Day 1 : Arrival in Saigon
Upon your arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, commonly known as Saigon among locals, you'll be warmly greeted and swiftly escorted to your hotel for check-in.
This vibrant metropolis, pulsating with commerce, finance, culture, and tourism, stands in stark contrast to its northern counterpart. Here, the streets teem with bikes and motorbikes, while the air buzzes with the energy of countless shopping districts and quaint sidewalk cafes.
If time allows, we'll take a leisurely stroll through downtown, immersing ourselves in the rich tapestry of local life.
Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 2 : Saigon Half-Day City Tour + Cu Chi Tunnels
Today, we embark on a half-day journey to uncover the enchanting allure of Ho Chi Minh City. Many of the city's notable attractions lie within proximity to the bustling town center. Our excursion begins with a glimpse of history as we pass by the erstwhile American Embassy, now a relic of wartime memories, en route to the Reunification Palace. This iconic structure once served as the official residence of the President of Southern Vietnam until the fateful end of April 1975.
Adjacent to the palace stand remarkable examples of French colonial architecture, including the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral and the venerable Old Saigon Post Office. Our exploration continues with visits to the serene Jade Emperor Pagoda and the poignant War Remnants Museum, where vivid images from turbulent conflicts resonate deeply.
Concluding our sightseeing odyssey, we meander through the bustling aisles of Ben Thanh Market, a retail haven offering an eclectic array of goods for sale.
In the afternoon, we venture approximately 30 kilometers northwest of Ho Chi Minh City to the quaint town of Cu Chi. Renowned for its historic significance, Cu Chi served as a pivotal base during the Tet Offensive of 1968. The awe-inspiring Cu Chi tunnels, an extensive underground network stretching over 200 kilometers, attained legendary status during the American War. Delving into this subterranean labyrinth, we marvel at the ingenuity of its construction, featuring living quarters, weapon factories, field hospitals, command centers, and accommodations.
Our excursion includes a visit to an exposition hall and an expanded section of the tunnels, offering a glimpse into the clandestine existence of those who dwelled below. For those seeking an immersive experience, opportunities abound to test their marksmanship at the nearby rifle range, firing rounds from an AK47 or MK16.
Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
Meals : Breakfast
.Day 3 : Saigon to Hanoi by Flight
After breakfast get transferred to Ho Chi Minh City airport to catch a flight to Hanoi.
Upon touchdown at Noi Bai Airport, our dedicated tour guide will be there to greet you, ushering you into a world of timeless elegance. From there, you'll be whisked away to your hotel in Hanoi for a seamless check-in experience, ensuring your transition to this enchanting city is as smooth as possible.
Overnight in Hanoi.
Meals : Breakfast
Day 4 : Hanoi – Ha Long Bay
07:30-08:00: Following a delightful breakfast at your hotel, you'll be picked up from Hanoi Old Quarter and transported to Ha Long Bay.
12:00: Warmly welcomed by receptionists at the Hạ Long International Harbour.
12:30: Embark on your cruise adventure as the captain greets you with a tender welcome. Enjoy a refreshing welcome drink, a safety briefing, and seamlessly check into your cabin.
12:45: Set sail from Hạ Long International Harbour and embark on a journey to discover the mesmerizing beauty of Halong Bay, a natural wonder of the world. Indulge in a delicious lunch featuring special dishes as you cruise past iconic limestone karsts.
14:45: Pause at Bồ Nâu Cave, the heart of the world natural heritage site. Transfer by tender to explore the breathtaking Suprise Cave, one of Halong Bay's most magnificent attractions.
15:45: Depart from Suprise Cave and venture by tender to Titov Island, named after Soviet astronaut Gherman Stepanovich Titov who visited in 1962. Take a refreshing swim, lounge on the beach, or ascend the island's rocky steps for panoramic views of the magical Halong Bay.
17:00: Return to the cruise and unwind while admiring the sunset from the sun deck. Sail to the overnight anchorage at Titop 587.
18:00-19:00: Delight in HAPPY HOUR with a special offer: Buy 1 drink, get 1 free (excluding wine).
18:30: Immerse yourself in a Vietnamese cooking demonstration.
19:00: Savor a delectable set menu dinner.
20:30: Evening activities await, including film entertainment and mini-games in the dining room, squid fishing, and optional massages (contact the cruise manager for service pricing).
Overnight in Ha Long Bay Cruise
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 05: Ha Long Bay – Hanoi
06:00: Rise to a morning call, should you desire one.
06:30: Engage in Tai Chi instructions on the sundeck for 30 minutes as we cruise towards Luồn Cave.
07:00: Delight in a light breakfast spread in the restaurant, featuring coffee, tea, fresh milk, water, pastries, bread, eggs, fresh fruit, and cereals.
08:00: Explore Luồn Cave by kayak, immersing yourself in the beauty of Halong Bay's endemic vegetation. Alternatively, glide through the cave on a traditionally woven (bamboo) boat, rowed by a local boatman.
09:00: Return to Athena Cruise, relax, and prepare to check out of your cabin. Kindly place your luggage outside the door, where our porters will collect and prepare them for you on the pier. The cruise then disembarks at Hạ Long International Harbour.
09:30: Complete the check-out process for your cabin. Indulge in a brunch buffet served in the dining room, and settle any outstanding bills thereafter.
