Just as Vietnamese cuisine centres on the philosophy of yin and yang, so this journey is one of balance. We complement market visits and Vietnamese cooking classes with lavish meals at some of the country’s best restaurants. We combine touring of historical and cultural sites with free time to explore independently. We begin our culinary journey in the north and discover Hanoi’s diverse cuisine; from tasty street food to fine French dining. We enjoy a cooking class and later experience the magic of Halong Bay, complete with a delicious seafood lunch. From Hanoi we venture south to Saigon via the history-soaked streets of Hue and Hoi An. Throughout this journey we stay in Vietnam’s finest hotels. These include Hanoi’s grand, colonial-era Sofitel Metropole and the Caravelle, Saigon’s five-star luxury hotel.

A Tale of Three Cities gives travellers a wonderful opportunity to gain insights into three of Asia’s most fascinating cities – the rich history of Hanoi, the vibrant energy of Saigon, and Siem Reap; home to the temples of Angkor. Throughout this journey we enjoy the atmosphere and comfort of the region’s finest colonial-era hotels. Our journey begins in Vietnam’s gracious capital, Hanoi. Here we stay at the historic Sofitel Metropole, centrally located near the city’s vibrant heart – Hoan Kiem Lake. We take time to explore this charming city, both in cyclos and on foot. We also spend an afternoon cruising throug the striking limestone islands at nearby Halong Bay. Our journey continues south to Saigon. On arrival we transfer to the Caravelle Hotel, which is well located in the city’s centre. From here we discover Saigon and surrounding sites, including the amazing Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta. We also have a hands-on experience with Vietnamese cuisine at a half-day cooking school. Our journey moves into Cambodia and on arrival in Siem Reap we stay at the recently refurbished Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor. From this beautiful hotel we explore the rich history and breathtaking wonderment of Angkor’s temples. A Tale of Three Cities is a special journey delving into many aspects of Asia including history, culture, landscapes and mouth-watering cuisine.

Indochina is an incredibly diverse and fascinating region rich in history and culture and home to inspiring landscapes and welcoming people. We combine our Temples of Angkor, Highlights of Vietnam and Highlights of Laos journeys to create this overview of Indochina’s gems. We begin in Cambodia, a country of dramatic contrasts – from the tragedy of Tuol Sleng Museum to the splendour of the Royal Palace and Angkorian temples. We will also experience the grandeur of the French colonial period and stay in two hotels restored to their former glory by the Raffles Group. From Cambodia we travel to Vietnam – a country that was once associated with the horror of war but is beginning to be better recognised for her lush landscapes, friendly people and sumptuous cuisine. We travel northwards from Saigon to Hanoi, taking in all the highlights and amazing diversity in between while staying in a range of boutique and luxury hotels. End the journey in the relaxed, landlocked country of Laos where meandering rivers, pristine forests and friendly locals await – a fitting conclusion to an unforgettable journey of discovery across three enchanting nations.

The mighty Mekong River commences its epic journey from the heights of the Tibetan Plateau and carves its way through China, Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and eventually Vietnam. It is the lifeblood of the entire region and nowhere is this more apparent than in South Vietnam’s fertile Mekong Delta. The Temples of Angkor in Cambodia are quite simply one of the most amazing places on earth. Combine these two experiences together and what you have is the foundation for a truly unforgettable journey. Beginning in Saigon, we explore this vibrant city before heading south to the Mekong Delta. Here we discover the region by boat, visit floating markets and witness firsthand the lifestyle of the locals. From Chau Doc we take the remarkable Mekong River boat journey to Cambodia’s capital, Phnom Penh. After exploring this charming riverside capital we drive through pretty Cambodian countryside to Siem Reap, where we spend a few days among the magical Temples of Angkor – a fitting end to a truly unique journey! Your experience of the region is heightened by our carefully selected accommodation, including the stylish Victoria Hotels in the Mekong Delta and the luxurious Raffles properties in Cambodia.

From the dynamic thrust of Saigon to the timeless landscapes and villages of the countryside, Vietnam is a country of seemingly endless diversity. Similarly, Vietnamese culture echoes this sentiment. The contrast of foreign influences, wars and colonisation with distinctive local customs are proof of this. Our Vietnam Discovery is a journey of contrasts aimed to showcase the diversity and complexity of this enchanting nation. From bustling Saigon to orchards in the Mekong Delta; from mountains in Dalat to tropical beaches of Nha Trang; from enchanting Hoi An to historical Hanoi and finally, majestic Halong Bay. Throughout this journey we experience Vietnamese hospitality at its best, with our selection of splendid hotel choices along the way. Feel the history within Saigon’s landmark Caravelle and Hanoi’s Sofitel Metropole hotels. Experience colonial grandeur at the Sofitel Dalat Palace. Soak up seaside splendour at Nha Trang’s Ana Mandara Resort, complete with your own private beach on the shores of the South China Sea. Each hotel is a reflection of its natural environment. This, coupled with high standards of service and comfort, makes each destination a unique experience.

