How to travel to vietnam

SAPA TOUR BY TRAIN 4 DAYS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 12 Jul 2013 00:39:00 -0700

Overview

The northwestern part of Vietnam is one of the most interesting and beautiful areas of South East Asia. Vietnam has 54 ethnic groups and the area around Sapa is an exciting place to see the lives, culture and costumes of some of Vietnam’s ethnic minorities. In this part of the country the minorities still dress in their traditional colorful clothing – especially the women. Each group has its own distinct color and style of dress.On this tour you will go by train to Sapa and visit some of the minority people in the Sapa Valley and experience the colorful Sapa market where some of the different ethnic groups come into town to sell their products.

Itinerary

Day 1: Night train from Hanoi to Lao Cai.
You will be picked up from your hotel at 20:10 for transfer to the train station. From here, you take a night train from Hanoi to Lao Cai. The night train leaves at 21:10. Overnight stay on train in a 4-berth soft sleeper cabin.

Day 2: Lao Cai - Sapa - Cat Cat village - Sapa.
You arrive at Lao Cai train station early in the morning (around 05:30), from where you will be picked up and have a shared bus transfer to Sapa (35km - about 1 hour drive). Check-in at Cat Cat Hotel. In the morning, you will have time on your own to enjoy the view of Fansipan (3.143m) on the other side of the Sapa valley and to explore the market where some of the different ethnic minority groups come into town to sell their products. In the afternoon, you will walk down to Cat Cat Village and the beautiful valley, which is home of the Black H’mong people. Black H’mong is one of the biggest and poorest minority groups in the Sapa area. But they are proud of their culture and stick to their traditions and way of living. They have their own language and wear traditional indigio blue clothing.
Overnight stay at Cat Cat Hotel in Sapa.

Day 3: Sapa - Ta Phin village - Sapa. (B)
Today a jeep or motorbike will take you to Ta Phin village where you will experience the customs and life of Red Dao people. The Red Dao women have very colorful red embroideries and coins on their clothing. On the head they wear a deep red scarf. Some of the women have shaved off their eyebrows because a hairless face is considered to be very beautiful by the Red Dao.
Overnight stay at Cat Cat Hotel in Sapa.

Day 4: Free and easy in Sapa town. (B)
You have a free day to relax and discover the daily life of the local people in Sapa town. You will be picked up by bus to Lao Cai train station at around 16:00 and from here get a night train back to Hanoi. You arrive in Hanoi the next morning, at around 05:00.
Tour ends at Hanoi train station.

(B: breakfast)

MEKONG DELTA 2 DAYS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 27 Jun 2013 01:54:00 -0700

Overview

The Vietnam part of the Mekong delta is more than 200km long. The locals live mainly by farming, fishing, gardening and raising poultry. Tourism in this area has just started to develop, which means that there are many places along the river, where no tourists have yet been. This trip is a boat trip on the Mekong river, experiencing the daily life of the locals who inhabit the region, visiting orchards, bee -keeping farms, taste natural honey & honey wine, enjoying tropical fruit, traditional music and a visit to an interesting floating market where many local people gather to sell their produce.

Itinerary

Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City - Cai Be - Vinh Long - Can Tho (L, D)
In the morning take 3 hour drive to Cai Be Town, deep in the Mekong Delta - the second largest Delta in the world, and embark on a private boat. The tour begins by visiting the colorful Cai Be floating market, some local home-made workshops that produce rice paste, rice popcorn and coconut candy.
Proceeding to evergreen islands among the Mekong River through a large network of meandering tributaries, crisscrossed with countless arroyos where you can have an easy biking on the local roads if you wish. Lunch is served at a local home before cruising to Vinh Long to discover beautiful landscapes along the river and observe the typical Mekong Delta rural life.
in the afternoon, drive to Can Tho. Overnight at the blended colonial-style architecture with the natural beauty of the river in Can Tho.

Day 2: Can Tho - Cai Rang Floating Market - Ho Chi Minh City (B, L)
After breakfast, check out the Hotel and take a small local boat cruising to visit colorful Cai Rang floating market which is considered as the largest floating market in South East Asia, there will be hundreds of boats laden with fruits, vegetable, and fish, jostling for trade. Drive back to Ho Chi Minh City with a lunch stop on the way.

(B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner)

NORTHWEST VIETNAM 10 DAYS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 27 Jun 2013 01:14:00 -0700

Overview

The northwestern part of Vietnam is one of the most interesting and beautiful areas of South East Asia. Vietnam is home to 54 ethnic groups and in the northwestern part of the country you'll see the lives and customs of some of the ethnic minorities. In this part of the country the minorities still dress in their traditional colorful clothing – especially the women. The Northwest Jeep tour includes a minority trek, overnight stay with some of the tribes and a jeep tour through some of the country’s most spectacular nature.

Day 1: Hanoi - Lao Cai.
Day 2: Lao Cai - Sapa.
Day 3: Sapa - Lao Chai - Ta Van.
Day 4: Ta Van - Giang Ta Chai - Ban Ho.
Day 5: Ban Ho - Sapa.
Day 6: Sapa - Lai Chau (178km).
Day 7: Lai Chau - Dien Bien Phu (130km).
Day 8: Dien Bien Phu - Son La (180km).
Day 9: Son La - Mai Chau (180km).
Day 10: Mai Chau - Hanoi (165 km).

Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi - Lao Cai
You will be picked up at 20:00 from your hotel and transferred to the train station. Here, you take a night train to Lao Cai. The night train leaves at 21:10. Overnight stay on train in a 4-berth soft sleeper cabin.

Day 2: Lao Cai - Sapa
The train arrives at Lao Cai train station early in the morning, at around 06:00. Pick-up and transport by shared bus to Sapa (35km - about 1 hour drive). In the morning, there will be some spare time to enjoy the fantastic view of the Sapa valley and explore the local market. In the afternoon the guide will provide with more information about the tour. After this we'll visit the Cat Cat village, where the Black H’mong people live. Overnight stay at o hotel in Sapa.

Day 3: Sapa - Lao Chai - Ta Van(B, L, D)
After breakfast, leaving the hotel and trekking to Lao Chai village to visit the Black H’mong people. From Lao Chai you'll continue to Ta Van village to visit the Zay people. Dining and sleeping in a local homestay in the Ta Van village.
Trekking distance: 15km

Day 4: Ta Van - Giang Ta Chai - Ban Ho(B, L, D)
Walking tour to Giang Ta Chai village to visit Red Dao people. The women of Red Dao have a very colorful red embroideries, coins on their clothing, and on their head they wear a red scarf. Some of the women have shaved off their eyebrows because a hairless face is considered, by the the Red Dao people, to be very beautiful. We then make our way to the waterfall in Giang Ta Chai. In the afternoon we'll make our way to Ban Ho, to visit the Tay people. If we arrive early there will be some spare time to go for a swim in the nearby river.
Trekking distance: 15km

Day 5: Ban Ho - Sapa (B)
After breakfast, trekking up to Su Pan hill (3km). Pick-up and transport back to Sapa. In the afternoon, there will be some spare time to experience the colorful Sapa market. Overnight stay at a hotel in Sapa.

Day 6: Sapa - Lai Chau (178km) (B)
In the morning driving in a car to Lai Chau. On the first part of the trip we will pass the beautiful Silver Waterfall Thac Bac and Tram Ton Pass (1900m). Later there will be a chance to visit Lao, Lu, Thai, Mang and Black Dao villages. Arrival in the afternoon to Lai Chau - one of the hottest places in Vietnam during the summer months. Overnight stay at a hotel in Lai Chau.

Day 7: Lai Chau - Dien Bien Phu (130km) (B)
Starting the day by driving to Dien Bien Phu. While driving, one can enjoy the spectacular view of the forested hills. Making several stops on the way to visit some of the minority villages (Kho Mu, Thai and H’mong). Arrival in the noon at Dien Bien Phu in the flat Muong Thanh Valley. Dien Bien Phu was the place, where the last battle between the forces of Ho Chi Minh’s Viet Minh army and the French(1954). In the afternoon visiting the Museum in Dien Bien Phu, which gives a better understanding of the Vietnamese history. Overnight stay at a hotel in Dien Bien Phu.

Day 8: Dien Bien Phu - Son La (180km)(B)
Leaving Dien Bien Phu and driving to Son La. The drive is beautiful, with high mountains, limestone rocks, gorges, rice fields and small villages. Before arriving in Son La the bus makes a stop in a small village, where there will be a chance to visit the Thai people. Overnight stay in Son La.

Day 9: Son La - Mai Chau (180km) (B)
Leaving the hotel at 08:00 in the morning for a short trek and visiting another Thai village. Arrival late in the afternoon at Lat village in Mai chau, where we'll spend the night at local homestay.

Day 10: Mai Chau - Hanoi (165 km) (B)
Leaving Mai Chau at 08:00 in the morning and heading for Hanoi. On the way to Hanoi we'll visit the Hoa Binh Hydro-Electric Power. Later in the afternoon we'll arrive in Hanoi, where the tour ends.

