Escorted Tours 2023-24 1st Edition

live along these Mekong canals. Stop to witness the Mekong Delta’s largest floating market of Cai Rang, a sight to behold where a bustling cluster of merchants compete with each other to sell fresh produce to local traders and tourists. After enjoying lunch at a local restaurant, transfer to the airport in Can Tho for your flight to Hanoi, where you will have an evening at leisure to settle in. Day 6: Hanoi B/L/D A full-day tour of Hanoi begins by weaving through the charming courtyards and gardens of the ancient Temple of Literature, followed by a visit to the ornate Presidential Palace, a distinctive edifice, strikingly recognisable by its mustard façade. Next, observe the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, designed to resemble a lotus flower which is a Buddhist symbol of enlightenment, before taking a short drive out of the city centre to take part in a local authentic cooking demonstration; sampling traditional flavours and spices often associated with Vietnamese cuisine, enjoy your tantalising creation for lunch. The afternoon continues with an enlightening visit to the National History Museum to discover an assortment of ancient artefacts from imperial Vietnam, before briefly stopping at the Hanoi Opera House to capture the grandeur which exudes this imposing colonial structure. Conclude today’s walking tour as you navigate the swarming market stalls of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, before enjoying an evening at a charming Water Puppet Show, a tradition which originated from local rice paddy farmers over 1,000 years ago. Day 7: Hanoi to Ha Long Bay B/L/D This memorable day takes you to the awe-inspiring Ha long Bay where you will explore these tranquil islands on a luxury cruise boat, passing local towns and intricate limestone formations along the way. Sail to the narrow arched Luon Cave and embark on a kayak or bamboo boat to get closer to this impressive formation which has a maximum height of 4 metres - depending on the tide! Later, experience the stunning Ti Top beach, with the opportunity of a swimming break. Join today’s Vietnamese cooking demonstration, before enjoying a delicious dinner. Retire to your cabin for tonight’s stay upon beautiful Ha long Bay. Day 8: Ha Long Bay to Hanoi BR/D Awake to the rising sun’s glistening reflection from the centre of Ha long Bay and begin your day with some calming Tai Chi. Next, marvel at Sung Sot Cave, one of the largest and most beautiful caves in Ha Long Bay. Later, snake through the bay’s labyrinth of towering limestone islands peppered across this magnificent landscape on your way back to the mainland and travel back to Hanoi for a local dinner and overnight stay. Day 9: Hanoi to the UK B Transfer to the airport for your overnight return flight, or continue on to your chosen extension. Hoi An Meal plan: All meals daily Accommodation: Saigon, 4 H Paragon Saigon Hotel Can Tho, 4 H West Hotel Hanoi, 4 H Sunway Hotel Ha Long Bay, Victory Cruise Flights: London Heathrow to Vietnam with Vietnam Airlines Tour pace: Intermediate Saigon Cai Rang floating market Cu Chi Tunnels Ha Long Bay Departures up to 3 Oct 23 will be one day longer due to flight schedules. Extend your tour Temples of Cambodia experience, 5 nights, 4 H from £669 Hoi An beach stay, 5 nights, 5 H B&B from £459 Private Tour Upgrade Upgrade to a private tour to include your own guide and transport, plus your choice of departure date from £319 Departures & from prices 30 May 23 £1,699 2 Apr 24 £2,299 6 Jun 23 £1,599 23 Apr 24 £1,899 4 Jul 23 £1,799 7 May 24 £1,899 8 Aug 23 £1,999 21 May 24 £1,899 12 Sep 23 £1,899 28 May 24 £1,799 3 & 24 Oct 23 £1,999 4 Jun 24 £1,699 7 Nov 23 £1,999 2 Jul 24 £1,989 21 Nov 23 £1,999 6 Aug 24 £2,039 9 Jan 24 £2,099 10 Sep 24 £1,899 23 Jan 24 £1,999 1 Oct 24 £1,949 30 Jan 24 £2,179 22 Oct 24 £1,949 13 Feb 24 £2,099 5 Nov 24 £1,949 5 Mar 24 £2,099 19 Nov 24 £1,949 • Solo Group departures available 6 Jun 23, 9 Jan 24, 4 Jun 24, 11 Jun 24, 3 Sep 24 & 10 Sep 24 from £1,599 • Tipping paid locally $61 pp per tour • A single supplement starts from just £449 59 East Asia Hundreds of escorted tours are available on our website www.mercuryholidays.co.uk