Welcome to Vietnam! Upon your arrival, you’ll be transported from the airport to your hotel. Your adventure kicks off with a welcome meeting at 5 PM, followed by a delightful dinner with your fellow travelers. Hanoi is renowned for its picturesque lakes, tree-lined boulevards, lush public parks, and the bustling Old Quarter. The Old Quarter itself resembles a charming 1930s French provincial town and is perfect for exploration if time permits.
Accommodation Hotel (1 night)
Meals Dinner
Included Activities Complimentary Arrival Transfer
Important Information Please ensure you attend the welcome meeting, as we will gather insurance details and emergency contact information for each family member. If you anticipate being late, inform your travel agent or hotel reception. Look for a notice in the lobby or ask reception for details about the meeting location.
The arrival transfer is applicable only if you arrive on Day 1 or have booked pre-trip accommodation through Intrepid. Make sure to provide your flight details when booking or at least 14 days before your trip, as requests made within 14 days of travel may not be accommodated.

Travel by minibus to the stunning Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site approximately 4 hours away. This awe-inspiring bay features around 2,000 limestone islands rising dramatically from the waters of the Bac Bo Gulf. Board your private boat for a scenic cruise among these striking limestone formations. Enjoy the chance to swim in the beautiful Vietnam East Sea and explore caves adorned with spectacular stalactites and stalagmites. Spend a serene night on board, under a star-filled sky.
Accommodation Overnight Boat (1 night)
Meals Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Included Activities

• Halong Bay – Overnight Boat Cruise

Special Information Recent regulations by local authorities have restricted overnight stays on many boats in Halong Bay, leading to a boat shortage. To accommodate all travelers, larger boats (usually with 12 cabins) may be used, and passengers might be distributed across multiple boats. Each boat will have a group leader, and the cruise route and onboard amenities will remain consistent.
Your boat features twin-share cabins, air-conditioning, and private facilities, along with a dining room and bar.

Day 4: Halong Bay to Hue
Start your day with breakfast on the boat, and if you wish, take an optional early morning kayak adventure. Afterward, return to Hanoi by bus (approximately 3.5 hours). From Hanoi, board an overnight train to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. Hue is known for its blend of vibrant streets and serene surroundings, reflecting Vietnam’s rich royal heritage. Although the train conditions are basic, this overnight journey is a quintessential Southeast Asian experience and an excellent way to cover long distances while interacting with locals. Relax and enjoy the ride! Most trains feature a dining carriage with simple food options, but it’s a good idea to bring along some fresh bread, cheese, and fruit for the trip.
Accommodation Overnight Sleeper Train (1 night)
Meals Breakfast
Add-On Activities

• Halong Bay – Kayaking

Special Information Sleeper trains generally have four-berth compartments, though occasionally six-berth compartments are used, depending on seasonal demand. The compartments feature bench seats that convert into sleeping bunks. You’ll receive a sheet, pillow, and blanket, though some travelers prefer to bring their own sleeping sheet. Occasionally, passengers of different genders may need to share a compartment, and you might share with local travelers or those not in your group.

Welcome to Hue! After disembarking from the overnight train, your guide will assist you in selecting a delicious local breakfast. Dive into the rich history of Vietnam’s former imperial capital with a day of exploration. Begin by visiting the Imperial Citadel, the most well-preserved remnant of the once grand citadel and royal center. Despite the devastation from past conflicts, the unique fortifications and the overgrown ruins offer a captivating glimpse into the past.
Continue your tour to the Forbidden Purple City, which suffered significant damage during the Tet Offensive in 1968. The bomb craters and ruins provide a stark reminder of the extensive destruction experienced during the war.
Next, visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, often regarded as the unofficial symbol of Hue. This active Buddhist monastery, established in 1601, features a notable exhibit: a car belonging to a monk who self-immolated in 1963 in protest against the persecution of Buddhists by the South Vietnamese government.
Accommodation Hotel (1 night)
Meals No meals included
Included Activities

• Hue – Imperial City Full Day Tour

Begin your day with breakfast and then explore the Tu Duc Tomb, the resting place of Emperor Tu Duc, who had the longest reign of the Nguyen dynasty from 1848 to 1883. Afterward, visit a local non-governmental organization dedicated to supporting Hue’s deaf community. This organization provides training, employment, and a support network for its members. Participate in a unique traditional paper flower making class conducted in silence through body language—a memorable experience for the entire family.
In the afternoon, embark on a cyclo tour through the vibrant streets of Hue. Enjoy a scenic ride around the citadel, explore local fruit and vegetable markets, and make a stop at Ho Chi Minh’s house.
Accommodation Hotel (1 night)
Meals Breakfast
Included Activities

