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Vietnam Signature & Phuket - Guided Tour


Vietnam and Beyond
  • Overview
  • Itinerary
  • Accommodation

Want to experience the rich culture, fascinating history and dramatic landscapes of South-East Asia while still having time to lounge on the beach? This is the tour for you. Highlights of Vietnam and Phuket combines a guided tour of Vietnam’s most spectacular sights with 5 nights of total relaxation on the Thai island of Phuket. Expertly crafted to help you get the most from your holiday, this itinerary covers north, central and south Vietnam so you can observe the distinct identities and landscapes that make up this enchanting nation. The bustling cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh provide countless cultural encounters while Halong Bay and the Hai Van Pass are home to the kind of breathtaking beauty that stays with you forever. In the Mekong Delta, you’ll observe a more traditional side to life in Vietnam with thoughtfully-devised excursions that provide authentic interactions with locals. In picturesque Phuket, you’re free to do as you please. Chill out in your luxurious resort, soak up the sun on the beach, snorkel in the emerald waters of the Andaman Sea or shop to you drop in the island’s markets, boutiques and malls. The choice is yours!

£2389

from / per person

Includes international flights

  • Hanoi + Halong Bay + Hue + Hoi An + Ho Chi Minh City + Mekong Delta + Phuket
  • 15 nights
Personalise this itinerary or build a tailor-made tour from scratch by calling us on 020 3893 1862

Day 1 - Hanoi

Your Vietnamese adventure begins! Your driver and guide will welcome you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel in downtown Hanoi. Later in the afternoon you’ll explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter by cyclo (Vietnamese rickshaw). This tour visits the Old Quarter of Hanoi by a combination of cyclo, electric buggy and walking (total duration approximately 2 hours). Leave your hotel by cyclo and head into the old town navigating the narrow alleyways (about 20 minutes). Transfer to foot and walk with your guide through the small streets for approximately 30-40 minutes to Dong Xuan. From here pick up a buggy and drive through another section of the ancient town for approximately 30 minutes before being dropped off near the Opera House and transferred back to your hotel. NOTE: Availability: evening Suggested time: 17.30 – 19.30 Guests staying in hotels outside of the city center will be transferred by vehicle to a point close to the Opera House and will pick up the cyclo from there. 20~30 min transportation by cyclo (pedicab) on a private basis 30 minutes transportation by electric buggy (maximum 4pax/buggy) Walking around Old Quarter with the escorted guide

Uncover Hanoi

Situated in the North, Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and is the second largest city in the country. More than a thousand years old, Hanoi’s rich history can still be observed to this day in the ancient architecture of its Old Quarter, as well as in the remnants of French and Chinese-style buildings across the city. This bustling metropolis is home to fascinating museums, turn-of-the-century temples and important historical sites.

Day 2 - Hanoi Guided Tour

Embark on a full day city tour of Vietnam's capital with an English-speaking guide in a fully air-conditioned car. You’ll discover a number of important sites, Ba Dinh Square where silent sentries guard the marble mausoleum in which Ho Chi Minh lies in state. Subject to opening hours, the interior of the mausoleum may be visited. Continue to the modest stilted wooden bungalow where Uncle Ho lived and worked, before visiting Ho Chi Minh Museum. Dedicated to the 'father of the country’, the museum chronicles the evolution of Vietnamese independence. French architecture features prominently in Hanoi and the nearby former Governor's Residence is a fine example. Continue to the One Pillar Pagoda, a Buddhist pagoda with a history steeped in folklore. The final stop is the Thang Long Royal Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the 11th century during the Ly Viet Dynasty. This important historical site served as the capital of Vietnam for eight centuries. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing your exploration of the city, resplendent with French colonial architecture including the exquisite, Opera House. Pass Hoan Kiem Lake, also known as the ‘Lake of the Restored Sword’ after the legend that surrounds it, en-route to one of the city's many fascinating museums: choose from Ancient History, Military History, Hoa Lo Prison or Fine Arts Museum, depending on your personal interests (please discuss with your tour guide at destination!). Continue to the Temple of Literature, a serene retreat from the busy streets outside. Built in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius, it became Vietnam's first university. The best way to experience Hanoi's Old Quarter is on foot and next we take a walking tour through an area of the city known as ’36 Streets’. The oldest continuously developed area of Vietnam, this densely populated section of Hanoi was once an important centre of commerce where goods were sold on the street name of a particular guild. The labyrinthine alleyways are perfect for exploring on foot with names such as Sugar Street, Tin Street and Paper Street. NOTE: Availability: morning to afternoon Suggested time: 08.00 – 16.30 from Tuesday till Thursday & Sunday Lunch at a local restaurant Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is closed every Monday & Friday, all afternoons and from mid-June until mid-August. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum will be closed from 15 Jun. and reopen on 15 Aug. for annual maintenance. During this period, the visit is still avialable at President of Palace and his home or walk outside the Mausoleum. Services included: Private return transfer with English speaking guide Lunch at local restaurant Entrance fee

