CLASSIC VIETNAM

Day 1 Hanoi

Arrive in the atmospheric capital of Vietnam, Hanoi.

Overnight: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

Day 2 Hanoi

Images of Ho Chi Minh ('Uncle Ho') are everywhere and a visit to his imposing mausoleum is always fascinating, but especially evocative at sunrise for the pomp and ceremony of the flag raising ceremony. The picturesque Temple of Literature was the country's first university and now only teaches the philosophies of Confucianism. A traditional cyclo tour is the best way to explore the colourful narrow streets of the Old Quarter and this is the best place to take in a water puppet show, dating back over 1000 years.

Overnight: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

Day 3 - 4 Vietnamese Coast

Enjoy three days and two nights sailing through the incredible limestone karsts of Halong Bay. Explore caves, swim in the warm waters of a peaceful bay and appreciate the views as your traditional junk glides between the islands.

Overnight: Au Co

Day 5 Hanoi

Return to Hanoi this afternoon and relax by the pool.

Overnight: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

Day 6 Hue

Fly to Hue, capital of the imperial Nguyen dynasty between 1802 and 1945. This afternoon you can cruise along the Perfume River, visit the most impressive temple in town at the Thien Mu Pagoda and the lively Dong Ba Market.

Overnight: Ancient Hue Garden Houses

Day 7 Hue

Your exploration of this charming riverside city will include the mausoleum of Emperor Tu Duc and the fascinating Imperial Citadel, bearing the scars of fierce fighting during the Vietnam War.

Overnight: Ancient Hue Garden Houses

Day 8 Hoi An

Drive through the stunning Hai Van pass - the 21km stretch of road crossing over where the Annamese Mountain Range meets the Eastern Sea - and along the coast to Hoi An.

Overnight: Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai

Day 9 - 10 Hoi An

The historic town of Hoi An, protected by UNESCO, is close by and offers a charming combination of architecture, cafe culture and great shopping. The rest of your time can be enjoyed simply relaxing in your luxurious villa, lapping one of the stunning infinity pools or being pampered in the fantastic spa.

Overnight: Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai

Day 11 Saigon

Transfer to Danang and fly to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). On arrival, transfer to your riverfront hotel situated in Ho Chi Minh's trendy 'District 2', known for its lively arts scene, boutiques and stylish eateries.

Overnight: Mia Saigon

Day 12 Saigon

Discover the infamous Cu Chi Tunnels and learn about the lives and tactics of the Vietnamese guerrillas during the American War. Return to the city and explore the incredible War Remnants Museum as well as seeing the highlights of Reunification Palace, Central Post Office and the Opera House. This evening jump onto the back of a Vespa for a thrilling "Vespa After Dark" tour as your experienced driver-guide meanders through the traffic and down the back streets so that you can experience hidden bars, coffee shops and the most delicious street food.

Overnight: Mia Saigon

Day 13 Mekong Delta

Transfer to Can Tho on the Mekong Delta, to your boutique hotel on an islet only accessible by boat. This is the perfect base from which to explore the waterways and witness the traditional way of life in the Delta.

Overnight: Legacy Mekong

Day 14 Mekong Delta

Enjoy a full day on a local boat from Cai Be to Vinh Long. Highlights will include colourful, floating markets, rowing your own sampan (traditional, flat-bottomed boat) and villages showcasing their home industries.

Overnight: Legacy Mekong

Day 15 Depart

This morning you will be driven back to Saigon in time for your flight home.