Compare Indochina: Vietnam, Cambodia & Laos 2019 by Tauck vs Discover Asia by TruTravels

Day 1 Arrive in Hanoi

Tour begins: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi at 6:00 PM. Transfers are included from Hanoi Int'l Airport to Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi. Join us for a welcome reception and dinner.

MEALS : D

LODGING : Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

PORTOFCALL : Hanoi, Vietnam

Day 2 Highlights of Hanoi, Old and New

Leave your preconceived images behind as you become acquainted with gracious Hanoi, ranking among the world's most attractive and interesting cities. Walk and take a buggy ride through Colonial Hanoi, seeing the Opera House and other local sights. Go inside infamous Hoa Lo Prison ("Hanoi Hilton"), where Senator John McCain and Douglas "Pete" Wilson were once imprisoned, and continue on to Da Ba Dinh Square to view Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Presidential Palace and the One-Pillar Pagoda. Attend a traditional water puppet performance this evening before dinner on your own. Please note: the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex is closed each year for annual renovations from September to December; Ho Chi Minh's stilt house and the One-Pillar Pagoda are still open for viewing.

MEALS : B, L

LODGING : Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

PORTOFCALL : Hanoi, Vietnam

Day 3 An overnight Cruise on Ha Long Bay

Head north to Ha Long Bay for an extraordinary glimpse of rural life by land and sea. See villagers working in rice paddies, water buffaloes grazing in the open and ancient temples standing as testaments to history. Limestone islets, some 3,000 of them, line Ha Long Bay on the emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. Board the Paradise Elegance, combining traditional oriental design and modern amenities, for an overnight cruise among the limestone islands. After lunch onboard ship and more sightseeing on the bay, enjoy some free time to go swimming or kayaking, followed by a cooking demonstration before dinner onboard this evening.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Paradise Elegance

PORTOFCALL : Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Day 4 From the bay to Hoi An via Da Nang

After spending part of the morning cruising on Ha Long Bay, disembark Paradise Elegance and return to Hanoi to catch your flight to the city of Da Nang on the South China Sea. From there, you'll travel a short distance to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hoi An, where you'll spend the next two nights in Grand Deluxe rooms in your MGallery Collection hotel, the Hotel Royal Hoi An.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Hotel Royal Hoi An

PORTOFCALL : Hoi An, Vietnam

Day 5 Exploring Hoi An, a World Heritage Site

A busy international trading port from the 15th to 19th centuries on the banks of the Thu Bon River, Hoi An is known for having preserved the traditional streets, temples and housing that reflect its multicultural heritage. Highlights include an 18th-century Japanese-style bridge with its own pagoda, the Phung Hung House and a riverside street market. After touring Hoi An's historic highlights via cyclo, spend the rest of the day and evening exploring this living museum as you wish, or simply relaxing at your hotel.

MEALS : B

LODGING : Hotel Royal Hoi An

PORTOFCALL : Hoi An, Vietnam

Day 6 To Ho Chi Minh City & Cu Chi Tunnels

Fly to Ho Chi Minh City this morning; upon arrival, head to the Cu Chi Tunnels in Ben Duoc for a close-up look at the Vietnam War. Stretching out in a 120-mile underground network of meeting rooms, triage centers and kitchens, Cu Chi offers a unique look at the wartime life of Viet Cong guerillas and peasant soldiers. Enjoy dinner tonight at a local restaurant.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : InterContinental Asiana Saigon

PORTOFCALL : Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Day 7 Discovering Ho Chi Minh City

You may remember this former French colonial city as Saigon; today, Ho Chi Minh City bustles with forward-looking energy in glittering skyscapes, street vendors and open-air cafés. See vestiges of its past on a sightseeing tour that includes Reunification Hall, formerly the presidential palace of South Vietnam, the Post Office and the Cathedral. After lunch, spend the rest of the afternoon and evening exploring as you please in Ho Chi Minh City.

