Grand Tour of Vietnam and Cambodia

ITINERARY

17th February 2027 –   Hanoi Arrival

• VIP Fast track service at Noi Bai airport:
  • Upon arrival, you will be met and welcomed at the Arrivals gate for assistance with immigration procedures and landing visa, checking and sorting baggage at the luggage belt, custom baggage declaration and escorting you to the pick-up point to meet with your guide & vehicle to transfer you to your hotel. 
• Transfer to your Hotel for check in. 
• Upon arrival at the hotel, enjoy your welcome gift and some time at your own leisure.
• (Early check-in on request / not included in the tour price)
• Rest of the day at leisure
• Overnight in Hanoi.
• Accommodation: Grand Mercure Hanoi
• Meals: None

18th February 2027 – Hanoi

• Enjoy breakfast before embarking on your full day of sightseeing. 
• Sightseeing in Hanoi (6 hours):
  • Although it is the modern-day capital of Vietnam, Hanoi still retains the mystery and charm of past centuries, with its narrow lanes and traditional shop houses. Begin with an exploration of the Museum of Ethnology (closed on Mondays – alternative to visit Vietnamese Women’s Museum). This museum showcases art, traditional clothing, and reconstructions of traditional longhouses from 54 different ethnic groups. Afterwards head to the Temple of Literature with its walled courtyards and graceful gateways. Founded in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius, this was also the site of Vietnam’s first university. Continue to visit Ho Chi Minh Memorial Complex where the Vietnamese people honor the country Great Father. 
  • Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (outside only) which contains the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh; and Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House where Ho Chi Minh lived from 1958 until his final days in 1969. Preserved in the same condition as during his life, it may be viewed through the windows. Following by the miniature 11th century One Pillar Pagoda which was rebuilt after being destroyed by the French in 1954. In the late afternoon, visit Hoan Kiem Lake which contains an islet with the tiny Tortoise Pagoda and enjoy the coffee. Take the green electric buggy to the Old Quarter.
• Evening Enjoy Water Puppet Show:
  • See a Water Puppet Show, a fantastic art form originating in northern Vietnam, best seen in Hanoi.
• Restaurants: Ngon Villa Hanoi (Lunch – All you can eat Menu), 
• Welcome Cocktails followed by Dinner at Koto Van Mieu restaurant 
• Overnight in Hanoi.
• Accommodation: Grand Mercure Hanoi
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

19th February 2027 – Hanoi – Halong cruise

• After breakfast, check out of your hotel before being picked up for your transfer to Halong.
• By vehicle from Hanoi (city) to Halong Bay (160 kms):
  • Stop en-route for stretch your legs and use the restroom at one of the souvenir shop for charity.
• Transfer to/from Tuan Chau Marina Port (10 kms)
• Cruise aboard Catherine Cruise through Halong Bay (our guide will assist clients on board)
• 11:45 Arrival in Catherine Cruise’s Lounge at Tuan Chau marina, you enjoy a Catherine homemade welcome drink and meet the crew.
• 12:15 Check-in cabins.
• 12:30 The cruise manager will give you a short cruise briefing and safety guide.
• 12:45 Enjoy your lunch in the dining room 2nd floor.
• 14:30 Visit Sung Sot Cave – the largest cave in Halong Bay which is in the center of the UNESCO World Heritage area (around 700 steps up and down). Rubber shoes and sandals are highly recommended.
• 15:45 You continue to visit Titop Island for hiking or swimming (Towels are supplied).
• 17:30 Relax with Happy Hour promotion (Buy One Get One Free) and join in Cooking demonstration.
• 19:15 Fine dining with set menu is served in dining 4th floor.
• 20:45 Bar shows on sundeck and Happy hour promotion. Have squid fishing or play mini-golf as well as spa services. Overnight on cruise.
• Restaurant: Catherine Cruise / Restaurant (Lunch & Dinner)
• Overnight in Cruise.
• Accommodation: Catherine Cruise
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

