Vividly Yours, Vietnam

Discover the dramatic limestone karst formations of the UNESCO-listed Halong Bay, on this leisurely overnight cruise. Head to the Port of Hon Gai to board your cruise. Relish lunch and participate in a quick safety briefing as you sail to the lesser known, yet equally picturesque Bai Tu Long Bay. Take in the scenic vistas of forested cliffs, hidden caves and stunning beaches in the Vung Dang-Cong Dam area. Set off on a kayaking adventure among the karst cliffs before you enjoy a dinner onboard and retire for the night. Wake up early the next day to catch the gorgeous sunrise over the bay from the upper deck. Fuel up with a hearty breakfast as you cruise to the island of Cong Do. Step ashore to explore the limestone stalactites and stalagmites at the well-hidden Thien Canh Son Cave. Afterwards, relish a buffet lunch onboard as you head back. Disembark and drive to your onward destination. (Duration: 2 Days/1 Night; Shared Activity; All Meals Included; Fitness Level: Moderate; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance)

Accompany your local expert through the narrow lanes of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hoi An, which served as a prosperous trading port from the 15th century to the 19th century. Stroll through the pedestrian-only streets of this well-preserved architectural heritage passing by various buildings, temples, merchant houses, and pagodas showcasing French, Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences. Walk across the 400-year-old Japanese covered bridge over the stream as your guide narrates its history. Head on to the Assembly Hall of the Chaozhou Chinese Congregation for a closer look at the intricate wood carvings on the walls and beams. Explore the vibrant local market, past stalls displaying colorful wares, spices, and exotic fruits, that is particularly famous for its locally produced silk and tailors who even have a section of the market dedicated to them. (Half Day; Fixed Time: Yes; Time of Day: 0900/1400; Duration: 2 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Easy.

Explore Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam’s largest and busiest city, as you walk past boulevards lined by colonial French buildings. Discover fine examples of French architecture such as the iconic Saigon Opera House, CIA building, and the Central Post Office designed by architect Gustav Eiffel of the Eiffel Tower fame. Admire the neo-Romanesque features of Notre Dame Cathedral nearby before you stroll through lush gardens and secret rooms of the Independence Palace. Hop over to Nam Ky Khoi Nghia street and pass by the regal Supreme Court building. Walk through the colorful Ben Thanh market, stopping for coffee at a small cafe. Admire the boat-shaped Nguyen Van Hao’s building built by a rich businessman in 1933 pausing to click pictures. Stop by the Maison Marou for a little history lesson and a tasting session of the best Vietnamese chocolate. Stroll through Le Thi Hong Gam Street, the Fine Arts Museum, and Le Cong Kieu Street browsing through antique shops. After the walk, unwind with a craft beer at the Pasteur Street Brewing Company, or with traditional tea at Villa Downtown Royal Antique, or local lunch at a hidden restaurant. (4 hours from 0830 hrs or 1330hrs, Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Easy; Notre Dame Cathedral permits outside visits only due to renovation until 2023; Chocolate tasting at Maison Marou only on Saturday on own account; Fine Arts Museum is closed on Monday)