Vietnam

Cultural Explorer

All senses will be engaged on this active exploration of the natural and cultural treasures of Vietnam.

Vietnam Trip Overview

Our exploration of one of Southeast Asia's most interesting countries begins in the southern capital of Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, where we explore poignant war sites such as the Cu Chi Tunnels. In the following days, you'll discover sacred caves, relax aboard longboats on scenic rivers, cruise Ha Long Bay in a traditional junk, immerse yourself in historic towns, and peruse evening markets with your expert local guide. Our journey ends with Hanoi, long called the “Paris of the Orient.”

Vietnam Tour Itinerary At a Glance

Days 1-2: Ho Chi Minh City. Explore the former city of Saigon, from the Chinese quarter of Cholon, to the Reunification Palace and Cu Chi Tunnels. We'll discover that this city and its surroundings have many stories - both ancient and modern - to tell. Enjoy dining on Vietnamese specialties and learning about the incredible variety of dishes, flavors, and spices from south to north.

Days 3-4 Hué. Explore the life and times of Vietnam's greatest Emporer, Tu Duc. Visit the Citadel, Imperial Palace, and Forbidden Purple City. Enjoy a sunset boat ride on the Perfume River.

Days 5-6: Hoi An. Walk and bicycle through villages where traditional ways are still very much evident. Explore Hoi An's well-preserved trading port with its mix of Japanese, Chinese, and European architecture. Hike amid the spectacular Marble Mountains and My Son, replete with Cham cultural relics and views over China Beach.

Days 7-8: Ha Long Bay. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay while on an overnight cruise on a luxury traditional junk.

Days 9-10: Hanoi. Tour historic and cultural sites of Hanoi including Ho Chi Minh’s house, the One Pillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature, and the city’s Old Quarter. Dine at renowned restuarants featuring a fusion of Asian and colonial influences. On the morning of Day 10 you may depart from Hanoi at your leisure.

Please note that the itinerary presented here is for our December 30 - January 8, 2014 departure. If you are interested in our November 11-20, 2013 departure, the itinerary will be in reverse order. Please inquire for a detailed itinerary.

The Boundless Journeys Advantage:

A passion for travel. Simply put, we love to travel, and that is woven into every one of our journeys.
Unique, award-winning itineraries. Our flexible, hand-crafted journeys have received accolades from the world’s most revered travel publications.
Insider connections. There is simply no substitute for traveling with a knowledgeable insider.
Small groups. We tread softly, and our average group size is just 6-8 guests.
Flexibility to suit your travel style. We offer both small-group departures and Private Collection trips, so that you can choose which works best for you.
Customer service that goes the extra mile. There is no request that is too big – or too small – for our staff to handle.
Sustainability. We are committed to traveling responsibly – striving to preserve traditions and cultures around the world, and to protect fragile natural habitats.

Group Size

2-16 guests

Trip Rating (1 Easiest - 5 Most Strenuous)

Description of Trip Ratings

Adventure travel may involve exotic destinations, unusual levels of physical exertion, and activities that may be new to you. We want to make sure that you choose the adventure that's right for you from our many one-of-a-kind trips. Each trip is rated on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 being the easiest, and 5 being the most strenuous. A few of our trips have had a “+” added to the number, indicating something that falls in between. Our Trip Ratings may be found on the trip schedule and on our website. Our detailed itineraries provide additional information on what to expect on the trip you are considering (detailed itineraries are available by mail, fax, or e-mail; or you can find them on our website, www.boundlessjourneys.com).We encourage you to call one of our travel experts with any questions or concerns that you may have. We are always happy to assist you in any way that we can.

EASIEST 1

Our easiest trips are generally hotel-based cultural and nature journeys that typically offer light activity. Optional walks and hikes (approximately 2 to 4 hours) through gentle terrain with little elevation gain or loss. Altitude is typically not a factor on these tours. Other activities, such as snorkeling or sea kayaking, are optional. Examples: Indochina, Vietnam, Egypt, Galapagos Islands, Botswana, Tanzania.