20th February 2027 – Halong cruise – Danang

• 06:15 Start your wonderful day with Tai Chi class on the sundeck.
• 06:45 Enjoy your light breakfast in the restaurant.
• 07:45 Time to explore the spectacular beauty of Halong Bay by kayaking/sampan boat at Luon Cave.
• 09:15 Room check-out: After visiting the cave, return to our Catherine Cruise to pack your luggage and room key return to reception 1st floor
• 09:45 Full brunch buffet is served in the dining room 2nd floor. Settle your bills at the reception counter.
• 10:45 Disembark Catherine vessel at Tuan Chau marina. End of service.
• Trip notes: The itinerary is subject to change due to weather or tide conditions, without prior notice.
• Upon arrival to Tuan Chau International Port, you will be picked up by vehicle from Halong to Hanoi (Noi Bai Airport) (160 kms).
• Upon arrival to Noi Bai Airport, board your flight to Danang. Flight HAN-DAD (economy) by VN AIRLINES.
• Upon arrival in Danang, you will be met by your local guide and transferred to your hotel.
• Restaurant: Dinner at hotel (Set Western menu – on the beach or in the garden set up)
• Overnight in Danang.
• Accommodation: Melia Danang Beach Resort 
• Meals: Light Breakfast, Brunch & Dinner

21st February 2027 – Danang

• Enjoy breakfast and your morning at leisure. 
• MORNING SEMINAR 9 AM TO 12 NOON
• In the afternoon, transfer to have lunch at Hoi An.
• Architectural Walking Tour of Hoi An (2 hours):
  • Together with a local expert, gain an insider’s guide into the life and architecture of the picture-perfect old town of Hoi An. Meet a local researcher who specialises in the preservation of Hoi An, a South-East Asian trading port during the 16th to 19th centuries. Now a Unesco World Heritage Site, the town is home to beautiful temples, pagodas and ancient homes that display a unique blend of local and foreign influences including French, Japanese and Chinese. Take a slow stroll through the narrow winding streets of the old quarter to experience the lifestyle of the local people. Pass by the sleepy river full of traditional fishing boats, ochre-hued stone houses, and shopfronts full of brightly colored silk lanterns. Along the way visit some of the most significant places including the Fujian temple, an old merchant’s house, and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge with its pagoda.  As you walk, your Hoi An expert will unveil the history and traditions of this beautifully preserved town.
• Thu Bon River Sunset Cruise (1.5 hours):
  • In the late afternoon board the local boat, sit back and begin the leisurely cruise along the Thu Bon River. Pass by the beautiful Hoi An countryside and witness scenes of local riverside life as the sun slowly sets.
• A night lantern lighting in Hoi An:
  • When the sky gets dark, you will immerse yourself in the sparkling and fanciful space inside Hoi An old town. While the boat sail slowly on the river, you will gently drop lanterns into the river and wish for good things. The boat trip becomes splendid with thousands of lanterns on Hoai river. You will get to enjoy views of the ancient town at night.
• Restaurant: The Field Hoi An Restaurant & Bar (Lunch– Set Menu) & The Faifo restaurant (Dinner – set Menu)
• Overnight in Danang.
• Accommodation:  Melia Danang Beach Resort
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

22nd February 2027 – Danang – Hue

• Enjoy breakfast before your transfer to Hue. 
• Twisting winding curves, sudden bends, views that take your breath away – welcome to the Hai Van Pass. We get to drive along this incredible mountain pass on the way to Hue.
• Full day sightseeing in Hue:
  • Hue served as the capital of Vietnam for more than 140 years. It houses ancient temples, imperial buildings and French-style edifices. It was established in the 17th century. 
  • Visit one of the oldest pagoda which is called Thien Mu Pagoda. Its iconic seven-story pagoda is regarded as the unofficial symbol of the city and the temple has often been the subject of folk rhymes about Hue. 
  • Visit the Royal Imperial City, located in the heart of Hue is the Imperial Citadel, a vast complex built in the early 19th century and modeled after the Forbidden City of Peking. The original walls stretched for 10 km and were surrounded by a wide moat. Today, most of the buildings have been destroyed due to bombing during the Vietnam-American War, but the monuments that remain provide a fascinating glimpse into the court life of the Nguyen Dynasty. 
  • Next, venture into the countryside around Hue to the Imperial Tomb of Tu Duc. Tu Duc, the longest reigning Vietnamese emperor, designed and built this elegant tomb during his lifetime, using it as a retreat for meditation, reading and theatre performances. Take some time to soak in the tranquil atmosphere, wandering among the gracefully proportioned pavilions, courtyards, and lotus ponds. 
• By vehicle, transfer from Hue to Danang.
• Restaurant: Lunch (Ancient Hue restaurant) & Dinner (Ngon Thi Hoa restaurant)
• Overnight in Danang.
• Accommodation: Melia Danang Beach Resort
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

