Vietnam Insight
A private travel opportunity with Global Minnesota
HaNoi – HaLong – Hoi An – Hue – Mekong Delta – Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Oct 28 – Nov 8, 2019
Brought to you in partnership by
Vietnam Insight Tour with Global Minnesota and Borton Overseas
Vietnam today stands at a crossroads. It has been at peace for over a decade, but since the 1986 introduction of the "Renovation" or Doi Moi policy that began dismantling the country's socialist economy in favor of a market economy, the country has experienced tremendous social and economic change.
Vietnam has a vast and rich history with a sophisticated civilization influenced by a thousand year’s occupation. It has labored under the Chinese Dynasty, the Khmer Empire, in the late 19th century Vietnam became a French colony and finally regained independence in the 20th Century. During this special Global Minnesota tour we will explore the country’s past and the present; we will visit HaNoi, the current capital of Vietnam, and Saigon, the vibrant and commercial center of the county. We will visit Hue from where the Chinese Dynasty and the Nguyen lords ruled, and Hoi An, once a major international port now a UNESCO site. An optional tour is offered to My Son, where you can learn about the unique Champa Kingdom.
Monday Oct 28: HaNoi Overnight HaNoi Hilton Opera
Fly into HaNoi Airport, where a guide will meet us for transfer to the centrally located Hilton Opera HaNoi Hotel.
Tuesday Oct 29: HaNoi Overnight HaNoi Hilton Opera B L D
A city of lakes, parks and colonial mansions, HaNoi retains much of its historical charm and, with an eclectic mix of Asian tempo and French refinement, Vietnam’s capital is a city to be savored. The labyrinthine streets of HaNoi’s Old Quarter are the ideal place in which to wander and observe daily life. Here street traders jostle for space on the sidewalks and crumbling houses are crammed into narrow alleyways that are still named after the goods that were traded there - Silk Street, Gold Street and even Fried Fish Street! A stroll around West Lake reveals a different side of the city and nearby you will find the somber Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, which is usually crowded with Vietnamese of all ages wishing to show their respect. The elegant French Quarter is home to fine colonial architecture such as the Opera House, whilst an early morning wake-up call and a visit to Hoan Kiem Lake will be rewarded by a display of local residents practicing their tai chi. HaNoi is steeped in history from the infamous 'HaNoi Hilton’ to the religious pride that constructed the 11th century Temple of Literature, the heart of the Confucian education system. HaNoi is a delightful city of contrasts and the ideal city in which soak up the ebb and flow of life in Vietnam.
We start our journey with a tribute to Ho Chi Minh, the father of modern Vietnam. We will visit Ba Dinh Square where silent sentries guard the marble mausoleum in which Ho Chi Minh lies in state, and his stilted wooden house where he lived and worked, a symbol of his simplicity and gentleness. Then onto the One Pillar Pagoda, a Buddhist pagoda with history steeped in folklore and to Thang Long Royal Citadel; a UNESCO Site built in the 11th century by the Ly Viet Dynasty.
Vietnam Insight Tour with Global Minnesota and Borton Overseas
We continue to Hoa Lo, the infamous “HaNoi Hilton” prison museum, where so many captured American POWs were incarcerated.
Lunch today will be at the KOTO restaurant, an Australian Vietnamese charity for underprivileged youth in Vietnam.
After lunch we’ll visit the Temple of Literature. Built in 1070, the Temple of Literature is an excellent example of traditional Vietnamese architecture. The pagoda housed Vietnam’s first university, established in 1076 to educate the sons of Mandarins. The temple, dedicated to Confucius, consists of 5 walled courtyards leading to a pavilion where 82 stelae of an original 117 record the names and places of birth of successful candidates of the grueling Mandarin examinations from 1498 to 1787, the years of the Ly dynasty.
The best way to experience HaNoi's colorful Old Quarter is on foot and on a cyclo, a Vietnamese rickshaw. We start our tour walking through an area of the city known as ’36 Streets’. This densely populated section of HaNoi was once an important center of commerce where goods were sold on the streets named for particular guilds.