(B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner)

HOA LU - TAM COC

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 27 Jun 2013 00:52:00 -0700

Overview

Hoa Lu,100 kms in the south of Hanoi, which is the an ancient capital of Vietnam under the Dinh Dynasty between AD 968 and AD 980. Cominh to visit Hoa Lu, you can learn about some of the sanctuaries and tombs have completely remained intact through all the wars and the Vietnamese historical aspects.

Tam Coc, a fairy-tale Vietnamese version of Disneyland with dramatic, jagged limestone rocks jutting out of watery rice fields. Tam Coc means “Three grottoes”. These grottoes were made due to the transformation of geology, seawater and rainwater that have worn cliffs in a long period of millions of years. The three grottoes are situated on Ngo Dong River and are permeated by the water of this river, so they are also called the “Three Trans Grottoes”.

Tam Coc is also a place of astounding natural beauty with limestone peaks and you will understand why it is open refered to as Ha Long Bay on land . On this tour, you will travel through three beautiful caves and make for a truly unforgettable experience.

Itinerary

AM: Pick you up at your hotel or at Dan Viet Travel office from 08.00 to 8.15 Am and depart for Ninh Binh province. Transfer to Tam Coc and then get on the boat. From the boat you can enjoy over all picture of limestone mountains and quiet streams. Passing through 3 caves (Hang Ca, Hang Hai, Hang Ba), you will feel comfortable and interesting feeling with cool air in the area. Have lunch at local restaurant.

PM: Transfer to Hoa Lu, the ancient citadel of Vietnam in in 10th century. Visiting temples of two Kings: Dinh and Le, then walking up and down in the beautiful Truong Yen Valley to enjoy the marvelous sceneries. After visiting, you will get on the car and road trip return to Hanoi. Tour finished.

Reliving past in Hai Thai structures

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 21 Jun 2013 02:17:00 -0700

Nha Trang is endowed with many coastal attractions and Champa cultural sites, attracting a large volume of local and international tourists.

The old house sporting Gothic architecture in Nha Trang City.

Not as popular, though, are the old houses of local residents in Hai Thai.

From downtown Nha Trang City, along National Highway 1A heading to HCMC for about 20 kilometers, travelers can make a turn to Suoi Cat T-junction to reach Suoi Tien Commune which only has a few households. The road is surrounded by immense rice fields with magnificent mountains in the distance. Getting off the T junction and traveling for about four kilometers, tourists will see Hai Thai’s most famous ancient house.

The first impression on tourists must be the solid black wooden gate which is functioned as a guard for the white house behind. The house, built in 1925 in Gothic French architecture, boasts its old charm with its tiled roof created like fish scales.

It covers about 1,800 square meters and still maintains its many bronze antiques such as betel box, coins, bell, pots, plates, bows, typing machine and radio.

The right area of the house is a store of farming tools. There, tourists can see an old rice husking machine, rice basket, axes, ploughs and mattocks. On the left, it looks like an old office. Meanwhile, another room was dedicated as a bakery to make big dinners for the family and their guests.

Tucked in the endless greenness of the deserted mountainous region, the house arouses curiosity for passers-by who always feel a little shiver whenever they pass by it.

Around the house is a dense world of many ancient, large trees such as tamarind, jackfruit or star apple which are hundreds of years old.

Nearby the main house is a wooden house built in traditional Vietnamese architecture. The garden which is spread around the area sets the house in Hue garden-house style. It has 142 pillars.

A traditional Vietnamese wooden house has 142 wooden pillars.

Visitors should not ignore the fact that the house still has a number of artifacts reflecting local culture of the past. Tourists will have a chance to see old tools such as a sugarcane squeezer, rice grinding mortar and many ceramic Cham jars.

Behind the house are two rooms made of terracotta and three brick rooms which can accommodate overnight stays. The house also has a large room for 10 people at a cost of VND600,000 per night.

Many foreigners would like to stay at the house to sense the old atmosphere as well as to know more about local customs and living. There tourists can also go fishing and use their catch for a meal later.

Entrance tickets are priced at a mere VND30,000 per adult and VND20,000 per child.

Source: SGT

TRAVEL NEWS IN BRIEF 21/6

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 21 Jun 2013 02:13:00 -0700

Vietnam Air to start Danang-Seoul service next month

Vietnam Airlines will launch the air route connecting Danang and South Korea’s Seoul on July 1 with two flights per week on Mondays and Thursdays, according to the carrier’s Southern Region Branch.

Vietnam Airlines is currently offering promotional return tickets at VND5.67 million, exclusive of taxes and surcharges, for Danang-Seoul flights departing before December 31, said Nguyen Van Thinh, deputy head of the air carrier’s Southern Region Branch.

The carrier has since April opened the direct flight connecting Cam Ranh in Khanh Hoa Province with Moscow. This route is regarded as one of the potential ones amid the current tough competition on the international aviation market.

Thinh said Vietnam Airlines was aiming at air routes of huge growth potential.

“The aviation market is in fierce competition, especially for international routes, while no growth is recorded on the domestic market. As a result, we decided to open potential routes such as HCMC-Thanh Hoa and Nha Trang-Moscow as well as increase the frequencies of advantageous flights like the direct ones to Frankfurt and Paris,” Thinh said.

According to Thinh, with the advent of more international airlines in Vietnam, the price competition has become tougher as many airlines with good cash flows are selling tickets at low prices. Among international airlines, those coming from the Middle East are formidable opponents due to their great financial resources and new, big aircraft fleets.

Regarding the domestic market, Thinh said that the operation of domestic flights was not easy amid the current situation. Despite a growth of 10-12% per year in the past decade, the market did not grow last year and is forecast to remain gloomy this year. Therefore, airfares of domestic flights have also declined, he added.

Tourism industry targets RoK visitors

The Republic of Korea is one of Vietnam’s key tourism markets, with more than 700,000 visiting Vietnam last year alone, doubling the 2009 figure.

Vietnam’s tourism industry has responded by prioritising the RoK market in its development strategy for the 2011–2020 period.

Ha Long City and Ho Chi Minh City are especially favoured by RoK visitors thanks to their reasonable prices and renowned tourist destinations.

Ha Van Sieu, Head of the Institute for Tourism Development Research (ITDR), said RoK tourism’s high seasons are in January, July, and August.

Statistics show that from 2000–2005, the daily average spending of a RoK tourist in Vietnam was US$96.9—a little lower than that from Japan (US$99.4), but much higher than a US tourist (US$74.1).

The average RoK tourist’s spending has now jumped to US$527.9 if on a full package tour and US$259.9 if traveling independently.

The sudden surge in the number of RoK travelers to Vietnam shows Vietnamese services are able to satisfy their quality demands.

The Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT) said RoK visitors were attracted to Vietnam because the government has offered RoK citizens holding regular passports 15 day visa exemptions.

Vietnam and the RoK share many cultural similarities and the two countries’ ties, especially economically, have only multiplied. In October 2009, the two governments lifted the status of their relations to a strategic partnership.

Vietnam’s proximity to the RoK also makes travel easier and more convenient.

To lure more RoK tourists, the VNAT will coordinate with related agencies to offer tourism services tailored to the RoK people’s taste. It will also launch an official Korean language website promoting domestic tourism.

In addition to organising annual cultural and tourism events in the RoK itself, the tourism industry will survey the market to plan future promotions in both Vietnam and the RoK.

It will employ RoK citizens currently living in Vietnam to work as translators, managers, and administrators for domestic outbound tour operators.

Malaysia promotes tourism in HCM City

The Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board launched a marketing campaign in HCM City on June 20, in an effort to attract more Vietnamese visitors to its country.

“Visit Malaysia 2014 Roadshow” aims to promote cultural exchange and cooperation between Vietnamese and Malaysian businesses, with a particular focus on those operating travel and tourism services. They are expected to offer both countries’ businesses the chance to introduce tourism products, negotiate trade partnerships, and jointly organise seminars and trade fairs.

The event features many tour operators, travel agents, and hotels, including Vietnam’s Saigontourist, Viettravel, Fiditour, and Hanoi Tourist, and Malaysia’s Marine Discovery Holidays, Sunway Lagoon, and Ibis Styles KL Cheras.

The Board’s Director Mohd Akbal Setia said the ongoing events will help boost the two countries’ tourism cooperation and increase the number of tourists traveling between Vietnam and Malaysia.

The Roadshow introduced Vietnamese attendees to many enticing Malaysian services and destinations, a number of which are currently discounted.

Tourists claim VAT refunds worth $571,000 on purchases as they leave the country

As of May 2013, 11 months after a VAT refund progamme was launched, just 3,700 foreign tourists had availed themselves of VAT refunds worth VND12 billion (US$571,000) on their purchases as they left the country via Ha Noi's Noi Bai and HCM City's Tan Son Nhat international airports.

Under a pilot programme approved by the Prime Minister, foreign visitors and overseas Vietnamese are entitled to VAT refunds on purchases made in the country when they leave via the two major international airports.

In order to get the refund, receipts worth at least VND2 million ($100) apiece should be presented at the VAT refund counter at the airports. The pilot programme will end on June 30, 2014.

Da Nang offers adventure, paragliding, eating and drinking contests to attract more visitors

From June 28 to July 3, tourists to Da Nang will have an opportunity to take part in many fun activities including non-motorised paragliding, coracle rides in the sea, and eating and drinking contests.

