The Best of Vietnam & Angkor Tour

Day 1 Arrival in Hanoi (D)
Transfer via: International Flight on your own arrangement
Accommodations: La Dolce Vita Hotel
After the flight we will be transferred to accommodation in our hotel. Tonight we will have a meal in one of the fine restaurants in Hanoi.
Today Dinner included

Day 2 Hanoi City tour (B, L)
Accommodations: La Dolce Vita Hotel
Site visited: Ho Chi Minh Complex, Ba Dinh Square, Temple of Literature, Ethnology Museum,
Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Water Puppet Show
In the morning we will visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, His House on stilts, the One Pillar Pagoda, the outside of the Presidential Palace and the Temple of Literature which was Vietnam's first University. In the afternoon we will go to the intriguing Ethnology Museum followed by an hour on a cyclo (a pedal rickshaw) being taken round the old quarter of Hanoi. Then we can enjoy the ancient and unique water-puppet show.

Notes: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum opening time: Open from Tuesday to Thursday and weekends from 8 Am to 11pm. Closed on Mondays and Fridays. The mausoleum is closed for two months of the year, usually October and November, when Ho Chi Minh’s body is maintenance.

Day 3 Hanoi - Halong Bay (B, L, D)
Accommodations: Halong Sail Cruise
Site visited: Halong Bay, Caves
In the morning we depart Hanoi for Halong Bay. When we are there we cruise in this secluded bay, marveling at 3000 limestone peaks that emerge from the emerald water. We have opportunity to visit spectacular limestone cave, swim from our boat, and especially we can do kayaking to explore the hidden charm part of the bay. Overnight on Junk Cruise.

Day 4 Halong Bay - Hanoi (B, L)
Site visited: Hallow Caves, Islands
Accommodations: La Dolce Vita Hotel
In the morning we do some more kayaking to explore Luon cave and from here we are kayaking toward Turtle islet, Human Head islet, and the Saddle islet. After having lunch on boat we will leave Ha Long for Hanoi.

Temple of Literature One Pillar Pagoda - Hanoi Halong Bay

Day 5 Hanoi - Fly to Hue (B)
Transfer via: Vietnam Airlines
Accommodations: Hue Queen Hotel
Site visited: Hue Citadel, Imperial City, Forbidden Purple City
This morning we catch a one-hour flight to Hue. Arriving Hue we can look forward to exploring the superb sights of the city. In the afternoon we explore the Citadel, the Imperial City and the Forbidden Purple City.

Day 6 Hue (B)
Accommodations: Hue Queen Hotel
Site visited: Perfume River, Thien Mu Pagoda, Tu Duc Tomb, Dong ba market
This morning we make our way down to the Perfume River to embark on a riverboat journey. We visit the Thien Mu pagoda (The Pagoda of the Heavenly Lady). After that we continue to the elaborate Tu Duc tombs of the Nguyen emperors. On our return we visit Dong Ba market.

Day 7 Hue - Hoi An (B)
Accommodations: Thuy Duong 3 Hotel
Site visited: Lang Co beach, Hai Van Pass, Cham Museum, Marble Mountain, My Khe beach, Hoi An town
We travel through the high pass of Hai Van with its spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean en route to Hoi An. On the way we also visit Cham museum, My Khe beach and the marble village. In the afternoon we will enjoy a walking tour of the Old Town with its narrow, winding streets, visiting the Fukien Assembly Hall, the 200 year old Tan Ky house, the Japanese covered bridge, the Hoi An Museum and the handicraft workshops. After that we are free to go shopping, go to the nearby beach, or even have some clothes made which can be picked up the very next day.

Day 8 Hoi An - Free day (B)
Accommodations: Thuy Duong 3 Hotel
Today we are free at our leisure.
Hue Citadel Lang Co beach Hoi An Town

Day 9 Hoi An - My Son (B)
Accommodations: Thuy Duong 3 Hotel
Site visited: My Son world Heritage site
Today we visit My Son, a relic of the Cham civilization which dates back from the 4th to the 12th century. We will return at noon giving us more time to explore quaint Hoi An. We also can take part in a cooking class showing us how to prepare the best Vietnamese and Hoi An specialties.

Day 10 Hoi An - Fly to Ho Chi Minh City and Cu Chi Tunnel (B)
Transfer via: Vietnam Airlines
Accommodations: Sapphire Hotel Ho Chi Minh City
Site visited: Cu Chi Tunnel
We will take a short flight to Ho Chi Minh City early this morning, and after breakfast we will head for the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels. In the early afternoon we will return to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), a fascinating mix of old and new for us to explore at our leisure.

Day 11 Ho Chi Minh - Mekong Delta (B, L, D)
Accommodations: Basic local home stay
Site visited: Mekong Delta: local house, orchard gardens, canal, cottage industries workshops
We head for the mighty Mekong delta today. At Vinh Long town we will board a local boat so we can zigzag through the intricate waterways of the Mekong. We will lunch at a local house, stop to visit cottage industries and spend the night at the simple lodging of a local family in the Mekong delta.

Day 12 Mekong - Ho Chi Minh City (B, L)
Accommodations: Sapphire Hotel Ho Chi Minh City
Site visited: Cai Be floating market
Our day will begin with a boat trip along the endless waterway of the mighty Mekong River to Cai Be floating market, one of the most beautiful floating markets in the region. After that we have chance to see how the local people making: pop corn, and rice paper. In the afternoon we go back to Ho Chi Minh City, and the rest of the day at leisure.

Cai Be floating market Notre Dame Cathedral - Ho Chi Minh City Angkor Wat

Day 13 Ho Chi Minh City (B, L)
Accommodations: Sapphire Hotel Ho Chi Minh City
Site visited: Notre Dame cathedral, General Post Office, Formal Presidential Palace, Museum of War Remnants, Ben Thanh market.
Today we tour around the city to visit the highlights of Saigon including: Notre Dame cathedral, General Post Office, Formal Presidential Palace, Museum of War Remnants, and Ben Thanh market.

Day 14 Ho Chi Minh City - Siem Riep (B)
Transfer via: Vietnam Airlines
Accommodations: Steung Siem Reap Hotel
Site visited: Rolous Temples group, hilltop temple Phnom Bakheng
Today we bid farewell to Vietnam and after a short flight we arrive Siem Riep. In the afternoon we begin to explore Angkor with the Rolous group of temple before climbing to the hilltop temple of Phnom Bakheng for a spectacular sunset.
Today Breakfast included

Day 15 Angkor Temple complex (B)
Accommodations: Steung Siem Reap Hotel
Site visited: Pre Rup, East Mebon, Banteay Srey, Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom
After breakfast we drive out to the Pre Rup and East Mebon visit Banteay Srey (the Woman temple). In the afternoon we explore the majestic Angkor Wat - The Wonder of the World - a truly memorable experience.

