DAY 1: OVERNIGHT FLIGHT: Depart from USA.
DAY2: HO CHI MINH CITY: ‘Chào bạn’ (Hello) GOOD MORNING VIETNAM! You may very well be the first one in your family to visit Vietnam as a tourist. Your relatives and acquaintances may have experienced this country very differently. The conflict that had international consequences for generations, finally ended with the reunification of the country in 1975. Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, still does justice to its older nickname as the “Pearl of the Far East.” With the relaxation of its former communist system, Ho Chi Minh City is now becoming a solid trading partner as it participates in the free market system. This is not your parents’ Vietnam! You will be greeted with open arms and encouraged to enjoy this beautiful country as if it were your own. Ho Chi Minh City still retains the look and feel of a European city after many years of French rule. Join your friends and sit at an outdoor table at one of the many cafés that dot the cityscape. Sip bold coffee and treat yourself to a vast menu of noodles, pork and seafood. Shuffle back to your hotel stuffed and satisfied!
DAY 3: HO CHI MINH CITY: The citizens of Vietnam, and Ho Chi Minh City in particular, love the history of their county. They will go out of their way to share with you their history which spans more than 1,000 years. The Reunification Palace, surrounded by majestic palm trees, was once the seat of the South Vietnamese government. In 1975, tanks broke through its gates and erected a North Vietnamese flag. It is now a museum dedicated to the history of Vietnam that witnessed the occupation of Japan, France and the United States. Later today transfer to Tay Ninh, the center of the Cao-Dai religion, founded in 1926. An unlikely combination of eastern and western religions, Cao-Dai pays tribute to its influences and preaches peace. End your full day back in Ho Chi Minh City with an unforgettable dinner! You can find traditional food items on every corner, but you may want to indulge in a French meal with Vietnamese flair!
DAY 4: HO CHI MINH CITY: Today will be a challenge. Your perception about the War in Vietnam will be put to the test. There is no other way to describe a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels. The tour is fascinating, but you may hear some disturbing things. “Imperialistic America” and “War Mongering America” are just some of the phrases that you might hear during the informational video that precedes the tour of the tunnels. Crawl into the underground city used by the Viet Cong as hiding spots, hospitals, and living quarters. You will be amazed by this underground complex that enabled the Viet Cong to wage the war. The general sentiment of reconciliation and friendship is apparent. The wounds can only be healed when former enemies forgive, but remember their mutual struggles.
DAY 5: HO CHI MINH CITY/HANOI: ‘Tam biet’ (Goodbye) Ho Chi Minh City and ‘chao mung ban den’ (welcome to) Hanoi. After your short domestic flight, land in Vietnam’s capital. Once a closed and secretive Asian city, Hanoi has embraced the West both culturally and economically. It’s hard to imagine this bastion of communism enjoying such economic growth in recent times. Immediately tour the sites of the old quarter of Hanoi on your way to the hotel. The One-Pillar Pagoda, an ancient Buddhist Temple, holds the honor of one of Vietnam’s most iconic temples. The Temple of Literature, over 1,000 years old, is the first University of Vietnam. Imagine their class reunions. No school trip is complete without a puppet show! The Vietnamese Water Puppets, located in the Old Quarter, is Vietnam’s answer to the Muppets. Relax, reflect and rest at your hotel after your long day as you prepare for tomorrow’s adventures.
DAY 6: HANOI: Today is yours to explore Hanoi with your friends independently. After breakfast return to the Old Quarter. The market in this part of town is fun and full of bargains. Shop for your family and friends back home and impress them with gems from the “Orient.” Leave out the fact that the exchange rate was in your favor. (Hey, it’s the thought that counts.) Take a visit to the United States Embassy in Hanoi.. Meet representatives of the University and learn about the renewed partnership between the U.S. and Vietnam since normalized relations resumed in the 1990’s.