This evening we will watch the famous Vietnamese water puppets, a tradition that dates to the 11th century when villagers would wade into the flooded rice fields and entertain one another with puppet play. The ‘stage’ is a pool of water in which the puppeteers stand waist deep, hidden by a screen, skillfully maneuvering the lacquered wooden puppets. The puppets appear to dance and play on the water’s surface. A traditional Vietnamese orchestra provides the musical accompaniment whilst performers sing songs telling a story of daily life and Vietnamese folklore.
After the performance we’ll enjoy a welcome dinner.
Wednesday Oct 30: HaNoi Overnight HaNoi Hilton Opera B L
HaNoi has an incredibly vibrant art scene and this tour will showcase some of the best galleries in and around the city. In the northwest corner of Hoan Kiem Lake, Hang Gai Street is home to the galleries and studios of emerging and established artists. We will visit selected galleries to view the collections and perhaps have the opportunity to meet with and chat to some of the artists about their lives, aspirations and inspirations.
Afternoon free for Global Minnesota special activities
Thursday Oct 31: HaLong Overnight on board HaLong Cruise B L D
HaLong Bay is often called Vietnam's eighth wonder of the world. 3000 spectacular limestone outcroppings, cliffs, arches and coves compete for space in an area that is without doubt the most outstandingly naturally beautiful coastal scenery in the country. In a traditional Chinese-style sailing junks meander through the area whose name translates as 'Where the Dragon Descends into the Sea', stop off at an islet and climb through a series of caves and grottoes, marvelling at some of the most impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations anywhere in the world.
Vietnam Insight Tour with Global Minnesota and Borton Overseas
We depart HaNoi early this morning and travel to Hai Phong for our overnight cruise on HaLong Bay. The cruise begins with a welcome drink followed by lunch served while cruising into magnificent bay along the fascinating limestone karsts rising out of the sea. Kayaking, massage, a cooking class and more are offered on board. Watch the sunset from the top deck or from the balcony of your own suite and then enjoy a wonderful candlelight dinner.
Friday Nov 1: Hoi An Overnight Victoria Hotel Beach Resort & Spa B
Rise early to witness the bay at its very best while enjoying an invigorating tai chi session on the sundeck; after a light breakfast head out in canoes to explore the bay. Vietnam is home to some of the best coffee and tea in the world. While cruising back to the port you will participate in a Tea Ceremony which has long been a part of the Vietnamese culture. Our cruise ends at around noon and then we transfer to HaNoi Airport for our flight to DaNang and transfer to our beachfront hotel in Hoi An.
Saturday Nov 2: Hoi An Overnight Victoria Hotel Beach Resort & Spa B
Strolling along the waterfront in tranquil Hoi An, it is hard to imagine that this river-town was once an important port and a major player in the South- East Asian trading markets. Today, Hoi An Ancient Town is listed by UNESCO and without doubt is one of the most attractive destinations in Vietnam. This exceptionally well-preserved example of a trading port, which was active between the 15th and 19th centuries, reflects centuries of influences from both local and foreign residents. Colorful scenes of traditional merchant houses painted yellow and blanketed in purple bougainvillea present picture- perfect scenes and as night falls, delicate silk lanterns create a rainbow of hues against the night sky.
We start the morning with a visit to a silk lantern workshop. These traditional lanterns, which give Hoi An a special glow, hold a deeper meaning for the locals. They believe that hanging lanterns in front of their houses will bring luck, happiness and wealth to the family living in the house. Once we’ve learned the history and the special meaning of the shape and color of the lanterns, we will make our own lantern to take home with us. As we stroll through the streets of Hoi An we will see beautifully preserved old merchant houses, atmospheric temples and the lively markets of this enchanting town. We will walk down to the iconic 400-year-old Japanese Bridge and the busy waterfront, with colorful fishing boats on the Thu Bon River. Numerous boutiques and galleries line the narrow streets.
The rest of the day is free to continue exploring the old town, including its famous shopping, on your own or simply relax at your wonderful resort.
