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Tasting an egg coffee – a Hanoi’s specialty<br>

Tasting an egg coffee – a Hanoi’s specialty

What is more of an exciting experience than sitting beside Sword Lake, feeling the light breeze, sweet sunlight touching the skin and tasting Egg coffee (Café Trứng). Egg and coffee, two seemingly incompatible combination, beaten with sugar can take you to heaven. The first sweet taste can fool you to think that this is a light dessert until the distinctively strong Vietnamese coffee kicks in. The coffee house is adorned with typical Chinese décor on the first floor, looking out the fresh view of Sword Lake. There is no better place to taste this creamy Hanoi’s specialty.

What to do?
• Panoramic view of the Restored Sword Lake - the heart of Hanoi.
• Warm, cozy atmosphere.
• Strange but excellent taste of the beaten, snowy and sweetened egg.

When can you taste this coffee?
This activity is combined with a visit to the old quarter of Hanoi and/or street foods experience.
A walk around charming Hanoi

A walk around charming Hanoi

Hanoi, a 1000-year-old city, is the capital and the heart of Vietnam. It is acclaimed for its rich history and very fine local cuisine. By taking our tour, travelers can grasp a perfect opportunity to experience the hustle and bustle of a big city and the pleasant atmosphere of an ancient city at the same time. A walking tour of 2.5 hours would bring you much more than you expect: quaint Old Town Streets, historical sites, narrow alleys crammed with local food stalls and a lot more. The local cuisine would definitely never let you down with cheap yet mouth-watering full course meals, from traditional noodles (pho) for main course to sweet soup (che) for desert. Everything is ready for you to explore as a true local.

What to do?
• Start your city tour with the Old quarter, the soul of Hanoi. It is made up of 36 streets, each of them is named after the service or the good on offer there. The Old quarter has been the historical and commercial center of the city for more than 1000 years.
• Try local food at every corner of every street, either in a restaurant or on the pavement. The best recommendation is to grab some pho, a type of traditional noodles, and then wrap up by a cup of rich and creamy egg coffee.

When to do?
Like any other big cities, the streets in Hanoi are inevitably busy all day long. If you want to experience all of the best of Hanoi and enjoy the hustle and bustle of the city, then the perfect time is from 8AM to 10 AM.
Huong Sen healthcare center – an amazing recovery with traditional massage

Huong Sen healthcare center – an amazing recovery with traditional massage

Mr. Nguyen Tai Thu, Vietnam's most famous acupuncturist professor, founded Huong Sen healthcare center. A relaxing traditional massage of 1.5 hours is available for every customer after tiring days of walking around the city.

What is it?
A gentle massage with medicinal herbs to rehabilitate your health, bring comfort to your spirit and recharge your batteries.

When and how to get there?
Being exhausted after walking around the city for days? Let’s visit Huong Sen healthcare center, located on … street, 5 km away from the Old quarter. Taxi or private cars are the best option to get there. The center is open from 9:00 AM to 10:30 PM, from Monday to Sunday.
“My Village” – A spectacular bamboo circus portrayed ancient Vietnamese village

“My Village” – A spectacular bamboo circus portrayed ancient Vietnamese village

Fishing, harvesting and all other cultural traits of ancient Vietnamese villages you can find are brought on stage in such poetic performances on bamboo poles!
You can experience Vietnamese cultural characteristics so close and lively through the play with excellent contemporary lighting effects, music & sound, which are made of 20 exotic musical instruments. Everything blends perfectly with each other to create melodious sounds and evoke peaceful, awe inspiring half-village, half-city images.
The artists communicate through such a universal method which is music, so even Western travelers, who bear no same culture, still can feel connected to the performance.

You will be in love with:
• The daily life of the Vietnamese in an ancient village from dawn to nightfall.
• Bright light and traditional music.
• A meet and greet event with the artists.

When and how to get there?
This extraordinary show takes place every day between 6 pm and 7.20 pm in Hanoi. You can easily get there on foot if your hotel is in the old quarter, or by car if you live far away.
Bat Trang Ceramic Village

Bat Trang Ceramic Village

On the bank of the Red river situated a seven-century old pottery village named Bat Trang. In the old days, artists from the village garnished royal places with their skillful craftsmanship. Nowadays, Bat Trang is still one of the most famous names in producing quality ceramics and artists have worked hard to preserve the art of making sophisticated, masterful pottery by hand.
Located in the South-east from the center of Hanoi, Bat Trang is a must-go landmark that visitors shouldn’t miss a chance to visit.

