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Impression Of 7 Days Trip To Saigon And Hanoi By Mr. Godeau

Day 1: Arrival in Saigon – Start of the 7-day Saigon Hanoi tour

Upon our arrival in Saigon, also known as Ho Chi Minh City, we were warmly welcomed by the Vietnam travel agency - Autour Asia team. Their professionalism and deep knowledge of the country immediately created a sense of trust and comfort.

After settling comfortably at the hotel, we embarked on our first city tour. The wide, tree-lined boulevards and French colonial architecture reflected a rich historical past. I was particularly impressed by the visit to Notre-Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office, masterpieces designed by Gustave Eiffel.

In the evening, a stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street offered a glimpse into Saigon’s vibrant nightlife. Locals and tourists mingled in a festive atmosphere, enlivened by street performances and wandering musicians. This first day of the Saigon Hanoi 7 days tour ended with a tasting of local dishes at a restaurant, a culinary immersion that awakened my taste buds to the flavors of Vietnam.

Day 2: Exploring Saigon – Cu Chi tunnels

The day began with an immersion into Vietnam’s turbulent history through a visit to the War Remnants Museum. The poignant exhibits provided deep insight into the hardships endured by the country.

Next, we traveled to the famous Cu Chi tunnels. This underground network, used by Vietnamese fighters during the war, is a remarkable testament to their ingenuity and resilience. Crawling through these narrow passages gave me a better understanding of the harsh conditions of that time.

Back in Saigon, a walk through Ben Thanh Market immersed me in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. The colorful stalls offered a variety of goods, from spices to handcrafted souvenirs. The evening concluded with a dinner cruise on the Saigon River, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the illuminated city — an unforgettable experience on the Saigon Hanoi 7 days tour.

Day 3: Excursion to the Mekong Delta – Flight to Hanoi

On the third day of the Saigon Hanoi 7-day tour, we explored the Mekong Delta, a fertile region often called the "rice bowl" of Vietnam. A cruise along its winding canals offered picturesque views of lush green rice fields and stilted villages.

Visiting a local farm allowed me to taste freshly picked tropical fruits and witness the traditional craft of making coconut candy. This immersion into Vietnam’s rural life was both enriching and authentic.

In the late afternoon, we took a flight to Hanoi, the capital. Upon arrival, the atmosphere sharply contrasted with Saigon, offering a more traditional and peaceful ambiance.

Day 4: Departure for Halong Bay

After an early breakfast in Hanoi, we set off for Halong Bay, a key highlight of our Saigon Hanoi 7 days tour. The three-hour drive took us through picturesque landscapes of lush green rice fields. Upon arriving at Tuan Chau port, we received a warm welcome from the crew of our traditional junk boat.

Once the boarding formalities were completed, we stepped aboard and were greeted with a refreshing welcome drink. The captain then introduced the itinerary for our 2-day, 1-night cruise in Halong Bay. Lunch was a feast of fresh seafood, showcasing the region’s rich culinary heritage. Sailing through the breathtaking limestone formations rising from emerald waters was an unforgettable experience.

In the afternoon, we explored Sung Sot Cave, one of the largest and most impressive caves in the bay, with stunning stalactites and stalagmites in fascinating shapes. Back on the boat, we enjoyed a kayaking session, gliding through hidden lagoons and spotting local wildlife in their natural habitat.

The day ended with a lavish dinner on deck under a starry sky, followed by an exciting night squid fishing session for the more adventurous travelers.

Day 5: Halong Bay Cruise – Return to Hanoi

The sunrise over Halong Bay was a breathtaking sight, as the first rays of light illuminated the stunning rock formations. After a light breakfast, we visited Titov Island, known for its white sandy beach and panoramic viewpoint, accessible via a short hike. A refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters added to the experience. Lunch on board, featuring freshly caught seafood, delighted our taste buds and enhanced the authenticity of this getaway.

In the afternoon, we returned to Hanoi. To end the day on a cultural note, we attended a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show, an enchanting performance blending music and storytelling. This unique art form offered an enriching cultural immersion.

Day 6: Excursion to Mai Chau valley – Ba Khan Village Resort

After our return to Hanoi, we set off for Mai Chau valley, a region renowned for its picturesque landscapes and ethnic villages. The three-hour drive took us through lush mountains and rice fields, offering breathtaking views.

Our final destination was Ba Khan Village Resort, nestled on a mountainside overlooking Mai Chau valley and Hoa Binh lake. This luxurious retreat, just 2.5 hours from Hanoi, provided a tranquil escape from the bustling city. The elegantly designed rooms, featuring natural materials and contemporary décor, offered stunning views of the valley and lake.

Once settled in, we explored the surroundings of the resort. Hiking trails led us through local villages, where we met friendly residents and discovered their traditional way of life. The breathtaking scenery, with its towering mountains and lush green rice fields, was truly captivating. I captured many beautiful photos for my Saigon Hanoi 7 days album.

Back at the resort, we enjoyed the outdoor pool with panoramic valley views — a well-deserved moment of relaxation after a day of exploration. In the evening, the resort’s restaurant treated us to local specialties, prepared with fresh ingredients from the region.

Day 7: Return to Hanoi – Conclusion of the Saigon Hanoi 7 days tour

The final day of our Saigon Hanoi 7 days adventure began with a peaceful morning at Ba Khan Village Resort. After a hearty breakfast featuring local specialties, we took one last moment to soak in the serenity of the surroundings.

By mid-morning, we set off on our journey back to Hanoi. The three-hour drive allowed us to pass through familiar yet ever-captivating landscapes. Upon returning to the capital, we spent our final hours strolling through the Old Quarter, picking up souvenirs, and savoring one last cup of authentic Vietnamese coffee.

This Saigon Hanoi 7 days tour was an unforgettable experience, filled with cultural discoveries, warm encounters, and breathtaking landscapes. Each stop along the journey deepened our understanding and appreciation of Vietnam, a country rich in history and diversity.