Luxury Indochina Journey

FLY TO HANOI

Fly from Auckland to Singapore with Singapore Airlines. (Other options are available).

Fly from Singapore to Hanoi with Singapore Airlines.

On arrival in Hanoi you will be met and transferred to your hotel by private car.

HANOI - MORNING TOUR BY VINTAGE JEEP - EVENING WALKING TOUR

This morning you will be collected from your hotel at 08:30 am. Depart from your hotel by vintage jeep.

Start the Hanoi adventure by cruising local areas to witness local Hanoian’s way of life, in the maze of backstreets. Pass by local homes, schools, streetside markets and tiny alleyways where locals live, work and play.

Cruise by historic landmarks and city sights such as the Old Quarter, Opera House, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Huu Tiep lake, the monument of John MC Cain by Truc Bach Lake and An Duong Market.

Continue to the Red River and onto an ‘island’ to explore a hidden gem, where you’ll see people farming and living, under the veil of the city. Rich due to the fertile soil, this island floods each year during the rainy season allowing rich silt to replenish the soil. 

The final stop is Long Bien Bridge, a magnificent structure built over a hundred of years ago which spans the Red River. Completed in 1902 by, once the longest bridge in Asia made famous once again, this time in the 1970’s during the ‘American war’ as countless bombing raids attempted to disrupt the bridge as a vital supply line.   

Along the way, take photos or selfies at any opportunity. The open door / top jeep will allow for many opportunities to take photos. 

Wrap up the day with specialties of Hanoi: Egg coffee or a quintessential Hanoi dish; Bun Cha (pork noodles). Discuss with your guide in advance, the best option for your day.

You will be collected from your hotel this evening at 6 pm.

As the sun is setting, head out for a Hanoi street food walking tour through the Old Quarter. Join a local guide to sample quintessential Hanoi flavors.

The streets of Hanoi are a feast for the senses. Visually appealing, modern style meets history and tradition interlooped with sensational local cuisine. Be introduced to what the locals love; snacks of all types, bowls of noodles, deserts and sweet treats, served streetside or in ‘shophouses’.

Wrap up the evening with a beer at a bia hoi¸ small shops selling draft beer. Sip a cold beer while watching the vibrant night time street scenes, then return to the hotel for a good night’s sleep.

HALONG BAY CRUISE

You will be collected from your hotel after breakfast and transferred to Lan Ha Bay.

Embark on a unique journey, meeting at Heritage Line’s lounge at Tuan Chau Marina.

A short speedboat transfer takes you to your luxurious floating home, the starting point for exploring the wonders of Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island.

Lunch is served in the almost 360 degree, light-flooded, elegant dining room during which the Heritage Ginger sails deeper into the bay. Unwind on the terrace deck or private balcony, soaking in the seascape.

Mooring close to Cat Ba Island, step on land heading to Viet Hai Village, nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by jungle-cladded mountains.

Cycling through this valley offers wonderful insights into the isolated life of the local inhabitants. The community, surrounded by thick forests and mountains, and only accessible by sea, is self-sufficient, cultivating vegetables, fruits, and fishing on the bay.

Returning to the ship, sail to the overnight anchorage spot in Lan Ha Bay. The ship's chef invites you to a hands-on cooking class in the dining room, showcasing local ingredients and the preparation of classic Vietnamese dishes.

Extend the evening by unwinding at the bar with a digestif, or joining the team for some funny squid fishing before retiring to your suite.

LAN HA BAY - HUE

Wake up early for a Tai Chi session on the terrace deck.

Traditional Vietnamese coffee, tea and breakfast pastries await in the dining room for a first bite. The ship sails to a place called “Frog Lake”, a secluded area which is perfect for an energetic morning excursion by kayak.

Explore this captivating marine landscape with cliffs stretching vertically out of the water and you feel a sense of freedom while paddling through a labyrinth of jade-green water, rocks and vivid tree-topped islets.

Back on board, enjoy a hearty breakfast or brunch while cruising back to the disembarkation spot, from where you will transfer back to the pier by speedboat. Savour the last moments of this unique journey while relaxing on the terrace deck.

