Smiling Albino

Intro

Total Trip - 13 days

Burning incense, mythical dragons, breakneck development, lush green rice fields, golden beaches, vibrant youth and cold war relics - all describe today's Vietnam.

From the northern capital of Hanoi where modern and medieval Asia meet to cruising past towering limestone karst mountains at Halong Bay, to cycling the ancient imperial capital of Hue, paddling quirky boats at China Beach and dodging a million motorcycles in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), prepare to be dazzled as you travel north to south through a vibrant nation on the move.

Built by hand in true Smiling Albino fashion this exploration combines everything that has made our adventures famous: a cultural blend of stylish lodgings, great food, a multitude of activities, seamless transitions, supreme hosts and of course, big fun. This is the most comprehensive experience in Vietnam in less than two weeks.

Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Vietnam

Upon arrival we'll be waiting with a big smile and escort you to one of the coolest hotels in the city. Settle-in and hit the town for a huge welcome feast, introducing you to a host of Vietnamese culinary delights. For those still with energy we'll hit the town and tilt a few at Hanoi's top-haunts. While in Hanoi you'll stay at the Maison D'Hanoi Havona Hotel. You're really here!

Meals: D

Day 2: Hanoi Inside Out

When in Hanoi, see it like a local. Mount a cyclo (three-wheeled chariot) for a cruise through the French Quarter where old meets new and youthful exuberance is in the air. Today you see all the key sites - Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, Museum of Ethnology, Hanoi Hilton, then round-out the day with a private dinner in a Vietnamese home.

Meals: B,L,D

Day 3: Red River Delta

In contrast to yesterday, today you'll experience quiet, rural Vietnam at a slow pace. We'll drive about 20km to Bac Ninh province, the cradle Vietnamese culture and mount bicycles for a ride along the Red River Dyke, visiting farmers, ancient pagodas and local artisans, and take lunch at a village where snakes are farmed - the daring will have a chance to try a variety of slithery dishes! Tonight, paint the town red!

Biking: 20 km
Meals: B,L

Day 4: Halong Bay

Get ready for the dazzling UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay where limestone islands rise straight from the ocean creating a surreal backdrop. You'll enjoy a stateroom on one of the best junks, the Huong Hai Junk equipped with a Jacuzzi tub, sundeck, bar and restaurant as you spend the day cruising, kayaking, feasting on seafood and squid fishing on a local boat by night.

Meals: B,L,D

Day 5: Cat Ba National Park

Enjoy a full day cruising Halong's Cat Ba National Park, kayaking through caves, visiting a floating fishing village, enjoy an exclusive seafood BBQ on a secluded beach, relax on the sundeck and enjoy an unforgettable day in paradise!

Meals: B,L,D

Day 6: To Hoi An

We'll cruise back to port in the morning, transfer to Hanoi airport for our flight to Da Nang, then a final jaunt takes us to the charming seaside town of Hoi An. One of Vietnam's top destinations, this traditionally sleepy fishing village is home to locals trading their wares, charming thoroughfares and gorgeous beaches.

As the sun sets we'll enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the Thu Bon River to a riverside restaurant and a Vietnamese feast. While in Hoi An you'll stay at the Vinh Hung Riverside Resort.

Meals: B,L,D

Day 7: Everything Hoi An

For early-risers visit the Fish and Central markets to see locals preparing for their day, set out on a walking exploration of interesting nooks and crannies, then hop on a bike and head further afield into the countryside where we'll try our hand at making silk lanterns and herb farming with locals. Take a load off with a foot massage before riding to the ocean to try your hand at rowing a 'coracle fishing boat' which is super-tipsy. Tonight is yours to enjoy.

Biking: 25 km
Meals: B,L

Day 8: Hike, Cook, Pedal

Today's an early morning but well worth it. We'll take Jeeps to Marble Moutain and hike to a mountaintop pagoda to catch sunrise and explore some caves. Enjoy a free afternoon as you wish, then in the late afternoon we'll learn Vietnamese cooking, preparing our own dinner. Top things off with cyclo (bicycle rickshaw) races and you've had another amazing day.

Meals: B,D

Day 9: To Hue

Pedal-power is the order of the day as we cycle towards our next destination Hue, passing quaint villages, fantastic white sandy beaches, endless green rice paddies and over three mountain passes, making our way across Vietnam's geographical and psychological boundary between the north and south. You can bike as little or as much as you like on this day.

At Hue relish in a one-hour spa treatment to soothe those legs then an exclusive dinner at the private home of Mr. Phan Thuan An, a famous historian who'll share insights into the area and his Mandarin family's history. In Hue you'll stay at the Pilgrimage Village.

Biking: 0 - 140 km
Meals: B,L,D

Day 10: Historical Hue

Known as the Imperial City and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hue was home to the Nguyen Dynasty from 1805-1945, making it one of Vietnam's most historically important sites. We'll explore by motorcycle as we visit the Forbidden City, Tu Duc Tomb, take lunch with monks and Ho Quyen where Nguyen Emperors and Mandarins held fights between elephants and tigers. We'll return to the resort by mid-afternoon and cut the cord for the rest of the day.

