Best of Vietnam for Teenagers - 9 days
Best of Vietnam for Teenagers - 9 days
9 Days Starting in Hanoi and ending in Ho Chi Minh City
Visiting: Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City
Tour operator:
Tour code:
2302/FBVT
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 18
Age range:
Family tours – designed for families with children of any age between 5 – 18yrs. Teenager tours – for families with teenagers 12 years and above (we will allow 10+ and 11 years if necessary) provided they are accompanied by an adult.
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Please contact On The Go Tours with specific dietary requests
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Tour Overview
Take your teenagers to Vietnam for a holiday of adventure, culture and fun. Explore the backstreets of Hanoi by cyclo and sail around the limestone peaks of heavenly Halong Bay. Cycle to Cam Thanh Farm and enjoy some R&R in Hoi An before winging your way to bustling Ho Chi Minh City. This tour welcomes families with teens and pre-teens aged 10 years and above.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Hanoi
Location: Hanoi
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: La Dolce Vita Hotel
Wednesday. Welcome to Hanoi. Upon arrival you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is free for you and your family to explore the city, with its picturesque tree-lined avenues, scenic lakes, ancient pagodas and bustling old town, all which are easily accessible by foot. At 6pm there will be a Welcome Meeting in the hotel lobby.
Day 2: Halong Bay
Location: Halong Bay
Accommodation: Bhaya Classic, Halong Bay
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hanoi – Halong Bay. This morning a scenic drive takes us to picturesque UNESCO Listed Halong Bay, where rugged karst islands dappled with lush vegetation rise from the pristine emerald coloured waters. Here we board a deluxe junk boat for an overnight cruise.
Based on traditional designs, these wonderful vessels combine oriental style with modern luxury. Soak up the panoramic views from the sundeck as the boat gently plies its course. This afternoon we visit Trinh Nu Cave, one of the finest caves in Halong Bay, covering an area of 2,000m² with a stunning array of stalactites and stalagmites. There's also the opportunity to go kayaking and swim in the bay.
Later this evening back on board, watch a Vietnamese cooking demonstration held on the sundeck before settling down for a sumptuous seafood dinner.
Day 3: Halong Bay
Location: Halong Bay
Accommodation: Sleeper train
Accommodation Name: Overnight: Sleeper train
Meals Included: Breakfast
Halong Bay - Hanoi - Hue. Early birds can start the day with a relaxing Tai Chi class on the sundeck or a traditional massage - the perfect way to start the day. Before heading back to port this morning, we explore the beautiful Sung Sot cave (Surprise Grotto), which is 10,000m² and consists of two major chambers which are spectacular and spacious enough to hold thousands of people.
Arriving back to Hanoi mid-afternoon we explore the maze of streets known as the ‘36 streets of the old quarter’ aboard a cyclo (rickshaw). The narrow lanes are each named after the numerous guilds that once set up shop on a particular street from silk tailors to traditional medicine shops. On our tour we will have a chance to sample the exotic fruits, sizzling noodle dishes and delightfully sticky snacks being offers by the pavement vendors.
Later this evening there's a chance to freshen up before boarding the train (4 berth sleeper cabin, basic standard) on the ‘Reunification Express’ railway line to Hue. An option to fly from Hanoi to Hue is also available.
Day 4: Hue
Location: Hue
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Mondial Hotel, Hue
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning we have a breakfast box on the train before arriving into Hue where we set out on a guided sightseeing tour of this fascinating imperial city. Once the capital of the Nguyen emperors, the last ruling family of Vietnam, UNESCO-listed Hue is full of palaces, pagodas and temples. Two of the main highlights here are the Thien Mu Pagoda, home to the oldest monastery in the city, and the Citadel. Within the walls of the Citadel is the Imperial Purple Palace – an exact replica of the famed Forbidden City in Beijing, with impressive ramparts, formal moats and imperial palaces, some of which lay in ruin. After our tour we enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Perfume River en route back to our hotel.
