Home/All Experiences/Beyond the Horizon: Vietnam's Grand Private Family Voyage
10days
Starting from
$4,500
per person*
Beyond the Horizon: Vietnam's Grand Private Family Voyage
Hanoi, Halong, Hoian, Ho Chi Minh
Best time to visit: Jan - Apr & Nov - Dec
An entire 10-suite Nostalgia cruise privatised for the families, sailing Ha Long into quieter Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island
A fleet of 13 vintage motorcycle sidecars with a support van, sweeping the family through Hanoi's hidden backstreet maze
A private Water Puppet show in a three-generation artisan family's home theatre - one of their puppets is displayed at the Louvre
The Cu Chi Tunnels finale returning to Saigon by private speedboat, with picnic snacks and drinks on board
Family-perfected room mastery: six suites and rooms at Capella Hanoi, four nights at Four Seasons Nam Hai and Park Hyatt suites with dining credit
"At All Asia Vacation, luxury journey begins with what you see on the itinerary - and is completed by the quiet certainty that everything behind it has already been taken care of."
A travel experience like no other
This sample itinerary was created by experts and is meant to inspire your next trip. It is ready to be customized to suit your interests, tastes and Budget so you can connect with local cultures and experience authentic travel on your own terms and departing whenever you choose.
Day 1-2: Hanoi * Welcome to Hanoi Evening Orientation * Hanoi Backstreets by Vintage Motorcycle Sidecar * Private Water Puppets at an Artisan Family Home
Day 3-4: Ha Long Bay * Private 10-Cabin Nostalgia Cruise on Ha Long & Lan Ha Bay * Trung Trang Cave, Kayaking & Sunrise Tai Chi
Day 5-7: Hoi An * Everything Hoi An by Bike & Market Walk * Hoi An Countryside by Vespa * Romantic Bamboo Raft Dinner
Day 8-10: Saigon * Cu Chi Tunnels and Back to City by Private Speedboat * Saigon's Chinatown and Historical District by Cyclo * International Departure from Saigon
Itinerary
DAY 1: HANOI
INTERNATIONAL ARRIVAL WITH VIP FAST TRACK SERVICE
Welcome to Vietnam! Upon touchdown at Hanoi's Noi Bai International Airport you will be met right at the airplane's arrival gate by friendly Fast Track Service staff. You will be whisked through immigration via the diplomatic lane, have your luggage retrieved and carried, and be delivered to your Hanoi host waiting for you in the Arrival Hall. A private vehicle will be ready to take you to your hotel.
WELCOME TO HANOI
3 hours 30 minutes
This afternoon we'll head out to explore the hotel's neighborhood area and step into vintage Hanoi with a little historical overview, a traditional Vietnamese coffee, and a glimpse of Hanoians at work, rest and play around the city's largest natural landmark. There is no better place to get oriented. We'll cap off the evening with some mouth-watering authentic Vietnamese cuisine at one of the city's excellent restaurants.
DAY 2: HANOI
HANOI BACKSTREETS BY VINTAGE MOTORCYCLE SIDECAR
Duration: 5 hours
Today is a fun time! We will explore the city in an open-air Vintage Motorcycle Sidecar. All guests have to do in our special Sidecar is sit back and relax. Our guide will show the true vibrant life of the locals, as well as famous sights. We will drive through a maze of alleyways known ONLY by locals, make contact with people and get to know the behind-the-scenes stories.
We'll head into the narrow maze of winding, zigzagging back streets and alleyways where you'll have the opportunity to experience authentic, behind the scenes Hanoi. Suddenly, we'll find ourselves in the middle of the biggest second-hand electronics and mechanics market in Vietnam where you can buy anything from a spare tire for a US Army Jeep to a Chinese bicycle pedal. Leaving this ""black market"" behind, we'll visit a Hanoian family home to see close-up how the locals live and understand more about how Hanoi has changed over the last few decades. The adventure continues with the short journey to West Lake which most visitors don't have the chance to see. This is a high-end area with botanical gardens, cafes, restaurants and nightlife venues edging Hanoi's largest freshwater lake.
