Exploring Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia with Greenstar Travel – Part Two

Having spent time at the end of part one of our blog exploring Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) we find ourselves in the hidden alleyways and street food heaven of the Old Quarter of Hanoi.

Hanoi

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese coffee before starting a fascinating walking voyage of discovery through the hidden alleyways that intersperse the 36 streets of the Old Quarter of Hanoi. This is secret Hanoi, far from public view, where a dark slim passage opens to a secret pagoda or hidden historical gem. Once you have got lost (and found again) in this intriguing part of the city, your guide will take you to the bustling food markets of the Old Quarter. Experience the real taste of Vietnam come hungry with an open mind!

After your busy morning, enjoy a leisurely afternoon and get ready for your trip to Halong Bay the next day and 2 day cruise aboard Dragon Legend Junk.

Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay

Transfer to Halong to join the Dragon Legend Junk and begin your cruise to Bai Tu Long Bay whilst enjoying lunch on deck. Enjoy a spot of swimming of kayaking before relaxing on deck. Enjoy dinner on board docked at Bai Tu Long.

After breakfast the next morning and perhaps a session of Tai Chi, you’ll arrive in Vung Viend fishing village where you can explore by rustic row boat. After a BBQ lunch on the beach spend another relaxing afternoon swimming, kayaking or in the spa before dinner on board.

The next morning you will cruise back to the harbour and back to Hanoi to catch your onward flight to Danang.

Danang and Hoi An

Enjoy a relaxing few days in Danang where you can take advantage of some of the best shopping in Vietnam. Take a morning tour of the UNESCO world Heritage listed Old Town of Hoi An before the crowds arrive.Try one of the best know cakes in Hoi An, Banh It La Gai, and visit the colourful waterfront and iconic 400 year old Japanese Bridge.

The next morning you can take a tour of Hoi An’s central market and begin your lesson in creating some of the city’s famous street food. Head for Ms Vy’s renowned cookery school following your market visit and learn about Vietnamese street food peculiarities and traditions and watch a cookery demonstration. And then it’s your turn to prepare tour lunch under the watchful and helpful gaze of Ms Vy or one of her assistants.

After a couple of days to really rejuvenate and soak up some Vietnamese hospitality it’s time to fly home via Danang and Bangkok.

For more information on travelling to Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia or anywhere in South East Asia, do get in touch with the Greenstar Travel team who will be delighted to help.