We have been to Vietnam before but this time felt we saw so much more by doing it in a group with a guide . This was a really good mix of cycling and sightseeing . We went to places we would never have found on our own . It was incredibly hot cycling but there are plenty of drinks stops and you start early every day to minimize the heat . There are some long transfers but the bus is good and worth it to see more of the county . The organisation is very slick compared to other exodus trips we have done . The hotel in Saigon is in a good location I recommend arriving a day early so you can see more of the city and stay a day at the end so you see more of Hanoi . We eat out at some great local restaurants and the food was so good and cheap – all organized by our guide . Hotels were all good as well .
Cultural Holidays in Vietnam
Vietnam Culture Holidays
Best Cultural Experiences in Vietnam
Hanoi City Tour: Vietnam’s cultural capital and historic heart, Hanoi, blends ancient architecture with modern-day culture, and inside the vibrant Old Quarter you’ll see colonial influences that have shaped the city. Walk among the centuries-old buildings that line the narrow streets and see the historic temples and landmarks that are dotted around the city, from the Temple of Literature and Hoa Lo Prison to the impressive Presidential Palace. Hoa Lo Prison once housed American prisoners of war during the Vietnam War but is now home to memorabilia and a French guillotine that tell of Vietnam’s struggles in the 1950s. As you explore the city further, your senses are awakened by the hum of scooters zipping through the streets, the sound of haggling market traders and the seductive aromas of Vietnamese street foods.
Walking Tour of Hoi An: Formerly a major port for traders in the 16th-century, Hoi An is a significant town that takes you on a trip into Vietnam’s rich past. This fascinating outdoor museum lies along the river and its Old Town is brimming with centuries-old merchant’s houses, Chinese temples and laid-back bars. Immerse yourself in Hoi An’s intoxicating atmosphere as you wander though the riverside market where silk garments and large bowls of fragrant spices spill out from the stalls. The iconic Japanese bridge, Quan Thang House and colourful river boats make Hoi An one of the most photogenic destinations in Vietnam.
Cruise the Mekong Delta: Experience a much slower pace as you venture into the land of the Mekong Delta. Known as the ‘rice bowl’, the Mekong is the lifeblood and lungs of Vietnam with its network of canals, rivers and streams that meander between traditional towns and villages. As you cruise along its waterways, you’ll pass boats weighed down with fruits, sugar cane and coconuts and you might even spot a buffalo or two bathing in the rice paddies. If you want to experience authentic Vietnamese culture, head to Cai Rang floating market or stop off at one of the local cottage industries where you can watch coconut candy and rice paper being made.
Explore Ho Chi Minh City: Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is the economic hub of Vietnam. Its imposing cityscape and pulsating streets fuse together ancient and modern cultures quite spectacularly. A scooter tour of the city is a fun way to explore and visit some of the main sights such as Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon Opera House and the Central Post Office but if you want to delve deeper into the past, the War Remnants Museum lets you discover the darker side of Saigon. Walking through the city at night is undeniably atmospheric with its noisy markets and street food stalls which tempt you with local delicacies like bánh xèo (savour pancakes) and com tấm (broken rice).
Wendy Tomes Cycling Vietnam
Jane Cousins Discover Sri LankaJust back from this trip, it was our first trip to Sri Lanka and our second trip with Exodus. It was a really great trip, really varied, we saw so much and yet the pace was just perfect. A beautiful country and very friendly and safe.
Helen Burrell Victoria Falls to Cape Town – CampingWe had a most enjoyable 3 weeks on this trip, and made friends on our group of ten. The camping was work, putting up our tents (with help, thanks, you know who you are !). We stayed two nights in most places, 3 in Etosha. Very early morning starts, breakfast at 7 with tents down on moving days. It was dark, and cold! However, the tents were very comfortable with beds and mattresses, and we slept really well. The food was delicious and plentiful. After long days driving, our guides turned in and cooked for us. The breakfasts were delicious too.
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