Vietnam in Luxury

Begin your exploration of Hanoi with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, his traditional stilt house and the revered One-Pillar Pagoda. Continue to the Temple of Literature, founded in 1070 and regarded as Vietnam's first university.
Later, set out on foot from Hoan Kiem Lake, passing along Hang Hanh, Hanoi's famous coffee street, before making your way towards the city's Catholic Cathedral. Wander through the quieter lanes and observe everyday Hanoi life, from street vendors and local residents to the ubiquitous motorbike taxis.
The contrast between peaceful residential lanes and the lively streets of central Hanoi provides an authentic introduction to the character of Vietnam's capital.

Travel approximately 155 kilometres to Halong Bay, arriving around midday to board your overnight cruise through spectacular Lan Ha Bay, an extension of the famed Halong Bay region.
Rising dramatically from the emerald waters, the limestone islands and islets are covered in lush vegetation, creating one of Vietnam's most extraordinary natural landscapes. The wider Halong Bay area encompasses approximately 1,900 islands and islets and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.
Settle aboard your cruise and take in the scenery as you sail through this remarkable seascape.

Rise early, depending on the season, for the opportunity to witness sunrise over the tranquil waters of the bay. Continue cruising before disembarking late morning.
Transfer to Hanoi Airport for your flight to Danang. On arrival, meet your local representative and transfer by private vehicle to Hoi An.
The remainder of the afternoon is free to settle into your hotel or begin discovering the atmospheric surroundings of this historic town.

Discover the UNESCO-listed ancient town of Hoi An, renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved streets and historic architecture reflecting Vietnamese, Japanese, Chinese and French influences.
During your walking tour, visit the Reaching Out Teahouse, a social enterprise providing employment and training opportunities for people with disabilities. Its peaceful setting offers a fascinating insight into an initiative supporting local communities.
Return to Hoi An during the afternoon, with time at leisure to explore the atmospheric old town independently or relax at the beach.

This morning, head to Hoi An's Central Market accompanied by your expert chef. Browse the colourful stalls, meet local vendors and select the fresh ingredients that will form part of your Vietnamese cooking experience.
Continue by private boat along the river to the riverside restaurant, where your chef will guide you through the preparation of traditional Vietnamese dishes. Roll up your sleeves and take part in creating the dishes before sitting down to taste the results.
A wonderful opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Vietnam's distinctive culinary traditions.

Today is free to explore Hoi An at your own pace. Browse the atmospheric lanes and local shops, return to favourite places discovered during your earlier sightseeing or take time to relax.
Optional experience (supplement applies): Sunset Dinner on a Bamboo Raft
As the sun begins to set, travel by traditional bamboo basket boat along the Coco River before arriving at The Field restaurant in the peaceful Hoi An countryside.
Dine on a bamboo raft positioned along the riverbank while a selection of fresh local produce and the day's catch is prepared and served. After dinner, return to your hotel.

Transfer to Danang Airport for your flight south to Ho Chi Minh City.
On arrival, transfer to your hotel before setting out on a distinctive Vespa experience through Saigon. Ride through side streets and back lanes into Chinatown, discovering hidden corners and observing everyday life away from the main tourist routes. Visit a local pagoda before continuing through the city's flower market.
Along the way, sample local flavours including a traditional noodle soup, followed by a stop at Maison Marou for a cup of Vietnamese chocolate.

Depart Ho Chi Minh City for Ben Tre in the Mekong Delta, a region characterised by waterways, coconut groves and traditional village life.
Visit the home of Mr Muoi Nghiep to see the traditional production of coconut rice paper before continuing through the coconut groves to a local workshop. Learn about the various stages of coconut processing, from husking to removing the peel by hand. Continue by small boat to a local bee garden where you can sample tropical fruit and honey tea while listening to local music. Visit a traditional coconut candy workshop before seeing how farmers produce traditional sleeping mats. There will be a choice of cycling along rural tracks, travelling by xe loi (rickshaw) through the countryside or simply taking time at leisure.
Later, board a traditional rowboat and travel along a shaded canal lined with palm trees before stopping for lunch at the Green Garden Riverside Restaurant. Return to Ben Tre by motorboat and meet your driver for the journey back to Ho Chi Minh City.

After breakfast and check-out, transfer by private vehicle to Ho Chi Minh City Airport for your onward flight, bringing your Vietnam journey to a close.
Flight schedule to be advised. Hotel check-out by 12:00.

• 24/7 local operator support in Vietnam & Cambodia
• 9 nights' accommodation in carefully selected hotels
• 9 breakfasts
• 3 lunches
• 2 dinners
• Domestic flights: Hanoi-Danang-Ho Chi Minh City
• Fast Track arrival assistance in Hanoi
• One-hour traditional massage in Hanoi
• All sightseeing and entrance fees as specified
• Overnight private charter cruise in Lan Ha Bay
• Local boat services and cycling activities as specified
• Private air-conditioned transfers and transportation throughout
• English-speaking local guides and entrance fees for all included sightseeing
• All sightseeing, excursions and cultural experiences as outlined in the itinerary
• Entrance fees to included sites
• Travel Notes - issued by Innovative Travel

• International airfares
• Optional tours and excursions
• Porterage
• Tipping/Gratuities (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline)
• Personal Expenses
• Hotel charges for minibar or any extra charges
• Visas (unless specified)
• Travel Insurance (compulsory)
• Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above