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Small Group Programs to Vietnam 2004-2005
This is not for everyone.
You will only do this if you want to be totally exhausted at the end of your
trip - by fun, lots of walking, lugging your back packs all over, overnight trains, small hotels with
basic amenities, and with a group of 11 other international travelers usually between ages of 20 to 50.
These programs offer great value.
If you prefer to move at your own pace, or want more upscale accommodations or private guides, please
contact us for independent programs.
The Reunification Express
15 days Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City from 853.00
Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An, Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh City
Embrace the vibrancy of Vietnam. The Reunification Express is a vital lifeline between north and south Vietnam. Along its path we experience the many scenic, historical, cultural and culinary highlights of this marvelous country. Allow USD$190 for meals not included.
| Itinerary |
| Days 1-3 | Hanoi - Halong Bay |
From the whirlwind of colour and activity that is Hanoi, we step into the tranquility of Halong Bay to cruise amid the incredible limestone peaks, investigate the caves hidden amongst the karsts and dine on local seafood. |
| Day 4 | Hanoi - Overnight Train |
Ho Chi Minh is Vietnam's most honoured ancestor. A visit to his mausoleum, stilt house and museum are undertaken with due solemnity before boarding the southbound Reunification Express. |
| Days 5-6 | Hue |
The pace of life is slow and tranquility prevails in Hue, the former Imperial capital. Explore the Imperial Citadel, tombs of the Nguyen Emperors, the bustling Dong Ba market, Hue Cathedral and sample Hue's culinary specialities. |
| Days 7-9 | Hoi An |
The train south leads through coastal rice paddies and fishing villages taking the scenic coastal path around the spectacular Hai Van Pass to Danang and a short drive south. Once a bustling river port, Hoi An is a place to relax among riverside cafes and excellent shopping. |
| Days 10-12 | Nha Trang |
Board the Reunification Express for the beach side city of Nha Trang. A full day's boat cruise, complete with seafood buffet, is a highlight for most Intrepid travellers. |
| Days 13-15 | Ho Chi Minh City |
Prepare for sensory overload as we roam the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City by cyclo. The former VC stronghold, the Cu Chi tunnels, provides a valuable insight into the tenacity and resourcefulness of the Vietnamese people. |
Vietnam
20 days Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) to Hanoi from 1221.00
Mekong Delta, Dalat, Nha Trang, seafood banquets, Hoi An, Hue, Halong Bay
Quintessential Vietnam. This was our first trip to Vietnam, and many say it remains our best. Come and share the experience of dynamic cities and tranquil backwaters, imperial majesty and faded colonial elegance, picture-perfect landscapes dotted with reminders of past trauma. Allow US$250 for meals not included.
| Itinerary |
| Days 1-2 | Ho Chi Minh City |
Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling economic hub, its stately colonial buildings, teeming markets, rich temples, chaotic traffic and incredible food is a great introduction to the diversity and wonder that is Vietnam. |
| Days 3-4 | Mekong Delta |
The lush green waterways of the Mekong Delta are a thriving centre of cottage industries and floating markets. A very different life to that endured by the Viet Cong within the labyrinthine tunnels of Cu Chi. |
| Days 5-6 | Dalat |
Rubber, tea and coffee line the route into the cooler climate of the South Central Highlands and the honeymoon town of Dalat. It is a world of decaying French villas and controversial characters. |
| Days 7-8 | Nha Trang |
With breathtaking views, we descend from the highlands to the coastal city of Nha Trang. Here the water is warm, palm trees plentiful, the beach long and white and a boat cruise around idyllic islands awaits us. |
| Day 9 | Qui Nhon |
Highway One leads north beside the sparkling blue waters of the South China Sea. Islands, lagoons and sand dunes give way to sugar plantations and rice fields as we approach the fishing port of Qui Nhon. |
| Days 10-12 | Hoi An |
The serenity of My Lai is a poignant reminder of wartime atrocities. With architecture dating back over 200 years, Hoi An celebrates its trading heritage with markets, tailors, art galleries, craft workshops and restaurants. |
| Days 13-15 | Hue |
Hue's imperial citadel and stately Thien Mu Pagoda overlook the Perfume River. Its narrow shady lanes lead to tombs of emperors, hidden temples and harmonious pagodas, before emerging onto vast plains of brilliant rice fields. |
