Journey Through Vietnam 8165

Journey Through Vietnam 8165

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16 Days From

$5245

Journey Through Vietnam 8165

16 Days Starting in Hanoi, Vietnam and ending in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Visiting: Hanoi, Mai Chau, Hue, Ba Na Hills, Hoi An, Da Lat, Ho Chi Minh City, London

Tour operator:

Brightwater Holidays

Tour code:

BVIE

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Active

Trip Styles:

Small Group

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $5245

NB: Prices correct on 01-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on the "Journey Through Vietnam 8165" and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Vietnam. This tour takes you from the bustling streets of Hanoi to the tranquil rice paddies of Mai Chau, offering a unique glimpse into the daily lives of the White Tai community. Explore the majestic Imperial Citadel in Hue, wander through the enchanting Ba Na Hills, and discover the rich history of Hoi An Ancient Town. Delight in the floral wonders of Da Lat Flower Park and experience the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City. With comfortable coach travel, professional guidance, and a range of included meals, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Vietnam's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Highlights

  • The verdant rice paddies and charming villages to Mai Chau

  • A visit to the UNESCO World Heritage listed Imperial Citadel in Hue

  • Explore the Ba Na Hills and flower garden at Le Jardin D’Amour

  • Hoi An Ancient Town

  • Visit the Da Lat Flower Park, with more than 300 species of flowers

  • Discover the traditional art of paper flower-making in Hue

  • Experience the vibrant flower markets and religious observance in Ho Chi Minh City

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1

Location: Hanoi

Enjoy access to the airport Executive lounge before we depart from London to Hanoi, Vietnam on our overnight flight.

Day 2

Location: Hanoi

Accommodation Name: Thang Long Opera Hotel

Meals Included: Dinner

Upon arrival in Hanoi, we transfer to our hotel and have the rest of the day to relax. We gather this evening for a welcome dinner.

Day 3

Location: Hanoi

Accommodation Name: Thang Long Opera Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning after breakfast we embark on a city tour of Hanoi, the cultural heartbeat of Vietnam. Accompanied by our local guide we explore ancient temples and bustling markets from the exterior we view the Mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh and the Presidential Palace. We later visit the Temple of Literature, founded over 1000 years ago as a temple dedicated to Chinese philosopher Confucius. It later became a school for the elite and eventually what is considered to be the first university in Vietnam. We also visit the Ethnology Museum which focuses in the 54 officially recognised ethnic groups who call Vietnam home.  
We return the hotel in the early afternoon for some time at leisure.  
In the early evening, there is the chance to join an optional ‘Street Eats’ tour. We explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter with our local guide who will pass on their knowledge of Vietnamese cuisine and everyday life, as well as sampling some of the local dishes that may include Banh Trung, Bun Cha, Bai Hoi, Banh Chuoi and Vietnamese Coffee.

Day 4

Location: Mai Chau

Accommodation Name: Mai Chau Ecolodge

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast today we depart Hanoi and travel west through rolling hills, verdant rice paddies and charming villages to Mai Chau, home to a White Tai community (the third largest of the 54 ethnic groups). This afternoon we have a walking tour of Pom Coong, a which offers a more off-the-beaten-track experience compared to better-known villages. Next, we head through paddy fields to the village of Lac 2 where we visit Mrs Thuan, who runs a local workshop set up to support those with disabilities in the village. Here we will have an opportunity to speak with Mrs Thuan and learn about her life and work before enjoying a dyeing class with the chance to dye your own items.

Day 5

Location: Hanoi

Accommodation Name: Thang Long Opera Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning, we depart on a leisurely walk (approximately two hours) through handpicked White Tai villages. Meandering along predominantly paved roads, we will navigate weaving villages, scenic rice fields and idyllic rural landscapes, granting us a first–hand glimpse into the daily lives of the local White Tai community of the area. After lunch we return to Hanoi.

