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VN-GRAND-14D
14 days / 13 nights
Ha Noi
Vietnam Tour Packages
Overview
Experience the complete Vietnam journey on this comprehensive 14-day grand tour from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. Discover Vietnam’s incredible diversity: trek Sapa’s mountain villages, cruise Halong Bay’s emerald waters, explore Hue’s imperial citadel, wander Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets, and experience Saigon’s vibrant energy.
This Vietnam grand tour visits four UNESCO World Heritage Sites while immersing you deeply in authentic Vietnamese culture through daily signature experiences. Trek with ethnic minorities, learn traditional crafts, share meals with local families, and discover hidden gems beyond typical tourist routes. Small groups (max 16), expert local guides, and thoughtfully crafted experiences reveal the real Vietnam.
Duration: 14 days, 13 nights
Departure: Daily from Hanoi
Language: Professional English-speaking guides
Style: Complete cultural immersion
VIETNAM GRAND TOUR DESCRIPTION
Complete Vietnam experience
Journey Vietnam’s full length experiencing extraordinary diversity: Sapa’s mountain tribes, Halong Bay’s limestone karsts, Hue’s royal heritage, Hoi An’s ancient charm, and Saigon’s modern energy. Each destination reveals unique cultural treasures.
Four UNESCO World Heritage sites
Explore Vietnam’s most celebrated places with expert guidance: Halong Bay, Hue Imperial City, Hoi An Ancient Town, and My Son Sanctuary. Deep historical insights bring centuries of heritage to life.
Daily signature experiences
Beyond sightseeing, participate in exclusive cultural encounters: Tai Chi with Hanoi locals, fishing with Halong families, Sapa homestay with H’mong tribe, royal tea ceremony in Hue, lantern crafting in Hoi An, meeting war veterans in Saigon. Authentic interactions create unforgettable memories.
Small group advantage
Maximum 16 travelers ensure personalized attention, meaningful local interactions, and flexibility to adjust activities. Unlike large tour buses, our intimate groups connect authentically with Vietnamese communities.
VIETNAM GRAND TOUR IMPORTANT NOTES
- Accommodation: 13 nights (11 nights 4-star hotels, 1 night premium Halong cruise, 1 night overnight train to Sapa)
- Pace: Balanced itinerary with guided cultural activities and 3 free days for independent exploration
- What to bring: Comfortable walking/trekking shoes, modest temple attire, layers for Sapa mountains, sun protection, rain jacket, swimwear, camera
- Best time: Spring (Mar-May) perfect nationwide; Summer (Jun-Aug) beach season; Autumn (Sep-Nov) harvest festivals; Winter (Dec-Feb) warm south, cool north
- Cultural sites: Modest dress required (covered shoulders/knees); shoes removed at temples and homes
- Fitness level: Moderate (comfortable walking 4-6 hours; Sapa trekking moderate difficulty)
- Visa requirements: Check for your nationality (e-visa available for most countries)
- Tipping kitty: Organized system – recommend $180-220 per person for entire tour covering all guides and service staff
Itinerary
Arrival in Hanoi
Today's Highlight: Authentic Old Quarter Walking Food Safari
Once landed within Hanoi's airport, convenient transportation is provided, escorting travelers toward their lodging in the Old Quarter. A Vietnam vacation gets underway with engaging walking excursions along Hanoi's ancient pathways, including a tour of the celebrated Ngoc Son Temple. Savor truly genuine Vietnamese food while discovering regional culinary customs, characterizing authentic Vietnamese journey experiences.
Accommodation: Four-star hotels provide lodging in Hanoi's vibrant Old Quarter.
Meals: Enjoy delightful Vietnamese cuisine in authentic dining experiences.
Signature Experience: Unforgettable food safaris, revealing hidden gems, are expertly led.
Notes: Comfortable footwear is recommended. Furthermore, respectful attire is required when visiting sacred temples during package explorations.
