Tailor made Travel in VIETNAM Tailormade, personally bespoke itineraries with Arc Journeys
TRAVEL IN VIETNAM with Arc Journeys |
VIETNAM
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VIETNAM
In the last few years Vietnam has become a popular holiday destination and we know why. As the narrow piece of land stretches from the tropical south to temperate regions to the north it is not only the climate that changes. The racy commercialism of Ho Chi Minh City gives way to small villages and towns and Hanoi, the capital, is a mixture of French colonial architecture, modern multi-storey buildings and cluttered narrow streets where people squat to eat a bowl of noodles. Between these two major cities lie magnificent coastline, cool highland resorts, many fascinating ancient tombs, the Citadel in Hue and other reminders of past civilisations. And beyond them lie the enchantment of Ha Long Bay to the north and the rich rice fields of the Mekong Delta in the south. There are also tragic reminders of more recent history but the feeling from the people is positive rather than negative. The one thing that is consistent throughout the country is the natural beauty and friendliness of the people. A unique opportunity to see the real heart of Vietnam is through the SAIGON CHILDREN'S CHARITY. In order to support the work of the Saigon Children's Charity we can arrange for you to visit some of their projects in the south-east where children are given homes, education and training. This enables you to meet English speaking people totally unconnected with tourism and of course lots of smiling children. In return the cost of the excursion includes a donation to their work.
All our arrangements in Vietnam are tailor made to your requirements. Some of our own staff have travelled in Vietnam and we work in conjunction with a private, Vietnamese owned company. They were amongst the first organisations to handle foreign tourists when Vietnam became accessible to tourists and have fully qualified and experienced staff. The illustrations on the following pages are only to give an idea of some of the possibilities and to help you plan your route. If you let us know how long you can travel for, how many people and any specific interests you have we will arrange a quote for you free of charge and without obligation. Prices of course depend on your requirements but as a guide a private 12 day tour from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi for two people averages starts around £890.
Laos and Cambodia are sandwiched between Vietnam and Thailand and can be visited from either. Combination tours of any countries in our brochure are possible. In Asia these include India, Nepal, Yunnan, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and Australia. Ask for the relevant Dossiers if you are also interested in any of these.
HO CHI MINH CITY AND THE MEKONG DELTA
Vietnam is divided by its geography and corresponding cultures into several distinct regions. In the south the Mekong Delta is a low lying region of fertile rice cultivation criss crossed by innumerable waterways. The best way to visit this area is by boat along the Mekong River and then along smaller canals where village life can be experienced first hand. The are fruit orchards, colourful floating markets and many Khmer pagodas to visit. Ho Chi Minh City (or Saigon as it is commonly known) on the Saigon river just north of the Delta has been a trading port for centuries and is still today a bustling and vibrant city of over 5 million people. This provides us with colourful markets, ancient pagodas, mosques, cathedrals, museums and palaces to visit. The Reunification Hall (formerly the Presidential Palace) is worth visiting for a glimpse of Saigon before and after 1975. Or perhaps a cold beer on the roof-top restaurant at the Rex. A rickshaw ride is a great way to see the sights. East meets West in this city with an obvious influence from the US presence in the 60's and 70's. The surrounding south-eastern provinces include the French colonial seaside resort of Vung Tau and Tay Ninh near the Cambodian border, famous for its extraordinary Cao Dai Temple.
Most of the central region is a narrow strip squeezed between the sea and the mountains which form the Cambodian border. The high plateau of the Central Highlands were developed by the French for rubber, tea and coffee plantations and the towns became cool resorts from the heat of the cities. The main centres are Dalat, Pleiku, Ban Me Thuot and Kontum. This area is home to 7 regional ethnic groups. Dalat is the most popular of these resort towns and offers a cool and tranquil escape from busy Saigon. Along with the climate it is particularly picturesque with waterfalls, lakes, pine hills and elegant hotels and villas. All this and with excellent food, who can resist!