The activities are part of the "Da Nang - Summer rendezvous" programme that will be held at the East Sea Park in Son Tra District.

The Da Nang Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism says the programme will also include South Korean artists performing music with kitchen appliances and an "art football festival" featuring athletes from six Asian countries.

Tourists can also participate in a 200m swimming race, a 2,000m running race, a coracle shaking competition, a marathon and eating and drinking contests.

Source: VOV/ND/SGGP/VNA/VNS

Tour vouchers: the cheapest is the dearest

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 20 Jun 2013 02:44:00 -0700

While tour vouchers have become too familiar to travelers in developed countries, they still have been refused by Vietnamese travelers, who believe that the cheapest is the dearest.

Tour vouchers have not been favored in Vietnam, despite their great advantages. Being considered a kind of pre-paid card, the biggest advantage of vouchers is that they allow travelers to enjoy good services, stay at high quality rooms, though they only pay 50 percent of the quoted tour fees or 70 percent of the prices quoted by travel agents.

Vouchers are hoped by travel firms to help promote tourism, because the offered low costs would attract more buyers. However, the unprofessional way of providing services has made travelers turn their back to vouchers.

Pham Thanh Thuy in Bach Dang Ward of Hai Ba Trung district complained that she has experienced terrible days during a recent tour.

Two weeks ago, Thuy bought 3 vouchers for the two-night stay at a 3-star hotel in Hoi An ancient town, which cost VND1.35 million per night. She was told that this would be a high grade large room with the view into the beach.

However, only when Thuy and her family members came to the hotel, did she realize that the room she booked was a standard room with small area with no view into the beach.

Thuy decided to make complaints to the manager of the hotel and she was explained that under the contracts signed between the hotel and the firms that provide vouchers to clients, the hotel only provides standard rooms.

And Thuy was told that if she wanted better rooms, she would have to pay an extra sum of VND500,000 per night.

“I think there is a discrimination in the treatment to the clients who use vouchers and the other normal travelers,” Thuy complained. “I had to wait two hours to get my room, while it took me much time to explain to the receptionist and the hotel’s workers.”

“The lesson I have learnt is that one should not use travel vouchers, because most of the service providers just “cry wine and sell vinegar,”” she said.

Bui The Anh, a worker of a civil engineering firm, also said he has “tasted bitterness” when buying vouchers for a tour to Mui Ne last May holiday.

When Anh came to the hotel where he booked rooms, he was told that the hotel ran out of rooms. The receptionist promised to arrange rooms for him at another hotel, advertising that this was a good hotel with good service quality.

However, he could not receive the good quality as promised. Finally, Anh decided to pay extra money to get a better room, because he did not want to spend time arguing with the service providers.

According to Anh, in fact, the preferences promised by the voucher suppliers are only applied in low sale season, when the number of travelers decreases. Especially, the hotels where voucher travelers stay are mostly the less prestigious ones, with low quality of services, or the hotels located far from the center.

“You think you can save money when you use vouchers. But in fact, your tours would be even dearer, because you would have to pay more money to hotels,” Anh said.

An Ninh Thu Do

Close-up to 120-year-old Huynh Thuy Le house in Can Tho

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 20 Jun 2013 02:39:00 -0700

Nearly 30 years ago the French film director Jean Jacques Annaud went to the Mekong Delta Province of Dong Thap to shoot scenes for his film "The Lover." He was seduced by the beauty of the ancient house of Huynh Thuy Le, and decided that it would form a part of his movie.

Many people saw the house in the film – which featured Jane March and Tony Leung Ka-fai as a French girl and a Chinese man who fell in love in 1920s Vietnam – and have made the journey to Dong Thap to visit it.

The house is located in Nguyen Hue Road, Sa Dec Town, Dong Thap Province, with East -West architecture. While the outside appearance of the building is a French design, the interior is totally Vietnamese.

The centerpiece of the house is a large ancestral altar, which is lacquered in red and trimmed with gold.

The house's biggest surprise however is its treasure trove of ancient objects that have been preserved for generations. There is a round marble table dating back to the 18th century, a couple of 19th century hanging lamps, and a set of French table and chairs from the 17th-century reign of Louis XIV.

The house is also equipped with beautiful ancient wooden furniture, and everything from the wash basin to the jars in the kitchen are valuable antiques.

According to Ngo Thi Ngoc Lien, the old woman charged with looking after the house and receiving visitors, many collectors regularly come to ask the family to sell the ancient objects. Their request has always been refused, even during times when the life of the owner's family was very difficult.

The 300sq.m house has witnessed the rise and fall of her family through Vietnam's turbulent history. It was built in 1895 by a family named Duong, who first arrived in the southern region by the late 19th century.

The actual owner of the house is Duong Chan Hien, the grandson of Duong Chan Ky, a landlord who was a developer in the 20th century. According to Lien, when French colonialists occupied the region they forced her family to leave the house, and soldiers lived in the building during those years.

The house has now become a place of worship for the Duong family. During festive days and anniversaries of family members death, the children and grandchildren gather together to commemorate their ancestors and organize big celebratory parties. Except on those special days, the house is open to visitors for the whole year.

Lien said that she has welcomed tourists from many different countries, a lot of them drawn to the house by The Lover.

Lien explains that Duong Van Ngon (1905-85), from the fifth generation of the Duong family, loved orchids. He tried to collect various kinds along with other flowers. His descendants have cared well for the garden, which includes a 40-year-old 10-meter cactus.

Inspired by the success of the location in that film, numerous local directors have chosen to shoot their movies in Binh Thuy. It has starred in Chan Troi Noi Ay (The Distant Horizon), Nhung Neo Duong Phu Sa (The Silt Ways), and Cay Tre Tram Dot (the Hundred-Knot Bamboo Tree).

Thanks to its antique beauty, it has been recognized as a national relic for architectural arts by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism since March 2009. This new recognition has made the house even more attractive to visitors.

The provincial government and descendants of the owner are trying to keep the house protected while also publicizing it all over the country.

The house was built in 1895 and repaired in 1917.

The altar of Guan Yu.

The tiles were imported from France.

Photos from the film L'amant (The Lover) signed by director Jean-Jacques Annaud and writer Marguerite Duras.

Photo: Linh Pham
Source: Vietnamnet

Mai Chau among top 10 awesome cultural tours

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 20 Jun 2013 02:32:00 -0700

Mai Chau, located in northern Hoa Binh Province, has been included in the US-based Business Insider’s top 10 incredible places for cultural tours.

The magazine described Mai Chau as a wonderful destination if visitors are interested in a deeper experience of Vietnam with a warm and welcoming population and unspoiled natural beauty.

Tourists can hike the mountains of Sa Pa in the north or sand-surf in the province’s central resort town of Mui Ne.

But Mai Chau in Hoa Binh Province can be a good choice.

Just three hours outside of the capital Hanoi, Mai Chau is a mountainous region dotted with traditional stilt houses. Two ethnic minority groups—the White Thai and Black Thai—make up the majority of the population, Business Insider reported.

The magazine suggested the best way to immerse yourself in the region is through a homestay with local families. It said visitors can spend two days cycling across mountain trails and through rice fields, visit local villages, and watch a cultural performance by Thai villagers.

Other destinations recommended by Business Insider’s list include Santiago in Chile, Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, Marrakech in Morocco, Shanghai in China, Trani in Italy, Budapest in Hungary, Lisbon in Portugal, Bordeaux in France, and Old Delhi in India.

Source: VOV

Being overcharged, having pockets picked, foreign travelers won’t return to VN

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 20 Jun 2013 02:30:00 -0700

If Vietnam cannot eliminate pickpockets and stop the overcharging, it would fail to receive 7.2 million foreign travelers in 2013 as planned.

According to the General Statistics Office, in the first four months of 2013, Vietnam received 2.4 million travelers, a decrease of 5.3 percent from the same period of the last year.

In the last five years, 80-85 percent polled travelers said they don’t intend to return to Vietnam for the second and subsequent times. The 2012 survey of TripAdvisor showed that Hanoi was among the 10 cheapest tourist cities in the world this summer. 4.4 million foreign travelers arrived in Hanoi just within the first six months of 2012, but 70 percent of them don’t want to come back.

Vietnam has been put among the countries which can hope to see the highest tourism growth rates in the world. The US TOA has put Vietnam on the second position among the newly emerging destinations for foreign tourists in 2013. However, the number of foreign travelers to Vietnam remains too modest if compared with its great potentials.

On May 10, 2013, a group of French tourists arrived at the Tan Son Nhat Airport in HCM City after taking a long flight from Paris. After completing the check-in procedures at the airport, 33 French tourists came to a foreign exchange kiosk nearby to convert euro into dong to be spent during their stay in Vietnam. After that, the tourists were led to a sightseeing trip in HCM City.

When the tourists came to the Notre Dame and the city’s Post Office, the tour guide told the tourists that they could convert euro into dong to buy postcards to send to France, the tourists were exceedingly astonished when realizing that they were cheated when exchanging money at the airport.

“When I informed them that 10 euro could be converted into VND2.7 million, a lot of tourists felt displeased, because they could get VND2.07 million at the airport. This means that the service provided could pocket VND630,000 for every 100 euro from the service,” said Tran Thi Kim Hong, a tour guide from Indochina travel firm.