Day 16 Siem Riep Departure (B)
Transfer via: International Flight on your own arrangement
Site visited: Pre Rup, East Mebon, Banteay Srey
This morning we visit the ruins of Ta Prohm (the Jungle Temple) before heading to Banteay Kdei. In the afternoon, we will be transferred to airport for our departure flight home.

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Best of the North 6 Days

Day 1 - Hanoi
Arrival at Hanoi airport, you will be met by your guide o­n the other side of Immigration/ Arrival check point. If time permits, enjoy a brief driving orientation tour of Hoa Kiem Lake, the French Quarter and Old Quarter of Hanoi en - route to your hotel.
You can use the next few hours to rest or explore the surroundings o­n your own.
or take a Cyclo ride through the Old Town of Hanoi.
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

Day 2 - Hanoi
For the early risers, may we suggest a stroll along the picturesque Hoa Kiem Lake. Where each early morning, groups of locals gather to do their exercises along the lovely tree lined promenade. You may cross over the red bridge at the north end to Ngoc Son Temple and the Tortoise Tower o­n a small island.
After breakfast, you will have a full day of your own to see the city so good walking shoes are a must. You will have many options to choose from:
- Temple of Literature, built in 11th Century and the country’s first University
- Ho Chi Minh’s (HCM) Mausoleum and Presidential Palace
- HCM’s Stilt House
- O­ne Pillar Pagoda
- Ethnology Museum
- Opera House
- Hoa Lo prison which is also known as the “Hanoi Hilton”
- West Lake & Pagoda
Attend a Water Puppet show this evening then have a leisurely dinner while waiting for the 21:00 departure o­n the deluxe Night train to Lao Cai.
Overnight o­n train in air conditioned cabin.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Soft Sleeper Cabin with AC

Day 3 - Lao Cai – Sapa
The train will pull in around 6:00 at Lao Cai station, near the border of China, you will be met by your driver for the 38 miles drive to Sapa, the premier destination of northwest Vietnam.
Enjoy your breakfast while waiting for hotel check-in, catch a few hours of rest or venture out to discover the beautiful mountain landscapes and ethic minority groups of Sapa. Your guide will take you o­n a 2 hours trekking to the village of  Cat Cat & Sin Chai from here you will trek down to the valley among the terraced fields and meet the hill tribes people, get to know their way of life, cultures and traditions.Get back to Sapa town in the afternoon.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Sapa

Day 4- Sapa
A whole day for discover of nature as well as different culture of hill tribe people o­n a new trek in Sapa with a H'mong guide who speaks excellent English
We will begin with a walking tour of Sapa market, then trekking down hill from village to villages around Y Linh Ho, Lao Chai and Ta Van area which is beautifully decorated by terraced-fields and the house of H'mong, Red Zao and Zay people. You have several levels for your trekking today from soft trek 2-3miles, medium trek (3-4 miles) and hard trek (5 miles +)
Great opportunity for taking photos of breathtaking landscapes, meeting friendly hill-tribe people at home and work...
Have home hosted lunch in the village of Zday people.
Later in the afternoon Jeep or Van will take you back to Sapa for refreshment then transfer to Lao Cai for the night train to Hanoi.
Meals: Breakfast& Lunch
Accommodation: Soft Sleeper Cabin with AC

Day 5 Hanoi - Halong
You will be met by your guide early this morning at Hanoi’s railway station. After breakfast you will have over 3 hours dride along the country side of the Red River Delta to the UNESCO world’s heritage site of Halong Bay.
A traditional style Vietnamese Junk Cruise is waiting your arrival and will set sail at noon today. Lunch will be served o­n board amidst spectacular views of the bay.
Today you will visit o­ne of the largest caves in Halong Bay and included is a beach stop where perhaps you may want to take a swim or dip in the water of the South China Sea.
Tonight enjoy a fresh seafood dinner on the Junk.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch& Dinner
Accommodation: On board

Day 6 - Halong - Hanoi
Participate in Tai Chi o­n the top deck or simply watch the sunrise over the magnificent bay. Enjoy your morning cup of coffee or juice before setting out to the near- by cave o­n row boat. Watch for monkeys high o­n the cliff tops. Return back to the junk, where breakfast is served, while sailing around Bay Tu Long bay where the film “Indochine” was made.
Your cruise will end at noon and you will be met by your guide & driver for the trip back to Hanoi.
The trip ends in Hanoi at 3PM.

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Best of Vietnam & Cambodia Tour 14 Days

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival
Upon arrival in Hanoi, you will be picked up from airport to a hotel in Hanoi for check in and relax. Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 2: Hanoi City Tour (B,L)
08.30 AM: Our guide will pick up at your hotel
Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum. Enjoy the architectural and historical aspects of Uncle Ho’s final resting-place. Just next door is Ho Chi Minh’s house on stilts. Lying to one side of the Mausoleum is the One Pillar Pagoda, founded by King Ly Thai To in 1049 the structure has become an important symbol for the people of Hanoi.
Have lunch at local restaurant.
PM: After lunch proceed to visit the Ethnology Museum, continue to visit the Literature Temple and Quoc Tu Giam. Vietnam’s first university constructed in 1070, it"s gardens and well-preserved architecture offers a relaxing glimpse into Vietnam’s past. We will take you past Hoan Kiem Lake, see the peaceful waters, and visit Ngoc Son temple. For the end of the tour journey visit by coach trip along the Hanoi Old Quarter. Free for shopping.
Then our car transfers back to your hotel for relax.
Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 3: Hanoi – Ha Long Bay – Phoenix Cruise (B,L,D)
8.00 – 8.30: Halong Phoenix Cruiser’s bus and guide will pick you up at your hotel (optional). On the way to Halong city, enjoy the journey through the rich farmlands of the Red River Delta and the scenery of rice fields, water buffalo and everyday Vietnamese village life.
12.15: Embark on Halong Phoenix Cruiser. Welcome drinks would be served before receiving cabin and cruising route briefing. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch while our boat slowly cruise through amazing limestone seascape.
15.15: Visiting Sung Sot cave, one of the most amazing caves in Halong Bay. The two chambers that form this amazing grotto are decorated with thousands of spectacular stalactite and stalagmite forms.
16.25 Enjoy easy kayaking around the fishing village, then return to the vessel for your own leisure. Fresh fruit platter will be served on the sundeck.
17.45: Keep cruising to the overnight anchorage area
19.00: Seafood set-dinner on board
21.00: Enjoy evening activities – Movies (Night), Board Games, Fishing or karaoke
Overnight on Halong Phoenix Cruiser.

Day 4: Ha Long Bay – Hanoi – Hue (B,L)
A new day has come with beautiful sunrise view from your cabin
5h30: Optional to wake up for sunrise or swimming.
7.30: Breakfast with complimentary tea & coffee.
8.00: Be transferred to nearby Ti Top Island for swimming or climb up to the top to see the outstanding scenery of the bay.
9.00: Return to Phoenix Cruiser. Check out and settle the bill
9.30: Discover the mystic recipes of the Vietnamese cuisine by joining cooking class on the sundeck. The vessel cruises leisurely back to harbor.
11.00: Set menu lunch is served on board
12.00: Disembark and back to Hanoi
16.30: Arrive in Hanoi.
Our waiting car will pick up and transfer to airport for your departure flight. You will be greeted and transferred to hotel in Hue for check in and relax.
Overnight in Hue.

