Description

Welcome to Vietnam
From the buzz of the big cities to the quiet serenity of the Mekong Delta and the beauty of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam offers up a feast of sights and sounds that entrance even the most experienced of travelers. Come join us for an amazing week exploring the hidden corners and world-famous sights of vibrant Vietnam!
Imagine rice fields painted in vivid green stretching out to the horizon, emerald karsts rising from the turquoise waters of Ha Long Bay, and a glittering city alive with the buzz of motorbikes and the chatter of commerce. This is the real Vietnam, where the unexpected will meet you around every corner and the natural beauty will knock you off your feet.

Sensational Saigon
Saigon. The name itself conjures up a mélange of exotic images of the East: ancient alleyways that lead to crumbling pagodas, markets awash in exotic scents, and women in conical hats making their way out for a day of work in the fields. But past meets present here in Saigon. This is also a thriving commercial center, where skyscrapers rise above you and motorbikes whizz through the streets. Here you will explore the history of the Vietnam War during visits to the War Remnants Museum and the Cu Chi Tunnels, an unbelievable underground city that housed up to 10,000 people during the war. You will also visit the Reunification Palace and stop in at Ben Thanh Market for your first chance to practice the fine art of bartering.

At Home in the Delta
From the electric buzz of Saigon, you will next head out to experience the rural life of the Vietnamese countryside. Hop in a private boat and explore the watery world of the Mekong Delta. Life is lived right on the water here, and you will soon find the pace of life is much more relaxed than in the city. Hunt for souvenirs in floating markets, cruise through quiet hamlets, and keep your finger poised over your camera's trigger you won't want to miss a single shot of the stunning scenery. This is rural Vietnam at its best, and to complete your immersion, you will move in with a local family for a night. This fascinating home stay will offer a great window into local life.

The Beautiful Bay
A UNESCO World Heritage site of otherworldly beauty, Ha Long Bay sits at the top of many travelers' must-see lists. Here you will board a private teak boat for an idyllic day and night cruising through peaceful waters and around the colossal limestone karsts that rise from the depths of the bay. Relax on deck as you float through a natural wonderland, take a kayak out for a spin, and jump right off the deck into the refreshing waters for a swim! You'll eat while looking out on a dream-like landscape, explore ancient caves, and let the gentle lull of the water rock you to sleep at night. Your time in Ha Long is sure to be one of the highlights of your trip!

A Timeless City
One of the most beautiful cities in Vietnam, Hanoi will dazzle you with its tree-lined boulevards and chaotic marketplaces and leave you fascinated with its long history and intriguing sights. The historic heart of the city, teeming with exotic scents and alluring sights, the Old Quarter is Asia at its best. Explore shops selling everything from traditional trinkets to leather bags and let the buzz of life here sweep you off your feet. You will also wander through the Temple of Literature, visit the infamous Hanoi Hilton, and cap off your trip with a visit to Hoan Kiem Lake!

Vietnam is a study in contrasts, where modern-day commerce collides with traditional culture. We invite you to come discover for yourself the intoxicating allure of Vietnam!

This program easily connects with our other great programs in Southeast Asia, China and India.

Highlights

DISCOVER vibrant Vietnam during a week-long tour that will take you through the history of the Vietnam War, around some of Asia's most thriving cities, and into the country's stunning natural beauty.

IMMERSE yourself in the buzzing cities of Saigon and Hanoi.

CRUISE through the turquoise waters of Ha Long Bay during a blissful day and night aboard a private boat.

UNWIND from the bustle of the city in the Mekong Delta, the 'rice bowl' of Vietnam, and cruise through a maze of waterways that nourishes a nation

Travel Types

• Caving/Spelunking
• Overland Tours
• Student Tours
• Tours

Type of Programs

• Adventure Travel
• Student Tours

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

1,895+ 185 Internal Airfare + International air

Program Fees Include:

The above cost includes all ground transportation in-country, 3 meals a day, housing, staff through the duration of the program, and all excursions on the program itinerary not listed as optional.

This Program is open to

American, Asian, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi, South African and Worldwide Participants.

Application Process Involves

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Typically The Application Process Time is

1-2 business days

Rustic Pathways's Mission Statement

Rustic Pathways is a pioneer in providing superior quality travel and service programs for students and families in some of the world's most welcoming countries. Rustic Pathways demands professionalism and integrity across all of its operations, insists on quality in all aspects of its programs, and places the safety of its students above all other considerations. We enrich the lives of our students and our staff, benefit the parts of the world we serve, and build cultural bridges that lead to greater global understanding and cooperation.

Year Founded

1983