Mene Patrick, head of the group of tourists, decided to stop the sightseeing and come back to the Tan Son Nhat airport with the whole group to clarify the matter.

Finally, the French tourists got their money back and continued their trip as planned. The tour guide was given a sum of money in return for her keeping silent. However, Hong, refusing the sum of money, said to the officers at the foreign exchange kiosk that they should feel ashamed because their behaviors might tarnish the image of Vietnamese tourism.

Tran Dang Khoa, a well-known blogger, has called the behavior of overcharging and cheating travelers as a “national humiliation,” calling to impose punishment on the cheaters to polish the image of Vietnam and Vietnamese tourism.

“In Vietnam, you may have to pay money just for a seat at a restaurant, and at the exorbitant high price. The charging is a barbarian behavior which can easily and effectively kill the tourism industry,” he wrote.

“When someone is caught red handed conducting his illegal behavior, he would offer apology to people and give them back money. But this is not enough to keep the tourism healthy,” he continued.

(vietnamnet) - Duy Anh

Tourism police to protect foreigners

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 20 Jun 2013 02:27:00 -0700

The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism has been asked by its department in Ha Noi to establish a tourism police force dedicated to protecting visitors who are increasingly suffering from tourist scams in the capital.

A street vendor tries to force a foreign tourist to buy souvenir in Ha Noi. The city authorities are considering setting up a tourism police force to protect tourists from being overcharged and harrashed by street vendors.

Cases are reported daily of foreign tourists being overcharged by taxi drivers and cheated by hotel employees. This has negatively affected the image of both the city and the country in the eyes of international visitors, said the department's deputy director Mai Tien Dung.

A crackdown on security management has been conducted in hotels, hostels and resorts, Dung said, adding that despite this, inspections could only go so far to solve the problems in the absence of specific regulations.

His department has proposed that as well as forming a special police force, other measures should be implemented. They suggested that crimes against tourists, such as overcharging, stealing and harassment from peddlers should be met with heavy fines.

Colonel Dao Duy Ngoc, deputy director of the city's police department, agreed with the proposal for the creation of a tourism police force. "This is a good idea. We will set up the force as soon as it is approved by a higher authority".

While the establishment of the force is considered an effective measure to tackle crime in the tourism sector, some people have argued that it has limitations.

Such issues arouse partly due to the lack of authorities' sufficient management in tourism. Major-General Le Van Cuong, former director of the Institute of Strategy and Science under the Ministry of Public Service, said that the force alone would not solve all the problems.

"The tourism industry should firstly analyse its strength and weakness. Only then will it know if co-operation from other authorities is necessary," he said.

"Another important measure is to raise people's awareness so that tourist businesses are fully conscious of the risks that their customers face and potential scammers know that their behaviour is unacceptable," he pointed out.

"However, if the police are needed whenever a problem occurs, then we will definitely set up a specific police force in the future," he added.

Source: VNS

HONEYMOON TO VIETNAM 14 DAYS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 20 Jun 2013 02:16:00 -0700

Overview

Vietnam - a beautiful country in Southeast Asia where there are so many attractions for you to choose. From the North to the South, you can relax, discover, go shopping or do whatever you want for your honeymoon. Just enjoy your happy time beside your honey in these places!

Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi arrival. (D)
Arriving Noi Bai airport, our guide will welcome you and transfer to your hotels. Afternoon at leisure. In the evening, see the world-famous Vietnamese Water Puppet show in the theatre and dinner at local restaurant.

Day 2: Hanoi. (B, L)
Full day Hanoi city tour includes Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum (closed on Monday, Friday and the whole October-November) and Residence, One-Pillar Pagoda, Army Museum. Lunch at local restaurant. Visit Temple of Literature, built in the 11th century as Vietnam’s first university, Fine Art Museum, Quan Thanh Temple, Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple in the Old Quarter of Hanoi.

Day 3: Hanoi - Halong Bay. (B, D)
Morning at leisure. Afternoon about 3 to 4 hours drive to Ha Long Bay. Upon arrival transfer to hotel. Dinner at local restaurant.

Day 4: Halong Bay Cruise - Cat Ba. (B, L, D)
A morning cruise in a private junk on the emerald green water of Halong Bay, among the 3,000 spectacular limestone islands. The cruise ends with a fresh seafood lunch on board and then sail to Cat Ba Island, the largest in the bay, and transfer to a hotel. Afternoon tour includes Cat Ba's national park and the famous Cat Ba Hospital Cave used during the American War. The evening is spent in one of the many fine local restaurants on the island.

Day 5: Cat Ba – Hanoi. (B, L)
Morning at leisure on Cat Ba Island. Afternoon by hydrofoil to Haiphong & drive back to Hanoi & transfer to hotel.

Day 6: Hanoi – Hue. (B, L, D)
Transfer to airport for your flight to Hue. Arriving in Hue, pick up & transfer to your hotel. Today our city tour includes the mausoleum of former emperor Minh Mang, in a tranquil setting of gardens and lakes. In the afternoon visit the elaborate mausoleums of emperors Tu Duc and Khai Dinh and the Imperial Citadel from where the Nguyen Dynasty ruled between 1802 and 1945.

Day 7: Hue - Hoi An. (B, L)
This morning's tour starts with a boat trip on the romantically named Perfume River to visit Hue's best-known religious site, Thien Mu Pagoda. Afterwards drive to Hoi An via Danang. The scenic route climbs over the Pass of Ocean Clouds before dropping down to the wonderfully photogenic fishing village of Lang Co. After lunch in Danang and city tour, on the road from Danang to Hoi An visit five sacred hills known as the Marble Mountains containing dozens of Buddhist shrines. On arrival in Hoi An in late afternoon, transfer to hotel.

Day 8: Hoi An. (B, L)
Hoi An was a major Asian trading port in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries and its picturesque architecture and relaxed lifestyle has changed little over the years. Take a walking tour of the ancient town centre to visit former merchants' houses, the 400 year-old Japanese Covered Bridge and the colourful market. Afternoon trip to visit the capital and religious centre of the former Champa Kingdom, My Son. Here, 40km southwest of Hoi An, in a lush green valley, are dozens of red brick towers and sanctuaries dating from between the seventh and thirteenth centuries.

Day 9: Hoi An. (B, L)
This morning we take a 2-3 hour boat cruise along the river with visit to local village. Afternoon at leisure to wander in this lovely ancient town full of old Chinese houses, temples and markets.

Day 10: Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City. (B, D)
Morning at leisure. Drive back to Danang & transfer to airport for your afternoon flght to Ho Chi Minh City, pick up and transfer to your hotel. Evening dinner at local restaarant.

Day 11: Ho Chi Minh City. (B, L)
Full day city tour includes a tour of The Reunification Palace (former Presidential Palace), Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral, Lam Son Square, Ben Thanh Market, Thien Hau pagoda, The Museum of HCM Campaign, China Town (Cho Lon) & Binh Tay Market etc.

Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City - Tay Ninh - Cu Chi - Ho Chi Minh City. (B, L)
Enjoy a morning drive through typical southern Vietnamese countryside to Tay Ninh Province in the west of Vietnam. At Tay Ninh visit the incredible Cao Dai Great Temple, with architecture that could have come straight from a Walt Disney fantasy and where all the major faiths of the world blend together in a unique religious cocktail. In the afternoon visit the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground tunnel network constructed by Vietnamese resistance fighters during the long struggle for independence.

Day 13: Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta - Ho Chi Minh City. (B, L)
A full day trip to the watery world of the Mekong Delta, just a couple of hours by road from the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City's streets. Depart for Vinh Long -150km southwest Ho Chi Minh City. A motor-boat takes you along the Mekong river and follows small canals flowing sluggishly between banks of luxuriant vegetation to Cai Be floating market, one of the most typical floating markets of the Mekong Delta. Experience the exotic sights, sounds and smells. Lunch at a bonsai garden with special food - "Elephant's Ear" fish. After lunch, we visit a tofu and fish sauce factory etc before return to Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 14: Ho Chi Minh City - Departure. (B)
At leisure until transfer to airport for your return flight back home.

(B: breakfast, L: lunch, D: dinner)

HONEYMOON HOLIDAY 7 DAYS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 20 Jun 2013 02:11:00 -0700

Overview

For us, your honeymoon is so important that our team of honeymoon experts will help you to make your honeymoon as romantic and as memorable as can be. Selecting Vietnam as your honeymoon country, you will enjoy the ultimate honeymoon destinations, luxurious accommodations, romantic beaches, authentic restaurants and exciting activities.

Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival (D)
On arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, our tour guide will greet and transfer you by private car through the city to your hotel in Hanoi center. In the afternoon, enjoy walking tour in the Old Quarter and see a famous show of the water puppet. Later then, our tour guide hosts welcome celebration dinner at local restaurant with authentic Vietnamese cuisines. Stay overnight at a hotel in Hanoi.