Meals: B
Motorbiking: 40 km

Day 11: Bustling Ho Chi Minh City

Spend the morning with a famous lacquer ware artist, having a go at this Vietnamese art before flying south to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) where you'll be knocked-out by its contrast to Hanoi. Tonight it's out on the town for a local favorite,'Bo Tung Xeo', fresh beef marinated in Vietnamese sauce, barbequed over charcoal at your table. Drinks anyone? You'll stay at the Rex Hotel while in Ho Chi Minh City.

Meals: B,D

Day 12: Cu Chi tunnels

Rise early for an amazing trip to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels where Vietcong dug some 250km of passageways from the Cambodian border towards what was then Saigon, eventually capturing it. Make your way through these tight tunnels and marvel at the scale of this incredible construction. The afternoon takes us to Notre Dame Cathedral, Ho Chi Minh City Hall and some free time to enjoy on your own. Bring your appetite for a huge farewell dinner cruising along the Saigon River.

Meals: B,L,D

Day 13: Homeward Bound

Enjoy the morning/day as you wish, then we'll transfer you to the airport for your flight onwards. What a journey it's been! Hen Gap Lai - See you again!

Meals: B

See a video of this trip

See videos of this trip: Video 1 - Video 2

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FAQs

What kind of bikes and equipment do you provide on this trip?

We use high-quality, 24-speed Shimano-equipped mountain bikes, with front suspension. A variety of bike sizes are available to accommodate all riders. In addition to your bike, we provide bike helmets, riding gloves, safety lights and water bottles. You are of course welcome to bring your own equipment as well. A hydration pack is a handy item to bring along, as well as clip-less pedals and your favorite bike seat if you're attached to one.

What is the cycling like?

You'll ride well-paved roads, dirt roads and some single-track. We'll ride between 35-80km each riding day, with a total distance of 300km. The rides are best suited to riders with a good deal of prior riding experience, but are modifiable. It is common to have a variety of cycling abilities on the same trip. A full-time support vehicle will follow us on biking days providing assistance to any riders in need of a break or service. Ample water, electrolyte beverages and snacks are always provided. Daily riding maps also enhance the journey.

How much hiking will we do?

During our days on the trail, we'll walk for 4-6 hours, covering about 15km each day. Paths are dirt and occasionally steep. A general level of fitness and appreciation of hiking will prepare you for these outings.

Can I bring my own bike?

Sure, we understand that riding your own bike is important - nothing else fits as well or feels as good. We'll help move your bike from Bangkok to Chiang Rai, then help assemble it and package it up again at the end of your journey. Thai Airways allows your checked bike (packed in a box) as a piece of luggage, so getting it up north is no problem.

What kind of clothing & equipment is specific to this trip?

For the cycling portions on this trip you might want to bring cycling shorts and shirt. We provide helmets, gloves, bottles, etc., but you are of course welcome to bring your own.

What kind of clothing should I bring?

Travel in clothing you feel comfortable wearing in hot weather for an entire day. Quick-dry, wick-away fabric is ideal for active days. For a more on this subject, check out What to Pack.

What if it rains?

Our adventures run year-round, rain or shine. During the rainy season (July-Oct) it's a good idea to bring an umbrella and be prepared to get a bit wet. When it really pours we take shelter, enjoy a beverage and let it pass, which is usually quickly - then we'll continue exploring. It's a great experience to see a SE Asian rain shower up close!

Our group includes a variety of ages, interests and abilities - will we enjoy the same trip?

Yes, our adventures are flexible. If one member of your group doesn't want to ride a bike, we'll have a van waiting while you enjoy a good pedal. You may not want to ride a motorscooter, so you can enjoy the comfort of our van or even try riding on the back of your guide's bike for a while. We are experienced in ensuring everyone has their own perfect holiday while traveling together.

Read our Testimonials to learn more about how flexible our trips are.

Have more questions?

We have lots more information in our Travel Tips section that will give you an idea of what it's like to travel with Smiling Albino. You can read more on food, weather, language, history and culture, see where you'll be travelling, and maybe find a book or two that you can read before your adventure.

Visit the Travel Tips area.

 

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Trip Gallery

Upgrade Options

Like to stay an extra night before or after your Vietnam Adventure?

Pre-trip nights in Hanoi: Maison d'Hanoi Hanova Hotel $105US/night.
Post-trip nights in Ho Chi Minh City: Rex Hotel $165US/night.

Need time on the beach when you're done? Our Thailand beach escapes are second to none.

Smiling Albino has an extensive selection of amazing beach resorts and destinations. Check out our options and let us know if we can add a beach escape to your trip.

Flights to & from Bangkok can be arranged.

Need a flight to Bangkok before or after your Vietnam adventure?

Should you require return airfare from Bangkok we'll arrange it to fit your schedule, contact us for current prices on this flight.

Need a hotel in Bangkok before or after the trip?

Either downtown or at the airport we can accomodate you.

Downtown: Majestic Grande $115US/night or the Four Seasons $300US/pp/night (double) or $600US/pp/night (single).
Airport: Novotel Suvarnabhumi $220US/night.

Like to customize this adventure as a private trip?

Any of our trips can be changed up and moved around to give you the perfect experience. Take a look at one of our custom trip examples and let us know what we can do for you.

 

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