We love —
- Seeing the best of Vietnam from the buzzing Ho Chi Minh to an enchanting cruise in the Mekong Delta and Ha Long Bay.
- Exploring World UNESCO sites, dining on delicious Vietnamese cuisine and cruising passed floating villages and islands in Ha Long.
- Opting to begin in Singapore, a city where glass towers rise beside street markets and temples, offering an energising contrast before flying to Vietnam.
New Voyage Privé —
Carefully selected for our members by our experts
Welcome to Vietnam —
Journey through Vietnam, from the lively streets of its historic cities to the striking limestone landscapes of Ha Long Bay, on an itinerary that combines cultural discovery with the comfort of carefully selected 5* hotels. Along the way, experience the country's rich traditions, diverse scenery, and renowned hospitality at a relaxed pace.
Choose Offer 2 to begin your holiday with a stay in Singapore, where sleek modern architecture sits alongside lush green spaces and vibrant heritage districts. Spend time at the stylish Mondrian Singapore Duxton 5* before flying to Ho Chi Minh City to begin your Vietnamese adventure. From there, your itinerary can be tailored with time on the coast, deeper cultural exploration, or immersive nature experiences.
Our offers:
Offer 1: 11- 17-night private tour of Vietnam
Offer 2: Mondrian Singapore Duxton 5* & 11- 17-night private tour of Vietnam
14 nights: 3 nights in Singapore & 11 nights in Vietnam
16 nights: 3 nights in Singapore & 13 nights in Vietnam
18 nights: 3 nights in Singapore & 15 nights in Vietnam
20 nights: 3 nights in Singapore & 17 nights in Vietnam
21 nights: 4 nights in Singapore & 17 nights in Vietnam
Mondrian Singapore Duxton 5* —
Just for you:
- Late check-out at 3pm
Mondrian Singapore Duxton 5* stands in Duxton Hill, Singapore, where heritage streets meet contemporary design and creative expression. The atmosphere carries a composed energy shaped by art-led interiors, subtle lighting tones, and a rhythm of voices that rise and fall with the neighbourhood. It offers a grounded pause within a district defined by culture and movement.
From Duxton Hill, the city unfolds into Chinatown, where temple courtyards and narrow lanes carry incense, food aromas and evening chatter. Telok Ayer brings historic shophouses and contemporary galleries in close conversation. A short walk leads to Tanjong Pagar, where the pace shifts towards the CBD and its rising skyline.
Your room —
Just for you:
- Free upgrade from Signature Room to Signature Skyline Room for stays of 4 nights or more
Choose between a stay in a Signature Room or Signature Skyline Room.
Signature Room (22 m²)
Inspired by Singapore’s reputation as a “city within a garden,” the Signature Room brings together refined comfort and an artistic sensibility. The space is shaped by subtle references to local culture, expressed through arched architectural lines and thoughtfully chosen, regionally sourced materials.
Signature Skyline Room (22 m²)
Your dining choices
This is a bed and breakfast stay.
Dining unfolds across a curated collection of restaurants where Italian indulgence at Bottega di Carna meets wood-fired warmth at Christina’s. Japanese precision defines Suzuki and Firebird, while Noa brings Mediterranean depth. Araya adds South Pacific nuance, and Temper balances wine, cocktails and dining in a composed setting. Each plate arrives with careful presentation and layered aroma. Evenings move upwards to Canyon Club’s rooftop pool bar, where cocktails meet skyline views and a relaxed pulse. Jungle Ballroom shifts into tropical rhythm with music and exotic mixes, while The Last Sip offers late night pours and quiet indulgence as the city softens.
Your time
Above the city, a rooftop pool stretches into the skyline, where water reflects shifting light and the pace of Singapore feels momentarily suspended. Guests move between open-air and shaded seating, with a gentle sense of elevation above the urban rhythm.
A floor below, the fitness centre is equipped with Technogym machines and free weights, offering a purposeful environment for training, stretching and daily movement.
Your itinerary in brief —
DURATION: 11, 13, 15 or 17 nights
BEST FOR: Cultural immersion
PACE: Active
Explore Vietnam:
Embark on a thrilling adventure through Vietnam’s bustling cities and breathtaking natural landscapes with this tour from Ho Chi Minh City all the way north to Hanoi. Explore the country’s vibrant culture, rich history, and mouth-watering cuisine as you journey through its most iconic destinations.
