VIETNAM & CAMBODIA

DAY 01: HOCHIMINH CITY
With the area of 2,095 km2 , Hochiminh is the largest city of Vietnam. Hundreds of rivers running across the city, connecting with Mekong Delta and also with Cambodia, make this city become the traffic knot of the South, and one of the most important economic zones of the country. Despite its quite recent past,

Hochiminh city possesses numerous interesting buildings, a combination of Vietnamese, Chinese and European culture and quite attractive with the hustle and bustle of life visible everywhere. There are street markets, sidewalk cafes and sleek new bars.

• In the morning, you will make an orientation tour on foot:

- Around the Paris Commune Square area, the center of the city, located the Cathedral Church, designed in France and built by Mr. Bourard – a French engineer; the post office in an old colonial style building with a part of its iron structure was designed by Gustave Eiffel’s student;  

- Outside the Reunification Palace, former Independence Palace, where were stormed by the tanks on 30th Apr. 1975, signifying the fall of the South Regime (just outside).

Then you’ll visit

- The History museum.

- The War Remnants museum, where the collections of weapons and photographs from two Indochina wars are exhibited.

- Have lunch at the local restant .

After lunch, you’ll visit:

- Cholon - the Chinese quarter, with Binhtay market, strolling on the always-crowded streets.

- Thienhau pagoda, built by the Chinese to worship Lady Hau, according the Chinese, is the sea goddess who protects the seaman from harm.

- Have free time to explore, by your own, the downtown or for shopping at Dongkhoi Street (formal Catinat str.), Benthanh market and at the center of the city.

- Return to the hotel.

DAY 02: HOCHIMINH / CUCHI TUNNEL / HOCHIMNH 
Cuchi is a well-known revolutionary historical site, 75km at the northwest of Hochiminh city. This is the unique architectural structure with the system of hundreds kilometre tunnel lying deeply in the earth, with different stages and branches, which connected together to create the tangled net of the tunnels. These tunnels have been dug by Cuchi guerrillas during the American war, right under the feet of the American, and became hidden home of the guerrillas. Here has been called the homeland of “The Tunnel War”, which contributes the important role in the final victory of Vietnam over America.

• You’ll departure to Cuchi.

- On the way, you’ll stopover for photography and visit some villages where

people manufacture the crispy rice cake.

- You'll arrive to Cuchi after 1 ½ hour driving; visit the tunnel.

- Return to Hochiminh city at midday, transfer to the hotel.

- Have lunch at the local restant .

- Transfer to the hotel.

DAY 03: HOCHIMINH  - FLIGHT TO ĐÀ NẴNG – HOIAN
The old town Hoi An presents architecture from the 15th to the 19th century. Officially founded by a lord of the Nguyen family in 1595, it is an example of a well-preserved port city of Southeast Asia of that time. Under the Nguyen Dynasty, Hoi An became the most important trading port of the East Sea, especially for high-quality ceramics and silk. Known as “Hai Pho” or “Beach Resort”, it was a vital link between Europe and China, India and Japan, with ships coming from Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Spain, Portugal, Holland, Great Britain, and America. Hoi An’s commercial prowess could not be sustainable.
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for the flight to Đà Nẵng. 
Upon arrival, you will be picked up and transferred to Hoian. Check-in hotel. 
Have lunch at local restaurant or hotel.
 
In the afternoon, explore Hoi An ancient town, when visiting the Japanese Pagoda Bridge, Chinese streets, old Phung Hung houses, Hoi An’s market and ancient port. On the 1st and 15th of every lunar month, Hoi An’s ancient town is lit up by hundreds of colorful lanterns, giving it an extra portion of sparkle. Overnight at hotel.

DAY 04:  HOI AN -  HUE
Huế, a city located in central Vietnam, is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and imperial architecture. You will visit:
 1. Imperial City (The Citadel): The Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, served as the political and cultural center of the Nguyen Dynasty. Enclosed by massive walls and a moat, the complex includes the Purple Forbidden City, temples, pavilions, and the Halls of the Mandarins. Must-visit attractions within the Imperial City include the Ngo Mon Gate, Thai Hoa Palace, and the Forbidden Purple City.
 2. Thien Mu Pagoda: Perched on a hill overlooking the Perfume River, Thien Mu Pagoda is one of the oldest and most iconic pagodas in Vietnam. The seven-story tower, known as the Thap Phuoc Duyen, is a symbol of Huế. 
4. Tomb of Khai Dinh: This ornate tomb is a blend of Western and Eastern architectural styles, reflecting the eclectic tastes of Emperor Khai Dinh. The tomb is adorned with intricate mosaics, sculptures, and detailed decorations.

DAY 05:   HUE - HA NOI
Arrival in Noi Bai airport with flight, you will be picked up and then transferred to the hotel in the city center. 

Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam, a city with a long history and rich culture. It is also a popular destination for travelers who want to explore the beauty and diversity of Vietnam. Here , you will visit  some of the most famous places in Hanoi:

• Hoan Kiem Lake This is the heart of Hanoi, where you can enjoy the scenic view of the lake, the Turtle Tower, and the Ngoc Son Temple. It is also a place for cultural and recreational activities, such as water puppet shows, street performances, and night markets.

