EXPERIENCE OVERVIEW
Immerse yourself in incredible experiences on this expertly led cultural adventure from Hanoi in northern Vietnam to Siem Reap in Cambodia. You’ll explore limestone cliffs and enjoy sundowners on deck as you cruise Ha Long Bay; discover culture and history in Hoi An; witness street life in vibrant Ho Chi Minh City; and slow down on the serene waterways of the Mekong Delta. Finally, you’ll journey to Siem Reap, staying at the intimate Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa – the perfect base to visit one of the great surviving archaeological wonders, the mesmerising temple complex of Angkor.
Profile
â€13 nights in premium accommodation including one night aboard a traditionally handcrafted boat on Ha Long Bay â€Travel by private air-conditioned minibus, three flights and boat â€Group normally 4 to 16 plus leader
At a Glance
â€13 nights in premium accommodation including one night aboard a traditionally handcrafted boat on Ha Long Bay â€Travel by private air-conditioned minibus, three flights and boat â€Group normally 4 to 16 plus leader
Trip For You
This Premium Adventure is rated Activity Level 1 (Leisurely). For more on our trip gradings, visit our Activity Level Guidelines page.
This is not a rushed trip and although there are early starts, the focus is on spending time in each area in comfort, with few long road journeys. Both Vietnam and Cambodia are humid, which can be tiring as we explore some areas on foot. We have included three flights to keep travelling time to a minimum but please be aware that delays can occur.
Group Description
The trip is led by locally qualified Vietnamese and Cambodian English-speaking leaders, chosen for their experience and great customer feedback.
Eating Drinking
All breakfasts, seven lunches and seven dinners are included.
Thanks to the tropical climate, long coast and gigantic range of mountains, Vietnam is blessed with a variety of culinary offerings, and maintains a reputation as one of the healthiest, most delicious cuisines in the world.
Vietnamese food relies on fresh fish, vegetables, rice and a myriad of verdant herbs and spices; lemongrass, ginger, basil and lime all play an important role in the cuisine. The Chinese and French influence is felt throughout the country where you are just as likely to be offered a banh mi (stuffed baguette) as you are a steaming bowl of pho (noodle soup).
Each dish is prepared with the Asian principle of Wu Xing (the five elements) in mind; meaning the perfect combination of spicy, sour, bitter, salty and sweet is the aim. Be sure to also seek out the national beverages: Vietnamese coffee is served iced and sweet with condensed milk, a real sugar and caffeine hit, and beer hoi (local beer, brewed daily) is served on most street corners in the north out of large plastic jugs that are perfect for sharing.
Food is cheap in Vietnam and you can generally avoid the spicier dishes if you wish. Western food is readily available almost everywhere, except for the Mekong Delta area.
Food is cheap in Cambodia and you can generally avoid the spicier food if you wish. Cambodian food is all about contrasts—sweet and bitter, salty and sour, fresh and cooked. It shares many dishes with its neighbours, and you’ll find noodle soup similar to Vietnamese pho, the refreshing salads and sour soups of Thailand, Indian-inspired curries, and noodles and stir fries handed down from years of Chinese migration. From days as a French Indochina colony, Vietnam has a love of coffee, pâté and good bread. Baguettes are served with soup, made into sandwiches, and sold by cyclists carrying baskets filled with long loaves. Western food is also available in most places visited.
Vegetarian food is widely available; however, the offering will be fairly similar in most places. Please advise at time of booking if you have any dietary requirements.
Transportation
We use private air-conditioned car, minibus or bus dependent on group size. Boats are used at various points in the itinerary. There are three flights included in the itinerary and all bookings on flights are economy class.
Tet Holiday Period (Vietnamese New Year)
During the Tet holiday period, 21-26 January 2023 and 9-15 February 2024 and two weeks either side of Tet, our itinerary is subject to minor change as, despite booking hotels and trains in advance, rooms and seats are difficult to obtain during this busy festive period when people are travelling home to celebrate with their families. It is unlikely that changes will occur, but if required, suitable alternative premium accommodation will be used.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Recommended arrival time: You should aim to arrive by late afternoon to catch the welcome dinner
Airport: Hanoi Airport (HAN)
Getting to the start hotel
Exodus provides free arrival transfers to the start hotel from the airport for all customers.
Catching your return flight
Exodus provides free departure transfers for all customers to Siem Reap Airport (SAI) from the end hotel.
Please note, unless specified otherwise, the transfers will be to the start (or pre-tour) hotel and from the end (or post-tour) hotel and will be on the date on which the tour starts/ends; transfers to other hotels in the same city and/or on different dates may attract an extra charge. Transfers should be booked with your sales representative at least two weeks before the tour starts.