Day 3 - Hoa Lu

Your transfer will take you to the picturesque province of Ninh Binh, where you’ll visit the elaborate temples of Vietnam’s ancient imperial capital, Hoa Lu. Particularly impressive is the former palace and citadel of the emperor Tien Hoang De, which was reconstructed in the 17th century. In the afternoon, you’ll be escorted along the Ngo Dong River on a traditional sampan, finally reaching the Red River Delta where you’ll be able to visit the Tam Coc caves. One of the most popular sites in northern Vietnam, Tam Coc is a complex of three caves hidden beneath enormous rock formations, which have been gradually eroded by the river. Once back in Hanoi, you’ll enjoy an authentic rural meal from one of Vietnam’s rural regions at a local restaurant. NOTE: Availability: morning to afternoon Suggested time: 07.30 – 16.30 Services included: Private return transfer with English Speaking guide Lunch at local restaurant Entrance fee Boat in Trang An

Day 4 - Hanoi - Halong

Your guide will take you to the spectacular Halong Bay, where you’ll cruise through the poetic landscape on a traditional Junk (sailing ship). Throughout the day you’ll explore the array of naturally formed islets and caves scattered across the seascape. In the evening, you’ll be served a fresh seafood dinner on the moonlit bay, with the option of either sleeping onboard overnight or staying at a hotel.

Admire the jade-green waters of Halong Bay

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay is scattered with more than 2000 floating islands of karstic rock. Legend has it that these floating islands were created by a family of dragons who were invoked by the Emperor to protect Vietnam against Chinese invaders. The dragons flew across the bay, spitting out jewels and jade, which magically turned into scattered islands. Together, these islands linked to create a protective barrier, which can still be admired to this day.

Day 5 - Halong – Hanoi – Hue

Enjoy a refreshing morning swim in the waters of Halong Bay, before journeying to Halong City for a fresh seafood lunch. You’ll then be transferred to Noi Bai International Airport, where you’ll take a one-hour (approx..) flight to Hue.

Discover Vietnam’s first UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site

Situated in central Vietnam, Hue was formerly the imperial capital and is one of Vietnam’s most important historical sites. Hue is best known for its impressive architecture – with citadels, pagodas, tombs, palaces and temples set against the atmospheric backdrop of the Perfume River. In 1993, Hue became Vietnam’s first UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site.

Day 6 - Hue

Explore the city of Hue, starting off with a visit to the impressive Minh Mang Tomb (a 19th century tomb complex whose with magnificent architecture is set against a sublime forest) and Khai Dinh Tombs (the last imperial tomb built in Hue - it took 11 years to build and is considered the most majestic imperial tomb in all Vietnam). In the afternoon, you’ll be taken on a private tour of the sprawling grounds of the imperial city, comprising the Royal Citadel and Forbidden Citadel. Take a boat cruise along the Perfume River and finish off with a visit to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, a 17th century seven-story temple, and the unofficial symbol of Hue. NOTE: • Availability: morning to afternoon • Suggested time: 08.00 – 16.00 Services included • Private return transfer with English speaking guide • Entrance fees • Lunch at local restaurant

Day 7 - Hue – Da Nang- Hoi An

Transfer to Hoi An

After breakfast, you’ll embark on a picturesque journey to Hoi An. Venturing across the Hai Van mountain pass, one of the most beautiful roads in all of Asia, you’ll traverse through verdant mountains flanked by the South China Sea and stop for a glimpse of the panoramic view over Lang Co beach. The highest point of the pass sits at 1,627 ft. and is perpetually shrouded in clouds. Continuing your journey south, you’ll stop at the fascinating Cham museum in Da Nang, where you’ll be able to explore the Buddhist Shrines of the Marble Mountain Caves before arriving at your hotel in Hoi An. Services included: • The duration of the transfer is 8 hours. The personalised stops should not be longer than 8 hours including the transfer. • English Speaking Guide and Driver • Road tolls and Parking Fees Service Not included • Entrance Fees • Tipping • Meals

Settle into the riverside town of Hoi An

A picturesque riverside town, Hoi An was formally the port of the Cham Kingdom. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town’s architecture – with narrow streets, roof-tiled houses, carved pillars and lacquered panels - lays testament to the heavy Chinese influence in the area during the height of Hoi An’s trading years in the 16th century.

Day 8 - Hoi An

Take a stroll through the ancient streets of Hoi An, admiring the complex of 844 houses and temples, and exploring the colourful market on the right bank of the city’s river. You’ll have free time in the afternoon to experience Hoi An’s mouthwatering street food and pack in some extra shopping.