Day 5: Hue City Tour (B,L)
1. Tu Duc Tomb
2. Minh Mang Tomb
3. Khai Dinh Tomb
4. Conical Hat Making Village and Incense Making Village
Noon: Back to town for lunch at 12.30 pm
BUFFET (50 TRADITIONAL HUE FOODS, ASIAN AND WESTERN DISHES)
Afternoon: Continue at 2.00 pm
BY BOAT:
5. Fishing village along Perfume river
6. Phu Mong Garden House
7. Thien Mu Pagoda
Back to town at 4:30 pm
Overnight in Hue.

Day 6: Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An (B,L)
AM: Check out. Transfer to Hoi An, stop for sightseeing: Lang Co beach, Hai Van pass, Cham museum. Check in hotel.
PM: Visit the Hoi An ancient town with the Japanese - covered bridge, Tan Ky old house, the Cantonese congregation, shopping at the silk streets of Hoi An.
Overnight in Hoi An.

Day 7: My Son Holy Land (B,L)
Getting started from hotel in the morning for My son located 75km from Hoi An, this site is a must-see for those interested in oriental architecture and ancient civilizations and is now one of five UNESCO World Heritage sites in Vietnam. My Son is the former capital of the ancient Cham civilization that ruled their kingdom in Central Vietnam from the second to the thirteenth century. Their religion was primarily derived from Indian Hinduism.
My Son is considered to be one of the best-preserved Cham structures in Vietnam. The complex is comprised of seventy Hindu-like towers and temples dating from the second century. Return to hotel for lunch and relax.
PM: Free and Easy for shopping or swimming in Cua Dai Beach.
Hoi An called as shopper’s paradise. Specially, you can get custom –tailored clothing in short-time.
You will have beautiful clothes or shoes which look good suit with you, some gifts like as rice picture or ceramic…
Overnight in Hoi An.

Day 8: Hoi An – Da Nang - Saigon (B,L)
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for the flight to Saigon at 08: 00 AM. Arrival in Saigon at 09: 10 AM, you will be picked up for city tour: The sightseeing tour acquaints us with the city's some major sights. We pass the now-demolished wartime American Embassy before we visit the Reunification Palace was the former residence of the President of South Vietnam until end of April 1975, and some French colonial structures including the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Old Saigon Post Office. After seeing the Jade Emperor Pagoda and the War Remnant Museum, we continue our trip on to the bustling Ben Thanh Market where anything and everything is for sale.
Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city.

Dec 9: Cao Dai Temple– Cu Chi Tunnels (B,L)
8.00 AM: Private car and tour guide pick you up at your hotel star to join full day trip to visit Cao Dai temple and Cu Chi tunnel.
Our first stop today is The Great Holy See Temple, built in 1926, is considered one of the most striking structures in all of south-east Asia. It is the centre of Dadaism, a religion that blends Buddhism, Christianity and Confucianism. Explore this fascinating site and attend the colorful noon-day mass held by the Cao Dai followers. It is an experience not to be missed. After lunch, visit the Cu Chi Tunnels.
After have lunch in local restaurant, we will visit Cu Chi which is now considered a heroic district for its role during the American war in Vietnam. It is legendary for its network of tunnels, which extends over 220km, and is a popular destination for both Vietnamese and foreign visitors. Cu Chi is a tranquil place of rice paddy fields with ducks and water buffalos bathing in the rivers alongside the road. But this peaceful rural scene belies the terrible destruction and defoliation caused by bombing and mines when Cu Chi was a "Free Target Zone". Cu Chi still contains plenty of evidence of the fierce battle that took place here and all over this area you will find the remnants of war. Then our waiting car transfer back to your hotel.

Day 10: Mekong Delta Tour (B,L)
8.00 AM: Our car will pick you up at your hotel.
A smooth one-and-half-hour car ride through rice field scenery along National Highway 1 brings you to the beautiful rural district of Trung Luong. Take a motor boat to enter My Tho city through Bao Dinh natural canal. Then pay a visit to My Tho's colorful street fruit market alongside the canal to soak up the lively atmosphere and watch the locals trade their produce.
Take a leisurely cruise on the Tien River to Tortoise island. En route, view the fishing port, the traditional stilt houses and boat building workshops, and the other three evocatively-named islands - Dragon, Phoenix and Unicorn islands. Enjoy a sumptuous lunch served right in the heart of the orchard to the accompaniment of Southern Vietnamese folk music performed by the islanders.
After visiting the coconut candy mill, take an amazing rowing boat trip along the small canal. Then continue to Ben Tre province, "the country of coconuts", to see a typical agricultural model known as "Garden - Pond - Cage". Enjoy a relaxing cup of honey tea before returning to My Tho via Tan Thach natural canal, cruising under the shadows of water coconut palms. Towards the end of the day we drive back to Saigon.You will across Rach Mieu bridge. One of the most beautiful bridges in Mekong delta. 5.30 PM: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 11: Saigon – Siem Reap – Great of Tonle Sap (B,L)
After have breakfast in the hotel, our car will transfer you to airport for your flight to Siem Reap.
Arrive at Siem Reap airport and you will be transferred to hotel for check in. In the afternoon, we start to visit Small Circuit to witness the Prasat Kravan (Cardamon sanctuary), where we will experience the stunning image of the eight-armed Vishnu in the largest central tower. Then we get going to Banteay Kdei, a massive Buddhist temple with four concentric walls; Srah Srang (Royal Bath); especially to Ta Prohm, which is best known for its originally charming look, with trees and roots intertwined with the carvings and chambers of the buildings. Overnight in Siem Reap.

Day 12: Angkor Thom – Angkor Wat (B,L)
Today we start the tour to South Gate of Angkor Thom, and then go to Angkor Thom (the temple) which was built by Angkor's greatest king, Jayavarman VII. The major attraction of Angkor Thom is the Bayon, whose exact function and symbolism is still unknown until now. Then we go to Baphoun which is one of the most spectacular of Angkor’s temples in its heyday; to Terrace of the Elephants that was used as a giant reviewing stand for public ceremonies and served as a base for the king’s grand audience hall; to Terrace of the Leper King, another of Angkor’s mysteries. In the afternoon, we visit the World Seventh Wonder -better known as Angkor Wat- that stands as the most important archaeological sites in South-East Asia. Angkor wat stretch over some 400 sq. km, including forested area, Angkor Archaeological Park contains the magnificent remains of the different capitals of the Khmer Empire. In the evening we view the sunset at Phnom Bakheng Hill.
Accommodation at Siem Reap.

