Running fast into the future. In Vietnam, the 21st century coexists with traditional rice fields, the junks of Halong Bay and vegetation ready to fill any empty space.
A strip of land washed by the South China Sea stretching 2,400 km between the Mekong Delta and the mountains on the Chinese border.
Our range of trips to Vietnam this summer 2023, brings together everything travellers imagine about Southeast Asia: a true postcard from the other side of the world. But Vietnam also means cutting-edge technology and bustling activity 24 hours a day: a world far removed from rural areas.
Hanoi, capital of Vietnam, is the second largest city, with over three million inhabitants, after Ho Chi Minh City. Peaceful and welcoming, with lakes and tree-shaded streets ideal for walking, it is nevertheless busy from early morning until late evening.
In our trip to Vietnam, we will visit the most interesting places in the city: the Ba Dinh square, mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh, Tran Quoc pagoda, Quan Thanh temple on West Lake, the temple of Literature and we will also make a walking tour of the old quarter.
We will visit the markets of Bac Ha and Cao Son, where each ethnic group sells textiles, bamboo crafts and animals amid constant bargaining.
Located near the Chinese border, the valley of Sapa A magnificent place of evergreen mountains, rice terraces and ethnic minorities expressing their identity through colourful clothing and ornaments. Sapa stands above the river Muong Ha, at an altitude of 1,700 metres. It is surrounded by an amphitheatre of shaded mountains belonging to the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, dominated by the summit of the Fan Si Pan.
We discover Halong Bay aboard a boat modelled on traditional Indochinese junks. Sleeping on board lets us enjoy the best hours of the day. Our kayaking excursion suits everyone and lets us explore the bay's labyrinth of islets at our own pace.
Hoi An, the most picturesque city of Vietnam. Its spectacular UNESCO World Heritage old town has made it one of the most photogenic corners of Southeast Asia. Known as “Faifo” to the first Portuguese arrivals, it has a special historic charm. We have a free day here to visit the temple of My Son. Here we can taste Vietnamese cuisine or even have a suit made to measure.
Ho Chi Minh, is a modern, constantly changing city. With more than 4,000,000 inhabitants, it is the country’s economic and financial centre. Rivers of motorbikes ridden by young people weave through the central streets.
The delta is spectacular throughout, with several areas to visit. The river reaches into the heart of the Delta: The Vinh Long/Can Tho area, with markets, protected areas and the main settlements.
Our Vietnam trip ends at Cambodia’s Angkor temples, a magical place that leaves a lasting impression.