DAY 7: HANOI: How does a cruise and a seafood lunch sound? If the answer is “great”, Ha Long Bay (Dragon Descending to the Sea) is your next adventure. If you answered “no”, you certainly will regret your choice even if the hotel has cable. Cruise past bizarre rock formations such as the Dinh Huong (the incense Um), Cho Da (the Stone Dog), islands with sandy beaches and Ga Choi (the Fighting Roosters) Islets. As you marvel at these natural wonders, you will have the best seafood lunch you have ever had! Back at your hotel enjoy a farewell dinner with your friends.
DAY 8: RETURN FLIGHT HOME: ‘Tu biet’(Adieu) Hanoi. ‘Chao don nha.’ ( Welcome home!)
DAY 1: OVERNIGHT FLIGHT: Depart from USA.
DAY2: HO CHI MINH CITY: ‘Chào bạn’ (Hello) GOOD MORNING VIETNAM! You may very well be the first one in your family to visit Vietnam as a tourist. Your relatives and acquaintances may have experienced this country very differently. The conflict that had international consequences for generations, finally ended with the reunification of the country in 1975. Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, still does justice to its older nickname as the “Pearl of the Far East.” With the relaxation of its former communist system, Ho Chi Minh City is now becoming a solid trading partner as it participates in the free market system. This is not your parents’ Vietnam! You will be greeted with open arms and encouraged to enjoy this beautiful country as if it were your own. Ho Chi Minh City still retains the look and feel of a European city after many years of French rule. Join your friends and sit at an outdoor table at one of the many cafés that dot the cityscape. Sip bold coffee and treat yourself to a vast menu of noodles, pork and seafood. Shuffle back to your hotel stuffed and satisfied!
DAY 3: HO CHI MINH CITY: The citizens of Vietnam, and Ho Chi Minh City in particular, love the history of their county. They will go out of their way to share with you their history which spans more than 1,000 years. The Reunification Palace, surrounded by majestic palm trees, was once the seat of the South Vietnamese government. In 1975, tanks broke through its gates and erected a North Vietnamese flag. It is now a museum dedicated to the history of Vietnam that witnessed the occupation of Japan, France and the United States. Later today transfer to Tay Ninh, the center of the Cao-Dai religion, founded in 1926. An unlikely combination of eastern and western religions, Cao-Dai pays tribute to its influences and preaches peace. End your full day back in Ho Chi Minh City with an unforgettable dinner! You can find traditional food items on every corner, but you may want to indulge in a French meal with Vietnamese flair!
DAY 4: HO CHI MINH CITY: Today will be a challenge. Your perception about the War in Vietnam will be put to the test. There is no other way to describe a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels. The tour is fascinating, but you may hear some disturbing things. “Imperialistic America” and “War Mongering America” are just some of the phrases that you might hear during the informational video that precedes the tour of the tunnels. Crawl into the underground city used by the Viet Cong as hiding spots, hospitals, and living quarters. You will be amazed by this underground complex that enabled the Viet Cong to wage the war. The general sentiment of reconciliation and friendship is apparent. The wounds can only be healed when former enemies forgive, but remember their mutual struggles.
DAY 5: HO CHI MINH CITY/HANOI: ‘Tam biet’ (Goodbye) Ho Chi Minh City and ‘chao mung ban den’ (welcome to) Hanoi. After your short domestic flight, land in Vietnam’s capital. Once a closed and secretive Asian city, Hanoi has embraced the West both culturally and economically. It’s hard to imagine this bastion of communism enjoying such economic growth in recent times. Immediately tour the sites of the old quarter of Hanoi on your way to the hotel. The One-Pillar Pagoda, an ancient Buddhist Temple, holds the honor of one of Vietnam’s most iconic temples. The Temple of Literature, over 1,000 years old, is the first University of Vietnam. Imagine their class reunions. No school trip is complete without a puppet show! The Vietnamese Water Puppets, located in the Old Quarter, is Vietnam’s answer to the Muppets. Relax, reflect and rest at your hotel after your long day as you prepare for tomorrow’s adventures.
DAY 6: HANOI: Today is yours to explore Hanoi with your friends independently. After breakfast return to the Old Quarter. The market in this part of town is fun and full of bargains. Shop for your family and friends back home and impress them with gems from the “Orient.” Leave out the fact that the exchange rate was in your favor. (Hey, it’s the thought that counts.) Take a visit to the United States Embassy in Hanoi.. Meet representatives of the University and learn about the renewed partnership between the U.S. and Vietnam since normalized relations resumed in the 1990’s.
