Hanoi - Ha Long Bay

Begin your journey with a wander through the ancient stone edifices of Hanoi’s Temple of Literature –an 11th century relic that’s homage to the Chinese scholar, Confucius. Then cross over the iconic Huc Bridge to visit a tiny island on the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake, where you’ll explore Ngoc Son Temple and learn about the legend of an emperor, a magic sword, and giant turtle, which inspired the name of the lake.

Afterwards, take a breezy cyclo through Hanoi’s charming Old Quarter District, where Hanoians buy everything from noodles and light fixtures to Buddha Statues. After exploring many of the 36 bustling streets in Old Quarter, transfer to your meeting point where you’ll embark on a guided street-food tour.

Embark on your culinary adventure under cover of night. First up is a visit to a local watering hole, where you’ll have a chance to taste the world-famous bia hoi –a cheap and surprisingly delicious local brew. Then, continue on through the narrow streets and sample some the bizarre and wonderful assortment of street foods on offer as locals do –perched on impossibly tiny stools! After enjoying a flame-grilled Vietnamese barbecue, end your night on a sweet note with dessert at Hanoi’s most famous ice-cream parlour.

After a refreshing night’s sleep, set off on a scenic journey to the seaside port of Halong Bay. After arriving, board the Spirit of the Bay, a beautifully restored traditional wooden junk boat. From the charming vantage point of its decks, explore the sublime beauty of the bay’s majestic limestone karst mountains, jutting out of the jade-green waters like stone giants.

Along the way, visit a local Pearl Farm and take a leisurely stroll through the Kiem Lam area, a secluded bay within Cat Ba National Park. If you’re feeling adventurous, explore sea caves and remote inlets by kayak or dive in for a swim. Wrap up your evening with a cooking demonstration from the onboard chefs before tucking in for the night.

Wake up refreshed as the vessels gently drifts towards Surprise Cave –the largest in Halong Bay. Board a tender, which will take you to the entrance of the cave and be prepared for a surprise! After entering a narrow passage, the cave opens up to a massive chamber with spectacular limestone formations that seem to defy logic.

After taking in the wonders of Surprise Cave, head back to the boat and enjoy your cruise back to Halong Port where you will continue on back to Hanoi, arriving directly at the airport just in time to catch your flight to the next destination.