Xin chào, and welcome to Hanoi, Vietnam's vibrant capital city! Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by a local guide and transferred to your hotel. The rest of your day is at your leisure to get settled and begin exploring your surroundings. Special Information Arrival airport transfers are included as part of your package. You will be met upon arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel. If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed. If you are arriving early and have made your own arrangements prior to your tour commencing, airport transfers will not be included. However, if you are purchasing pre-night accommodation as part of your Inspiring Vacations package, airport transfers will still be provided to the starting hotel.

After breakfast, your journey begins with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Complex, which includes Ba Dinh Square, Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum, and his stilt house, set in serene gardens. Nearby, you'll see the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, a significant symbol of Hanoi. You'll then continue to the Tran Quoc Pagoda by the West Lake, admiring its intricate design. This afternoon, stop at the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university, before enjoying a walk through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter. You'll pause for a coffee at a hidden local cafe before returning to your hotel. The evening is at your leisure Inspiring Highlights Ho Chi Minh Complex One Pillar Pagoda Tran Quoc Pagoda Temple of Literature Hanoi's Old Quarter

After breakfast and checking out, you'll travel to Pu Luong Nature Reserve, a hidden gem nestled in the mountains of Thanh Hoa province. The scenic drive takes you through winding roads and charming villages, transitioning from the city's bustle to a peaceful world of terraced rice fields and lush forests. Upon arrival, you'll be ready for a beautiful walk. A short drive will take you to the starting point in Dong Dieng Village. From there, you'll walk down through picturesque terraced fields to Kho Muong Village. Observe the local guide as they identify various plants and herbs. Afterwards, head to a traditional stilt house in Kho Muong village to see how herbs are prepared for a traditional foot bath. Enjoy the sunset over the mountains before heading back to your retreat for the night. Inspiring Highlights Pu Luong Nature Reserve Walking through Dong Dieng and Kho Muong villages Herbal foot bath Special Information Your travel time today is approximately 5 hours. Pu Luong walk: Pu Luong is known for its gentle terrain and scenic beauty. Rolling hills, terraced rice fields, limestone ridges, and open valleys offer easy walks through ethnic villages, bamboo forests, and cool streams—perfect for soft adventures without the need for advanced hiking skills. The walk route is 3.5 – 4km approx.

Enjoy a free day to relax and explore Pu Luong at your own pace. You might spend time unwinding amidst the tranquil natural surroundings or choose an optional tour to discover more of the local culture and landscape. If you choose to explore on your own, you could take a walk to discover more of the beautiful rice terraces. Pu Luong is a place to slow down, so you may simply want to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of your accommodation, or find a spot to sit and observe local life.

After breakfast and checking out, you'll travel to Ninh Binh, a land of striking limestone karsts and tranquil rivers often called "Halong Bay on land." The scenic drive offers a peaceful transition from the mountains to the timeless charm of northern Vietnam's countryside. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel, and the rest of the day is at your leisure to explore the area. Consider a walk around the area to admire the beautiful limestone landscapes, or find a local cafe to relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere. The surrounding countryside is perfect for leisurely exploration. Special Information Your travel time today is approximately 3 hours.

After breakfast and checking out, you'll journey to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the pride of the Gulf of Tonkin. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred by tender boat to an overnight cruise. Check into your private cabin, and enjoy a sumptuous lunch on board as you sail among the breathtaking scenery of thousands of limestone rocks and karst grottoes. After lunch, you will have time to rest before joining activities like swimming or kayaking. Later in the afternoon, return to the cruise for a cooking demonstration before dinner. Inspiring Highlights Overnight cruise Cooking demonstration Special Information Your travel time today is approximately 3 hours. The cruise itinerary is subject to change without prior notice and depends on weather conditionsThe tour guide will not escort you on board. There will be an English-speaking cruise manager who will take care of all passengers during the trip in Ha Long, accompanied by his staff.

Wake up to a beautiful sunrise over the bay's islets. The boat will take you past some of the most marvelous areas, where each islet has its own unique name, like the Fisherman's Head, the Turtle, or the Cock Fighting Rocks. You will then return to the wharf and travel back to Hanoi. At the appointed time, you will be transferred to the train station to board your overnight train to Dong Hoi at around 7 pm. Special Information Your travel time today from Ha Long to Hanoi is approx. 4 hours.Your train documentation will be given to you on tour by your tour guide. Each guest is allowed one piece of luggage up to 20kg and one small carry-on bag of around 5kg. You will be accommodated in a shared 4-berth train cabin. An upgrade to a private cabin is available, subject to availability—please refer to the fine print for details. Please note, shared or private, there is no ensuite bathroom, and the toilets are shared. If you prefer not to travel by overnight train, we also offer the option to fly the following morning. This will require an overnight stay in Hanoi —please refer to the fine print for details.

