Vietnam Experience

Upon arrival at Saigon airport your private driver will be waiting to escort you to your hotel, the Odys Saigon in District 1, in the heart of the city. Why not enjoy the panoramic views from its rooftop bar before dinner?

Visit the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, where your private guide will explain the astonishing realities of the guerrilla tactics used by the Viet Cong during the war. You'll discover bamboo traps, field hospitals and kitchens, and if you choose, crouch through a short section of the tunnels for yourself. This afternoon, return to Saigon. This exuberant city is driving Vietnam forward into the modern world, but it is also a treasure trove of fascinating heritage. See French colonial landmarks such as the Notre Dame Cathedral and visit the Central Post Office, the Reunification Palace, and the emotive War Remnants Museum.

This morning, your private guide will pick you up for a whirlwind escape to the country. Head to Ben Tre to explore on a rural section of the mighty Mekong. This area is known as the 'Rice Basket of Vietnam', the rich and fertile lands producing huge amounts of rice, coconuts, vegetables and tropical fruits. Spend the day cruising and exploring, travelling by motorised, wooden boats between the islands and changing to smaller paddleboats in the canal. Return to Saigon in the early evening.

Take a 1hr 20min flight to Danang and transfer to the charming, UNESCO listed town of Hoi An. This wilfully traditional town offers an impressive ancient centre famous for its yellow buildings, romantic ambience and swaying silk lanterns. Our hotel in Hoi An is the Silkotel, just a few minutes' walk from the Old Town. After lunch, your guide will show you Hoi An's secrets on a private walking tour. This historic merchant town has influences from many corners of Asia. See the elaborate Japanese Bridge, a Chinese temple and the bustling market. Your evening is at leisure to soak up the atmosphere, go lantern shopping or even get measured for express tailoring at one of the local boutiques. The night seamstresses and shoemakers here are famous for their quick, high-quality work - they can whip up a custom garment in just 24 hours and deliver it to your hotel too.

Your personal guide will pick you up by car this morning. Head out into the lush green countryside to visit Tra Que, a local farming co-operative that supplies many hotels and restaurants in the area with vegetables and herbs. See the farmers at work, hear about the traditional methods they use, and even try your hand at it for yourself. This afternoon, you are at leisure to explore Hoi An's lovely shops and bars, relax in your hotel or even visit the beach.

This morning, drive approximately 4 hours to Hue; this journey will take you over the scenic Hai Van Pass, often named as one of the best road trips in the world. Hue is the epitome of Vietnam's dynamic past, and was once the seat of the Nguyen emperors. Upon arrival, explore the Royal Tomb of Minh Mang; the complex comprises of almost 40 monuments and is surrounded by scenic gardens and pools. Visit the Imperial Citadel and the Forbidden Purple City before an evening cruise on the Perfume River. Your hotel in Hue is the Saigon Morin, on the banks of the Perfume River. Lovingly restored to its former glory, this grand French colonial hotel boasts possibly the most central location in the whole city, with everything in walking distance. Take advantage the hotel's indoor or al fresco restaurants, explore the nearby street market, or head to one of the neighbouring restaurants along the riverfront - the choice is yours.

Fly to Hanoi and enjoy time at leisure to explore Vietnam's capital, your way. Check in at the centrally located The Ann Hotel , close to the city's major sights and monuments. Why not shop in the wonderful boutiques of the Old Quarter, or enjoy the beautiful architecture and restaurants in the French Quarter?

Your private guide will introduce the city's history during this morning's private tour. Take a walk through the Ho Chi Minh Quarter, where you'll see the Stilt House set in the gardens of the Presidential Palace, before continuing to the One Pillar Pagoda and the Confucian Temple of Literature. End the day's explorations with a cyclo tour through the Old Quarter and enjoy a flavourful Vietnamese coffee at a café overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake.

Travel east to Halong Bay, the highlight of any visit to Vietnam. Here, you'll spend a day and night aboard the comfortable Pelican cruise ship, sailing amongst magnificent karst peaks on the tranquil green waters of Halong Bay. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a vision of awe-inspiring beauty, it isn't hard to see why it is one of Vietnam's most popular destinations. Amid the myriad of islands, enjoy an excursion such as a visit to one of the bay's stalactite-filled caves, or a kayaking experience in one of its sheltered bays.

Rise early this morning for a beautiful sunrise over the bay as you cruise back to port. Return to Hanoi after brunch. This afternoon, your private guide will take you to visit the home of a water puppet artist. This traditional Vietnamese performance art has roots dating back to the 10th century. You will have a chance to talk with the artist, watch the process of making the puppets and enjoy a private water puppet show.

You will be transferred to Hanoi airport where your arrangements end.