Hanoi Cultural Discovery
Vietnam's deep cultural heritage is best experienced. Mornings begin with Tai Chi, led by experts from Hanoi, at Hoan Kiem Lake. Incredible Vietnam tours include visits to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the unique One Pillar Pagoda, a UNESCO site, and the historic Temple of Literature. Vietnamese cuisine is savored through Old Quarter food tours, which include pho and egg coffee. Traditional water puppet shows are enjoyed in the evening, accompanied by meet-ups with puppet masters.
Accommodation: Four-star hotels provide lodging in Hanoi's vibrant Old Quarter.
Meals: Genuine Vietnamese cuisine is included in lunches, traditional dinners, and breakfasts.
Signature Experience: Unique Tai Chi sessions within the community are featured, and puppet workshops will also be given.
Notes: The Mausoleum is closed on Mondays and Fridays.
Hanoi to Halong Bay
A luxurious cruise through the breathtaking, UNESCO-recognized Halong Bay is featured within your Vietnam getaway. Magnificent limestone formations are navigated aboard a top-tier boat while the amazing Sung Sot Cave is discovered. Traditional net-casting methods, passed down across generations, are taught at dusk alongside local fishing communities. Enjoyable swimming and kayaking are experienced before a delectable, freshly-caught seafood dinner is savored as a stunning sunset colors the bay.
Accommodation: Premium cabins with scenic windows are available on the luxury vessel as accommodation options.
Meals: Breakfast, seafood lunch, and fresh-catch dinner are included.
Signature Experience: A traditional fishing lesson from local families is a signature experience.
Notes: Swimwear is recommended for aquatic activities. Weather-contingent experiences and access to the UNESCO site are noted.
Halong Bay to Hanoi
Featured Today: Immerse Yourself in Floating Village Culture A serene Tai Chi session at sunrise on deck is experienced as limestone karsts emerge from the horizon. Your Vietnam vacation encompasses exploration of genuine aquatic communities inhabited by generations. Pearl cultivation and eco-friendly fishing techniques are learned from local inhabitants. Subsequently, a comfortable overnight train transit facilitates entry to Sapa's majestic highlands.
Accommodation: Overnight travel via plush sleeping berths to Lao Cai
Meals: Breakfast is served at a floating village, and a customary midday meal is provided.
Unique Activity: A tea ritual is enjoyed alongside fishing families in their aquatic residences.
Essential Information: A mountainous climate preparedness kit is furnished; relaxed attire is advised for railway travel.
Sapa Mountain Adventure
Sapa's incredible discovery is now available. Generally, arrival check-in commences at 2:00 PM. A distinctive Vietnam adventure is presented, allowing access ahead of time to impressive rice paddies. Professional photography guidance is delivered, promising magnificent pictures. A fascinating mountain heritage is experienced through an educational tour of Cat Cat settlement. Guests are greeted by native H'mong clans. An age-old weaving showcase is appreciated. A cultural exchange is fostered through an unforgettable homestay experience, complete with a memorable meal.
Accommodation: A mountain hotel exhibiting terrace outlooks.
Meals: Village fare for lunch is provided, along with a hosted meal.
Unique Activity: Photographic mentoring and a weaving class are provided.
Please note: Moderate-intensity trekking is required. Rain protection is crucial. Local traditions must be respected.
Sapa to Hanoi - Free & Easy
A captivating Vietnam vacation begins with a nourishing breakfast, followed by a scenic trek across the stunning Muong Hoa Valley. A journey from Y Linh Ho is undertaken, proceeding through Lao Chai village, wherein the Black Hmong reside, before continuing toward Ta Van, populated by the Dzay. Striking vistas of age-old rice terraces, along with the imposing Hoang Lien Son range, are offered, presenting excellent photo opportunities. A traditional lunch, uniquely prepared by local families utilizing time-honored methods, will be savored before returning to Hanoi.
Accommodation: Four-star Hanoi lodging awaits an evening arrival.
Meals: A mountain breakfast and a local lunch are supplied.
Unique Activity: An engaging culinary tutorial, presented through indigenous groups, can be viewed.
Notes: Extended journeys incorporating moderate hikes must be expected. Relaxed clothes are recommended. Electronic refills will be done.
