Vietnam Culinary Journey

Southern cuisine, shaped by its history, climate, and Southeast Asian influences, has a distinctive style. The dishes are typically sweet, spicy, and sour, offering a vibrant variety of flavours that reflect the region's diverse culinary traditions. Your culinary adventure begins at Ben Thanh Market, one of Saigon’s oldest markets, where a chef will guide you through its lively atmosphere and introduce you to local ingredients. Learn how to select the freshest produce while engaging with the friendly locals. The market, with its bustling stalls and colourful displays, reflects the lively food scene of the city. Later, a private hands-on course awaits, focusing on preparing Southern Vietnamese dishes and the art of presentation.

The day also includes a visit to the War Remnants Museum, offering insights into the American phase of the Vietnam War, followed by exploration of city landmarks such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, General Post Office, Saigon Opera House, City Hall of Ho Chi Minh City, and the lively Nguyen Hue Walking Street, which reveal the essence of the city’s rich history and culture.

Accommodations: Deluxe - New World Saigon Hotel
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch

Hoi An awaits you after a short flight from Ho Chi Minh City. Once known as Faifo, Hoi An was a major ‘Silk Road’ trading port from the 16th to the 19th centuries. This UNESCO World Heritage city is a remarkable example of a well-preserved traditional Southeast Asian trading port and commercial centre. Hoi An is undoubtedly among the highlights of any visit to Vietnam, with its laid-back atmosphere and fine architecture lining its narrow streets, offering a glimpse of times gone by. In the Ancient Town quarter, the blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European architectural influences creates a charming setting ideal for exploration on foot. Take in the sights of the Chua Ong Pagoda, Chinese Assembly Halls, Tan Ky ancestral house, the 400-year-old Japanese covered bridge, and Hoi An’s colourful market.

Accommodations: Deluxe - La Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa
Meals: Breakfast

Venture northward to Hue along the East Sea, enjoying breathtaking coastal views and the stunning mountain scenery of the Hai Van Pass, known as the Road of the Ocean Clouds. In central Vietnam, the Imperial City of Hue still retains the remnants of its majestic royal past. From 1802 to 1945, Vietnam’s former capital was home to 13 Nguyen emperors, who led an intriguing court life. This ancient city is also Vietnam’s epicentre of Buddhism, with many prominent pagodas. Savour a vegetarian meal prepared by Buddhist nuns at a tranquil pagoda perched on a hill, with most of the fresh produce sourced from local farms. Afterward, visit Emperor Khai Dinh's tomb, where traditional Vietnamese and European architectural styles blend in unusual harmony, and Minh Mang's tomb, an exotic and symmetrical complex adorned with ornate tilework and intricate wooden carvings inspired by both Vietnamese and Chinese designs. Tonight, indulge in the rich flavours of local delicacies at one of Hue's finest restaurants at your leisure.

Accommodations: Deluxe - Indochine Palace Hue
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch

A morning flight takes you to Hanoi, Vietnam's capital, where vibrant street life and rich heritage await. Regarded as Asia's loveliest city, Hanoi is adorned with scenic parks and lakes, tree-lined boulevards, and architecture rich in history. Despite increasing development, this ancient city retains a unique identity and cultural traditions. Take a tour of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, his former residence, and the house on stilts for insights into Vietnam's history, culture, and struggle for independence. Later, you may visit one of Hanoi's renowned museums, such as Hoa Lo Prison (nicknamed the 'Hanoi Hilton' by US pilots during the war), the Army Museum, the National Fine Arts Museum, the History Museum, or the Vietnamese Women's Museum. End your day at Tran Quoc Pagoda on West Lake, one of Vietnam's oldest pagodas and the site where American politician John Mc. Cain crash-landed in 1967.

Accommodations: Deluxe - Pan Pacific Hanoi
Meals: Breakfast

Transfer to Noi Bai International airport for your onward flight.

Meals: Breakfast