SHORTLIST

Vietnam Family Holiday

With great food, lush scenery and lots of warm, friendly locals, the whole family will fall in love with Vietnam. Sail beautiful Halong Bay. Delight at water puppets in Hanoi. Learn about rich emperors in Hue. Get a new outfit tailor-made in Hoi An. Maybe even take a dip in the Vietnam East Sea. With so much to share and do together, you'll experience the culture, flavours, and highlights of a Vietnamese adventure your family will always remember.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

1. Please note that these trips are for adults and children travelling together and there must be at least one child under 18 with you.
2. Minimum age: 5 years old. Please note that anyone aged under 18 must be accompanied by (and share accommodation with) a parent or legal guardian.
3. A discount of 10% applies on this trip to children 17 or younger at the time of travel.
4. Please provide your full name exactly as per passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport), for internal flights and train tickets. Ticketing fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases you will be required to cover the cost of issuing a new ticket.
5. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement exclude Day 3 (Overnight Boat), Day 4 (Sleeper Train) and Day 11 (Homestay) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
6. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel.
7. This trip starts with a welcome meeting at 5 pm on Day 1 in Hanoi. This trip ends on Day 13 and you are free to leave at any time.
8. Tet is Vietnam's New Year festival, held annually in late January or early February based on the lunar calendar. While this can be a fascinating time to travel and experience this event, expect some shop closures and busier than usual local transport. Opening hours at some tourist sites may also be affected or closed. Although we make all reasonable efforts to avoid disruption, a flexible approach from the traveler is appreciated.
9. During the rainy months (approx. June to October), our mode of transport can be changed at short notice due to weather conditions.

Tour details
Tour Provider Intrepid Travel
Price From
$2,227
Number of Days
13
Start Location
Hanoi, Vietnam
End Location
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Age Range
Avg. 30+
Group Size
1 to 18
Tour Style
Standard
Tour Themes
Family
Physical Rating
Easy to Moderate
Itinerary Open all
Day 1: Hanoi
Xin chao! Welcome to Vietnam. Hanoi is famous for its beautiful lakes, shaded boulevards, verdant public parks and its thriving Old Quarter. The latter is a veritable architectural museum piece, with blocks of ochre buildings retaining the air of a 1930s provincial French town. You will be transferred from the airport to your hotel, and your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 5pm. Afterwards, perhaps enjoy some dinner with your family and fellow travellers (this is optional).
Day 2: Hanoi
Embark on a full-city tour of town. You will visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum, and the tranquil Temple of Literature – an oasis of calm in the heart of town. Also head to the Museum of Ethnology to learn more about the diverse heritage of Vietnam. Enjoy some lunch at KOTO restaurant, an excellent establishment and longtime friend of Intrepid which lives by the philosophy of 'know one, teach one'. It supports the underprivileged local youth by giving them a chance at making a career in the hospitality industry. In the evening, sit down to a traditional water puppet performance. This northern tradition, dating back nearly a thousand years, is performed alongside traditional Vietnamese music that employs drums, wooden bells, horns and bamboo flutes.
Day 3: Halong Bay
Travel by minibus to the spectacular World Heritage-listed site of Halong Bay (approximately 4 hours). The bay is a breathtaking secluded harbour, with some 2,000 limestone islands jutting out of the waters of the Bac Bo Gulf. Board your private boat and cruise among the dramatic limestone peaks. There's an opportunity to swim in the famous Vietnam East Sea and explore caves filled with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Spend a peaceful night on board, beneath a sky alive with stars. Your sailing junk has twin-share cabins that have air-conditioning and private facilities. There's also a dining room and bar.

Notes: Due to recent, unforeseen changes by local authorities, many boats are no longer permitted to stay overnight on the bay. This has resulted in a boat shortage. To ensure Intrepid travellers are all accommodated, a larger boat, usually with 12 cabins, may be used, and passengers may be split across multiple boats. An Intrepid group leader will be present on each boat, and the route and onboard inclusions will remain the same.
Day 4: Hue
Enjoy breakfast on the boat this morning and perhaps head out for an optional early morning kayak. Return to Hanoi by bus (approximately 3.5 hours). From there you will board an overnight train bound for Hue. As the former imperial capital of Vietnam, Hue holds the treasures of Vietnam's royal past. It's a curious mix of bustling streets and tranquil settings. Although conditions are basic on your train journey, overnight trains are a classic South East Asian experience and the best way to travel long distances with the locals. Lie back and enjoy the ride! Most trains have a dining carriage serving simple food, but it's a great idea to stock up on fresh bread, cheese and fruit before you head off.