• Hue – Royal Tomb of Emperor Tu Duc
• Hue – Lavin House Craft Experience
• Hue – Cyclo Tour

Travel by bus (approximately 4 hours) southwards through picturesque coastal rice paddies and over the stunning Hai Van Pass, offering breathtaking mountain views along the way. Make a brief stop at the scenic China Beach before arriving in Hoi An. Recently recognized as a World Heritage site, Hoi An is renowned for its charm and historical preservation. Once known as Faifo to early Western traders, this city was a major international port in Southeast Asia during the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. Many areas still reflect their historical essence, providing a captivating experience as you explore.
Accommodation Hotel (1 night)
Meals Breakfast
Included Activities

• Hoi An – Orientation Walk
• Hoi An – Old Town Walking Tour

Start your day with breakfast and then head to Cua Dai Beach for a relaxing morning. This beautiful beach features palm-fringed white sands and stunning views of the Cham Islands. Afterward, return to town and visit a local restaurant to learn how to prepare ‘white rose cake’, a beloved street food in Hoi An. These savory dumplings, made from rice paper and minced shrimp, are named for their resemblance to a white flower. Under the guidance of local instructors, you’ll learn the art of making these delicious treats. Once your creations are ready, enjoy a delightful lunch featuring your handmade white rose cakes. This interactive cooking experience is sure to be a hit with the whole family!
Accommodation Hotel (1 night)
Meals Breakfast Lunch

Enjoy a free day to unwind and explore Hoi An at your leisure. This charming city is an excellent spot for shopping, especially if you’re in search of souvenirs like t-shirts, paintings, or ceramics. Hoi An is also renowned for its tailoring services, making it a prime destination for custom clothing. If you’re interested in delving deeper into Vietnamese cuisine, consider speaking with your guide about arranging a cooking class to discover the rich flavors and fresh herbs characteristic of local dishes. Alternatively, you can simply relax and enjoy your day by the pool.
Accommodation Hotel (1 night)
Meals Breakfast

Fly to Ho Chi Minh City (approximately 1 hour), formerly known as Saigon. This dynamic metropolis offers a vibrant mix of historical charm and modern energy. Begin your exploration with a visit to Ben Thanh Market, where you can savor a variety of delicious local street foods for lunch. Following this, enjoy an orientation walk to get acquainted with the city’s layout and highlights.
The rest of the day is yours to explore at your own pace. Your guide will provide numerous suggestions to enhance your visit. Consider taking a cyclo ride to Cholon, the bustling Chinatown of Ho Chi Minh City, or embark on a temple-hopping adventure. Alternatively, immerse yourself in local shopping at a Vietnamese department store.
Accommodation Hotel (1 night)
Meals Breakfast Lunch
Included Activities

• Ho Chi Minh City – Orientation Walk

Travel south to the Mekong Delta, with a visit to the lesser-known Ben Tre, a region renowned for its coconut production. The journey to Ben Tre takes approximately 2.5 hours by private bus. This lush delta is celebrated for its rich harvests of tropical fruits and flowers. Upon arrival, board your private boat for a scenic cruise through the delta’s intricate waterways, where you’ll explore local cottage industries and gain insight into the region’s unique economy.
Later, head to your overnight homestay by the water. Experience authentic local life as you stay with a family, offering a rare glimpse into daily routines. Accommodations include simple camp beds in dorm-style rooms, with all meals provided. Bedding and mosquito nets are also available to ensure a comfortable stay.
Accommodation Homestay (1 night)
Meals Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Included Activities

• Mekong Delta – Boat Cruise and Homestay

Start your day early, following the local rhythm in the delta. Enjoy a relaxed morning before taking the bus back to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, you’ll have free time to continue exploring the city at your own pace. This is the perfect chance to revisit any attractions you might have missed earlier. Stroll through District 1 with your family and immerse yourself in the vibrant city atmosphere. If you’re a fan of Vietnamese cuisine, this is your opportunity to try more local specialties—perhaps savor some grilled cuttlefish or, for the more adventurous, street-barbecued sea snails.
Accommodation Hotel (1 night)
Meals Breakfast Dinner

On your final day, there are no scheduled activities, giving you the flexibility to check out of your accommodation at your convenience, in accordance with the hotel’s check-out policies.
Meals Breakfast