23rd February 2027 – Danang – Saigon

• After breakfast and checking out of your hotel you will be picked up for your transfer (15 kms) to the airport for your flight to Saigon.
• Upon arrival in Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), you will be met by your local guide and transferred to your hotel.
• Hidden Saigon at Night (5 hours):
  • Transfer to the Saigon Opera House, the city’s cultural and architectural icon, built by the French in 1898. Sit back in your seat in the oval auditorium and get ready to watch a fascinating cultural show depicting Vietnamese village life. The show is an energetic mix of contemporary dance, traditional folk music and breathtaking acrobatic acts using long bamboo poles. The performance has generated so much enthusiasm that part of the crew is currently on a tour of Europe. Or enjoying the typical Vietnamese Traditional music show. 
• After the show take a walk to a restaurant popular with the locals. Soak up the lively atmosphere as you sample some delicious Vietnamese street food. The evening ends in a hidden coffee shop where you can sit back with a drink and listen to talented local musicians perform Vietnamese and Western songs. Dinner will be included.
• Overnight in Saigon.
• Accommodation: Le Meridien Saigon
• Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

24th February 2027 – Saigon

• After breakfast at your hotel, embark on your full day sightseeing tour of Saigon.
• Good Morning Saigon (Tour will start early morning – 2 hours):
  • Wake up with the locals and soak in the sights and sounds of Saigon in the early morning. Set off not long after the sun has risen and witness the city slowly waking up around you.  Spend some time sipping cafe da, a Vietnamese iced coffee at the outdoor “bird cafe” in one of the city’s most attractive parks. This is a great place to mingle with the locals and even join in the early morning chatter. Saigon’s bird lovers flock here on a daily basis to show off their prized birds and to listen to the singing. They sit on the bench-lined walkways shaded by ancient towering trees exchanging expertise and sharing gossip.  Stroll through to the adjacent park and witness the locals going about their daily exercise routines. Some practice Tai Chi while others jog and challenge each other to games of badminton. Continue walking to an old dim sum shop, a popular and bustling eatery in the neighborhood. Sit among the locals and sample the same breakfast they enjoy every day – an assortment of tasty dim sum with steamed dumplings, buns and rolls. After a delicious breakfast, return to your hotel as the locals set off to begin their daily work.
• Sightseeing in Saigon (4 hours):
  • A vibrant metropolis, Saigon teems with energy, activity and motion. Everywhere you look, you see the convergence of traditional and modern life. Begin the trip into modern history with a tour of the Reunification Palace. Formerly the Independence Palace of the South Vietnamese president, this 60s style building was famously stormed by tanks on April 30, 1975 signifying the fall of South Vietnam. It has been preserved in its original state, and the original tanks remain on display near the entrance gates. 
  • Afterwards, drive to the historic centre to visit the Emperor of Jade Pagoda, one of Saigon’s most interesting pagodas.  Proceed to pay a quick visit to the neo-Romanesque Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office. Pass by the classic European-style landmarks such as the ornate City Hall (Hotel De Ville), the old Opera House (both may only be viewed from the outside). Finally, end up at the central Ben Thanh Market, where vendors display a vast array of goods and handicrafts, appealing to every taste.
• Sunset by Speedboat with Evening Cocktail (4 hours):
  • Enjoy an evening sunset cruise along the river and witness the modern and historic sides of Saigon. In the early evening board a speedboat for a cruise along the biggest river in the city. Sit back and relax as you cruise through differing landscapes and past scenes of local riverside life. Pass under important bridges such as Saigon Bridge and Thu Thiem Bridge, the main gateway to the bustling area. 
  • Along the riverbank contemporary urban complexes stand in stark contrast to the historical Nha Rong port where Ho Chi Minh left Vietnam in the early 20th century. As the sun goes down, witness the night lights of the city – showing you a totally different face of crowded Saigon. After the cruise, sit down at a picturesque riverside restaurant & bar. Sip the signature cocktail and enjoy a delicious dinner cooked from organic vegetables from Dalat and fresh seafood flown directly from Phu Quoc Island. After dinner, your driver and guide will pick you up and transfer you back to your hotel.
• Transfer to/from the restaurants.
• Restaurant: Mandarine (Lunch – Set Menu), The Deck Restaurant (Dinner – Set Dinner)
• Overnight in Saigon.
• Accommodation: Le Meridien Saigon
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