Weather Information
The weather will be hot and humid throughout with daytime temperatures usually between 28C and 34C (82F and 93F). It is only a little cooler at night.
There is quite a range of seasons between the north and the south: the south up to Hue has a distinct dry season between December to April and then a rainy season from May to November when it tends to come in short heavy bursts with bright sunshine in between. Hanoi is cool in autumn, and even gets chilly between November and February (with drizzly rain).
There is no ideal time to visit Vietnam; it is quite pleasant at any time of year, though due to the shape of the country it is unlikely the weather will ever be perfect for the entire duration of any trip.
Please be aware, the Ha Long Bay boat trip can be subject to change at short notice if certain adverse weather conditions develop. These could occur year-round, but especially in monsoon season (October to April). Ha Long Bay boat trips are governed by local authorities, who are authorised to make such appropriate safety decisions. If your Ha Long Bay trip is affected by adverse weather, this could either result in a reduced excursion on Ha Long Bay for your group, or less likely, the need to re-arrange the itinerary if it is not possible at all to go out on Ha Long Bay. While this is not a frequent occurrence, our local team and leaders are well equipped to handle such situations and have long offered appropriate options to groups in the instances where this may occur.
In Cambodia, the weather will be hot and humid year-round. The dry season is late October to May and the monsoon is normally between May and October; though there is an obvious transitional time between those settled periods. The dry season is as it sounds, with hot days and generally clear skies, though you can expect the odd shower. The monsoon is characterised by short bursts of rain and is generally overcast all day though this does not detract from the enjoyment of the place; just take an umbrella or buy a cheap poncho locally.
Spending Money
You will need about US$300â€US$375 for all other meals, which will allow you to eat well. Apart from the food, you should allow money to cover drinks (more if you like a beer/alcohol) and souvenirs.
Optional Excursions
There are several optional activities, which your leader can help arrange for you and advise of costs locally.
Hanoi
â€Water puppets: US$6
Hoi An
â€Tu Bon River boat trip: US$7 depending upon numbers
Tipping
On this Premium Adventure, tipping for any local support staff is included, and will be taken care of by your tour leader (or in some cases through our local agent). So need no for tipping kitties or to make your own tips during the trip.
Our ‘included tips’ will normally cover drivers, local specialist guides, certain hotel staff, and serving staff for included meals. Amounts will be in line with the local standard. Of course, if you wish to make a further tip for some extra special service you may do so.
Tips for the Tour Leader are not included. Whether to tip at all and the amount is entirely at your own discretion, but as a starting point we suggest around 61,000-125,000 dong (US$3- US$6) per person per day for the duration of the trip.
highlights
- Two nights at the intimate Lynnaya Urban River Resort & SpaÂ
- “ the perfect base to explore Angkor
- Spend one night aboard a Le Journey Cruise in Ha Long Bay; enjoy sunset drinks on deck
- Explore the historic trading town of Hoi An;Â test your culinary skills at a Vietnamese cooking class
- Traverse the meandering waterways of the Mekong Delta by boat
- Encounter the spellbinding Angkor Wat
Highlights
- Two nights at the intimate Lynnaya Urban River Resort & SpaÂ
- “ the perfect base to explore Angkor
- Spend one night aboard a Le Journey Cruise in Ha Long Bay; enjoy sunset drinks on deck
- Explore the historic trading town of Hoi An;Â test your culinary skills at a Vietnamese cooking class
- Traverse the meandering waterways of the Mekong Delta by boat
- Encounter the spellbinding Angkor Wat
Immerse yourself in incredible experiences on this expertly led cultural adventure from Hanoi in northern Vietnam to Siem Reap in Cambodia. You’ll explore limestone cliffs and enjoy sundowners on deck as you cruise Ha Long Bay; discover culture and history in Hoi An; witness street life in vibrant Ho Chi Minh City; and slow down on the serene waterways of the Mekong Delta. Finally, you’ll journey to Siem Reap, staying at the intimate Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa – the perfect base to visit one of the great surviving archaeological wonders, the mesmerising temple complex of Angkor.
Profileâ€13 nights in premium accommodation including one night aboard a traditionally handcrafted boat on Ha Long Bay â€Travel by private air-conditioned minibus, three flights and boat â€Group normally 4 to 16 plus leader
At a Glanceâ€13 nights in premium accommodation including one night aboard a traditionally handcrafted boat on Ha Long Bay â€Travel by private air-conditioned minibus, three flights and boat â€Group normally 4 to 16 plus leader
Trip For YouThis Premium Adventure is rated Activity Level 1 (Leisurely). For more on our trip gradings, visit our Activity Level Guidelines page.