Day 2: Hanoi - Halong Bay (B, L, D)
Today, get up early for morning Tai Chi with local people at Hoan Kiem Lake, then have "Pho" the typical breakfast for Vietnamese people. Leaving Hanoi by road for Halong Bay, the world natural heritage site, enjoy leisure drive though the rural area with scenic view of rice paddy field in the Red River Delta. You may be lucky enough to see cows or pigs on motor bike or Vietnamese kids ridding on water buffalo flying kites. On the way we will stop at Vietnam Handicraft Center for refreshment. Upon arrival in Halong City, check in Vietnamese cruise and journey along the spectacular limestone islands, floating villages while having sea food lunch, then disembark to visit 'Sung Sot' or Surprising Cave, one of the most beautiful grottoes in Halong Bay. Continue to cruise to Titop Island where you could swim or climb up to the top for panoramic view. In the evening, You will be delighted by candle light dinner on board with sea food. Stay overnight on board in Halong Bay.

Day 3: Halong Bay - Hanoi (B, L)
A breakfast will be served in the restaurant with the combination of western style and local dishes. Experience the Bay up close and personal with a leisure sampan tour to Hang Luon or Lagoon Cave which allows you to see flora and fauna system of Cat Ba National Park, then continue to Halong City. Disembark and go to local restaurant for seafood lunch. In the afternoon, go back to Hanoi. On the way, stop at Dong Trieu Ceramic Village. The evening is free at leisure. Stay overnight at a hotel in Hanoi

Day 4: Hanoi - Nha Trang (B)
In the morning, we transfer you to Noi Bai Airport for the morning flight to Nha Trang. In the afternoon, visit the Ponagar Tower, being considered the most beautiful reminder of Cham architecture, then the Pasteur Institute. Later on visit the impressive Long Son Pagoda, Oceanographic Institute and admire the beautiful view of Nha Trang coastline from the Hon Chong Rock. Stay overnight at hotel in Nha Trang

Day 5: Nha Trang (B)
Today, after breakfast at your hotel, enjoy private boat trip in Nha Trang Bay to Tri Nguyen Aquarium, Mot Island and Mun Island. In the afternoon, visit Bai Tranh Beach and take boat back to mainland. Stay overnight at a hotel in Nha Trang

Day 6: Nha Trang - Ho Chi Minh City (B, D)
After breakfast in the hotel, you will be picked up and transferred to Cam Ranh Airport. From here, you take 1 hour morning flight to Ho Chi Minh City. On arrival, our tour guide will pick you up and transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, you will have time to enjoy the oriental tour to the War Remnants Museum, Reunification Hall and Ben Thanh Market. In the evening, your tour guide hosts a lavish farewell celebration dinner at Vietnamese restaurant. Stay overnight at a hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 7: Ho Chi Minh City Departure ( B )
Free time until we pick you up and transfer to Tan Son Nhat airport for departure.
End of the trip.

(B: breakfast, L: lunch, D: dinner)

HA LONG CRUISES - BAI THO JUNK CRUISE 3 DAYS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 21:31:00 -0700

Overview

It’s so wonderful to spend a night stay Bai Tho Overnight Cruises on Ha Long Bay. We always make you pleasant, relaxed and satisfied. With all modern facilities and warmly atmosphere, we are already ready to welcome you to Bai Tho to discover Ha Long.

Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi - Halong Bay (L, D)
08.00: Transfer from Hanoi to Halong Bay. (not included)
11.30 – 12.15: Arriving at Hon Gai harbor.
12.15 - 12.30: Transfer to Bai Tho junk. Welcome drink - Cruise briefing, safety instructions, check-in cabins - Start cruising.
13.00 – 14.30: Enjoy local sea food lunch while the junk sails to Ha Long Bay passing by Thien Cung cave, Dau Go grotto, Fighting cock islet.
15.00 – 16.00: Visit Sung Sot cave - Explore the most famous grotto in entire Halong Bay.
16.30 – 17.30: Visit Titop beach – It’s time for relaxing, swimming or kayaking…
18.00: Overnight anchorage at Titop area and enjoy sunset.
19.30 – 21.00: Savor a Set-dinner in dinning room.
21.00: Activities: Relax on deck, drink service, singing karaoke or fishing. Overnight on junk.

Day 2: Halong Bay Cruise (B, L, D)
06.30: Enjoy sunrise over the Bay
07.00: Have breakfast
08.30 – 09.30: Transfer to day boat and cruise through Ha long Bay, come to visit Soisim beach and climb the mountain ,discover the charming beauty of the beach.
09.30 – 12.00: It’s time for relaxing and swimming or kayaking weather and tide permitted.
12.00 – 13.30: Return to the junk and enjoy the sea food lunch. Continue cruising through Halong bay.
13.30 – 16.30: Come to visit Dark/Light cave, swimming or kayaking in here.
17:00 Back to the junk, Anchorage for overnight.
19.30 – 21.00: Savor a Set-dinner in dinning room.

Day 3: Halong Bay - Hanoi (BR)
06.30: Enjoy sunrise over the Bay
07.00: Have breakfast
08.00 – 08.30: Cruise through Ha long Bay and contemplate Man’s head islet, Tortoise islet
08.30 – 09.30: Arrive at Luon Cave (Hang Luồn) – explore most famous grotto in the entire Halong bay by local rowing boat – Enjoy kayaking activities (weather permitting).
09.30: Check-out cabins and settle bills – Luggage collection.
10.00: Having international buffet brunch served while cruising through Bai Tu Long bay, Bai Tho mountain and Ha Long market.
11.00: Arriving at pier. Time to say goodbye.
Transfer from Halong to Hanoi. (not included)

HA LONG CRUISE - BAI THO JUNK CRUISE 2 DAYS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 21:27:00 -0700

Overview

Welcome on board of Bai Tho Junk and set sail through the bay while lunch is served. Passage into the magical bay, where thousands of sculpted limestone islands rise from the waves like dragons' teeth.

Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi - Halong Bay (L, D)
08.00: Transfer from Hanoi to Halong Bay. (not included)
11.30 – 12.15: Arriving at Hon Gai harbor.
12.15 – 12.30: Transfer to tender. Welcome drink - Cruise briefing, safety instructions, Check-in cabins - Start cruising
13.00 – 14.30: Enjoy local sea food lunch while the junk sails to Ha Long Bay passing by Thien Cung cave, Dau Go grotto, Fighting cock islet.
15.00 – 16.00: Visit Sung Sot cave - Explore the most famous grotto in entire Halong Bay.
16.30 – 17.30: Visit Titop beach – It’s time for relaxing, swimming or kayaking…
18.00: Overnight anchorage near Titop and enjoy the sunset.
19.30 – 21.00: Savor our Set-dinner in dinning room.
21.00 – 23.00: Activities: Relax on deck, drink service, singing karaoke or fishing.
Overnight on Bai Tho junk.

Day 2: Halong Bay - Hanoi. (BR)
06:30: Enjoy sunrise over the Bay.
07:00: Have breakfast.
08:00 – 08:30: Cruise through Ha long Bay and contemplate Man’s head islet, Tortoise islet.
08:30 – 09:30: Arrive at Luon Cave (Hang Luon) – explore most famous grottoes in the entire Halong bay by local rowing boat – Enjoy kayaking activities (weather permitted).
09:30: Check-out cabins and settle bills – Luggage collection. Having international buffet brunch served while cruising through. Bai Tu Long bay, Bai Tho mountain and Ha Long market.
11:00: Arriving at pier. Time to say goodbye.
Transfer from Halong Bay to Hanoi. (not included)

(BR: breakfast & lunch combination, L: lunch, D: dinner)

HA LONG CRUISES - HUONG HAI JUNK 3 DAYS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 21:22:00 -0700

Overview

Scenic Halong Bay, with its emerald seas, rests beautifully over the Red River Delta. This region, "the Bay of the Descending Dragon", is dotted with more than 3,000 mountainous islands, each with its own unique landscape. The islands are famous for their dolomite and limestone rock formations, many of which have been given names.

Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi - Ha Long (L, D)
Depart Hanoi to Ha Long Bay by road through the rich farmlands of the Red River Delta and the scenery of rice fields (harvest time: 5th month and 10th month of Lunar New Year), water buffaloes and everyday Vietnamese village life on both side of the highway No.18.

12.15 pm: Arrive in Ha Long city, board our traditional wooden junk boat, Huong Hai Junk, for an overnight journey. Sip on a refreshing welcome drink upon check in before you begin your cruise through the bay.
01.00 pm: Feast on a delicious lunch as you cruise among hundreds of islets (Tea pot islet, Yen Ngua islet, Little Dog islet, Man’s Head islet, Tortoise islet etc.) to discover unspoilt pockets of Halong Bay and visit Sung Sot - Amazing cave, one of the most imposing grottoes of the Bay. Swim at Soi Sim beach or Titov beach or a short trek to the top of Titov mountain for a magnificent panorama scenery.
5.30pm: Relax and enjoy sunset. Fresh fruit and candy serve at lounge or sundeck.
7.30pm: Enjoy your dinner with fresh seafood on board.
9.00pm: Squid fishing or relax and chatting with your partner, friends, family.
Overnight on Ha Long Bay aboard Huong Hai Junk.