MEALS : B, L

LODGING : InterContinental Asiana Saigon

PORTOFCALL : Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Day 8 Life in the Mekong Delta

From Ho Chi Minh City, drive to the Mekong River town of Cai Be and board a motorized sampan to cruise through small villages along the banks and floating markets for an authentic look at daily life along the river and the Mekong Delta. Stop at a local rice paper workshop and a fish sauce factory to sample their wares. Lunch at a local farmer's home provides a look at daily life before you return by land to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : InterContinental Asiana Saigon

PORTOFCALL : Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Day 9 Fly to Phnom Penh

Take a morning flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Cambodia's capital, Phnom Penh, arriving in time for lunch. This afternoon, visit the Apsara Arts Association, dedicated to the preservation of traditional Cambodian dance and culture. Dine in style this evening at one of the city's top restaurants for fine French cuisine. Your home for the next two nights is the landmark Raffles Hotel Le Royal, where French colonial ambiance has been welcoming royalty, celebrities and jetsetters for over eighty years.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Raffles Hotel Le Royal

PORTOFCALL : Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Day 10 The Many Faces of Phnom Penh

Explore Phnom Penh's Royal Palace complex this morning, where you'll find solid silver tiles on the floor of the Silver Pagoda, which today serves as a repository for religious and cultural treasures; the architecture of the various buildings in the complex is extraordinary. Visit the National Museum, housing the world's premier collection of Khmer art, including bronzes, ceramics and sculpture, and chronicling Cambodia's history and culture. After lunch, join us for a poignant, optional trip to the infamous "Killing Fields" of Choeung Ek and the Tuol Sleng Museum, memorializing the victims of the infamous "S-21" prison operated at the site.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Raffles Hotel Le Royal

PORTOFCALL : Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Day 11 Fly to Siem Reap & visit Angkor Wat

Drive from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor. More than 1,000 archeological sites have been identified at what were the ancient Khmer metropolitan areas. Begin exploring some of them today on a guided visit to Angkor Wat, said to be the largest temple ruins in the world; the bas-reliefs that adorn the massive temple are among the finest examples of 12th-century Khmer art. Dine at your hotel, Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor, this evening.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor

PORTOFCALL : Siem Reap, Cambodia

Day 12 Ancient Temples of Angkor

View amazing sculpted monuments celebrating the ancient Khmer Empire on a guided tour that takes you to the root-shrouded Temple of Ta Prohm, imperial Angkor Thom, elaborate Elephant Terrace and the incomparable Bayon Temple. After lunch at a popular local restaurant, the rest of the day is free to spend as you please; dine at your hotel tonight.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor

PORTOFCALL : Siem Reap, Cambodia

Day 13 Fly to Colorful Luang Prabang in Laos

The beguiling Laotian city of Luang Prabang captivates with gold-leafed monasteries, French architecture, fragrant flowers and flavorful spices. Enjoy dinner at your luxurious hotel after settling in for a three-night stay.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : The Luang Say Residence

PORTOFCALL : Siem Reap, Cambodia

Day 14 Alms in Luang Prabang & local rural life

Shortly after dawn in Luang Prabang, a gong announces the end of morning prayers and the beginning of a procession of monks emerging from the temples to seek alms; rise early this morning to experience this extraordinary ritual. After breakfast, explore the National Museum, preserved from its days as a royal residence at the turn of the 20th century and depicting day-to-day life for the rich and royal; visit the Wat Mai temple; and take an orientation tour of the city. Then, a scenic drive through the countryside leads to the multi-tiered cascades of the Tad Kouang Si waterfalls, tumbling over limestone formations to create turquoise-colored pools; the wildlife-rich jungle surrounding the falls entices with natural footpaths perfect for hiking. Return to your hotel in Luang Prabang for an evening spent at as you please.

MEALS : B, L

LODGING : The Luang Say Residence

PORTOFCALL : Luang Prabang, Laos

Day 15 Waterfalls, visit to a special village and a traditional Lao Baci ceremony

Morning sightseeing takes you to picture-perfect Tad Kouang Si waterfalls. Have lunch at a local restaurant in Luang Prabang, then join us this afternoon for a visit to an elephant village for an educational opportunity - and time spent interacting with the elephants! Join us this evening for a farewell reception and dinner that is highlighted by a special Lao welcome and a traditional Lao Baci well-wishing ceremony, complete with music and dance.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : The Luang Say Residence