Optional tour: My Son For those wishing to further explore the history of Vietnam we recommend an afternoon tour to the Champa site of My Son. Departing from Hoi An we travel through rustic countryside, passing fields of rice and small market towns. The final approach to the temples of My Son is a 500-metre walk through lush vegetation before finally emerging at the main site.
Vietnam Insight Tour with Global Minnesota and Borton Overseas
Translating as ‘Beautiful Mountain’, My Son was once the most important city in the Champa Kingdom, the center for both intellectual and religious activities as well as the burial place of choice for the Cham kings. My Son received UNESCO status in 1999 and is considered one of the foremost Hindu temple complexes in Southeast Asia. Discovered by French archaeologists in the late 19th century, the site then consisted of nearly 70 temples, many of which were in remarkably good condition. Sadly this all changed during the Vietnam War when the area surrounding the temples was subjected to an intense US carpet bombing campaign. Nowadays, only 20 or so structures still stand, however the complex remains a place of rural tranquility, a delight to discover.
Sunday Nov 3: Hue Overnight La Residence Hotel & Spa B D
The morning is free, or if you wish to learn more about Vietnamese food join a cooking class. Optional tour: Cooking Class Begin the morning at Hoi An’s vibrant marketplace, you will have the chance to interact with the local vendors and purchase the necessary ingredients to be used in your cooking lesson. Walking the short distance to the jetty, board a small boat and enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Thu Bon River to the cooking school. Hoi An is renowned throughout Vietnam for its delicious culinary specialties and this morning’s cooking class begins with an introduction to some of the region’s best-known dishes. You will tour the school’s vegetable and herb garden before following the example of the local chef and preparing some of the dishes yourself. The class will culminate with lunch and a short demonstration of Vietnamese vegetable carving and plate decoration.
In the afternoon we depart Hoi An to enjoy some of Vietnam’s most beautiful scenery of the mountains and the South China Sea as we travel through Hai Van Pass (Pass of the Ocean Clouds) to Hue.
Tonight we will dine at Tha Om, an intimate garden home restaurant hidden away in a village outside Hue and enjoy Vietnamese cuisine at this restored traditional Hue style courtyard house.
Monday Nov 4: Hue Overnight La Residence Hotel & Spa B L
Hue, the ancient royal capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, is a UNESCO site. Hue was once the religious, economic and cultural epicentre of Vietnam, the mighty Imperial headquarters, and the political capital of the country until 1945. That this glorious architectural masterpiece of a city should have been reduced almost completely to rubble as a result of the war is a tragedy. Thirteen Nguyen Dynasty Emperors ruled Vietnam from Hue. They built a fortress around the ancient city, a huge Citadel, with walls 10 metres thick, modelled on Beijing's Forbidden City. This seemingly impenetrable defence was useless during the Tet Offensive of 1968, when the proud city of Hue was reduced to ruins. Hue today has regained its royal demeanour and is a calm, peaceful and relaxed place to visit.
Enjoy an enchanting morning dragon boat ride on the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda. Continue to the lesser visited and perhaps most majestic of all of Hue's tombs, the tomb of Minh Mang. Built between 1841 and 1843, this tomb is well known for its harmonious blend of
Vietnam Insight Tour with Global Minnesota and Borton Overseas architecture and natural landscape. Visit the Imperial Citadel. Built between 1804 and 1833, this heavily fortified structure is still very much the centerpiece of modern-day Hue and despite a checkered history, the fortress remains superbly intact. Continue to the magnificent Mausoleum of Emperor Tu Duc, resplendent in traditional architecture, paved walkways, resting pavilions overlooking tranquil lotus ponds, and a small forest for hunting. In stark contrast, continue to Khai Dinh's Tomb. Remembered as the 'Puppet Emperor' because of his affiliation with the French, this tomb was designed with colonial flair, and a glass mosaic frieze dominates the interior.