Discover a hidden village where you'll find mouthwatering food stalls run by local families. This is a perfect time to treat ourselves to the most authentic local cuisine. We'll sample a few morsels before heading to a coffeeshop to find out why locals call their unique 'egg coffee' the cappuccino of Vietnam.
PRIVATE WATER PUPPETS
Duration: 1 hour
Water puppetry is uniquely Vietnamese but has recently been limited to large theaters. However, there's a local family of skilled artisans who've honed the craft for three generations. They've transformed a house floor into a mini theater where we can witness a private 30-minute puppet performance. It's an authentic and memorable way to support local artists preserving this traditional art. This family, with three generations of expertise, even has a water puppet showcased at the Louvre Museum.
Join us for a private 30-minute puppet performance, followed by a hands-on experience of puppet manipulation and an exploration of the intricate craftsmanship rarely seen in larger venues. Enjoy the intimate ambiance of their home while savoring warm tea and conversing with our friendly hosts. To reach the artist's residence, you'll stroll through narrow alleyways, delving into the authentic daily life of a Hanoian.
DAY 3: HA LONG BAY
HANOI TO HA LONG BAY & PRIVATE NOSTALGIA CRUISE (DAY 1)
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes (private transfer)
Then afternoon and evening aboard
No trip to Northern Vietnam is complete without a visit to Ha Long Bay, a remarkable seascape of lush, rainforest-clad limestone islands and pillars jutting out of the surrounding emerald blue water as far as the eye can see. And there is no better way to experience this UNESCO World Heritage Site than by sailing through the calm, scenic waters on board an elegantly designed and high-standard Chinese Junk ship.
We will drive from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay where, upon arrival, your crew will welcome everyone aboard the ship and set sail into the Bay. Situate yourself on the deck and take in the never ending parade of karsts, caves, and coves passing by on all sides.
FIRST DAY: HANOI - TUAN CHAU ISLAND - HALONG BAY - LAN HA BAY
(Lunch & Dinner)
Arrive at Tuan Chau Marina and complete check-in procedures in the waiting lounge while enjoying a welcoming tea. Transfer to Nostalgia Cruise by tender boat. Enjoy a welcome drink at the restaurant while receiving a cruise briefing and safety instructions for your trip. Lunch will be served while Nostalgia disembarks into Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In the afternoon, transfer by tender to Cat Ba Island. Ride to Trung Trang Cave by bus. The cave runs 300 meters through the mountain and has a mysterious beauty due to geological tectonics over the last million years, as well as many historical relics. The cave has many stalactites with different shapes that stimulate the human imagination and amaze visitors.
Back to the boat, Nostalgia Cruise enters a less-populated area at Tra Bau of Lan Ha Bay. Enjoy a nice swim in the green, emerald water. On board, you may participate in a cooking demonstration where we cook traditional Vietnamese food. Enjoy Happy Hour (buy one, get one free) at the bar while watching the sunset over the bay. Savour a fusion dinner made with the freshest ingredients in the restaurant: elegant French neoclassical style mixed with traditional oriental touches.
A tea ceremony is served at the restaurant. You will learn how to enjoy Vietnamese tea and Vietnamese culture at this ceremony. Later, it's time to admire the beauty of the night on the bay. The bar on the sundeck and in the restaurant welcomes you. You may want to try your luck with squid fishing or play some board games in the restaurant. Overnight on board.
DAY 4: HA LONG BAY TO HOI AN
NOSTALGIA CRUISE (DAY 2) & FLIGHT TO CENTRAL VIETNAM
SECOND DAY: LAN HA BAY - HALONG BAY - HANOI (Breakfast & Lunch)
Why not rise early to witness the bay at its very best whilst enjoying an invigorating Tai Chi session on the sundeck; after which we will be serving a light breakfast. Upon completing breakfast we continue our journey and head out to explore the bay in the area where the Sang Toi cave is situated. Enjoy kayaking at the Ao Ech area to discover the hidden charm of Lan Ha Bay. Return to the Nostalgia Cruises boat for check-out procedures. Whilst cruising back you can enjoy a delightful brunch, before bidding farewell at Tuan Chau port.