Day 6

Location: Hue

Accommodation Name: Eldora Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast we transfer to the airport for our flight to Hue, where on arrival we visit the Minh Mang Tomb, located on the west bank of the Perfume River.  Said to be one of the most majestic of the Nguyen Dynasty royal tombs, consisting of around 40 palaces, temples and pavilions. There will also be some tie to explore the landscaped gardens, terraces and lakes that surround the complex. 
This afternoon we visit the tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh. The mausoleum was built for the 12th Emperors of the Nguyen dynasty of Vietnam and features a blend of both Vietnamese and western architectural styles

Day 7

Location: Hue

Accommodation Name: Eldora Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning, we depart for a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage listed Imperial Citadel, a vast complex of monuments encompassing a collection of 140 important public buildings, opulent residences and places of worship located on the northern bank of the Huong River. We have some time to explore the remains of the Purple Forbidden City at the centre the former residence of the founding Emperor Gia Long.  Later this morning it’s time to get creative! We join an expert master craftsperson with a wealth of experience as we discover the traditional art of paper flower-making in an informative and interactive class.  We uncover the rich history of the 300-year-old art form traditionally used today as offerings at altars.  
After lunch, we take a short boat ride to view the Thien Mu Pagoda which is situated on a small hill overlooking the Perfume River. This seven story Pagoda is an icon of Vietnam and each of its storeys is dedicated to a Manushi-buddha.  
Later we visit the Ancient Garden House, a traditional residence of the Mandarins who lived in the vicinity of the Imperial City. Thanks to Feng Shui principles, families living in a Garden House were afforded a protective shelter and a more harmonious living with nature.  Each house is highly individual, set within formal gardens surrounded by plants and water features.

Day 8

Location: Ba Na Hills

Accommodation Name: La Siesta Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Today we have a long but rewarding day as we travel from Hue to the Ba Na Hills. On arrival we take a cable car ride to the summit, from where we enjoy spectacular views across the mountains, along with a visit to the Linh Ung Pagoda and the Giant Buddha statue. We then visit the flower garden at Le Jardin D’Amour, located on the top of Chua Mountain, the highest in the Truong Son range with an altitude of 980m. The garden is split into nine smaller areas including Suoi Mo Garden, a gentle sloping garden with panoramic views combining romantic purple arapang flowers and bright yellow daylilies; the Secret Garden, filled with tree lined walkways and the Eden Garden, where we find a variety of plants from around the world.  
After lunch, we visit the 150-metre long Golden Bridge, one of Vietnam’s newest attractions. The bridge is held up by two giant moss-covered hands and allows guests spectacular views of the hills. Due to its French colonial history, this region present a mixture of European and Vietnamese styles. We later continue to Hoi An.

Day 9

Location: Hoi An

Accommodation Name: La Siesta Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning, we explore Hoi An Ancient Town, whose impeccable preservation has earned it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site. On today’s walking tour we will gain an insight into the kaleidoscope of cultures that have shaped this former port city and what keeps it thriving today. Our guide will start by taking us to the iconic 16th Century Japanese covered bridge with pagoda (Chùa Cầu). This bridge is an important symbol of Vietnam’s history and is featured on the 20,000VND note. We will then learn the history behind the bridge’s origin and how it continues to function as a place of worship today. 
Meandering through the ancient town towards our next stop, our guide helps us recognise all the cultures that have influenced the design of the building, both indigenous and foreign. We will then get the opportunity to go into one of Hoi An’s ancient homes where we will meet the 14th generation of the family still living here. 
From vibrant past to bright future, we will finish our tour by understanding the current state of Tailoring within the town and its importance for local businesses.   
The remainder of the day is at leisure. Alternatively, you may wish to join the optional Ky Anh Tunnels Experience. We follow in the footsteps of Mr Ta, one of the wartime witnesses, to discover the tunnel networks. The incredible Ky Anh Tunnel network sits underneath the village of Thach Tan and while there are numerous entrances to the network of tunnels scattered throughout local villages, the main access is found here. In the past, there were as many as 32 kilometres of tunnels stretching through the area, although now the restored sections are much shorter, totalling a few hundred metres.

Day 10

Location: Hoi An

Accommodation Name: La Siesta Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today is free to explore at your leisure. Alternatively, this afternoon you may with to join the optional Vietnamese Cooking Class, including a guided tour of Hoi An’s colourful central market, a boat trip on the Hoi An River and a hands–on cookery class.