Day 13: Siem Reap – PhnomPenh (B,L)
Breakfast at the hotel and take the bus to Siem Riep (07.00~13.00). Upon arrival in Phnom Penh, we head to our hotel down town for check in.
Our guide will transfer to have lunch in local restaurant. Our short city tour of Phnom Penh visiting to the National Museum where we would see the world’s most wondrous collection of Khmer sculpture. Continue to Wat Phnom where the Khmers prefer to pray for luck.
The rest of the day we visit the Royal Palace. Back to hotel for overnight.

Day 14: PhnomPenh – Departure (B)
Free at your leisure still our car pick up and transfer to airport for your departure flight.

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Sa Pa Travel Guide

Sapa district (or Sa Pa) is located in Lao Cai province, 350 km from Hanoi, close to the border with China. The Hoang Lien Son range of mountains dominates the district, which is at the eastern extremity of the Himalayas. This range includes Vietnam’s highest peak, Fansipan Mountain at 3,142m above sea level, and a vast area covered by thick forest, which is very rich in wildlife. The township of Sapa lies on a hill station at the attitude of about 1,600m and was built by the French into a famous summer resort with some hundred colonial villas which was well-known as “ Tonkin’s Alps” . The complicated terrain of Sapa including steeped high mountains with sharp cuts and large valleys, many streams of water in combination with sloped terraced paddies form magnificent scenery.

Famous for its breathtaking landscapes, Sapa is also an ideal inhabitation for a great diversity of ethnic minority peoples. It is likely that, Sapa was first inhabited by highland minorities of H’mong and Zao groups who immigrated from southern provinces of China, later came the Tay, Zay, and a small number of Xa Pho to form the 5 main ethnic groups which takes about 85% of the district’s population today. The Vietnamese, in small number, immigrated from lower land to the region, mainly living in town, working in government offices, schools, hospital or running their own mini hotels, shops, … while most other ethnic peoples live in small hamlets and villages scattering on the mountains and valleys throughout the district. Until middle of 20th Century, the H’mong and Zao, majority of Sapa’a population, still lived shifting style and practiced slash and burn agriculture which caused huge damages to the nature. Nowadays, most of them have changed into sedentary one basing on intensive farming and work their land on sloping terraces cultivating rice and corn, since the vast majority of the land is mountainous. However self subsidiary is still the main feature of their production and lifestyle with almost no contact to the out side world until 1990 when tourism started in the region. On the other hand, due to hard weather & climate condition, only one crop can be cultivated in a year and the productivity depends much on nature thus led to a fact that food shortage is quite common here.

For nearly two decade, thanks to the all aspect development of the region in an attempt to turning Sapa into one of the country’s premier tourist destination, the local ethnic peoples has experienced great changes and enjoy invaluable benefit. Road to remote villages is continuously built and upgraded, many schools were built…and the most important one is the revolution in agriculture and fast development of tourism which helps the majority ethnic peoples in Sapa improve their live dramatically.
Luckily that in spite of all fast changes taken place in recent years, the ethnic minority peoples in Sapa still maintain well their colorful and unique culture.

B – Localities and attractions
1 – Sapa Town
Nested under the shadow of Fansipan mountain, Sapa Town beautifully sits on a hill top at 1,600m above sea level, viewing over the Muong Hoa valley. Being unknown until 1880s when the French arrived Sapa town was quickly became well-known for its natural beauty, fresh and cool climate. As a result, in early decades of 20th Century, It was built into a summer resort by the French with some hundred villas to accommodate their colonials to escape away from summer heat of cities in lower regions.
The resistant war against the French(1945-1955), caused a lot of damages and Sapa was almost isolated and forgotten until 1990s when tourism started again in Vietnam. Sapa woke up to welcome the first tourists in early 1990s and be developing into a large town to serve the booming tourism. Although experiencing such fast growing, the town is well maintained its own charms and resisted its harmony to the surrounding nature. From the top of Ham Rong Mountains a perfect panorama view of the town open wide with lovely architectures and buildings under the shades of pine trees which centered around the Church and market place.

2 – Cat Cat Vilage
Cat Cat is a village of the Black H’mong, about 5 Km west of Sapa Town. Located near the bottom of a deep valley right at the foot of Fansipan, the village is surrounded by high mountains and terraced rice paddies on hill slope. There is a waterfall near the village where the French built a hydraulic power station and It is really a beautiful sport. A short walk from Sapa Town to Cat Cat Village, especially in late afternoon to admire magnificent landscape is worthwhile.

3 – Muong Hoa River & Valley
Starting as a small stream of water from the foot of Silver Waterfall about 14 Km northwest of Sapa town, weaving its way along mountains’ feet southeast between the two mountain ranges. About eight kilometers southeast of Sapa town, the two mountain ranges open wider to form the Muong Hoa Valley which get wider and wider as it goes further south about 30 km. The Muong Hoa valley is famous for breathtaking scenery and is the largest farmland for rice growing in Sapa district.

4 – Y Linh Ho Village
Located about 7 km southwest of Sapa town, on the west side of Muong Hoa River. Y Linh Ho is a small commune composed by a dozen of small hamlets scattering on the very tough mountain terrain with high and steep mountains. There are some hundred inhabitants from the Black H’mong only living in this commune. They built their rudimentary houses on their farmland and mainly cultivate corn and dry rice on the steep hillsides. The only way to get to the commune is on foot from the main road. It is also the place where we start many of our hiking tours.

5 – Lao Chai Village
About 8 – 9 Km southeast of Sapa town on the west bank of Muong Hoa River, Lao Chai is a commune composed by three large villages with over 100 families of the Black H’mong ethnic. From a high point of the main road 8 Km from Sapa town, great view of the whole village open wide to offer the marvelous panorama of the village, backed by high mountains and facing the river. The H’mong people in this village experience rice intensive farming on the lower land near the bottom of the valley as main source of earning while growing corn on the mountain slopes at the back of the village.

6 – Ta Van Village
Next to Lao Chai on the same side of Muong Hoa River is Ta Van village where the Zay and H’mong ethnic people live together. This is one of the best places to see the different traditional ways of living as well as cultural assimilation. The Zay live a sedentary style and always choose the low land near valleys’ bottom and river for growing wet rice while the H’mong prefer higher elevation for corn farming. Especially some decade ago when poppy cultivation for opium was not forbidden. Recently, the H’mong changed from sifting into sedentary way of life they gradually move to lower land and learn many things from others. At this moment Ta Van can be reach by car, Jeep, mini van. However a trail up and downhill from Y Ling Ho through Lao Chai to Ta Van offers superb and romantic rout to hikers.

7 – Su Pan Village
Also located along Muong Hoa Valley like Lao Chai and Ta Van but Su Pan commune can be referred to as “mountainous commune”. Occupying the highland on the east side of the main road about 17 Km from Sapa town, Su Pan including 4 small hamlets of the Black H’mong and Red Zao looks down to the Muong Hoa Valley and is one of the poorest commune to Sapa due to the thin and poor soil. Walking uphill from the road, one can see rudimentary houses built on the rocky farmland where the locals cultivate corn for their staple food.

