Travel from north to south on this 10 day journey and experience the best in Vietnamese culture, history and cuisine and learn how to make authentic Vietnamese food.

When you think of Vietnam, you can't help but think of the delicious cuisine and the aromas of fresh Vietnamese mint or steaming pho broth. Food is such an essential part of life, and travelling to sample the food of a country is possibly the most immersive journey you can take. This ten day tour takes you from North to South, covering the length of this fascinating country steeped in history, stunning scenery and of course, amazing food.

Day 1 HANOI

Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Day 2 HANOI

Enjoy a morning sightseeing tour of Hanoi followed by lunch at Koto Restaurant, close by the Temple of Literature. This afternoon, take part in a hands-on cooking class in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, at the home of a true Hanoian who learned her culinary skills from her grandmother, a former chef who once served the French elite in the 1930s. (B)(L)(D)

Day 3 HANOI - HALONG BAY

Travel to Halong Bay and board your junk. Halong Bay is one of the scenic wonders of the world. Here the limestone landscape meets the sea to create one of the most stunning natural wonders on earth. It is truly breathtaking. Lunch will be served while cruising towards the bay itself. In the afternoon, enjoy some visits and/or activities or just spend some time relaxing on board. (B)(L)(D)

Day 4 HALONG BAY - HANOI - DANANG

Cruise back to the pier and return to Hanoi in time to board your flight to Danang. (B)

Day 5 HOI AN

The ancient town of Hoi An is a great place to wander around. The cobble stoned streets, historical sites and old merchant buildings will have you stepping back to another time. Take a short bicycle ride through rice paddies to the countryside (a vehicle can be arranged for those preferring not to cycle) to learn about rice cultivation with a local farming family. Enjoy lunch with the host family before riding back to the hotel. (B)(L)

Day 6 HOI AN – HUE

In the morning, explore Hoi An on foot to discover the charming, old-world trading port of narrow streets and traditional houses. In the afternoon, drive through Danang and climb over the Pass of Ocean Clouds to the wonderfully photogenic fishing village of Lang Co before visiting the Cham Museum, which contains the finest collection of Cham sculptures in the world. Enjoy an exclusive private dinner at the lovely Tha Om garden house. (B)(D)

Day 7 HUE

Enjoy a hands-on experience with a cooking class and taste Hue’s local delicacies. Learn how to prepare delicious Hue recipes in the beautiful, traditional Garden House of Y Thao. From here cycle through the ‘Old City’ to Tinh Tam Lake where there are many local-style coffee shops around the lake. Visit a local market with stalls teeming with colour. This is a great place to catch a glimpse of everyday life. (B)(L)

Day 8 HUE - HO CHI MINH

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh city, the bustling, pulsating economic hub of the south and the modern face of Vietnam. It is a frenzy of activity but beneath this facade lies a city of history, culture and charm. This afternoon, take a walking tour of vibrant Ho Chi Minh city. After having experienced the frenzy of Saigon by day, discover the lively local streets by night. Join the locals and enjoy an authentic Vietnamese evening with the opportunity to eat incredible street food. End the evening at a live music café. (B)(D)

Day 9 HO CHI MINH

Located in suburban Ho Chi Minh, today is not just a cooking class but a genuine insight into a Vietnamese kitchen. Walk to a local suburban market with your host to shop for ingredients. Head back to the house to start cooking, where you’ll eventually devour the results for lunch. A selection of dishes can be made from a menu, so rather than having a set cooking class menu see what tickles your fancy. This evening, enjoy a last blast of flavours at Mandarin Restaurant, a beautiful, charming and traditional place. You may have the opportunity to meet the chef and watch a cooking demonstration. (B)(L)(D)

Day 10 HO CHI MINH

Transfer to Ho Chi Minh Airport. (B)