To make your journey even more special, you have the freedom to personalise your itinerary according to your preferences. You can extend your adventure with a relaxing beach stay in Hoi An, where golden sands meet the charm of the ancient town, or enjoy a peaceful retreat in Ninh Binh, known as "Ha Long Bay on land" for its stunning landscapes of rice fields and limestone peaks. For those who wish to experience both, it’s also possible to combine the beach escape and the Ninh Binh stay for a perfectly balanced mix of relaxation and discovery.
Choose the length of your stay:
11-night tour
- Day 1: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh
- Day 2: Ho Chi Minh ⇄ Mekong Delta/Vinh Long
- Day 3: Ho Chi Minh → Hoi An
- Day 4: Hoi An
- Day 5: Hoi An
- Day 6: Hoi An → Hue
- Day 7: Hue
- Day 8: Hue → Hanoi
- Day 9: Hanoi → Ha Long Bay
- Day 10: Ha Long Bay
- Day 11: Ha Long Bay → Hanoi
- Day 12: Departure from Hanoi
13-night tour
- Day 1: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh
- Day 2: Ho Chi Minh ⇄ Mekong Delta/Vinh Long
- Day 3: Ho Chi Minh → Hoi An
- Day 4: Hoi An
- Day 5: Hoi An
- Day 6: Hoi An → Hue
- Day 7: Hue
- Day 8: Hue → Hanoi
- Day 9: Hanoi → Ha Long Bay
- Day 10: Ha Long Bay
- Day 11: Ha Long Bay → Ninh Binh
- Day 12: Ninh Binh
- Day 13: Ninh Binh → Hanoi
- Day 14: Departure from Hanoi
15-night tour
By opting for the 15-night tour, you’ll extend your stay with extra nights at Hoi An, at Palm Garden Resort 5* to explore at your own pace; the rest of the itinerary is identical to the 11-night tour.
17-night tour
By opting for the 17-night tour, you’ll extend your stay with extra nights at Hoi An, at Palm Garden Resort 5* to explore at your own pace; the rest of the itinerary is identical to the 13-night tour.
Please note: your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same.
Your itinerary in detail —
11 NIGHT TOUR
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN HO CHI MINH
Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City, the vibrant and bustling metropolis at the heart of southern Vietnam. Dive into the city's rich history, discover its captivating blend of French colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers, and savour the exquisite cuisine while exploring the dynamic energy of Ho Chi Minh City.
Included:
- Arrive at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN)
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Night at Mai House Hotel 5*
DAY 2: HO CHI MINH ⇄ MEKONG DELTA/VINH LONG
Leave the city behind as you journey into the lush waterways of the Mekong Delta, where life unfolds at the river's gentle rhythm. Explore Vinh Long's vibrant market before boarding a traditional boat to cruise past floating fish farms, riverside brick kilns, and timeless villages where artisans weave baskets, shape bricks, and craft Vietnam's iconic conical hats. A delicious local lunch is followed by a peaceful sampan ride through the narrow canals of Tan Phong Island, shaded by tropical fruit orchards. Return to Ho Chi Minh in the late afternoon, carrying a vivid glimpse of one of Southeast Asia's most fascinating landscapes.
Included:
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Visit a local market
- Mekong River cruise
- Night at Mai House Hotel 5*
DAY 3: HO CHI MINH → HOI AN
Spend the morning discovering Ho Chi Minh's landmarks, from the elegant Central Post Office to the historic Reunification Palace, before diving into the city's everyday rhythm at bustling markets filled with flowers, spices, and local delicacies. Round off your exploration at the atmospheric Jade Emperor Pagoda, where fragrant incense curls through intricately carved halls. Later, board your flight to Da Nang before transferring to the lantern-lit charm of Hoi An.
Included:
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Domestic flight Ho Chi Minh → Da Nang
- Transfer from Da Nang to Hoi An
- Night at Little Oasis 5*
DAY 4: HOI AN
Wake to the slower pace of one of Vietnam's most enchanting towns and enjoy a full day entirely at your leisure. Lose yourself among mustard-yellow merchant houses, riverside cafés, tailor shops, and lantern-filled streets, or simply unwind at your resort.
Included:
- Breakfast included
- Leisure day
- Night at Little Oasis 5*
DAY 5: HOI AN
Another free day invites you to experience Hoi An exactly as you please. Indulge in your included 30-minute foot massage, relax by the pool, browse the boutiques of the UNESCO-listed Old Town, cycle through the surrounding countryside, or spend a lazy afternoon at nearby An Bang Beach. Every corner rewards unhurried exploration and long coffee breaks.