PORTOFCALL : Luang Prabang, Laos

Day 16 Life in the Laotian countryside & journey home

Spend the morning on a community based living rice farm in the countryside, surrounded by mountains and rice paddies. You'll have an opportunity to experience the life of local rice farmers and try your hand at some of their daily activities, or view them from the comfort of a traditional Lao rice house balcony, surrounded by rice terraces and an organic vegetable farm. There will also be time to visit local handicraft workshops featuring crafts including bamboo weaving, blacksmithing, and sugar cane processing, and a tour of an organic garden offers insights on how natural herbs are used in traditional medicine. Return to your hotel for lunch, then a late-day flight brings you back to Hanoi. Tour ends: Hanoi. Fly to Hanoi International Airport to connect with your flight home, arriving early evening; international flights should depart no earlier than 9 PM. Allow three hours for flight check-in at the airport.

MEALS : B, L

PORTOFCALL : Luang Prabang, Laos

Day 1 Airport Pick Up

Like on all of our trips, we can collect you from the airport when you land and take you directly to your hotel. The first day is just a check-in day so you have this freedom to explore the city and get settled in. Spend time bonding with your new group of pals before hitting the infamous Khao San Road in the evening for drinks.

Day 2 Temples & River Cruise

We are back in Bangkok, and it’s time to explore the capital even further! We’ll hop into a tuk-tuk and head to Bangkok’s most prestigious temples, Wat Arun and Wat Pho, which is home to the infamous gold reclining Buddha. We will then ditch the tuks tuks for long-tail boats, as we admire the views of the city from the Chao Praya River, a different way of seeing Bangkok. Take a look into the water and try to see if you can spot the fish, they aren’t usually very shy! You’ll have the rest of the afternoon to explore at your own pace, you can grab a bite to eat from the street vendors, do a bit of shopping at the market and try your best at bartering (our TruNinjas can give you some tips don’t fret). In the evening, we will meet for dinner and then head out for drinks on Khao San Road, which is full of backpackers, some may say it’s backpacker heaven. We’ll let you decide that for yourself. Either way, it’s a good time, you can’t go to Bangkok and not go to Khao San Road.

Day 3 Massage & Overnight Train

Enjoy a Thai massage in the morning, before boarding a sleeper train for the night, a truly authentic Thai experience. You’ll get your very own berth on the train, and it’s a great place to get to know the rest of your group a little better. We travel south, out of Bangkok, towards Khao Sok National Park – situated in the Surat Thani province of Thailand. Watching the scenery change from a sprawling cityscape to countryside dotted throughout by limestone mountains is definitely something you won’t forget in a hurry

Day 4 Khao Sok National Park

Head via longtail boat, into Khao Sok National Park to our floating bungalows, stopping for a quick dip along the way at a couple of Instagram-worthy locations. Try your hand at some kayaking or chill with a cold beer in a tube in front of the absolutely stunning backdrop of the surrounding limestone mountain range. You’ll soon see why this place is, and always will be, a TruTravels favourite destination.

Day 5 Travel to Koh Phangan

Wake up in your floating bungalow and why not take a quick dip in the freshwater lake before breakfast. After a relaxed morning, we make our way over to Koh Phangan; an island to the east. Once we get there, we go straight to a place called Bottle Beach, another one of our favourite locations! It’s beautiful, quiet, accessible only by boat, and to make it even better, we get the whole place pretty much to ourselves, staying in beach bungalows pretty much right on the water. Relax here for the rest of the day on the beach or in the bar. After dinner, we’ll all enjoy a bonfire on the beach, complete with a fire show.

Day 6 Morning Chill & Muay Thai Lesson

A nice chilled wake up to the sound of waves rolling in on the beach. You will have a free morning to make the most of your surroundings. You can go kayaking, play volleyball, top up the tan, trek to viewpoints or enjoy a lay in. We are picked up early afternoon and taken to a local gym, where you can try your hand at a bit of Muay Thai boxing, Thailand’s national sport. After, we head to our awesome accommodation where we will spend the final nights of the trip. It’s got a great bar, and atmosphere; an ideal location to spend the evening.

