Today’s Essentials

• Arrival: Nội Bài International Airport (HAN).
• Transfer: Airport to hotel transfer as specified in your itinerary.
• Assistance: English-speaking local assistance on arrival.
• Pace: Remainder of the day at leisure following arrival and hotel check-in.

Practical Notes

• Arrival: Transfer arrangements will operate according to your confirmed flight arrival details.
• Hotel check-in: Standard hotel check-in times apply; early check-in is not included unless specifically confirmed.
• Currency: The local currency is the Vietnamese đồng (VND).
• Leisure time: Any sightseeing or activities undertaken independently today are not part of the included programme.

Today’s Essentials

• Sightseeing: Ho Chi Minh Complex area, One Pillar Pagoda, Trấn Quốc Pagoda, Temple of Literature, Hoàn Kiếm Lake and Old Quarter.
• Pace: A combination of walking and road transfers between sightseeing areas.
• Dress: Respectful attire is recommended when visiting religious and national sites.

Practical Notes

• Ho Chi Minh Complex: Opening arrangements and access to individual areas, including the Mausoleum, may vary due to official, seasonal or local requirements.
• Programme: The order and timing of sightseeing may be adjusted locally where necessary while maintaining the overall programme wherever reasonably possible.
• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• Local sites: Photography and access restrictions may apply at certain religious, cultural or national sites.

Optional Evening Experience — Hanoi Street-Food by Vespa

Discover another side of Hanoi on an optional evening Vespa experience, travelling as a passenger with a local driver and stopping to sample a selection of Vietnamese dishes and local flavours. The route, food stops and dishes served may vary according to local arrangements.

This experience is available at an additional cost, must be pre-booked and is subject to availability and local operating conditions. Minimum participant requirements may apply.

Optional Evening Experience — The Quintessence of Tonkin

Enjoy an optional cultural performance inspired by the traditions and everyday life of northern Vietnam. Transport and performance arrangements operate according to the supplier’s schedule and may vary by travel date.

This experience is available at an additional cost, must be pre-booked and is subject to availability, performance schedules and local operating conditions. Minimum participant requirements may apply.

Today at a Glance

• Route: Hanoi → Pu Luong, approximately 155 km; journey time varies according to traffic and road conditions.
• Walking: Guided countryside walk of approximately 3.5–4 km, subject to local conditions.
• Highlights: Rural landscapes, terraced farmland, local communities and traditional stilt-house culture.

Practical Notes

• Walking conditions: Rural and terrace paths can be uneven, muddy or slippery, particularly following rain.
• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes with suitable grip are recommended.
• Seasonality: The appearance of rice terraces and surrounding landscapes varies according to the season and agricultural cycle.
• Programme: Walking routes, village visits and timings may be adjusted according to weather, path conditions and local circumstances.

Today at a Glance

• Base: Pù Luông.
• Included: Breakfast and a day at leisure.
• Optional: Guided biking and trekking experience with lunch, available at an additional cost.

Optional Experience — Biking & Trekking Through Local Villages

For a more active day, join an optional guided experience through the countryside surrounding Pù Luông. Combining walking and cycling, the excursion offers an opportunity to discover rural landscapes and local communities, with a lunch stop hosted by a local family.

The planned route includes walking towards Uoi Village before continuing to Lan Village, where the cycling section begins. Continue through the countryside towards Hieu Village and Hieu Waterfall, followed by lunch with a local family before returning to your accommodation. The precise route, distances, timings and activities may be adjusted according to weather, trail conditions and local operating arrangements.

This optional experience is available at an additional cost, must be pre-booked and is subject to availability, weather and local operating conditions. Minimum participant requirements may apply.

Practical Notes

• Terrain: Village paths and rural trails may be uneven, muddy or slippery, particularly following rain.
• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes with suitable grip are recommended for the optional excursion.
• Seasonality: Rice terraces and surrounding landscapes vary in appearance throughout the year according to weather and the agricultural cycle.
• Waterfall: Water levels and access at Hieu Waterfall vary according to seasonal and local conditions.

Today at a Glance

• Route: Pù Luông → Ninh Binh • approximately 128 km.
• Journey: Approximately 3 hours, depending on traffic, road and local conditions.
• Pace: Transfer followed by leisure time, with an optional afternoon experience available at an additional cost.

Optional Experience — Ninh Binh Countryside, Boat & Mua Cave

Discover more of the Ninh Binh countryside on an optional guided afternoon experience combining cycling, a traditional rowing-boat journey and a visit to Mua Cave. Travel through rural landscapes of rice fields, waterways and limestone formations before taking to the water for a different perspective of the surrounding scenery.

