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Vietnam adventure holiday

country:Vietnam
location:Mekong Delta, North Vietnam, South Vietnam 
trip type: A small group adventure.
departures:2009: 11 Nov, 18 Nov, 22 Nov, 25 Nov, 29 Nov, 2 Dec, 6 Dec, 9 Dec, 13 Dec, 16 Dec, 20 Dec, 23 Dec, 27 Dec
2010: 3 Jan, 6 Jan, 10 Jan, 17 Jan, 20 Jan, 24 Jan, 31 Jan, 3 Feb, 7 Feb, 10 Feb, 14 Feb, 21 Feb, 24 Feb, 28 Feb, 3 Mar, 7 Mar, 14 Mar
price:From £810 (15 days) excluding flights, local payment US $300. We can arrange flights from the UK. All departure dates are guaranteed
vouchers:Gift vouchers can be used with this holiday
read 2 travellers reviews
the amazing things you'll be doing
Cu Chi Tunnels, Mekong Delta homestay, Nha Trang, Hoi An, Hue, hilltribes, Water Puppets, Halong Bay.

From south to north, Vietnam is a kaleidoscope of people and landscapes. Imagine exploring vibrant Hanoi with its beautiful lakes and boulevards while staying in the capital's most charming hotel.

The excitement of adventure travel isn't forgotten and what better way to meet the locals than to be their guests. Historical temples, spectacular scenery, delicious banquets and smiling faces all await you in Vietnam.
day-by-day itinerary
Day 1-2:Ho Chi Minh City. The daily life of Ho Chi Minh City is played out among the pagodas, French-style cafes and streets teeming with motorcycles. Explore the War Remnants Museum, local markets and the extraordinary Cu Chi Tunnels.
Day 3-4:Mekong Delta. The 'rice bowl' of Vietnam is famous for its tropical fruits and flowers - and of course rice. Cruise among floating markets and visit some cottage industries as we travel by private boat through the maze of waterways. Mix with the locals on an overnight homestay.
Day 5-6:Nha Trang. With a harmonious blend of mountains, islands and beautiful white sand beaches, Nha Trang boasts one of Vietnam's most attractive settings. Take a boat ride to nearby islands to swim, snorkel and savour delicious seafood.
Day 7-9:Hoi An. A major trading port during the 16th and 17th centuries, Hoi An still retains a distinct old world feel. There are many optional activities here, from a cooking course to riding a bicycle to Cua Dai Beach or, for the early risers, a trip to the morning market to see locals haggling over fish, spices and vegetables is an incredible spectacle.
Day 10-11:Hue. The former imperial capital of Hue is a quiet city renowned for its magnificent architecture. Take a guided tour through the Citadel, royal tombs, pagodas and temples, many of which were built during the reign of the Nguyen Dynasty.
Day 12:Hanoi. Despite the throngs of bicycles, cyclos and motorbikes, Hanoi retains its French provincial air. Visit Ho Chi Minh's mausoleum, the Temple of Literature and the Fine Arts Museum before an evening water puppet performance.
Day 13-14:Halong Bay. Soak up the mystical atmosphere of Halong Bay on board a private boat. The bay holds more than 3,000 limestone islands that tower over the emerald waters. There are innumerable beaches and grottoes to explore.
Day 15:Hanoi. Back in vibrant Hanoi, our Vietnamese experience comes to an end.
travellers' tales
Vietnam was amazing. The trip really opened my eyes to a totally different culture. I have been to South East Asia before but I had not seen such poverty as that of Vietnam. Yet, the Vietnamese people were so happy & friendly and such hard workers. (more)
small group adventure holiday
This is a 'small group adventure' - on our group trips you'll be with a maximum of 11 like minded travellers and you'll have a group leader with you. Whether you are travelling alone or with friends it's good value, and a great way to meet new people! While itineraries are pre-planned there is some flexibility and you'll have plenty of privacy. This trip will appeal to travellers of all ages who enjoy meeting people from other parts of the world as well as seeing new places! (more)

Because of our small group size, we're able to guarantee departures for all of our trips. Once you have booked and paid your deposit, your trip is guaranteed to go!
highly commended
This tourism business was Highly Commended in our 2007 Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Awards - the largest awards of their kind in the world, and organised by responsibletravel.com in association with The Times, World Travel Market and Geographical Magazine, of the Royal Geographical Society.

Since 2004, the Awards has recognised individuals, companies and organisations in travel making a big commitment to the culture and economies of local communities and helping to conserve biodiversity.
how this holiday makes a difference
This trip introduces travellers to the wonderful country of Vietnam, taking in all the highlights with the added comfort of superior hotels. In true Intrepid style there are also plenty of opportunities to interact with the locals and learn about their way of life.

In the southern Mekong Delta region the group stays overnight with a local family. This is a unique experience that allows travellers to experience the local culture first-hand. There's a visit to local cottage industries where travellers can purchase locally made goods, thereby supporting the communities. There is also a visit to a snake farm to learn about this wildlife.

In Hanoi the itinerary includes a performance of the famous Water Puppets. Nearby Halong Bay is also a major highlight with beautiful natural scenery.

The north west highlands allow full appreciation of Vietnam's stunning natural landscape as the group walks through the local countryside. One night is spent in a White Thai village house on stilts - a very special experience that affords observation of the local lifestyle of these minority people.

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