A light breakfast will be served on the train before arriving in Dong Hoi. Upon arrival in Dong Hoi (around 6am), you will be met by a guide and transferred to your hotel in Phong Nha to drop off your luggage. The rest of the day is at your leisure to get settled and explore the area until check-in time. You could take a relaxed walk to admire the peaceful surroundings or find a local spot for lunch. The village has a serene atmosphere, perfect for a quiet afternoon. Special Information Your travel time today is approximately 1hr.

After breakfast, you will depart for Dong Ha town to explore key historical sites within the former Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), a significant battleground from the Vietnam War. You will visit the Vinh Moc Tunnels, where villagers lived underground to survive heavy bombings, and the Hien Luong Bridge and Ben Hai River, which once divided North and South Vietnam. You'll follow the Ho Chi Minh Trail and conclude your journey at the Khe Sanh Combat Base, now a museum with war relics and bunkers. Afterwards, you will head to Hue. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Inspiring Highlights Vinh Moc Tunnels Hien Luong Bridge and Ben Hai River Ho Chi Minh Trail Khe Sanh Combat Base Special Information Your travel time today is approximately 5 hours.

After breakfast, you will discover the charm of Hue, beginning with the Royal Citadel and Forbidden City. You will visit the Hue Royal Museum and the Tombs of King Tu Duc, a well-preserved monument showcasing the dynasty's architecture and culture. In the afternoon, you'll head to the Tam Giang pier and take a boat to explore the beautiful Tam Giang Lagoon. You'll experience the daily life of local fishermen and enjoy the fresh air and peaceful atmosphere. Afterwards, you'll visit Rú Chá, a small mangrove islet, before returning to your hotel in the late afternoon. Inspiring Highlights Royal Citadel Forbidden City Hue Royal Museum Tombs of King Tu Duc Boat trip on Tam Giang Lagoon Visit to Rú Chá

After breakfast and check out, you will travel to Hoi An, an exceptionally well-preserved example of a South-East Asian trading port. Upon arrival, you'll explore the ancient town on foot, walking over the tile-roofed Japanese Bridge and visiting the Chinese Assembly Halls, old houses, and pagodas. You'll then have the remainder of the evening to wander through the market by the Thu Bon River, where you can shop for lanterns or silk. Inspiring Highlights Hoi An Ancient Town Special Information Your travel time today is approximately 3.5 hours.

Today is at your leisure to enjoy Hoi An at your own pace. You could explore the charming streets, find a local coffee shop to relax in, or visit the nearby beaches. Hoi An is a great place to simply wander and absorb the atmosphere. The local tailors are renowned, so this could be an opportunity to have a custom-made outfit created.

Today, you'll transfer to Da Nang airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City, the bustling metropolis of southern Vietnam. Upon arrival, you'll be met by your local guide and transferred to your hotel. Later, the story of modern Vietnam comes to life as you visit the Reunification Palace, a symbol of the nation's history. You'll then marvel at the French colonial architecture of the Central Post Office before diving into the vibrant sights and sounds of Ben Thanh and Yersin Markets. The rest of the afternoon is at your leisure to explore the city at your own pace. Inspiring Highlights Reunification Palace Ben Thanh and Yersin Markets Special InformationYour travel time today is approximately 5 hours. Your flight documentation will be given to you on tour by your tour guide. Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 23kg, and one 12kg carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be unescorted, however your tour guide will assist you on either end to ensure that your journey is trouble free. On your departure from Da Nang you will say goodbye to your tour guide, and your group will be met by a local guide in Ho Chi Minh City, who will meet and greet you, coordinate your activities in town and be reachable to assist you as needed.