Continue to the Mua Cave area, where those wishing to reach the viewpoint can climb approximately 500 stone steps. The climb is optional and requires a reasonable level of mobility and fitness. Views from the summit are dependent on weather and visibility.

Today at a Glance

• Route: Ninh Binh → Hạ Long Bay • approximately 206 km.
• Journey: Approximately 3 hours, depending on traffic, road and local conditions.
• Experience: Overnight cruise through Hạ Long / Lan Hạ Bay.
• Activities: Cruise activities may include kayaking or swimming and a cooking demonstration, according to the vessel’s programme and prevailing conditions.

Practical Notes

• Cruise programme: The sailing route, activities and timings are determined by the cruise operator and may change due to weather, water conditions, local authority requirements or other operational considerations.
• Activities: Kayaking, swimming and other outdoor activities are subject to weather, safety considerations and the cruise operator’s programme on the day.
• Guiding: Your overland guide may not accompany you on board. Cruise staff will provide information and assistance during the onboard programme.
• Safety: Guests should follow the instructions of the cruise crew when participating in onboard or water-based activities.

Overnight Train — Hanoi → Đồng Hới

• Journey: Overnight rail journey from Hanoi to Đồng Hới.
• Accommodation: Soft-sleeper accommodation, typically in a shared 4-berth air-conditioned compartment, as ticketed.
• Schedule: Train number, departure and arrival times will be confirmed with your travel documentation and are subject to railway schedules and operational changes.
• On board: Facilities are functional and relatively simple compared with hotel accommodation.

Practical Notes

• Cruise programme: Morning activities, sailing route and disembarkation time are determined by the cruise operator and may vary according to weather, local authority requirements and operational conditions.
• Rail schedule: Train numbers and timings may change. Please refer to your confirmed travel documentation for the service applicable to your departure.
• Compartments: Soft-sleeper compartments are normally shared unless private or sole occupancy has been specifically booked and confirmed.
• Facilities: Overnight trains offer relatively simple facilities and standards may differ from those experienced in hotels.
• Luggage: Passengers are responsible for their personal belongings and should keep passports, valuables and essential items with them.

Optional Experience — Dark Cave & Phong Nha Cave

For those looking for a more active experience, an optional excursion combines the Dark Cave with a visit to Phong Nha Cave. At Dark Cave, activities may include ziplining, swimming, kayaking and a mud-cave experience, according to the programme operating on the day and prevailing conditions.

Continue to Phong Nha Cave, where a local boat journey provides access to this remarkable cave system within the Phong Nha–Kẻ Bàng area. Discover its limestone formations and cavern landscapes before returning to your accommodation following the excursion.

This optional experience is available at an additional cost, must be pre-booked and is subject to availability, weather, safety requirements and local operating conditions. Minimum participant requirements may apply.

Today at a Glance

• Route: Phong Nha → DMZ area → Huế.
• Key sites: Vinh Mốc Tunnels • Hiền Lương Bridge & Bến Hải River • areas associated with the Hồ Chí Minh Trail • Khe Sanh Combat Base.
• Theme: Wartime history, remembrance and the landscapes of central Vietnam.

Practical Notes

• Vinh Mốc Tunnels: Accessible sections can be narrow, low and enclosed, with uneven surfaces and steps. Guests who prefer not to enter may remain above ground.
• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes with suitable grip are recommended.
• Journey: This is a relatively long touring day combining road travel with several sightseeing stops.
• Programme: The sequence and duration of visits may be adjusted according to traffic, opening arrangements and local conditions.

Today at a Glance

• Imperial heritage: Imperial City • Huế Museum of Royal Antiquities • Tomb of Emperor Tự Đức.
• Countryside: Tam Giang Lagoon • Rú Chá mangrove area.
• Pace: A full sightseeing day combining walking at the heritage sites with road and boat travel.

Practical Notes

• Walking: The imperial complexes involve walking over a mixture of paved, stone and potentially uneven surfaces.
• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• Weather: Sun protection and a light rain layer are recommended according to the season.
• Lagoon experience: Boat operations and the route may be affected by weather, water levels and other local conditions.
• Programme: The order and duration of visits may be adjusted according to opening arrangements, weather and operational considerations.

Optional Experience — Royal Dinner in Huế

In the evening, you may choose an optional Royal Dinner experience inspired by the traditions of Huế’s imperial past. Enjoy a specially prepared dinner in a traditional setting, with elements of the experience designed to reflect the style and atmosphere associated with the former Nguyễn court.

This optional experience is available at an additional cost, must be pre-booked and is subject to availability and local operating arrangements. Minimum participant requirements may apply. The venue, menu and format of the experience may vary.