EASY TO MODERATE 2

Hotel nights and/or deluxe, safari-style camping. Walking, hiking (approximately 3 to 5 hours), kayaking, or other activities on most days. Trails and paths are through rolling countryside, with occasional steep trails with up to 1,000 feet of elevation gain. Many of our hotel-based walking trips are in this category. Examples: Tuscany & Umbria, Sicily, Morocco, Palau, Iceland, Turkey, Festivals of Bhutan, Costa Rica.

MODERATE 3

Full day hikes (approximately 4 to 6 hours) most days on unpaved trails and paths through hilly terrain with typical elevation gains and losses of 1,000 to 2,000 feet. There may be occasional short steep sections of trail. Examples: Chile, Scotland, Spain, Bhutan & Nepal.

MODERATE TO STRENUOUS 4

Full day hikes (approximately 5 to 7 hours) through mountainous terrain with significant elevation gains and losses (2,000 to 3,000 feet). Terrain may be rugged with uneven footpaths. The average altitude is generally no more than 12,000 feet. Options are limited. These trips typically involve some camping or simple accommodations. Examples: Tour du Mont Blanc, Peru Trek, Bhutan Chomolhari Trek..

MOST STRENUOUS 5

Full-day trekking (approximately 6 to 8 hours) through rugged mountainous terrain with steep climbs and descents and one or more of the following present: elevation gains and losses of as much as 4,000 feet, altitude that exceeds 12,000 feet, and rugged uneven footpaths. These trips typically offer few options and include camping.

Activity Details

Easy cultural touring and walking.

Meeting Point

Hanoi, Vietnam (Nov); Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam (Dec)

Departure Point

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam (Nov); Hanoi, Vietnam (Dec)

Traveling To and From

Most Convenient Airport for Arrival:
Nov tour: Hanoi International Airport, Hanoi, Vietnam (airport code HAN)
Dec tour: Tan Son Nhat International Airport, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam (airport code SGN)

Meeting Time and Place:
Nov tour: Hanoi International Airport, upon the arrival of your international flight on Day 1 of the tour.
Dec tour: Tan Son Nhat International Airport, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on Day 1 of the tour.

Most Convenient Airport for Departure:
Nov tour: Airport transfers to Tan Son Nhat International Airport, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam will be provided.
Dec tour: Airport transfers to Hanoi International Aiport, Hanoi, Vietnam will be provided.

Departure Time and Place:
Day 10, at your leisure. Airport transfers will be provided.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Trip Rating
Boundless Journeys’ trips are designed for energetic and flexible individuals who like to be active and have a spirit of adventure and a positive attitude. Cultural Explorer is rated 1+, easy with some moderate options on a scale of 1-5 (with 5 being the most strenuous). The walks on this trip are day walks with some vehicle support. Much of the walking will be flat terrain, in and around villages, towns and temples, 4-6 hours per day, broken up by rest and meals.

Preparing for this Trip
It is very important that you realistically assess your physical condition with regard to the demands of this trip. The more well-prepared you are for the activities on this trip, the more you will enjoy yourself! Please engage in moderate aerobic activities (walking, jogging, cycling) for at least 30-45 minutes several times a week for 4-6 weeks before the trip. If you live in a flat area, try to incorporate some stairs into your workout, or use a treadmill with varying incline capability. Consult your doctor before undertaking any new fitness program.

Weather
During our trip, you will likely experience a range of weather conditions, as various locations fall within different climate zones. While Hanoi will be relatively cool, Ho Chi Minh City will be warmer. The range of temperatures you might expect to encounter is listed here:

Hanoi:

October: 84°F - 71°F
November: 76°F - 66°F
December: 71°F - 59°F
January: 68°F - 55°F
February: 67°F - 60°F
March: 73°F - 63°F

Ho Chi Minh City:

October: 87°F - 76°F
November: 87°F - 74°F
December: 87°F - 72°F
January: 88°F - 72°F
February: 90°F - 73°F
March: 92°F - 76°F

You can obtain more detailed weather information at www.weatherbase.com.

When to Go
The cooler dry season lasts from October to March. In October and November, arriving just after the rainy season, you’ll have the benefit of being there for the newly greened trees and rice paddies, as well as the much clearer air quality that can be expected at this time of year. December through March remain much drier and a bit cooler than during the summer months. However, it is possible to have some rain at any time of year.

