10-Nights Active Vietnam: Sapa to the Sea from $2,634

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi

Transfer: Hanoi Airportto Hanoi - The Old Quarter

Hotel: Silk Path Hotel Hanoi (4 Star Rating)

The Silk Path Hotel is located in the heart of the charming old quarter of Hanoi close to countless tourist attractions, government and diplomatic institutions as well as the business district of the city. The Silk Path Hotel, with its 106 well-appointed exclusively designed rooms and suites, makes the hotel the preferred choice of both the leisure and business traveller.

Set off today with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a remarkable construction where Vietnamese people express their profound love and gratitude to the great leader (closed Monday & Friday weekly and all afternoons). Then stroll around the serene grounds while learning about Ho Chi Minh's life and legacy. There is an option to visit the nearby iconic One Pillar Pagoda, built-in 1049. Continue to the Temple of Literature, a serene retreat from the busy streets outside. It is known as the first national university in Vietnam and the symbol of Vietnamese architectural values. Cap off the excursion strolling through the labyrinthine alleyways of the Old Quarters. This oldest continuously developed area of Hanoi was once an important centre of commerce where goods were sold on the street name of a particular guild. Stop at a roadside coffee shop, mingle with the locals and enjoy the daily life passing by.

Hotel: Tam Coc Garden Resort (4 Star Rating)

Tam Coc Garden Resort is a boutique retreat nestled among Ninh Binh's rice paddies and limestone peaks, offering just 16 rooms and villas that blend traditional Vietnamese architecture with modern comforts. Guests can unwind by the serene pool, indulge in relaxing spa treatments, or explore the scenic countryside on complimentary bicycles. Every detail at Tam Coc Garden Resort is designed to immerse you in the natural charm and cultural richness of Ninh Binh.

This morning, embark on a 2-hour drive to Ninh Binh, passing through scenic rural villages and farmlands along the way. Upon arrival, explore the remnants of Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam during the 10th and 11th centuries. This historic site bore witness to key events, including the unification of Vietnam after the rebellion of 12 warlords, the conflict with China's Southern Han Dynasty, and the early formation of Hanoi. Climb approximately 200 steps to visit the temple of Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang, where you'll be rewarded with panoramic views and a chance to delve into its rich history. Enjoy lunch at a charming local restaurant, savoring Ninh Binh's specialties.

In the afternoon, take a short 30-minute drive to Tam Coc for a serene 2-hour rowing boat journey along the Boi River. Marvel at the picturesque Tam Coc grottos, seasonal rice fields, and the daily life of farmers in the Red River Delta. The towering limestone karsts rising dramatically from the rice paddies have earned this area the nickname "Halong Bay on Land." After returning to the pier, enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at your leisure.

Meal(s): Lunch

Hanoi is a paradise for lovers of street food and the city's best dishes can be found on its bustling sidewalks, where the air is filled with the aroma of lemongrass, chili, cilantro, and other fresh herbs. Your guide will offer you insights into the intricacies and traditions of Vietnamese food culture, including details about the ingredients and historical backgrounds of popular northern dishes. Start strolling through the labyrinthine streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter and indulge your taste buds along the way. Let's sit down with young locals and try the popular Nom Kho Bo, a salad made with green papaya and beef jerky. The key to this dish is the crunchy texture of the papaya and the flavor imparted by lime and fish sauce. Next, follow the scent of fragrant food to a rustic venue where Banh Cuon, a steamed rice roll, is served. You will be astonished as the skilled chef demonstrates how this delicious dish is cooked. Then visit a family-run eatery that serves Bun Cha, a one-dish meal of noodles with flame-grilled pork cooked over hot coals for extra flavor. After satisfying your appetite, it's time for dessert. Venture down a small alley in search of seasonal sweet treats. Before heading back to your hotel, optional mingle at a hidden café with stunning views of the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake.

Hotel: Silk Path Boutique Hanoi (4 Star Rating)

Silk Path Boutique Hanoi is located in the Old City by Hoan Kiem Lake, just a few minutes' walk from top Hanoi attractions, local handicraft shops and street food. Rooms offer a quirky fusion of traditional French and contemporary Asian design, and are soundproofed for optimum comfort. On-site amenities include a rooftop bar, patisserie and restaurant.