| Day 16 | Hanoi |
In the narrow streets of Hanoi's old quarter, shop for traditional medicines, altar offerings, lacquer ware, hill tribe textiles, flowers, jewellery and perhaps a tin box to carry it all. Restore your energy at a lakeside cafe. |
| Days 17-18 | Halong Bay |
Sip a sunset beer by Cat Ba's busy harbour. These fishing boats earn their livelihood amidst the beauty of Halong Bay's 2,000 limestone peaks. Relax, swim and enjoy a seafood feast. |
| Days 19-20 | Hanoi |
Retreat from Hanoi's hectic streets into the tranquility of the Temple of Literature, where there are regular performances of traditional music. Or visit Ngoc Son, the island temple of Hanoi's central lake. |
The Spirit of Vietnam - Northbound
10 days Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) to Hanoi or vice-versa from 704.00
Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Hue, Halong Bay
Discover the spirit of Vietnam. From vibrant Ho Chi Minh City and the charms of Hoi An, to the atmospheric Imperial capital of Hue, effervescent Hanoi and the natural wonders of Halong Bay. This is the perfect introduction to the major highlights of this wonderful country. Allow US$180 for meals not included and US$70 for flights to be purchased en route.
| Itinerary |
| Days 1-2 | Ho Chi Minh City |
Colourful, noisy and most definitely exciting. Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), one of the most vibrant cities in Indochina and to the underground mysteries of the Cu Chi Tunnels. |
| Days 3-4 | Hoi An |
A rich architectural fusion of Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese and French influence, Hoi An is an old trading port intent on maintaining its connections with traditional and modern crafts with cafes, restaurants and tailor shops piled high with silks. |
| Days 5-7 | Hue |
Once the Imperial capital, Hue's incredible history is almost tangible. Explore the citadel, tombs of the Nguyen Emperors, the seemingly timeless Buddhist pagodas or buy incense on the roadside and cruise the Perfume River. |
| Day 8 | Halong Bay |
Dramatic limestone karst peaks rise from the waters of Halong Bay and swirling mists often add to the sense of mystery which, according to legend, was created as a dragon descended into the sea. |
| Days 9-10 | Hanoi |
Hanoi, the delightful capital of Vietnam, offers endless adventures. Try wandering the shops and markets of the Old Quarter, relaxing by the city's lakes, visiting Ho Chi Minh in his stark mausoleum or sampling delicious street food. |
Road to Angkor
9 days Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) to Bangkok or vice-versa from 732.00
Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phnom Penh, temples of Angkor
Experience the wonders of Cambodia with a glimpse into Thailand and Vietnam. Explore the ancient Angkor temple complex, learn of Cambodia's intriguing history, and experience the dynamic energy of Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City. Allow US$180 for meals not included and US$75 for flights to be purchased en route.
| Itinerary |
| Day 1 | Ho Chi Minh City |
Ho Chi Minh City's network of markets and shops are tempting to explore, as are the colourful temples, central boulevards and French colonial buildings. |
| Day 2 | Chao Doc |
Through lush rural countryside we travel by bus to the border and Mekong Delta town of Chao Doc. |
| Days 3-4 | Phnom Penh |
Phnom Penh reveals the darker side of Cambodia's history at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields while the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and markets are a brighter aspect of this fascinating city. |
| Days 5-7 | Angkor Wat |
From Siem Reap we explore Angkor, the magnificent remains of the ancient Khmer Empire. Stunning Angkor Wat and jungle-covered Ta Prohm are unforgettable sights. |
| Days 8-9 | Bangkok |
A full day's drive crosses the border into Thailand as we travel to the metropolis of Bangkok. A traditional massage and wonderful Thai food will be all the revival we need to head out and explore this energetic city. |
Best of Vietnam and Cambodia - Southbound
18 days Hanoi to Bangkok from 1249.00
Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phnom Penh, Angkor temples
Journey into the heart and soul of Indochina. Incense burning before compassionate Buddhas in the cave shrines of Halong Bay, serene lichen-covered pagodas of imperial Hue, bustling temples of Saigon's chinatown on the banks of the Mekong and amid the ruins of ancient Angkor. This is a trip of cultural, historical and scenic diversity. Allow US$310 for meals not included and US$160 for flights to be purchased en route.