Back on shore you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Hue.

Fly from Hanoi to Hue with Vietnam Airlines.

On arrival in Hue you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

HUE - DAY EXCURSION

Today’s tour will begin at 8:30. Kick off the Hue city day tour at the UNESCO-Heritage Imperial Citadel.

Roam the expansive grounds, hearing stories of the majestic buildings and the intriguing former emperors. Take a look at areas damaged by ancient and modern conflicts and learn of Hue’s role in Vietnam’s military history.

Continue by cyclo to discover the tranquil gardens and traditional buildings of the region, before arriving at Tran Dinh Son private museum with a collection of everyday items that past Kings have used. Learn how royal descendants are keeping the family’s traditions alive today.

The next stop is Thien Mu Pagoda, one of Hue’s iconic landmarks. Discover the many unique spiritual and architectural elements of Thien Mu while touring the compound with the guide. Listen to fascinating stories about the pagoda’s 400-year history and enjoy views over the nearby Perfume River before heading to a local restaurant for lunch.

This afternoon, leave the city centre and travel through Hue’s beautiful countryside. Visit the tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, a Nguyen Dynasty ruler well known for his opposition to any French involvement in Vietnam.

Explore his remarkable tomb, admiring the imposing architecture and gorgeous forest setting while learning more about this historic leader. Continue to Khai Dinh’s tomb for a tour of this equally remarkable complex. Admire the blend of traditional Vietnamese design with European touches, which makes it unique from the other tombs in Hue.

Continue the trip with a visit to An Dinh Palace, the private residence of Khai Dinh, Vietnam’s last emperor who ruled until 1955. It was built in 1917 with French architectural styles. After the war, the building was seriously damaged and it was recently restored as part of a German Government aid project. Get a chance to get an overview of life of a Royal family through the bedroom, entertainment rooms and library.

Before heading back to the hotel, take time to browse the stalls at Dong Ba Market. The market is teeming with colour and a great place to catch a glimpse of everyday life in modern Hue.

TRAVEL TO HOI AN

Today you will be collected from your hotel in Hue and transferred to your hotel in Hoi An, with the rest of the day at leisure.

Travel over the scenic Hai Van Pass on your way to your hotel.

HOI AN - HALF  DAY TOUR

Be enchanted by the historic wonders and sleepy charm of UNESCO-heritage Hoi An.

Spend a half-day with a local guide, exploring the ancient town. Explore former merchants’ homes, colourful communal halls, narrow lanes lined with traditional houses and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. Leave the crowded venue behind and discover some untouched stories in the beautiful old town.

Meander down the small alley to discover an ancient house where the art of healing through martial art is passed down through generations. This healing method is the master’s invention, combined between Qigong, Tai Chi, and traditional Vietnamese martial art. Have a chance to learn some basic steps under the guidance of the master. 

Last but not least, visit a cosy home to taste a typical dessert of locals and relax before heading back to the hotel.

HOI AN

Enjoy the day at leisure.

FLY TO SAIGON - EVENING TOUR

Today, you will be collected from your hotel in Hoi An and transferred to the airport by private car for your onward flight.

Fly from Danang to Saigon with Vietnam Airlines.

On arrival in Saigon you will be met and transferred to your chosen hotel.

This evening you'll be collected at 6 pm from your hotel.

Enjoy an authentic night out, wandering through hidden streets tasting some of  the best food the city has to offer; sample regional delicacies and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Start with a stroll along the small alleys at a local market. As you wander through the narrow pathways, be greeted by the bustling sounds of vendors selling a variety of goods. 

Carry on to discover the area’s contrasting architectural styles. Tucked away is an unassuming stall selling delicious bot chien, or pan fried rice cakes with green papaya salad, a street food staple. Whilst tasting the flavourful dish, the guide explains its origins. 

Continue through the backstreets and venture to a vibrant residential complex to witness the daily lives of locals. You’ll see small apartments where three generations may reside under one roof, while neighbors converse and share stories of their day. 

Lively, colourful and vibrant, sit down for a seafood dinner, a well-loved meal among Saigonese. If fortunate, catch a glimpse of the charismatic owner. 