Day 11

Location: Da Lat

Accommodation Name: Hotel du Parc

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning after breakfast we transfer to the airport for a flight via Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat in southern Vietnam’s central highlands. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Day 12

Location: Da Lat

Accommodation Name: Hotel du Parc

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Today, after breakfast we visit the picturesque Fresh Garden, considered one of the largest green gardens in Da Lat, where many different flower varieties such as lavender and chrysanthemum are grown. Following our visit, we have the opportunity to visit a local flower field, at a time when lavender and sunflowers will be in bloom. Our final visit of the day is to a hydrangea garden where we can see these beautiful flowers in vast quantities. The elevation of Da Lat at 1500 metres above sea level and the mild temperature make it the ideal location for hydrangeas to flourish.

Day 13

Location: Ho Chi Minh City

Accommodation Name: New World Saigon Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, we visit the Da Lat Flower Park, with more than 300 species of flowers blooming throughout the year. In additional to the stunning floral displays, we also have the chance to see rare species of Bonsai and African cactus.  
 
Later, we transfer to the airport for our flight to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon). Upon arrival, we start our Story of Saigon tour with a visit to the War Remnants Museum. Here, our guide will tell the story of the city’s darkest and most tragic hours during the Vietnam War. The museum contains displays of military aircraft, weaponry and many photographs. Although many of Vietnam’s 90 million people are now too young to remember the war, its legacy is still felt strongly across Vietnamese society.

Day 14

Location: Ho Chi Minh City

Accommodation Name: New World Saigon Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today we have an early start, as on today’s walking tour we immerse ourselves in the local culture, witnessing the lives of resident population through their daily exercise routines, vibrant flower markets and religious observance, taking time to understand the history behind the places we visit. Our first stop is a central park where we observe the morning habits of the locals before heading for a nearby monument commemorating a revered monk who made the ultimate sacrifice for his beliefs. We then continue on to a famous flower market where we meander through the maze of sights and scents, understanding the significance and importance of different flowers as we go. We’ll dig further into the market and also see some of the snacks on offer to the morning shoppers and sellers. Later, we head to a local coffee shop where we will have the chance to sample a small, yet potent, cup of Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk. Well caffeinated, we then head to a temple of religious significance where we learn how the locals pray and worship. Here our guide will acquaint us with the religious culture as we watch coils of incense that can burn for three days perfuming the air and sending the locals prayers skywards. 
This afternoon is at your leisure. Alternative you may wish to join the optional Bean to Bar Chocolate Tasting experience at Maison Marou, learning all about what it takes to make one of the world most popular treats.  
We later reconvene for a farewell dinner

Day 15

Location: London

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning is at leisure before we transfer to the airport in time for our return flight to London.

Day 16

Location: London

Arrive in London.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is included as part of the tour package.

  • Meals as per the itinerary

    Meals are provided according to the itinerary.

  • Comfortable coach travel throughout

    Comfortable coach travel is included for the duration of the tour.

  • All visits as outlined in the itinerary

    All visits mentioned in the itinerary are included in the tour.

  • Services of a professional tour manager

    A professional tour manager will be available throughout the tour.

What's Not Included

  • Optional Tours

    Optional tours such as the 'Street Eats' tour, Ky Anh Tunnels Experience, and Vietnamese Cooking Class are not included.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and should be arranged separately.

  • International Flights

    International flights to and from Vietnam are not included in the tour package.

Mode of Transport

Travel comfortably throughout the tour with coach transportation included.

Accommodation

Accommodation details are not provided in the tour information.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of transportation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes comfortable coach travel throughout the journey.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, meals are included as per the itinerary.

  • Is there a professional guide accompanying the tour?

    Yes, the services of a professional tour manager are included in the tour.

  • What kind of activities can we expect in Mai Chau?

    In Mai Chau, you will have a walking tour of Pom Coong village, visit a local workshop in Lac 2 village, and participate in a dyeing class.

  • What can we expect to see in the Ba Na Hills?

