Spend thirteen days in Vietnam discovering the highlights and traditions of this eternally beautiful and historically significant country. Engage in enriching local encounters as your leader reveals the soul of this diverse corner of Asia. Wander through the districts of Hanoi, cruise past the limestone karsts of Halong Bay, take part in a cooking class, explore the old-world charm of Hoi An, and navigate the bustling streets and lively traffic of Ho Chi Minh City. With an unbeatable mix of culture, cuisine, and history, your journey through Vietnam is sure to surprise, delight, and excite at every turn.

This trip ends just a few days before our Japan tour begins. We planned it this way so you can easily join both adventures. We’d love for you to consider experiencing both trips with us.

Please be aware that you must be able to walk up to 3 miles and be able to manage your own luggage up steps if need be.

We specialize in tours for adults only. Our focus is on taking you away from the everyday world and the distractions of family life, immersing you in exotic cultures, sights, and cuisine.

All travelers must have a valid passport for international travel and many countries require at least 6 months validity from the date of return. Some countries also require a machine-readable passport and/or unstamped available pages. When assisting with an international travel booking, we will assume that all travelers on the booking have a valid passport. If this is not the case, you must let us know. It is important to ensure you have valid passports, visas, and re-entry permits which meet the requirements of immigration and other government authorities. Any fines, penalties, payments, delay or expenditures incurred as a result of such documents not meeting the requirements of those authorities will be your sole responsibility.

We exercise care in the selection of reputable travel service providers but we are not ourselves a provider of travel services and have no control over, or liability for, the services provided by third parties.  

In no event do we accept any liability in contract, tort or otherwise, for any injury, damage, loss, delay, additional expense or inconvenience caused directly or indirectly by the acts, omissions or default, whether negligent or otherwise, of third party providers over whom we have no direct control, force majeure or any other event which is beyond our control or which is not preventable by reasonable diligence on our part. We also do not accept any liability in contract, tort or otherwise, for consequential loss (meaning indirect loss, loss of revenue, loss of reputation, loss of profits, loss of actual or anticipated savings, lost opportunities, including opportunities to enter into arrangements with third parties or loss or damage in connection with claims against you by third parties) howsoever caused in connection with your booking.

Risks of Travel and Release: We assume no responsibility for and shall not be liable for the acts or omissions on the part of any other party not under our control or any acts of God, unsafe conditions, terrorism, health hazards including pandemics, illness, weather hazards, or the suitability for a disabled person of any portion of any trip. We have no special knowledge of dangers during travel or at destinations. For information related to such dangers, we recommend going to the State Department travel website at travel.state.gov, click on "Find International travel Information" then click on "Country Information", and fill in the name of the destination country. For medical and health information, we recommend going to the Centers for Disease Control website at cdc.gov/travel, then click on "Destinations" and scroll to the name of the destination country. It is your personal decision to travel, and you are doing so with full knowledge of current travel recommendations and travel restrictions with regards to the risks of COVID-19. YOU HEREBY EXPRESSLY ASSUME ALL OF THESE RISKS AND DANGERS, AND YOU HEREBY EXPRESSLY AGREE TO FOREVER RELEASE, DISCHARGE AND HOLD US, AND OUR AGENTS, EMPLOYEES, OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, ASSOCIATES, AFFILIATED COMPANIES, GUIDES, GROUP LEADERS, AND SUBCONTRACTORS HARMLESS AGAINST ANY AND ALL LIABILITY, ACTIONS, CAUSES OF ACTIONS, SUITS, CLAIMS, AND DEMANDS OF ANY AND EVERY KIND AND NATURE WHATSOEVER WHICH YOU NOW HAVE OR WHICH MAY HEREAFTER ARISE OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THESE RISKS AND Dangers.

If you cancel within 30 days of making your deposit, you will receive a 100% refund minus a $150 admin fee per spot reserved.

If you cancel between 31 days after booking and 180 days before the trip, you will receive a 50% refund minus the $150 admin fee.

No refunds will be given if you cancel within 180 days of the trip’s start date.

Note: If you find someone to fill your spot, I can transfer your balance to them minus the $150 fee, provided the transfer is made at least 60 days before departure. If you become ill or encounter other issues, it is highly likely that the required travel insurance will cover your costs, so please check with your provider.

It is the responsibility of the trip attendee to reach out in the event of a cancellation and to make their payments on time. We reserve the right to retain payments according to the cancellation policy outlined above in order to pay our vendors and ensure the trip can proceed.