Day 7 Island Boat Trip

Today you’re a pirate. Arrrrrrr. Well, you can pretend to be if you want, cos we’re getting going sailing and taking you on a tour of this magical island. There’s a reason so many of the TruCrew live here on Koh Phangan. We’ll sail around the coast of the island, we’ll stop off at one of the small islands off the coast of Phangan for some beach shenanigans and at a snorkelling spot to check out the sea life and cool down. Sailing in Thailand for the win! Lunch is provided on the boat, there's plenty of space to spread out and soak up some rays with some nice tunes playing all day to wrap it all up. We get back to land around sunset, just in time to refresh for dinner and drinks on our last night in Koh Phangan. The island is well known for its party scene so if the group’s up for a boogie on the last night in Koh Phangan, we can find something that suits, alternatively a quiet night by the pool/beach bar can also be arranged.

Day 8 Travel to Koh Tao

It’s now time to catch the ferry over to Koh Tao or ‘Turtle Island’ where we will spend the next 2 nights. (Recently voted ‘Best Island in S.E. Asia’ in a Trip Advisor survey). Drop your bags off at our hotel, which is just a short stroll to Sairee beach. We’ll enjoy the sunset over a couple of drinks, & relax in this island paradise.

Day 9 Koh Nang Yuan

Enjoy a boat ride from Koh Tao to the adjoining and amazingly beautiful island of Koh Nang Yuan. Here we can snorkel in the Japanese Gardens and trek up to the viewpoint to get some seriously Instagram-worthy photos. Afterwards, we head back to Koh Tao we will have some free time before meeting for dinner & a night out.

Day 10 Action/Relaxation

Today we have a free day to either soak up some rays or get active. We will arrange a taxi round to Tanote Bay, one of our favourite spots on the island for those who want to have a nice chilled beach day. In the evening, we will jump on the night ferry over to the mainland where we are picked up by our private minibus (with tunes & DVD player) and taken over to the West coast and our next stop, the famous Phi Phi Islands.

Day 11 Phi Phi Islands

Once arriving into Phi Phi we will check in to our accommodation and take a trek up to the stunning viewpoint of the island below, before enjoying the epic beach nightlife.

Day 12 Phi Phi Boat Trip

Today we take you on a sunset boat trip round the islands, we stop outside of Maya Bay (where they actually filmed ‘The Beach’), Monkey Island and the Viking caves as well, as for some snorkelling in Phi Phi’s emerald waters. Lunch is included on the boat and after sunset, we go swimming with the phosphorescence (really cool glow in the dark plankton - seasonal)

Day 13 Phuket

We hop on the island boat over to Phuket, the largest of the Thai islands where we spend our last night. In the evening we will explore the wonders of Phuket & Patong before we celebrate the final night of an awesome trip!

Day 14 Siem Reap - Your Adventure Begins!

Today’s the first day of your epic adventure and your Tru welcome day! Give us a ‘Hell yeah!’ We kick things off in the gateway to Siem Reap, famous for Angkor Wat, rice wine (Sraa) that could power a ballistic missile, and a dining and bar scene that’s 78.6 times better than a night out in Llandudno. You can take advantage of your free airport pick up, or meet us at our hostel where you’ll join the rest of the family, along with your Travel Ninja. (Side note: Don’t worry, our Travel Ninjas aren’t real Ninjas. It’s just a name we made up to make us sound edgy.) You’ll have the day to chill, before joining your group for the welcome speech and heading out for a meal near the legendary Pub Street. You heard us right. PUB. STREET. A place of bonkers bars, weird and wonderful food, and enough neon lights to make Blackpool look like amateur hour. Then, if you fancy it, sink a drink or two - there’s no better way to get to know your Tru fam than via the medium of slurred, drunken jibber-jabber. (Non-drunken jibber-jabber also accepted.)

Day 15 Cambodia Rural Experience, & Floating Village, Sunset BBQ - TRU EXCLUSIVE

Today we set off for a Tru Exclusive. That’s right. An exclusive. You ain’t getting this shiz anywhere else, kids. Hop in a tuk tuk and drive through the bustling streets of Siem Riep to today’s cultural experience. Step into the shoes of a local Mango/Rice farmer (not literally. It’s against Cambodian law to steal shoes from farmers) and learn what it takes to harvest everyone’s favourite tropical fruit (if in season). You’ll even get to enjoy the fruits of your labour. See what we did there? Fruits of your labour. No? Oh, forget it. After all that, it’s time to join our local guide in his family home. Then we’ll head back to the city to relax or take a dip in the pool, before a sunset BBQ this evening. You’ve got a big day ahead tomorrow, so once you’ve had your fill, we’d advise you get some kip and sleep off today’s mangover (that’s ‘mango hangover’ for any newbs).

