Essentials of Vietnam
From cultural discoveries to breathtaking natural wonders, this itinerary is designed to inspire every type of traveller. Each experience has been carefully selected to offer meaningful insight, memorable stories, and a deeper connection to the places you visit.
Fly from UK to Hanoi.
Arrive Hanoi in the morning. Meeting and assistance on arrival by our representative and transfer to Soleil Boutique Hotel for 2 nights. Afternoon at leisure.
Morning explore both famous and hidden gems of the city. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and his simple stilt house, then see the historic One-Pillar Pagoda. Continue to the Temple of Literature, built in 1070 and revered as Vietnam’s first university – a symbol of learning and culture. Afternoon at leisure.
Drive to Ha Long Bay and board a charming, crafted junk for a 1-night Halong and Lan Ha Bay cruise. Lunch on board, then relax! Overnight in a private deluxe cabin aboard the Au Co Cruise.
Start the day with an optional Tai Chi session on the sundeck, before exploring one of the bay’s caves. Return to the ship for brunch before disembarking and then drive to Hanoi Airport for the flight to Hue. Met on arrival and transferred to the hotel. The Pilgrimage Hue for 2 nights.
Begin with a walk through the Purple Forbidden City, once home to Vietnam’s emperors, to explore its rich royal heritage. After a refreshing drink at a local café, take a traditional rickshaw ride around the Imperial City – see monuments and lakes enroute. Continue to Kim Long village, the former home of royal mandarins. Visit a local family for a delicious home cooked meal. End the tour with a scenic boat ride on the Perfume River before returning to the hotel.
After breakfast drive south to Hoi An via the scenic Hai Van Pass, with mountain and sea views along the way. Check-in at Allgero Hoi An for 2 nights. In the afternoon, on a guided walk through Hoi An’s delightful old town, explore its landmarks and picturesque, yellow-walled streets.
At leisure.
Morning transfer to Danang airport and board a flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Met on arrival and transfer to hotel. Stay at Silverland May Hotel for 3 nights.
Morning journey to a tranquil corner of the Mekong Delta. On a private boat explore local life, visit a small factory, and enjoy lunch at a guesthouse on a quiet island. In the afternoon, cycle through orchards, visit a honey farm, sample Sâm jelly, and glide through mangroves on a sampan before returning to the city.
Embark on an early morning speed boat ride on the Saigon River to the Cu Chi Tunnels, 70 km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City. Watch the river communities go about their daily life – before exploring the famous tunnel network. Crawl through the underground passages and personally experience the remarkable resourcefulness of the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War.
Later explore Ho Chi Minh City’s history and culture. Start with the War Remnants Museum, then stroll to the pleasant Book Street for a coffee and local literature. Continue the guided walk past iconic colonial landmarks, including the Central Post Office, Continental Hotel, Opera House, and City Hall, before returning to the hotel.
Transfer to the airport to board flight back home
Our South East Asia itineraries combine iconic highlights with authentic, lesser-known experiences. Travel seamlessly between destinations, guided by local expertise and careful planning. From single-country journeys to multi-destination adventures, each holiday is designed to offer depth, comfort, and a genuine sense of place.
Planning a journey through South East Asia should feel simple and well-informed. The FAQs below provide practical travel guidance for UK travellers, covering visa requirements, passport validity, health considerations, and general entry advice to help you prepare with confidence.
Visa requirements vary by country. Many South East Asian destinations, including Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Vietnam, offer visa-free entry or visas on arrival for UK passport holders for short stays. Some countries require an e-visa arranged in advance.
Length of stay depends on the country visited, typically ranging from 14 to 90 days. Entry duration is confirmed on arrival by local immigration authorities.
Yes. South East Asia is very popular with first-time travellers due to its welcoming culture, excellent hospitality, well-developed tourist infrastructure, and good value for money.
Each country has its own currency. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, but cash is recommended for rural areas, markets, and smaller establishments.
South East Asia is generally considered safe for tourists. Normal travel precautions should be taken, particularly in busy urban areas and when travelling independently.
No mandatory vaccinations are required for entry to most countries. However, travellers are advised to be up to date with routine vaccinations and seek medical advice before travel, particularly for longer or multi-country trips.
Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended due to the warm climate. Modest dress is advised when visiting temples and religious sites, with shoulders and knees covered.
The best time to visit varies by country but is generally during the dry season, typically between November and March. Some destinations are enjoyable year-round depending on travel style and region.
Yes. Travel between countries is well established, with frequent flights, ferries, and overland routes making multi-destination itineraries easy to arrange.
Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended, covering medical treatment, activities, cancellations, and delays.
Yes. The region offers a wide range of experiences suitable for families, couples, and honeymooners, from cultural discovery and wildlife encounters to beach relaxation and luxury stays.
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