The Central Coast is not only the location of the best beaches it also has some beautiful old towns and was the centre of successive ancient civilisations which have left their monuments as evidence of their culture. Nha Trang boasts 6 kilometres of white-sand beach and range of facilities which make it a popular destination, especially as there is a direct train link with Saigon. There are many beachfront bars and restaurants and the seafood is delicious. The town itself has some interesting architecture but the real highlight is to visit some of the nearby islands by boat. The snorkelling is good and visiting the fishing villages is fun especially a ride in a coracle to get there. This region was once the Cham Kingdom (4th -14th Century) and may relics of that era remain in the form of Cham Towers. It is possible to visit the sites at My Son or see some of the art at the Cham Museum in Danang. Danang is a port town surrounded by several limestone mountains such as Marble Mountain and beaches such as China Beach. Both of these places were significant in the Vietnam War. A highlight of this area, is the small and well-preserved village of Hoi An. Allow a day to explore this delightful village on foot. With its low roofed, red tiled houses, narrow passages and covered bridges. A walk along the river will take you by many eating places and to the markets. There is a great small village feel to Hoi An. Cau Dai Beach is only 5 kilometres away and is a pleasant alternative to China Beach. Hoi An is also a good place to buy local silk and paintings.
Whether you travel to Hue by road, train or even fly, the journey is spectacular. The railway follows the coastline at times almost hanging over the sea, while the road makes a steep climb to the Hai Van Pass where the views are magnificent. Arriving at Hue you may notice the wide streets, the mixture of old and new architecture and the Perfume River. A closer look will reveal the remnants of the long history of Vietnam and reminders of the recent. It was the capital of Vietnam from 1802-1945 under the 13 emperors of the Ngyuen dynasty. The Citadel is not quite as imposing as it was before the war but there is still a lot to explore within its massive walls. A journey up the Perfume River will take you to the Imperial Tombs of Emperor Minh Mang and Tu Duc and others. The architecture and landscaping of these temples create a peaceful atmosphere which of course, was the intention. Other places of interest include Thien Mu Pagoda, Dong Ba market and the Royal Relics Museum or the Museum of Ancient Objects.
Hanoi is capital of the North. It was laid out on a grand scale with broad boulevards, parks and lakes which combine the charm of French and Vietnamese architecture. Although the administrative capital of the country it has a more relaxed pace than the busy business centre of Saigon. This will change and already big businesses are buying up land to "modernise" the city. Still it is not uncommon to see motorcycles with a pig strapped to the back and a traffic jam is usually of rickshaws (cyclos) and bicycles rather than privately owned cars. Hanoi can be explored on foot or by cyclo. You can visit Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum which is an austere event. Nearby are One Pillar Pagoda and The Temple of Literature which date back to the 11 century. As a contrast you might like to visit the Hoan Kiem Lake in the heart of the city and the old city where the narrow streets each sell local produce. Hanoi is a good place to buy silk, handicrafts and antiques. It is also the only place to see the traditional Water Puppeteers perform their unique skill. It makes an entertaining and colourful night out.
Ha Long Bay and the Northern Coast are famous for the limestone karst islands which have featured in many films. There are over 3000 islands rising from the clear emerald waters of the Bac Bo Gulf (Gulf of Tonkin). Some have sandy coves and others fantastic caves which you can walk through. Less well known is the Cat Ba Island National Park which has a wide range of flora and fauna. A boat ride through this region is something you will never forget.
The Northern Highlands are best known for the many different Hilltribes who live here. The area is relatively undeveloped but half a dozen passable roads and two railway lines fan out from Hanoi up the valleys to the borders of China and Laos giving access to the mountains. Treks through Hilltribe villages away from the roads can be arranged. You can base your stay in the pleasant highland town of Sapa and visit the villages of Hmong, Dao and other ethnic groups. Son La also offers a chance to visit various minority hilltribes such as the Black Thai, Hmong and Muong people. From here the road passes tea plantations and orchards to Dien Bien Phu, the site of the final battle between the French and the Viet Minh in 1953.
The following are suggested itineraries but can be modified to suit your interests and needs.
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)-Hanoi, 12 Days (Can be done in reverse order)
Day 1- Arrive Ho Chi Minh City, transfer to your hotel.
Day 2- Morning tour of the city in cluding the Presidential Palace, old Post Office, Saigon Cathedral, China Town with Thien Hau Temple and the bustling Binh Tay market. Afternoon tur of the Cu Chi Tunnels. Overnight Hotel.
Day 3- Transfer to the train station for the first leg of the Reunification Express. It is a long but intreresting journey to the beach town of Nha Trang.(Approx 9 hrs). Arrive Nha Trang and transfer to your hotel.
Day 4- Today a pleasant day is spent cruising the bay and visting the islands. You have the opportunity to meet the local fishermen, snorkel or simply relax. A fresh seafood lunch will be served on board. In the evening we board the overnight train to Danang (Approx13 hrs).