This morning, visit Van Long, Vietnam's largest wetland, the perfect spot for a relaxing biking adventure to discover its abundant flora, diverse wildlife, and vibrant birdlife. The area is home to 39 species of birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish, including some globally endangered species such as the white-breeched langur, which can occasionally be spotted in the early morning or late afternoon. After the excursion, return to your hotel for some rest before transferring back to Hanoi.

Meal(s): Lunch

This morning, transfer from your Hanoi hotel to Halong Bay. Upon arrival at Tuan Chau Island, transfer to the Paradise Elegance. You will be greeted by the Paradise crew who will aim to provide you with the highest standards of service throughout the journey. Halong Bay is blessed with numerous grottoes, hidden pools and mystical islands and this afternoon, there will be the opportunity to disembark the boat and explore the region further. Off-boat excursions are usually by ship's tender although often there is the opportunity to discover the beautiful landscapes of the bay by bamboo rowing boat. Today's cruising program includes a visit to Titov Island and Luon cave. At sunset, Paradise Elegance will anchor overnight. It is the perfect time to enjoy Happy Hour and a cooking class demonstration while being serenaded by a live music performance at L'Odyssee Sundeck or Piano Lounge before sitting down to delicious dinner.

Hotel: Paradise Elegance (5 Star Rating)

A sleek, modern vessel that fuses contemporary styling with Vietnamese design concepts, the Paradise Elegance is a meticulously designed steel boat that has reimagined luxury cruising on Halong Bay. Boasting a piano bar, day spa and wellness centre, butler service and the full range of dining options, the Elegance is a work of art, the experience exquisite, the journey flawless.

Meal(s): Dinner, Lunch

Rise early and start the day with a Tai Chi session on the Sundeck or simply relax on board and take in the magnificent surroundings. After breakfast board smaller tender boats and set off to discover more remote areas of the bay such as Ho Dong Tien cave, Trong cave, Trinh Nu cave, Hang Dau islet, Hand Than islet and other spots. Visit Tien Ong cave and a fishing village where generations have and continue to make their livelihoods from the sea. Return to your vessel later this afternoon and enjoy some time to relax before experiencing another cooking demonstration and a scrumptious dinner.

Hotel: Paradise Elegance (5 Star Rating)

A sleek, modern vessel that fuses contemporary styling with Vietnamese design concepts, the Paradise Elegance is a meticulously designed steel boat that has reimagined luxury cruising on Halong Bay. Boasting a piano bar, day spa and wellness centre, butler service and the full range of dining options, the Elegance is a work of art, the experience exquisite, the journey flawless.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Rise early and start the day with a Tai Chi session at L'Odyssee Sundeck before enjoying a light continental breakfast at Le Marin Restaurant. This morning you will visit Sung Sot cave, the most beautiful and largest cave in Halong Bay. Back on the ship, enjoy a full breakfast while cruising past Thien Cung and Dau Go Cave and the Fighting Cock Islet. Paradise Elegance returns to Tuan Chau Marina and you will get transferred to your Hanoi Hotel.

Meal(s): Breakfast

This evening, transfer to Hanoi railway station for the overnight train to Lao Cai. Train departure time is 10.00 PM.

Hotel: Fanxipan Express Train (3 Star Rating)

Fanxipan Express Train accommodates 56 berths with 2 berths and 4 berths deluxe cabins, accompanied by the hospitality of Fanxipan Express train staff. The enchanting luxury and comfortable facilities of the wood-paneled cabins will make your stay in these carriages memorable. Passengers can relax and admire the beautiful scenery gliding past the spacious window. Each carriage has hot and cold water and a minibar offering Vietnamese and Western delights, snacks and drinks.

