Vietnam Luxury Honeymoon - 14 Days

Highlights

• Enjoy city tours and fine dining in Ho Chi Minh City
• Take a speedboat tour around the Mekong Delta
• Experience romance in the ancient river town of Hoi An
• Visit local villages in the mountainous Mai Chau region
• Cruise the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay in a private ship

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City, Fine Dining at Anan Saigon

Welcome to Vietnam! This Southeast Asian gem is the perfect locale for a honeymoon, as there are limitless options for romance, culture, and adventure. It's a naturally beautiful wonderland at once modern and steeped in almost mythic lore and history dating back thousands of years. Remnants of this heritage still exist today, and they span the eras, from imperial dynasties to French colonialism to the communist revolution and more. As a bonus, Vietnam is one of the world's great food cultures, which you'll discover upon your arrival in Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), the nation's largest metropolis.

At the airport, a personal driver will pick you up for the ride into the city and your hotel, the Reverie Saigon. Known for its opulent, European-inspired design, this is the country's only 6-star hotel, and it shows in the amenities. Besides the spacious rooms and suites, it boasts five gourmet restaurants serving everything from Italian cuisine to French-Vietnamese fusion. After checking in, you can head to one of the private treatment rooms at the Reverie's spa for some pampering. Then perhaps order a handcrafted cocktail at one of the extravagant hotel bars and enjoy it on the patio by the massive swimming pool. 

In the evening, you and your newlywed partner will change into formalwear and head out for a night of fine dining at Anan Saigon. Specializing in contemporary Vietnamese cuisine, chef Peter Cuong Franklin applies modern cooking techniques to street food recipes to create enticing flavors. The restaurant is consistently named one of the country's best by major publications, and in 2023 it became one of the first restaurants in Vietnam to be awarded a Michelin star. During this two-hour dining experience, you'll get to savor Vietnamese haute cuisine with a modern touch. 

Day 2: Saigon Vespa Tour, Sunset Dinner Cruise

This morning you'll embark on a private, half-day tour to experience Ho Chi Minh City like a true local—on a vintage-style Vespa. After a safety briefing, you'll hop on the back and hang on as your professional guide leads you around the city. Highlight landmarks you'll pass during the tour include the Reunification Palace (once the headquarters of the Saigon government), the People's Committee Building, City Hall, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, and the Saigon Opera House. 

One somber yet inspirational highlight is a stop at the Thich Quang Duc Monument, dedicated to the Buddhist monk and martyr who famously self-immolated in 1963 in protest of religious persecution. After riding around neighborhoods featuring some of the most historic houses in the city, you'll visit the 18th-century Thien Hau Temple and the Ben Thanh Market for some souvenir shopping before taking a lunch break. After eating, you'll transfer back to your hotel and have a few hours to relax.

Later in the afternoon, you'll head to the Saigon River and board the luxurious Saigon Princess for a three-hour cruise. It's a romantic ride that coincides with sunset, so from the sundeck you'll get to witness the last rays of light glimmering against the towering high rises of HCMC's skyline. Following this is a set dinner right on the boat, during which you'll enjoy gourmet dishes prepared by top chefs. Afterward, you'll return to the hotel.

Day 3: Mekong Delta Speedboat Tour

Leave at 8 am on a full-day private tour of the Mekong Delta. It begins when you meet your guide, transfer to the pier, and board a speedboat for the scenic ride south to the delta. As you enjoy a light breakfast on board, you'll pass beautiful rural landscapes. You'll also see the region's famous floating markets, where vendors ply the waterways selling fresh produce right from their boats. At around 10:30 am, you'll arrive in the Mekong, which abounds with rice paddies, sugar plantations, and coconut groves.

From here, the boat will turn off the main waterway into the small, winding canals of the Thu Thua area, where you'll enjoy a more leisurely ride as you pass under the shade of a canopy of palm fronds. Depending on the day's route, you'll either visit a traditional river house (whose owner keeps Burmese pythons as pets), a quaint Mekong village and surrounding rice paddies, and/or a traditional farmhouse where you'll sample coconuts and Mekong whiskey. Another option is to visit a local merchant and sample a variety of Mekong produce, whiskey, and wine.

Then walk along the banks of the river to a traditional rural Vietnamese house, where three generations of a family live together, before continuing to a charming village where you can try fresh coconuts right from the tree. After a break for lunch, you'll visit an orphanage run by Buddhist monks, followed by a stop at Cao Dai Temple. The Cao Dai faith is interesting because it combines elements from various world religions, including Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Christianity, and Indigenous Vietnamese beliefs. Later, you'll return to Ho Chi Minh by speedboat. 

Day 4: Fly to Da Nang, Transfer to Hoi An, Walking Tour

In the morning, meet your driver for the ride to the airport for the 1.5-hour flight north to Da Nang, on Vietnam's central coast. There, another driver will pick you up for the one-hour ride south toward the colorful and romantic river city of Hoi An. Sitting on the Thu Bon River, this historic city was a major trading port with the West from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Its international legacy is represented in the assortment of architectural styles in Hoi An's UNESCO-listed Ancient Town. 