After breakfast, you'll travel to the Mekong Delta for an unforgettable excursion. Arriving at the Ham Luong dock, you'll board a boat to cruise along the Ham Luong River, a major tributary of the Mekong. The cool breeze and lush tropical scenery will welcome you to this unique region. You'll visit a number of local workshops and family businesses to see how residents use traditional methods to create products from natural materials like activated charcoal and coconut fiber. You'll also take a "Xe Lôi" (motorised rickshaw) ride through the village before kayaking through a beautiful, tropical canal. Enjoy some free time to cycle or walk around the village (this activity is optional if time is available and will be done on your own) before visiting a local fruit plantation to taste some seasonal tropical fruits. You'll then enjoy a relaxing sampan ride in a small boat before heading back to Ho Chi Minh City. Tonight is at your leisure. Inspiring Highlights Mekong Delta Excursion Local craft workshop visit Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

After breakfast, check out of your accommodation and depart for Chau Doc. After a morning of memorable exploration, we continue to Tra Su Cajuput Forest, located about 30 km from Chau Doc (approximately a 1-hour drive).There, you'll enjoy a serene boat ride through the lush green forest, spot exotic bird species, and stroll along the panoramic bamboo bridge suspended above the wetlands.Return to the mainland and drive up Sam Mountain to catch a stunning sunset over the Vietnam–Cambodia border.Afterwards, check in to your hotel and enjoy an overnight stay in Chau Doc.Special InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.

Early this morning you will board a ferry to Phnom Penh (around 7:30am).Upon arrival at Phnom Penh Port (around 1:30pm) , you will be welcomed by our local guide and driver, then begin your afternoon journey to explore the vibrant capital of Cambodia.Start with a visit to the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda, the official residence of the King of Cambodia. Gleaming in gold, the Royal Palace stands as one of Phnom Penh’s most magnificent architectural achievements. Within the complex is the impressive Throne Hall, located just to the left of the main entrance, featuring a striking 59-meter tower with a beautifully tiered roof adorned with golden tiles.Adjacent to the palace, the Silver Pagoda lies on the southern side of the complex. Its name comes from the over 5 tons of gleaming silver tiles that cover its floor—approximately 5,000 in total. While most of the tiles are protected under carpeting, you can catch glimpses of them near the entrance. Inside, admire a collection of lavish Buddha statues crafted from gold, silver, and other precious materials.Continue with a stroll through the scenic riverfront park, where four rivers, including the mystical Mekong, converge at a unique junction.Enjoy your evening at leisure.Inspiring HighlightsFerry to Phnom PenhRoyal PalaceSilver Pagoda

Leaving Phnom Penh behind, your journey to Siem Reap winds through Cambodia’s vibrant countryside—an ever-changing landscape of lush green rice paddies, towering sugar palm trees, and tranquil villages where daily life unfolds at a relaxed, timeless pace.Along the way, make a memorable stop in Skuon, famously known as "Spider Town," where street vendors proudly offer trays of crispy fried tarantulas, crickets, and other adventurous local delicacies. Whether you’re bold enough to sample a bite or simply prefer to observe the lively market scene, this quirky roadside stop provides a fascinating glimpse into Cambodia’s unique culinary traditions.Upon arrival in Siem Reap, check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.Special InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.

After breakfast, set out to explore the awe-inspiring Angkor temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Traveling by local tuk-tuk, we begin our journey at the ancient capital of Angkor Thom. Enter through the impressive South Gate, renowned for its towering stone carvings of serene human faces.Our first major stop is the enigmatic Bayon Temple, distinguished by its 54 towers adorned with over 200 smiling faces. Nearby, we visit the Baphuon Temple, located to the north of Bayon, representing Mount Meru—the mythical home of the gods in Hindu cosmology. Continue exploring the ancient city with stops at the Royal Enclosure, the pyramid-shaped Phimeanakas, the Elephant Terrace, and the Terrace of the Leper King.The morning concludes with a visit to Ta Prohm, the iconic "jungle temple" where massive tree roots intertwine with centuries-old stone ruins—famously featured in Tomb Raider starring Angelina Jolie.In the afternoon, discover the majestic Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. Marvel at its vast galleries of intricate bas-reliefs depicting Hindu epics, and wander through its impressive corridors, pavilions, libraries, and reflecting pools. During your visit, take part in a traditional monk blessing ceremony, where a red thread is tied around your wrist as a symbol of protection and good fortune.End your day with a visit to Phnom Bakheng Temple, a popular spot for panoramic sunset views over the Angkor plains. Afterwards, return to your hotel.Inspiring HighlightsAngkor Wat Complex

At the appropriate time today, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight. Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience. Special InformationDeparture transfers are included as part of your package. You will be collected from your hotel at the appropriate time and transferred to the airport to meet your flight. If you choose to extend your stay (e.g., departing after the final tour date) and have booked your additional accommodation independently, this included service will be forfeited and no refund will be issued. If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.