Day 16 Sunrise At Angkor Wat

Rise and shine people. You won’t forget today in a hurry. It’s your final day in Siem Reap, and you’re off to visit the world’s biggest religious monument. Say (Angkor) waaaat? Yup, you heard us right. We’re off to Angkor Wat, a vast 500 acre site built in the image of Mount Meru, the crib of the Hindu gods. Now, we don’t like to jinx it by saying this’ll be one of the most amazing experiences of your life but...well...this will be one of the most amazing experiences of your life. We’ll arrive at the UNESCO Heritage site just in time for sunrise. Get your cameras at the ready. After all, if you don’t put it on the ‘gram, did you even go? #DefinitelyNoFilterNeeded. The afternoon is yours to explore Siem Reap, call loved ones to chew their ears off about your day, or take a much needed nap before our last night out on Pub Street. Chant after us: PUB STREET! PUB STREET! PUB ST- no? OK, maybe later.

Day 17 Siem Reap to Phnom Penh

Wave goodbye to Siem Reap and head towards Cambodia’s capital city, Phnom Penh. After last night’s antics, you’ll probably need some sleep, so lie back, close your lids and dribble on yourself whilst we all take photos of you. Kidding. We’re not that mean. Then, stop off in the countryside for a spot of lunch. Take in the beautiful surroundings and enjoy some delicious food. Get checked into our Phnom Penh accommodation and freshen up, ready to head out for an evening stroll and dinner at a riverside restaurant. Post-grub, get your bargain on at the night market or skip that and head straight to the bars in an attempt to get rid of that lingering tarantula taste.

Day 18 Tuk Tuk tour S21 and Killing Fields

If there’s one place every person should visit at some point in their life, it’s the Killing Fields, the location of a haunting Cambodian genocide that took the lives of millions, and the S21 Prison, where the Khmer Rouge held 17,000, very few of which survived. Its devastating effects can still be felt today. Your visit here won’t be easy. Nor pleasant. And it’s a story that will stay with you. But it’s a huge part of Cambodia’s recent history that shaped their modern culture, making it something anyone visiting should take the time to learn about. After our humbling visit, we’ll head back for dinner. It’s been an emotional day, so feel free to spend the rest of your evening in whatever way you like. Talk to your Tru buds, take a stroll. There’s no right way to feel after such an eye opening experience. You do you.

Day 19 Travel to Kampot

It’s day 6 and do you know what that means? No? Of course you don’t. Otherwise you’d be running the trip and we’d be reading this itinerary. Well, we’re off to the riverside town of Kampot, surrounded by stunning mountain views and picturesque scenery, where we’ll stop off at Arcadia Waterpark, a place of lush greenery, cool waters, slushy cocktails, rope swings and pontoons. The perfect place to let your hair down, and spend some quality time with your TruFamily. Because who doesn’t love a chilled afternoon? Y’know, like having a chilled sunbathe on the bank with a cold beer. Or a chilled meander in a kayak. Or a chilled paddle in the cool river. Or a chilled go on the ‘The Blob’, a giant inflatable that flings you into the air, before you crash into the water, lose your bikini bottoms, and emerge, spluttering. Like we said. Chilled.

Day 20 Pepper Plantations & Cooking Class

Today we’re off to a local pepper plantation where we’ll learn everything you need to know about farming the famous Kampot peppers. Will it be fun? You pepper believe it will be! Tell you what, you’ll soon realise you know absolutely nothing about peppers. After that intensive lesson, it’s time to use your newfound pepper knowledge to cook a delicious, traditional Khmer meal, learning from the best in a traditional Cambodian cooking class. Will you be able to get a job as the head chef of a Michelin star restaurant now? Probably not. But you’ve got a tasty, Cambodian meal in your repertoire that’ll blow anyone’s socks off back home. In the evening, we'll make our way in and out of the quaint streets lined by faded blue and green wood shutters, making your way down to the waterside for a dinner overlooking the river. Will it be anywhere near as good as the meal you cooked earlier? We all know the answer to that question.