Today at a Glance

• Route: Huế → Hội An • approximately 120 km.
• Journey: Approximately 3 hours, depending on traffic, road and local conditions.
• Highlights: Hội An Ancient Town • Japanese Covered Bridge • traditional assembly halls • historic architecture • Thu Bồn River area.
• Pace: Road journey followed by a locally guided walking tour.

Practical Notes

• Walking: The Ancient Town is primarily explored on foot and surfaces may include paving, steps and uneven areas.
• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• Site visits: Individual buildings and attractions may occasionally close or restrict access due to restoration, local events or other operational reasons.
• Shopping: Any shopping or tailoring arrangements are made independently between the customer and retailer and do not form part of Lumle Holidays’ services.
• Programme: The order and duration of visits may be adjusted according to traffic, opening arrangements and local conditions.

Optional Experience — Hội An Memories Show

In the evening, you may choose to attend the Hội An Memories Show, an outdoor theatrical production inspired by the history, culture and trading heritage of Hội An. Combining large-scale performances, costumes, music and visual effects, the show provides a different perspective on the story of this historic town.

This optional experience is available at an additional cost, must be pre-booked and is subject to availability, performance schedules and local operating arrangements. The performance programme, seating category, timings and transfer arrangements will be confirmed according to the booking.

Optional Experience — Mỹ Sơn Sanctuary

Travel from Hội An to Mỹ Sơn Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site associated with the former Champa Kingdom. Accompanied by a local guide, explore the archaeological complex and discover a collection of historic brick temple structures and ruins while learning more about the religious and cultural heritage of the site.

Walking is required over potentially uneven surfaces. The precise departure time, duration and sequence of the visit will be confirmed locally and may vary according to traffic, opening arrangements and local conditions.

Optional Experience — Hội An Countryside & Lantern-Making

Discover another side of Hội An with an optional journey into the surrounding countryside. Travel through local communities and rural landscapes, with visits planned around traditional craft areas such as Kim Bồng and Duy Vinh. Depending on local arrangements, part of the experience may be undertaken by bicycle.

The experience also includes a lantern-making activity, offering an introduction to one of the crafts closely associated with Hội An. Under local instruction, take part in the process of creating a traditional-style lantern before returning to your hotel.

The route, craft visits, cycling arrangements and duration may vary according to weather, local conditions and supplier arrangements. Customers should be comfortable riding a bicycle if participating in the cycling sections.

Optional experiences are available at an additional cost, must be pre-booked and are subject to availability and local operating conditions. Minimum participant requirements may apply. Final timings and arrangements will be confirmed according to the booking.

Today at a Glance

• Route: Hội An → Đà Nẵng Airport → Hồ Chí Minh City.
• Journey: Road transfer followed by a domestic flight and arrival transfer.
• Highlights: Reunification Palace • Central Post Office • local market areas.
• Pace: Travel and sightseeing day, with the programme dependent on the domestic flight schedule.

Practical Notes

• Domestic flight: Flight times and schedules are determined by the operating airline and may change.
• Baggage: Allowances are subject to the fare and airline booked; please refer to your travel documents for the applicable allowance.
• Sightseeing: The order and duration of visits may be adjusted according to the actual flight schedule, traffic, opening arrangements and local conditions.
• Markets: Market visits are intended as an opportunity to experience the local atmosphere; purchases are entirely optional and at your own expense.

Today at a Glance

• Route: Hồ Chí Minh City → Bến Tre → Cần Thơ.
• On the water: Motorboat journey • kayaking • traditional sampan journey.
• Local experiences: Coconut-related workshops • xe lôi ride • local orchard and seasonal fruit tasting.
• Pace: A varied day combining road travel, boat journeys and short active elements.

Practical Notes

• Waterways: Routes and the sequence of activities may vary according to tides, water levels, weather and local operating conditions.
• Local workshops: The workshops visited and demonstrations available may vary according to local activity on the day.
• Fruit tasting: The selection depends on seasonal and local availability.
• Activities: Guests should be comfortable getting in and out of small boats. Kayaking and other active elements are subject to local and weather conditions.
• What to bring: Comfortable clothing and footwear, sun protection and insect repellent are recommended.

Today at a Glance

• Route: Cần Thơ → Trà Sư Cajeput Forest → Châu Đốc.
• Highlights: Trà Sư Cajeput Forest • local boat journey • wetland scenery • Sam Mountain.
• Nature: Cajeput forest, waterways and opportunities to observe local birdlife.
• Pace: Road travel combined with a boat journey and some walking.

Practical Notes

• Journey times: Driving times are approximate and may vary according to traffic, road and local conditions.
• Trà Sư: Boat routes and the appearance of the waterways vary according to season, water levels, weather and local operating conditions.
• Wildlife: Trà Sư is home to a variety of birdlife; however, particular species or wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.
• Sam Mountain: Views are dependent on weather and visibility, and the timing of the visit may vary according to the day's programme.
• Footwear: Comfortable footwear with suitable grip is recommended as some surfaces may be uneven or slippery.