Just north of the city, you'll check into your 5-star hotel, The Nam Hai. This Four Seasons luxury resort sits on its own private beach and features villas with private pools. As if that's not enough, The Nam Hai boasts three infinity pools right along the sand. Upon arrival, you'll have time to relax, swim, take a yoga class, or enjoy a gourmet meal on the beach.

Later, head into Hoi An for a three-hour private walking tour around Ancient Town. Explore old merchant houses that combine Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese architectural elements. Admire the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, built in the 1590s by Japanese immigrants to link them with the Chinese quarter across the stream. You'll also visit the Assembly Hall of the Chaozhou Chinese Congregation, which dates to 1845 and is remarkable for the artful carvings on its doors and altars. Afterward, stop at the Central Market to browse clothing, handicrafts, artwork, and leather goods, and more.

Day 5: Lantern Workshop, Cycling Cam Thanh & Farm Visit

After breakfast, you'll return to the city and participate in a private, hands-on workshop to discover the ancient art of lantern-making. Japanese settlers brought the first lanterns to this region in the 16th century, and they've been a cultural icon ever since. At the home of a local craftsman, you'll learn all about this rich history and then make your very own colorful paper lantern to take home.

Later, you'll embark on a half-day adventure to the gorgeous countryside near Hoi An. From the hotel, your personal driver will transfer you to the riverside village of Vong Nhi. There, you'll leave the car and hop on a bicycle for a 4-mile (6 km) ride through the country. During the scenic ride, you'll pass unspoiled rural scenes dotted with coconut forests, rice paddies, and prawn and red snapper farms.

At the end of the bike tour, you'll visit Thanh Dong, a 107,640-square-foot (10,000 sq m) organic farm tended to by 10 or so local families. Take a stroll around the vegetable garden and learn how the farmers here have been cultivating produce and herbs organically using the same traditional methods they have for centuries. You'll even join in gardening activities like sowing seeds and picking vegetables. At the end of the experience, you'll return to your hotel.

Day 6: Hoi An Free Day & Riverboat Dinner

Today is yours to enjoy Hoi An however you like. Take a leisurely walk or rent a bicycle for a ride along the quiet streets and scenic waterfront. Perhaps get measured for a custom-made outfit (Hoi An is famous for its expert tailors) or head to one of the white-sand beaches just north of the city. For lunch, make your way to one of the eateries in Ancient Town for a traditional Vietnamese dish like cao lau (Hoi An pork and noodles) or the famous banh mi sandwich. 

When the sun goes down, you'll hop aboard a traditional bamboo raft and head out on a romantic ride down the Thu Bon River (perfect for newlyweds). As you ply the tranquil waters with your loved one, you'll enjoy a gourmet meal on the boat. Complimenting this memorable culinary experience will be the colored lights from the riverbank glimmering on the surface of the water. At the end of the evening, you'll return to your hotel.

Day 7: Fly to Hanoi, Sky-High Dining

In the morning, your driver will pick you up for the ride back to the airport in Da Nang, where you'll catch a 1.5-hour flight north to Hanoi. Founded back in the third century BCE, this city has preserved many of its ancient landmarks. Highlights include the 11th-century Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first-ever national university, and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the final resting place of revolutionary leader "Uncle Ho," who died in 1969.

At the airport, a personal driver will pick you up at the terminal for the ride into the city and the Sofitel Legend Metropole. Located in the heart of Vietnam's Old Quarter near historic Hoan Kiem Lake, the Metropole is set in a luxurious French colonial estate dating to 1901. It's the perfect place to relax and unwind after a flight. Soothe your muscles with a relaxing massage at Le Spa, or perhaps enjoy a cocktail on the patio next to the heated pool.

In the evening, you and your spouse will get dressed up for an unforgettable dinner experience. The gourmet restaurant you'll be dining at tonight, Grill 63, is near the top of Lotte Center. Boasting 65 stories, this gleaming skyscraper is the tallest building in Hanoi. Grill 63 is part of the Lotte Hanoi, a 5-star luxury hotel, and, as its name suggests, is located on the 63rd floor. At this chic eatery, you can choose from a menu of contemporary European cuisine while enjoying breathtaking views of Hanoi's cityscape.

Day 8: Transfer to Mai Chau, Rural Village Walk

Wake up early and depart with your driver on a four-hour scenic trip west into the highlands to Mai Chau. Located in Hoa Binh province, Mai Chau is famed for its splendid vistas of mountains and valleys surrounded by lush landscapes and stilt houses, inhabited mainly by the White Thai ethnic group.

Amid this wonderland of verdant rice paddies and rolling green hills is your accommodation: Avana Retreat. This luxury mountain retreat covers 37 acres (15 ha) and integrates seamlessly with the surrounding rice fields, rolling green hills, and waterfalls. Besides its 36 mountainside villas, the hotel features gourmet restaurants utilizing fresh ingredients sourced from local farmers. Another highlight you won't find anywhere else is the famous Cloud Pool—a jaw-dropping infinity pool designed in the shape of terraced rice fields and offering unrivaled views of the surrounding countryside. 