This is not a rushed trip and although there are early starts, the focus is on spending time in each area in comfort, with few long road journeys. Both Vietnam and Cambodia are humid, which can be tiring as we explore some areas on foot. We have included three flights to keep travelling time to a minimum but please be aware that delays can occur.
Group DescriptionThe trip is led by locally qualified Vietnamese and Cambodian English-speaking leaders, chosen for their experience and great customer feedback.
Eating DrinkingAll breakfasts, seven lunches and seven dinners are included.
Thanks to the tropical climate, long coast and gigantic range of mountains, Vietnam is blessed with a variety of culinary offerings, and maintains a reputation as one of the healthiest, most delicious cuisines in the world.
Vietnamese food relies on fresh fish, vegetables, rice and a myriad of verdant herbs and spices; lemongrass, ginger, basil and lime all play an important role in the cuisine. The Chinese and French influence is felt throughout the country where you are just as likely to be offered a banh mi (stuffed baguette) as you are a steaming bowl of pho (noodle soup).
Each dish is prepared with the Asian principle of Wu Xing (the five elements) in mind; meaning the perfect combination of spicy, sour, bitter, salty and sweet is the aim. Be sure to also seek out the national beverages: Vietnamese coffee is served iced and sweet with condensed milk, a real sugar and caffeine hit, and beer hoi (local beer, brewed daily) is served on most street corners in the north out of large plastic jugs that are perfect for sharing.
Food is cheap in Vietnam and you can generally avoid the spicier dishes if you wish. Western food is readily available almost everywhere, except for the Mekong Delta area.
Food is cheap in Cambodia and you can generally avoid the spicier food if you wish. Cambodian food is all about contrasts—sweet and bitter, salty and sour, fresh and cooked. It shares many dishes with its neighbours, and you’ll find noodle soup similar to Vietnamese pho, the refreshing salads and sour soups of Thailand, Indian-inspired curries, and noodles and stir fries handed down from years of Chinese migration. From days as a French Indochina colony, Vietnam has a love of coffee, pâté and good bread. Baguettes are served with soup, made into sandwiches, and sold by cyclists carrying baskets filled with long loaves. Western food is also available in most places visited.
Vegetarian food is widely available; however, the offering will be fairly similar in most places. Please advise at time of booking if you have any dietary requirements.
TransportationWe use private air-conditioned car, minibus or bus dependent on group size. Boats are used at various points in the itinerary. There are three flights included in the itinerary and all bookings on flights are economy class.
Tet Holiday Period (Vietnamese New Year)
During the Tet holiday period, 21-26 January 2023 and 9-15 February 2024 and two weeks either side of Tet, our itinerary is subject to minor change as, despite booking hotels and trains in advance, rooms and seats are difficult to obtain during this busy festive period when people are travelling home to celebrate with their families. It is unlikely that changes will occur, but if required, suitable alternative premium accommodation will be used.
Joining InstructionsKey information
Recommended arrival time: You should aim to arrive by late afternoon to catch the welcome dinner
Airport: Hanoi Airport (HAN)
Getting to the start hotel
Exodus provides free arrival transfers to the start hotel from the airport for all customers.
Catching your return flight
Exodus provides free departure transfers for all customers to Siem Reap Airport (SAI) from the end hotel.
Please note, unless specified otherwise, the transfers will be to the start (or pre-tour) hotel and from the end (or post-tour) hotel and will be on the date on which the tour starts/ends; transfers to other hotels in the same city and/or on different dates may attract an extra charge. Transfers should be booked with your sales representative at least two weeks before the tour starts.
Weather InformationThe weather will be hot and humid throughout with daytime temperatures usually between 28C and 34C (82F and 93F). It is only a little cooler at night.
There is quite a range of seasons between the north and the south: the south up to Hue has a distinct dry season between December to April and then a rainy season from May to November when it tends to come in short heavy bursts with bright sunshine in between. Hanoi is cool in autumn, and even gets chilly between November and February (with drizzly rain).
There is no ideal time to visit Vietnam; it is quite pleasant at any time of year, though due to the shape of the country it is unlikely the weather will ever be perfect for the entire duration of any trip.
Please be aware, the Ha Long Bay boat trip can be subject to change at short notice if certain adverse weather conditions develop. These could occur year-round, but especially in monsoon season (October to April). Ha Long Bay boat trips are governed by local authorities, who are authorised to make such appropriate safety decisions. If your Ha Long Bay trip is affected by adverse weather, this could either result in a reduced excursion on Ha Long Bay for your group, or less likely, the need to re-arrange the itinerary if it is not possible at all to go out on Ha Long Bay. While this is not a frequent occurrence, our local team and leaders are well equipped to handle such situations and have long offered appropriate options to groups in the instances where this may occur.