Time to say goodbye to Northern Vietnam! You will be picked up from the pier and transferred to the airport for your onward flight (the drive from Halong Bay Pier to Hanoi Airport is around 2.5 hours).
Welcome to Central Vietnam! Upon touchdown in Da Nang, collect your luggage and make your way to the arrivals hall where your friendly Hoi An host will be waiting for you. A transfer vehicle will be ready to take you to your hotel. A lovely, culturally-endowed town, Hoi An is one of the most picturesque places in Vietnam. We can't wait to show you its many charms!
DAY 5: HOI AN - EVERYTHING HOI AN
Duration: 6 hours
Hoi An is one of Vietnam's most elegant and historic towns. A major maritime trading center for centuries, Hoi An hosts beautifully preserved and diverse architecture, delicious food, and lots of opportunities for exploration. Today, we will bask in a little bit of everything Hoi An has to offer.
For early risers, a visit to the fish and central markets is like going back in time when life in Hoi An centered around these markets. Watch locals preparing for their day, then set out on a walking exploration of interesting nooks and crannies. Next, hop on a bike and head further afield to the countryside where, after enjoying the Vietnamese rural scenery along the way, we'll stop at the village of Go Noi. Here we'll get an insight into the life of farming communities (growing incredible organic vegetables), receive a cooking demonstration and dig into a local gourmet feast.
The afternoon is clear for shopping, beach time or just taking in the atmosphere in this charming town.
DAY 6: HOI AN - HOI AN COUNTRYSIDE BY VESPA
Duration: 6 hours
Today we'll jump on the back of classic vespa scooters and travel like the locals do, allowing us to cover more ground and venture further afield, away from the tourist areas. We'll begin by exploring the ancient town, taking in the main UNESCO sites and wind through hidden alleys and backroads to experience the authentic local way of life in Hoi An. Then we'll head out of town for an exciting journey through picturesque paddy fields into the scenic countryside.
We'll visit a local farm where you can learn about the cultivation of rice, vegetables, and grains. Gain insight into the daily routines of the farmers and discover the traditional method of making rice wine. If you're up for it, enjoy a glass or two! We'll then head to a local family's residence for a delectable home-cooked feast. Indulge in mouthwatering dishes that showcase the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. This unique dining experience offers an intimate glimpse into the home life of the locals.
After lunch, we'll take a moment to unwind and savor a delicious cup of local tea amidst the photogenic surroundings. As the day comes to a close, bid farewell to our gracious hosts and head to the mangroves and wetlands area of Hoi An. Immerse yourself in the unique and enjoyable experience of riding in a bamboo basket boat (coracles), gliding gracefully through the river's tributaries.
DAY 7: HOI AN - FREE MORNING AT LEISURE & ROMANTIC BAMBOO RAFT DINNER
Duration: 4 hours (evening experience, timed to catch the sunset at just the right moment)
Enjoy a free morning at leisure.
Set in Hoi An's scenic Cua Dai estuary, this evening's enchanting experience takes you on a short sunset cruise through the mangroves in an iconic hand-woven reed conical boat. You'll experience local riverside life and watch fishermen cast nets one last time for the day as the sun sets.
Around a bend in the river, you'll discover your private candle-lit dining experience waiting for you. Here, you'll be seated atop a sturdy bamboo raft, creating an atmosphere of unparalleled romance and charm. As you settle in, a sumptuous feast of fresh river delicacies awaits, featuring the day's catch and an array of crisp, locally sourced vegetables served as delectable appetizers.
The highlight, undoubtedly, is the opportunity to witness one of the most awe-inspiring sunsets that graces this charming town. This sensory spectacle is sure to leave an indelible mark on your memory.
DAY 8: HOI AN & SAIGON
DANANG TRANSFER & DEPARTURE TO SAIGON
Time to say goodbye to Hoi An! You will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to Da Nang airport for your onward flight to Saigon. The drive from Hoi An to Da Nang International Airport is around one hour.