Vietnam Tour Accommodations

Overview: Deluxe, first-class hotels, ideally located, and a deluxe Ha Long Bay junk (a traditionally rigged Asian sailing vessel). All with private baths and many amenities.

Note: The sequence is in reverse for our November tour. Please inquire for further details.

Nights 1 & 2 : Rex Hotel
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Strategically located in old downtown Saigon, Rex is a luxury heritage hotel dating to early 20th century when it originally opened as a French garage. For over 80 years, the Rex has been a landmark, as well as a witness of the ups and downs of the city’s history.

Nights 3 & 4: La Résidence Hôtel and Spa
Hué, Vietnam

Indochina Cultural Tour - La Residence Hotel and Spa, Hue, Vietnam La Résidence Hôtel and Spa in Hué, Vietnam is an enchanting boutique hotel on the banks of the Perfume River, overlooking the former Imperial Citadel.

Nights 5 & 6: Life Resort
Hoi An Town, Vietnam

Indochina Culural Tour - Life Resort, Hoi An, Vietnam

Located in the French colonial quarter of Hoi An, this tranquil property has landscaped gardens and is situated on the riverbank, just a few minutes walk from the center of town. All rooms have a bedroom, living area and private porch.

Note: We regularly use Life Resort, although for our December tour we are booked at Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort. Please inquire when booking.

Night 7: Paradise Luxury Cruiser
Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
Vietnam Cultural Tour - Paradise Sailing Junk, Ha Long Bay, Vietnam This traditionally rigged Asian sailing vessel offers the highest standards for services and amenities on Ha Long Bay. This junk has 12 cabins, stylishly decorated with an antique Asian motif. There is also a restaurant, lounge, and sundeck offering uninterrupted views of the bay.

Nights 8 & 9: Sofitel Legend Metropole
Hanoi, Vietnam
On Condé Nast Traveler’s prestigious 2010 "Gold List" as one of the best hotels in Vietnam.

Vietnam Cultural Tour - Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel, Hanoi, Vietnam This French-colonial style building has stood proudly in the heart of Hanoi since 1901. The hotel has a rich history and lovely rooms, a recently built spa, and swimming pool.

Vietnam Tour Itinerary

DAY 1
Ho Chi Minh City

Upon arrival of your international flight to Ho Chi Minh City, you will be met at the airport and transferred to our hotel. For the rest of today you are free to relax after your travels. This evening, we’ll gather with our guide and fellow guests for a welcome dinner at an acclaimed restaurant featuring the best of traditional Vietnamese specialties. The restaurant is set in a restored French colonial house, and will introduce you to the French influences on Vietnamese culture.

Rex Hotel, Ho Chi Minh City

DAY 2

Chu Chi Tunnels and Ho Chi Minh City tour

Walking – easy, 2-3 hours on dirt paths and city streets.

This morning we’ll depart early for a one and a half hour drive to explore the Cu Chi Tunnels. During the Vietnam War the Vietcong dug an extensive tunnel complex that served as a sanctuary in the fight against American forces. Part of the complex has been left in its original state. For those who are comfortable with very close quarters, we’ll have an opportunity to crawl through some of these tunnels, a unique experience indeed.

Upon our return to Ho Chi Minh City we’ll enjoy lunch at a popular local restaurant specializing in the subtle flavors of French and Vietnamese cuisines. In the afternoon, we will visit the Reunification Palace, which was the residence of the president of South Vietnam until 1975. We’ll also visit the War Remnants Museum, where various themed rooms display images and artifacts from the war. This may be a very moving visit for some with memories of this time in history. We conclude our tour with a visit to the lively Ben Thanh Market, an ideal place for shopping.

This evening we return to our landmark hotel and freshen up for our special New Years Eve gala dinner at the hotel.

Rex Hotel, Ho Chi Minh City

DAY 3

Cholon exploration; Transfer to Hue

Walking – easy, 1-2 hours on city streets.

Driving – 2.5-3 hours.

After breakfast, we head out to explore Cholon (the Chinese quarter), including the Thien Hau and Giac Vien pagodas, and then on to stroll through the sprawling Binh Tay Market. Afer enjoying lunch at a restaurant featuring a blend of Vietnamese dishes from north to south, we transfer to the airport for our flight to Hué.

