Ready for an unforgettable adventure? 🌏 Join Alma Explores as we dive headfirst into Vietnam—where culture, cuisine, and jaw-dropping scenery collide in the best way possible.

We’ll kick things off in Hanoi, a city that feels like stepping into both the past and the future at once. Think French colonial boulevards, buzzing motorbikes, legendary street food, and temples tucked around every corner. Oh, and yes—you will become addicted to Vietnamese coffee (consider this your warning). ☕✨

Next, we’re trading traffic for turquoise waters on a dreamy 1-night Lan Ha Bay cruise. Picture yourself gliding past limestone karsts, kayaking into hidden lagoons, and catching that sunrise glow over misty islands. Evenings? Fresh dinners on deck, starlit skies, and maybe a glass of wine (or two). 🚤🌙

Finally, we turn up the energy in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)—Vietnam’s electric southern hub. Rooftop bars with killer views, colorful markets, the historic Cu Chi tunnels, and scooter-filled streets that never sleep. It’s where old meets new, and where you’ll feel the pulse of modern Vietnam while still soaking up its rich traditions.

This 10-day journey is the ultimate mash-up of culture, food, history, and natural beauty—the kind of trip that lingers long after you’ve unpacked your suitcase.

*A travel visa is required to enter Vietnam and information can be found here: https://vn.usembassy.gov/vietnamese-visas-and-entry-exit/

Xin chào and welcome to Vietnam! Upon arrival, our driver will meet you at the airport and transfer you to our hotel in the heart of Hanoi, https://peridotgrandhotel.com/ - Check-in is available from 3:00 PM—take time to unwind after your journey.

This evening, join us for a hosted happy hour at the hotel, where you’ll meet your fellow travelers and toast to the adventure ahead. The rest of the night is yours to relax and settle in. Tomorrow, we begin exploring!

Kick off the morning with a hands-on Vietnamese cooking class led by our fabulous guide and chef, Rose. Shop for fresh ingredients, learn the secrets behind classic dishes, and then enjoy the feast you’ve created. After some downtime to rest and recharge, we’ll hit the streets again in the evening for a 3-hour food tour with Rose—sampling sizzling street eats, hidden gems, and local favorites that make Hanoi one of the world’s great food capitals.

Today is all about discovering Hanoi . One of our top-notch local guides from the Alma Explores team will lead the way—sharing insider stories, history, and hidden corners of the city as you explore temples, bustling neighborhoods, and Hanoi’s cultural highlights.

Evening Group Welcome Dinner

It’s your final full day in Hanoi, and the city is yours to enjoy however you’d like. We recommend treating yourself to a spa day (because massages + Vietnamese herbal treatments = bliss 🙌) or wandering at your own pace—shopping for keepsakes, strolling through hidden alleys, or simply people-watching over one last cup of strong Vietnamese coffee. Take this day to relax, recharge, and soak up Hanoi’s charm before we continue our adventure south.

We’re headed to the quieter, dreamier side of Ha Long Bay—Bai Tu Long—aboard the gorgeous Dragon Legend Cruise, where emerald waters, limestone peaks, and fewer crowds set the mood. Expect a little adventure, a little luxury, and a lot of jaw-dropping views.

Day 1 Highlights

• 🚤 Board the Dragon Legend and settle into your cabin
• 🍽️ Lunch with a view as we cruise into Bai Tu Long Bay
• 🛶 Kayak hidden coves or explore a local cave
• ☕ Relax on deck—sun, breeze, and epic scenery
• 🍷 Sunset & dinner onboard, floating under the stars
• 🌙 Overnight on the water, gentle waves + sweet dreams

What to bring:

• Sun Glasses

• Sun Block

• Hat

• Insect Repellents

• Warm Clothes (in winter from November to April)

Today's schedule;

06:00 — Sunrise Tai Chi on the sundeck (stretch + snap those pics 🌄🧘‍♀️)
07:00–07:15 — Breakfast with a view—good morning, emerald bay! 🥐🌊
07:45 — Hop on a rustic rowboat to Vung Vieng Fishing Village
  • Meet local families
  • Float past fish farms & a floating school 🐟🏫
08:45 — Back onboard for a little relaxing before checkout
09:45–10:00 — Check out + free time for dreamy last photos 📸
10:15 — Buffet brunch as we glide through the limestone peaks 😍
11:30–12:00 — Return to port + drive to Yen Duc Village
13:00–13:45 — Enjoy a traditional Water Puppet Show performed by local artists 🎭💦
16:00 — Arrive back in Hanoi—trip ends, memories don’t ✨🌏💛

Welcome to the south! After landing in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), a private driver will be waiting to transfer you from the airport to our hotel: https://lasiestahotels.com/saigon/ Once you’ve settled in, the evening is yours—stroll through the buzzing streets, soak up the city’s energy, or head out for a delicious local dinner to kick off your Saigon adventure.

Get ready to feel the pulse of Ho Chi Minh City! 🏙️💛 On this lively walking tour, we’ll hit the iconic spots (hello, Central Post Office & Opera House!) and slip into the secret corners only locals know. Think buzzing markets, hidden alleys, street snacks, stories you won’t find in a guidebook, and that unforgettable Saigon energy. With a passionate local leading the way, you’ll get personal insights, surprising history, and plenty of “ohhh wow” moments—from the city’s past to its delicious present. Expect culture, cool stories, and one tasty local break… because exploring Saigon should always come with a snack. 😋✨

We’ll begin our final day in Vietnam with a meaningful visit to the War Remnants Museum—a powerful, eye-opening experience that offers important context and reflection on Vietnam’s history. From there, the day is yours to enjoy Saigon your way. 💛 Use our curated restaurant recommendations for one last unforgettable meal, squeeze in some last-minute shopping for gifts (or treats for yourself 👀), book a spa moment, or simply wander and soak it all in. A perfect balance of reflection, freedom, and farewell vibes before heading home. ✨

After an unforgettable journey, it’s time to say goodbye. Check out of the hotel by 11:00 AM, and our team will provide transportation to the airport for your flight back home. We hope you leave with amazing memories and new experiences to cherish.

Safe travels, and we look forward to welcoming you on another adventure soon!