SAIGON:
ARRIVAL WITH VIP FAST TRACK SERVICE, VISIT CU CHI TUNNELS AND BACK TO CITY BY PRIVATE SPEEDBOAT
Duration: 5 hours
Welcome to Saigon! Upon touchdown at Saigon's Tan Son Nhat International Airport you will be met right at the airplane's arrival gate by friendly Fast Track Service staff. You will be whisked through immigration via the diplomatic lane, have your luggage retrieved and carried, and be delivered to your private Saigon host waiting for you in the arrivals hall.
Depart from the airport and continue head into the Cu Chi Tunnels where the Vietcong dug 250 kilometers of underground passageways from the Cambodian border towards Saigon, eventually capturing the city. It's astounding to see what they constructed and you'll have the opportunity to squeeze through some of these very narrow tunnels. This visit builds an appreciation for the tenacity and sacrifices of the Vietnamese people.
A private speedboat with a picnic snack and drinks on board is a fun and luxurious way to make our return journey back to Saigon.
DAY 9: SAIGON
SAIGON'S CHINATOWN AND HISTORICAL DISTRICT
Duration: 7 hours 30 minutes
Today we'll hit the town by three-wheeled cyclo. A vintage and slow-paced way of getting around, we'll head to Cholon, Saigon's Chinatown, where we can roam around the old spice district as well as the colorful and sensory Binh Tay Market. We will also get pedaled to Giac Lam Pagoda, one of the city's oldest Buddhist temples.
The morning ride through markets will no doubt leave us building up an appetite. Lunch will be one of the most classic and ubiquitous of Vietnamese dishes: pho noodle soup. Saigon is considered by many to have the best pho in Vietnam. We'll let you be the judge before enjoying a coffee in the park and continuing our exploration of Saigon's historical district on foot in the afternoon.
DAY 10: VIETNAM - SEE YOU AGAIN!
Time to say goodbye to Vietnam! You will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to Saigon's Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your onward flight.
Accommodations
NIGHT 1-2
CAPELLA HANOI
Opera-Inspired Design: Designed by renowned architect Bill Bensley, the hotel features Art Nouveau and Deco styles, with 47 rooms decorated in an opera theme, each telling a unique story. Prime Location: Situated on Le Phung Hieu Street, the hotel is just steps from the Hanoi Opera House and near Hoan Kiem Lake, making it convenient for exploring the Old Quarter and other famous attractions. High-Class Cuisine: The hotel boasts Koki Restaurant, one of Hanoi's few highly-rated Japanese restaurants, along with Backstage and Diva's Lounge, offering a diverse and sophisticated culinary experience. Personalized Service: The Capella Culturists team is always ready to assist guests with unique cultural experiences such as cooking classes, backstage tours of the Hanoi Opera House, and other artistic activities. Luxurious amenities: The hotel offers high-end amenities such as the Auriga Spa, an artfully designed indoor swimming pool, a modern gym, and airport shuttle service.
NIGHT 3
NOSTALGIA CRUISES (PRIVATE 10-CABIN CHARTER), HA LONG & LAN HA BAY
Floating on the emerald waters of Lan Ha Bay, Nostalgia Cruises brings passengers back to the previous centuries, where they have a chance to immerse in the magnificent historic architecture of Vietnam. The cruise ship is one of a kind as it is perfectly designed to reconstruct the history of the Nguyen Dynasty and its royal architecture. On the magnificent Nostalgia, guests can enjoy the most authentic traditional experience while travelling back to the ancient time in unique, special patterned and limited suites. Boutique cruise with only 10 suites on board, privatised for the group, cruising from Halong Bay to Lan Ha Bay and exploring Cat Ba Island. Includes: English speaking tour guide on boat; all meals aboard (lunch, dinner, breakfast, brunch); kayaking, cooking class, Tai Chi exercise, swimming (weather permitting), movies, squid fishing, music entertainment, local wine experience, tea ceremony; sightseeing entrance fees; luxury air-conditioned cabins; welcome drink and fresh fruit.