8 – Giang Ta Chai Village
Opposite to Su Pan on the other side of Muong Hoa River and valley is Giang Ta Chai village of the Red Zao ethnic, nested under shade of the trees and bamboo hedges near a large and magnificent waterfall. The Red Zao people here built their houses on the rocky land and little bit reserved to outsiders. From the main road, a narrow trails as a string down to the river and a romantic suspension bridge cross to the other side, passing the foot of the waterfall to the village.

9 – Ban Ho Village
At the end of the motor way about 25 Km from Sapa town lies a vast and flat valley, circled by mountains and hills. It is Ban Ho valley home to the Tay ethnic. The Muong Hoa River winds its way around the village provide fresh water for 2 crops of rice and bean every year and it make the scenery of the valley more romantic. The Tay people possesses high rice farming technique and live sedentary lifestyle. Their villages are often very large with hundred households. Their houses are impressively built on stilts in unique structure to form superb dwellings. It is also a very good village for experiencing home stay.

10 – Thanh Son – My Son – Nam Cang Villages
Lying at the southern edge of the district, about 35km from Sapa town, these three villages each consist of about 10 to 15 families are among the most remote villages and home to the Xa Pho, a very small ethnic group populated as few as nearly 4,000 in Vietnam only. Till nowadays these people rarely contact with people from other group and most of them can speak their own slang only. However schools were built in these villages recently and the children now go to school. The Xa Pho in these villages are among the poorest people in Vietnam due to backwards farming technique. They mainly live on slash and burn agriculture, hunting, gathering forest products such as bamboo shoot, mushroom. For about 10 years up to now, some projects and programs have been carrying out here in order to help villagers to handle better farming technique to improve their life but it will take time. A tough trail which takes about 5 to 6 hours walk from Ban Ho village which offers fabulous scenery and a chance to explore, meet and witness the amazingly hard life of the Xa Pho in these villages.

11 – Ma Tra & Ta Phin Villages
Lying some kilometers east of Sapa town lies a large oval shaped valley which is home to the H’mong and Red Zao of Ma Tra and Ta Phin Village. Following the main road from Sapa to Lao Cai for 4km, one can enjoy the panorama view of the whole valley, stretching for about 12 Km with some low hills in the middle to divide the valley into two parts. The closer part to the road is area of Ma Tra village and the further one is Ta Phin village where the Red Zao and Black H’mong share the land. The H’mong occupy the higher land on which they built narrow terraced rice paddies while the Red Zao cultivate larger and flat fields around the center of the valley. From over 10 years ago, a 15km motor way was built to connect the center of the valley with Sapa town and it takes only half an hour. However, It is much more interesting to follow the trail which run on high elevation around the valley for a real life discovery.

12 – Silver Waterfall & Tram Ton Heaven gate
Following the main road 4C 14km further north is the famous Silver Waterfall and 4 km more is the highest mountain pass of Vietnam which is called by locals Heaven Gate. The road ride offers great view of the magnificent Fansipan on the other side of the valley with immense lush forest. Tram Ton pass is also an ideal point for enjoying breathtaking scenery of the west side of Fansipan which is very different from the east side due to the different climate.

ETHNIC MINORITY MARKETS
A - General
Ethnic minority peoples or hill tribal peoples dominate Sapa as well as the northern mountainous region of Vietnam. Although minority people lived their traditional live basing on self subsidiary style, the need for exchanging their products is always strong. And more than that the wish of meeting others for socializing is very important which adds special significant to the meaning of markets in the mountainous region where most of the ethnic minorities live in remote and isolated villages.
As going to attend a festival, tribal peoples always wear their best colorful traditional costumes to go to the markets. After selling out their produces such as fruit, rice, corn, vegetable, handicraft, chicken, pigs or even buffaloes and horses… men gather, sitting on wooden bench at many footstalls drinking corn wine while women with children enjoying noodle soup and all talking cheerfully. Especially the markets give youngsters chances to make friend with others and seeking for lover!
It is always a fantastic experience to visitors to attend one of these local markets as part of a memorable vacation in Vietnam.

B – Ethnic Markets near Sapa in Lao Cai Province
1 – Sapa Market
Sapa market located at the center of Sapa town and and is opened every day. But it is most crowded on Saturday late afternoon and evening
Before the French built Sapa town into a town, the market place was on the sandy ground about 7 km east of the town now, at the junction of the main road to Lao Cai and the trail to Ta Phin Village. Until 1980s, when the population of the region was small and transportation was very poor, It was really hard to communicate among villages, the market offered probably the only chances once a week for H’mong and Red Zao peoples to meet others. The main market took place on Sunday but many went to the market the afternoon before because their villages were too far and it took many hours to go on foot. Of course there were no accommodation for rent then, so for passing the night they gathered around fire talking, playing their traditional music, dancing… Gradually these activities attracted the youngsters from villages near by to come and turned the market into a dating place for lovers. Nowadays, due to fast development in the region to make it easy for locals to communicate among villages, as a result, the market in Sapa has been becoming less important spiritually. However, it is still crowded every weekend and worthwhile to spend few hours to join local for a life experience.

2 – Bac Ha Market
Opened every Sunday at the center of Bac Ha township, this is the biggest ethnic market in Lao Cai Province and probably among some most interesting ones in the northern mountains. Some thousands peoples from ethnic groups including Black Zao, Tay, Phu La and Flower H’mong wearing their best traditional clothes attend the market to turn it into a kind of festival. Commodity sold at the market is varied from embroidered clothes, handicraft, farming produces, food… to poultry and cattle such as vegetable, spices, chili, chicken, cat, piggy, doggy… At the market place, after finishing their shopping, peoples gathered into groups at footstalls or restaurants enjoying “Thang Co” a kind of H’mong traditional specialty, drinking corn wine and talking cheerfully.
Some hundred meters away from the main market place is the buffaloes and horses market and it is really interesting to see the buyers carefully searching in order to find out the strengths and weaknesses of the animals before buying because a buffalo or horse is a real important property in their farming work. The best time to join the market is from 09.00 to 12.00 but it is fascinating to spend few hours earlier to see the people along the trail to the Bac Ha Market.
It is worthwhile to spend at least a day and night here to explore some ethnic villages nearby and joining the locals for the best market for a memorable experience.

* Bac Ha is located 70 km, northeast of Lao Cai City and take about 2 hours by road; 105 km from Sapa and takes 3 hours to go by road.

3 – Muong Hum Market on Sunday
Muong Hum is a large and important market in the northwest region of Lao Cai Province. Very different from Bac Ha and Sapa market which lye inside the district townships, Muong Hum Market is set on open flat land at the bottom of a large and scenic valley by a small river and surrounded by terraced rice paddies. It is often empty and quiet on the other weekday, waken up and busy on Sunday. This market is well-known as one of the most interesting Sunday market in Lao Cai province and possibly a good alternative trip to Bac Ha market for visitors thanks to the very large variety of the ethnic minority peoples to attend and quite easy to be distinguished through their traditional clothes. The flower H’mong wear thick embroidered yellow and red skirts and blouses while the Red H’mong prefer thinner red embroidered patterns on light batik background; In contrast, the Black H’mong in dark indigo with just some decorative motive at the end of the shirt sleeves and round the neck. Red Zao and Zao Tuyen wear black trousers and shirts with fine yellow embroidery motifs and pay much attention to the decoration to their headgears including silver chains and bells. There are also many Zay, Tay and Ha Nhi people joining the market who wear less colorful clothes but no less beautiful.