Highlights of Vietnam is the ideal journey for those wanting to experience the diversity of this wonderful country in style and within a limited time frame. This journey allows us to soak up the youthful dynamism of Saigon, stroll the charming streets of Hoi An, immerse ourselves in the ancient rhythms of Vietnam’s countryside, relax within the mystical vista of Halong Bay…and so much more! We fly between major centres, allowing more time to savour our experiences in each place. We combine air travel with spectacular drives through beautiful rural scenery, including the dramatic Hai Van Pass between Hoi An and Hue. This balance provides ample opportunity to cover distance and experience the timeless imagery of Vietnam’s rice paddies and street life. Throughout our journey we stay in the country’s best hotels, from Saigon’s historic Caravelle Hotel on Dong Khoi Street to Hanoi’s Sofitel Metropole, whose former guests include Charlie Chaplin, Jane Fonda and Bill Clinton. As with any journey to Vietnam the cuisine is a highlight to be savoured. From fresh seafood to melt-in-your mouth croissants, Vietnam offers plenty of opportunities to sample local fare.

Immerse yourself in rich history and culture. Be awed by stunning natural scenery. Savour the flavours and freshness of delicious Vietnamese cuisine. Enjoy a selection of Asia’s most atmospheric hotels. The Vietnam Experience is all that and more. From the laidback river lifestyle of the mighty Mekong to the spectacular mountain scenery of Sapa, this journey encompasses the very best that Vietnam has to offer. We start our journey in South Vietnam where we experience the life pulse of Saigon. From our base at the landmark Caravelle Hotel we travel to the Cu Chi Tunnels, where we gain a true sense of the resilience of the Vietnamese people. We travel north to experience the old-world atmosphere of charming Hoi An. Our journey continues through the stunning coastal landscapes of Central Vietnam to Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital. We fly to Hanoi where we soak up the historic atmosphere of Hanoi’s Sofitel Metropole Hotel, just minutes away from the city’s vibrant heart – Hoan Kiem Lake. We travel on the stylish Victoria Express train to Sapa where we experience the warm hospitality and simplicity of Vietnam’s colourful hilltribe people. We complete our journey on return to Hanoi with an opportunity to relax and reflect on this unforgettable and truly diverse Vietnamese experience.

Highlights of Vietnam is the ideal journey for those wanting to experience the diversity of this wonderful country in style and within a limited time frame. This journey allows us to soak up the youthful dynamism of Saigon, stroll the charming streets of Hoi An, immerse ourselves in the ancient rhythms of Vietnam’s countryside, relax within the mystical vista of Halong Bay…and so much more! We fly between major centres, allowing more time to savour our experiences in each place. We combine air travel with spectacular drives through beautiful rural scenery, including the dramatic Hai Van Pass between Hoi An and Hue. This balance provides ample opportunity to cover distance and experience the timeless imagery of Vietnam’s rice paddies and street life. Throughout our journey we stay in the country’s best hotels, from Saigon’s historic Caravelle Hotel on Dong Khoi Street to Hanoi’s Sofitel Metropole, whose former guests include Charlie Chaplin, Jane Fonda and Bill Clinton. As with any journey to Vietnam the cuisine is a highlight to be savoured. From fresh seafood to melt-in-your mouth croissants, Vietnam offers plenty of opportunities to sample local fare.

From the dynamic thrust of Saigon to the timeless landscapes and villages of the countryside, Vietnam is a country of seemingly endless diversity. Similarly, Vietnamese culture echoes this sentiment. The contrast of foreign influences, wars and colonisation with distinctive local customs are proof of this. Our Vietnam Discovery is a journey of contrasts aimed to showcase the diversity and complexity of this enchanting nation. From bustling Saigon to orchards in the Mekong Delta; from mountains in Dalat to tropical beaches of Nha Trang; from enchanting Hoi An to historical Hanoi and finally, majestic Halong Bay. Throughout this journey we experience Vietnamese hospitality at its best, with our selection of splendid hotel choices along the way. Feel the history within Saigon’s landmark Caravelle and Hanoi’s Sofitel Metropole hotels. Experience colonial grandeur at the Sofitel Dalat Palace. Soak up seaside splendour at Nha Trang’s Ana Mandara Resort, complete with your own private beach on the shores of the South China Sea. Each hotel is a reflection of its natural environment. This, coupled with high standards of service and comfort, makes each destination a unique experience.

Immerse yourself in rich history and culture. Be awed by stunning natural scenery. Savour the flavours and freshness of delicious Vietnamese cuisine. Enjoy a selection of Asia’s most atmospheric hotels. The Vietnam Experience is all that and more. From the laidback river lifestyle of the mighty Mekong to the spectacular mountain scenery of Sapa, this journey encompasses the very best that Vietnam has to offer. We start our journey in South Vietnam where we experience the life pulse of Saigon. From our base at the landmark Caravelle Hotel we travel to the Cu Chi Tunnels, where we gain a true sense of the resilience of the Vietnamese people. We travel north to experience the old-world atmosphere of charming Hoi An. Our journey continues through the stunning coastal landscapes of Central Vietnam to Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital. We fly to Hanoi where we soak up the historic atmosphere of Hanoi’s Sofitel Metropole Hotel, just minutes away from the city’s vibrant heart – Hoan Kiem Lake. We travel on the stylish Victoria Express train to Sapa where we experience the warm hospitality and simplicity of Vietnam’s colourful hilltribe people. We complete our journey on return to Hanoi with an opportunity to relax and reflect on this unforgettable and truly diverse Vietnamese experience.