Today at a Glance

• Route: Châu Đốc → Phnom Penh by speedboat
• Highlights: Mekong journey • Royal Palace • Silver Pagoda • Phnom Penh riverfront • Central Market, time permitting
• Pace: Cross-border boat journey followed by locally guided sightseeing

Practical Notes

• Boat schedule: Departure and arrival times are subject to the operating company's schedule and may change.
• Border formalities: Immigration procedures and processing times can vary and may affect the day's sightseeing programme.
• Passports & visas: Travellers are responsible for ensuring they hold the correct passport, visa and entry documentation for Cambodia.
• Royal Palace: Access to individual buildings or areas may be restricted or changed without prior notice due to official functions, religious observances or local arrangements.
• Dress code: Appropriate clothing covering shoulders and knees is recommended when visiting religious and royal sites.
• Programme: The order and extent of afternoon sightseeing may be adjusted according to the boat's actual arrival time, traffic and site opening hours.

Today at a Glance

• Route: Phnom Penh → Siem Reap by road
• En-route stop: Skuon (“Spider Town”), subject to local conditions and timings
• Pace: Overland journey followed by leisure time in Siem Reap

Practical Notes

• Journey time: Driving times are approximate and may vary according to traffic, road conditions, weather and rest stops.
• Skuon: Market stalls, opening times and products available can vary; sampling or purchasing food is entirely optional and at your own expense.
• Comfort: We recommend keeping water and any personal travel essentials with you during the journey.
• Programme: The route, stopping points and timings may be adjusted according to local conditions.

Optional Experience — Apsara Dance & Dinner

This evening, you may choose to enjoy a dinner accompanied by a traditional Apsara dance performance. The performance offers an introduction to Cambodian classical dance through traditional costumes, music and carefully choreographed movements inspired by the country’s cultural heritage.

This experience is available at an additional cost, must be pre-booked and is subject to availability. Venue, menu, performance format, transfer arrangements and timings may vary according to the confirmed local arrangements.

Today at a Glance

• Transport: Local tuk tuk within the Angkor area
• Highlights: Angkor Thom • South Gate • Bayon • Baphuon • Royal Enclosure • Phimeanakas • Terrace of the Elephants • Terrace of the Leper King • Ta Prohm • Angkor Wat
• Late afternoon: Phnom Bakheng, conditions and access permitting
• Pace: Full day of temple sightseeing with considerable walking, steps and uneven surfaces

Practical Notes & Temple Access

• Temple access: Individual monuments, towers, galleries and sections of the archaeological park may occasionally close or have restricted access because of conservation work, religious observances, official requirements or local conditions.
• Angkor Wat: Access to upper sections is controlled and may involve queues, capacity restrictions and additional dress or age requirements. Access to every section cannot be guaranteed.
• Phnom Bakheng: Visitor numbers are controlled and access for sunset cannot be guaranteed. The programme may be adjusted or an alternative stop offered where appropriate.
• Monk blessing: Subject to the availability of monks and local religious arrangements on the day and therefore cannot be guaranteed.
• Dress: Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is required at temple sites. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• Programme: Your guide may alter the order of visits according to opening arrangements, visitor levels, weather and local conditions while aiming to cover the principal sights listed.

Today at a Glance

• Morning: Leisure time depending on flight schedule
• Transfer: Hotel → Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport (SAI)
• Optional: Tonlé Sap excursion where flight timings and local conditions permit

Practical Notes

• Hotel check-out: Check-out times are determined by the hotel and will be advised locally. Late check-out, where available, may incur an additional charge.
• Airport transfer: Your transfer time will be arranged according to your confirmed flight schedule and recommended airport check-in time.
• Flight arrangements: Flight times are subject to airline schedules and may change. Please refer to your final travel documents for confirmed details.
• Optional excursion: Any departure-day excursion is subject to sufficient time being available before your airport transfer.

Optional Experience — Tonlé Sap & Floating Village

Where your flight schedule permits, you may choose an optional excursion to Tonlé Sap, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake. Travel to the lakeside and take a local boat through an area of floating or stilted communities, gaining an insight into life around this remarkable seasonal lake.

The villages, waterways and landscapes experienced vary considerably according to season, water levels and local conditions. The precise route and community visited will therefore be determined locally.

This excursion is available at an additional cost, must be pre-booked and is subject to availability, suitable local conditions and sufficient time before your flight. The route, boat type, duration and community visited may vary according to seasonal water levels and operational arrangements.