Day 21 Travel to Koh Rong Samloem

Imagine this. You’re on a boat, the sun glistening off crystal waters, the cool breeze dancing through your hair. You look up. Your breath catches in your throat as you’re greeted by immaculate, white sands, quaint beach huts and boats bobbing lazily in the bay. You squint. There’s barely a soul for miles bar the occasional friendly local, and the trees that line the beach sway gently as though welcoming you to this secluded paradise. *Sigh* Dreamy, right? Well, no need to imagine it because that’s you. Today. Check in and spend the afternoon relaxing in hammocks over the ocean, jump on a paddleboard or rent a kayak, get your ass on the famous sea swings for that perfect Insta shot, or lay back on the idyllic beaches, cocktail in hand, watching the sun set over this tranquil island. They say you haven’t seen beauty ‘til you’ve seen this place, and they ain’t (Koh) Rong.

Day 22 Koh Rong Samloem

Aaaaaahhhhhhh. Today’s all about getting your chill on. Have a lie in, stroll along the warm sands, seek out a tasty local breakfast from a local vendor. No matter what you fancy doing, this time’s all yours. Island hop along the emerald waters Cambodia style in a traditional longtail boat (an absolute bargain at $10), soak up the rays, top up your tan, and have a pop at a traditional way of fishing. Show off your belly flopping skills, or find your inner Khmer-maid (see what we did there?), snorkel over the vibrant coral, and check out the various marine life that call the warm waters home. Then join the rest of us on a secluded beach for a delicious BBQ lunch. After you’ve eaten, head back to the island, chill, have a few cold beers, cut a few shapes, burst into song and dance and perform every song from the Greatest Showman for your Tru pals. Whatever you fancy. This is your last full day on this incredible island, so savour every. Last. Minute.

Day 23 Koh Rong/Phnom Penh

Today we bid farwell to paradise and the beauty that is Koh Rong Samleom! It's been an incredible few days of crystal clear waters and golden sandy beaches but it's time to head back to the city for one last BIG night out! We travel by boat and bus and check into our a hotel in Phnom Penh. We'lll have a few hours to chill before we get dressed and head out for the big finale! One last TruFam dinner together! We grab some food and see where the night takes us!

Day 24 Phnom Penh

Ah. The final day. *Sniffle* No, you’re crying. Well, as they say, all good things must come to an end and, after an epic 11 days, it’s time to say your goodbyes to your TruFamily and check out of the hotel. If your adventure’s continuing, our Travel Ninjas will be on hand to help with any onward travels plans you have. Fam, bring it in. It’s been unreal.

Day 25 Ho Chi Minh City

Today is the day you’ve been dreaming of. Ho Chi Minh’s international airport is where it all begins. Look out for the smiley driver with a great big TruTravels branded sign with your name on it, they’re with us. They’ll whisk you off to our hotel in the city, somewhere you’ll look back on years from now as the moment you first met your TruFam, that’s what we call our tour groups for reasons that become very obvious. It’s the start of a beautiful friendship with your group, your Travel Ninja and Vietnam as a whole. Your Vietnam Explorer is finally here!

Day 26 Ho Chi Minh City

It’s your first full day in one of the world’s most beautiful and hospitable countries. We start in the iconic and historic city formerly known as Saigon. In spite of the universal welcoming vibes and chirpy nature of the locals, Vietnam’s troubled past is well documented and after taking a walking tour of some of Ho Chi Minh’s most notable spots. It’s time to be astonished at what happened here 50 years ago in the Ho Chi Minh War Museum, which sees half a million visitors a year. Learn the history of the Vietnamese war which spanned over 20 years and still impacts many lives today. We take a walk and view the incredible Independence Palace before continuing on to the cathedral and post office. We finish up by heading to the local food market to try some of the best food around, the local cuisine! Afterwards we’ll freshen up for dinner, drinks and getting to know your TruFam in the busy city of Ho Chi Minh!