For those who book transfer option: A private car or Huong Hai shuttle bus will pick you up at your hotel from 7.45am - 8.30am and transfer you to Ha Long city.
For those who book kayaking option: After visiting Amazing cave, you can go kayaking from Soi Sim beach to Luon Cave to enjoy the quiet atmosphere of the bay (or from Bo Nau cave, to Soi Sim beach to TiTov)

Summary:
Visit: Amazing Cave, Soi Sim or Titov Beach, Ga Choi, Dinh Huong islet, etc.
Meals: Lunch and Dinner on board.
Accommodation: Double or Twin sharing cabin. (Single cabin upon request)
Transfer option from Hanoi to Halong city: 3.5 hrs
Kayaking option: 45 minutes - 1 hour

Day 2: Ha Long Bay discovery. (B, L, D)
7.00am: Sunrise breakfast with tea, coffee and breakfast are served.
8.30am: Transfer by tender to the “Day Boat” and begin to cruise to some of Halong Bay’s most untouched locales (Cua Van fishing village, Doi Cave or Ho Ba Ham area, Three Peaches Beach). Exact locations depend on tide and weather conditions. Enjoy a leisurely day of kayaking and swimming. A multi-course lunch will be served mid-day. Pack lightly; swimwear and set of dry clothes and there may be some walking through shallow water and on slippery rocks so appropriate shoes for this (you may bring the sandals provided in your cabins).
4.00 pm: Back to mother boat at afternoon.

7.30 pm: Enjoy your dinner on board.
9.00 pm: Squid fishing or relax and chatting with your partner, friends, family.
Overnight on Ha Long Bay aboard Huong Hai Junk.

Summary:
Visit: Cua Van fishing village and Doi cave or the Three Peaches Beach or Ho Ba Ham area.
Kayaking: around 01 hour and 30 minutes.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner on board.
Accommodation: Double or Twin sharing cabin. (Single cabin upon request)

Day 3: Halong Bay – Hanoi (BR)
7.00 am: For early riser complimentary tea, coffee, fruit and cake are served.
8.00 am: Visit Luon cave on small bamboo boat paddle by out crew staff and enjoy the quiet atmosphere enclosed by high islets and mountains. Be back to our Huong Hai Junk. Sail past rock formations such as Finger islet, Ga Choi – Fighting Cock islet and Hoa Cuong fishing village. Enjoy the tranquil scenery as the boat meanders its way through the bay on the way back to Ha Long city, etc.
9.00 am: Arrange your luggage and do the check out onboard.
10.15 am: Enjoy a wholesome brunch as your boat weaves through strange-shaped limestone rock formations.

11.30 am: Arrive back at Ha Long city for disembarkation where your driver waits to take you back to your Hanoi. Trip ends.
Transfer option by shuttle bus or private car: Arrive Hanoi city at around 4.00pm

Summary:
Visit: Luon Cave, Finger islet, Ga Choi – Fighting Cock islet, etc.
Cruising: 3hrs
Transfer option from Ha Long to Hanoi city: 3.5hrs
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch on board.

(B: breakfast, BR: brunch, L: lunch, D: dinner)

HALONG CRUISES - HUONG HAI JUNK 2 DAYS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 20:59:00 -0700

Overview

Cruising Halong Bay by boat is the best way for those who want to learn as much as possible of the spectacular World Heritage site. One itinerary gorgeous with most of these karsts small islands xinh beautiful, comfortable and seafood dish very delicious with champagne serve on the ships will make sure unforgettable experience of you.

In this 2-day tour with Huong Hai Junk, you will have time to admire the majestic beauty of Halong Bay and spent a romantic night on the ship.

Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi - Ha Long (L, D)
Depart Hanoi to Ha Long Bay by road through the rich farmlands of the Red River Delta and the scenery of rice fields (harvest time: 5th month and 10th month of Lunar New Year), water buffaloes and everyday Vietnamese village life on both side of the highway No.18.

12.15 pm: Arrive in Ha Long city, board our traditional wooden junk boat, Huong Hai Junk, for an overnight journey. Sip on a refreshing welcome drink upon check in before you begin your cruise through the bay.
1.00 pm: Feast on a delicious lunch as you cruise among hundreds of islets (Tea pot islet, Yen Ngua islet, Little Dog islet, Man’s Head islet, Tortoise islet etc.) to discover unspoilt pockets of Halong Bay and visit Sung Sot - Amazing cave, one of the most imposing grottoes of the Bay. Swim at Soi Sim beach or Titov beach or a short trek to the top of Titov mountain for a magnificent panorama scenery.

5.30pm: Relax and enjoy sunset Fresh fruit and candy serve at lounge or sundeck.
7.00 pm: Enjoy your dinner with fresh seafood on board.
9.00pm: Squid fishing or relax and chatting with your partner, friends, family.
Overnight on Ha Long Bay aboard Huong Hai Junk.

For those who book transfer option:
A private car or Huong Hai shuttle bus will pick you up at your hotel from 7.45am - 8.30am and transfer you to Ha Long city.
For those who book kayaking option:
After visiting Amazing cave, you can go kayaking from Soi Sim beach to Luon Cave to enjoy the quiet atmosphere of the bay (or from Bo Nau cave, to Soi Sim beach to TiTov)

Summary:
Visit: Amazing Cave, Soi Sim or Titov Beach, Ga Choi, Dinh Huong islet, etc.
Meals: Lunch and Dinner on board.
Accommodation: Double or Twin sharing cabin. (Single cabin upon request)
Transfer option from Hanoi to Halong city: 3.5 hrs
Kayaking option: 45 minutes - 1 hour

Day 2: Halong Bay - Hanoi. (BR)
7.00am: For early risers complimentary tea, coffee, fruit and cake are served.
8.00am: Visit Luon cave on small bamboo boat paddle by out crew staff and enjoy the quiet atmosphere enclosed by high islets and mountains. Be back to our Huong Hai Junk. Sail past rock formations such as Finger islet, Ga Choi – Fighting Cock islet and Hoa Cuong fishing village. Enjoy the tranquil scenery as the boat meanders its way through the bay on the way back to Ha Long city, etc.
9.00 am: Arrange your luggage and do the check out onboard.
10.15am: Enjoy a wholesome brunch as your boat weaves through strange-shaped limestone rock formations.

11.45am: Arrive back at Ha Long city for disembarkation where your driver waits to take you back to your Hanoi. Trip ends.
Transfer option by shuttle bus or private car: Arrive Hanoi city at around 4.00pm

Summary:
Visit: Luon Cave, Finger islet, Ga Choi – Fighting Cock islet, etc.
Cruising: 3hrs
Transfer option from Ha Long to Hanoi city: 3.5hrs
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch on board.

(BR: brunch, L: lunch, D: dinner)

GINGER CRUISE 3 DAYS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 20:12:00 -0700

Overview

Seeing Halong Bay with Ginger, you will feel warmth, comfort and elegance in each uniquely designed cabin by local designer, Asian décor.

Highlight:

Enjoy swimming on quiet beaches, visiting water tunnels, fishing villages or kayaking in the crystal of waters of Ha Long Bay in the wooden junk that combines classic beauty with modern comfort
Visit Cua Van fishing village.
Try cooking Spring roll and many more Vietnamese specialties in Ginger
Full day kayaking in the untouched area of Bai Tu Long Bay

Good for:

Couples, honeymooners, friends, expats and Vietnamese
Those on a luxury Halong Bay holiday and wish to experience Halong Bay in style.

Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi - Halong (L, D)
Pickup at your hotel about 8.30 and transfer to Halong Bay. (not included)
Spend 3 hour sight seeing country Vietnam on the way to Halong city.
Arrive at Pier just before 12.00 AM. Welcome on board of Halong Ginger and set sail through bay while lunch is served. Passage into the magical bay, where thousands of sculpted limestone islands rise from the waves like dragons’ teeth.
After lunch, take a short trek to a nearby summit for a panoramic view of the bay dotted with Halong Ginger golden sails, go swimming on a quite beach or sunbathing on the sundeck.
Later afternoon, visit an interesting fishing village with opportunity to interact with fishermen who have been living in the bay for almost three generations.
At sunset time, kayak or simply take a bamboo row boat to discover a water tunnel with many coral reefs in a scenic lagoon.
Back on board Halong Ginger, enjoy cocktails while watching sunset and later unwind at Ginger restaurant.

Day 2: Halong Bay Cruise (B, L, D)
After breakfast, transfer to your day – trip boat with private crew and cruise to the bay’s most untouched areas.
Enjoy swimming on quiet beaches, visiting water tunnels, fishing villages or kayaking.
Lunch served on board by your private chef.
Return to the mother boat - Halong Ginger for the night

Day 3: Halong – Hanoi (BR)
Greet the day with a morning Tai Chi exercise with an opportunity to view the sunrise over the bay. Then coffee or tea is served. Visit Sung Sot a beautiful limestone grotto.
Buffet brunch is served in Ginger Cruise while enjoy last glimpse of the Halong Bay on the way cruising back to the dock.
Transfer from Halong to Hanoi. (not included)
Arrive at your hotel at 04.00 PM.