Hanoi Evening Suggestions: A vibrant Hanoi Beer Corner experience, perusing Dong Xuan's wares, and even conventional therapies must be savored. Furthermore, Hanoi Opera presentations, coupled with individual culinary explorations, can be found.
Hanoi to Hue
Hue, the ancient Vietnamese city, invites discovery. A memorable journey through Vietnam begins with a relaxing cruise down the famous Perfume River as evening descends. Deep understanding regarding Hue's royal past is provided by a local expert while the scenic Thien Mu Pagoda is approached, letting incredible sunset images be captured. On returning, a royal tea ceremony with tasty delicacies in an elegant ambiance is enjoyed, as court music is authentically played.
Accommodation: A centrally located four-star hotel, styled in an imperial manner.
Meals: Breakfasts are provided, alongside sweets, during the royal tea event.
Unique Activity: A performance of courtly melodies by descendants is seen.
Important Information: This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Modest clothing must be worn. Photography charges are incurred at historical locales.
Hue Royal Heritage
A memorable journey through Hue's captivating heritage is provided. Vietnam adventures can be elevated through tranquil Perfume River sailing, where peaceful Thien Mu Pagoda visits are included. Subsequently, the magnificent Imperial Citadel, alongside vibrant Dong Ba Market, can be fully experienced by travelers. Authentic local flavors are savored at a traditional lunch, preceding an afternoon focused on royal history. Minh Mang and Khai Dinh Tombs are toured. A village celebrated for conical hats and incense is visited, where a hands-on workshop is experienced.
Accommodation: Rest assured in a four-star hotel situated in the heart of the downtown area.
Meals: Morning meals and a Hue-style midday meal are provided.
Signature Experience: Incense crafting and conical hat creation with artisans.
Notes: Suitable shoes are essential, sun safety is advised, and cultural respect is required.
Hoi An - Free & Easy Day
A memorable journey awaits within the UNESCO-recognized Hoi An Ancient Town, a destination where history unfolds through leisurely exploration each day. Included within curated Vietnam vacation deals is an engaging afternoon spent with the families of artisans, celebrated for crafting silk lanterns over four centuries. Intricate folding methods, passed down through fifteen generations, are taught, while personalized lanterns are designed using chosen silk shades. An enchanting, lantern-illuminated atmosphere is provided, creating an ideal riverside dining backdrop with handmade lanterns softly glowing.
Accommodation: A four-star boutique hotel situated within Hoi An's Ancient Town.
Meals: Breakfast provided, alongside lunch within the artisan family.
Signature Experience: A lantern crafting experience, taught by a multi-generational family, can be enjoyed.
Noteworthy Points: This area has been designated a UNESCO landmark, and lantern festival timing is determined by lunar cycles.
Suggested Independent Activities for a Vietnam Holiday:
An Bang Coast: Pristine sands offer relaxation; a brief bike ride separates it from the ancient town.
Tra Que Herb Village: A cycling tour provides an introduction to organic agriculture and engaging experiences.
Japanese Bridge and Local Museums: A journey through historic architecture spanning past eras.
Round Boat Excursions: Unusual trips through coconut woods offer fishing education.
Customized Clothing: Unique garments are created within Vietnam's noted fashion area.
Early Balloon Ride: Enjoy stunning views of the old city and its surroundings.
Typical Vietnamese massages employ ancient restoration strategies that incorporate locally grown herbs.
Night Culinary Joys: Local gastronomy exploration takes place in an active setting at night.
Hoi An Cultural Immersion
Journey into bygone eras, discovering Vietnam's captivating history! My Son Sanctuary, a celebrated UNESCO World Heritage Site, can be explored with expert guidance. Ancient Cham civilization relics are showcased. Genuine Cham cultural performances, featuring skilled local artists, are included to enrich your Vietnam travel experience. A comprehensive Vietnamese culinary session is included, beginning with ingredient selection at a vibrant marketplace. Time-honored cooking methods are taught by expert chefs.
Accommodation: Relax in a charming four-star hotel inside Hoi An.
Meals: Savor daily breakfasts, a traditional Cham midday meal, and a feast prepared by your own cooking class.