Afterwards, walk down back streets to the city’s main  flower market where a demonstration on the art of the lotus flower will be given.

Continue to a lively night market where the city’s young people gather. Sit alongside the locals and order some savoury treats or a dessert if you fancy, before returning to your hotel where the tour ends.

SAIGON - HALF DAY TOUR

Today’s tour begins at 08:30.

Meet with a local guide and set off on a half day tour of Saigon.

Start with a visit to the city’s most iconic building: Reunification Hall. Formerly called the Presidential Palace, images of the building were seen around the world on 30 April 1975 when tanks stormed the gates as Saigon fell to the North Vietnamese. Hear the echoes of time while walking through this historic downtown site.

Then take a stroll to Saigon’s colonial quarter, walking past scenes of everyday life on the way. Admire the beautiful architecture of the Opera House, City Hall, the old Saigon Post Office, Hear about the glory days of French Indochina and how that era continues to influence aspects of modern Vietnamese culture.

Step inside the War Remnants Museum for an insightful, yet sombre, look into Vietnam’s military history. See exhibitions displaying imagery from the French and American wars, learning more about the country’s struggle for independence and hearing tales of the resilience of the Vietnamese people.

Then step off the tourist trail for one last visit on this Saigon tour at a Vietnamese coffee shop, sit down and taste the coffee like locals.

After this insightful visit, return to your hotel.

Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. This evening why not head out to one of Saigon's great rooftops bar/restaurants.

MEKONG RIVER DELTA

In the morning you will be collected from your hotel and transferred to meet your Mekong Cruise in Can Tho or Cai Be.

Board your wooden river cruise vessel around noon. After a refreshing welcome drink you'll be shown the on-board facilities and your cosy cabin.

As lunch is served, the boat starts cruising. Sit back and admire the scenery and daily life in the Mekong Delta.

In the afternoon you can disembark for a guided leisurely stroll through a village and the surrounding fruit orchards or rice fields. Meet the locals and taste the local produce and fruits.

Get back on board and enjoy a drink at the bar or relax on deck as the sun sets over the magnificent water landscape of the Mekong River.

The boat will anchor for the night and the day ends with a delicious on-board dinner.

Overnight on board.

MEKONG DELTA

Wake up well rested to the sound of the Mekong River and get ready for another exciting day of sightseeing in the Mekong Delta.

At around 06:30 the cruise departs for a sunrise cruise. Over breakfast, watch the locals go about their daily work drying exotic fruits and building ships in the wooden yards.

After breakfast board a sampan, depending on the routing either to the Cai Rang floating market, the region’s busiest and most lively market.

Pull up to the boats to bargain with the merchants. Alternatively explore the small channels of the Mekong Delta around Cai Be with a small sampan or by foot.

Marvel at the sheer abundance of exotic fruits, vegetables and skilfully handcrafted regional products.  Also visit some of the local candy and rice paper manufacturers or boat through the green water landscape to see local houses, verdant orchards and ship-building yards.

Disembark the boat around 11.00 – 11.30 on the pier and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

Sit back in the shuttle (bus or car) and watch the water landscape from a land perspective until you reach Chau Doc and the elegant Victoria Hotel. 

TRAVEL TO PHNOM PENH

This morning you will be transferred to the pier where you'll embark on to a speed boat for an exciting ride to Phnom Penh, your starting point for discovering Cambodia and the famous temples of Angkor Wat.

The boat arrives around noon in Phnom Penh; the trip ends with a transfer to your hotel in the city.

Enjoy the rest of the day to enjoy your riverside boutique hotel on the outskirts of the city.

Head into town for drinks and dinner tonight if you wish.

PHNOM PENH - FULL DAY TOUR 

After breakfast you will be collected from your hotel.

Get to know Phnom Penh, a vibrant city steeped in history. On first appearance it appears to be a busy, soulless capital, but through carefully-selected tours the soul of Phnom Penh reveals itself.