25th February 2027 – Saigon

• After breakfast at your hotel, embark on another full day sightseeing tour of Saigon.
• Cooking Class at Hoa Tuc with market visit (3 hours):
  • This trip is specially designed for those who would like to experience the Vietnamese culture, authentic & contemporary taste of Vietnamese food. Join us for a Gourmet Trip, you will experience the Vietnam local market to purchase your ingredients, then enjoy a hands-on cooking class.
• Local Market visit 
  • Explore the colorful and vibrant Tan Dinh market with our Vietnamese Chef to purchase the necessary ingredients for the cooking lesson. Then, our Chef will bring you back by your private vehicle.
• Hands-on cooking class (9:00 am-12:00 pm):
  • The kitchenware is ready. Participants cook, enjoy the delicious Vietnamese meal. MSG is prohibited in our recipe. So, don’t worry!
  • The seasonal dessert is our sweet treat to complete the cooking journey. We will also give you all the detailed recipes at the end of the class, it would not only help you to concentrate and enjoy cooking experience, but you could re-make the food at home.
• Optional Excursion to Cu Chi Tunnels (5.5 hours):
  • Never discovered by American forces, the Cu Chi Tunnels were an important Vietcong base during the American War. Stretching over 200 km, this incredible underground network, dug by hand out of hard laterite, connected command posts, hospitals, shelter and weapons factories. Today, walk through the area and learn about the day to day life of the Vietcong, bear witness to the cleverly disguised entrances and elaborate booby-traps, and even venture inside the tunnels, some of which have been modified to accommodate tourists.
• Restaurant: Hoa Tuc Restaurant (Lunch included during the cooking class), Vietnam House (Dinner – set menu)
• Overnight in Saigon.
• Accommodation: Le Meridien Saigon
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

26th February 2027 – Saigon

• After breakfast at your hotel, explore on your own
• MORNING SEMINAR 9 AM TO 12 NOON
• Overnight in Saigon.
• Accommodation: Le Meridien Saigon
• Meals: Breakfast

27th February 2027 – Saigon – Siem Reap

• After breakfast and checking out of your hotel you will be picked up for your transfer (15 kms) to the airport for your flight to Siem Reap.
• Saigon International Departure Airport Fast Track Service:
  • On arrival at the airport, our representative will take your tickets, passport and luggage, and will collect the boarding pass on your behalf. You will then be assisted through immigration to the Waiting Lounge until your flight is ready to board.
• Arrival in Siem Reap.
• Welcome to the Kingdom of Cambodia! 
• Upon arrival in Siem Reap, you will be met by your local guide and transferred to your hotel for refreshments. VIP fast-track arrival services. 
• Cambodia is much more than temples. Its history is both inspiring and sobering, uplifting and heartbreaking. 
• Visit Siem Reap’s magnificent temples, abandoned centuries ago by the Khmer kingdom and now surrounded by its lush forests. 
• Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner with traditional show at Por Cuisine (or similar).
• Overnight in Siem Reap.
• Accommodation: Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort
• Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