In Cambodia, the weather will be hot and humid year-round. The dry season is late October to May and the monsoon is normally between May and October; though there is an obvious transitional time between those settled periods. The dry season is as it sounds, with hot days and generally clear skies, though you can expect the odd shower. The monsoon is characterised by short bursts of rain and is generally overcast all day though this does not detract from the enjoyment of the place; just take an umbrella or buy a cheap poncho locally.
Spending MoneyYou will need about US$300â€US$375 for all other meals, which will allow you to eat well. Apart from the food, you should allow money to cover drinks (more if you like a beer/alcohol) and souvenirs.
Optional Excursions
There are several optional activities, which your leader can help arrange for you and advise of costs locally.
Hanoi
â€Water puppets: US$6
Hoi An
â€Tu Bon River boat trip: US$7 depending upon numbers
TippingOn this Premium Adventure, tipping for any local support staff is included, and will be taken care of by your tour leader (or in some cases through our local agent). So need no for tipping kitties or to make your own tips during the trip.
Our ‘included tips’ will normally cover drivers, local specialist guides, certain hotel staff, and serving staff for included meals. Amounts will be in line with the local standard. Of course, if you wish to make a further tip for some extra special service you may do so.
Tips for the Tour Leader are not included. Whether to tip at all and the amount is entirely at your own discretion, but as a starting point we suggest around 61,000-125,000 dong (US$3- US$6) per person per day for the duration of the trip.
ITINERARY
1Day 1: Start Hanoi; welcome dinner in the evening
The capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, is ready to welcome you when you arrive. Get acclimatised and familiarise yourself with the city by wandering the tree-lined avenues.
There will be a group welcome meeting this evening with your expert leader followed by an included welcome dinner at KOTO (Know One, Teach One), a well-established training restaurant for disadvantaged youths where you'll be served a blend of Vietnamese and Southeast Asian foods.
Premium accommodation: Foreign Relations Hotel, Hanoi (four-star)
2Day 2: City tour of Hanoi; free afternoon
This morning, enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city that includes a visit to the Temple of Literature, the site of the oldest university in Vietnam; Hoa Lo Prison; and the Old Quarter. For lunch, we'll visit the much-loved restaurant, Bun Cha Huong Lien, to try their bun cha (a local speciality of noodles, broth and meat served with greens).
The afternoon is then free for you to wander around the Hoan Kiem Lake and perhaps enjoy the view from a lakeside cafe.
Premium accommodation: Foreign Relations Hotel, Hanoi (four-star)
3Day 3: To Ha Long Bay; cruise followed by sundowners on deck; overnight on board a Le Journey Cruise
We make an early start for the approximate four-hour journey to Ha Long Bay, one of the most stunning sights in Southeast Asia with some 3,000 limestone peaks rising directly from the emerald sea. We cruise among this striking karst scenery, stopping to swim and kayak, allowing us to get to places inaccessible by boat (weather permitting), and enjoy a seafood lunch on board. Later in the afternoon, join your expert leader and group for a drink or two on the top deck while watching the sunset before spending the night in twin-share cabins.
Premium accommodation: Le Journey Cruises (join-in basis), Ha Long Bay
4Day 4: Continue cruise; visit Ha Long Women's Association, return to Hanoi
We continue to cruise around Ha Long Bay this morning before returning to port.
Your leader will then introduce your group to the Ha Long Women's Association in the Hon Gai township, a local sustainable initiative committed to cleaning waste in Ha Long Bay and upcycling it, where possible, into items of value. Here you'll meet the local women and witness how they upcycle trash into beautiful, handcrafted products. You may also get the chance to try upcycling too.
We then drive back to Hanoi for a free evening to explore or relax. There may be an option of seeing a Water Puppets performance, which your leader can arrange if you wish (subject to availability).
Premium accommodation: Foreign Relations Hotel, Hanoi (four-star)
5Day 5: Fly to Da Nang; transfer to Hoi An
After breakfast, we transfer to Hanoi Airport for a flight to Da Nang. In Da Nang, we climb Marble Mountain where we explore the large caves used by the Viet Cong as a hospital base during the war. There are wonderful views from the mountain peak over My Khe Beach and the surrounding countryside which leads on to the captivating town of Hoi An, our next destination (approximately one-hour transfer).
This evening, the group will dine at a local restaurant while enjoying views of the atmospheric Thu Bon River.