| Itinerary |
| Day 1 | Hanoi |
Exotic, exhilarating Hanoi offers a wealth of possibilities. Explore its pulsating streets and markets, discover history at Ho Chi Minh's mausoleum and the infamous Hanoi Hilton or feel its spirit in the many active temples. |
| Days 2-3 | Halong Bay |
Discover the wonders of Halong Bay's 3000 limestone karst islands, explore hidden caves, swim in crystal clear waters and indulge in a feast of succulent seafood. |
| Days 4-5 | Hue |
Situated on the banks of the Perfume River, the tranquil city of Hue was once the Imperial capital of Vietnam. Explore the imposing citadel, tranquil tombs of long dead emperors, serene pagodas and quiet riverside cafes. |
| Days 6-7 | Hoi An |
The Marble Mountains, dramatic passes, picturesque fishing villages and stunning beaches define the route to the World Heritage site of Hoi An, rich in historical architecture, art galleries, restaurants and excellent shopping. |
| Days 8-10 | Ho Chi Minh City |
Travel by cyclo through the streets of Saigon and crawl through the tunnels of Cu Chi to experience the constricted life of the infamous Viet Cong. Two contrasting worlds reveal the heart and history of southern Vietnam. |
| Day 11 | Mekong Delta |
A last glimpse of rural Vietnam as we travel to the small Mekong Delta town of Chao Doc. |
| Days 12-13 | Phnom Penh |
Phnom Penh is a city of contrast and change. Elegant cafes along riverside Sisowath Quay, dusty, unpaved back streets, resplendent Royal Palace and the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum - a stark reminder of a brutal past. |
| Days 14-16 | Angkor Wat |
Witness the splendour of Angkor Wat's towers at dawn. Walk amid gigantic benevolent faces of the Bayon. Clamber over twisting tree roots at Ta Prohm and wonder at the delicate carvings of Banteay Srei. |
| Days 17-18 | Bangkok |
We have a long drive across the border into Thailand and onto bustling Bangkok, arriving in time for a revitalising traditional Thai massage, some great Thai food and a Singha (Thai beer) or two. |
Premium Vietnam
16 days Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) to Hanoi; $1766 twin, $2354 single
Cu Chi Tunnels, Mekong Delta homestay, Nha Trang, Hoi An, Hue, hilltribes, Water Puppets, Halong Bay
From south to north, Vietnam is a kaleidoscope of people and landscapes. Imagine exploring vibrant Hanoi with its beautiful lakes and boulevards while staying in the capital's most charming hotel. The excitement of adventure travel isn't forgotten and what better way to meet the locals than to be their guests. Historical temples, spectacular scenery, delicious banquets and smiling faces all await you in Vietnam. Allow US$220 for meals not included. US$85 for flights to be purchased en route.
