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'Essence' Itineraries are a new range of shorter itineraries which encapsulate the spirit of each country we offer, within an approximate 8 day period.

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Home > Destinations > Vietnam, Cambodia & Laos > Uncovering Rural Vietnam

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UNCOVERING RURAL VIETNAM

Day 1 Hanoi to Mai Chau
This morning leave your hotel and drive through the countryside to Mai Chau and the Mai Chau Lodge where you will stay for the next two nights. After lunch drive to Xam Khoe village the beginning point of a fascinating walk to the nearby village of Buoc which is known for its Thai minority. Later return to Mai Chau stopping en-route at the magnificent Van Mai Valley. (L/D)

Day 2 Mai Chau
After breakfast, start the day with a cycling tour through the rice paddies, local trails and small villages that make up the Mai Chau valley. This is an excellent opportunity not only to meet and spend time with the friendly local people but also to experience their traditional way of life. On your return to Mai Chau you will also have the chance to visit the village at Vang. (B/L/D)

Day 3 Mai Chau to Ninh Binh
This morning leave Mai Chau and drive on to Ninh Binh. In the afternoon take a sampan ride to experience the beautiful scenery which is known locally as the ‘Ha Long Bay on Land’. Later return to Ninh Binh and the Emeralda Resort where you will stay for the next two nights. (B/L)

Day 4 Ninh Binh
Today explore the paddy fields, pagodas, small villages and markets that comprise of this area. Experience northern Vietnamese village life with an opportunity to have lunch in one of the villages and a chance to spend time with local farm workers as they tend their crops. (B/L)

Day 5 Ninh Binh to Ha Long Bay
After an early breakfast, leave your hotel and drive to Ha Long Bay a beautiful location characterised by spectacular limestone pinnacles that jut from the sea. On your arrival join the Ginger Junk Boat for your overnight stay. A wooden vessel, the Ginger Junk Boat is a classic yacht luxuriously designed with every modern comfort. The afternoon will be spent onboard cruising Ha Long Bay. (B/D)

Day 6 Ha Long Bay to Hanoi
Spend the morning cruising Ha Long Bay, stopping at colourful grottoes and secluded beaches. In the afternoon sail through the picturesque Red River Delta to the small village of Hai Duong for the unique spectacle of an outdoor water puppet show before returning to Hanoi in the afternoon. (B)

STAYING ON

Discover neighbouring Laos with a direct flight from Hanoi to Luang Prabang – a picturesque riverside town and religious centre of temples, monuments and palaces.

Extend your tour by taking the overnight train to Sapa before working your way south through Lai Chau, Dien Bien Phu and Son La to Mai Chau. For more information visit our other tour ‘In Search of the Muong’ by clicking here.

Paradise is close at hand with the Vietnamese town of Phan Thiet and its white sandy beaches only a short journey from Ho Chi Minh City. Nha Trang is also easily reached with the beautiful Ana Mandara Resort & Spa or the secluded Evason Hideaway two of the finest options available.

Planning your journey: We can design a unique journey to suit you as our tours are totally tailor made. By combining your own ideas with our knowledge and experience we can help you to create your own journey tailored exactly to your requirements Once you have formulated your ideas, or if you require some general or specific advice, please call us on 01892 515966 or simply send your ideas to pettitts@btconnect.com. On receipt of your enquiry we will provide you with a full written quotation together with our suggestions and recommendations.

A Guide to Price – RURAL NORTH VIETNAM

Prices vary according to selected airlines, hotels and season, however, an indication to the current cost of this itinerary is from £775. All prices are per person and are based on a minimum of TWO persons travelling together and sharing a twin bedded room with meals as indicated. If you wish to travel alone we will be pleased to assist you with your arrangements and can provide a proposal on request.

Note: Meal Basis (N) = No Meal; (B) = Breakfast; (L) = Lunch; (D) = Dinner

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