• The Old quarter: This is the oldest area of Hanoi, where you can experience the traditional lifestyle and architecture of the city. It is also a place for shopping, dining, and nightlife, with many shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes. You can also take a cyclo ride or a walking tour to discover the hidden gems of the Old Quarter.

• Temple of Literature: This is the first university of Vietnam, founded in 1070. It is a complex of ancient buildings, gardens, and statues, dedicated to Confucius and the scholars of Vietnam. It is also a symbol of the country’s education and culture.

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: This is the final resting place of Ho Chi Minh, the leader of the Vietnamese revolution and the founder of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. It is a solemn and sacred site, where you can pay respect to the national hero and learn more about his life and legacy.

• Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: This is a museum that showcases the diversity and richness of the ethnic groups of Vietnam. It has a large collection of artifacts, costumes, tools, and houses, representing the culture and history of 54 ethnic groups. It also has an outdoor area, where you can see the traditional architecture and activities of the ethnic minorities.

DAY 06: HA NOI - HA LONG- HA NOI - Siem Reap
Visiting Ha Long Bay is an unforgettable journey of discovery for tourists from both inside and outside the country, with its majestic and poetic natural beauty, with thousands of islands of various shapes scattered around, along with many unique caves, creating a magnificent and distinctive scenery from the rest of the world, which is why Ha Long Bay is recognized by UNESCO as a world natural wonder and attracts a large number of tourists every year. 

The cruise will take you to admire thousands of large and small rocky islands such as: Dog Stone Island, Fighting Cock Island, Incense Burner Island, Toad Island. You will feel like entering the animal world that has gone through millions of years of fossilization.

• Next, you will visit Sung Sot Cave - The largest cave in Ha Long Bay. Voted by the Association of Travel Agencies and Brokers of the Czech Republic as one of the 10 most beautiful caves in the world. The road to Sung Sot Cave winds under the canopy of the forest, the steps of stone overlapping, tourists have the fun of mountaineers, and have the excitement as if going up to heaven. The cave is divided into two main compartments, the entire compartment one is like a large theater. The ceiling of the cave is covered with a layer of “velvet” carpet, countless “hanging lamps” made of stalactites shining brightly, stone statues, stone elephants, seals, rice cakes, flowers and leaves … all seem to be moving in a magical world like real like a dream.

• Transfer to the airport for the flight REP

• Upon your arrival at Siem Reap International Airport (TBA flight), you will be warmly greeted by your tour guide. Discover the rich history, culture, and life aspects of Cambodia as you transfer to Siem Reap Town. Check into your hotel.

Day 1:  Siem Reap - tonle sap lake
After breakfast, embark on a journey to the Tonle Sap Lake and its floating village, Chong Kneas Floating Village, and fishing community. Gain insights into the unique ecological system of this productive lake, cruising around the floating village to observe the local way of life. Enjoy free time on the lake to admire the sunset view. Overnight at the hotel in Siem Reap.

Day 2:  Siem Reap – Angkor Archeological Park (B)
After breakfast, delve into the wonders of the Angkor Archaeological Park. Begin with Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmer Empire, exploring the Bayon temple with its 216 mysterious faces. Witness the bas-reliefs at Phimean Akas, Elephant and Leper King Terraces, and the Royal Enclosure.

In the afternoon, continue your exploration with visits to Ta Prohm, where nature and man-made art interact dynamically, and the legendary Angkor Wat, a breathtaking masterpiece showcasing the pinnacle of Khmer Art. Overnight at the hotel in Siem Reap.

Day 3: Siem Reap - CITY TOUR 🚘 PHNOM PENH (B)
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a half-day city tour. Visit Wat Bo Temple, an older monastery in Siem Reap with beautiful decorations and the legend of Buddha. Transfer to Khmer Ceramics & Fine Arts Centre for demonstrations and Les Artisans d' Angkor for displays of traditional Cambodian crafts. Spend free time at T-Gallery for quality shopping.

• In the afternoon, take a private transfer (no guide) to Phnom Penh (~6 hours). Check in at the hotel upon your arrival. Overnight at the hotel in Phnom Penh.

• Meal: Breakfast

Day 4 : PHNOM PENH - CITY TOURS
Embark on a morning city tour, starting with a visit to the Killing Fields site. Sightseeing here involves one hour on foot. Drive another 30 minutes to Tuol Sleng Museum, commemorating the atrocities during the Pol Pot regime. Spend some reflective time at the Russian Markets in the afternoon, exploring the town's center.

Continue the city tour with visits to Wat Phnom, Victory Monument, the Royal Statue of late King-father Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk, Independent Monument, the Royal Palace, and the Silver Pagoda. The evening includes a quick tour of Central Market. Overnight at the hotel in Phnom Penh.

Day 5 : PHNOM PENH - departure 
Have breakfast at the hotel and enjoy free leisure time until it's time for your departure flight. Transfer to the airport  for your journey back home. End of Services.