Premium accommodation:Â Hoi An Blue Sky Boutique Hotel & Spa, Hoi An (four-star)
6Day 6: Walking tour of Hoi An; free afternoon
This morning will include a walking tour of Hoi An, the original European trading port in Vietnam dating back to the mid-16th century. It is now a living museum, with attractive wooden merchant houses and pagoda-style temples with Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese and European architectural influences. It is also a marvellous place to wander around, dipping into the thriving riverside market and shopping for silk clothing.
After lunch at a local eatery, the afternoon is free to enjoy a town that has become a favourite for so many travellers to Vietnam. Options include a trip to My Son (the spiritual home of the Cham civilisation) where Cham kings were buried as long ago as the fourth century. Although bombing has destroyed much of the site, there are several interesting stone towers and sanctuaries.
Premium accommodation:Â Hoi An Blue Sky Boutique Hotel & Spa, Hoi An (four-star)
7Day 7: Morning visit to the local market and cooking class; free afternoon
We spend the morning visiting the colourful local market where we will shop for ingredients before visiting the renowned Green Mango Cooking School. Here we learn the intricacies of Vietnamese cooking. Under the supervision of an English-speaking Vietnamese chef, you create your own dishes. You don't need to be a proficient cook to enjoy this activity – but be warned, you eat your creations at the end of the morning!
The afternoon is free for you to enjoy Hoi An at leisure, or jump on a bike (optional) for a ride through the countryside, passing markets, schools and villages before continuing to Cua Dai beach (3mi/5km).
Premium accommodation:Â Hoi An Blue Sky Boutique Hotel & Spa, Hoi An (four-star)
8Day 8: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City; afternoon city tour
This morning we transfer to Da Nang Airport for the flight (approximately 1hr 25min) to Ho Chi Minh City (formally Saigon). This is an exciting, absorbing city where scooters pack the streets and temples stand alongside modern developments. Devastated by the Vietnam War, it is now a bustling free-market city where anything goes. The Saigon River and Ben Thanh market are within walking distance and are highly recommended.
After arrival, your group will dine at a Ho Chi Minh City institution, Pho Hoa on Pasteur, which has been in operation for more than 50 years. Here you will enjoy a tasty lunch of southern-style Vietnamese noodles and spring rolls.
An afternoon city tour will include a visit to the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum. The museum has an interesting photographic record of the Vietnam/American War. Please be aware, some images at the museum are very graphic.
Premium accommodation: Sila Urban Living, Ho Chi Minh City (four-star)
9Day 9: Morning visit to Cu Chi tunnels; free afternoon
Today we leave the city and head north to visit the Cu Chi tunnels. Used by the Viet Cong during the war, the network covers three levels and incorporates around 150mi (240km) of tunnels. Traditionally, these were very narrow, but some areas have been widened to allow tourists to explore the system. Claustrophobes may prefer to stay outside in the sunshine.
In the afternoon, we return to Ho Chi Minh City and the rest of the day is free for individual exploration.
Premium accommodation: Sila Urban Living, Ho Chi Minh City (four-star)
10Day 10: To Mekong Delta; cruise through waterways
In the morning, we drive to Cai Be in the Mekong Delta (approximately 2hr 30min), known as the rice bowl of Vietnam. This region produces most of Vietnam's fruit, sugar cane and coconuts. We take a boat trip on the mighty Mekong River, passing many orchards and friendly locals also travelling by boat. Recently, Cai Be floating market has become less crowded and smaller as fruit trading is mostly now done by trucks. However, this is still a great opportunity to see a local market and traditional trade on a smaller scale. We stop to see small cottage industries, such as rice paper and coconut candy, getting a chance to sample the produce before enjoying the local specialty, elephant ear fish, for lunch.
After, we continue by boat to Vinh Long where our private transport takes us to Can Tho. This evening, the group will dine and enjoy local Mekong specialties.
Premium accommodation: Ninh Kieu Riverside Hotel, Can Tho (four-star)
11Day 11: Visit floating market; return to Ho Chi Minh City
This morning, we take a boat trip to Cai Rang floating market, the biggest and most lively floating market in the Delta, with great photo opportunities. It is a maze of hundreds of boats packed with fruits, vegetables and plants, where samples are hung from the tops of long poles so buyers can see from a distance what is for sale.
After, we drive back to Ho Chi Minh City where the remainder of the afternoon is free. This evening, you'll meet your leader and group for a final traditional meal in a Vietnamese-style house-restaurant in the heart of the city.
Premium accommodation: Sila Urban Living, Ho Chi Minh City (four-star)
12Day 12: Fly to Siem Reap, Cambodia, and be based at the Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa
Today we transfer to Ho Chi Minh City Airport for the flight to Siem Reap in Cambodia.