Day 5: Hoi An
Location: Hoi An
Accommodation: Resort
Accommodation Name: Vinh Hung Riverside Resort, Hoi An
Meals Included: Breakfast
Hue - Road of the Ocean Clouds - Hoi An. Today we drive to the enchanting riverside town of Hoi An, travelling along the picturesque Hai Van Pass – nicknamed the Road of the Ocean Clouds, with beaches on one side and verdant hills on the other. We will break up our journey with a stop at China Beach, an expansive sandy beach made famous by the film ‘Apocalypse Now’. Here there will be the chance to opt for a swim in its warm waters before continuing our journey south along the coast.
Radiating age-old charm with grand colonial architecture, Hoi An is one of Vietnam's most delightful destinations. The Old Town, recognised as an UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an immaculately preserved example of an Asian trading port with covered bridges, pagodas, temples and merchant houses. The town's beguiling riverside setting adds to the overall picturesque appeal of Hoi An with women in conical hats rowing their wooden vessels downstream and the glow of red lanterns in the evenings reflected on the water's iridescent surface. A short walking tour will take us back to a bygone era, with a visit to the Chua Ong Pagoda, Chinese Assembly Hall, a 200-year-old Tam Ky house, former merchants’ homes and the 400 year-old Japanese Covered Bridge.
Day 6: Hoi An
Location: Hoi An
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: River Green Hotel, Hoi An
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
For a taste of rural life we take a leisurely bicycle ride out of Hoi An to Cam Thanh farm today (we can arrange alternative transportation at no extra cost for those who don't wish to cycle). Cycling through picturesque villages where life moves at a slower pace, passing rice paddies, local orchards and seeing the locals at work in the fields. At the organic farm in Cam Thanh we meet the local farmers and learn all about their community-based project. Then we enjoy a fun hands-on farming experience, helping to tend the fields, applying organic manure, making organic pesticides and cultivating the soil for planting and watering. After farming the fields we return to the farmer's house and use the produce harvested from the organic vegetable garden to help to cook a tasty Vietnamese lunch for ourselves.
This afternoon we hop on our bicycles again for a short cycle to a bamboo workshop where we join a talented local craftsman to make our own bamboo products under his expert guidance. After the workshop we drive back to Hoi An and spend the evening at leisure.
Day 7: Hoi An
Location: Hoi An
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: River Green Hotel, Hoi An
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is free for you to spend at leisure, exploring Hoi An. Perhaps head to the beach for a day of relaxation or shop until you drop - Hoi An is famous for its skilled artisans, with wonderful craft shops, art galleries and some of Asia's best bespoke tailors.
Day 8: Ho Chi Minh City
Location: Ho Chi Minh City
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Lotus Central Hotel, Ho Chi Minh City
Meals Included: Breakfast
Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City. An early morning flight takes us to Ho Chi Minh City today. Once called the ‘Pearl of the Orient’, old and new collide in this modern city as gleaming sky scrapers, upmarket restaurants and designer shops stand side-by-side with colonial era landmarks and post-war remnants. Here we enjoy a walking tour of the city taking in some of Ho Chi Minh City’s most famous landmarks, including the impressive red-brick Neo-Romanesque Notre Dame Cathedral, the central Post Office and visiting the sobering War Remnants Museum.
Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City
Location: Ho Chi Minh City
Meals Included: Breakfast
Thursday. Our tour ends after breakfast today and there's an included transfer to the airport. If you have time, consider bargaining for goods at Ben Thanh Market or visiting the grand Independence Palace.
Alternatively, those with more time to spare can extend their stay and opt to join us on a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, where there will be the chance to explore a vast network of underground tunnels and hideouts that were used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Learn about booby traps, climb through trap doors, or even test your skills with an AK 47 at the firing range!