From 1802 to 1945, Hué was the country’s political capital under the Nguyen Dynasty’s thirteen emperors. Hué was very much caught in the crossfire during the years of war with the Americans. The educated populace tended to support neither the North nor the South, but still they suffered from their location in between the two. Hué experienced truly awful devastation when, during the 1968 Tet Offensive, the North Vietnamese held the city for nearly a month, using the ancient citadel as their base of operations. American soldiers fought to regain the city but did so only after an estimated 10,000 people died (many of them Hué civilians) and the city’s many important historic cultural sites were destroyed. Restoration is steadily underway, and today you will find Hué to be a rather small and quiet town, especially in comparison to the northern and southern capitals of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

We enjoy dinner in one of our favorite restaurants situated just outside the Forbidden Purple City in the Citadel, enjoying the ambience of a quiter pace and ancient history.

La Résidence Hotel and Spa, Hué

DAY 4

Walking tour of the Forbidden Purle City and cyclo tour of the Citadel; Tu Duc Tomb and evening boat ride on Perfume River

Walking – easy, 2 hours.

This morning we visit the Forbidden Purple City. In the early 19th century, Emperor Gia Long conscripted thousands of laborers to build a replica of Beijing’s Forbidden City. Extensive moats and thick stone walls form the outer perimeter. The Emperor decided to locate his own palace within the walls of the citadel, and a second, smaller set of walls and moat were built to define the area of the Forbidden Purple City. Here a network of palaces, gates, and courtyards served as his home and the core of his empire. Largely destroyed during the 1968 Tet Offensive, the city has now been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and those buildings that remain have been painstakingly restored. After time to explore, we take a cyclo ride around the perimeter of the Citadel, which gives us a glimpse into daily life.

We then are introduced to our first Royal Tomb, the one of Khai Dinh King. This final resting place of the Emperor of Vietnam from 1916-1925 represents a fusion of traditional Vietnamese style and modern influence, and includes many European architectural details.

Afterwards we enjoy a special lunch prepared by the nuns of Dong Thuyen pagoda (perhaps featuring Banh Khoai, a delicious Hué trademark). Following lunch, we focus on the life of one of the most interesting emperors of Vietnam, Tu Duc and visit the elaborate grounds of his tomb and where he spent the latter years of his life. Vietnam’s fourth emperor, living from 1829 until 1883, is said to have had 104 concubines. During his reign, his country lost its independence to France. From a landing on the Perfume River we board a dragon boat for a pleasant river journey back to our hotel. Along the way, we stop at the Tien Mu Pagoda – very characteristic of the architecture of its time. We enjoy dinner at our hotel this evening.

La Résidence Hotel and Spa, Hué

DAY 5

Transfer to Hoi An; Marble Mountain hike and Hoi An walking tour.

Walking – easy, 2-3 hours.

Driving – 3 hours.

This morning after breakfast, make our way to Hoi An. En route to Hoi An, we ascend Hai Van Pass, with its incredible views over the Lang Co Lagoon and the South China Sea. Just south of Danag, a major commerical center of Vietnam and sight to the largest American military base during the Vietnam war, we will stretch our legs at Marble Mountain and take a short climb up to see the shrines and limestone caves that blanket the hills.

We then continue to Hoi An, a picturesque town along the Thu Bon River. This exceptionally well-preserved example of a Southeast Asian trading port, dating from the 15th century, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. Upon our arrival, we will enjoy some local specialites of central Vietnam for lunch.

Following lunch, we embark on a walking tour of Hoi An’s charming old town with its numerous historic houses, congregation halls, pagodas, and other structures. Its buildings and its street plan reflect the varied influences, both indigenous and foreign, that have combined to produce this unique heritage site. Among our stops this afternoon will be the Museum of History and Culture, Tan Ky house, the Japanese Bridge, and the Fujian Assembly Hall. As Hoi An is known for its extraordinary talent in tailoring, we’ll also visit the local cloth market where we are introduced to this trade.

The evening will be yours to explore Hoi An, which is very festive at night, and you may enjoy dinner at one of the many wonderful restaurants in the old quarter.

Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort, Hoi An

DAY 6

My Son Cham Ruins; Afternoon Biking

Walking – easy, 1-2 hours.

Afternoon biking – easy, 1-2 hours.

We will depart after breakfast this morning by car to explore the ancient Cham ruins of My Son, about one hour outside of Hoi An. The Champa reigned over central Vietnam from the 2nd to 15th centuries and you can still see cultural influences of their kingdom today in techniques for pottery, fishing, and agriculture, as well as in temple sturctures which emoby influences from the Hindu traditions. Our bucolic drive will take us through the countryside outside of Hoi An. Although the temples of My Son are in relative disrepair, the partially overgrown vegetation encroaching on the temples actually adds to the mystique and intimate feel of the sight. We will have the chance to walk around for about an hour to take in the tranquil setting and learn about these ingenious and spiritual people.

Upon returning to Hoi An, you will be free to enjoy lunch on your own. During the afternoon we will explore by bicycle a pair of nearby villages, whose people earn their livelihoods doing carpentry and building boats. This will be our first introduction into rural vietnam and is a wonderful way to experience the countryside.

This evening, you are free to wander the vibrant markets of Hoi An and perhaps you will choose to visit one of the many famous tailors or take a cooking class to learn the subtelties of Vietnamese cooking. You may enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants on your own this evening.

Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort, Hoi An

Day 7

Flight to Hanoi and transfer to Ha Long Bay

Cruising aboard a traditional junk; optional swimming and kayaking – easy.

This morning we take an early morning flight to Hanoi and drive to Ha Long Bay (approximately 3 hours). Ha Long Bay, in the Gulf of Tonkin, includes some 1,600 islands and islets, forming a spectacular seascape of limestone pillars. In 1994 this unique landscape was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Upon arrival you will board a deluxe Asian “junk” for a two-day trip through the bay. After a lunch of Asian-fusion specialties on board while sailing into the bay, various excursions are available this afternoon. You can visit Hang Sung Sot cave (sometimes called “Surprising Cave”) and we’ll moor at a pristine beach for a swim, or perhaps a paddling adventure by kayak (no experience necessary). There will also be a cooking demonstration by the ship’s chef to reveal some of the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine.

This evening, enjoy sunset from the deck before an elegant five-course dinner in the restaurant. Afterward, you can enjoy the decks, fish, and socialize with other travelers.

Paradise Sailing Junk, Ha Long Bay

DAY 8

Ha Long Bay; return to Hanoi

Optional Tai Chi lesson – easy, about 1 hour; optional hike – moderate, about 30 minutes.

Early risers will be treated to ideal light for photographs, and perhaps you’ll join other guests on deck for a morning Tai Chi lesson. After breakfast, we continue our cruise through the unforgettable landscape, stopping at one of the most spectacular beaches – Ti Top – where you are free to disembark and hike up 400 steps to a panoramic view of the bay.

We disembark the cruise by midday, and return to Hanoi by road. Along the way, we’ll take time to stop at a small village – perhaps Dong Ky, known for its beautiful hand-hewn furniture; here we wander the streets, visit open-air workshops, chat with the artisans and other local people going about their daily lives, and perhaps share a cup of tea.

Upon arrival in Hanoi, we check into our hotel and have some time to relax before dinner.

Sofitel Legend Metripole, Hanoi

DAY 9

Ho Chi Minh’s House, One Pillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature, Old Quarter

Walking – easy city tour.

For those early risers, we have the option to set out before breakfast for a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, joining the locals in the daily Tai Chi routine before the heat of the day sets in. After returning to our hotel for breaksfast, we begin our exploration of Hanoi’s many historic and cultural sites. Ho Chi Minh’s masoleum will be our first stop (if open) and then we continue on to visit to the Presidential Palace where Ho Chi Minh lived and worked from 1954 to 1969. Originally the home of the Governor General of Indochina, the immaculate grounds became the center of revolutionary activity once North Vietnam achieved independence in 1954. Ho Chi Minh opted not to move into the palace at that time, believing it belonged to the North Vietnamese people, and instead lived in the neighboring “House on Stilts.” Here the revered Uncle Ho worked amid the gardens, mango alley, and carp-filled pond. The whole structure has been preserved in perfect condition, a tribute to the well-loved leader.

