Vietnam with a Culinary Twist

Day 1  Depart the UK 

Depart the UK on your overnight flight to Vietnam

 Day 2 – 4  Hanoi 

Spend three days delving into Vietnam’s capital’s culture, cuisine, and coffee. Experience traditional northern food ranging from contemporary dining experiences like the Michelin-recommended ‘A Bản Mountain Dew’ to staples from the street like Pho and Bun Cha, meeting with a local food expert who will add colour and context to each dish.  

 Your guide will take you for a coffee and a cyclo ride around the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake before leading you through the sights and sounds of the bustling Old Quarter, with a final stop at a rooftop bar for sundowners and a snack as you watch the city life buzzing away below. 

 Day 5 – 6  Halong Bay 

 The focus shifts away from food for the next couple of days as you set sail on a traditional junk boat to explore the breathtaking scenery of Halong Bay. You’ll cruise through the limestone karst mountains and past local fishing boats, exploring hidden beaches and caves, with plenty of chances to swim or kayak. Your evening meal will be served aboard the junk and under the stars. Wake to the tranquillity of the water before heading back to shore for the next stage of your adventure. 

 Day 7 – 8  Hoi An 

 Your exploration of Hoi An begins with a farm-to-table experience in the quaint village of Tra Que, where you’ll meet a farming family and experience traditional country life. Cycle to a local market and pick up fresh produce before a lazy cruise down the Thu Bon River. Next, you’ll visit a cooking school to learn how to turn your freshly picked ingredients into delicious regional dishes and your evening meal.  

Tomorrow, you’ll explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Hoi An as you learn of its 15th-century origins. Stop and chat with characters and try the local herbal drink, Nuoc Mat, before lunch at a wonderful youth-training restaurant and, finally, a secret cocktail experience. We can’t say anymore!  

Day 9 – 10  Hue 

 Head North to the historic city of Hue, home to historic and charming Garden Houses. Learn about the fascinating history of the houses and their old timber structures by sharing a meal with one of their owners in a picturesque courtyard surrounded by landscaped gardens. Take a boat ride along the Perfume River to the serene Thien Mu Pagoda, the tallest religious building in Vietnam, and visit ancient forts and emperors’ tombs nearby. Your evening will be spent sampling local Hue cuisine on a meandering cyclo tour of the town, where your guide will ensure you taste the best the locals have to offer. 

 Day 11 – 13  Saigon 

Food will be the focus of your final city stop in Vietnam, and Saigon has an abundance. Your first evening will be spent on a Vespa food tour: the coolest way to explore the city’s vibrant street-food scene. The following day, enjoy a more serene visit to the HCM Agricultural Village and explore the famous Cu Chi Tunnels before savouring a 9-course dinner at Nen Light, a chic city restaurant.  

Your final day in Vietnam will be spent in Ben Tre in the Mekong Delta, where you’ll explore the narrow lanes, fruit farms, and rice paddies on a three-wheeled motorbike before boarding a riverboat and indulging in a 5-course lunch.  

Your farewell dinner at the Noir restaurant in Saigon will be served in total darkness by visually impaired staff, heightening your senses for a uniquely memorable final meal. 

 Day 14  Fly Home 

 Depart Saigon for your flight back to the UK. Or extend the trip!