Included:
- Breakfast included
- 1 x 30-minute foot massage in the hotel per person aged 18+ per stay
- Night at Little Oasis 5*
DAY 6: HOI AN → HUE
Travel north along one of Vietnam's most spectacular coastal roads, the legendary Hai Van Pass, where mountain peaks tumble dramatically into the sea. After lunch in Hue, step into Vietnam's imperial past inside the vast Citadel, wandering through imposing gates, elegant palaces, and the historic heart of the Nguyen Dynasty. As evening falls, Hue reveals a quieter, more contemplative side of Vietnam.
Included:
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Transfer Hoi An → Hue
- Night at Pilgrimage Village Boutique Resort & Spa 5*
DAY 7: HUE
Discover the peaceful rhythms of Thuy Bieu Village, a leafy oasis of fragrant pomelo orchards, traditional garden houses, and quiet country lanes best explored by boat and bicycle. Meet local residents and experience a slower pace of life that feels worlds away from Vietnam's busy cities. Continue to Hue's historic Temple of Literature, celebrating centuries of scholarship and elegant Vietnamese architecture.
Included:
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Exploring a local village by boat and bicycle
- Night at Pilgrimage Village Boutique Resort & Spa 5*
DAY 8: HUE → HANOI
Journey to Hanoi, a city where ancient temples, elegant colonial buildings, and lively street life exist in effortless harmony. Experience the capital from the seat of a traditional cyclo as you weave through the legendary Old Quarter, where streets still bear the names of the crafts once traded there. It's a wonderfully immersive introduction to one of Asia's most captivating cities.
Included:
- Breakfast included
- Domestic flight Hue → Hanoi
- Hanoi city tour
- Night at Melia Hotel 5*
DAY 9: HANOI → HA LONG BAY
Travel through the fertile Red River Delta before boarding your elegant cruise in the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Limestone karsts rise dramatically from the sea as the boat glides through one of the world's most iconic seascapes. Explore remarkable caves, savour freshly prepared cuisine on board, and watch the sunset paint the bay in golden hues.
Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- Shared transfer to Ha Long Bay
- Cruise in Ha Long Bay
- Night aboard Indochine Cruise 5*
DAY 10: HA LONG BAY
Begin the day with an optional sunrise Tai Chi session on deck before setting sail deeper into the quieter reaches of Lan Ha Bay. Spend the day cruising among secluded islands and towering limestone cliffs, enjoying ever-changing panoramas that seem lifted from a dream. Return to the main vessel for another tranquil evening beneath the stars, surrounded by the silence of the bay.
Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- Cruise in Ha Long Bay
- Night aboard Indochine Cruise 5*
DAY 11: HA LONG BAY → HANOI
Rise early to admire Ha Long Bay in the soft morning light, when the mist drifts between the limestone peaks and the water is mirror-calm. After a leisurely brunch on board, bid farewell to your floating home and return to Hanoi by road. Enjoy one final evening soaking up the atmosphere of Vietnam's charismatic capital.
Included:
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Shared transfer Ha Long Bay → Hanoi
- Night at Melia Hotel 5*
DAY 12: DEPARTURE FROM HANOI
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and some free time before your transfer to the airport. Whether it's one last bowl of pho or a final stroll through Hanoi's leafy streets, savour the closing moments of an unforgettable journey through Vietnam.
Included:
- Breakfast included
- Private transfer to the airport
- Departure from Noi Bai International Airport
13-night tour:
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN HO CHI MINH
Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City, the vibrant and bustling metropolis at the heart of southern Vietnam. Dive into the city's rich history, discover its captivating blend of French colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers, and savour the exquisite cuisine while exploring the dynamic energy of Ho Chi Minh City.
Included:
- Arrive at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN)
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Night at Mai House Hotel 5*
DAY 2: HO CHI MINH ⇄ MEKONG DELTA/VINH LONG
Leave the city behind as you journey into the lush waterways of the Mekong Delta, where life unfolds at the river's gentle rhythm. Explore Vinh Long's vibrant market before boarding a traditional boat to cruise past floating fish farms, riverside brick kilns, and timeless villages where artisans weave baskets, shape bricks, and craft Vietnam's iconic conical hats. A delicious local lunch is followed by a peaceful sampan ride through the narrow canals of Tan Phong Island, shaded by tropical fruit orchards. Return to Ho Chi Minh in the late afternoon, carrying a vivid glimpse of one of Southeast Asia's most fascinating landscapes.