Day 5- We arrive in Danang around 0800 and transfer the short distance to Hoi An. Walking tour of Hoi An including the Japanese Bridge, Ancient House of Tan Ky and the market.The rest of the day you are free to explore the streets or perhaps do some souvenir shopping. Overnight Hoi An.
Day 6- The morning is free until it is time to catch the train from Danang to Hue (approx 5 hrs). You can make a side-trip to Marble Mountain and China Beach if you wish. Transfer to the hotel. Overnight Hue.
Day 7- In the morning we cruise up the Perfume River to visit the Thien Mu Pagoda and the superb Ming Mang Tomb. On the return journey (By car) we visit Tu Duc's Tomb. In the afternoon a visit to the Citadel and if time permits, the Dong Ba market. Overnight Hue.
Day 8- A leisurely morning before we embark on our final train journey to Hanoi. ( Approx 16 hrs). (It is possible to fly this sector.) Overnight train.
Day 9- Arrive in Hanoi in the early morning and transfer to the hotel. Mid morning we have a city tour including One Pillar Pagoda, Hoan Kienm Lake, the old quarter, Temple of Literature and the Fine Atrs Museum. In the evening there is a Water Puppet performance. Overnight Hanoi.
Day 10- A short train ride to Haiphong (approx 3 hrs) and transfer to the magical water and limestone peaks of Ha Long Bay. Overnight Ha Long Bay.
Day 11- What better way to finish the tour but a morning cruise of Ha Long Bay. Relax and take in the view as we cruise between the islands. Seafood lunch served on board. In the afternoon we return to Hanoi with a stop at the Bat Trang Pottery Village. Overnight Hanoi.
Day 12- Departure day, transfer to airport.
7 days, Saigon- Saigon
Day 1- Arrive Ton Son Nhat airport in Saigon. Transfer to your hotel.
Day 2- After breakfast drive from Saigon to Dalat. Stop at Bao Loc for lunch and visit Dam Bri Waterfall. Arrive in Dalat late in the afternoon. Overnight in Dalat.
Day 3- In the morning a sightseeing tour of Dalat including the Valley of Love, Linh Son Pagoda, the market and flower gardens. Drive to Nha Trang, visiting a Cham tower at Phan Rang. Overnight in Nha Trang.
Day 4- A full day boat trip including snorkelling, swimming and visiting the fishing villages. Overnight in Nha Trang.
Day 5- Return to Saigon stopping at Ca Na beach along the way.
Day 6- A tour of the Cu Chi tunnels followed in the afternoon by a city tour.
Day 7- Transfer to airport.
NORTHERN HIGHLIGHTS (8Days/7 Nights)
This adventure explores the streets of Hanoi, the waters of Halong Bay and the local cultures of the Muong, Thai H'mong people.
Day 1 Arrive in Hanoi and transfer to hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax.
Day 2 A full day city tour of Vietnam's capital city. Hanoi is a city of tree-lined boulevards, French colonial architecture, lakes and temples. The city tour includes such sights as Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum, the One Pillar Pagoda, the Fine Arts Museum, the Temple of Literature, the Lake of the Restored Sword and the bustling streets of the Old Quarter. There is a chance to witness a traditional form of entertainment from the north of Vietnam in an evening water puppet show. (B)
Day 3 After breakfast drive to Halong Bay stopping off en route to visit Bat Trang village, where the famous blue and white pottery is made. At Haiphong, Vietnam's third largest city, visit the Du Hang Pagoda and Hang Kenh Temple before continuing to Halong Bay. (B)
Day 4 A morning cruise on the spectacular bay, where 3,000 rocky limestone islands emerge from the emerald green waters. Many of the rocky islands contain caves ' h beautiful formations of stalactites and stalagmites. Halong Bay, a UNESCO Heritage Site , is said to be one of the natural wonders of the world. After a seafood lunch head back to Hanoi arriving late afternoon. (B,L)
Day 5 A scenic morning drive west from Hanoi through Hoa Binh Province leads to the idyllic Mai Chau Valley, This area seems relatively untouched by the 20th century and daily life in the rice fields and villages continues much as it has for generations. Arrive at Xalinh for lunch and then continue to Hangkia for dinner and overnight in a H'mong village. (B,L,D)
Day 6 After breakfast trek to Tauna, taking lunch en route. Continue to Cun Pheo and spend the evening and overnight with a Muong or, perhaps, a Thai family. Facilities in the traditional longhouse are basic but the experience makes up for any lack of creature comforts. (B,L,D)
Day 7 Leaving after breakfast trek to Samkhoe and after lunch return by road to Hanoi (B,L)
Day 8 Departure day. Transfer to Noi Bai Airport for departure.