NIGHT 4 - 7
FOUR SEASONS THE NAM HAI HOI AN
Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An stands out with the following features: Prime Location: Situated on Ha My Beach, the resort is nestled between three UNESCO World Heritage sites: Hoi An Ancient Town, My Son Sanctuary, and Hue Imperial City. Architectural Design: Designed by architect Reda Amalou, the resort blends traditional Vietnamese and modern architectural styles, creating a luxurious and inviting atmosphere. Diverse Amenities: The resort offers a variety of amenities including an infinity pool, spa, gym, restaurants serving diverse cuisine, and a bar. Professional Service: Friendly and professional staff are always ready to assist guests with services such as airport transfers, tours, and local cultural experiences.
NIGHT 8 - 9
PARK HYATT SAIGON
Experience urban opulence that melds sophistication, artisanal craftsmanship, and contemporary amenities at the exquisite Park Hyatt Saigon. Situated in the heart of vibrant Ho Chi Minh City, Park Hyatt Saigon overlooks the regal Opera House in Lam Son Square. Stroll to iconic landmarks like Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, and the Reunification Palace, or indulge in some retail therapy on Dong Khoi street. This classic hotel in District 1 boasts 245 rooms, including 23 luxurious suites, all recently refurbished to a standard that marries classical French colonial aesthetics with cutting-edge tech, like in-room iPads, Nespresso machines, and sensor lighting. For those who savor extra space and artistry, the suites are a haven. Each comes complete with a separate living area and a curated collection of oil paintings, antiques, lacquerware, and handwoven art by renowned Vietnamese artists. Embark on a culinary journeylike no other at Park Hyatt Saigon. Square One, its signature eatery, fuses authentic Vietnamese and French flavors. Meanwhile, Opera whisks you away to Italy, serving up traditional dishes in a charming trattoria ambiance.
Notes
MADE TO ORDER • Choose from a range of places to stay, from impeccable five-star hotels to equally outstanding boutique ones. • Tailor your trip to include a wide variety of activities, from the must-see’s to the lesser-known, local experiences, and even the exclusive ones you may not know about. • With no fixed dates or set schedules, you can explore on your terms. • Whether you’re celebrating one of life’s big moments or looking to fulfill a personal journey, we always work with you to ensure we’re creating a trip-of-a-lifetime.
WHAT'S INCLUDED • 24/7 in-destination support from our local team • Accommodation, scheduled experiences and transfers included, unless noted otherwise • Private driver for experiences and transfers • Private local English speaking guides as confirmed in your final itinerary • Vietnam single-entry e-visa • Fast-track service upon international arrival • Meet-and-greet upon arrival at the airport or your accommodation • Daily hotel breakfast, plus meals listed in the itinerary
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED • International airfare, unless arranged through our Air Team • Travel insurance • Tips and gratuities • Meals, unless specified • Personal expenses such as laundry, calls, SIM cards or room service • Early check-in or late check-out, unless specified • Additional activities or sightseeing outside your itinerary • Optional upgrades, enhancements or local camera/video fees • Passport fees, immunizations and local departure taxes, where applicable • Any services not specifically mentioned in the itinerary
PRICING TERMS • Aboved quotation based on selected hotels or alternative ones with the similar criteria if the original ones are not available • Signature services & special permission services subject to availablity and costs subject to change without prior notice • Hotel rates quoted are based on standard travel periods and do not include supplements applicable during public holidays, special dates, blackout periods, wholesale closures, or mandatory festive meals.
* USD per person, based on double occupancy. Prices are subject to change. As itineraries are custom-designed for you, the final price will vary and is also based on the month of travel.
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What you'll receive
Tailor-Made Journey Design
Every journey is individually crafted around your passions, pace and preferences, with seamless service, privileged access and thoughtful attention to every detail.
Over two decades of destination expertise, trusted relationships and flawless execution ensure access, flexibility, privacy and confidence throughout every journey.
Responsible Luxury
Luxury travel should leave a positive legacy - supporting local communities, preserving cultural heritage and protecting the natural environment for generations to come.
