Vietnam Extension: North Vietnam

Discover the many faces of Hanoi, beginning at peaceful West Lake, where elegant cafés and leafy boulevards create a striking contrast to the city's energetic streets. Visit the historic Tran Quoc Pagoda, one of Vietnam's oldest Buddhist temples, before passing the impressive Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the iconic One Pillar Pagoda. Pause for coffee at the renowned Manzi Café, a stylish colonial villa showcasing Hanoi's contemporary arts scene.
As evening falls, venture into the bustling Old Quarter on a guided street food experience. Wander through the narrow laneways while sampling local favourites including freshly prepared banh cuon, the famous Vietnamese banh mi, locally brewed bia hoi and authentic pho. Finish with Hanoi's legendary ice cream overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake before continuing to explore the city's vibrant nightlife at your own pace.

Leave the capital behind and travel into the spectacular mountains of Mai Chau, where winding roads reveal lush valleys, limestone peaks and traditional farming villages.
On arrival, take a leisurely walk through the White Thai villages of Pom Coong, Lac, Na Phon, Na Thia and Chieng Chau. Wander along village paths bordered by rice paddies and stilt houses, gaining an insight into the region's rich cultural traditions and relaxed rural lifestyle.

Travel into the surrounding highlands to Na Bai Village before setting out on a scenic walk through terraced rice fields, corn plantations and forested mountain trails. The route leads to the beautiful Tat Nang Waterfall, a three-tiered cascade hidden amongst dense tropical vegetation and steeped in local legend. Continue to Phu Mau Village where lunch is served in a traditional local home, offering a genuine glimpse into village life before returning to Mai Chau.

Journey through Northern Vietnam's picturesque countryside to Ninh Binh, a region celebrated for its towering limestone karsts, peaceful waterways and emerald-green rice fields.
Explore the surrounding villages by bicycle, following quiet country roads through a landscape dotted with water buffalo, vegetable gardens and dramatic limestone formations. The ride concludes at a welcoming local family home where a traditional lunch is prepared using regional recipes. There is also the opportunity to spend time with your hosts and learn more about everyday life in rural Vietnam.

Transfer to Tuan Chau Pier and board your overnight cruise through the tranquil waters of Lan Ha Bay, one of Vietnam's most spectacular coastal landscapes.
Cruise amongst thousands of limestone islands while lunch is served on board. Later, visit the peaceful Viet Hai Village on Cat Ba Island by bicycle (or electric vehicle), passing lush countryside and traditional homes. Back on board, watch a Vietnamese cooking demonstration or simply relax on deck as the sun sets across the bay before dinner is served.

Start the morning with an optional Tai Chi session on the sundeck as the bay slowly comes to life.
Later, explore the peaceful Ao Ech area by kayak or take the opportunity for a swim amongst the limestone islands. Return to the cruise for brunch while sailing back to the harbour, taking in the final views of Lan Ha Bay before disembarking and transferring to Hanoi city or Noi Bai International Airport for your onward journey.

• 24/7 local operator support in Vietnam & Cambodia
• 5 nights' accommodation in carefully selected hotels
• 1 night on Lan Ha Bay Cruise
• 6 breakfasts
• 4 lunches
• 1 brunch
• 1 dinner
• Private airport transfers and touring as specified
• English-speaking local guides (except road transfer to/from Lan Ha Bay cruise)
• Guided sightseeing and entrance fees as per itinerary
• Walking and cycling excursions in Mai Chau, Ninh Binh and Lan Ha Bay
• Vietnam 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