| Itinerary |
| Days 1-2 | Ho Chi Minh City |
Hoi Chi Minh City is the ideal place to begin an adventure in Vietnam. This dynamic city is where old meets new, as ancient pagodas mingle with French influenced cafes, colourful markets and emotive museums. |
| Days 3-4 | Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta |
The infamous Cu Chi Tunnels offer insight into the underground lives of the notorious Viet Cong. The serpentine waterways of the Mekong Delta are a mass of sampans and barges, as communities trade and travel afloat. |
| Day 5 | Nha Trang |
Nha Trang is one of Vietnam's most idyllic beach resorts. A harmonious blend of mountains, islands, sea and beautiful white sand beaches. We take a boat trip to nearby islands and enjoy fresh seafood at its best. |
| Days 6-8 | Hoi An |
Once one of South East Asia's most important international trading ports, today World Heritage listed Hoi An offers delicious Vietnamese cuisine, historic architecture and narrow laneways lined with tailors and fine art galleries. |
| Days 9-11 | Hue |
The former Imperial capital of Hue is a quiet city renowned for the magnificent architecture of its citadel, palaces, royal tombs, pagodas and temples, built under the Nguyen dynasty on the banks of the Perfume River. |
| Days 12-13 | Hanoi |
Hanoi is a charming city of beautiful lakes, shaded boulevards and colonial architecture. We won't miss the famous Water Puppets, historic temples or Old Quarter streets named for their trade. |
| Days 14-15 | Halong Bay |
Magical Halong Bay is breathtaking with over 3,000 limestone islands rising from the emerald waters of the Bac Bo Gulf. Amid this magnificent scenery we take an overnight boat cruise highlighted by an incredible seafood feast. |
| Day 16 | Hanoi |
After spending our last night back in Hanoi, you are free to depart at any tim |
Vietnam Family Adventure
15 days Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City from 1073.00
Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An, Nha Trang
Diverse, beautiful and lots of fun. Vietnam is a great place for a family adventure. Journey together from Hanoi to historic Hue and Hoi An, each set in beautiful surrounds. On to the beaches of Nha Trang and the modern metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City. This is a trip for the whole family to be entertained by people, bargains, history, colour, culture and lots, lots more. Allow US$180 for meals not included and US$70 for flights to be purchased en route.
| Itinerary |
| Days 1-2 | Hanoi |
Join in the madness and mayhem that fills Hanoi with colour and life. Explore the Old Quarter where narrow lanes offer traditional puppets, painted T-shirts, silver jewellery, watches, shoes and kitchen supplies. |
| Days 3-4 | Halong Bay |
Cruise the incredible limestone peaks of World Heritage listed Halong Bay. Explore caves, swim, eat and spend an unforgettable night sleeping on board our boat. |
| Days 5-6 | Hue |
Hue is a former Imperial capital with a wonderfully tranquil atmosphere. Explore the imposing citadel and the emperors' tombs for a taste of the old world and take a dragon boat trip on the Perfume River. |
| Days 7-9 | Hoi An |
Enjoy fantastic coastal scenery, fishing villages, famous China Beach and the heritage town of Hoi An. There is feasting and shopping, a busy morning fish market, traditional architecture, beaches and lovely rural surrounds. |
| Days 10-12 | Nha Trang |
Beachside days at Nha Trang include cruising the turquoise waters and exploring the pirate ship aquarium at Hon Mieu island. Go on to spend an afternoon lazing and swimming at our own private beach. |
| Days 13-15 | Ho Chi Minh City |
Prepare for sensory overload as we roam the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City by cyclo. Then cool off at Saigon Water Park, a fantastic water play ground on the riverbank. |
Journey through Vietnam
15 days Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City from 1177.00
Community projects, Halong Bay, Ninh Binh, Hue, Hoi An, Mekong Delta
An enriching Asian tour that gives back to the communities we visit. Experience the best that Vietnam has to offer - the charms of Hanoi, the natural wonders of Halong Bay, the former capital Hue, picturesque Hoi An, vibrant Ho Chi Minh City and the mighty Mekong Delta while learning about the inspirational work of NGOs in Vietnam. Allow US$280 for meals not included US$ 70 for flights to be purchased en route.