Prices from £640 based on twin share.
* You may like to do an extended trek in the Sa Pa region, Kayak in Halong Bay or perhaps fly to Vientiane for a tour of Laos.
HALONG BAY - KAYAK THE EMERALD DRAGON (4 Days/3 Nights)
Day 1 Leave Hanoi early in the morning to drive to Halong, stopping en route to watch stone masons and woodcarvers at work in Sao Do. Arrive at Halong Bay around noon and board a traditional red-sailed junk for a seafood lunch before sailing to Van Gio Island. Receive instruction on kayaking techniques and safety procedures on the beach. Dinner on the beach or on board the junk. Camp overnight on the beach. (L,D)
Day 2 Kayaking on the spectacular bay where 3,000 rocky limestone islands emerge from the emerald green waters. Head for Three Peach Island and explore the myriad caves and islands in the area. Continue to Ba Men Temple for a fresh seafood barbeque lunch followed by a visit to Three Cave Lagoon. In the evening fishermen gather at the Ba Men Temple with offerings for the Whale God, visitors are welcome to join in. (B,L,D)
Day 3 After breakfast kayak to Trinh Nu or Virgin Cave which offers some interesting kayaking among the cragged limestone islands. Lunch at Trinh Nu Cave before continuing to Kim Qui and Dau Go Caves. Here there is an excellent spot for swimming and sunbathing. Dinner and overnight on board the junk. (B,L,D)
Day 4 A final morning of kayaking before a farewell lunch on the junk and return to Hanoi by road. (B,L)
Price £300 based on twin share
9 Days /5 day trek. Other itineraries available from 2-5 days trekking.
Day 1 Meet in Hanoi or at Hanoi airport. Transfer to Bai Bang. Overnight Bai Bang
Day 2 Drive from Bai Bang to Sapa visiting Hung King Temple in Vinh Phu. Overnight at Sapa guesthouse.
Day 3 Trekking to Hai Van Hmong village. Overnight in Hai Van village house.
Day 4 Trekking to Nam Sai Red Hmong village. Overnight at Nam Sai.
Day 5 Trekking to Sape minority people village then Ban Ho Village. Overnight Ban Ho.
Day 6 Trekking to Su Pen minority people village. Overnight Su Pan.
Day 7 Trekking back to Sapa. Overnight Sapa guesthouse.
Day 8 Visit Sapa Market and surrounding area. Overnight Sapa.
Day 9 Drive to Lao Cai from Sapa. By train from Lao Cai to Hanoi. Overnight Hanoi.
Suggested extension to Ha Long Bay to make a two week tour.
INDOCHINA EXPLORER- 15 days including the highlights of Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia
VIETNAM
Day 1- Arrive Ho Chi Minh City, transfer to your hotel. Half day city tour including the Presidential Palace, old Post Office, Saigon Cathedral, China Town with Thien Hau Temple and the bustling Binh Tay market. Overnight Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 2- Visit Tay Ninh, home to the Cao Dai sect where we can observe afternoon prayer. After lunch, drive 1.5 hours to the Cu Chi Tunnels where the guerillas (and their families) lived and fought for many years in the Vietnam War. Overnight Ho Chi Minh City. (B)
Day 3- Transfer to the airport for the 1 hour flight to Danang. Transfer the short distance to the chaming fishing village of Hoi An. Walking tour of Hoi An including the Japanese Bridge, Ancient House of Tan Ky and the market. The rest of the day you are free to explore the streets or perhaps do some souvenir shopping. Overnight Hoi An. (B)
Day 4- After an early lunch we leave Hoi An to visit Marble Mountain and China Beach before continuing to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. The journey crosses the Hai Van Pass with its impressive views. Transfer to the hotel. Overnight Hue. (B)
Day 5- A full day tour along the Perfume River to visit former emperors mausloeum; Tu Duc's Tomb and the superb Ming Mang Tomb. These are tranquil and beautiful places. On the return journey we visit Thien Mu Pagoda. Overnight Hue. (B)
Day 6- Morning flight to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. After transferring to the hotel. We begin a half day city tour including the Hoan Kienm Lake, the old quarter, Temple of Literature and the Fine Arts Museum. In the evening there is a Water Puppet performance. Overnight Hanoi. (B)
Day 7- A morning visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausloeum and the One Pillar Pagoda. Rest of the day free to explore this fascinating city. Overnight Hanoi. (B)