Day 9 - Da Nang – Ho Chi Minh City

Experience the capital of Vietnam

You’ll be transferred to Da Nang Airport, where you will take a one-hour flight to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon). After settling in at your hotel, you’ll be taken on a morning city tour, where you’ll be able to admire including some of the country’s finest examples of French colonial architecture, such as (including the 19th-century Notre Dame Cathedral and Old Saigon Post Office). In the afternoon, you’ll have the chance to explore the History Museum, Reunification Palace, Criminal Museum, Big Market (Cho Lon) and Ben Thanh Market. NOTE: • Availability: morning • Suggested time: 08.00 – 18.00 • Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral has been under renovated since July 2017. The construction takes about two years to complete. Due to this renovation work, visitor might not visit inside the site on spot. It is sorry for this inconvenience. • Reunification Place open on 05 Feb 2018 as from 09:30 • Museum of Vietnamese History is closed on Mondays & 04 Feb 2019 Services included • Entrance fee • Private full day transfer with English speaking guide • Lunch at local restaurant

Ho Chi Minh City

Formerly known as Saigon, the capital of Southern Vietnam was baptised Ho Chi Minh City after the Vietnam war. This rapidly-developing metropolis is buzzing with restaurants, bars and shopping centres. At night, the city transforms into a Tokyo-esque light-fest, with coloured lights beaming from high-rise buildings. Vibrant and fast-paced, Ho Chi Minh even has the greatest number of motorcycles in the world! Modernity is met by tradition, however, as the city is also renowned for its French colonial buildings, internationally-acclaimed museums, and historic landmarks.

Day 10 - Ho Chi Minh City – The Mekong Delta

Embark on an excursion to the Mekong Delta, a breathtaking maze of canals, swamps and islands. You’ll visit Cai Be, a floating market where you can try exotic fruits. After an atmospheric lunch in a bonsai garden, you’ll be taken back to Ho Chi Minh City for a leisurely afternoon. NOTE: • Availability: morning • Suggested time: 08.00 – 18.00 Services included • Lunch at a local restaurant • Private cruise on a traditional wooden sampan • Fresh seasonal fruits, tea and mineral water during the cruise • Private return transfer with English speaking guide

Travel through the Mekong Delta

This vast expanse of land is home to more than 20-million people and is renowned for its picturesque panoramas of rice paddy fields, floating villages, and jungle-like rivers. An agricultural centre, the Mekong Delta is teeming with coconut palms, sugarcane groves and fruit orchards. The region truly gives an authentic insight into rural Vietnam, with its friendly locals and laidback atmosphere.

Day 11 - Ho Chi Minh City - Bangkok – Phuket

Known as the “Pearl of Andaman”, Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and arguably the most beautiful. You’ll be spoilt for choice with the activities on offer on this paradisiacal island – from the rich cultural offerings and food scene in Phuket Town and the hedonistic clubs packed with go-go girls in Patong - to the virgin rainforests and wildlife reserves in Northern Phuket. Covered in lush, tropical flora, the island is also home to a vast range of beaches, each with a distinct character and geography. Though Phuket is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand, the island still boasts some virgin corners of white sand. Located in the west of the Andaman Sea, Phuket is a great spot for snorkelling and diving, with a beautiful coast of crystal-clear waters inhabited by colourful marine wildlife. This is the perfect end to an adventure-packed trip!

Day 16 - Departure

Say goodbye to Thailand and make your way to Phuket airport (transfers in Thailand not included). Fly back home.

Hanoi La Siesta Trendy

  • Bed & Breakfast
  • Hanoi

Located in the centre of Hanoi’s splendid Old Quarter, Hanoi La Siesta Trendy Hotel is a luxury 5* oasis of calm in the bustling city. Its alternative yet stylish décor gives the hotel a boutique flair, whilst it’s modern facilities and furnishings provide the ultimate comfort and splendour. Staying in the exclusive Trendy Suite, you’ll wake up to vibrant street views from the guestroom’s panoramic windows. Spacious and elegant, the Trendy Suite is furnished with a plush King-sized bed, a generous seating area, a flat-screen TV, minibar, electronic safe deposit box, alarm clock and an ensuite bathroom. Guests receive an indulgent service with remarkable attention to detail, including welcome drinks and refreshment towels on arrival, luxury bathroom amenities, soft bathrobes, and an evening turndown service. Hanoi La Siesta Trendy also features an onsite spa, one of the most recognised in all of Hanoi. The sleek and contemporary Red Bean Restaurant sits on the 8th floor, offering views of Hanoi’s mesmerising skyline. You’ll be tantalised by all the fine aromas and flavours at this truly exquisite restaurant, specialising in Vietnamese cuisine. Adding to the luxury experience is a finely-stocked wine cellar and cigar bar, as well as a library and lounge. This is the perfect choice for those looking to visit Hanoi in style!