DAY 7: HANOI: How does a cruise and a seafood lunch sound? If the answer is “great”, Ha Long Bay (Dragon Descending to the Sea) is your next adventure. If you answered “no”, you certainly will regret your choice even if the hotel has cable. Cruise past bizarre rock formations such as the Dinh Huong (the incense Um), Cho Da (the Stone Dog), islands with sandy beaches and Ga Choi (the Fighting Roosters) Islets. As you marvel at these natural wonders, you will have the best seafood lunch you have ever had! Back at your hotel enjoy a farewell dinner with your friends.
DAY 8: RETURN FLIGHT HOME: ‘Tu biet’(Adieu) Hanoi. ‘Chao don nha.’ ( Welcome home!)
DAY 1: OVERNIGHT FLIGHT: Depart from USA.
DAY2: HO CHI MINH CITY: ‘Chào bạn’ (Hello) GOOD MORNING VIETNAM! You may very well be the first one in your family to visit Vietnam as a tourist. Your relatives and acquaintances may have experienced this country very differently. The conflict that had international consequences for generations, finally ended with the reunification of the country in 1975. Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, still does justice to its older nickname as the “Pearl of the Far East.” With the relaxation of its former communist system, Ho Chi Minh City is now becoming a solid trading partner as it participates in the free market system. This is not your parents’ Vietnam! You will be greeted with open arms and encouraged to enjoy this beautiful country as if it were your own. Ho Chi Minh City still retains the look and feel of a European city after many years of French rule. Join your friends and sit at an outdoor table at one of the many cafés that dot the cityscape. Sip bold coffee and treat yourself to a vast menu of noodles, pork and seafood. Shuffle back to your hotel stuffed and satisfied!
DAY 3: HO CHI MINH CITY: The citizens of Vietnam, and Ho Chi Minh City in particular, love the history of their county. They will go out of their way to share with you their history which spans more than 1,000 years. The Reunification Palace, surrounded by majestic palm trees, was once the seat of the South Vietnamese government. In 1975, tanks broke through its gates and erected a North Vietnamese flag. It is now a museum dedicated to the history of Vietnam that witnessed the occupation of Japan, France and the United States. Later today transfer to Tay Ninh, the center of the Cao-Dai religion, founded in 1926. An unlikely combination of eastern and western religions, Cao-Dai pays tribute to its influences and preaches peace. End your full day back in Ho Chi Minh City with an unforgettable dinner! You can find traditional food items on every corner, but you may want to indulge in a French meal with Vietnamese flair!
DAY 4: HO CHI MINH CITY: Today will be a challenge. Your perception about the War in Vietnam will be put to the test. There is no other way to describe a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels. The tour is fascinating, but you may hear some disturbing things. “Imperialistic America” and “War Mongering America” are just some of the phrases that you might hear during the informational video that precedes the tour of the tunnels. Crawl into the underground city used by the Viet Cong as hiding spots, hospitals, and living quarters. You will be amazed by this underground complex that enabled the Viet Cong to wage the war. The general sentiment of reconciliation and friendship is apparent. The wounds can only be healed when former enemies forgive, but remember their mutual struggles.
DAY 5: HO CHI MINH CITY/HANOI: ‘Tam biet’ (Goodbye) Ho Chi Minh City and ‘chao mung ban den’ (welcome to) Hanoi. After your short domestic flight, land in Vietnam’s capital. Once a closed and secretive Asian city, Hanoi has embraced the West both culturally and economically. It’s hard to imagine this bastion of communism enjoying such economic growth in recent times. Immediately tour the sites of the old quarter of Hanoi on your way to the hotel. The One-Pillar Pagoda, an ancient Buddhist Temple, holds the honor of one of Vietnam’s most iconic temples. The Temple of Literature, over 1,000 years old, is the first University of Vietnam. Imagine their class reunions. No school trip is complete without a puppet show! The Vietnamese Water Puppets, located in the Old Quarter, is Vietnam’s answer to the Muppets. Relax, reflect and rest at your hotel after your long day as you prepare for tomorrow’s adventures.