Unique Amenity: A private Cham artistic showcase, along with a workshop on heritage instruments, is offered.
Important Information: Proper shoes are recommended when exploring the ruins. Active participation in cooking is encouraged. Market visits are scheduled.
Hoi An - Free & Easy
Discovering Hoi An: A Personalized Adventure
A voyage customized for individual exploration is offered, letting Hoi An's charm be deeply appreciated. Within a Vietnam trip, choices are available; otherwise, feel the comfortable, relaxing atmosphere in the ancient town.
Accommodation: A refined four-star hotel, nestled within Hoi An's historical center, is provided.
Meals: Complimentary breakfast is served.
Leisure: An entire day is dedicated to autonomous Vietnam holiday adventures.
Guidance: The hotel concierge offers assistance with arranging activities; comfortable walking shoes are recommended for this purpose.
Suggested activities you should experience when traveling in Vietnam:
An Bang Beach: Tranquility is provided upon this pale stretch of coastline. A quick, quarter-hour bike journey from ancient districts is all it takes.
Tra Que Vegetable Village: An absorbing, half-day cycling adventure showcasing ecological farming practices with gastronomical aspects, which can be enjoyed. Demonstrations.
Japanese Covered Bridge and Museums: An unguided walking exploration through Hoi An's architectural heritage sites is highly recommended.
Basket Boat Tours: Enjoy authentic circular boat voyages that traverse coconut palm forests alongside local anglers.
Custom Tailoring: A visit to renowned tailoring establishments in Vietnam's fashion hub is recommended for creating custom-made garments.
Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Flights: Enjoy stunning panoramic vistas of the ancient town and its surrounding landscape from above.
Traditional Vietnamese Spa Sessions: Genuine massage rituals and wellness therapies incorporating native herbs are available.
Culinary Courses: Extra interactive lessons in Vietnamese gastronomy, incorporating market excursions, are offered.
Cycling Excursions: The encompassing countryside, rice fields, and quaint villages can be discovered independently.
Photographic Tours: Hoi An's iconic lantern-lit evening environment, set alongside the Thu Bon River, can be captured.
Sunset River Excursions: Enjoy tranquil boat journeys accompanied by traditional musical presentations on the Thu Bon River.
Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City
Vietnam's vibrant heart, Ho Chi Minh City, is where an incredible journey commences. Memorable vacations throughout Vietnam are defined by singular experiences. Differing perspectives are voiced as personal war stories are conveyed by Vietnam War veterans, while the Reunification Palace and the extensive War Remnants Museum are visited. An expertly led exploration of famous landmarks in District 1 is offered. Subsequently, a lively exploration of Ben Thanh Market takes place, ensuring legitimate souvenir acquisitions with a local advisor.
Accommodations: 4-star hotel conveniently located within District 1, the city center.
Meals: Breakfast and an authentic Vietnamese lunch are included. This tour's signature experience is the reception of personal war narratives from veterans, imparting well-rounded historical insights.
Important Reminders: Heavy traffic is expected. It is essential to stay with your group, and appropriate attire is required when visiting museums.
Ho Chi Minh City - Free & Easy Day
Ho Chi Minh City: A Day of Independent Discovery
A full day of independent exploration is provided in bustling Ho Chi Minh City. Personalized itineraries are made possible by your Vietnam travel package, allowing you to enjoy unique urban experiences. The dynamic financial center of Vietnam is easily explored according to individual interests and energy.
Accommodation: A centrally positioned four-star hotel in Ho Chi Minh City will provide accommodation.
Meals: breakfast and a family-style lunch on the delta tour.
Signature Experience: Authentic interactions are facilitated through culinary experiences and lifestyle immersion.
Important Information: A complete day of moderate activity is involved; protection from the sun is vital; cultural exchange is emphasized.
Suggestions for some reference activities in southern Vietnam for your trip:
Cu Chi Tunnels Expedition: Explore the renowned wartime network.
Culinary Tour of District 1: Discover street cuisine with knowledgeable guides.
