VIETNAM’S capital, Hanoi, is situated at the heart of the fertile Red River delta. This charming city is steeped in history and traditions with a strong French colonial feel. Hanoi is characterised by tree-lined boulevards, lakes, parks and elegant squares. You will stay at the Sofitel Metropole Hanoi***** for 3 nights. Whilst here you will visit the main city sights and enjoy a cyclo ride round the Old Quarter with its maze of narrow alleyways and a full day excursion travelling through a landscape of picturesque paddy fields to the magnificent Halong Bay. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, HALONG BAY has over 3000 amazing limestone islands rising from emerald green waters of the GULF OF TONKIN. A leisurely boat trip with a delicious fish/seafood lunch will give you time to relax and take in the breathtaking views of these beautiful natural surroundings.
You will then fly from Hanoi to HUE and stay at the Hotel Saigon Morin**** for 2 nights overlooking the HUONG RIVER. A traditional ‘dragon boat’ trip on the romantic Perfume River and a visit to the OLD IMPERIAL CITY and FORBIDDEN PURPLE CITY are included. Within easy walking distance of the hotel you may like to wander around the bustling Dong Ba market or take a stroll along the river watching the Vietnamese going about their daily life.
Driving from Hué via the incredible HAI VAN PASS, with spectacular mountain views, the picturesque riverside town of Hoi An is your next location. You will stay for 3 nights at the Hoi An Riverside Resort****, perfectly situated 3km from Hoi An town on the peaceful banks of the Song Do River, overlooking corn and lush green rice fields with farmers in their traditional conical hats. A walking tour of Hoi An includes a boat trip on the THU BON RIVER and a cyclo ride around local villages and surrounding countryside. Taxis and cyclos are easily available from the hotel to take you to the nearby beautiful sandy beach or into town where there are numerous shops and restaurants.
A short flight will take you to Nha Trang from where you will be transferred to the Ana Mandara Evason Hideaway*****, for 4 nights. This unique hotel is situated on the dramatic NINH VAN BAY on a white sandy beach in tropical gardens overlooking turquoise seas and scattered islands. Half way through your tour, here you can totally unwind in the tranquillity of this Vietnamese-style hotel with excellent facilities. From here various interesting tours can be arranged independently through the hotel.
Refreshed from your stay at Nha Trang, a short flight will take you to the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City for a stay of 4 nights at the Caravelle Hotel*****, situated in the heart of this vibrant city, over looking the Opera House. A city tour taking in all the major sights is included, as well as the War Remnants Museum. A boat trip from My Tho into a tributary of the MEKONG DELTA, will show you typical village life and a visit to the amazing CU CHI TUNNELS is included.
Leaving Vietnam you will fly to the capital of Cambodia, Phnom Penh. Recovering slowly from years of bloodshed, suffering and ruthless destruction of its proud cultural heritage, this courageous country is positively embracing the future. The Raffles Hotel Le Royal**** is a charming hotel of Kymer and colonial architectural styles located in the centre of Phnom Penh. Three nights stay here include visits to the Royal Palace, National Museum and markets.
The final highlight of the tour will be Siem Reap and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor, ancient capital of the Kymer Empire and the spiritual and cultural heart of Cambodia. The enchanting Victoria Hotel****, (3 night’s stay), is only a short drive from the temples of Angkor.
The fortified ROYAL CITY OF ANGKOR THOM was built by King Jayavaman VII. This colossal city has five impressive monumental gates and stunning architectural detail. TA PROHM, probably Angkor’s most enchanting temple, has been preserved as it was when first discovered, with trees and roots enveloping the temples. It is a truly amazing sight.
ANGKOR WAT, dedicated to the Hindu God Vishnu, is undoubtedly the greatest temple here. The awe-inspiring temple with its towering gateway and massive moat, as well as the longest continuous bas-relief in the world narrating stories from Hindu mythology, make Angkor Wat truly breathtaking and the perfect conclusion to your tour in this area of Indochina.