On arrival, the group will be met by our Cambodian expert tour leader. Here the group will spend the next two nights at the intimate Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa – the perfect base to explore Angkor.
This evening, we enjoy a welcome dinner in the local village of Lum Orng at the first farm-to-table restaurant in Cambodia where we feast on authentic Khmer cuisine made with many ingredients from the organic garden.
We may also have the opportunity to see the sunset at the temple-complex this evening (flight time dependent). If not, we enjoy this marvel tomorrow.
Premium accommodation: Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa, Siem Reap (four-star)
13Day 13: Full day to explore Angkor
We visit the incredible Angkor Wat and the many temples inside the Royal City of Angkor Thom, including the magnificent Bayon, which comprises 54 intricately carved towers in a single temple. The Bayon certainly left an impression on an early traveller in 1925 who stated, 'we stand before it stunned. It is like nothing else in the land.' We will also see other less-visited outlying temples. Particularly impressive are Banteay Srei and Ta Prohm, the latter still covered in jungle as it was first found. Re-discovered in the 1870s and described as being 'grander than anything of Greece or Rome' by the French explorer Henri Mouchot, this Unesco World Heritage site is one of the most spectacular archaeological zones in the world. A truly magical experience and a photographer's paradise.
This evening, gather with your leader and group members for a special farewell dinner featuring traditional cuisine and entertainment.
Premium accommodation: Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa, Siem Reap (four-star)
14Day 14: End Siem Reap
This cultural tour ends after breakfast. There are free transfers to Siem Reap Airport for all customers (see the Joining Instructions for more information). Alternatively, if you’d like more time to explore this fascinating destination, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.
Day 1: Start Hanoi; welcome dinner in the evening
The capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, is ready to welcome you when you arrive. Get acclimatised and familiarise yourself with the city by wandering the tree-lined avenues.
There will be a group welcome meeting this evening with your expert leader followed by an included welcome dinner at KOTO (Know One, Teach One), a well-established training restaurant for disadvantaged youths where you'll be served a blend of Vietnamese and Southeast Asian foods.
Premium accommodation: Foreign Relations Hotel, Hanoi (four-star)
Day 2: City tour of Hanoi; free afternoon
This morning, enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city that includes a visit to the Temple of Literature, the site of the oldest university in Vietnam; Hoa Lo Prison; and the Old Quarter. For lunch, we'll visit the much-loved restaurant, Bun Cha Huong Lien, to try their bun cha (a local speciality of noodles, broth and meat served with greens).
The afternoon is then free for you to wander around the Hoan Kiem Lake and perhaps enjoy the view from a lakeside cafe.
Premium accommodation: Foreign Relations Hotel, Hanoi (four-star)
Day 3: To Ha Long Bay; cruise followed by sundowners on deck; overnight on board a Le Journey Cruise
We make an early start for the approximate four-hour journey to Ha Long Bay, one of the most stunning sights in Southeast Asia with some 3,000 limestone peaks rising directly from the emerald sea. We cruise among this striking karst scenery, stopping to swim and kayak, allowing us to get to places inaccessible by boat (weather permitting), and enjoy a seafood lunch on board. Later in the afternoon, join your expert leader and group for a drink or two on the top deck while watching the sunset before spending the night in twin-share cabins.
Premium accommodation: Le Journey Cruises (join-in basis), Ha Long Bay
Day 4: Continue cruise; visit Ha Long Women's Association, return to Hanoi
We continue to cruise around Ha Long Bay this morning before returning to port.
Your leader will then introduce your group to the Ha Long Women's Association in the Hon Gai township, a local sustainable initiative committed to cleaning waste in Ha Long Bay and upcycling it, where possible, into items of value. Here you'll meet the local women and witness how they upcycle trash into beautiful, handcrafted products. You may also get the chance to try upcycling too.
We then drive back to Hanoi for a free evening to explore or relax. There may be an option of seeing a Water Puppets performance, which your leader can arrange if you wish (subject to availability).
Premium accommodation: Foreign Relations Hotel, Hanoi (four-star)
Day 5: Fly to Da Nang; transfer to Hoi An
After breakfast, we transfer to Hanoi Airport for a flight to Da Nang. In Da Nang, we climb Marble Mountain where we explore the large caves used by the Viet Cong as a hospital base during the war. There are wonderful views from the mountain peak over My Khe Beach and the surrounding countryside which leads on to the captivating town of Hoi An, our next destination (approximately one-hour transfer).
This evening, the group will dine at a local restaurant while enjoying views of the atmospheric Thu Bon River.