Saigon Skydeck Visit: Enjoy breathtaking cityscapes from the Bitexco Tower.
Ben Thanh Market Exploration: Enjoy shopping and cultural observation.
War Remnants Museum Visit: Historical context and photographic displays are observed.
Jade Emperor Pagoda Exploration: A Traditional Spiritual Journey Unfolds.
Motorbike Tours: Local exploration is offered via exciting transit.
Upscale Wellness Retreats: Enjoy luxurious relaxation treatments.
Departure or Extend Your Stay
Featured Today: A Traditional Vietnamese Tea Ceremony, A Fond Farewell Following a bespoke Vietnamese journey, a concluding breakfast and conventional tea observance, overseen by a tea authority, are savored. This profound cultural exploration is contemplated, with insights into Vietnam's teahouse heritage being gained. Accompanied by regional guidance, authentic souvenirs are obtained promptly, ensuring that original Vietnamese keepsakes are selected, distinct from ordinary tourist fare. Finally, transportation to the airport is arranged in preparation for the allocated worldwide departure.
Accommodation: Differing durations, including immediate departures or lengthened visits, can be scheduled.
Meals: Complimentary morning fare is presented, while unique regional delicacies are featured during the traditional tea celebration.
Notes: Confirmed departure times must be validated.
Final Day Options:
Jade Emperor Pagoda: A profound spiritual culminating encounter, complete with traditional incense presentations.
Saigon Central Post Office: The historic French architectural design is captured in photographs.
Notre Dame Cathedral: A final stop is made at this celebrated Saigon monument.
Final Shopping: Unique Vietnamese goods, along with mementos, are carefully picked out.
Suggested interesting programs in Vietnam that you should know:
Phu Quoc Island: A pristine island experience is achieved within three days on the beach.
Can Tho Mekong Delta: A two-day immersion in the floating market is offered.
Dalat Highlands: A two-day escape is provided by flower gardens within a chilly mountain climate.
Mui Ne Beach: Coastal relaxation, filled with sand dune excursions, is achieved over three days.
Price & Bookings
| Grade tour | Price per person in US$ | Single supplement | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2- 3 pax | 4 pax | 6 pax | 8 - 10 pax | Single Sup. | ||
| PRICE FOR PER PAX IN USD | $1551 | $1372 | $1302 | $1250 | $432 | |
(Seasonal prices apply and will be confirmed when booking! All rates quoted in US$ per person)
Language: Professional English-speaking guides throughout tour
Tipping kitty: $180-220 per person recommended for organized tipping system covering all guides and service staff
Payment methods: Cash USD/VND, credit cards, bank transfer, PayPal
TOUR INCLUSIONS
- Professional local guides: Expert English-speaking guides throughout with deep cultural knowledge and passion
- Complete transportation: Private air-conditioned vehicles, domestic flights (Hanoi-Hue, Hoi An-Saigon), premium Halong Bay cruise, overnight train to Sapa
- Accommodation: 13 nights (11 nights 4-star centrally located hotels, 1 night premium Halong cruise cabin, 1 night comfortable train sleeper berth)
- Comprehensive meals: 13 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 8 dinners (including meals you prepare in cooking classes and homestay meals)
- All entrance fees: 4 UNESCO sites, temples, museums, cultural attractions, national parks
- Daily signature experiences: Tai Chi with locals, fishing lesson with Halong families, H’mong homestay, royal tea ceremony, lantern crafting workshop, Cham cultural performance, meeting war veterans
- Cultural activities: Cooking classes with market tours, traditional craft workshops, water puppet show, temple ceremonies, local family visits
- Unique adventures: Halong kayaking/swimming, Sapa valley trekking, dragon boat cruise, lantern floating ceremony
TOUR EXCLUSIONS
- International flights: Flights to/from Vietnam (we can assist with recommendations)
- Vietnam visa fees: Entry visa costs (e-visa available online for most nationalities)
- Personal expenses: Shopping, additional snacks, souvenirs, optional activities during free days
- Travel insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance (highly recommended, available through partners)
- Tips for guides/drivers: Tipping kitty $180-220 per person recommended but voluntary
- Beverages: Soft drinks, alcohol, specialty beverages beyond included meals
- Optional activities: Activities chosen during 3 free days, additional excursions
- Single supplement: Additional $432 for solo travelers requiring private room (train may still be shared)
WHY CHOOSE OUR VIETNAM GRAND TOUR
Most comprehensive Vietnam journey
Experience Vietnam’s complete story in one seamless journey. From northern mountains to southern delta, discover the country’s extraordinary diversity through carefully sequenced destinations revealing Vietnam’s full character.