What's Included
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Accommodation
3-4 star -
1 overnight sleeper train Hanoi to Hue in basic 4 berth cabin (or opt to fly - see Add-ons for details)
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Breakfast daily, 3 lunches and 1 dinner
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6 nights 3-4 star hotels and 1 night aboard deluxe junk boat (private en suite cabin)
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Economy class flight: Danang to Ho Chi Minh City
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Guided sightseeing - Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City
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Halong Bay Junk boat cruise - opt to swim, kayak and explore caves
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Bicycle ride to Cam Thanh Farm, cooking lesson and bamboo craft workshop
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Escorted by an English speaking Vietnamese tour guide
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Airport arrival transfer day 1 and departure transfer day 9
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All relevant transfers and transportation in private air-conditioned vehicles
What's Not Included
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International flights and visa
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Gratuity for your tour guide. We recommend USD$25 – 35 per adult for the entire tour. Tipping your tour guide is an entirely personal gesture
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Entrance Fees: USD$25-35pp, paid in USD or VND
Age Policy
For 10+ yrs
Accommodation
The Q Hotel
One of the best boutique hotels in Hanoi, The Q Hotel is housed in a cosy French building in the heart of the city. The hotel restaurant is open 24/7 and offers a fine array of local and international cuisine. Rooms are modern, with wood flooring and king-sized beds, as well as ensuite bathrooms and balconies in some rooms. Amenities include air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, TV, kettle, minibar and safe. There is a bar and fitness centre for guests to use and attractions including the Imperial Citadel and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum are within a 30-minute walk.
Bhaya Classic
These premier cruise boats, known as junks, combine contemporary luxury with oriental style. Cabins are well-appointed with large windows to create a bright and airy atmosphere. Facilities and services onboard include a dining room and bar, a sunbathing area on-deck, masseur and small library.
ÊMM Hotel
Situated in the heart of the former imperial capital, ÊMM Hotel is the perfect base from which to explore Hue’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed sights. Guestrooms are spacious and complete with modern amenities. The hotel's imperial jade and royal purple colour scheme was inspired by ancient Hue itself. Guests can take advantage of the mini-gym, pool-side bar and reading area. Enjoy delicious Vietnamese and international cuisine in the onsite contemporary restaurant.
Mondial Hotel
Just a 5 minute walk from the Ho Chi Minh museum, the Mondial Hotel is a contemporary hotel with excellent amenities. Guest rooms benefit from spacious interiors, comfortable beds and lots of mod-cons. There is complimentary Wi-Fi for guests, an outdoor pool and onsite spa - perfect for a re laxing massage. As well as the delicious Huong Xuan Restaurant there is also the Lobby Lounge - great for cocktails before dinner!
Vinh Hung Riverside Resort
Situated right on the banks of the Thu Bon River, this upscale hotel is just a 10-minute walk from the ancient town of Hoi An. Combining Vietnamese tradition with modern facilities, its guestrooms are set in coconut tree-shaded gardens beside the water. They’re well-equipped, with free WiFi and air conditioning, as well as private balconies. The hotel also offers a riverside restaurant, serving local specialties and western dishes on the outdoor terrace. This hotel’s highlight, however, is its pool and fabulous swim up bar, which is the perfect place to enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail.
ÊMM Hotel
Ideally located less than 200 metres from Hoi An's Old Quarter, this beautiful hotel features a mix of French colonial and traditional Vietnamese architecture. There's an outdoor swimming pool and a serene private garden to unwind in. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast and other meals in the onsite restaurant and drinks at the bar. There is also free Wi-Fi throughout the property. Room are colourfully and tastefully decorated, with minibars, fridges, TV and ensuite bathrooms.
Muong Thanh Centre
Centrally located, yet on a peaceful, tree-lined street, you will find the Muong Thanh Centre. Only a ten-minute walk from top attractions such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, Opera House and Ben Thanh Market, this hotel is a great base for exploring the famous sights of the city. Its guest rooms boast sophisticated designs and panoramic views. Warm and friendly, the Muong Thanh Centre also features a spa and swimming pool for you to relax and unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
Bay Hotel
The 16-storey, Saigon River-facing Bay Hotel is located just a couple of streets away from the Notre Dame Basilica and Independence Palace in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Rooms offer a complimentary Wi-Fi connection and a complimentary minibar, which is replenished daily. Rooms are bright and contemporary, with floor-to-ceiling windows, ensuite bathroom, TV and safe. The hotel restaurant serves a variety of Asian cuisine and there is a daily buffet breakfast. The rooftop pool and bar offers incredible views over the city.
Check out our Q&As
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What is the maximum group size?
18
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Are airport transfers included in this tour?
Airport arrival transfer day 1 and departure transfer day 9
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What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?
3-4 star
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Low Deposit
On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.