Day 8- Transfer to the airport for your flight to Vientiane ( approx 1 hr, 40 mins). Arrive in Vientiane airport, transfer to hotel. Half day sightseeing tour including Wat Sisaket, Wat Prakeo Wat Simuang, That Luang Monument. Overnight Vientiane. (B)
Day 9- In the morning we take a short flight to Luang Prabang. After checking in to the hotel drive 30 km through the countryside to reach the Khuang Si Falls. The water cascades over the limestone formations into a series of turquoise pools. After a picnic lunch return to Vientiane to visit the former Kings Palace, now a National Museum followed by a tour of the significant monasteries Wat Xieng Thong,Wat Sen and Wat Visun finishing with a view of the sunset from Phousi Hill. Overnight Luang Prabang. (B,L)
Day 10- A full day cruise up the Mekong to Pak Ou Caves where thousands of Buddha statues are scattered over the limestone cliffs. Also a visit local villages where traditional crafts include weaving and rice-wine making. Overnight Luang Prabang. (B,L)
CAMBODIA
Day 11- Transfer to the airport for the flight to Phnom Penh, capital of Cambodia. After checking in, take a half day tour including the National Museum, Silver Pagoda and Wat Phnom and the central market.
Day 12- Transfer to the airport for the short flight to Siem Reap. After checking begin exploring the magnificent temple ruins. Visit Angkor Wat, the South Gate of Angkor Thom and the famous Bayon with its faces. Watch the sunset from Phnom Bakheng. (B)
Day 13- Visit the impressive Ta Prohm Temple embraced by the roots of enormous fig trees. Other temples include Ta Keo, Chau Say, Tevoda, Thammanon, Bantey Kdei and Srah Srang. Overnight Siem Reap. (B)
Day 14- Morning cvisit to Preah Ko, Bakong and Lolei, the three 9th century Hindu temples of the Rolous group. Afternoon boat cruise to Tonle Sap, the Great Lake of Cambodia, that is over 100 km long. Overnight Siem Reap. (B)
Day 15- Transfer to the airport for your flight to Phnom Penh or direct to Bangkok. (B)
OTHER ITINERARIES
Other tours can be arranged including cycling and diving. Ask for details.
SOUTHEAST ASIA & INDOCHINA
INDIA & THE HIMALAYAS
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SOUTH AMERICA
THE ARCTIC
AFRICA
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AUSTRALASIA
UK/EUROPE
WORLDWIDE
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This is a brief description of the regions we cover, go to the MAIN INDEX for links to Dossiers on each destination.
South East Asia
Visit ancient temples and traditional villages, relax in exclusive hideaways, witness colourful festivals, learn about textiles, local cooking or music and dance, cruise jungle rivers, meet orangutans or trek the jungles and volcanoes .... We are acknowledged experts on this region; this is what the Indonesia, Malaysia & Singapore Handbook says about us: "Arc Journeys have excellent cultural and natural tours run by people who understand and care for the country, its people and environment."
Australasia
Meet the koalas & 'roos, visit the wineries, stroll deserted beaches, dive The Reef, climb The Rock, experience the open spaces and untouched wilderness. Escape the crowds. Accommodated self-drive, treks, 4WD tours, gourmet cycle tours...indulge in the Aussie way.
India and The Himalayas
Walk through small villages among 8000m peaks, receive blessings from a Buddhist Lama, stay in magnificent palaces, search for rhino and tiger. Himalayan treks, rail journeys, camel & horse safaris, palace hotels, houseboats or homestays...
Africa
Meet the curious lemurs, look out for the Big 5, climb Kilimanjaro, visit villages where time has stood still. Luxury lodges or camping expeditions, Self-drive or escorted 4WD safaris, horseback safaris, rail journeys, treks, fly- in tours ......
South America
Discover the mysteries of the Incas, explore colonial towns and Indian markets, hear the music and festivals, trek the Andes, take great train journeys, cruise the Amazon and the Galapagos, meet blue footed boobies and giant turtles. Small group tours and tailormade itineraries.
The Arctic
Dog sledding, polar bears, birds & whalewatching, cruise Alaska, Greenland or rivers, touch an iceberg, see the Northern Lights or midnight sun, experience the wilderness of the Arctic. Small group tours and tailormade itineraries.
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