Premium accommodation:Â Hoi An Blue Sky Boutique Hotel & Spa, Hoi An (four-star)
Day 6: Walking tour of Hoi An; free afternoon
This morning will include a walking tour of Hoi An, the original European trading port in Vietnam dating back to the mid-16th century. It is now a living museum, with attractive wooden merchant houses and pagoda-style temples with Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese and European architectural influences. It is also a marvellous place to wander around, dipping into the thriving riverside market and shopping for silk clothing.
After lunch at a local eatery, the afternoon is free to enjoy a town that has become a favourite for so many travellers to Vietnam. Options include a trip to My Son (the spiritual home of the Cham civilisation) where Cham kings were buried as long ago as the fourth century. Although bombing has destroyed much of the site, there are several interesting stone towers and sanctuaries.
Premium accommodation:Â Hoi An Blue Sky Boutique Hotel & Spa, Hoi An (four-star)
Day 7: Morning visit to the local market and cooking class; free afternoon
We spend the morning visiting the colourful local market where we will shop for ingredients before visiting the renowned Green Mango Cooking School. Here we learn the intricacies of Vietnamese cooking. Under the supervision of an English-speaking Vietnamese chef, you create your own dishes. You don't need to be a proficient cook to enjoy this activity – but be warned, you eat your creations at the end of the morning!
The afternoon is free for you to enjoy Hoi An at leisure, or jump on a bike (optional) for a ride through the countryside, passing markets, schools and villages before continuing to Cua Dai beach (3mi/5km).
Premium accommodation:Â Hoi An Blue Sky Boutique Hotel & Spa, Hoi An (four-star)
Day 8: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City; afternoon city tour
This morning we transfer to Da Nang Airport for the flight (approximately 1hr 25min) to Ho Chi Minh City (formally Saigon). This is an exciting, absorbing city where scooters pack the streets and temples stand alongside modern developments. Devastated by the Vietnam War, it is now a bustling free-market city where anything goes. The Saigon River and Ben Thanh market are within walking distance and are highly recommended.
After arrival, your group will dine at a Ho Chi Minh City institution, Pho Hoa on Pasteur, which has been in operation for more than 50 years. Here you will enjoy a tasty lunch of southern-style Vietnamese noodles and spring rolls.
An afternoon city tour will include a visit to the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum. The museum has an interesting photographic record of the Vietnam/American War. Please be aware, some images at the museum are very graphic.
Premium accommodation: Sila Urban Living, Ho Chi Minh City (four-star)
Day 9: Morning visit to Cu Chi tunnels; free afternoon
Today we leave the city and head north to visit the Cu Chi tunnels. Used by the Viet Cong during the war, the network covers three levels and incorporates around 150mi (240km) of tunnels. Traditionally, these were very narrow, but some areas have been widened to allow tourists to explore the system. Claustrophobes may prefer to stay outside in the sunshine.
In the afternoon, we return to Ho Chi Minh City and the rest of the day is free for individual exploration.
Premium accommodation: Sila Urban Living, Ho Chi Minh City (four-star)
Day 10: To Mekong Delta; cruise through waterways
In the morning, we drive to Cai Be in the Mekong Delta (approximately 2hr 30min), known as the rice bowl of Vietnam. This region produces most of Vietnam's fruit, sugar cane and coconuts. We take a boat trip on the mighty Mekong River, passing many orchards and friendly locals also travelling by boat. Recently, Cai Be floating market has become less crowded and smaller as fruit trading is mostly now done by trucks. However, this is still a great opportunity to see a local market and traditional trade on a smaller scale. We stop to see small cottage industries, such as rice paper and coconut candy, getting a chance to sample the produce before enjoying the local specialty, elephant ear fish, for lunch.
After, we continue by boat to Vinh Long where our private transport takes us to Can Tho. This evening, the group will dine and enjoy local Mekong specialties.
Premium accommodation: Ninh Kieu Riverside Hotel, Can Tho (four-star)
Day 11: Visit floating market; return to Ho Chi Minh City
This morning, we take a boat trip to Cai Rang floating market, the biggest and most lively floating market in the Delta, with great photo opportunities. It is a maze of hundreds of boats packed with fruits, vegetables and plants, where samples are hung from the tops of long poles so buyers can see from a distance what is for sale.
After, we drive back to Ho Chi Minh City where the remainder of the afternoon is free. This evening, you'll meet your leader and group for a final traditional meal in a Vietnamese-style house-restaurant in the heart of the city.
Premium accommodation: Sila Urban Living, Ho Chi Minh City (four-star)
Day 12: Fly to Siem Reap, Cambodia, and be based at the Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa
Today we transfer to Ho Chi Minh City Airport for the flight to Siem Reap in Cambodia.
On arrival, the group will be met by our Cambodian expert tour leader. Here the group will spend the next two nights at the intimate Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa – the perfect base to explore Angkor.