Included:
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Visit a local market
- Mekong River cruise
- Night at Mai House Hotel 5*
DAY 3: HO CHI MINH → HOI AN
Spend the morning discovering Ho Chi Minh's landmarks, from the elegant Central Post Office to the historic Reunification Palace, before diving into the city's everyday rhythm at bustling markets filled with flowers, spices, and local delicacies. Round off your exploration at the atmospheric Jade Emperor Pagoda, where fragrant incense curls through intricately carved halls. Later, board your flight to Da Nang before transferring to the lantern-lit charm of Hoi An.
Included:
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Domestic flight Ho Chi Minh → Da Nang
- Transfer from Da Nang to Hoi An
- Night at Little Oasis 5*
DAY 4: HOI AN
Wake to the slower pace of one of Vietnam's most enchanting towns and enjoy a full day entirely at your leisure. Lose yourself among mustard-yellow merchant houses, riverside cafés, tailor shops, and lantern-filled streets, or simply unwind at your resort.
Included:
- Breakfast included
- Leisure day
- Night at Little Oasis 5*
DAY 5: HOI AN
Another free day invites you to experience Hoi An exactly as you please. Indulge in your included 30-minute foot massage, relax by the pool, browse the boutiques of the UNESCO-listed Old Town, cycle through the surrounding countryside, or spend a lazy afternoon at nearby An Bang Beach. Every corner rewards unhurried exploration and long coffee breaks.
Included:
- Breakfast included
- 1 x 30-minute foot massage in the hotel per person aged 18+ per stay
- Night at Little Oasis 5*
DAY 6: HOI AN → HUE
Travel north along one of Vietnam's most spectacular coastal roads, the legendary Hai Van Pass, where mountain peaks tumble dramatically into the sea. After lunch in Hue, step into Vietnam's imperial past inside the vast Citadel, wandering through imposing gates, elegant palaces, and the historic heart of the Nguyen Dynasty. As evening falls, Hue reveals a quieter, more contemplative side of Vietnam.
Included:
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Transfer Hoi An → Hue
- Night at Pilgrimage Village Boutique Resort & Spa 5*
DAY 7: HUE
Discover the peaceful rhythms of Thuy Bieu Village, a leafy oasis of fragrant pomelo orchards, traditional garden houses, and quiet country lanes best explored by boat and bicycle. Meet local residents and experience a slower pace of life that feels worlds away from Vietnam's busy cities. Continue to Hue's historic Temple of Literature, celebrating centuries of scholarship and elegant Vietnamese architecture.
Included:
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Exploring a local village by boat and bicycle
- Night at Pilgrimage Village Boutique Resort & Spa 5*
DAY 8: HUE → HANOI
Journey to Hanoi, a city where ancient temples, elegant colonial buildings, and lively street life exist in effortless harmony. Experience the capital from the seat of a traditional cyclo as you weave through the legendary Old Quarter, where streets still bear the names of the crafts once traded there. It's a wonderfully immersive introduction to one of Asia's most captivating cities.
Included:
- Breakfast included
- Domestic flight Hue → Hanoi
- Hanoi city tour
- Night at Melia Hotel 5*
DAY 9: HANOI → HA LONG BAY
Travel through the fertile Red River Delta before boarding your elegant cruise in the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Limestone karsts rise dramatically from the sea as the boat glides through one of the world's most iconic seascapes. Explore remarkable caves, savour freshly prepared cuisine on board, and watch the sunset paint the bay in golden hues.
Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- Shared transfer to Ha Long Bay
- Cruise in Ha Long Bay
- Night aboard Indochine Cruise 5*
DAY 10: HA LONG BAY
Begin the day with an optional sunrise Tai Chi session on deck before setting sail deeper into the quieter reaches of Lan Ha Bay. Spend the day cruising among secluded islands and towering limestone cliffs, enjoying ever-changing panoramas that seem lifted from a dream. Return to the main vessel for another tranquil evening beneath the stars, surrounded by the silence of the bay.
Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- Cruise in Ha Long Bay
- Night aboard Indochine Cruise 5*
DAY 11: HA LONG BAY → NINH BINH
Wake to the tranquil beauty of Ha Long Bay, with the option to join an early morning Tai Chi session on deck before your final cruise through its limestone islets and floating villages. Enjoy a leisurely brunch on board as the ship returns to port, offering one last chance to admire this UNESCO-listed seascape. After disembarking, travel south to Ninh Binh, a region of dramatic karst landscapes often described as Vietnam's most beautiful countryside. Settle in and enjoy a peaceful evening surrounded by emerald rice fields and soaring limestone peaks.