Tuesday Nov 5: Can Tho Overnight Victoria Can Tho Resort B L D
Vietnam's 'rice-bowl', the Mekong Delta, is a rich fertile region of flat farmland interlaced with thousands of waterways and tributaries of the mighty Mekong. Known locally as Cuu Long, or the 'River of Nine Dragons', the Mekong splits into two branches as it makes its final path through Vietnam before dissipating into the South China Sea. The river provides a lifelong flurry of activity and commerce among its waters and is interspersed with seemingly endless rice fields, colourful floating markets, isolated villages accessed only by boat, and a populace of constantly smiling people.
Early morning we transfer to Hue airport for our flight to Saigon where we meet our vehicle and travel to the Delta town of Cai Be.
Enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch before boarding a traditional bamboo-covered wooden boat watching life on the river, navigating the Delta’s tributaries to Dong Hoa Hiep Island. We’ll explore the island walking through local villages and fruit gardens, visiting a 19th century ancient Mandarin house where several generations of the same family live together. Returning to our boat we cruise through Dong Phu canal to Vinh Long, the capital town of Cuu Long province to visit a local home and walk through the nursery garden, tasting some of the wide variety of tropical fruits cultivated in the Mekong Delta. We cross Co Chien River, one of the two main branches of the Mekong River, to Vinh Long Pier, where we disembark and transfer to Can Tho City.
Wednesday Nov 6: Ho Chi Minh City Overnight Renaissance Riverside Hotel B L
Early morning, as the sun rises over the Mekong Delta we’ll travel along the Can Tho River to see villages come alive as we venture into the heart of Cai Rang, one of the Delta’s busiest floating market with a profusion of boats laden with fruits, vegetables and all manner of groceries and observe the brisk trading.
We now return to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) to arrive late afternoon, the rest of the day is at leisure.
Vietnam Insight Tour with Global Minnesota and Borton Overseas
Optional tour: Saigon Street food tour by Vespa (join- in) 6:00pm-10:00pm (This optional tour is not included in tour price - quoted separately) See Saigon the way the locals do and experience the real Saigon from the back of a vintage Vespa scooter. This after- dark tour of Saigon’s hectic downtown begins at the Vespa- themed Café Zoom, a perfect spot to immerse yourself in the bustle of the city. After a few drinks continue darting through buzzing streets and alleyways sampling the city’s authentic street food and listen to contemporary live music at a Vietnamese-style coffee shop. End the evening at a local bar, where the new generation of Saigonese unwinds after their busy day in the city. - Guest ride behind a Vespa’s driver - Food and drinks included (including alcoholic drinks)
Thursday Nov 7: Ho Chi Minh City Overnight Renaissance Riverside Hotel B L D
The name Saigon is surely one of the most evocative names in Asia and definitely one of the most extraordinary cities in the world. The most Western in atmosphere of Vietnam's cities, Ho Chi Minh City (to use its official name - although to residents and visitors alike it is universally and affectionately known as Saigon), has a large and growing population, and a booming free-market economy. It is a city of amazing contrasts: elegant new international hotels, exclusive restaurants and trendy bars side-by-side with roadside noodle stalls, street children and vociferous cyclo drivers. Bustling, booming, crowded, noisy - all words that barely scratch the surface of the addictive and often mesmerizing chaos that is Saigon. And yet Saigon is a city that is almost indescribable and completely unforgettable.
Cu Chi Tunnels is synonymous with the Vietnam War and a testament to the determined spirit of the Vietnamese. Cu Chi Tunnels played an important role in the French and American wars and became famous for the 124-mile network of underground tunnels used in the last war by the Viet Cong. The tunnels were dug over three levels into the earth and housed soldiers - acting as garrison, hospital and a command center. Work on the tunnels began during the war against the French in the 1940s and over the next 25 years. As the conflict with America escalated they were improved and expanded to create an underground city. The tunnels allowed the Viet Cong to control a vital area of South Vietnam and at their height extended for more than 200KM in length, stretching and stretched from Saigon to the Cambodian border. Cu Chi in now a memorial park, two sections of this remarkable network are open and you can go below the surface and visit sections of the tunnels.
