Insights into Vietnam - Absolute Asia Tours

On arrival in Vietnam, you'll be met by your private guide and driven out of the city to Ky Son.

Upon reaching Ky Son, take a leisurely walk through the village, experiencing the traditional North Vietnamese culture. Join your host in preparing lunch. Choose a bike route, from 6-12 km on local trails, enjoying beautiful views, picking herbs, visiting temples, chatting with locals, and exploring the village market. Head back for a soothing herbal bath and a delicious home-cooked meal.

After your morning cup of tea, engage in traditional Yi Jin Jing exercises to invigorate your body and mind. Explore Ky Son Village, visiting the bee house, kindergarten, and local market. Opt to assist farmers with tasks like ploughing, marking rice beds, or harvesting, or attend a cookery class. Relax with a traditional herbal hand massage post-lunch, followed by a chat with your host family to learn some useful Vietnamese phrases. In the afternoon, embark on a bike ride along local paths, pausing to converse with villagers you encounter.

Capture the beauty as you venture into the rural scenery around Mai Chau. Engage in light trekking, discover local villages, explore caves, or simply unwind in one of Vietnam's most picturesque regions. If time allows, cycle through the rolling hills and traditional stilt-house settlements to build up an appetite. Return to the lodge for dinner and enjoy a traditional dance performance by members of the local Thái tribe.

Discover the hidden gem of Pu Luong Nature Reserve, a well-kept secret away from the usual tourist path. Traverse its forested hillsides and rice paddies on foot, immersing yourself in the ambiance of timeless traditions and the everyday routines of the local Thái and Muong tribal communities. Trek alongside the Cham Stream, observing traditional wooden water wheels still in use for irrigation. Later, return to Mai Chau with ample time to freshen up before dinner.

Following a morning's journey east, you'll arrive in Ninh Binh just in time to visit the Ben Dang River and embark on an afternoon sampan cruise. Explore the enchanting grottos of Thien Ha Cave on foot and by boat along underground waterways. Continue the adventure by sampan to the But Cave for further subterranean exploration.

After an early breakfast, enjoy a four-hour drive to Halong Bay, passing through typical North Vietnamese towns and villages. According to local legend, dragons were sent to Halong by the gods to defend the country, and their gemstone spits turned into islands, creating a protective wall. The truth is nearly as captivating as the legend, with the bay showcasing one of the most enchanting natural scenes. Cruise at a leisurely pace, hop onto smaller boats to explore grottos and caves, visit floating fishing villages and scenic lookout points, and indulge in freshly prepared seafood. Each junk offers a slightly different itinerary and onboard amenities, so feel free to chat with us to pick the one that suits you best.

Rise early to the calls of Halong's seabirds nesting among the limestone karsts. Begin your day with a Tai Chi or cooking class on deck as the sun rises. During brunch, the junk will gently turn back toward the mainland. You will then be driven to Hanoi, where you can spend the rest of your day at leisure.

Experience a unique full-day tour in Hanoi, blending the city's main attractions with a delightful foodie adventure. Visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, and the Temple of Literature throughout the day while immersing yourself in the charm of the Old Quarter. Hanoi's locals are renowned for their passion for local cuisine, and on this journey, indulge in delicious seafood, try bánh cuon noodles, and savor some of the world's best pho.

Head to the airport for your flight to Phu Quoc. Upon arrival, you'll be driven to your beach resort. It's time for some serious rest and relaxation!

Enjoy leisurely days to unwind on the beach and take advantage of the hotel's amenities.

Enjoy leisurely days to unwind on the beach and take advantage of the hotel's amenities.

Head to the airport for your domestic flight to Ho Chi Minh City and your onward connecting flight.