You'll have plenty of time to relax later. Upon arrival, you'll drop off your bags and embark on a leisurely guided walk around the countryside. This 2.5-hour private hike follows a route that passes the most stunning countryside scenery. Your guide will lead you through ethnic villages, down deserted country roads, and even over hanging bridges—it's a great way to discover the land and meet the people who call it home. 

Day 9: Mai Chau Jeep Adventure, Waterfall Dining 

You've had some time to walk the countryside—today, you'll get to zip around Mai Chau in a Jeep. This 1.5-hour private excursion begins when you meet your driver in the morning at the hotel and hop in an authentic 1970s US military Jeep. Then set off on an off-road adventure that will take you past terraced rice fields and on wild mountain roads.

As you go, you'll also pass through ethnic Muong and Thai villages, where you'll meet more locals. Another highlight involves a rough-and-tumble drive through a bamboo forest and over the aptly named Heart Attack Hill. It's a bit challenging but also a fun and unforgettable experience. Afterward, you'll return to Avana, where you can spend the remainder of the day relaxing.

Later, you and your loved one are in for another romantic evening as you head to one of the area's famous waterfalls at sundown. Waiting for you will be a table set for two, where you can enjoy an intimate gourmet meal served by your own private butler as the nearby cascade plunges down into a romantic lagoon. At the end of the enchanting experience, you'll return to your hotel.

Day 10: Free Morning in Mai Chao, Transfer to Hanoi

Take the morning to enjoy the amenities on offer at Avana. After breakfast, you can spend some time relaxing by the Cloud Pool. Or head over to the Orchid Spa for a treatment. This spa/wellness center is designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding rainforest as winding bridges connect various cottages nestled in the wilderness. You can enjoy treatments like detox therapy, facials, massages, aromatherapy, and more here. Of course, there are couples treatments too.

In the early afternoon, meet your personal driver for the ride back to Hanoi. Upon arrival, you'll check back into the Metropole and can spend the rest of the day however you like. For another unforgettable meal, consider dinner at the opulent Le Beaulieu restaurant. Located in the hotel, you can enjoy haute French cuisine amid crystal chandeliers. There's also an impressive wine cellar featuring over 600 bottles from leading châteaux.

Day 11: Seaplane Flight to Ha Long Bay, Private Adventure Cruise

Check out of the Metropole in the morning and meet your driver for the ride to the airport, where you'll board a chartered seaplane for a flight north to the famous Ha Long Bay. During this 60-minute flight, you'll enjoy incredible views of northern Vietnam's Red River Delta, its vast rice paddies, and its rugged coast. Eventually, you'll touch down in Ha Long Bay. Located on the Gulf of Tonkin, over 1,000 karst islets rise above emerald waters, resembling the spine of a giant reptile (Ha Long translates to "descending dragon").

Here, you'll board a junk (a traditional Chinese sailboat) and embark on a two-day private cruise around the bay. Traveling in a refurbished fishing vessel like this is a great way to enjoy an intimate journey. After settling into your cabin, the ship will set sail to the first off-the-beaten-path destination: Bai Tu Long Bay. Here, you'll hop in a rowboat and head to Vung Vieng, one of the region's famous floating villages. During a stop, you'll meet locals and tour the facilities, including floating fish farms and even floating schools. Then return to the junk in time to enjoy a beautiful sunset followed by a romantic dinner.

Day 12: Full-Day Cong Dam Tour

If you like, wake up early to witness the sunrise over the bay. As you enjoy breakfast amid the stunning views, your boat will cruise to Cong Dam. This region is isolated from the normal tourist routes favored by the big cruise lines and thus is an unspoiled paradise. During a full-day tour, you'll enjoy various activities in these tranquil waters, including swimming and kayaking in secluded lagoons. You'll also enjoy a freshly prepared barbecue lunch on a hidden beach. Later in the day, after returning to the boat, you'll enjoy dinner on board.

Day 13: Caves & Water Puppet Show, Transfer to Hanoi

Make your last morning in Ha Long Bay count with a trip to visit limestone caves. After an al fresco breakfast on deck, the boat will cruise to Hon Co Island, where you'll head into Thien Canh Son Cave to tour its cathedral-like caverns filled with ancient stalactites and stalagmites. Afterward, you'll return to the boat and begin sailing back to the port in Ha Long Bay. An a la carte lunch will be served on board.

Once back at the harbor, you'll hop in a vehicle and transfer to Yen Duc village, in Dong Trieu province, for a short stop. This humble agricultural village has maintained its traditions, including the art of water puppetry. This cultural expression is believed to have originated in the flooded rice fields of the Red River Delta region, where villagers entertained themselves by using bamboo rods to move handmade wooden puppets through the water. Here in Yen Duc, you'll sit down and enjoy one of these shows, which depict scenes of rural life and important historical moments set to music.

Afterward, you'll make the 3.5-hour trip back to Hanoi. Check back into the Metropole and spend the rest of the day enjoying the hotel amenities.

Day 14: Depart Hanoi

Alas, you've reached the end of your whirlwind romance in Vietnam. No doubt you've made memories to tell the grandkids about. In the morning, your driver will pick you up for the ride to the airport, where you'll catch your flight home. Tam biet!

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