We return to Saigon for a unique opportunity to meet with Mr. Hoang Van Cuong, a former United Press International photographer, who documented the Vietnam War throughout the 1960s and 70s. During the hour-long meeting you will be able to look through some of the photographer’s extensive collection and to ask questions about his experiences during that time. Saigon was the scene of some of the biggest military events of the war in the 1960’s and 1970’s. Discover some of these sites, visit of the shrine outside of the US Consulate, continue to the former CIA building where helicopters evacuated the remaining US citizens in 1975. We will visit the site of the 1952 car bombing made famous in Graham Greene's book The Quiet American, The Rex Hotel - a former officers’ quarters and a hangout for journalists, and the site of the self-immolation of Thich Quang Duc in July 1963. We will visit the Reunification Palace, formerly named the Presidential Palace, this important landmark was assured its place in history on April 30, 1975, when the first North Vietnamese tanks rumbled past, signaling the Fall of Saigon and ultimately the end of
Vietnam Insight Tour with Global Minnesota and Borton Overseas the Vietnam War. The palace is now a museum with period meeting areas, war rooms and the basement communication center. Returning to our hotel we’ll pass Notre Dame Cathedral, a romantic church dating back to the late 19th century and the striking French colonial-era post office.
Now that our journey through Vietnam has come to an end we will enjoy a farewell dinner in a lovely restaurant in Saigon.
Friday Nov 8: Ho Chi Minh City B
At leisure until it is time to be transferred to Saigon Airport for your departure flight.
*** End of the Vietnam Tour ***
Vietnam Insight Tour with Global Minnesota and Borton Overseas
OPTIONAL EXTENSION TOUR The Splendor of Angkor Cambodia
Friday Nov 8: Siem Reap Anantara Resort B
Those continuing on the Cambodia will be transferred to Saigon Airport for a morning flight to Siem Reap. Arrive Siem Reap, meet your guide who will assist you with immigration and transfer to your hotel.
In the afternoon explore the spectacular Angkor Wat, considered the largest single religious monument in the world. Bas-reliefs surround Angkor Wat on four sides, each telling a story. The most famous is the tale of the Churning of the Ocean of Milk, in which the Naga serpent is twisted by demons and gods to spurt out the elixir of life. We end the day with a panoramic sunset view on board an Angkor Gondola, a Khmer traditional boat.
Saturday Nov 9: Siem Reap Anantara Resort B L D
This morning visit the Southern Gate of Angkor Thom “Great City” containing the famous Bayon Temple, Baphuon, Terrace of Elephants and Leper King Temples.
After lunch travel to visit Takeo with an oxen-cart to see Green Village on the way to Ta Phrom. Unlike most of the temples of Angkor Ta Prohm has been largely left to the clutches of the living jungle. It shows the dynamic interaction between nature and man-made art. You will also visit Banteay Kdei, Sras Srang (the royal pool) and Krovan Temple.
After dinner enjoy a walk through the vibrant night market.
Sunday Nov 10: Siem Reap B L
This morning visit the intricately-carved thousand-year-old Banteay Srei, the birth place of Khmer classical style architecture and Banteay Samre located 30 km away from the town of Siem Reap. The rest of the day is free to explore on your own.
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
Vietnam Insight Tour with Global Minnesota and Borton Overseas
Tour Costs
Vietnam Insight Tour Per Person Double/Twin occupancy $6450 Single occupancy $8250 Optional Travel Insurance – Vietnam tour Double/Twin occupancy $359 Single supplement $485
Optional Tour: Saigon Vespa Saigon $135
Optional tour to Siem Reap, Cambodia (based on minimum of 2 persons traveling together) Double/Twin occupancy $1170 Single occupancy $1490 Optional Travel Insurance will be advised based on final cost including all optional tours.
Reserve Your Place
Join Global Minnesota staff on this one-of-a-kind excursion to Vietnam. Seats are limited, so please sign up soon to avoid disappointment. To reserve your place please complete the Reservation Form/Passenger Information and return it along with your deposit to Borton Overseas.