| Itinerary |
| Days 1-2 | Hanoi |
Our adventure begins amongst the busy tree-lined streets of Vietnam's capital, Hanoi. We pay our respects at Ho Chi Minh's mausoleum and museum, investigate the Old Quarter and sample some great local food. |
| Days 3-4 | Halong Bay |
Magical Halong Bay is breathtaking with over 3,000 limestone islands rising from the emerald waters. Amid this magnificent scenery there are caves to explore and an incredible seafood feast. |
| Days 5-6 | Ninh Binh |
Ninh Binh is a base for venturing into a world of thousand year old trees and caves where evidence of prehistoric man has been found. Visit centres concerned with primate and turtle rescue and conservation. |
| Days 7-8 | Hue |
The former Imperial capital of Hue is a tranquil city packed with historic sites such as tombs of the Nguyen emperors, the imposing citadel and Thien Mu Pagoda. All are accessible from our dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River. |
| Days 9-11 | Hoi An |
Past picturesque fishing villages, China Beach and Marble Mountain, we travel south to Hoi An, a delightful river town of beautiful architecture, great art galleries, excellent shopping and fantastic restaurants. |
| Day 12 | Ho Chi Minh City |
Ho Chi Minh City is a dynamic place where old meets new, where ancient pagodas mingle with French influenced cafes and colourful markets contrast with emotive museums. |
| Day 13 | Mekong Delta |
A boat across the mighty Mekong is our introduction to a world where water is life. Weave amid the chaotic floating market, buy coffee from a passing sampan, chug down leafy canals, sample rice wine and tropical fruit. |
| Days 14-15 | Ho Chi Minh City |
Returning to the bustle of Ho Chi Minh City there is no end to the possibilities. Sights to see, souvenirs to be bargained for and all manner of delicacies to be consumed. |
Cycle Vietnam
15 days Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City from $1221.00
Ninh Binh, Hue, Hoi An, South Central Coast, Dalat
Thirty million Vietnamese cannot be wrong - handle bar height is the best view of Vietnam! Cycling through rice paddies and little travelled backroads is a perfect way to discover this country's landscapes and people. Allow USD$240 for meals not included.
| Itinerary |
| Days 1-2 | Hanoi |
Warm up the muscles and the reflexes on a ride around the tree-lined streets of Hanoi, Vietnam's vibrant capital. |
| Days 3-4 | Ninh Binh - Hue |
It's back roads all the way to Ninh Binh, surrounded by towering limestone karsts. There's time for a ride to Hoa Lu, an ancient capital and an excursion to the Endangered Primate Rescue Centre at Cuc Phuong National Park. |
| Day 5 | Hue |
The imperial capital of Hue is set amidst incredible surrounds. Quiet, wooded lanes lead to ancient tombs and otherworldly pagodas along the Perfume River and across vast expanses of emerald rice fields. |
| Days 6-8 | Hoi An |
It's a mountainous day of spectacular views as we conquer the Hai Van (Sea Cloud). En-route we pass through laid-back Hoi An, a wonderful place to rest with restaurants, heritage architecture, art galleries, tailors and a beach nearby. |
| Days 9-10 | Quang Ngai - Qui Nhon |
We drive and cycle through picturesque rural countryside to Quang Ngai and the moving memorial at the site of the My Lai massacre. Then it's striking coastal scenery all the way to the seaport town of Qui Nhon. |
| Day 11 | Nha Trang |
We continue riding beside the South China Sea to the resort town of Nha Trang. Here we can unwind in local mineral baths or keep up the pace and enjoy the nightlife. |
| Days 12-13 | Dalat |
It's up again through the Ngoan Muc Pass into the central highlands where tea and coffee flourish. A delightful city, Dalat, is a perfect base for exploring the surrounding forests, beautiful gardens and picturesque waterfalls. |
| Days 14-15 | Ho Chi Minh City |
Time for one last riding splurge - an exciting downhill stint through the winding Bao Loc Pass to where our bus awaits to help us along the final leg into Ho Chi Minh City where we enjoy our final dinner together. |
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