Northern Vietnam Classic

Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, a warm welcome awaits as our guide greets and assists with the transfer to the hotel. The journey from the airport to the city center takes approximately forty minutes. Hanoi, known as the "River-bound City," has been the capital of Vietnam since 1010, boasting over a thousand years of history. The city's charm is evident in its well-preserved cultural relics, ancient streets lined with antique houses, elegant French colonial buildings, tree-lined boulevards, and picturesque lakes. This harmonious blend of past and present makes Hanoi one of Asia’s most enchanting capitals. As the day draws to a close, a visit to Hoan Kiem Lake offers an opportunity to witness one of Hanoi’s most iconic sites. The lake, a symbol of the city, is deeply intertwined with Vietnamese folklore. It is named "Returned Sword Lake" in honor of the legend in which a holy turtle returned a sacred sword to an ancient king after a victorious battle. The lake is also home to a rare species of giant turtle, adding to its mystique. A leisurely stroll around the lake provides a chance to appreciate its serene beauty, and the surrounding area is perfect for exploring Hanoi’s bustling Old Quarter. This historic district, with its thirty-six ancient streets, offers an authentic glimpse into the city's vibrant culture and commerce. Each street was once dedicated to a specific craft, and many still bear the names of the trades that flourished there centuries ago. The evening is free for independent exploration, allowing visitors to shop for local souvenirs, sample street food, or simply soak in the energetic atmosphere of Hanoi’s oldest neighborhood. Meals: No meal Accommodation: A hotel used in Hanoi

The morning begins with an immersive exploration of Hanoi’s rich history and heritage. The first stop is the Ho Chi Minh Complex, a site that pays tribute to the nation’s revered leader. Here, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum houses the preserved body of Vietnam’s founding father, though it remains closed on Mondays, Fridays, and during October and November for annual maintenance. Nearby, the Presidential Palace, originally the French Governor’s Office, is an architectural masterpiece reflecting Hanoi’s colonial past. Within the complex, visitors will also find Ho Chi Minh’s house on stilts, a simple yet significant wooden dwelling where he lived and worked, embodying his philosophy of humility and dedication. The tour continues to the One Pillar Pagoda, an 11th-century structure built in dedication to Avalokiteshvara, the Buddha of Compassion. This unique temple, resembling a lotus blossom emerging from a pond, stands as a symbol of purity and enlightenment. Next on the itinerary is the Temple of Literature, a historical and cultural landmark established in 1070 by the Ly Dynasty. As Vietnam’s first university, it was dedicated to Confucius and the cultivation of scholarly excellence. The temple’s well-preserved pavilions, courtyards, and altars pay homage to great Vietnamese scholars and sages. Walking through the serene complex provides a glimpse into Vietnam’s academic and philosophical heritage. In the afternoon, the journey continues to Ha Long Bay, a mesmerizing UNESCO World Heritage Site located approximately 160 kilometers from Hanoi. The drive, spanning around three and a half hours, traverses the Vietnamese countryside, offering a glimpse into rural life where nearly 80% of the population engages in farming. A brief rest stop en route provides a chance to refresh before arriving in Ha Long City. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel is followed by an evening at leisure, allowing time to unwind and absorb the tranquil ambiance of this coastal destination. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: A hotel used in Ha Long

For groups of 1-9 guests, the morning begins with breakfast at the hotel between six and seven AM before heading to the dock for an unforgettable cruise through the legendary Ha Long Bay. The bay, whose name means "Descending Dragon," is steeped in mythology. According to legend, a celestial dragon descended from the sky and formed the thousands of limestone karsts that rise dramatically from the emerald waters. As one of the world’s natural wonders, Ha Long Bay boasts an otherworldly landscape that has been sculpted over 500 million years. The cruise takes passengers to Dau Go Island, home to the mesmerizing Thien Cung Cave, or "Heaven Palace Cave." This cavern features striking stalactites and stalagmites illuminated by colorful lights, creating an ethereal underground world. Nearby, Dau Go Cave, known as the "Wooden Stakes Cave," carries historical significance as a strategic stronghold where wooden stakes were stored in the 13th century to defeat Mongolian invaders in the legendary battle of Bach Dang. After the exploration, the boat returns to the dock, and a delightful lunch at a local restaurant offers a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine. In the afternoon, the journey back to Hanoi commences, followed by an opportunity for shopping and leisure in the Old Quarter. For groups of ten or more, the experience is elevated with a private boat and a seafood lunch served onboard. The day starts similarly, with an early breakfast before transferring to the dock. The private cruise provides an intimate exploration of Ha Long Bay’s stunning karst formations, serene waters, and hidden caves. The visit to Dau Go Island includes Thien Cung and Dau Go Caves, both remarkable for their geological formations and historical ties to Vietnam’s resistance against Mongolian forces. As the cruise continues, a sumptuous lunch featuring fresh seafood is served on board, enhancing the overall experience with breathtaking views of the bay. The return journey to Hanoi follows in the afternoon, and the remainder of the day is free for personal exploration, shopping, or relaxation in the bustling yet charming Old Quarter. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (Vietnamese) Accommodation: A hotel used in Hanoi

The final day in Hanoi allows for a leisurely morning before departure. Depending on flight schedules, guests may opt for a relaxed breakfast at the hotel, a last stroll around the city, or some final souvenir shopping. The transfer to Noi Bai International Airport is arranged accordingly, ensuring a smooth journey to the departure terminal. With memories of Hanoi’s historic sites, Ha Long Bay’s breathtaking landscapes, and the warm hospitality of Vietnam, the journey concludes on a high note, leaving travellers with lasting impressions of this enchanting country. Meals: Breakfast