Pelican Cruise

  • Bed & Breakfast
  • Halong Bay

A traditional Vietnamese ship, the Pelican Cruise is inspired by 14th-century wooden junks. Enjoy a unique stay aboard Pelican Cruise’s roomy cabins, each of which is beautifully decorated with dark wood panelling and fitted with an ensuite bathroom as well as panoramic windows offering spectacular views of Halong Bay. Those looking for some fun aboard will find that there are a variety of activities and services to keep everyone entertained, including Tai Chi classes, cooking classes, karaoke and kayaking excursions. The Pelican Cruise also features an onboard spa, providing customised massages, facials and relaxing therapies. Pelican Cruise is also home to a restaurant with a view, offering a delectable mix of Western and Asian cuisines. A night aboard the Pelican Cruise promises a truly unforgettable experience in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay.

Serene Palace Hotel

  • Bed & Breakfast
  • Hue

Stylish and sleek, the brand-new Serene Palace Hotel is centrally located in Hue – just a 5-minute walk from the Perfume River and a number of important attractions. The Hue Serene Palace promises lavish comforts and excellent service, with free WiFi, laundry services, room service, and money exchange. Serving breakfast daily at the Serene Palace Restaurant, guests can also request for their breakfast be delivered to their room. Rooms are spacious, elegantly decorated, and beautifully-lit. Each room features air-conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a personal computer, a safe, and an ensuite bathroom.

Lantana Riverside Boutique

  • Bed & Breakfast
  • Hoi An, Vietnam

Just a 15-minute walk from the Ancient Town of Hoi An, Lantana Riverside Hoi An Boutique Hotel and Spa boasts stunning panoramic views of the village and river. Lantana’s boutique-style Deluxe Rooms are tastefully decorated, including air-conditioning, a flat-screen TV, an ensuite bathroom with a walk-in rainfall shower, and a private balcony overlooking the Hoi An’s winding streets. This modern, stylish hotel offers a 24-hour desk service, where you can arrange tours, currency exchange, ticketing, babysitting services and even call an in-house doctor. The hotel is also home to the Lantana Spa, where guests can indulge in some quiet relaxation. Cool off in Lantana’s beautiful outdoor swimming pool or catch some rays on one of the comfortable cabanas dotted around the pool. Lantana also houses an exquisite restaurant, offering a creative range of menus at breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Lavender Boutique Hotel

  • Bed & Breakfast
  • Ho Chi Minh City

<p class="Default"><span style="font-size: 11.5pt;">Situated right in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, Lavender Boutique Hotel is just a hop, skip and jump from the city’s main tourist attractions, shopping centres, restaurants, bars and clubs. With stunning city views, this modern hotel offers the utmost comfort and style for those looking to immerse themselves in Vietnam’s capital. Lavender’s Deluxe rooms are comfortable and spacious, decorated in a trendy palette of colours. With silky-soft bed linens and comfy pillows you’ll be guaranteed a great night’s sleep – just what you need after an intense day of site-seeing! All rooms include an en-suite shower and bathtub, complimentary WiFi, air-conditioning, a flat-screen TV, as well as laundry and dry-cleaning services. The hotel’s onsite Boutique Restaurant offers an international buffet breakfast as well as delectable Vietnamese, Asian and European cuisine throughout the day. </span>

Horizon Karon Beach Resort & Spa

  • Bed & Breakfast
  • Phuket Island

A heavenly oasis set amongst tropical gardens, Horizon Karon Beach Resort and Spa is just a 4-minute stroll from Karon and Kata Beach. Tastefully decorated with modern Asian-inspired décor, the hotel features two wings: the comfortable and contemporary Horizon Wing and the exclusive adults-only Club Wing. Superior Pool View Rooms are luxurious and spacious, decorated with beautiful dark wood furniture and equipped with air conditioning, satellite-TV, a minibar, and an ensuite bathroom. These gorgeous rooms feature a private balcony where guests can admire views of the hotel’s 3 large swimming pools. Horizon Karon Beach Resort includes an on-site spa with a range of reinvigorating treatments available, as well as a fully-equipped Pulse Fitness Centre, and a ‘Jack and Jill’ Kids Club for children aged 4-12. The hotel’s award-winning restaurant, Baluchi, serves “The Best Indian Cuisine at Phuket Island”. Guests can also dine at BorderTown Restaurant and Terrace, which offers a wide selection of Asian and international cuisines until midnight. Those with a sweet tooth will be delighted by the Orchid Lounge, whilst cocktail-lovers will enjoy sipping expertly-mixed creations in the Privelege Club Lounge. Horizon Karon Beach Resort also runs a complimentary shuttle bus service to Karon Beach (just a 2-minute drive away!) throughout the day, so you can enjoy a variety of beaches.

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