By making a deposit, you agree to the above terms of service and cancellation policy.

To make things easier we created a list specific to this trip of things you may want.  You can find it here.

For our best tips on packing in general check this out.

We're committed to ensuring our trips remain safe for everyone — for our travelers, our leaders and crew, and the people we visit along the way. As responsible travelers, anyone who chooses to travel with us has a duty of care to themselves and the people around them. Travelers are required to comply with local regulations and laws.

What are the medical and vaccination requirements? Medical and general vaccination requirements differ between nations and as we are not medical practitioners, we unfortunately cannot advise on this issue. Please see your local GP or travel doctor for details and advice about current vaccination requirements.

We believe vaccinations play a key role in saving lives and helping to keep people safe. Around 70% of the world is vaccinated against COVID-19 but vaccination rates remain low in some of the destinations and communities we visit. Therefore proof of up to date COVID Vaccine is required on all of our trips.

Travel insurance will help protect your investment and it’s required. We use and recommend World Nomads. But if you over 70 it’s best to use some place like Insure My Trip

To ensure smooth operations for our trips, we kindly ask that all payments are made on time. If a payment is 15 or more days past due, a $50 late fee will be applied to your balance.

We understand that unexpected situations can arise. If you need to adjust your payment plan or have any concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Melissa at [melissa@pennypinchingglobetrotter.com]. 

We’re happy to work with you to find a solution. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding!

At Penny Pinching Globetrotter, we are committed to providing an enjoyable and inclusive travel experience for all our guests. To ensure a smooth and harmonious trip for everyone, we have established this Group Travel Code of Conduct. All participants are expected to follow these guidelines to promote a respectful and supportive group dynamic. 

 1. Respect and Cooperation - All travelers are expected to treat each other with kindness, respect, and courtesy at all times. This includes: 

 - Listening to others' opinions and experiences without judgment. 

- Offering help and support to fellow travelers when needed.

 - Communicating openly and constructively to resolve any misunderstandings or concerns that arise. 

  2. Personal Attacks and Harassment - Personal attacks, harassment, or any form of abusive language directed at fellow travelers will not be tolerated. This includes, but is not limited to: 

 - Insulting or belittling others for any reason including remarks based on race, nationality, gender, religion, appearance, or personal beliefs.

 - Making derogatory or offensive remarks, either in person or through digital communication channels (e.g., group chats or emails). 

 - Engaging in behavior that causes distress, harm, or discomfort to others. 

 3. Disruptive Behavior - Traveler's should ensure their behavior does not disrupt the group's activities or the overall enjoyment of the trip. This includes:

 - Avoiding excessive arguments or conflicts that disturb the group’s harmony. 

 - Engaging in proactive problem-solving rather than contributing to negativity. 

 - Being considerate of group plans/schedules and communicating any issues promptly to the group leader or host.

 4. Accountability and Responsibility - Each traveler is responsible for their actions. Should conflicts arise, all involved parties are encouraged to: 

 - Address concerns calmly and privately, when possible.

 - Seek the assistance of the group leader or host if mediation is needed.

- Understand that repeated violations of this policy may result in removal from the trip with no refund. 

5. Group Dynamics and Social Interaction - Group travel is a chance to connect and share experiences with others. We encourage all travelers to: 

 - Participate in group activities with an open mind and a collaborative spirit. 

 - Be inclusive and welcoming to fellow travelers, regardless of their background or personal views.

 - Show empathy and understanding toward the diverse personalities and cultures within the group.  

6. Consequences for Violating the Policy - Failure to adhere to this Code of Conduct may result in the following consequences: 

 - A verbal warning from the group leader or host. 

- In extreme cases, expulsion from the trip without refund, if the behavior continues despite prior warnings. 

In addition, any traveler who exhibits consistently disruptive behavior, or who repeatedly violates the principles outlined in this policy, will no longer be permitted to travel with Penny Pinching Globetrotter in the future. We reserve the right to refuse service to individuals whose actions compromise the experience of other travelers or the integrity of the group.

At Penny Pinching Globetrotter, we aim to create positive, memorable travel experiences for all. By following this policy, we ensure that everyone can enjoy their trip in a respectful and supportive environment. 

By booking your spot on this trip, you are agreeing to the policy outlined above. 

Xin chao! Welcome to Vietnam. Your adventure begins in the country’s capital of Hanoi. You’ll meet your group and leader for an important welcome meeting at 6 pm. 