You will enjoy:
• A discovery of ceramic workshops with specialized coaches or experts.
• A walk in tranquil place far from the hustle and bustle of tourist streets
• The visit of ancient architectural style.

When and how to get to Bat Trang ?
Bat Trang is about half an hour by car from downtown Hanoi. The trip can take all day but we advise you to go there in the morning to not miss the local market.
Green tea production

Green tea production

Do you prefer your tea with fresh tra xanh (green tea leaves) or tra tau (green but dried tea)? Whether family or friends come by, a conversation starts, you wish to meditate facing nature, or simply quench your thirst, tea is part of every moment. From the early hours of the morning, in the fields, in offices, or during meals, every occasion justifies a tea break. Vietnam has its own unique tea culture, with this plant being omnipresent throughout Asia. Scented varieties like lotus, jasmine, and even chrysanthemum are favored by Vietnamese taste buds. Our host will be delighted to let you sample different varieties.

You will enjoy:
• Discovering the traditional tea-making process in Vietnam
• Learning more about the various Vietnamese tea varieties
• Meeting a local family

Best time to visit:
• From March to November
Vac & Chuong - craft villages in the sub-urban of Hanoi

Vac & Chuong - craft villages in the sub-urban of Hanoi

Let’s take a walk in Chuong and Vac villages and prepare to see the age-old, antique scene of Vietnamese villages. These towns are famous for conical hats and bird cages, the tradition of making hats and bird cages passed down in families for generations.
The leaf hat of Chuong village requires high complexity, meticulousness in choosing materials and making process. Chuong conical hat along with Ao dai make the best combination.
The craft of making bird cages in Vac Village is an art by its nature. Delicate carved patterns require skills and patience of artisans. The making process must undertake many steps to meet the criteria of durability, beauty and luxuriousness.

You will like:
• Meeting with Mr. Le Van Tuy, a famous craftsman for conical hats fabrication.
• A discovery of an original technique of making traditional Vietnamese hats from bamboo and latanier leaves.
• A fabrication of bird cages.
• The nice walk in an unknown village.

When and how to get there? These two pretty villages are next to the national road N21. A short transfer by car will take you into a green countryside and you will have unforgettable experiences.
Overnight at Cuong's homestay in Mai Chau

Overnight at Cuong's homestay in Mai Chau

Mr. Cuong, a man from Thai ethnic group, was born and bred in Mai Chau. His ancestors have settled down in this mountainous area since the 17th century. Having lived in Mai Chau for his whole life, Mr. Cuong understands deeply every aspect of this land and the culture of local people. His family and he want to welcome foreign travelers and bring Thai culture closer to them.

What to do?
• Have a peaceful night in a secluded traditional Thai house in the middle of a rice paddle
• Enjoy traditional Thai food
• Mingle with hospitable local people and learn about Thai culture
• Take part in a folk dance show and have lots of fun with the local
Excursion in Mai Chau, the soul refuge

Excursion in Mai Chau, the soul refuge

Mai Chau - the heaven on earth
140km from Hanoi, three hours by car, Mai Chau is a mysterious escape to hide away from the hustle and bustle of cities. You can feel pure, light air in the midst of unspoiled nature with a fascinating ethnic culture. A superb walking or biking tour offers a chance to truly experience an authentic way of life among White Thai and Muong, H’Mong villagers

You will like:
• Typical Thai villages and warm welcome of locals.
• Lush paddy fields and wonderful mountainous landscapes.
• Homestays and a discovery of several ethnic groups living together
• Walking or bicycle riding through fields and authentic villages.