Included:
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Transfer from Ha Long Bay to Ninh Binh
- Night at Aravinda Resort 5*
DAY 12: NINH BINH
Discover why Ninh Binh earned UNESCO World Heritage status as you explore a landscape where ancient history and breathtaking scenery meet. Visit the former royal capital of Hoa Lu before continuing to Bich Dong, where cave temples, pagodas, and panoramic viewpoints are tucked among towering limestone cliffs. After lunch, glide through the spectacular waterways of Tam Coc aboard a traditional rowboat, drifting beneath natural caves and past emerald rice paddies framed by dramatic karst formations. A gentle walk to the peaceful Thai Vi Temple completes a day filled with some of northern Vietnam's most unforgettable scenery.
Included:
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Visit Tam Coc, Hoa Lu & Thai Vi
- Night at Aravinda Resort 5*
DAY 13: NINH BINH → HANOI
Begin the day with the climb to Hang Mua, where hundreds of stone steps lead to one of Vietnam's most spectacular viewpoints, overlooking winding rivers and patchwork rice fields below. Continue by bicycle through quiet villages and tranquil countryside, discovering the timeless rural landscapes that make this region so captivating. After lunch, visit the remarkable Phat Diem Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece that beautifully blends traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship with European Gothic influences. Return to Hanoi in the late afternoon for one final evening in Vietnam's vibrant capital.
Included:
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Visit Hang Mua & Phat Diem
- Transfer from Ninh Binh to Hanoi
- Night at Aravinda Resort 5*
DAY 14: DEPARTURE FROM HANOI
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and some free time before your transfer to the airport. Whether it's one last bowl of pho or a final stroll through Hanoi's leafy streets, savour the closing moments of an unforgettable journey through Vietnam.
Included:
- Breakfast included
- Private transfer to the airport
- Departure from Noi Bai International Airport
15-night tour:
By opting for the 15-night tour, you’ll extend your stay with extra nights at Hoi An, at Palm Garden Resort 5* to explore at your own pace; the rest of the itinerary is identical to the 11-night tour.
17-night tour:
By opting for the 17-night tour, you’ll extend your stay with extra nights at Hoi An, at Palm Garden Resort 5* to explore at your own pace; the rest of the itinerary is identical to the 13-night tour.
Important information about your tour and visits: The hotels, which comply with local standards, are indicative and may be changed locally for hotels of a similar category. The itinerary is subject to changes due to compelling reasons such as delayed flights, weather conditions or other cases of force majeure. The order of visits is also subject to change without affecting the overall experience of the itinerary.
Your hotels —
Just for you:
Hand-picked just for you
At each of your stops, you will be staying in comfortable rooms in thoughtfully chosen hotels.
Your hotels during the tour (or similar):
- Ho Chi Minh: Mai House Hotel 5* (Premier Room)
- Hoi An: Little Oasis 5* (Standard Room)
- Hue: Pilgrimage Village Boutique Resort & Spa 5* (Deluxe Room)
- Hanoi: Melia Hotel 5* (Deluxe Room)
- Ha Long Bay: Indochine Cruise 5* (Junior Suite Cabin)
- Ninh Binh: Aravinda Resort 5* (Countryside Deluxe Room)
- Hanoi: Melia Hotel 5* (Deluxe Room)
- Hoian (15 & 17 night tours only, from day 6): Palm Garden Resort 5* (Superior Garden or Sea View Room)
Additional benefits in select hotels:
Mai House Hotel 5*
- 10% discount on food and drinks
- 10% discount on spa services
Little Oasis 5*
- 15% discount on food and drinks
- 15% discount on spa services
- 1 x complimentary 30-minute foot massage (per person, per stay)
Palm Garden Resort 5*
- 10% discount on food and drinks
If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.
Maximum room capacity: 3 adults or 2 adults + 1 child Single rooms available at an extra cost.
Your dining choices
For a peaceful stay, you will enjoy board as mentioned in the itinerary, depending on the duration chosen. Meals will be served in local restaurants, allowing you to discover the many flavours of Vietnamese cuisine.
Included extras —
English-speaking guide
Enjoy the company of an English-speaking local guide during your trip, and make the very most of your stay.
Optional excursions —
Jeep tour of the Hoi An countryside - min 2 people
Explore the hidden treasures of the Hoi An countryside in a vintage jeep, between rice fields, traditional villages and authentic encounters with local craftsmen.