Deposit: $500 per person is required to reserve your place Complete, sign, and email, fax or mail the Credit Card Authorization Form and the Terms and Conditions to [email protected]
Payment due dates: - First deposit of $500 due by January 30, 2019 - Second payment of $2,500 due by April 25, 2019 - A copy of your passport along with the tour registration form. - If you’d like to purchase the optional Travel Insurance, please include payment with your deposit. - Final payment due Aug 01, 2019
Contact for more information: Global Minnesota – Kathleen Oscarson – 612.625.4644; email: [email protected] Borton Overseas – Daphna Stromberg – 612.822.4640 ext. 118 /800.843.0602 ext. 118 Or email: [email protected]
If emailing, please reference Global Minnesota Insight Vietnam in the subject line.
Vietnam Insight Tour with Global Minnesota and Borton Overseas
Additional Notes: - Itinerary and activities are subject to change depending on local conditions and final arrangements. - For international flights: Depart the US and fly to HaNoi; book your return flight from Saigon. If you chose the extension to Cambodia, book your return flight from Siem Reap. Flights to/from Vietnam or Cambodia are not included in the tour cost. Borton Overseas can assist you with flights.
Tour Cost Includes: Luxury hotel accommodations (11 nights) with daily breakfast including tax Airport transfers in HaNoi and Saigon Domestic air tickets: HaNoi - DaNang//Hue - Saigon in Economy Class Private group transportation and tours in each city by private vehicles/coaches Your choice of one optional tour in Hoi An, a visit to My Son or a cooking class Local English-speaking guides in each city Admission fees for all sites listed in itinerary Meals as listed in itinerary: B breakfast, L lunch, D dinner, including soft drinks with meals Gratuities to local guides and drivers, tips to service suppliers Pre-departure briefing $1,000 contribution to Global Minnesota for programs in Minnesota to advance international understanding Vietnam tourist visa
Not included: International airfare tickets Optional tours not included in the Vietnam tour are quoted separately Meals not listed in program Hotels’ early check- in (before 2:00 pm) and late check-out (after 12:00 noon) Personal expenses, including alcoholic beverages or beverages not listed Other services not clearly indicated in the package inclusions above
Cambodia Tour: Includes: Luxury Hotel accommodations (2 nights) with daily breakfast and tax Meals as listed in itinerary: B breakfast, L lunch, D dinner Domestic air tickets: Saigon – Siem Reap in Economy Class Transfers and tours by private vehicles with local English-speaking guide Admission fees for all sites listed in itinerary Cambodia tourist visa
Cambodia tour: Not included: Gratuities to local guides and drivers, tips to service suppliers Meals not listed in program Beverages with meals Personal expenses
Vietnam Insight Tour with Global Minnesota and Borton Overseas
Trip Cancellation and Travel Insurance is highly recommended We encourage you to purchase Travel Insurance because it includes, among other benefits, a comprehensive trip cancellation/interruption insurance plan which provides security and financial reimbursement of your trip investment in the event that you are obliged to cancel or cut short your travel plans for the reasons listed in the policy.
Trip Cancellation/Interruption protection is especially important since deposits and payments are non-refundable. Borton Overseas cannot make any refunds for reservations canceled after the final payment deadline.
Documentations for U.S. citizens: Passport: Each member must have a valid passport for 6 months past return date. Visa is required for U.S. citizens to enter Vietnam and Cambodia Vietnam tourist visa must be obtained prior to departure from the U.S. Cambodia tourist visa is available on arrival. Both visas are included in the cost of the tour and will be arranged by Borton Overseas.
Baggage Allowance: One piece of checked luggage per person maximum 20 kg (44lbs), for economy class for Vietnam domestic flights
Health: We strongly encourage you to check with your personal physician or local travel clinic at least 6 weeks prior to your departure for up-to-date information regarding medical precautions and immunizations for your particular travel destinations. For an updated advisory to the countries you are visiting please contact the U.S. health advisory agency, U.S. CDC International Travel Information: 800-232-4636. http://www.cdc.gov/travel
Vietnam Insight Tour with Global Minnesota and Borton Overseas