When and how to get there?
The road from Hanoi to Mai Chau was renovated a few years ago. The transfer takes only three hours. Mai Chau has two rice seasons: February to June and July to October
Overnight at Mr. Binh Yen's house in Nghia Lo

Overnight at Mr. Binh Yen's house in Nghia Lo

In the heart of village of Nghia Lo in the north-west, you will be warmly welcomed by Mr. Binh and his family in a charming traditional Thai house, a wooden house on stilts. After a short time for set-up, you will take your time to relax and discover a truly authentic area and off the beaten track. For the dinner, you have an abundant menu such as: sauted pork, nem with fragrant leaves, local vegetable salad: papaya leaves, bamboo shoots… These specialties will be simply make awaken your taste buds! You will start your dinner with a small glass of rice alcohol, generously invited by Mr. Binh. Once your dinner is over, an unforgettable moment starts with Mr. Binh's mother and his wife. You will have an opportunity to discuss about outfits, jewelry, traditional hairstyles they wear at events. You can try on their outfits and wear their traditional Thai.
Spending a night at Mr. Binh's house you will understand all the kindness and hospitality of Thai people!

You will like :
• Warm welcome and fairly comfortable accommodation.
• A discovery of Thai culture: cuisine, traditional clothing, customs.
• A short walk in authentic villages that are far from mass tourism.

When and how to get there?
Nghia Lo (or Muong Lo in Thai language) is at 200 km from Hanoi, on Hanoi - Mu Cang Chai - Sapa road. This village, capital of the Thai ethnic group, marks the entrance to the northwest region. Two rice harvests are possible. You will have green rice field in January, March, July and yellow rice field in May, September and October.
Overnight at Yen Ken's house in Sa Pa

Overnight at Yen Ken's house in Sa Pa

On a small green hill, Mr. Yen Ken's home is away from stalls and vendors of Ta Van village. The house is built in between rice terraces, corn and vegetables fields, it offers you a very peaceful night. Despite his shyness, Mr. Ken will show you how to make spring rolls in Dzay’s style. This sublime cusine just delight your taste buds.

You will like:
• A panoramic view of rice terraces
• A quiet night away from mass tourism
• A foot bath with local medicinal plants
• A perfect dinner with traditional dishes

Best time to visit:
• May and June for transplanting rice
• September for the rice harvest
Pu Luong nature reserve

Pu Luong nature reserve

Located in the Ba Thuoc district, Thanh Hoa province, about 200km from Hanoi, the Pu Luong nature reserve offers picturesque landscapes with its rice terraces, native villages and dense vegetation. This secluded destination is a “must-see” for any natural lovers who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of popular tourist attractions and experience the true beauty of nature.
The development of te tourism industry in Pu Luong has set a good example of sustainable tourism as it brings benefits for local people, travellers and the environment. Tourism has become a great source of livelihood for local farmers, which makes them more well-aware of the importance of nature conservation

The best time to go to Pu Luong:
If you want to see green paddies beyond the horizon, you can visit Pu Luong either from April to May or from August to September. Meanwhile, during June and October, the land is covered with unlimited yellow rice terraces and the scent of mature rice plants. Finally, if you just want to have a short get-away to chill at the weekend, then winter, usually from October to December, is highly recommended.
Immersion in the nature on Dam Chuon lagoon

Immersion in the nature on Dam Chuon lagoon

Dam Chuon lagoon, at 18 km from Hue, covers an area of 3000 ha. It works on the same principle as the Tonle Sap lake in Cambodia. Here, the fishermen live in depending on the tide of lagoon: twice a day. They catch fish and crab on small wooden sampans. This large lagoon offers a perfect place for those who want to discover the life of local fishermen.

You will like:
• A stroll in the local sampan in nature
• A discovery of fishermen’s living
• An opportunity to participate in fishing with a support of a fisherman
• Tasting of local cuisine in a restaurant on stilts, admiring the sunset

Best time to go there:
We would not recommend you to explore Dam Chuon between August and November due to casual tropical storms. This lagoon is very beautiful between Marchand July.
Discover a typical village Thuy Bieu by bike among a grapefruit paradise

Discover a typical village Thuy Bieu by bike among a grapefruit paradise

With the view to providing tourists with real-life experiences, we designed this tour to Thuy Bieu village, Hue. Travellers not only can see the beauty of nature in a picturesque and ancient village in Vietnam but also can become a local craftsman for a day. On the way to the villages, there are large and beautiful grapefruit gardens where they can stop and harvest grapefruits with their own hands. The best way to get around this small village is cycling. You can easily stop by any tiny shops exhibiting and selling hand-made crafts such as paintings or clothes. Another thing that you should not miss is to try traditional Hue cuisine there.

