Classic Vietnam

All content by Intrepid

15 days (ex Ho Chi Minh City)

Destinations visited: Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, World

Physical rating:
Culture shock rating:

Physical Ratings

The physical rating gives you an idea of how much huffing and puffing you can expect on the trip. While generalisations are always tricky, a summary of our ratings follows:

Rating 1

These trips are a relaxing break. You don't have to worry about doing anything physically demanding unless you want to.

Rating 2

Some easy physical activities included in your trip. No physical preparation is required to make the most of the journey.

Rating 3

This trip will raise your heartbeat. Moderate physical activities are included and a good level of fitness is required.

Rating 4

Be prepared for some serious physical activity. The majority of activities included on this trip will be challenging. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy your holiday.

Rating 5

Intrepid’s highest physical rating. Get ready for a heart-pumping adventure with plenty of challenges and some extreme conditions. You will be required to be seriously fit for this trip as difficult activities are included.

Culture Shock Ratings

The culture shock rating considers the level of development in the location, the area's infrastructure and how easy it is to access services. It also takes into consideration how different the food and customs are and whether English is widely spoken. While generalisations are always tricky, here’s a summary of the ratings:

Rating 1

This is the least confronting of Intrepid's product range. English is the native language and the food, customs and access to services will be familiar to you.

Rating 2

You will probably have experienced food like this in restaurants back home and English is commonly spoken. Services are available most of the time but there may be some cultural differences.

Rating 3

Expect some culture shock. You will be exposed to signs of poverty and access to services may be sporadic. The food will be quite different to home and English speakers harder to find. Respecting the local culture will make it easier to fit in and really experience the location.

Rating 4

The comforts of home are more of a rarity. English is not common and the food will be quite different to what you are used to. It is important to observe some of the local customs to not cause offence. Many of the locals' standard of living may be confronting.

Rating 5

You're really out there! You'll need to pay specific attention to health and hygiene. A large proportion of locals' living conditions are a world away from standards you are used to. You may have difficulty finding an English speaker and there is little or no access to services. Paying heed to local customs is essential.

LAST MINUTE OFFER

Leave Jul 04, 2012 and save 25% $1,583

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Description

From south to north, Vietnam is a kaleidoscope of wonderful people and picturesque landscapes. Imagine learning the mysteries of the Viet Minh in Ho Chi Minh City or exploring the beautiful lakes and boulevards of Hanoi - and what better way to get to know the locals than to be their guests on a Mekong Delta homestay? Experience historical temples, visit Vietnam's spectacular coastline, enjoy delicious banquets and explore lively cities - all with a touch of comfort - on this 15-day Classic Vietnam tour.

Highlights

Get caught up in the bustle of Ho Chi Minh City.
Float across sparkling waters on a Halong Bay tour.
Learn about local life on a Mekong homestay.
Walk along unspoilt beaches in Nha Trang.
Visit the Old Quarter of Hanoi for a spot of shopping.
Discover imperial Vietnam in Hue.
Descend into the tight confines of the Cu Chi Tunnels.
Watch a traditional water puppet performance in Hanoi.
Feast on mouth-watering Vietnamese cuisine.

Itinerary

Day 1 Ho Chi Minh City

Daily life overflows onto the streets, into French-style cafes and then quietens in the peaceful pagodas of Ho Chi Minh City. Join the throngs of visitors who flock here to discover Vietnam's rich culture and history.

Day 2 Mekong Delta

Stop by the ornate Vinh Trang Pagoda before embarking on a fascinating Mekong Delta tour. Cruise the maze of waterways that are the lifeblood of the region and enjoy traditional Mekong hospitality on a homestay.

Days 3-4 Ho Chi Minh City

Awaken early to mingle with locals on the Mekong River's famous floating markets. Visit the mind-boggling Cu Chi Tunnels on the way back to Ho Chi Minh City then further enjoy the sights and sounds on a cyclo tour. Spend time at the sobering War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Palace before taking an overnight train to Nha Trang.

Days 5-6 Nha Trang

With a dramatic mountain backdrop and a shimmering sea, Nha Trang is the perfect place for a beach break. Enjoy a cyclo tour and then cruise the nearby islands, stopping to swim and snorkel in the balmy sea. Feast on the day's catch before experiencing Nha Trang's famed nightlife.

Days 7-9 Hoi An

Once an international trading port, Hoi An still retains an enchanting sense of centuries past. Walk through the raucous Hoi An market, venture out to see the ancient Cham ruins at My Son or perhaps cycle to nearby Cua Dai Beach to soak up some rays.

Days 10-11 Hue

Stop at lovely Lang Co Beach for lunch en route to the walled city of Hue, once the exclusive domain of Vietnam's royal rulers. See the ruins of the Imperial Citadel and a spectacular royal tomb before gliding peacefully down the Perfume River on a dragonboat.

Day 12 Hanoi

Despite the throngs of bicycles, cyclos and motorbikes, Vietnam's bewitching capital Hanoi retains its French-provincial air. Visit the Temple of Literature and the Fine Arts Museum before attending an evening water puppet performance.

Day 13 Halong Bay

Start the day with breakfast at KOTO, an Intrepid Travel-supported organisation that trains disadvantaged young people in restaurant management and hospitality. Board a junk boat tour across the jade waters of Halong Bay and discover secluded beaches, secret grottoes and soaring karst peaks. Fall asleep to the sound of lapping water amid this incredible landscape.

Days 14-15 Hanoi

See artisans crafting traditional ceramics before making tracks back to Hanoi. Finish up in the heart of Hanoi's Old Quarter and perhaps celebrate with a final feast.

Group Size

Maximum of 12 travellers per group

Accommodation

Hotel (11 nts), Homestay (1 nt), Overnight sleeper train (1 nt), Overnight boat (1 nt)

Transport

Bus, Boat, Overnight sleeper train, Private vehicle, Cyclo, Plane

Budget

Allow USD $250 for meals not included.

Check dates and prices
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from USD$2,110

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