Countryside, Caves & Beach

DAY 1, DEPART THE UK 

Depart the UK on your overnight flight to Hanoi 

DAY 2-4  HANOI       

Hanoi is alive with culture, history, and local day-to-day life bustling around you. Travelling by jeep and cyclo, you'll learn a little about the cultural traditions, get lost in the hidden alleyways of the old quarter and taste some of the street food, ice cream (and beer) for which Hanoi is famous. 

We highly recommend rising (really) early at least once if you can bear it. Joining the locals practising badminton, t'ai chi and aerobics around the lake at sunrise is an experience you'll never forget.   

DAY 5 OVERNIGHT TRAIN TO DONG HOI   

After dinner on Day 6, you'll board the "Reunification Express". Bunk up in a sleeper cabin as the train weaves south to Dong Hoi. 

DAY 6 - 8 PHONG NHA KE BANG NATIONAL PARK     

You'll arrive at Dong Hoi early and transfer to your accommodation on the edge of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.  

This remarkable national park is one of the world's largest limestone regions and is home to one of the world's largest caves. You can choose to explore the impressive caves and caverns, take a leisurely boat trip and do a 3km trek.

Outside the caves, there are numerous activities too, kayaking, trekking, exploring the botanical gardens, taking a bike ride through riverside villages or learning about the significance of the Ho Chi Minh Trails (through which soldiers moved supplies from North to South Vietnam during the war). 

It is possible to take a two-day expedition into the enormous Hang En Cave and camp the night inside, though this option is not suitable for younger children.

DAY 9-11  HOI AN         

Depart your hotel this morning for the early transfer to Dong Hoi, where you'll board the day train to Danang; this route offers some marvellous views of the countryside as you weave south through Hue and the mountains. Disembark the train in Danang, and transfer to your hotel (your choice of town or beach). 

During your three-night stay, there will be the chance to experience the ancient town itself or head out of town to the beach. Hoi An Town is a great place to explore at any time, although it's quieter in the morning. Learn about local traditions, taste some delicious food and explore the local shops and markets. 

You'll also have a chance to spend an afternoon (or morning) exploring the nearby countryside with either a Vespa or bicycle tour of the traditional local farms or fishing villages. 

Day 12-15 Beachfront Bliss in Phu Yen  

Back on the day train today with more great views along the way. Today it's south to Dieu Tri, where on arrival, transfer to a glorious beach resort on a serene peninsula south of Quy Nhon. It is an excellent place to relax, but there is plenty to keep all ages entertained with watersports, tennis, snorkelling, and a kids club if needed.  

Day 16 Fly Home 

Transfer to Quy Nhon and board a domestic flight to Saigon or Hanoi, from which you'll connect to your flight back to the UK. Alternatively, you may wish to stop in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) for a few days. Please talk to your travel expert to tailor your perfect itinerary.