Meal: not included | Accommodation: in Hanoi

Arriving at Noi Bai airport in Hanoi, you’ll find our driver waiting to take you to your hotel in the city center. Time for relaxing after the journey. You’ll spend the night in Hanoi.

Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is a captivating destination that offers travelers a rich blend of history, culture, and vibrant urban life. Located in the northern part of the country, the city is known for its seamless blending of tradition with modernity, making it a must-visit destination for travelers looking to experience the heart and soul of Vietnam. Whether you're interested in history, cuisine, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, Hanoi has something for all.

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Hanoi

Your day begins at 8:00 a.m. with a warm hotel pick-up, where we'll whisk you away to start your day orientating around Hanoi.

First, we'll delve into Vietnam's rich educational heritage with a visit to the prestigious Temple of Literature. Be enchanted by the beautiful architecture and tranquil gardens of this ancient university, a symbol of wisdom and intellectual achievement. Next, prepare to be captivated by the diversity of Vietnamese culture at the Museum of Ethnology. Immerse yourself in the fascinating exhibits that showcase the country's ethnic groups, their traditional customs, and colorful heritage.

After a delightful lunch tantalizing your taste buds with authentic Hanoi cuisine, in the afternoon, we continue our journey with a visit to the iconic Ho Chi Minh Complex to gain insight into the life of Vietnam's beloved leader as we explore the Presidential Palace, Stilt House, and One Pillar Pagoda.

Next, we'll immerse ourselves in Hanoi's bustling heart, the Old Quarter, navigating its charming alleys and partaking in an enticing street food tasting to savor the city's culinary delights. Finally, we'll be awed by the mesmerizing Water Puppet Show, a traditional art form that brings age-old tales to life. Back to your hotel before sunset time.

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: on board the Treasure Junk

8:00 to 8:30 am we will pick you up at your hotel and leave on our shuttle bus for a 3.5-hour drive to Halong City. 

Upon arrival, we'll board the Treasure Junk for a delightful cruise through Halong Bay, savoring a delicious seafood lunch (vegetarian and kid's options available). After lunch, take it easy and soak in the breathtaking scenery of limestone formations rising from the emerald water. Our first stop awaits at the convergence of Halong and Bai Tu Long waters, where you'll have the chance to paddle through the bay with our kayaks. As the sun sets, enjoy a cocktail on board while we sail to our night anchorage spot. Dinner will be served indoors or outdoors, depending on the weather. You'll spend the night in our comfortable, air-conditioned cabins with en-suite bathrooms aboard the Treasure.

Note: On our way to Halong, we will stop at a place with food, beverages, and souvenirs for sale. Please bear in mind that we are not trying to incite you to buy any product. This is just the only place on the way with proper facilities that our travelers, guides, and drivers can use without being forced to buy anything. Thanks for your understanding.

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Luang Prabang

Awaken to the serene misty bay at 6:30 a.m., where coffee, tea, and cakes await. You can choose to energize your body, mind, and soul with a 30-minute Tai Chi session led by our onboard master or simply bask in the sun with coffee. Later, embark on a bamboo boat to explore a secluded floating village, meandering through floating houses and rowing boats serving various purposes. Returning to the Treasure before 9:00 am, we'll cruise back to the pier, followed by a brunch at 9:30. As we bid farewell to the majestic rocks guarding the kingdom, we'll head to the pier and get a transfer back to Hanoi by our shuttle bus. 

You'll have free time until our driver arrives to take you to Hanoi airport for your flight to Luang Prabang. Upon arrival in Luang Prabang, a local guide will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your city center hotel.

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Luang Prabang

We will kick off the day by immersing ourselves in the local culture at the vibrant Morning Market. Afterward, we'll explore the exquisite Wat Mai temple, known for its stunning architecture and intricate details. Next, we'll take a step back in time as we visit the Former King's Palace, a majestic testament to Laos' royal history. Our morning adventure concludes with a visit to the iconic Wat Xieng Thong, a masterpiece of Lao temple architecture. 

After a delicious local lunch, we have two fantastic options for you to choose from. For those interested in the history of the region, the UXO Visitor's Centre provides a poignant insight into the legacy of unexploded ordnance in Laos. Alternatively, if you prefer to immerse yourself in the world of textiles and crafts, Ock Pop Tok offers a unique experience. Our next stop is Wat Visoun, the oldest operating temple in Luang Prabang, boasting a fascinating blend of architectural styles. Finally, we'll wrap up our day at the Traditional Art and Ethnology Centre, where we'll learn about the diverse ethnic groups of Laos and their rich cultural heritage. 

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Luang Prabang

For early risers, there is a very special dawn visit to watch the monks collecting alms. As the sun begins to rise, long lines of orange-robed monks leave their pagodas and walk barefoot down the streets collecting offerings from Luang Prabang residents.

In the morning, we venture outside of Luang Prabang to visit the breathtaking Kuang Si Waterfall. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the well-maintained trails and take a refreshing dip in the inviting natural pools or simply unwind amidst nature's beauty. There’s also an opportunity to visit the nearby Bear Sanctuary, where you can observe and learn about the conservation efforts dedicated to protecting and rehabilitating endangered Asiatic black bears. Witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges they face and the importance of preserving their species.

In the afternoon, embark on a scenic boat cruise along the Mekong River to the renowned Pak Ou Caves. Discover these ancient limestone caves that house thousands of Buddhist statues, offering a glimpse into the spiritual beliefs and traditions of Laos. Admire the intricately carved sculptures and absorb the spiritual ambiance as you explore the dimly lit chambers. Back to Luang Prabang in the late afternoon. End of our service.

Meal: breakfast | Accommodation: not included

Time will be on your own until our driver arrives and takes you to Luang Prabang airport, at a good time for boarding your departure flight. End of our service.