Day 27 Ho Chi Minh City/Hoi An

Rise and shine TruTraveller we’ve got a big day ahead! Wear some comfortable shoes as today we’re heading to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Built in the late 1940’s and spreading over nearly 250km, the Cu Chi Tunnels were used for a number of reasons including housing troops, transporting communications and supplies and even laying booby traps before returning to safety inside the tunnels. Don’t be fooled, although the operations of these tunnels sound seamless, some tunnels were so small they were around 80cm wide and 80cm high, meaning for the average human almost impossible to get through. We’ll experience the tunnels up close and personal and explore some of the underground hiding holes. This experience is one not to be missed and gives a real insight into the struggle and challenges of life only 70ish years ago. Early afternoon we’ll head back and grab some lunch before having a relaxing afternoon. In the evening we’ll head to the airport and head to our next destination - Hoi An!

Day 28 Hoi An

Today we wake up in the scenic town of Hoi An. A magical place in Vietnam known for it’s beauty and fun fact is also a World Heritage Site! Hoi An is probably most famous for the Vietnamese lanterns that give the town a surreal, tranquil glow each night. You want one don’t you? Let’s go one better and teach you how to make one! Choose your silk, and learn from the locals on how to turn one of these iconic lanterns into your own one. Don’t worry if you’re shit at arts and crafts, you can always leave the lantern in the dark to hide your shame. Another famous activity in Hoi An is the ability to have clothes made, styled, designed and created exactly how you want them. We visit a local tailors where we’ll see how they create incredible clothing and designs. They'll also gift us a one of a kind reusable and sustainable TruTravels tote bag made from the cut off fabrics. An amazing life long gift from the TruFam and perfect for onward adventures. Afterwards we head to Thinhs, an amazing local coffee shop owned by a Tru friend Tinh who grows his own coffee beans and has some of the best Vietnamese coffee in the country! (In our opinion ;)). We’ll learn the process of developing and roasting the beans before trying our very own coffee! The rest of the afternoon is free to explore as we please!

Day 29 Hoi An

Today is a free day so snooze as long as you like. Walk alongside the calm river and take in the relaxing ambience of this quieter part of Vietnam or perhaps head to the famous Ba Na Hills, Golden Bridge. It’s an Instagram favourite! With winding roads and small bridges, it’s easy to see why Hoi An is a favourite among travellers so get out and explore! May we suggest a local beach club for sunset cocktails? Go on, you know you want too!

Day 30 Hoi An

Today, we’d give a fun level of 10000/10 and we’re not just saying that. First off we’re taking a morning bike ride through the local countryside and village before arriving at our destination for the afternoon! We’re going to Coconut Woods, which despite the name is actually on 7 hectares (don’t ask us what a hectare is, it might be some sort of squirrel) of water. Ever heard of a basket boat? Well you’re about to have your first experience of one and you are going to laugh yourself senseless on one of these mad cap traditional Vietnamese vessels that have been used to crab fish for centuries. We’ll glide through stunning surroundings before slipping, sliding and splashing a little too much as we show how basket boats are best used. It might not be as relaxing as you’re envisioning but it's sure to get the blood pumping. You’ll work up an appetite and get you nice and hungry for a culinary experience and a half before we stop for some delicious food with the local family. This evening will be our last in Hoi An (until you come visit again) so let’s make it a big one with dinner and drinks on the boardwalk.

Day 31 Hoi An/Huế

Don’t let the name fool you, we're doing the legendary Hai Van Pass, made famous by Top Gear in open top war jeeps not a van, yeah! Leaving Hoi An will be emotional but once we get out on the open road you’ll see some of the most spectacular scenery anywhere in Vietnam on the way to the city of Hue. We’ll stop on the way for some snaps, some lunch and maybe even a cheeky dip in the tropical waters before reaching the idyllic Hue. Pack a swimsuit! Today is spent, wind in hair, music blasting and driving along this world famous epic route. A once in a lifetime activity ya feel? We’ll arrive late in the afternoon and it’s hotel check-in and chill! Later in the day we’ll be heading out to explore Hue’s nightlife where we’re all about the local beers, the rice wine and dancing the night away. Good food and delicious drinks pending.