The best time to visit Thuy Bieu:
Thuy Bieu village is peaceful and beautiful all year round, but if you want to harvest and taste local grapefruits, the recommended time is in September.
Cycling in countryside of Hoi An

Cycling in countryside of Hoi An

Escaping from crowded tourist attractions in the town, we offer you a 12-km bike tour to a secluded beach and fishing village. Walking along the sun-drenched beach, going for a dip in crystal-clear water, relaxing with the available massage services and wrapping up the day with a meal full of fresh seafood, … we bet you would have the most wonderful day on your trip there.

What to do?
• Cycle around the village and mingle with local people
• Discover the photographic exhibition of Coqueville
• Bask in the dazzling sunshine
• Have a soothing massage
• Have a tasty meal in a local seafood
Thanh Dong Eco-Tour

Thanh Dong Eco-Tour

Hoi An is a traditional ancient city. It is also a charming and peaceful region. We create therefor a cycling trip (best way to discover the surroundings) starting from its sub-urbain and stopping at local temples. Then, passing through the rice fields, you will join organic gardens for a discovery of local agriculture. This lovely trip ends with a little cooking class just on riverside and a good meal with traditional dishes.

You will like:
• Pure and calm nature in the surroundings of Hoi An
• The daily life of Vietnamese people in the center region
• Organic farming activities
• A good meal with traditional dishes in a beautiful countryside
Lunch at the family of Mr Hai My

Lunch at the family of Mr Hai My

70 years old, Mr. Hai My is the oldest brother in his family. This excellent cultivator has spent his whole life for planting in his large garden many varieties of fruit trees and bonsai: sapodos, rambutans, longan, mango,...
We arrive at his home; we meet his daughters and his wife; then savor the local cuisine, you will understand better the daily life of the south as well as the hospitality of inhabitants of delta region.

You will like:
• Meeting with Mr. Hai My, a great delta farmer
• Visiting his garden with many kind of exotic fruits
• A cooking class with the hosts
• Typical cuisine from South Vietnam
Cycling in Vam Xang, Can Tho

Cycling in Vam Xang, Can Tho

Far away from the city center, Vam Xang in Cai Rang district, Can Tho province, is the destination where we offer travellers who are into ecotourism. Tourists will have the chance to truly experience life in tropical lands with lush vegetation, harvest crops and fruits by their own hands and chill under the shadow of hundreds of coconut trees.

You will like:
• Interact with local people and learn simple arts and crafts made from plants and trees cultivated in the area.
• Harvest organic crops and fruits on their own and try them immediately
• Relax in local homestays or tents surrounded by different kinds of tropical trees.
Trekking in La Pan Tan

Trekking in La Pan Tan

Located 15 km from Mu Cang Chai, La Pan Tan is a typical village of the Hmong ethnic group. Despite its stunning beauty, this hamlet remains almost unknown. Perched at an altitude of 1,300 meters, it is a must-visit for tourists seeking authenticity. The Hmong have dominated the La Pan Tan region for over a hundred years, maintaining their unique way of life. Dressed in their traditional clothing, speaking their language, and rejecting modern lifestyles, they have developed skills that allow them to live in complete self-sufficiency. From corn grown between the rocks to rice from terraced fields, and the flax used to sew their clothes, everything is entirely produced by this centuries-old community.

You will enjoy:
• Walking through villages undiscovered by travelers
• Endless panoramic landscapes
• Discovering local culture and lifestyle

Best time to visit:
• May and June: Land preparation and rice transplanting season
• July and August: Green rice season • September and October: Ripe rice and harvest season
Spectacle chez Truc Mai

Spectacle chez Truc Mai

Founded in 1990 by Dinh Linh and Tuyet Mai, the traditional music group Truc Mai is a great destination for discovering Vietnamese music and culture. As the successor of Dinh Thin, a famous flutist in Vietnam during the 1960s and 70s, Dinh Linh is now a master flutist at the Saigon Conservatory. The concert offers a perfect musical experience of Vietnam.

You will enjoy:
• Performances of seven pieces using various techniques and instruments
• An interactive session between the guests and performers
• A discovery of traditional Vietnamese music