Afterwards, join your leader and fellow travelers for a welcome dinner at a beautifully decorated restaurant resembling an old-fashioned Vietnamese house. Dive into the exciting world of Vietnamese cuisine as your leader introduces you to a range of classic dishes made with the freshest local ingredients. 

Note: If you plan to arrive early or stay longer, you can add extra nights at checkout, or you might find it more affordable to book directly through hotels.com.  I am an affiliate with them, and when you use my link, I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. 

Arriving early or staying late and looking for something to do? I use these two platforms often for activities and tours: Viator & GetYourGuide.

FYI
This trip ends just a few days before our Japan tour begins. We planned it this way so you can easily join both adventures. We’d love for you to consider experiencing both trips with us. 

Included Activities

• Welcome dinner at an old-fashioned Vietnamese house

Accommodation 

Rey Hotel - or similar

Embark on a full city tour, where you'll visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum, the One Pillar Pagoda & HCM Stilt House, and the tranquil Temple of Literature—an oasis of calm in the city’s heart. You’ll also explore the Museum of Ethnology to learn about Vietnam's diverse heritage. Afterward, enjoy lunch at KOTO restaurant, an outstanding establishment that follows the philosophy of "know one, teach one." KOTO supports underprivileged local youth by providing them with career opportunities in the hospitality industry.

In the early evening, experience a traditional water puppet performance. This northern Vietnamese tradition, dating back nearly a thousand years, is accompanied by traditional music featuring drums, wooden bells, horns, and bamboo flutes.

Included Activities

• Hanoi - Temple of Literature

• Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh Complex

• Hanoi - Lunch at KOTO

• Hanoi - Museum of Ethnology

• Hanoi- Traditional water puppet performance

Included Meals

• Breakfast & Lunch

Accommodation 

Rey Hotel or similar

After breakfast at the hotel, you'll be transported to another fascinating destination—the gem of northern Vietnam—Halong Bay. There, the group will board a beautiful overnight tour boat. During this visit, you'll experience the magic of one of the 7 new wonders of nature.

Upon boarding, a delicious Vietnamese set menu will be served as you leisurely cruise deeper into Bai Tu Long Bay. You'll then arrive at Cap La Island, where you can enjoy kayaking through the karst formations and swimming. Back on the boat, savor a sunset party as the cruise sails to the overnight anchorage, followed by dinner.

In the evening, challenge yourself with Vietnamese puzzle games or gather with your new friends for a board game. You can also try your luck with squid fishing or simply enjoy the quiet night on the bay.

Included Activities

• Halong Bay – overnight cruise & activities

Included Meals

• Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner

Accommodation/Learn more about the boat here

Renea Cruises - Deluxe - or similar

Special Information: 

It is recommended to bring only an overnight bag with your essential items, as there is limited space to store all passengers' luggage on board. After the overnight stay, you will return to the same hotel in Hanoi, where your remaining luggage will be securely stored. 

Start your morning with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck or enjoy a cup of tea or coffee while taking in the stunning landscape of the bay.

Afterward, savor a full Western breakfast before heading out to explore the hidden Thien Canh Son Cave and the white sandy beach at Hon Co Island.

Upon returning to the boat, you'll have about 30 minutes to freshen up and finish packing before attending a Vietnamese cooking demonstration, followed by a traditional Vietnamese lunch on board.

Before leaving the memorable scenery behind, we'll make a stop at The Green Life Centre. This organization is dedicated to turning Halong Bay’s trash into treasure by skillfully transforming discarded items into beautiful handicrafts. Meet the team behind this important cause and learn how to create a reusable bag from repurposed materials.

Afterward, you’ll transfer back to Hanoi (approximately 3.5 hours) to check in at the hotel.

Arrive in the late afternoon and enjoy free time until tonight’s train departure. Be sure to grab a bowl of pho, a local specialty made from broth, noodles, and meat. You might also relax by Hoan Kiem Lake before boarding the overnight train to Hue this evening.

Included Activities
• Tai Chi Lesson & activities on boat

• Green Life Visit

Included Meals

• Breakfast and Lunch

Accommodation 

Thien Thai Hotel – Classic - or similar – day use hotel (1-4 pax/room until 18:00 only)

Overnight sleeper on train: 1 – 6 pax/cabin

Special Information: 

Sleeper trains typically have compartments with four or six berths, where bench seats convert into sleeping bunks. A sheet, pillow, and blanket are provided, though some travelers prefer to bring their own sleep sheet. Depending on the group’s configuration, you may need to share with travelers of different genders or passengers outside of the group. Your leader will coordinate the best arrangement and provide further information. Most trains have a dining carriage with simple meals, but we recommend stocking up on snacks and drinks before departure. 