Next we visit the One Pillar Pagoda and the Temple of Literature. Built after King Ly Thai To’s vision of a bodhisattva sitting on a lotus in 1049, the lotus-shaped One Pillar Pagoda sits atop a pillar jutting out of a lily pond. Soon after the temple was built, the King’s wife gave birth to a son, and today childless couples visit the pagoda to make prayer offerings. The Temple of Literature is perhaps Hanoi’s best-preserved ancient site. Also built in the 11th century, Van Mieu, as it is known in Vietnamese, served as the national university for 700 years.

Midday we take a break for lunch at a local restaurant, featuring the famous dish of Hanoi, Cha Ca, a delightful mixture of lightly fried fish and fresh herbs over rice noodles. After this we take a relaxing one hour “cyclo” tour through the Old Quarter. Also known as the “36 Streets,” this bustling area of narrow alleys is home to literally thousands of small businesses and shopkeepers. It’s a great place to explore, with plenty of photo opportunities.

After freshening up at our hotel, if there is time we may enjoy a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show at the Thang Long Opera, before our farewell dinner, savoring Vietnamese cuisine one last time while we toast to our journey.

Sofitel Legend Metropole, Hanoi

DAY 10

Departure

Following breakfast, we will say farewell and depart for our onward journey. Airport transfer will be provided.

Trip Length

10 days

Trip Dates

Upcoming Trips:

Nov 11–20, 2013
Dec 30, 2013–Jan 08, 2014

2013 Land Cost

$4,195 per person

Single Supplement

First two reserved on each departure: $500; Additional singles: $1100

View Single Supplement Policy

Internal Airfare

$240

View Internal Airfare Description

What's Included

Expert leadership
All accommodations, including an overnight on a deluxe traditional junk on Ha Long Bay
Private, air-conditioned ground transportation
All meals except one lunch and two dinners
Entry fees
All activities as noted in the itinerary

Please complete the following information to request a reservation. A trip deposit of $500 per person is required to confirm your reservation (payable by check or major credit card). Once we receive your request we will contact you within one business day to confirm availability and answer any questions you may have.

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About our guides
With a Boundless Journeys guide, your experience is that of friend and local adventurer. We believe strongly in working with local guides, experts in the areas to which we travel, and they hold the keys to unlocking the hidden delights of your chosen destination. Although you will never know they are at work – the mark of a truly great leader – our guides make magical things happen and add a dimension to your trip that you could not experience on your own.

Over the years we have forged bonds with some of the best guides in the world, and we typically work with a small team of guides in each region. You will be informed of the guide for your trip one month prior to your departure.

Featured Guide

Costa Rica Tour guide - Pedro Bolanes - Boundless Journeys Elske de Vries: Elske was born in Surabaya, Indonesia, and later raised in a small village in the Netherlands, giving her a unique perspective on global culture and travel. Currently living in Bangkok and working as a tour leader in Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia, Elske loves introducing guests to new experiences. When not working, she enjoys exploring Asia with her camera in hand. Throughout your travels in Vietnam, Elske will be joined in each region by a local guide to further enhance your experience.

What other guests have said about our guides in Vietnam:

"Our guide was the best! She was just so good in every way ― very knowledgeable and easygoing. I wanted to visit a hospital and she arranged that too. She did an A+ job! This was a trip of a lifetime. I have wanted to go to Vietnam and Cambodia for 35 years and this was everything I wanted to see and more. I would highly recommend this trip for anyone who is interest in Vietnam as it was very well planned and included everything one could want to see and do! It was the dream adventure of a lifetime and I will tell all my friends to take a Boundless Journeys trip.” – S.H., Keene, NH

Picture Yourself Here:

Exploring the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Ha Long Bay, Hué, and Hoi An

Immersing yourself in Hanoi, the "Paris of the Orient"

Discovering poignant sites of war history, from Cu Chi Tunnels to China Beach

Perusing markets and indulging in authentic Vietnamese cuisine with its blend of French and Asian influences

Upcoming Trips:

Nov 11–20, 2013
Dec 30, 2013–Jan 08, 2014

Latest Blog Posts About Vietnam

Exploring Vietnamese Cuisine

My Vietnamese guide Su Xuan lead me through the narrow alleyways of the Old quarter of Hanoi, pointing out the astonishing variety of street food delicacies from vendors’ stalls spilling out onto the pavement.