Discover the Hoi An countryside by boat and bicycle
Discover life in the countryside on the outskirts of Hoi An with a morning in the rice fields where you'll catch a glimpse of the daily activities of local farmers.
Explore the My Son Sanctuary and the ancient town of Hoi An (min. 2 people)
Take a day out to visit the My Son sanctuary, the holy land of the Champa kingdom and a UNESCO World Heritage site, then head to Hoian for a tour of this charming, unspoilt town.
Your journey —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Your destinations —
Vietnam
Vietnam is a country where tradition and modernity coexist in harmony. From the ancient temples in the north to the bustling cities of the south, it offers a rich tapestry of cultural and natural treasures. Hanoi, the historic capital, stands as a testament to the nation's layered past, while the dramatic landscapes of Ha Long Bay and the tranquil Mekong Delta provide an escape into nature’s splendour. The energy of Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) contrasts beautifully with the serenity of rural life, making Vietnam an alluring destination for every traveller.
Must-sees:
- Ha Long Bay: A UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its towering limestone pillars rising from the emerald waters.
- Hoi An Ancient Town: A charming town where traditional wooden houses and ancient streets showcase Vietnam’s rich heritage.
- Mekong Delta: A network of rivers and canals that offer an intimate look at rural life, with vibrant floating markets and lush landscapes.
Culinary culture:
Vietnamese cuisine is a celebration of flavour, balance, and fresh ingredients. Renowned for its diverse street food culture, dishes like pho (noodle soup), banh mi (sandwiches), and fresh spring rolls highlight the nation's ability to blend herbs, spices, and textures seamlessly. Regional specialities, such as Hanoi's bun cha and Ho Chi Minh's com tam, offer a unique insight into the local way of life. Meals are often a communal affair, reflecting Vietnam's deeply ingrained culture of sharing and hospitality.
Dive deeper:
For those seeking a more profound connection with the country, explore lesser-known treasures such as the ancient temples of Ninh Binh or the quiet beauty of Sapa's terraced rice fields. Take part in a traditional cooking class to gain hands-on experience with local ingredients and techniques, or visit the quieter rural areas to witness traditional crafts and the slower pace of life. Exploring Vietnam beyond the main cities unveils its rich and diverse culture, offering a truly immersive experience.
Good to know:
Vietnam's currency is the dong (VND), and most places accept cash payments, though credit cards are commonly used in cities. The climate varies depending on the region, with the ideal travel times being between October and April, avoiding the summer heat and rain. For local transport, taxis and ride-hailing apps like Grab are reliable, and trains or buses connect the major cities. Be prepared for some traffic in larger cities, but the local transportation system is generally efficient.
Singapore
Located off the southern coast of Malaysia, Singapore is an independent island state that blends modern sophistication with deep cultural roots. A dynamic city, it offers visitors a thriving urban atmosphere, a rich heritage, and an unmatched culinary scene, making it a must-see for those looking to explore the diverse flavours and architectural grandeur of Southeast Asia.
Must-sees:
- Colonial District: Immerse yourself in Singapore's colonial past by visiting landmarks like the National Museum, the Singapore Art Museum, and the historically significant Fort Canning Park.
- Little India: A sensory journey through Singapore’s Indian community, filled with vibrant markets, aromatic spices, and colourful cultural expressions.
- Marina Bay: Experience modernity at its finest with the iconic Marina Bay Sands hotel, the breathtaking Gardens by the Bay, and a serene walk past the ‘supertrees’.
Culinary culture:
Singapore is renowned for its diverse culinary offerings, where street food stalls and Michelin-starred restaurants coexist harmoniously. From the famed hawker centres to fine dining establishments, visitors can enjoy local delights such as Hainanese chicken rice, chilli crab, and laksa. Each meal is an invitation to experience the rich multicultural influences of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Peranakan cuisines.
Dive deeper:
Beyond its vibrant cityscape, Singapore offers hidden gems for those willing to explore. Discover Tiong Bahru, a neighbourhood brimming with history and modern cafes, or stroll along the Singapore River to witness the fusion of colonial architecture and contemporary design. For nature lovers, Sentosa Island is home to beaches and nature reserves, offering an idyllic escape from the city’s hustle.
Good to know:
The official currency is the Singapore Dollar (SGD), and the country enjoys a tropical climate, with high humidity and frequent rain from November to January. Public transport is efficient and easy to navigate, with buses and the MRT offering excellent connectivity. Singapore is a year-round destination, though the best time to visit is during the dry months of February to April.