    In the Ba Na Hills, you will take a cable car ride to the summit, visit the Linh Ung Pagoda, the Giant Buddha statue, and the flower garden at Le Jardin D’Amour. You will also visit the Golden Bridge.

  • What is special about the visit to Hoi An Ancient Town?

    In Hoi An Ancient Town, you will explore its well-preserved architecture, visit the iconic Japanese covered bridge, and learn about the town's history and cultural influences.

  • What is included in the visit to Da Lat?

    In Da Lat, you will visit the Fresh Garden, a local flower field, a hydrangea garden, and the Da Lat Flower Park, which features over 300 species of flowers.

  • What will we experience during the Story of Saigon tour?

    During the Story of Saigon tour, you will visit the War Remnants Museum and learn about the Vietnam War's impact on the city and its people.

  • Will I receive more details of the holiday before I travel?

    You will receive detailed joining instructions around 10 days prior to you departure, but you are of course welcome to contact us at any time should you have any queries.

  • What facilities do your coaches have?

    Generally, our coaches have reclining seats, air-conditioning and toilets, however this cannot always be guaranteed as sometimes we have to use smaller vehicles. Toilets are recommended for emergency use only and regular comfort stops will be made throughout your holiday while travelling around.

  • Do I have to go on the included excursions?

    Absolutely not. You are more than welcome to spend the day at your hotel or exploring independently should you wish. All we ask is that you inform your Tour Manager, so they are not left waiting for you to join the group.

  • Is there time to relax?

    Although our itineraries may seem jam-packed, boasting access to some of the most exclusive sites across the UK and beyond, a Brightwater Holiday is just that: a holiday. Each trip will counter in more than enough free-time for you to explore places at your own leisure. And with most nights and the majority of meals being included in our tour prices, you can relax in hand-picked accommodation.

  • Do I need to be an expert?

    Absolutely not! Although some of our tours are specifically focused on one thing, all you need to enjoy a Brightwater holiday is interest and bags of enthusiasm! Even on our most specialist tours, we take travellers from all skill levels, from experts to beginners.

  • How fit or active do I need to be for one of your holidays?

    You need to be able to get on and off the coach unassisted, and most – but not all – coaches have a kneel facility that lowers the front step for ease of boarding

  • Do you have self-drive holidays?

    Yes, we do – tailored to your exact requirements!

  • What’s the luggage allowance on your coaches?

    There’s no fixed limit, but we generally say one large suitcase to go in the luggage compartment and a smaller bag that you can take onto the coach with you. For flight-inclusive holidays, we include a luggage allowance of at least 20kg.

  • Where are your departure points?

    UK garden holidays generally depart from London, with additional pick-ups depending on the route of the coach, while holidays to Scotland depart from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth, with Dundee, Inverness and Aberdeen sometimes included. All Eurostar holidays depart from London St. Pancras and flight-inclusive holidays depart from one or more of the main London airports, with regional flights .

  • What about the company that will be kept?

    For single travellers, those with a companion or even those travelling in a larger group, you'll find that the signature of any Brightwater Holiday is the company. You won't ever be travelling with a group of strangers, instead, you'll find yourself surrounded by like-minded people with a strong shared interest who will soon become your firm friends.

  • What is a Brightwater Holiday?

    Bursting with enthralling, educational and enlightening itineraries, a Brightwater Holiday, by its very nature, is packed with bucket-list-worthy destinations, behind the scenes passes and expert-led experiences. From creating bespoke quality garden and special interest tours for groups and individuals alike, we have made it our business to make our guests' travel dreams come true.

  • Why is there a single supplement?

    Unfortunately, single room supplements are charges that are often imposed on us as a company when we book rooms for group holidays. However, most hotels do charge less for single occupancy, and we always pass this saving on to our solo travellers in the form of a modest single supplement.

  • How much are your optional excursions?

    Prices start from as little as £20, but please contact our friendly team for questions about specific itineraries or excursions.

  • Can I pre-book my coach seats?

    Yes, you can. In the case of front seats, guests with limited mobility are given priority. Please get in touch with our friendly team to discuss any requirements you may have.

  • How to get there? Easy!