This evening, we enjoy a welcome dinner in the local village of Lum Orng at the first farm-to-table restaurant in Cambodia where we feast on authentic Khmer cuisine made with many ingredients from the organic garden.
We may also have the opportunity to see the sunset at the temple-complex this evening (flight time dependent). If not, we enjoy this marvel tomorrow.
Premium accommodation: Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa, Siem Reap (four-star)
Day 13: Full day to explore Angkor
We visit the incredible Angkor Wat and the many temples inside the Royal City of Angkor Thom, including the magnificent Bayon, which comprises 54 intricately carved towers in a single temple. The Bayon certainly left an impression on an early traveller in 1925 who stated, 'we stand before it stunned. It is like nothing else in the land.' We will also see other less-visited outlying temples. Particularly impressive are Banteay Srei and Ta Prohm, the latter still covered in jungle as it was first found. Re-discovered in the 1870s and described as being 'grander than anything of Greece or Rome' by the French explorer Henri Mouchot, this Unesco World Heritage site is one of the most spectacular archaeological zones in the world. A truly magical experience and a photographer's paradise.
This evening, gather with your leader and group members for a special farewell dinner featuring traditional cuisine and entertainment.
Premium accommodation: Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa, Siem Reap (four-star)
Day 14: End Siem Reap
This cultural tour ends after breakfast. There are free transfers to Siem Reap Airport for all customers (see the Joining Instructions for more information). Alternatively, if you’d like more time to explore this fascinating destination, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.
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Exodus Travel
In Business Since 1974
It’s all about adventure
That is what Exodus was founded upon 50 years ago, and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on.
At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved.
This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday.
Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments. See our history page for more details about how we began and how we have grown over the past 50 years.
Never travelled with Exodus before? Visit our New to Exodus page for some useful, first-timer information.
Trip Type: Small Group
Comfort: Moderate
Starts: Hanoi, Angkor Wat
Duration: 14 days
The capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, is ready to welcome you when you arrive. Get acclimatised and familiarise yourself with the city by wandering the tree-lined avenues.
There will be a group welcome meeting this evening with your expert leader followed by an included welcome dinner at KOTO (Know One, Teach One), a well-established training restaurant for disadvantaged youths where you'll be served a blend of Vietnamese and Southeast Asian foods.
Premium accommodation: Foreign Relations Hotel, Hanoi (four-star) 
This morning, enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city that includes a visit to the Temple of Literature, the site of the oldest university in Vietnam; Hoa Lo Prison; and the Old Quarter. For lunch, we'll visit the much-loved restaurant, Bun Cha Huong Lien, to try their bun cha (a local speciality of noodles, broth and meat served with greens).
The afternoon is then free for you to wander around the Hoan Kiem Lake and perhaps enjoy the view from a lakeside cafe.
Premium accommodation: Foreign Relations Hotel, Hanoi (four-star) 
We make an early start for the approximate four-hour journey to Ha Long Bay, one of the most stunning sights in Southeast Asia with some 3,000 limestone peaks rising directly from the emerald sea. We cruise among this striking karst scenery, stopping to swim and kayak, allowing us to get to places inaccessible by boat (weather permitting), and enjoy a seafood lunch on board. Later in the afternoon, join your expert leader and group for a drink or two on the top deck while watching the sunset before spending the night in twin-share cabins.
Premium accommodation: Le Journey Cruises (join-in basis), Ha Long Bay 
We continue to cruise around Ha Long Bay this morning before returning to port.
Your leader will then introduce your group to the Ha Long Women's Association in the Hon Gai township, a local sustainable initiative committed to cleaning waste in Ha Long Bay and upcycling it, where possible, into items of value. Here you'll meet the local women and witness how they upcycle trash into beautiful, handcrafted products. You may also get the chance to try upcycling too.
We then drive back to Hanoi for a free evening to explore or relax. There may be an option of seeing a Water Puppets performance, which your leader can arrange if you wish (subject to availability).
Premium accommodation: Foreign Relations Hotel, Hanoi (four-star) 
After breakfast, we transfer to Hanoi Airport for a flight to Da Nang. In Da Nang, we climb Marble Mountain where we explore the large caves used by the Viet Cong as a hospital base during the war. There are wonderful views from the mountain peak over My Khe Beach and the surrounding countryside which leads on to the captivating town of Hoi An, our next destination (approximately one-hour transfer).
This evening, the group will dine at a local restaurant while enjoying views of the atmospheric Thu Bon River.
Premium accommodation:Â Hoi An Blue Sky Boutique Hotel & Spa, Hoi An (four-star) 
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