Commence the sightseeing in Phnom Penh with a visit to the Royal Palace located in the city centre. Explore the majestic compound and step back in time to when the Kingdom flourished. See the spectacular reception halls and historic royal costumes. The elegant Silver Pagoda, with its solid-silver floor, is a reminder of the prosperity of the former royal families.

Continue to the adjacent National Museum. Housed in a beautiful old building surrounded by tropical gardens, the museum is a tranquil oasis in the busy city centre. Go inside to see seemingly endless displays of art and artefacts dating back to the pre-Angkorian era.

Continue by traveling to the hilltop pagoda of Wat Phnom, for which the capital was named. Although not the most beautiful temple, the hilltop offers fabulous views of the city below.

Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant.

Explore the more recent history of Cambodia this afternoon. Visit Tuol Sleng Prison (S-21) and the Killing Fields at Choeung Ek, sites used by the Khmer Rouge regime when they ravaged the country in the 1970's and 80's.

The lasting effects of this tragic period are still being felt. Although the visits are sombre, studying this era is important in helping to understand present-day Cambodia.

FLY TO SIEM REAP

Today, you will be collected from your hotel in Phnom Penh and transferred to the airport by private car for your onward flight.

Fly from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap with Cambodia Angkor Air.

On arrival in Siem Reap you will be met and transferred to your chosen hotel.

Enjoy the rest of the day at Zannier Phum Baitang, a beatiful resort style hotel on the outskirts of town.

SIEM REAP - FULL DAY TOUR 

You will be collected early from your hotel today to visit Phnom Bakheng.

This hilltop temple is most popular at sunset and, as the main temple of King Yasovarman, founder and namesake of Yasodharapura, it is a logical starting point for an exploration of the ancient city. From atop Phnom Bakheng, which requires walking up a wide, winding dirt road around the exterior of the 79m-high hill, you will be able to witness the sunrise over Angkor Wat.

Return to your hotel for your breakfast.

Return to the Angkor complex and visit Bayon, the temple at the center of Angkor Thom city, built by the last great king: Jayavarman VII. A tour of the city can begin at The Terrace of The Elephants and the Royal Palace enclosure. The forested grounds are beautiful in the morning.

Take a stroll around the lower galleries of carvings of Bayon, which depict fascinating scenes of life from the late 11th century, then find a quiet spot on the exterior of the temple to appreciate the 52 towers featuring faces of the Buddha looking out into the jungle around you.

You will have a break time for lunch in a local restaurant (own account) before continue to Ta Prohm, the temple made famous by the Angelina Jolie film Tomb Raider, which is otherwise best known for the trees and vines growing atop the temple walls. The temple is a perfect example of how nature has crept in and reclaimed its land after the fall of the Angkorian Empire.

One nice feature of Angkor Wat is that the eight galleries of carvings (where you will spend much of your time) is within a covered, open-air enclosure, making this one of the few times that you will be protected from the sun. Furthermore, as the only west-facing temple, Angkor Wat is best to visit (and photograph) in the late afternoon, arriving around 2:30 - 3pm, enjoying the uppermost platform around 5:00pm, and walking out as the guards begin corralling visitors out of the complex at 5:30pm.

Exiting the temple with the setting sun shining on the Vishnu image discovered beneath the temple’s central sanctuary is a magical sight to behold and a fitting end of your exploration of the temple built by King Suryavarman, whose name translates to “protected by the sun”.

Note: Should you wish to witness a sunset, there are limited options and they can be quite crowded. Consider finding a quiet place away from the crowds, such as atop the city wall beside the West or South gate of Angkor Thom, or Srah Srang. Be advised that a sunset will typically have you returning to town after 7:00 pm.

With a treasure trove of photos and memories, return to town for the evening.

SIEM REAP

Enjoy the day at leisure.

You can relax at the resort or alternatively add on a day trip to Tonle Sap Lake, the largest lake in South East Asia.

FLY TO AUCKLAND

You will be collected from your hotel and transferred to the airport by private car for your onward flight.

Fly from Siem Reap to Singapore with Singapore Airlines.

Fly from Singapore to Auckland with Singapore Airlines.

ARRIVE AUCKLAND

Arrive back in New Zealand.