    With a Brightwater Holiday, the journey is just as important as the destination and we make getting you to your tour start point easy. From organising group flights and individual travel plans, to offering accessible local departure and pick-up points, we go out of our way to ensure that your journey is as convenient and hassle-free as it can be.

  • Do I need to have travel insurance?

    Travel insurance is required for all overseas holidays and is also strongly recommended for UK holidays – primarily to protect yourself against cancellation charges should you be unable to travel.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Brightwater Holidays offers great value

28-Nov-2019

I would highly recommend Brightwater Holidays. It offers excellent service and value for money. This was my first tour as I normally arrange holidays myself, but this tour - which was to the gardens of Kent and Sussex - was a very pleasant change of pace.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Brightwater Holidays Customer  

My experience with Brightwater Holidays

08-Aug-2019

The tour was well managed, the sites visited were all interesting and linked to the theme of the Picts and their place in history, the hotel was comfortable and the coach journeys were well paced. I have been with Brightwater before and will certainly travel with them again

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Alan Hawkes (Google Reviewer)  

We were on the Tour...

28-Aug-2022

We were on the Tour of the Outer Hebrides. We had a great experience, in no small part due to the excellence of the tour manager and driver.

Brightwater Holidays Custome  

Wonderful experience with brilliant information

31-Jul-2019

The most important factor was an amazing guide in Alastair Walker whose knowledge and care for clients was fantastic. The whole trips are superbly organised

Feefo Trusted Reviews
David MacLennan (Google Reviewer)  

Noted a comment on taking...

23-Aug-2023

Noted a comment on taking coaches on A814 by a local person who didn't know the facts: When the A82 was blocked and the POLICE divert you onto that road you do as instructed not what a you know are tight roads but they only way to your destination as intructed by officials. We know this route is not suitable for large vehicles but the driver does as instructed by someone in authority.

Eric Webb (Google Reviewer)  

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday...

07-Oct-2023

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday not so good. Various 'issues' to do with scheduling and organisation. I'm happy to report however that - after an interval - a letter expressing disappointment brought a full response - including a generous refund. So - with fingers slightly crossed - we'll be booking with Brightwater again in due course.

Kevin Barrett (Google Reviewer)  

The recent tour in Northumberland...

30-Sep-2023

The recent tour in Northumberland turned out to be a shambles. Our South London driver took us to Newcastle, but no guide to meet us. Next day still no guide and the bus driver attempted to salvage the tour the best he could despite having no knowledge of the attractions. Fortunately one of the passengers Googled the tides for Holy Island. No holiday guide ever showed up. Coach and hotel were fine. Do these people only offer self guided tours? Take Shearings next time.

ALEXANDRA MCQUEEN (Google Reviewer)  

Been trying to get a...

17-Oct-2023

Been trying to get a reply from them for over a week. Booked Xmas tour, confirmation said pick up subject to numbers, they never said anything when booking and theyve been paid in full. Would not recommend!

Dp Green (Google Reviewer)  

I had heard this company...

20-Feb-2024

I had heard this company was a nightmare to deal with, but thought I'd give it a go. Signed up for a tour, then emailed them about how to pay off the balance. No response to 3 emails. I've never encountered a tour company that ignored questions on how to pay off a balance. Looked into other reviews and found many complaints about cancelled tours and refusals to refund deposits.

Kieran Thompson (Google Reviewer)  

Two of your tour busses...

26-Jul-2021

Two of your tour busses used the A814 from Garelochhead to Arrochar on 24th July 2021. This route is not suitable for large vehicles and your drivers should not have taken the huge coaches that way. There are clear signs at both ends of the road indicating it is not suitable for HGV's. Our car had to go off into the soft verge to allow your coaches to pass. Please amend your routes to avoid this road in future.

1 Select your preferred date

Thursday - Friday

Apr 24, 2025 - May 09, 2025
$5567

Including UK Flights

Friday - Saturday

Apr 25, 2025 - May 10, 2025
$5245
Prices last published on 31-Oct-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Brightwater Holidays allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform brightwater holidays, 25 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Brightwater Holidays requires a minimum deposit of 15% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of brightwater holidays charges.

    At 40 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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