(B: breakfast, BR: brunch, L: lunch, D: dinner

GINGER CRUISE 2 DAYS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 19:04:00 -0700

Overview

Highlight:

Enjoy swimming on quiet beaches, visiting water tunnels, fishing villages or kayaking in the crystal of waters of Ha Long Bay in the wooden junk that combines classic beauty with modern comfort
Visit Cua Van fishing village.
Try cooking Spring roll and many more Vietnamese specialities in Ginger
Full day kayaking in the untouched area of Bai Tu Long Bay

Good for:

Couples, honeymooners, friends, expats and Vietnamese
Those on a luxury Vietnam holiday and wish to experience Halong Bay in style.

Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi - Halong Bay (L, D)
08.30: Pick up from your hotel and transfer to Halong Bay. (not included)
Spend 3 hour sight seeing country Vietnam on the way to Halong city. Arrive at Pier just before 12.00 AM.
12.15: Welcome on board of Halong Ginger and set sail through bay while lunch is served. Passage into the magical bay, where thousands of sculpted limestone islands rise from the waves like dragons’ teeth.
13.30: After lunch, take a short trek to a nearby summit for a panoramic view of the bay dotted with Halong Ginger golden sails, go swimming on a quite beach or sunbathing on the sundeck.
16.00: Later afternoon, visit an interesting fishing village with opportunity to interact with fishmen who have been living in the bay for almost three generations.
17.00: At sunset time, kayak or symply take a bamboo row boat to discover a water tunnel with many coral reefs in a scenic lagoon.
18.00: Back on board Halong Ginger, enjoy cocktails while watching sunset and later unwind at Ginger restaurant.

Day 2: Halong Bay – Hanoi (BR)
06.30 Greet the day with a morning Tai Chi exercise with an opportunity to view the sunrise over the bay.
08.00 After breakfast, visit beautiful limestone Sung Sot grotto then back to the boat for a final glimpse of the Halong Bay while cruising back to the dock.
11.00 Check out Halong Ginger and transfer from Halong to Hanoi. (not included)
Arrive in Hanoi at 16.00

(BR: brunch, L: lunch, D: dinner)

VISIT THE NORTH 5 DAYS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 18:54:00 -0700

Overview

There are many beautiful tourist attractions in the northern parts of Vietnam. If one only has a few days to visit the North, then going on this trip will be a smart choice! At the very outset, there is a visit to the charming city of Hanoi with its rich history, rich culture and hospitable people. Next is a visit to the well-known Ha Long Bay together with a cruising trip and spending the night on board of the boat. Last stop is to the beautiful Tam Coc, yet another “Halong Bay on rice fields”.

Day 1: Hanoi arrival. (D)
Day 2: Hanoi - Halong Bay. (B, L, D)
Day 3: Halong Bay - Hanoi. (B, L)
Day 4: Hanoi - Tam Coc. (B, L)
Day 5: Hanoi departure. (B)

Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi arrival(D)
Upon arrival at Noi Bai International airport, meeting with our tour guide and transporting to the hotel. After check-in at the hotel visiting Dong Xuan market or just walking through the streets of Hanoi. In the evening dinner is served at Thang Long Opera Hotel*** (or similar).

Day 2: Hanoi - Ha Long Bay(B, L, D)
After breakfast in the hotel sightseeing tour, which features both cultural and historical highlights, comprising Ba Dinh Square, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Ho Chi Minh's house on stilts, One - Pillar Pagoda and Temple of literature. After the tour around Hanoi and lunching, drive to Ha Long Bay. Check-in at the hotel. After arriving in Ha Long spare time to relaxing before dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight stay in Ha Long city at Van Hai Hotel*** (or similar).

Day 3: Halong Bay - Hanoi (B, L)
After having breakfast, we will board a beautiful private boat for about 4 hours to take a cruise in Ha Long Bay - a world heritage site recognized by UNESCO in 1994. A chance of exploring Thien Cung Grotto, Dau Go Cave, Tuan Chau Island, Dinh Huong Island, Ga Choi Island, Dog Island and Sail Island. Fresh seafood is served on board the boat for lunch, while sailing back to Ha Long harbor. As we drive back towards Hanoi, we are making a stop at a ceramic and hand embroidery workshop. Back in Hanoi attending the Water Puppet Show, a theatrical genre reflecting the agricultural civilization of thousands of years ago. Overnight stay in Hanoi at Thang Long Opera Hotel*** (or similar).

Day 4: Hanoi - Tam Coc (B, L)
Located only 100km from Hanoi, Tam Coc is an area of astounding natural beauty with limestone peaks whose splendor is often said to surpass that of Halong Bay. It is true that this area is often referred to as the new Ha Long Bay on land. The tour includes being rowed along the Ngo Dong River, which is a truly unforgettable experience, passing between the towering limestone peaks. Picking up at the hotel 8:00am. Leaving Hanoi and heading south for a drive along Highway One or former Road Mandarin. After lunch taking a rowing boat to visit Tam Coc. Along the way experiencing caves, green rice fields, limestone mountains and the rural life of the locals. Returning to Hanoi late in the afternoon and dining, then overnight stay at Thang Long Opera Hotel*** (or similar).

Day 5: Hanoi departure (B)
Free until transfer to Noi Bai airport for departure.

(B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner)

NORTHERN VIETNAM 6 DAYS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 18:49:00 -0700

Overview

This trip offers you the chance to explore Hanoi, see daily life of the local and learn about its culture and history. You will be amazed at the wide array of shops you’ll visit in the Old Quarter and treated to a sumptuous dinner at one of the old French villas which have been converted into gourmet restaurants. You’ll also spend a few days cruising through Halong Bay and journeying through the Red River Delta. There, you will take a boat past some of the magnificent natural wonders in the area, including the world-famous limestone cliffs. This is a just a taste of what you will be able to experience on your luxury vacation.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Hanoi (D)
Upon arrival at Hanoi’s Noi Bai International airport, you will be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel. After freshening up, you will have dinner at one of the old French colonial villas which have been converted into gourmet restaurants. Then you can experience a performance at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater before retiring for an overnight stay in Hanoi.

Day 2: Hanoi City Tour (B, L)
On day two, you’ll be able to explore the fascinating Old Quarter and its hundreds of specialty shops, selling silk clothing, lacquer ware, embroidered linens, furniture, bamboo, cooking utensils, ceremonial objects and more. You can take a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, enjoy people-watching at one of the numerous stylish cafes or shop for modern art in the city's myriad galleries. You’ll also have the chance to visit Hanoi’s main cultural attractions, including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, his House on Stilts, the One Pillar Pagoda, the Fine Arts Museum and the Temple of Literature.

Day 3: Hanoi - Ha Long Bay with night on Emotion shared boat (B, L,D)
You will be picked up with a private car at 8:30 a.m. and transferred to Halong city where you will arrive at approximately 12:30 p.m. You will board Emotion boat and set sail through the bay while lunch is served. As you cruise the magical bay, you will notice thousands of sculpted limestone islands rising from the waves like dragons' teeth. After lunch, you’ll continue on, passing by and visiting Dinh, Ga Choi and Dog islands, Binh Phong Mountain, Sung Sot Cave and Titov Beach. You may want to enjoy the sunset on the mountain top, or you can choose to take a bamboo row boat to discover the tunnels and many coral reefs in a nearby scenic lagoon. You’ll then be treated to dinner and an overnight stay aboard the junk.

Day 4: Halong Bay - Hanoi (B)
After rising to the sound of the ocean coming to life, you’ll enjoy breakfast and watch the sunrise over the bay (if you choose to get up that early!) After breakfast, you’ll be taken to Bai Tho Mountain in nearby Bai Tu Long Bay before heading back to the Halong dock in Hanoi. Finally, you’ll enjoy dinner one of Hanoi’s finest restaurants which your guide will recommend to you. You’ll then have a restful overnight stay and a satisfied stomach.

Day 5: Hoa Lu & Van Long in Red River Delta Excursion (B, L)
Just 100 km from Hanoi, Van Long is an area of astounding natural beauty, whose splendor is often said to surpass that of Ha Long Bay. You will leave Hanoi at 8:30 a.m. and head south for a 2-hour drive along Highway One, also known as Road Mandarin. You will spend one hour visiting the Dinh and Le temples of the Ancient Capital Hoa Lu and then go on to Van Long for lunch. You may choose to enjoy an optional cow cart ride to Van Long Wharf for a 2-hour boat trip along the Van Long River and marvel at its limestone peaks. Along the way, you will also see caves, green rice fields, and the rural life of the locals before returning to Hanoi. After a 6:00 p.m. drop-off at your hotel in Hanoi, you will have free time until you settle in for a relaxing overnight stay.

Day 6: Hanoi Departure (B)
There are no activities planned for your final day, so you can unwind and plan for the next leg of your journey or opt to take in even more of the city’s offerings before being escorted to the airport for your onward flight.

(B: Breakfast ; L: Lunch ; D: Dinner)

TREKKING SAPA TOUR 4 DAYS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 18:44:00 -0700

Overview

Sapa is a small market town that has been a gathering spot for many local hill tribes for nearly 200 years. Hmong and Dao people, among others, still come here to conduct trade, socialize. It is one of the most enchanting of the Vietnam popular destinations. A visit here lets you enjoy the beauty of a village built during the French colonial days. The village was built to avoid the summers in Hanoi. The village has a serene beauty. It is a land of complete peace and delight. The village can provide a fulfilling experience even with limited amenities. Sapa is one of those rare places in Vietnam which have the ability to provide a glimpse of the tribal life as it existed a couple of centuries ago.