DAY 6: HANOI: Today is yours to explore Hanoi with your friends independently. After breakfast return to the Old Quarter. The market in this part of town is fun and full of bargains. Shop for your family and friends back home and impress them with gems from the “Orient.” Leave out the fact that the exchange rate was in your favor. (Hey, it’s the thought that counts.) Take a visit to the United States Embassy in Hanoi.. Meet representatives of the University and learn about the renewed partnership between the U.S. and Vietnam since normalized relations resumed in the 1990’s.
DAY 7: HANOI: How does a cruise and a seafood lunch sound? If the answer is “great”, Ha Long Bay (Dragon Descending to the Sea) is your next adventure. If you answered “no”, you certainly will regret your choice even if the hotel has cable. Cruise past bizarre rock formations such as the Dinh Huong (the incense Um), Cho Da (the Stone Dog), islands with sandy beaches and Ga Choi (the Fighting Roosters) Islets. As you marvel at these natural wonders, you will have the best seafood lunch you have ever had! Back at your hotel enjoy a farewell dinner with your friends.
DAY 8: RETURN FLIGHT HOME: ‘Tu biet’(Adieu) Hanoi. ‘Chao don nha.’ ( Welcome home!)
DAY 1: OVERNIGHT FLIGHT: Depart from USA.
DAY2: HO CHI MINH CITY: ‘Chào bạn’ (Hello) GOOD MORNING VIETNAM! You may very well be the first one in your family to visit Vietnam as a tourist. Your relatives and acquaintances may have experienced this country very differently. The conflict that had international consequences for generations, finally ended with the reunification of the country in 1975. Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, still does justice to its older nickname as the “Pearl of the Far East.” With the relaxation of its former communist system, Ho Chi Minh City is now becoming a solid trading partner as it participates in the free market system. This is not your parents’ Vietnam! You will be greeted with open arms and encouraged to enjoy this beautiful country as if it were your own. Ho Chi Minh City still retains the look and feel of a European city after many years of French rule. Join your friends and sit at an outdoor table at one of the many cafés that dot the cityscape. Sip bold coffee and treat yourself to a vast menu of noodles, pork and seafood. Shuffle back to your hotel stuffed and satisfied!
DAY 3: HO CHI MINH CITY: The citizens of Vietnam, and Ho Chi Minh City in particular, love the history of their county. They will go out of their way to share with you their history which spans more than 1,000 years. The Reunification Palace, surrounded by majestic palm trees, was once the seat of the South Vietnamese government. In 1975, tanks broke through its gates and erected a North Vietnamese flag. It is now a museum dedicated to the history of Vietnam that witnessed the occupation of Japan, France and the United States. Later today transfer to Tay Ninh, the center of the Cao-Dai religion, founded in 1926. An unlikely combination of eastern and western religions, Cao-Dai pays tribute to its influences and preaches peace. End your full day back in Ho Chi Minh City with an unforgettable dinner! You can find traditional food items on every corner, but you may want to indulge in a French meal with Vietnamese flair!
DAY 4: HO CHI MINH CITY: Today will be a challenge. Your perception about the War in Vietnam will be put to the test. There is no other way to describe a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels. The tour is fascinating, but you may hear some disturbing things. “Imperialistic America” and “War Mongering America” are just some of the phrases that you might hear during the informational video that precedes the tour of the tunnels. Crawl into the underground city used by the Viet Cong as hiding spots, hospitals, and living quarters. You will be amazed by this underground complex that enabled the Viet Cong to wage the war. The general sentiment of reconciliation and friendship is apparent. The wounds can only be healed when former enemies forgive, but remember their mutual struggles.