* The road trip to Muong Hum takes 2.5 hours from Sapa(75km) and 1.5 hour from Lao Cai although the distant is only 42km due to tough road.

4 – Can Cau Market
Can Cau is a rural ethnic market, simply set up on the open ground at the side of a mountain, looking down a picturesque valley about 20 km north of Bac Ha. It is every Saturday morning when hundreds of ethnic peoples mainly Flower H’mong gather to sell their farming products and buy necessities. The market’s most colorful part is clothes section with shirts, blouses, skirts…or parts of the traditional costumes with embroidery patterns in different motifs lying on dark batik background but may be the most interesting section is the tobacco and wine section when buyers are allowed to taste the product before buying and many men get too drunk to buy anything more!
In the perfect light of the early morning, It is not only the colorful market and the peoples but also the beautiful surrounding nature make the visit here an unforgettable trip, especially for nature lovers and photo hunters.

* The road ride takes 30 minutes from Bac Ha(22km), nearly 3 hours from Lao Cai(90km) and about 4 hours from Sapa(Aprox 130km).

5 – Coc Ly Market on every Tuesday
Same as Can Cau, Coc Ly is a small rural market nested itself off the beaten track amongst green and fabulous forest, on a bank of the Chay River. At the crowded hours from 09.00 to 11.00, the market place is dominated by the red and yellow colors from traditional costumes of the Flower H’mong women, dotted with black color of the Black Zao and dark blue from the Tay. The H’mong and Zao from up mountain villages come to the market mainly on foot with their horses carrying their selling while the Tay live along the Chay River use their wooden boats. The best way for tourists is to take the road trip to the market and the boat downstream the Chay River for a few hours to explore this untouched area.

* the road trip takes 1.5 hour from Lao Cai or Bac Ha( About 55km) and 2 and a half hours from Sapa( 90km)

6 – Cao Son Market on Wednesday
Upstream the Chay River about 25 km to the north of Coc Ly market, near Chinese border, the remote Cao Son market is simply set in a fascinating nature and surrounded mountains which covered by lush plantation and terraced rice paddies and cornfields. Most the participants are Flower H’mong, Black Zao, Nung, Tu Di, Pa Di ethnic form villages in the surrounding region but many come from China to add more colors to the market. Cheerful and smiling faces are everywhere at the market place and the peoples behave like close friends meeting again after long time away. It is easy to realize women from different groups through traditional costumes they wear while men’s dress are similar.
More over, a trip here to the market in combine with exploring and visiting the villages nearby is a special offer to those who dare to forget modern facilities of city life and dedicate time and energy to the discovery of the local traditional values.

* The road trip here takes about 2 and a half hours from Lao Cai (75km) and 3 and a half hours from Sapa(115Km)

7 – Muong Khuong Market on Sunday
Bordering with Chinese Yunnan Procince, Muong Khuong is a district of Lao Cai Province which is home to a diversity of ethnic minority groups including H’mong, Zao, Nung, Pa Zi and Tu Zi. Located at the center of the township, Muong Khuong Market, the most important market of the local ethnic peoples takes place on every Sunday, is always crowded with some thousands minority people from early morning. The H’mong and the Zao peoples, especially women are always wear their best colorful traditional costume and take the largest number. The Tu Zi and Pazi are of minor number but their traditional costume are of special model with dark color and high top hats. There are also many ethnic minority people come from the other side of the border, who often bring cheap Chinese made commodity to add to the variety of goods for sales at the market. Beside a collection of most popular commodity such as clothes, vegetable, food, farming tools, animals… which can be found in other market in the regions, some local specialties can be found at Muong Khuong Market including resin, incense made from tree bark, and medicinal herb for treatment together with acupuncture. Our one day trip to Muong Khuong from Sapa or from Lao Cai for those clients taking Saturday night train from Hanoi offers not only a chance to join the ethnic locals at this impressive market but also many opportunities to pay visiting to near by villages and admiring stunning scenery around the region.

* Muong Khuong is 50km from Lao Cai, 1.5 hour to drive and 87km from Sapa, which takes approximately 2.5 hours.

8 – Pha Long Market Saturday
Locating just few kilometers away from Chinese border, on a hill top amongst perfect nature setting, the Pha Long Market is a very rural and seldom visited by tourists. Every Saturday morning, local peoples from H,mong, Zao, Zay, Pa Zi, Tu Zi and Tu Lao, the 3 small branches of the Bo Y group with just some thousands inhabitants, living in the villages along the border gather.
Attending the market, It is quite easy to realize that many peoples at the market know one another well because the population of the region is small and relationship among the people is strongly maintained. The market often over around noon and it is a great experience to follow some local to their village near by for an interesting discovery of local culture and living way. The market surrounding area offers breathtaking scenery of the mountain terrain featuring with lush forest, pine plantations and terraced rice paddies which dominated the low land and valleys.

* It takes 2 hours by road from Lao Cai town (68km) and 3 hours from Sapa 95km.

9 – Tam Duong & Binh Lu Market
On the west side of Hoang Lien Son mountain range in the territory of Lai Chau Province, there are two regional market being set up in the two lush valley Binh Lu and Tam Duong. The ethnic minority peoples who are different from those in Sapa are Black Zao, Zao with coins, Red H’mong and especially the Lu and Lao, whose ancestors were believed to be originated from a tribal living in Laos. With a population as small as some four thousands inhabitants the Lu and Lao people live in some large villages including some hundred houses built on stilts near rivers and stream, cultivating wet rice, corn and beans. Every day, early morning or late in the afternoon, a large number of Red H’mong and Lu often carry their gathering from the forest including mushroom, bamboo shoot, fire wood or medicinal herbs to the market in Binh Lu township about 45km from Sapa by road.

Being set up just on the side of the main road and surrounded by steep mountains and hills covered with green tea plantation, the Tam Duong market is held on every Thursdays. It is not as big and colorful as the markets in Bac Ha and Muong Hum and crowded on some moths from September to April but is worth to spend an hour attending these 2 markets as additional activity to the Northwest trip.

* The road trip here takes about 3 hours from Lao Cai (127km) and 1 and a half hours from Sapa(90Km)

10 - Lung Khau Nhin Market
Taking place every Thursday, Lung Khau Nhin Market is a small market hiding itself amongst the mountains and forests of the far north Vietnam about 10 km from the border with China. Although not being so big or famous among visitors as Coc Ly and Can Cau, Lung Khau Nhin market, be side a normal shopping place, play an important role to spiritual life of local ethnic peoples Flower H’mong, Black Zao, Zay, and especially to those who come from very small ethnic groups such as Pa Zi, Tou Zi, Tou Lao who live in small and isolated villages around this corner of the country, come for meeting, socializing...