Itinerary

Day 1: Night train from Hanoi to Lao Cai.
You will be picked up from your hotel at 20:00 and transferred to the train station. From here, you take a night train to Lao Cai. The night train leaves at 21:10. Overnight stay on train in a 4-berth soft sleeper cabin.

Day 2: Lao Cai - Sapa - Cat Cat village - Sapa.
Pick-up from Lao Cai train station in a shared bus going to Sapa. At Sapa, checking in to Cat Cat hotel, time to take a shower or relax. Or simply walking around Sapa town to see the small market in the area. In the afternoon, taking a short trekking trip to visit Cat Cat village - home of Black H’Mong people. Black H’mong is one of the biggest and poorest minority groups in the Sapa area. But they are proud of their culture and stick to their traditions and way of living. They have their own language and wear traditional indigio blue clothing.
Trekking distance: around 6km

Day 3: Sapa - Lao Chai - Ta Van village(B, L, D)
After having breakfast in the hotel we trek to Lao Chai village. On the way, stopping for lunch and relaxing. In the afternoon, continuing the trekking to Ta Van village to visit the Zay people. Zay is a small minority group who live mainly in the mountains in Northwest Vietnam. Vietnam's development has meant that some of their old customs have been lost, but many Zay women still wear traditional shirts which a purple, blue or green. Dinner and spending the night in a local stilt house in Ta Van.
Trekking around: around 12km

Day 4: Ta Van - Giang Ta Chai - Sapa. Night train to Hanoi(B, L)
On the this day, we walk to Giang Ta Chai village, where you can see the Red Dao people. The women of Red Dao have a very colorful red embroideries, coins on their clothing, and on their head they wear a red scarf. Some of the women have shaved off their eyebrows because a hairless face is considered, by the the Red Dao people, to be very beautiful. Making a stop for lunch before leaving Giang Ta Chai and driving towards Sapa. In Sapa you will check-in at Cat Cat Hotel to take a shower and relax before leaving for Hanoi. Drive in the shared bus to the train station, and heading back on the night train to Hanoi. Arriving at Hanoi the next morning, where tour ends.

(B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner)

HANOI VILLAGE HOMESTAY 2 DAYS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 18:39:00 -0700

Overview

Stay in a laidback village just outside Hanoi. Learn the art of preparing tasty Vietnamese Food. Go by bicycle through rice paddies to the local, famous pagoda and get a unique insight into living Buddhist culture. Let discover real Vietnam with us.

Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi – Can Ha homestay ( D)
We depart from your hotel by private car at 15:00 heading towards the southwest of Hanoi capital.
You arrive Can Ha village in Quoc Oai distric at about 16:00 and will be hosted by a family. You will have time to walk around the village to enjoy the natural scenery and everyday life of the locals.
17:00: Take part in the daily cooking with your host and learn from the masters how to make special Vietnamese food from the countryside.
Enjoy dinner and stay overnight with your local family (simple facilities, without own bathroom)

Day 2: Homestay – Hanoi (B, L)
After breakfast in the early morning, you go bike riding with your tour guide through the village to see the area, river, rice paddies, and experience the morning life in the countryside. You can make stops upon your request to take pictures and learn how to plant/cut rice (if you come in time for growing or cutting rice).

Arriving Thay pagoda – a beautiful one built in the 11th century where people worship Tu Dao Hanh, a monk of the Ly Dynasty who hailed from Lang Village (Hanoi) and was endowed with supernatural powers. This pagoda is also the motherland of the famous Water Puppetry. From here you can see the pagoda on the side of a mountain, surrounded by trees and representations of three incarnations of monk Tu Dao Hanh. A wooden statue is from the period when the monk led his life for Buddhism at Huong Hai Temple, where he found wild leaves to make medicine for residents and initiated water-puppet entertainment.

Depending on your energy, you can trek up the mountain to discover Cac Co Cave which is located not too far behind the pagoda. A hole in the dome of Cac Co Cave lets you see outside the cave.

We continue riding our bikes and explore more of the countryside on the way back to the homestay.

A Vietnamese lunch will be served in your homestay when back from explorations.

Take a nap or enjoy free time until pick up and transfer back to Hanoi city.
The trip ends at your hotel in Hanoi around 17:00.

(B: breakfast; L: lunch; D: dinner)

NORTHEAST ADVENTURE 6 DAYS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 18:33:00 -0700

Overview

The forests, mountains, high-degree slopes, valleys, streams and lakes are just one of the reasons to visit the Northeastern part of Vietnam. The nature here is stunning and unreal. The North East mountainous areas of Ha Giang offer breathtaking views and interesting subcultures. It is the least visited area of the north and attracts hardier travelers craving a glimpse of some of the more remote ethnic minorities.

Day 1: Hanoi - Ha Giang.
Day 2: Ha Giang - Quan Ba - Yen Minh - Dong Van.
Day 3: Dong Van - Meo Vac - Bao Lac.
Day 4: Bao Lac - Ba Be Lake.
Day 5: Ba Be Lake.
Day 6: Ba Be Lake - Hanoi.

Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi - Ha Giang (L, D)
Pick-up at the hotel and transport to Ha Giang (318 km). On the way to Ha Giang there'll be a chance to explore the countryside in Tuyen Quang. Overnight at a hotel in Ha Giang town.

Day 2: Ha Giang - Quan Ba - Yen Minh - Dong Van (B, L, D)
After breakfast at the hotel, we drive to visit Quan Ba Pass (Heaven's Gate - 1500 m high). We stop at Yen Minh town for lunch. After lunch we drive to Dong Van (the Stone Highland), where we check-in at a local guest house. A couple of free hours to explore the area before dinner is served. Overnight stay at a budget hotel in Dong Van.

Day 3: Dong Van - Meo Vac - Bao Lac (B, L, D)
After having breakfast, we visit the local market in Dong Van (if it is on Sunday) and the ancient houses. Then we drive to visit Meo Vac. On the way, a chance to admire the beautiful nature a long the road. We stop to visit Vuong palace – home of Meo's King. Having lunch enroute. Then we continue our trip to Bao Lac. Overnight stay at a budget hotel.

Day 4: Bao Lac - Ba Be Lake (B, L, D)
After having breakfast, you have some time to see the area before we drive to Ba Be. We will stop in Cho Ra for lunch. Then we continue our trip to Ba Be Lake. After check-in at the homestay, there will be some spare time to explore the area and visit the Tay minority village. Overnight stay in the Tay family’s traditional stilt house.

Day 5: Ba Be Lake (B, L, D)
Starting the day with a boat trip on the Ba Be Lake for about 4 hours. The boat will make a stop at Dau Dang waterfall and the giant Poong grotto with hundreds of bats. In the National Park you can discover spectacular high waterfall, rivers, deep valleys, natural cave and small lakes. In the afternoon there will be the possibility to go on a short trek with our guide to one of the small Tay villages scattered around the lake. Overnight stay in the same homestay at Ba Be Lake.

Day 6: Ba Be Lake - Hanoi (B, L)
After a long night sleep, having breakfast before leaving the homestay and Ba Be Lake for the drive back to Hanoi. Lunch will be served in a local restaurant on the way back. The trip will ends, when we arrive in Hanoi late in the afternoon.

(B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner)

HANOI CITY TOUR - Duration: 1 Day

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 19:09:00 -0700

Overview

Activity	Classic
Start in	Hanoi
End in	Hanoi
Group Size	Max 12 pax
Tour type	Private Tour
Code	DV001
Depart	Daily
Price from	US$ 51

Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam, a city in the Northern part of the country. Not as commercialized as Saigon, its counterpart and possibly bigger city in the South, "Hanoi personifies a historic Vietnam", where in the midst of the busy streets and crowded traffics, you will find plenty traces of a ancient Vietnam: pagodas, temples, lakes, and rivers (each of them carries some historic significance in Vietnam History.)

Itinerary

AM: 08:30 pick up from your hotel, drive to visit Ho Chi Minh complex, including Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum – the final resting place of the Vietnamese great father or uncle Ho, President Ho Chi Minh’s stilt House – where he lived on and off from 1958 to 1969, the next place to move to is One Pillar Pagoda – a group of structures consisting of a pagoda and a tower built in the middle of a square lake. Leave One Pillar Pagoda and transfer to West Lake, visit Tran Quoc pagoda. Have lunch.

PM: After lunch, you will be transferred to visit the Temple of literature. Continue to visit Museum of Ethnology – the most interesting museum in Hanoi with many different things relating the 54 Vietnamese ethnic groups. After that, you will visit Hoan Kiem lake (Restore Sword Lake). The last place of the tour is taking a walk for few minutes to visit The old quarter of Hanoi. Tour ends at your hotel.

Trip Notes

Please bring cap/hat with you!

Price

Class	Size of group						Booking
Class	1 pax	2 pax	3 pax	4+ pax	Children	Single Room	Booking
Standard	120	64	55	51	32	0	Book now

Note: Price in USD per person

Included Services:

Car transfers,

Lunch

All entrance fees

English speaking tour guide

Excluded Services: Drinks, personal expenses and tips.