Essential Vietnam (North to South)

Touch down in elegant Hanoi and sample the Old Quarter’s weird and wonderful street food, sizzling with light fragrant flavours and well-known as some of the world’s best. Pull up a chair and sit with the locals, devour the tasty local delicacies and treat yourself to French-style baguettes, stir fried tofu and steaming noodles, all washed down with a refreshing Bia Hoi. Finish of your culinary adventure with a refreshing glace or fruity sorbet at one of the city’s European-style ice cream parlours.

Hop on board a deluxe junk boat for a cruise on the emerald waters of stunning Halong Bay. Legend has it that the islands here were created by a mountain-dwelling dragon, and the name Halong even translates as ‘where the dragon descends into the sea’. Sit back and relax on deck and watch the dramatic limestone pinnacles and numerous sea caves drift past. Perhaps cool off with a dip in the Gulf of Tonkin, or just soak up the fabulous scenery of this World Heritage site.

Return to Hanoi where you’ll learn about the history of this fascinating capital on a city tour, visiting the 11th century Temple of Literature, the fascinating Vietnamese Women’s Museum and the winding streets of the Old Town. Perhaps take a stroll to the peaceful Hoan KiemLake, site of many a tai chi class and whose name translates poetically to ‘Lake of the Restored Sword’. In the centre of the lake, accessed by a bright red footbridge, is the atmospheric Temple of the Jade Mountain.

Board your flight to delightful Hoi An, admire the exquisitely carved Japanese covered bridge and the well preserved pagodas. It’s an atmospheric town, filled with graceful architecture, eclectic restaurants and upmarket lounge bars as well as friendly local cafes and bespoke tailors. Your walking tour will include the Chinese Assembly Halls, the ancestral homes and numerous elegant buildings and local houses. Hoi An is also a great place to pick up a good value tailored suit.

End your holiday on a high as you fly south to Ho Chi Minh City, where grand French colonial buildings and colourful markets await. Crawl to the depths of the Cu Chi Tunnels and sail the watery network of the Mekong Delta, visiting quaint fishing villages and rice paddies along the way. Meet up with a chef, who will take you round a local market and teach you about the various herbs and spices. Stock up on ingredients then head into the kitchen to prepare your very own Vietnamese meal. Make sure you’re hungry, because you’ll eat your dish at the end of the class.