DAY 5: HO CHI MINH CITY/HANOI: ‘Tam biet’ (Goodbye) Ho Chi Minh City and ‘chao mung ban den’ (welcome to) Hanoi. After your short domestic flight, land in Vietnam’s capital. Once a closed and secretive Asian city, Hanoi has embraced the West both culturally and economically. It’s hard to imagine this bastion of communism enjoying such economic growth in recent times. Immediately tour the sites of the old quarter of Hanoi on your way to the hotel. The One-Pillar Pagoda, an ancient Buddhist Temple, holds the honor of one of Vietnam’s most iconic temples. The Temple of Literature, over 1,000 years old, is the first University of Vietnam. Imagine their class reunions. No school trip is complete without a puppet show! The Vietnamese Water Puppets, located in the Old Quarter, is Vietnam’s answer to the Muppets. Relax, reflect and rest at your hotel after your long day as you prepare for tomorrow’s adventures.
DAY 6: HANOI: Today is yours to explore Hanoi with your friends independently. After breakfast return to the Old Quarter. The market in this part of town is fun and full of bargains. Shop for your family and friends back home and impress them with gems from the “Orient.” Leave out the fact that the exchange rate was in your favor. (Hey, it’s the thought that counts.) Take a visit to the United States Embassy in Hanoi.. Meet representatives of the University and learn about the renewed partnership between the U.S. and Vietnam since normalized relations resumed in the 1990’s.
DAY 7: HANOI: How does a cruise and a seafood lunch sound? If the answer is “great”, Ha Long Bay (Dragon Descending to the Sea) is your next adventure. If you answered “no”, you certainly will regret your choice even if the hotel has cable. Cruise past bizarre rock formations such as the Dinh Huong (the incense Um), Cho Da (the Stone Dog), islands with sandy beaches and Ga Choi (the Fighting Roosters) Islets. As you marvel at these natural wonders, you will have the best seafood lunch you have ever had! Back at your hotel enjoy a farewell dinner with your friends.
DAY 8: RETURN FLIGHT HOME: ‘Tu biet’(Adieu) Hanoi. ‘Chao don nha.’ ( Welcome home!)
Educational and Performance Tours to Vietnam
Take your group on an exciting tour to Vietnam, a country renowned for its vibrant traditions and breathtaking landscapes. Your travelers will love immersing themselves in the rich artistic heritage of this enchanting Southeast Asian gem.
Begin your musical odyssey in Hanoi, the bustling capital city. Here, your group can explore the Old Quarter’s narrow streets brimming with traditional shops, where you can discover authentic Vietnamese art and engage with local artisans.
Continue your journey as you venture to the ancient town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its picturesque beauty and cultural significance. During your stay, visit the lantern-lit streets, where your group can partake in lantern-making workshops and enjoy street performances, enhancing the connection between music and visual arts.
Travel south to the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, where you will find a plethora of performance opportunities. The magnificent Saigon Opera House, with its French neoclassical architecture, offers a grand stage for your group to showcase their talents to captivated audiences. Your travelers will enjoy exploring the city’s vibrant markets and historical sites such as the War Remnants Museum.
Conclude your tour in the culturally diverse city of Hue, the former imperial capital. Here, your group can perform at the awe-inspiring Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site steeped in history. Delve into Vietnam’s imperial past as you explore the citadel’s palaces, gates, and gardens. Your group will have the opportunity to learn about traditional Vietnamese music and instruments, participate in workshops, and even trying their hand at playing instruments like the đàn tranh or đàn bầu.
Vietnam’s extraordinary blend of breathtaking landscapes and captivating history makes for a memorable international tour!
TourBitz – Travel Tidbits for your international Adventure!
Official Name: The Socialist Republic of Vietnam
Capital: Hanoi
Language(s): Vietnamese
Major Industries: Vietnam’s agricultural economy suffered greatly during the Vietnam War. Since the war and the recognition of the country by the United States and other nations, Vietnam has enjoyed a surge in high tech manufacturing and is a new player in the oil production stage. Once one of the poorest nations in Asia, today’s Vietnam ranks above India, the Philippines and China!
Currency: VND
Population: est 91 million.
Fun TourBitz: Yes, Vietnam conjures up images of war, unrest in the United States and possibly a general uneasiness throughout the western world. However, if we take a breath we can appreciate the fact that ‘Speed Dating’ originated in the hill counties of Vietnam.