Four UNESCO World Heritage sites
Visit Vietnam’s most treasured places with expert local guides: Halong Bay’s natural wonder, Hue’s imperial citadel, Hoi An’s preserved trading port, and My Son’s ancient Cham temples. Each site tells compelling stories of Vietnamese civilization.
Exclusive daily signature experiences
What sets this tour apart are unique cultural encounters unavailable elsewhere: practice Tai Chi with Hanoi locals at dawn, learn traditional fishing from Halong Bay families, sleep in H’mong homestay, participate in royal tea ceremony, craft lanterns with artisan families, hear personal stories from war veterans. These authentic interactions create profound cultural understanding.
Sapa mountain adventure included
Unlike standard Vietnam tours, experience Sapa’s stunning rice terraces and ethnic minority villages. Trek through valleys, stay overnight with local families, and discover mountain cultures rarely encountered by tourists.
Perfect pacing with free days
Thoughtfully designed itinerary balances rich cultural experiences with three full free days in key destinations. Explore independently, rest, or choose from curated optional activities matching your interests and energy.
Complete culinary journey
Taste Vietnam’s regional diversity: Northern pho in Hanoi, mountain cuisine in Sapa, fresh seafood on Halong Bay, Imperial dishes in Hue, Central specialties in Hoi An, and Southern flavors in Saigon. Multiple cooking classes teach authentic techniques.
Expert local guides with passion
Passionate Vietnamese guides share insider knowledge, fascinating stories, and cultural insights transforming historic sites into living history. Their expertise facilitates meaningful interactions with local communities.
Essential information for Vietnam grand tour
Best time for complete Vietnam journey
- Spring (March-May): Perfect weather nationwide, ideal temperatures throughout, minimal rainfall, excellent for trekking and cultural exploration
- Summer (June-August): Hot and humid, great for beaches, lush green landscapes, optimal Mekong water levels, afternoon showers
- Autumn (September-November): Excellent conditions, clear skies, harvest festivals, golden rice terraces in Sapa, best photography season
- Winter (December-February): Cool and dry south, cold in Sapa/north (bring warm layers), fewer crowds, comfortable temperatures
What to pack for grand tour
- Clothing essentials: Lightweight breathable clothes for south, warm layers for Sapa mountains (fleece/light jacket), modest temple attire, comfortable walking/trekking shoes, sun hat, rain jacket
- Mountain gear for Sapa: Warm layers (temperatures 10-18°C), trekking shoes with good grip, warm socks, light gloves for early morning
- Cultural respect items: Scarf for temples, long pants/skirts, respectful photography approach, small gifts for homestay families (optional)
- Practical gear: Daypack 20-30L, swimwear for Halong Bay, sunscreen SPF 50+, insect repellent, reusable water bottle, flashlight for overnight train
- Tech items: Camera with extra batteries/memory cards, smartphone, power bank, international adapter (220V), waterproof phone case
- Overnight train: Comfortable sleeping clothes, toiletries, earplugs, small pillow (optional), wet wipes
Cultural etiquette and customs
Temple and religious site behavior:
- Remove shoes before entering temples, pagodas, homes
- Dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees required)
- Speak quietly, move respectfully
- Ask permission before photographing monks or ceremonies
- Don’t point feet toward Buddha statues or elders
Homestay etiquette in Sapa:
- Remove shoes before entering homes
- Participate respectfully in offered activities
- Try all foods offered (polite to sample everything)
- Sleep arrangements basic (floor mattresses in shared spaces)
- Basic toilet/washing facilities (bucket baths)
- Bring small gifts if desired (school supplies, toiletries useful)
Social interactions:
- Learn basic Vietnamese: “Xin chào” (hello), “Cảm ơn” (thank you), “Xin lỗi” (excuse me)
- Use both hands when giving/receiving items
- Avoid public displays of affection
- Respect personal space and privacy
- Photography etiquette: always ask permission for portraits
Health and safety
Pre-departure preparation:
- Consult doctor about vaccinations (Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, Tetanus recommended)
- Obtain comprehensive travel insurance covering trekking and adventure activities
- Bring prescription medications plus extras and copies of prescriptions
- Check visa requirements for your nationality
Food and water safety:
- Drink only bottled or purified water
- Eat at guide-recommended restaurants (included in tour)
- Homestay meals prepared with proper hygiene
- Wash hands frequently or use hand sanitizer
- Peel fruits yourself when possible
Altitude and trekking:
- Sapa elevation 1,600m (no serious altitude concerns)
- Moderate fitness required for valley trekking (4-6 hours)
- Stay hydrated during treks (2-3 liters daily)
- Inform guide immediately of any health concerns
- Guides trained in wilderness first aid
General safety:
- Keep valuables secure in hotel safe
- Be aware of surroundings in crowded areas
- Stay with group during city tours
- Follow guide’s advice about safe areas
- Keep copies of passport and important documents
Emergency support: 24/7 emergency hotline, guide’s direct phone, relationships with international-standard medical facilities in major cities
Overnight train experience
Train comfort level:
- 4-berth shared cabin with air conditioning
- Clean bedding and pillows provided
- Basic washing facilities available
- Luggage stored securely in cabin
- Generally safe and comfortable
What to expect:
- Departure evening, arrival morning
- Light sleepers bring earplugs
- Train movement/noise during night
- Toilet at end of carriage (squat style)
- Bring snacks/water for journey
Tipping kitty for Vietnam grand tour
Supporting your extended cultural journey
Vietnam’s beauty comes alive through passionate local people genuinely caring about sharing their culture. Our organized tipping system makes appreciation simple while ensuring fair distribution to everyone contributing to your 14-day journey.
How the tipping kitty works:
Your tour leader collects voluntary contributions at tour start and distributes fairly among all team members throughout the journey. This eliminates awkward individual calculations at multiple destinations, allowing you to focus on experiencing Vietnam.
Tipping guidelines:
- Highly satisfied: $200-220 USD per person for entire 14-day tour
- Very satisfied: $180-200 USD per person for entire tour
- Satisfied: $160-180 USD per person for entire tour
- Completely voluntary based on your satisfaction with service
Your appreciation supports:
- Expert local guides in each region (Hanoi, Sapa, Hue, Hoi An, Saigon) bringing Vietnamese history and culture to life
- Professional drivers ensuring safe, comfortable transportation throughout Vietnam with expert local traffic navigation
- Halong Bay cruise staff providing exceptional service, delicious meals, and memorable water experiences
- Overnight train staff ensuring comfort during journey to Sapa highlands
- Sapa homestay families opening their homes, sharing meals, and providing authentic mountain experiences
- Hotel and restaurant staff throughout journey creating welcoming environments and maintaining high service standards
- Local cultural hosts teaching crafts, leading cooking classes, facilitating tea ceremonies, and sharing personal stories
- Support coordinators handling logistics, emergencies, and ensuring smooth travel throughout multiple destinations
Important reminders:
Tipping is entirely voluntary and should reflect your satisfaction with the cultural authenticity, knowledge shared, and meaningful connections facilitated throughout your comprehensive journey.
Our team’s mission is revealing Vietnam’s true character through genuine experiences that transform travelers’ understanding of this remarkable country. Whether you contribute above or below suggested guidelines, your participation in Vietnamese culture and appreciation for local traditions matter most.
Tips directly support Vietnamese families working in tourism while encouraging sustainable, community-based travel practices that benefit local communities.
“The most meaningful journeys happen when travelers and locals connect authentically, creating friendships that transcend the tour itself.” – Our Vietnam cultural philosophy
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