Welcome to Hue, Vietnam’s former royal capital, known for its cuisine, which many Vietnamese consider the best in the country. The food here is influenced by its imperial heritage, featuring small dishes with a focus on aesthetic presentation, and its strong Buddhist roots, reflected in the many vegetarian restaurants in the area. This morning, after you disembark the overnight train, your leader will help you choose a local, tasty breakfast option.

After leaving your luggage at the hotel (check-in available from 14:00), embark on a city tour by cyclo, a traditional three-wheeled bicycle taxi commonly used in Vietnam. Journey through the streets of Hue, traveling to the Imperial Citadel - The home of Vietnam's last royal dynasty, the Nguyen Dynasty (1802 - 1945) Stop at Thien Mu Pagoda, an active Buddhist monastery since 1601, where you'll see a car that belonged to one of the monks who self-immolated during the 1963 protests. Then continue passing through the local fruit and vegetable markets before stopping over at Ho Chi Minh’s house.

The evening is then free for your own adventure. 

Included Activities

• Hue - Highlights & back streets by cyclo tour

Accommodation 

Thanh Lich Royal Boutique Hotel - or similar 

Loosen your belt and ready your appetite as today you will be diving into Hue’s fabulous culinary scene. 

First up, head to a street food eatery for a seriously tasty breakfast – Bun Bo Hue. This spicy noodle soup  is usually made with beef and pig knuckles and is an absolute must-try while in Hue. 

Later in the afternoon, take a boat trip to the Thien Mu Pagoda, the unofficial symbol of Hue. The Pagoda is an active Buddhist monastery that dates back to 1601. Then, meet with a local chef and explore a bustling local market where you will taste and smell all the wonderful herbs and ingredients that bring local dishes to life, while learning more about the culture of Vietnamese cuisine along the way. Continue to the local chef’s delightful home where you will learn how to cook up some simple and delicious dishes using the fresh ingredients you picked up at the market. Take your new knowledge and local recipes back home with you so you can recreate meals that will take you straight back to Vietnam. 

In the afternoon, visit the elaborate royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, with its beautiful lake, frangipani and pine trees.

Included Activities

• Hue - Royal Tomb of Emperor Tu Duc

• Hue - Market Tour and Cooking Class

• Hue- Thien Mu Pagoda boat trip

Included Meals

• Bun Bo Hue Breakfast

•.Cooking Class Lunch 

Accommodation 

Thanh Lich Royal Boutique Hotel or similar 

This morning, travel by bus through coastal rice paddies and the spectacular Hai Van Pass (approximately 3 hours). After a photo stop along the way, you'll arrive in Hoi An. Today is dedicated to exploring this charming town through a series of authentic experiences. Your leader will begin with an orientation walk around the Ancient Town. Once the national trading center in the 16th century, Hoi An is renowned for its diverse ancient streets and historic homes. Stroll along the unique cobblestone paths and admire the centuries-old Chinese houses.

In the late afternoon, enjoy a boat trip on the Thu Bon River as you take in the beautiful sunset.

Included Activities

• Hoi An - Old Town walking tour

• Hoi An – Sunset boat on Thu Bon River

Included Meals

• Breakfast

Accommodation 

Silkotel Hoi An - Deluxe - or similar

Note: Hotel in Hoi An will be epic stay of the trip and its service and facilities will be better than the other locations. 

This morning, your leader will guide you around My Son Cham, a collection of temples built by the Kings of Champa that date back to the 4th century. In the afternoon, visit Thanh Ha Pottery Village, one of the oldest pottery villages in Vietnam, established in the 16th century. You’ll stop by the home of an artisan couple, now in their 90s, who were once the only artisans in the village and have passed down their traditional techniques and practices.

Continue exploring the village, where you'll meet the descendants of the artisan couple and learn how traditional pieces are crafted. Finally, enjoy a cup of tea and perhaps test your skills by painting a traditional pottery mask.

Return to Hoi An for an evening at your leisure. You may choose to relax by the pool, indulge in a massage, or explore the scenic old town. Our hotel has a free shuttle to the beach and free bikes to use.

Included Activities

• Hoi An - My Son Tour

• Hoi An - Pottery Village Experience

Included Meals

• Breakfast & Lunch

Accommodation 

Silkotel Hoi An - Deluxe - or similar

Note: Hotel in Hoi An will be epic stay of the trip and its service and facilities will be better than the other locations. 

