Highlights of Vietnam

Soak up the colonial charm of elegant Hanoi - perhaps the most graceful, atmospheric and exotic capital city in Asia. Explore the wide tree lined avenues, beautiful lakes, ancient pagodas and historic Old Quarter which all blend together in a unique fusion of French colonial splendour and oriental charm. Let your love affair with Vietnamese food begin as you sample the many delights on offer, from the delectable delights of the ever present street food stalls to the wide selection of restaurants serving up flavour-packed treats for all tastes.

The highlight of many Vietnam trips, Halong Bay is the jewel in Northern Vietnam's crown. Board a traditional junkboat to see the karst limestone islets rise majestically from emerald green waters, and the colourful floating villages scattered around the bay. Take a swim, grab a kayak or just soak up the incredible view from the boat deck.

Return to Hanoi then board your overnight sleeper train to Hue. A UNESCO World Heritage site home to an astonishing collection of dynastic treasures dotted along the evocative Perfume River, which winds its way through the city, Hue is a treasure trove of sights. Within the crumbling walls of the citadel, you will discover the commanding Imperial City, the splendour of the Forbidden Purple City and many more enchanting streets and monuments, some of which lie in ruin.

Admire the splendid architecture and immerse yourself in a bygone era in Hoi An, a graceful old-world trading port with cobbled streets, traditional homes and tiny shop houses. Boutique restaurants, hip cafes along the waterfront, delightful craft shops and artisans including some of Asia's best bespoke tailors (whose services come at a nominal price), can all be found here. The Old Town, with its Japanese covered bridge and French colonial houses, as well as the impressive My Son Hindu temple are just two of the must-see sights. While you’re here, take part in a cookery class.

Fly on to bustling Ho Chi Minh, a vibrant, modern city with a haunting history. Tour the Cu Chi tunnels and descend into the terrifyingly narrow underground narrow network used by the Viet Cong. Perhaps visit the Reunification Palace - a time warp from the 1970s, complete with secret bunker and military command centre, and pay a visit to the War Remnants Museum for a harrowing view of the war's impact. Also don't miss the many architectural relics from Vietnam's French rule, the chance to shop for souvenirs in the incredible Ben Thanh Market or the opportunity for a bit of ‘me-time' with a foot massage.