10:45: Transfer by tender back to Hạ Long International Harbour for disembarkation. Bid farewell to our guests.
Overnight stay in Hanoi.
Meals : Breakfast and Lunch
Day 6: Hanoi Half Day City Walking Tour
Indulge in a hearty breakfast at your hotel to kickstart your day.
Embark on a guided tour starting from your hotel, where we'll first visit the revered Ho Chi Minh Complex. Stroll through the solemn grounds, paying homage at Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, the final resting place of the esteemed Vietnamese leader affectionately known as Uncle Ho. Explore President Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house, where he resided intermittently between 1958 and 1969, gaining insights into his humble lifestyle.
Next, we proceed to the serene One Pillar Pagoda, an architectural marvel featuring a pagoda and tower gracefully perched in the center of a tranquil square pond. Continuing our journey, we venture to the historic Temple of Literature, Vietnam's inaugural institution dedicated to Confucian teachings.
Conclude the morning tour with a leisurely stop at Hoan Kiem Lake, where the captivating Ngoc Son Temple awaits our exploration.
In the afternoon, treat yourself to a relaxing foot massage at a reputable spa in Hanoi, courtesy of our complimentary service. Unwind and rejuvenate as you pamper your senses in the tranquil ambiance of the spa.
Overnight stay in Hanoi.
Meals : Breakfast
DAY 7: Hanoi to Manila by Flight
After enjoying a delicious breakfast at your hotel, you will be chauffeured to the airport for your flight to Manila.
Upon your arrival in Manila, you'll be warmly welcomed by a local English-speaking driver who will assist you with your luggage. Relax as you're transferred to your hotel for check-in, where you'll settle in for a comfortable overnight stay.
Overnight in Manila.
Meals : Breakfast
Day 8 : Manila to Cebu by Flight
Indulge in a delightful breakfast at your hotel before we whisk you away to the airport for your flight to Cebu.
Upon landing in Cebu, you'll receive a warm welcome from our dedicated airport staff. Allow us to escort you to your hotel, where you'll seamlessly check-in and settle into your accommodations. With the formalities taken care of, the remainder of the day is yours to explore and unwind at your leisure.
Overnight in Cebu
Meals : Breakfast
Day 9 : Cebu and Mactan Twin City Tour
Before embarking on your City Tour, fuel up with a satisfying breakfast at your leisure. Your driver will arrive promptly at 9:00 AM for pick-up.
Upon meeting your English-speaking guide, you'll set out on the renowned Cebu Twin City Tour, a favorite among first-time travelers. Also referred to as the Cebu and Mactan Tour, this excursion showcases the rich cultural tapestry and historical significance of both cities.
Throughout the tour, you'll delve into Cebu City's storied past, visiting iconic landmarks such as Magellan’s Cross, Basilica del St. Nino (including the Church & Museum), Fort San Pedro, and the Cebu Heritage Monument. In the Mactan area, explore the Lapu-Lapu Monument, Magellan's Shrine, and even a Guitar Factory.
Following a fulfilling exploration, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant before returning to your hotel, where you can unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.
Overnight in Cebu.
Meals : Breakfast and Lunch
Day 10 : Cebu to Bohol by Ferry
Today, after breakfast, you will depart from Cebu. You will be transferred to Cebu Port for a ferry ride to Bohol, which will take approximately 2 hours. Upon arrival in Bohol, our driver will escort you to your hotel. Once you've checked in, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.
Overnight in Bohol.
Meals : Breakfast
Day 11 : : Bohol Countryside Tour
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Pick-up time is 9:00 AM, where you will meet and greet your English-speaking guide.
Today, immerse yourself in the beauty of Bohol's unspoiled countryside, where culture harmonizes with nature's gifts. Your tour will take you to Bohol's top attractions: the world-famous Chocolate Hills, the lush greenery of Bilar’s man-made forest, and the tarsiers, the world’s smallest primates. Enjoy a sumptuous lunch while cruising aboard a floating restaurant. The tour also includes visits to the historic Blood Compact Shrine and the centuries-old Baclayon Church & Museum, offering a glimpse into Bohol's rich history and culture.
Overnight in Bohol.
Meals : Breakfast and Lunch
Day 12 : Bohol to Manila by Flight
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Spend your morning at leisure until check-out. You will then be transferred to the airport for your flight to Manila. Upon arrival in Manila, you will be transferred to your hotel. Check-in and relax for the rest of the day.
Overnight in Manila.
Meals : Breakfast
Day 13 : Manila City Tour
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Pick-up time is 9:00 AM, where you will meet your English-speaking guide for a day tour of Manila, the capital of the Philippines.
Your first stop will be Intramuros, the historic walled city. You will then visit San Agustin Church, renowned for its intricate Baroque architecture. Next, explore Rizal Park, also known as Luneta Park, a significant historical site where public executions took place in the 1800s and where National Hero Jose Rizal was executed.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing your tour.
Tour highlights include: Rizal Park, Intramuros, Casa Manila, Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, and Manila Cathedral.
At 4:00 PM, you will be transferred back to your hotel.
Overnight in Manila.
Meals : Breakfast and Lunch
Day 14 : Departure Manila
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. As your vacation comes to an end today, take a walk or pick up some last-minute souvenirs before checking out. Our driver will assist you with your luggage and transfer you to the airport for your departure flight home.
Meals : Breakfast
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