From Lao Cai: 65Km and takes nearly 2 hours by road; From Sapa: 102km and takes about 3 hours by road

11 - Lung Phin Market
If most of the mountain markets in Vietnam happen on weekend, Lung Phin is a different one which is rich local culture meaning. This is based on the date of 12 animal designations in clued Rat, Ox, Tiger, Hare/Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep/Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig. This market is every day of Monkey and Tiger.
From the late afternoon of the day before the Flower H’mong, Black Zao, Tay and Phu La peoples gather here from the surrounding areas and have one night meeting friends who come from other villages. The old people talk about their family, children, works…while young people talk about love and marriage…some of them would come with instruments and dance to warm up the cold night.
The market is right on the hillside near the main road between Bac Ha and Can Cau with some thatched huts where at the corner they tie animals.

12 - Si Ma Cai Market on Sunday
Hiding itself in the mountains and forest at the far end of a tough road, Si Ma Cai Market is often referred to as one of the remotest tribal market of the region and rarely visited by tourists.
The name Simacai means “ horse market” in H’mong language and old peoples said that It was the biggest horse market of the region. However, life is changing fast and horses are not the only purchasing objects nowadays.
The market place is simply a large ground near the recently developed town let of Simacai District with some thatched huts built to accommodate shops and food stalls. Every Sunday, Simacai market attracts some thousands of Flower H’mong, Zao, Phu La peoples from villages in the region come to shopping, enjoying themselves meeting friends and relatives…after hard working days. They spend most of their time at the market talking, chatting and also drinking a lot.

Want an independent tour and private tour, please email us at: info@footsteptravel.com to get more information and assistance

Responsible Travel VietNam

A small thing we do on our tours can make a big difference,so everyone at FootStep Vietnam Travel,we strive our best to minimize the impacts while giving maximum enjoyment from your traveling experience.
With our commitment to the communities and environments in which we visit,we seek to preserve the regions’ timeless traditions,cultural heritage,and fragile habitats. This is evident throughout our vacation experiences,and paves the way for unforgettable travel experiences. The vast majority of our luxury vacations are led by local guides using local suppliers for transportation,accommodation in environmentally-friendly Vietnam Hotels and local activities. We also contribute to local charities and reputable projects worldwide.Our main goal is to Promote responsible travel and Eco-tourism,help support sustainable development,educate our travelers and help protect the cultures and environments they visit.

In our quest to support sustainable tourism worldwide,we will do our best to ensure that your children and their children are able to enjoy their vacation as much as the ones we offer you today. We recognize that demonstrating responsible business practices towards the environment and the communities within which we operate is key to our achievement of this long term goal.

FootStep Vietnam Travel  Team Responsibility
Every time we travel,whether by car,train,plane or coach,we are burning fossil fuels and contributing greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. And while there are many ways to travel while on vacation,we are pleased to advise that by choosing one of our many travel experiences,you are opting for one of the most environmentally friendly ways in which to do it.

With constant improvements in technology newer engines offer greater fuel efficiency while also emitting less pollutants. We are reducing the carbon footprints and environmental impact in our offices by introducing recycling,energy reduction and waste minimization projects as well as supporting local community projects where we live and work. Our staff are proud to be involved in making a difference by spending some of their time volunteering in charitable projects.

Great impact:
Community Support: You will see,on this cruise,quite a number of local people involved in our tourism activities,we try to benefit them as much as we can including using the labour,their food,their local guide services,etc…

Environment: It’s our responsibility and also the villagers’ to take care of the environment in this beautiful Bay,we’ve been in partnership with the local authority,local people to clean part of the Bay,at the place they are living and where we are cruising through.

Your Contribution: When you book with us,you contribute 2% of tour cost for this school for needy children. You will be also getting detailed report from FootStep Vietnam Travel team at the end of every year.

FootStep Vietnam Travel  is locally owned and managed by the FootStep Vietnam Travel Team,which comprises people with a long history in travel. Vietnam is our home – we know our country,its traditions and customs intimately. Our aim is to present you with in depth Local Knowledge.

FootStep Vietnam Travel Team pleased to inform you that we have a wide range of long term contacts with our partners in the hospitality industry of Vietnam. We’ll do our best to professionally serve and care for you individually for any of your needs regarding your vacations.

FootStep Vietnam Travel Team will take into consideration your interests and expectations,and we can offer you different travel itineraries for Vietnam holidays that will satisfy your individual choices. Our qualified,experienced and dedicated staff is committed to delivering as much attention to you as possible,and to ensuring your safety and comfort on all of your tours.

There are many things you can do while traveling to minimize your environmental impact. Some of them you may already do at home but you can also do them while on vacation:

    When you’ve finished with your vacation brochures,pass them onto a friend or recycle them.
    Buy local produce which reduces air miles incurred in transporting the food to a kitchen for final preparation.
    Respect the local culture and traditions where you are traveling through. Ensure your dress and behavior is appropriate for the places you visit. If you’re unsure,ask your tour manager.
    Minimize waste by bringing your own water bottle and reusing it,and refuse or reuse plastic bags when shopping.
    Learn a few words of the local language and ensure the way you dress,eat and greet people is polite according to the local custom.
    Please don’t pick plants and flowers,leave them for others to enjoy.
    At your hotel use water sparingly,take short showers instead of baths and hang towels for drying and reuse.
    Separate paper from plastic and try to recycle as much as possible.
    Throw any litter in the bin and keep the local environment tidy.
    Switch lights off &air conditioning off if you are not in the room or don’t need them.
    Turn off your TV instead of leaving it on standby.
    Support a local environmental group and learn more about what you can do.
    Reduce your use and waste of precious resources such as water,food and energy.
    Leave as much packaging at home from goods you buy for your trip and recycle as much of this as possible.

Ethical travel in Vietnam
Traveling to a foreign country is a privilege of the wealthy. FootStep Vietnam Travel thinks that we can minimize our impacts by respecting the local customs,beliefs and society. Together,that we can make a difference!

Buying local

•     By using locally produced goods and services,you can contribute financially to the community you are visiting and help turn tourism to the country’s benefit.
•     Drink and eat local food when you can.
•     Use local transport and local shops.
•     Try to avoid paying for simple acts of kindness in cash – for example,being given directions.
•     Hire a local guide when visiting protected areas or historical sites. This way you will contribute to the local economy,learn more about the area.

Giving money or gifts
    Giving money away to both children and adults promotes a begging mentality and culture.
    Avoid giving children money or gifts,it is better to pay for a postcard,map,or a shoeshine.
    Giving chocolate or sweets is a bad idea,as many people do not have access to dentists and knowledge of dental hygiene is poor.