Sapa was established as a hill station by the French in 1922. This mountain town is a popular trekking destination known for its cool climate, stunning landscapes, and numerous ethnic minority groups who still wear traditional costumes. Upon arrival in the early morning, transfer an hour to Sapa town and then continue the drive towards the Muong Hoa Valley, the largest area of rice terraces in this region. Walk to Sapa Ancient Rock Field and beyond through beautiful terrain with outstanding views across terraced rice fields. Explore the field strewn with ancient volcanic boulders covered in petroglyphs and carvings and learn something of a mystery. Uncovered by a French researcher in 1925, there are 159 carved rocks across an area of eight square kilometers that have puzzled researchers and archaeologists ever since. After exploring the rock field, follow a dirt trail downhill across Rattan Bridge, a suspension bridge named after the material from which it was constructed, and see waterfall before continuing on foot to the village of Giang Ta Chai, home to the Red Dao. This section of the trek offers stunning views of Muong Hoa Valley and provides the opportunity to understand the lives of tribal people in this region. The trek continues toward Su Pan Village, home of the Black Hmong, before joining your transfer back to Sapa. The afternoon is at leisure.

Hotel: BB Sapa Resort & Spa (4 Star Rating)

BB Sapa Resort & Spa is a charming retreat nestled in the heart of Sapa, Vietnam, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The resort features elegantly designed rooms with modern amenities and traditional touches, ensuring comfort and style. Guests can enjoy a range of facilities, including a serene spa, a well-equipped fitness center, and a restaurant serving local and international cuisine, all within a peaceful and picturesque setting near Sapa's vibrant town center.

Drive north of Sapa, and admire the majestic Fansipan Mountain and the beautiful valley en route. It is also a famous area for farming vegetables and flowers in Sapa. Capture the picturesque landscape when getting closer to Ban Khoang village. Stop for an easy walk to visit the village of Red Dao ethnic in Ban Khoang village. The Red Dao women are very skilled in making their embroidery. The trip will continue with a short drive to Ta Giang Phinh village. There are some modern houses of Kinh ethnic nearby, a large beautiful valley with a pretty stream running through, and a home of Black H'mong ethic. Take the opportunity to explore the village by walking and enjoy the valley view. The H'mong ethnic is famous for making their clothes from hemp and dying with indigo plants. Your picnic lunch is served on the way on a nice grassy spot. End your walking tour and transfer back to Sapa town.

Hotel: BB Sapa Resort & Spa (4 Star Rating)

BB Sapa Resort & Spa is a charming retreat nestled in the heart of Sapa, Vietnam, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The resort features elegantly designed rooms with modern amenities and traditional touches, ensuring comfort and style. Guests can enjoy a range of facilities, including a serene spa, a well-equipped fitness center, and a restaurant serving local and international cuisine, all within a peaceful and picturesque setting near Sapa's vibrant town center.

Meal(s): Lunch, Breakfast

Hotel: O'Gallery Premier Hotel and Spa (4 Star Rating)

O'Gallery Premier Hotel and Spa offers 55 comfortable and modern guest rooms in the heart of Hanoi's Old Quarter. Just a 5-minute walk to Hoan Kiem Lake, the water puppet theatre, St Joseph's Cathedral and the Night Market, the hotel is in an ideal location for exploring Hanoi on foot. Amenities include an in-house spa, cafe and restaurant.

Transfer from your hotel to the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake area, which transforms early evening into a haven for exercise, romantic walks and people watching, join the locals for a stroll to a nearby rooftop bar, a perfect Old Quarter vantage point to enjoy the sunset and watch the lights of Hanoi come alive with a drink or cocktail & nibbles. Your guide can then point out the 360-degree overview of Hanoi and the surrounding areas before we head back down onto the streets.

The street vibe changes at night and a little electric buzz fills the air as locals come out to eat and vendors try to make their last sales of the day. It can be overwhelming but with your guide to assist in haggling and with local info, this becomes a fun, enchanting environment. The "blue stool" experience is next as you sample the translated local dishes, engage in banter with your stool neighbors and marvel at the passing trade. You will be fascinated by local life and encouraged to ask and discuss any burning questions about real-life in, and the history of, this fascinating country. Followed by a dinner with authentic Vietnamese cuisine in an elegantly cozy ambiance.

Transfer back to your hotel.

After breakfast, embark on a 5.5-hour drive back to Hanoi. Upon arrival in Hanoi, transfer to your hotel for check-in.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Transfer: Hanoi - The Old Quarter to Hanoi Airport