28th February 2027 – Siem Reap

• Wake before sunrise this morning and make the 15-minute journey with your guide by tuk tuk to Angkor Wat, a legendary UNESCO World Heritage Site. Said by some to symbolize the soul of the Khmer people, the magnificent temple was built during the reign of King Suryavaman II in the early 12th century. Historians believe that many of the fascinating bas reliefs and stone carvings immortalize many of the mighty king’s wars. Images of Apsara dancers decorate the five famous towers which replicate the universe according to Hindu mythology. 
• Your guide will take you to a serene viewpoint where you can experience the dramatic sunrise as the first rays of the day kiss the magnificent temple good morning. Continue with your guide to explore the Angkor Wat, one of the world’s most impressive temples constructed between the 9th and 13th centuries and the largest Hindu structure in the world. The temple is home to hundreds of fine carvings of Apsara and Hindu mythology. Stroll around the massive hallways to discover small shrines still in use today by the local people.
• The fortified city of Angkor Thom covers an area of 10 square km. Enclosed by a wall and wide moats; the city includes many of Angkor’s most popular sights. Enter by the monumental South Gate over a causeway lined on either side by statues of demons and gods, each carrying a giant naga. Continue to the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper Kings, former spaces for public ceremonies, both adorned with dramatic bas reliefs. Visit the ruined Baphuon, Royal Enclosure and Phimeanakas before continuing to the mysterious Bayon Temple. In this temple, one of the most popular and compelling in Angkor, explore the galleries of beautifully preserved bas reliefs and ascend narrow stairs to reach the central sanctuary, where giant stone faces smiling enigmatically down from every angle.
• Lunch at a local restaurant (Khmer Set Menu) – Kokor Restaurant.
• This afternoon, continue to visit the picturesque Ta Prohm. This beautiful temple is one of Angkor’s most impressive structures and is overgrown with fig trees, giving a haunting and exotic atmosphere. The magnificent roots of the trees have merged over the centuries with the temple’s huge stone blocks, emphasizing a ‘lost city’ feeling.
• Optional: Visit the APOPO Witness how rats are being trained to save lives! APOPO’s visitor centre gives us the chance to discover the history of conflict in Cambodia and the impact of landmines on the local communities. We’lll even get the opportunity to meet and see the ‘hero-rats’ in action. 
  • Departures: Daily except -Sunday
  • Pick up location: hotel lobby
  • Duration: 1hour
  • (the center will arrange for English local staff to escort)
• This evening, enjoy the Circus Performance SEAT-A (Showtime 8.00-9.00 PM). Pick-up time: 7.30 PM.
  • After having performed in many countries around the world, the talented artistes from the famous Phare Ponleu Selpak in Battambang have now brought their exciting and energetic circus show to Siem Reap. Watch this unique show which combines traditional and modern theatre, music, dance and acrobatics. The beautifully choreographed and energetically performed show tells a story about Cambodian contemporary life in an ever-changing society. 
• Dinner at Sokkhak River Restaurant.
• Overnight in Siem Reap.
• Accommodation: Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

1st March 2027 – Siem Reap

• After breakfast, enjoy morning at leisure. 
•  MORNING SEMINAR 9 AM TO 12 NOON
• Today you’ll visit Kampong Kheang floating village, located on the beautiful Tonle Sap Lake in Cambodia. Today, we invite you on a short excursion on the boat ride to explore this unique village and try the delicious bamboo sticky rice along the way. As we navigate through the calm waters of the lake, you will be mesmerized by the picturesque scenery surrounding the village. The houses here are built on stilts, rising above the water, creating a fascinating sight of a floating community. Our first stop will be at a local family’s house, where you will have the opportunity to witness their daily life. The villagers here rely heavily on fishing and farming as their main source of income. You can observe the skillful fishermen casting their nets and the farmers tending to their crops on floating gardens. On the way back, make a stop by at the lush greenery surrounding spot where bamboo sticky rice is demonstrated and prepared for you to try out. This traditional dish is a local delicacy, and you will have the chance to learn the art of making it. 
• This evening, enjoy your special dinner called ‘Cultural Night’.
• Please watch this: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Z47Lqk2L2kJFQtmIUJGy5PaYT1-tFbXq
• Pre-dinner Cultural Activities
• Farewell dinner
• Overnight in Siem Reap.
• Accommodation: Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort
• Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

2nd March 2027 – Siem Reap departure

• After breakfast and checking out of your hotel enjoy your time at leisure until the transfer time to the airport by air-conditioned vehicle for your departure from Cambodia.
• Meals: Breakfast 

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