The hard sell
    Vietnam is developing country,and one that has experienced a long period of war so poverty is obvious and unavoidable.
    If a street seller approaches you,be firm but polite and calm in turning them away,even if you are irritated by a day filled with similar approaches.
    Take a cyclo when you can,as they are a great way to see a city and view street life at close quarters. Cyclos today are losing out to taxis and xe om (motorbike taxis),so you’ll also be supporting a threatened trade.
    Negotiate prices in advance before accepting either goods from street sellers,or getting on a xe om or into a cycle.

The sex trade
    In Asia,prostitution is an unfortunate fact of life. Be aware that prostitution is illegal in Vietnam.
    Don’t buy sexual services,remember that the relationship between tourists and prostitutes is almost always unequal and tends to be exploitative.]

What else you can do while touring Vietnam
There are many things you can do while traveling to minimize your environmental impact. Some of them you may already do at home but you can also do them while on vacation:
When you’ve finished with your vacation brochures,pass them onto a friend or recycle them.
Buy local produce which reduces air miles incurred in transporting the food to a kitchen for final preparation.
Respect the local culture and traditions where you are traveling through. Ensure your dress and behavior is appropriate for the places you visit. If you’re unsure,ask your tour manager.

• Minimize waste by bringing your own water bottle and reusing it,and refuse or reuse plastic bags when shopping.
• Learn a few words of the local language and ensure the way you dress,eat and greet people is polite according to the local custom.
• Please don’t pick plants and flowers,leave them for others to enjoy.
• At your hotel use water sparingly,take short showers instead of baths and hang towels for drying and reuse.
• Separate paper from plastic and try to recycle as much as possible.
• Throw any litter in the bin and keep the local environment tidy.
• Switch lights off &air conditioning off if you are not in the room or don’t need them.
• Turn off your TV instead of leaving it on standby.
• Support a local environmental group and learn more about what you can do.
• Reduce your use and waste of precious resources such as water,food and energy.
• Leave as much packaging at home from goods you buy for your trip and recycle as much of this as possible.

Impression of Phu Quoc 5 Days

Day 1: Sai Gon - Phu Quoc (L)
In the morning: Our car and tour guide will meet the tourists at Phu Quoc Airport - take the tourists to the hotels by cars – make room receiving procedure repose – beach sightseeing at the hotel- have lunch.
In the aternoon: Visit Da Ban Stream, visit Phu Quoc traditional fish sauce manufacturing establishment.

Day 2: Visit the East of the Island (B, L)
In the morning :Visit Su Muon Pagoda (Hung Long Tu).
Visit Ham Ninh ancient Seine Village( Study the life of the fishermen)
Visit Suoi Tranh Resort , take a bath in the stream ( from May to November )
Visit Sim wine manufacturing establishment, enjoy Sim wine.
Visit Dinh Cau – symbol of creed of inhabitants in the island. Come back to the hotel
In the evening : The tourists explore the Island freely

Day 3: Go fishing, Snorkling - Observing Coral reefs (B, L)
In the morning: Have breakfast at the hotel
Visit Coi Nguon art exhibition
Visit dog farm with back swirled dogs famous for wise.
Study techniques for raising oysters and taking pearls at Uc pearl artificial raising establishment.
Visit revolutionary relic Phu Quoc prison.
Visit Fish Port and An Thoi dried fish market – Visit the archipelago in the South on a yacht, the tourists can observe 12 islands which are various in size, go fishing at the big islands such as: Hon Dua, Hon Thom, Hon Roi ( taste the grilled fish in the uninhabited Island.)
Have lunch on the yacht or in the uninhabited Island.
Snorkling – observing the colorful coral reefs at Da Trao snout – Seabathing at the uninhabited Island.
The yacht will take the tourists back to the land - The cars will take the tourists to Bai Sao to visit and photograph.
Return to the Town, buy specialities of Phu Quoc at Duong Dong market. Come back to the hotel.
In the evening: Visit Dinh Cau night market freely

Day 4: Visit North Island - ObserveThe Sea frontier of Campodia (B, L)
In the morning: Have breakfast at the hotel.Tourists will visit the North Island by cars.
Visit Khu Tuong pepper garden( famous territory for pepper in Phu Quoc)
Go throught the Origin Forest to enjoy fresh air and photograph the tall old trees
Visit the Vietnamese Hero Nguyen Trung Truc in the North Island.
Lunch - seabathing, observe the Sea frontier of Campodia, take a rest.
In the afternoon: Visit Bai Dai (This is the most beautiful and uninhabited beach in the world )
Come back to the hotel, seabathing - have dinner.
In the evening: Tourists enjoy yourselves or join in the activities of the fishermen in the island. (self-sufficient cost)

Day 5: Phu Quoc - Sai Gon ( B, L )
Have breakfast at hotel and check out.Our car will pick you up then transfer to airport for your flight back to Ho Chi Minh.
End of service

Want an independent tour and private tour, please email us at: info@footsteptravel.com to get more information and assistance

Saigon and Da Lat Conference Program 5 Days

Day 1: Saigon – Arrival (Lunch, Dinner)
Pick up at Saigon airport and transfer to hotel. The half day city tour will take you around the city, from downtown Saigon to Chinatown, in order to get a general view of a developing city. See places of interests such as Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office and Reunification Hall. Visit the Thien Hau pagoda and the bustling Chinese district. In the evening enjoy the unique Ao Dai show and the Saigon night life at classy bars and cafés. Overnight in Saigon.

Day 2: Saigon – My Tho (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Enjoy a full–day excursion to My Tho, a peaceful town on the bank of Mekong River. The tour comprises a cruise on the Mekong River, a visit to orchards and local homes, a sampan ride on palm-shaded creeks, a taste of seasonal fruit & honey tea and a performance of traditional southern singing. Lunch of fresh Mekong specialties is arranged. Vegetarian food is available on request. Return to Saigon in the late afternoon. In the evening, enjoy dinner on a boat while cruising through the city at night. Overnight in Saigon.

Day 3: Saigon – Da Lat (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Transfer to the airport for the flight to Da Lat. Pick up at the airport and transfer to hotel. Da Lat was established as a hill station during the French colonial period and much of its charm remain untouched. It is renowned for its Colonial French-styled villas, lakes, golf course and pine forests. A half day sightseeing tour is highlighted with by the Bao Dai’s tomb, Cremaillere Railway and a flower farm and Datanla waterfall. In the evening an optional event can be organized on demand with minority dances and traditional music. Overnight in Dalat.

Day 4: Da Lat (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
After having breakfast, we’ll bring you to the famous Da Lat Market for shopping and to visit Truc Lam pagoda. Otherwise, you may choose to go play golf on Vietnam’s best course. In the afternoon joint a half day conference at your hotel. Overnight in Da Lat.

Day 5: Da Lat – Saigon – Departure (Breakfast)
Transfer to airport for flight to Saigon. Connecting flight back home.  

Want an independent tour and private tour, please email us at: FootStep Vietnam@Gmail.Com to get more information and assistance.