Notes: Sleeper trains typically have four-berth compartments (occasionally six-berth, depending on seasonal variations) which have bench seats that convert into sleeping bunks. A sheet, pillow and blanket are provided, although some travellers prefer to bring their own sleeping sheet. On occasion, passengers of different genders will be required to share a compartment and there will be occasions where you'll be sharing with local travellers or travellers who are not part of your group.
Day 5: Hue
Welcome to Hue! Your leader will help you chose a local, tasty breakfast option this morning after you disembark the overnight train. Afterwards, you will take a visit to Thien Mu Pagoda, which is considered by many to be the unofficial symbol of Hue. It's an active Buddhist monastery originating in 1601. One of the most poignant displays here is a car belonging to a former monk who, in 1963, drove to Saigon and set himself alight to protest against the treatment of Buddhists by the South Vietnamese regime.
You will have some free time to explore on your own before an afternoon cyclo tour. Journey through the streets of Hue, travelling around the citadel, passing through the local fruit and vegetable markets before stopping over at Ho Chi Minh’s house.
Day 6: Hue
Delve further into the fascinating former capital today. You will visit the Imperial Citadel, which is the best-preserved remnant of a large citidel and Royal centre that once existed on this fortified site. The unique fortifications are fascinating, even though much of this place has sadly been destroyed by war. The foliage-covered ruins make for an interesting couple of hours of exploring. You will visit the Forbidden Purple City, which was almost totally wiped out during the Tet Offensive in 1968. The gaping holes left by bombs give an idea of the shocking destruction wreaked upon the country during the war. You will visit one of the royal tombs, that of Emperor Tu Duc, and see the central lake set amid a grove of frangipani and pine trees. There is also the chance to visit the tomb of Minh Mang. Its lush forest backdrop and impressive architecture make it perhaps the most majestic of all the royal tombs.