Day 32 Huế

Did you know Hue was once the home of Emperors? The remnants of their reign can be seen all over the city, none more so than within the walls of the Imperial City itself. So today we’re immersing ourselves in it all. We head along the perfume river and arrive at a tranquil garden. Sit back and relax as it’s here we’ll be spending the day! Are you ready to cook up a storm? We’ll be learning how to cook the delicious Vietnamese food we’ve been devouring for the past week and have loved so very much. No pressure TruFam. Slice and dice away and enjoy every bite of your hard work culinary masterpiece. It’s been an incredible day so we wave goodbye to Hue and head onto our next destination - Ninh Binh!

Day 33 Huế/Ninh Bình

Ninh Binh is known as the Halong Bay on land and for good reason, it’s breathtakingly beautiful. We arrive and jump aboard small boats and paddle through untouched caves and around small surrounding islands. Look around and you’ll see emerald green forestry and rice paddies galore. Absolutely stunning. Afterwards we’ll head to Tam Coc valley, here you’ll find limestone hills dotted amongst the luscious trees. One of the best nature destinations in all of Vietnam and 1 not on the typical touristy trail. The afternoon is free to chill but if the TruFam are up for it, we can hop on bikes and cycle around, stopping for water breaks and those all important insta shots. If you didn’t take a pic did you even go right? We’ve saved the best till last and around mid afternoon we head to the epic Hang Mua viewpoint, with around 500 steps to the top, you know it’s going to be incredible. After updating our instastory, sending 100 pictures in your WhatsApp chat and really taking in the magic of Vietnam we head back for dinners, beers and an incredible sunset over the mountains!

Day 34 Ninh Bình/Hạ Long Bay

Today we’re going to arguably the most iconic place in Asia - this is Halong Bay and it’s almost certainly been your screensaver at some point in time. A bright green sea, 1,600 limestone islands dotted throughout the bay, this is a labyrinth of genuine paradise and wonder. We leave Ninh Binh early in the morning before travelling to Halong Bay and joining our boat for a night under the stars. Lunch is served to the most breathtaking backdrop imaginable after we’ve boarded and settled in. Today we set sail into paradise, the POA? Kayaking, viewpoints, beaches, the lot! We told you your stay in Halong Bay would stay with you forever. After a day on the water, we head back aboard and learn how to make mouth wateringly tasty spring rolls. The evening is spent watching the sun go down on the open deck, looking up at the stars and sharing a beer or two with your TruFam. Does it get better than this?

Day 35 Hạ Long Bay/Hanoi

Wake up, rub your eyes, no you’re really here. Take in your surroundings before heading onto the open deck for some breakfast and a large coffee. Huge limestone rock formations in amongst teal waters and luscious green forestry surround us. There’s no place in the world like Halong Bay, so sit back, relax and enjoy the 360 degree views. We’ll spend the afternoon relaxing and swimming before we say goodbye and make our way to Vietnam’s capital - Hanoi! The late afternoon is free so head out and explore! In the evening we meet up for dinner, drinks and head out to see Hanoi’s incredible nightlife!

Day 36 Hanoi

It’s been 12 days since this wonderful adventure through Vietnam began and by now you’ll have covered over 1,600km of great times, great laughs and great people. Just because the capital of Hanoi is the last stop of your Vietnam Explorer, these dreamy couple of weeks are anything but finished. Hanoi is chaotic, vibrant an absolute experience in itself. Time to explore, right? But not before sampling one of Vietnam’s favourite beveragino’s, a traditional egg coffee. Just trust us they’re pretty good. We’ll head for a demonstration on how this delicacy is made. Do they use real eggs? Who knows. The rest of the day is all yours to explore. Whatever side of Hanoi you like, whether that’s the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi’s gorgeous Opera House or the countless other mega snappable spots in the city. It’s an incredible day. In the evening we get dressed up for our large BIG night out with the TruFam!

Day 37 Hanoi

It’s a day for sore heads and emotional goodbyes as we’re at the end of the tour. Fear not though, this may not be the end of your adventure and if not our Travel Ninjas know Southeast Asia like the back of their hand and can advise you on what and where to next. If it is time to depart this part of the world then allow yourself to be sad about it, but promise us you’ll come back for more? It’s a very easy promise to keep in truth. You’re now a lifelong member of the TruFam and by now, you’ll know how big a deal that is. See you soon!