinner at one of Saigon’s finest rooftop restaurants, with panoramic city views.

Day 2: Cu Chi Tunnels & War Remnants Museum

Today, delve into Vietnam’s wartime past:

• Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, guided by a former Viet Cong soldier.
• Explore the powerful exhibits at the War Remnants Museum.
• In the afternoon, experience the traditional art of Vietnamese coffee brewing.

Day 3: Mekong Delta Private Cruise

Embark on a private cruise through the lush Mekong Delta:

• Visit coconut plantations.
• Stop at a former soldier’s home to learn about life during and after the war.
• Enjoy peaceful riverside scenery, cultural interactions, and local crafts.

Day 4: Fly to Hue – Phu Mong Village & Garden House Dinner

Fly from Ho Chi Minh City to Hue, the former imperial capital.

• Cycle through rice fields and countryside paths to reach Phu Mong Village.
• Visit traditional garden houses surrounded by fruit trees.
• In the evening, dine at the elegant Ben Xuan Garden House Theatre, accompanied by live traditional music.

Day 5: Imperial Hue – Citadel & Royal Tomb

Begin early to explore:

• The UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel, before crowds arrive.
• The Royal Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, known for its harmony with nature.
• Afternoon options: a cyclo ride along the Perfume River or visit a private antique museum.

Day 6: Scenic Drive to Hoi An – Ancient Town Exploration

Drive to Hoi An via the Hai Van Pass, offering spectacular coastal views.

• Explore the UNESCO-listed Ancient Town:
  Japanese Covered Bridge, Tan Ky House, and historic merchant homes.
• Evening: Dinner at a fine local restaurant of your choice.

Day 7: Thanh Dong Village & Cooking Class

Glide through narrow canals in a bamboo basket boat to reach Thanh Dong village.

• Meet local farmers and learn about organic vegetable farming.
• Join a hands-on cooking class with a professional chef using freshly picked ingredients.

Day 8: Fly to Hanoi – Street Food Tour

Fly from Danang to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam.

• After check-in, embark on a guided street food walking tour with a local expert.
• Sample iconic dishes such as bun cha, pho, banh cuon, and egg coffee in the Old Quarter.

Day 9: Ha Long Bay Cruise

Transfer to Ha Long Bay and board your luxury junk boat:

• Cruise past emerald waters and limestone islands.
• Visit dramatic caves and floating fishing villages.
• Participate in a Vietnamese cooking demonstration before a seafood dinner onboard.

Day 10: Tai Chi & Scenic Cruise – Return to Hanoi

Start your day with Tai Chi on deck.

• Continue cruising through the stunning bay.
• Disembark late morning and return to Hanoi.
• Evening at leisure or optional local performance (e.g., Water Puppet Show).

Day 11: Hanoi Cultural Discovery

• Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university.
• Learn about Confucian philosophy and explore the Well of Heavenly Clarity.
• Afternoon at leisure or shop in the Old Quarter.
• End the day with a farewell dinner in a beautifully restored colonial villa.

Day 12: Fly to Luang Prabang, Laos

Fly to Luang Prabang, the UNESCO World Heritage city in Laos.

• Check into a luxurious hotel nestled in tropical gardens.
• Enjoy a relaxed afternoon exploring nearby temples or relaxing by the pool.

Day 13: Alms Giving, Culture & Mekong Sunset Cruise

• Rise early to witness the alms-giving ceremony – a spiritual ritual unique to Laos.
• Visit cultural landmarks like Wat Xieng Thong and the Royal Palace.
• End your journey with a private sunset cruise along the Mekong River, sipping wine as golden light reflects on the water.

Day 14: Departure from Luang Prabang

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast. Depending on your flight time, take a final stroll or shop for souvenirs. Your private transfer will take you to the airport, concluding your luxurious journey through Vietnam and Laos.