Afterwards stop into a local non-government organisation that supports Hue’s deaf community by providing training, employment, support and a place to connect with others. Here you’ll meet members of the community and join them for a traditional paper flower making class – a fun and interesting way to get to connect with your hosts without exchanging any words.
Day 7: Hoi An
Travelling by bus, head south through coastal rice paddies, then traverse the spectacular Hai Van Pass along the mountains en route to Hoi An (approximately 4 hours). Recently declared a World Heritage site, Hoi An is beautifully preserved and exudes a tranquil atmosphere. It's perfect for strolling around at a leisurely pace, with many beautiful Japanese houses and Chinese temples lining the narrow lanes. Parts of Hoi An look exactly as they did more than a century ago. It's also a shopping mecca – browse local markets and shops for original paintings, handcrafted woodwork, ceramics, embroidery and lanterns. Hoi An has also become famous for its tailoring, with a great variety of fabrics and tailors to choose from.
Day 8: Hoi An
After breakfast, head out to spend the morning at Cua Dai beach. This beach is known for its stunning palm-fringed white sand and views of the Cham islands. Transfer back to town and pop into a local restaurant where you’ll learn how to make ‘white rose cake’, one of Hoi An’s most popular street foods. These tasty savoury dumplings are made with rice paper and minced shrimp and named after their resemblance to a white flower. Once your local instructors have taught you how to make these delicious parcels, sit down together and tuck into your creations for lunch. This hands-on experience is one the whole family will enjoy!
Day 9: Hoi An
Enjoy further free time in this beautiful old town. Perhaps take up a cooking class and learn the secrets of preparing local specialties like cao lau – dark pork broth with thick yellow noodles, sliced pork, bean sprouts, green vegetables and croutons. Street food tours can also be arranged. Alternatively, hire some bikes and take the family out on a cycling trip into the gorgeous surrounding countryside. Another great activity which kids will enjoy is a bamboo basket ride down the waterways of the jungle. For more optional day- and half-day trips, chat to your leader.
Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City
Take a short flight to the economic hub of Ho Chi Minh City (approximately 1 hour). Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is characterised by a vast array of sights and sounds – a fascinating blend of old and new, East and West. Check out Ben Thanh Market and experience a delicious local lunch of street food, and enjoy an orientation walk. Afterwards, you're free to explore the city on your own. Your leader will have plenty of interesting and fun ideas for you and the kids. Consider scooting off on cyclos to Cholon, the Chinatown area of Ho Chi Minh City, for a bit of temple-hopping. Or visit the Vietnamese version of a department store for some serious shopping.
Day 11: Mekong Delta
Head down to the Mekong Delta and visit unexplored Ben Tre where coconut is everything and anything. The fertile delta is famous for its abundant harvests of tropical fruits and flowers. On arrival, board your private boat and cruise along the maze of waterways to visit some local cottage industries. This is a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at a different part of the local economy. Then head to your overnight homestay by the water. Be invited into a family home for a true local experience – a chance to see daily life from the inside.
Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City
Life in the delta starts with the sun, so embrace the day early. You will visit a local market before heading back to Ho Chi Minh City for one more night. You should arrive in the afternoon, which will give you time for a final exploration of the city. On Day 13 your trip comes to an end, and you are free to leave at any time. For those who have booked an airport transfer, the leader will confirm your departure time and onward flight details.
Day 13: Ho Chi Minh City
Today is your last day and there are no activities planned. You are free to leave at any time. For those who have booked an airport transfer, the leader will confirm your departure time to the airport and your onward flight.
Inclusions
  • Meals: 11 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 2 dinners.
  • Transport: Boat, Minibus, Overnight sleeper train, Plane.
  • Accommodation: Hotel (9 nights), Overnight boat (1 night), Overnight sleeper train (1 night), Homestay (1 night).
  • Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer.
  • Hanoi - Temple of Literature.
  • Hanoi - Water puppet show.
  • Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh Complex.
  • Hanoi - Lunch at KOTO.
  • Hanoi - Museum of Ethnology.
  • Hue - Cyclo Tour.
  • Hue - Royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc.
  • Hue - Imperial City Full Day Tour.
  • Hue - Lavin House Craft Experience.
  • Hoi An - Old Town walking tour.
  • Hoi An - White Rose Cake cooking class.
  • Ho Chi Minh City - Orientation Walk.
  • Mekong Delta - Homestay and Boat Cruise.
  • Mekong Delta - Local market visit.
Departure dates
Start End Availability Price NZD
16 Dec 2023 28 Dec 2023 4 $2,411
18 Dec 2023 30 Dec 2023 8 $2,286
19 Dec 2023 31 Dec 2023 7 $2,377
21 Dec 2023 02 Jan 2024 1 $2,788
22 Dec 2023 03 Jan 2024 4 $2,788
27 Dec 2023 08 Jan 2024 4 $2,809
29 Dec 2023 10 Jan 2024 4 $2,809
30 Dec 2023 11 Jan 2024 7 $2,446
03 Jan 2024 15 Jan 2024 4 $2,820
10 Jan 2024 22 Jan 2024 1 $2,466
12 Jan 2024 24 Jan 2024 8 $2,264
24 Mar 2024 05 Apr 2024 1 $2,512
27 Mar 2024 08 Apr 2024 10 $2,241
28 Mar 2024 09 Apr 2024 14 $2,241
29 Mar 2024 10 Apr 2024 6 $2,333
30 Mar 2024 11 Apr 2024 3 $2,512
31 Mar 2024 12 Apr 2024 5 $2,443
01 Apr 2024 13 Apr 2024 1 $2,310
02 Apr 2024 14 Apr 2024 8 $2,264
03 Apr 2024 15 Apr 2024 10 $2,241
04 Apr 2024 16 Apr 2024 16 $2,241
05 Apr 2024 17 Apr 2024 11 $2,241
06 Apr 2024 18 Apr 2024 7 $2,241
07 Apr 2024 19 Apr 2024 16 $2,241
08 Apr 2024 20 Apr 2024 16 $2,241
10 Apr 2024 22 Apr 2024 12 $2,241
14 Apr 2024 26 Apr 2024 3 $2,466
15 Apr 2024 27 Apr 2024 13 $2,241
28 Jun 2024 10 Jul 2024 16 $2,241
29 Jun 2024 11 Jul 2024 3 $2,421
30 Jun 2024 12 Jul 2024 8 $2,264
02 Jul 2024 14 Jul 2024 12 $2,241
04 Jul 2024 16 Jul 2024 16 $2,241
05 Jul 2024 17 Jul 2024 8 $2,264
06 Jul 2024 18 Jul 2024 13 $2,264
08 Jul 2024 20 Jul 2024 10 $2,241
11 Jul 2024 23 Jul 2024 16 $2,241
13 Jul 2024 25 Jul 2024 14 $2,241
21 Jul 2024 02 Aug 2024 12 $2,241
26 Jul 2024 07 Aug 2024 12 $2,241
27 Jul 2024 08 Aug 2024 12 $2,241
30 Jul 2024 11 Aug 2024 16 $2,241
02 Aug 2024 14 Aug 2024 3 $2,310
07 Aug 2024 19 Aug 2024 16 $2,241
10 Aug 2024 22 Aug 2024 16 $2,241
16 Aug 2024 28 Aug 2024 11 $2,241
18 Sep 2024 30 Sep 2024 14 $2,241
19 Sep 2024 01 Oct 2024 16 $2,241
20 Sep 2024 02 Oct 2024 16 $2,241
21 Sep 2024 03 Oct 2024 16 $2,241
22 Sep 2024 04 Oct 2024 16 $2,241
24 Sep 2024 06 Oct 2024 16 $2,241
01 Oct 2024 13 Oct 2024 16 $2,771
19 Oct 2024 31 Oct 2024 16 $2,636
16 Dec 2024 28 Dec 2024 16 $2,636
17 Dec 2024 29 Dec 2024 16 $2,636
19 Dec 2024 31 Dec 2024 12 $2,636
20 Dec 2024 01 Jan 2025 16 $2,636
22 Dec 2024 03 Jan 2025 16 $2,636
24 Dec 2024 05 Jan 2025 16 $2,636
25 Dec 2024 06 Jan 2025 16 $2,636
26 Dec 2024 07 Jan 2025 16 $2,636
27 Dec 2024 08 Jan 2025 16 $2,636
28 Dec 2024 09 Jan 2025 16 $2,636
30 Dec 2024 11 Jan 2025 6 $2,663