Vietnam Explorer’s Delight: Cultural Immersion

Day 1: City Highlights Tour

Your journey begins in Saigon, a city that never sleeps. Delve into history as you explore historic landmarks, from the Notre Dame Cathedral to the Central Post Office. Gain insights into local life and culture at a Saigon street coffee shop. The War Remnants Museum provides a poignant glimpse into the American War. Discover the traditions of Chinatown and Thien Hau Temple. Explore the FITO Museum, the first museum of traditional medicine in Vietnam.

Day 2: Vespa Tour – A Glimpse of the Mekong

Experience the Mekong Delta on an exhilarating Vespa tour. Cross bridges, cruise through bustling riverside markets, and explore local cottage industries. This adventurous journey culminates at a local restaurant where you can try your hand at fishing while sipping on a cold beer in the shade.

Day 3: Journey to Cu Chi: Exploring Vietnam’s History

Set off on a cycling adventure to the Cu Chi tunnels, a crucial part of the American War history. As you traverse the quieter agricultural regions, discover the art of making rice paper. Visit the underground villages to gain insights into the tunnels’ history and Vietnamese resilience during combat. Return to Saigon in the late afternoon.

Day 4: Heritage and History of Vietnam

Explore the My Son Cham temples, one of the best-preserved Cham centers in Vietnam. Set in a verdant valley surrounded by hills, these 20 monuments provide an introduction to Cham culture, architecture, and civilization. Later, drive to My Lai, a life-size memorial of the horrific war atrocities. Witness how My Lai has evolved since then and how the town is moving forward.

Day 5: Lantern Making in Hoi An: Unveiling Traditional Craftsmanship

In the charming town of Hoi An, create your own traditional silk lantern with a local artisan. Discover the history and significance of these colorful lanterns that have made a comeback thanks to Mr. Huynh Van Trung, an experienced artisan. Chat with him about the lantern-making process, and take your own lantern home as a souvenir.

Day 6: Timeless Treasures of Hue: Pagodas and Imperial Heritage

Visit Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue’s best-preserved religious monument, standing on the riverbank with its seven-storey tower. Explore the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO-listed site, or visit the Royal Tomb of Minh Mang. In the afternoon, venture to Duong No and walk along the river to Am Ba Bridge before visiting Thanh Toan Bridge, the oldest bridge in the region.

Day 7: Buddhist Blessing Ceremony: Connecting with Spirituality

Hue is the center of Buddhism in Vietnam. Explore ancient pagodas constructed over 300 years ago. Ba La Mat Pagoda, built in 1885, offers an opportunity to bring offerings to the monks. Afterward, enjoy a prayer ceremony for a good life and receive a keepsake from the monks.

Day 8: Hanoi’s Cultural Charms: Capital Exploration

Explore Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, with visits to the Temple of Literature, the first university for the sons of mandarins. Discover the extensive collection at the Museum of Ethnology, showcasing Vietnam’s 54 ethnic minority groups. Stroll through the bustling Old Quarter and cap off the day with a water puppet theatre show.

Day 9: Trang An Landscape and Hoa Lu: A World Heritage Experience

Travel to Ninh Binh province to explore the stunning Trang An Landscape Complex, a World Heritage Site. Visit Hoa Lu, the ancient capital, and take a boat trip through the breathtaking landscapes.

Day 10 & Day 11: 2 Days on Bhaya Classic: Halong Bay’s Natural Wonders

Embark on a 2-day cruise in Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore Dark and Bright Lagoon and the magnificent Surprise Cave. Participate in a cooking demonstration and enjoy squid fishing in the evening.

Day 12: Trekking Ta Phin: Exploring Sapa’s Natural Beauty

Head to Ta Phin village in Sapa for a trek through hilly terrain. Witness hill tribe people working in terraced paddy fields and experience the diversity of traditions, cultures, and costumes of the Black H’mong and Red Dao ethnic groups.

Day 13: Summiting Fansipan: A Majestic Adventure

Reach the summit of Fansipan, the highest mountain in Vietnam, via a cable car. Enjoy panoramic views and visit a pagoda that holds special meaning for locals.

Day 14: Cultural Talk by Historian: Insights into Vietnam’s Past and Culture

Participate in a lively 45-minute presentation on Vietnamese history and culture by a well-known scholar and writer who has experienced Vietnam’s journey through different eras. Gain a deeper understanding of the nation’s culture and history.

Day 15: APT Departure Assistance Service (Intl)

Wrap up your transformative journey with a departure made easy. At the airport, our representative will handle your tickets, passport, and luggage, ensuring a seamless departure process. Relax in the waiting area, reflecting on the meaningful experiences of your Vietnam philanthropic adventure.