Today, immerse yourself in the rich coffee culture of Vietnam. You’ll learn to make and taste several varieties of coffee, including the unique egg coffee and coconut coffee. You'll prepare five different types of coffee in total.

After getting your coffee buzz, you’ll learn to craft a traditional lantern that you can take home with you. In Hoi An, it is believed that hanging colorful lanterns in front of homes or shops brings good luck.

The rest of the day is yours to enjoy. Perhaps treat yourself to a massage or explore the beautiful old town, which comes alive with colorful lanterns at night.

Included Activities

 • Coffee Class

 • Lantern Making Class

Included Meals

 • Breakfast

Accommodation 

Silkotel Hoi An - Deluxe - or similar

Note: Hotel in Hoi An will be epic stay of the trip and its service and facilities will be better than the other locations. 

 In the morning, you’ll have a few hours to explore more of Hoi An. Then, take a short included flight to Ho Chi Minh City (approximately 1.5 hours). Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City boasts a fascinating history and is often regarded as Vietnam’s capital of commerce and culture. After landing, the group will transfer to the hotel, and the rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you wish. 

Included Activities

• Flight and hotel transfer

Included Meals

• Breakfast

Accommodation 

The Odys Hotel - Deluxe Window - or similar 

 This morning, head out on a day trip to explore the Mekong Delta. Board a private boat to Ben Tre, where you'll visit the lush coconut gardens and stop at a local home to sample tropical fruits and coconut jams. Afterwards, paddle in sampans (small rowing boats) as you glide past coconut trees along the Mekong Delta.

Next, take a tuk-tuk tour around the villages to learn about rural life and the industries that have developed around coconut products, such as coconut candies, coconut oil, and coconut shell bowls. Enjoy lunch at a restaurant in the heart of the Delta, where you can savor regional specialties, including the famous elephant ear fish.

After lunch, cruise the major waterways back to the Ben Tre boat pier, then return by bus to Ho Chi Minh City.

Once back in Ho Chi Minh City, the evening is yours to enjoy as you wish. Perhaps venture out to sample some local specialties.

Included Activities

• Mekong Delta Boat Trip

Included Meals

• Breakfast & Lunch

Accommodation 

The Odys Hotel - Deluxe Window - or similar 

After breakfast enjoy a tour of the dynamic city where daily life plays out on the streets. Your leader will take you to (in no particular order), Notre Dame Cathedral, the historic central Post Office, Thien Hau Pagoda, War Remnants Museum (the museum has a vast display of both  the Indochina wars) and the Reunification Palace (which was built on the site of the former Norodom palace). Wrap your day by visiting Tan Dinh Market is one of the oldest and largest markets in Ho Chi Minh City offering a truly local and authentic shopping experience. 

 
In the early evening, hop on the back of vespa, for insight into the night life of real Saigon. Zigzagging through Backstreets and organized chaotic traffic to different local favorite street food stalls. The portion of the food is medium so you can try more dishes, our foodie guide has special knowledge about the food and will tell you the ingredients, how it was cooked and even the background of each food we try. We will try seafood, banh xeo, BBQ, fruits, drinks, beers, cocktails... (vegetarian option also available). All the food and drinks are included on the tour so come with a big appetite. After that, we drive over the bridge that connects two sides of Saigon River for us to have a view of the city at night. Then we hop into a café bar for live 

music. Sit down and enjoy the romantic singing and cosy atmosphere. At the end of the tour, we go up to a rooftop bar for a stunning view of amazing Saigon at night.

Included Activities

• Reunification Palace

• Notre Dame Cathedral

• Thien Hau Pagoda

• Central Post Office

• War Remnants Museum

• Vespa Street Food Tour

Included Meals

• Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation 

The Odys Hotel - Deluxe Window - or similar 

Sadly, our trip comes to an end. There are no activities planned for the final day, and check-out is at noon. Thank you for traveling with us!

Airport transfer is not included. You can book it through me here upon check-out or on your own here.

Note:  If you are arriving early or staying late, you can add extra nights at check-out or find cheaper options by booking through hotels.com. I am an affiliate with them, and when you use my link, I earn a small commission at no cost to you.

If you’re arriving early or staying late and looking for something to do, I frequently use Viator & GetYourGuide for activities and tours.

FYI: This trip ends just a few days before our trip to Japan starts. We planned it that way so you can enjoy both adventures. Please consider joining us for both trips!