A fascinating side trip, Boundless Journeys-style – Vietnam

- Written by Boundless Journeys’ Vietnam guest Barbara H. Because my husband is in the furniture business, our guide Elske arranged for a visit to a village that makes heavy, traditional Asian furniture.

An Update From the Foundation for African Medicine & Education

A few years back a group of Boundless Journeys guests on our Tanzania: Migration Safari shared a special experience. They engaged in volunteer work at the Foundation for African Medicine & Education (FAME).

Get to know Boundless Journeys

Deborah Tobey, Destination Manager What types of trips do you offer and who are your customers? Many consider Boundless Journeys trips to be a bucket list for the adventurer’s soul. Our itineraries span from majestic peaks to lush landscapes, from serene deserts to dramatic coastlines, and from historical meccas to the world’s great wildernesses.

Iceland Special Opportunity

Only a few more rooms available for our Iceland: The Land of Fire and Ice hiking tour, July 17-24. Call 800.941.8010 or e-mail Karen@boundlessjourneys.com for details and to learn about special incentives to join us.

Testimonials

Turkey Turquopise Coast cruise trip "This was an exceptional journey. Turkey has such an ancient history that is there to observe. The trip made the most of our time, was very efficiently planned, led by an exceptional guide. We visited so many ancient sites, observing layers of history going back to 12,000 BC, at the same time engaging the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea."
- Suzanne Scheer, Turkey: Istanbul to the Turquoise Coast

Activities

Nature & Safaris Cultural Encounters Trekking Hiking & Walking Expedition Cruising Family Friendly

Destinations

Palau China India Mongolia Bhutan Bhutan & Nepal Botswana Tanzania Morocco Iceland Italy Ireland France, Italy, Switzerland Turkey Spain Peru Ecuador Costa Rica Egypt Nepal Uganda Zanzibar Namibia Seychelles Ecuador & Peru Scotland Vietnam Antarctica Cambodia Jordan Tanzania & Kenya Tibet Laos Republic of the Congo Myanmar Chile & Argentina

Classic Adventures

Oceania Odyssey The Silk Road from Yunnan to Tibet Royal Rajasthan Land of the Nomads A Journey into the Peaceful Kingdom The Chomolhari Trek The Okavango Delta & Victoria Falls Migration Safari The Land of Fire and Ice Ancient Sicily A Taste of Tuscany & Umbria Gems of the Emerald Isle Tour du Mont Blanc Istanbul to the Turquoise Coast Vintage Rioja The Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Trekking the Hidden Inca Trail The Galapagos Islands Nature's Richness Revealed Highlands to the Coast Family Adventure Bwindi Gorilla Tracking Best of Namibia The Highland Way Beyond the Serengeti Cultural Explorer Antarctic Explorer Cultural Explorer Private Adventure Coast to Coast Multisport The Amalfi Coast & Capri The Best of East Africa The Roof of the World Private Migration Safari Ancient Passages Antarctic Express Southern Patagonia The Galapagos Islands Athala II New Years' Cruise

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Prefer a private trip for just you, and maybe some family or friends, on the dates of your choice? Please check out our Private Collection trips.

Prefer a private trip for just you, and maybe some family or friends, on the dates of your choice?Please check out our Private Collection trips.

Vietnam

All senses will be engaged on this active exploration of the natural and cultural treasures of Vietnam.

Vietnam Trip Overview

Vietnam Tour Itinerary At a Glance

The Boundless Journeys Advantage:

Group Size

Trip Rating (1 Easiest - 5 Most Strenuous)

Activity Details

Meeting Point

Departure Point

Traveling To and From

Vietnam Tour Accommodations

Vietnam Tour Itinerary

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Trip Dates

Upcoming Trips:

2013 Land Cost

Single Supplement

Internal Airfare

What's Included

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Prefer a private trip for just you, and maybe some family or friends, on the dates of your choice?
Please check out our Private Collection trips.

Prefer a private trip for just you, and maybe some family or friends, on the dates of your choice?
Please check out our Private Collection trips.