A Short Break in Ho Chi Minh City

Welcome to Ho Chi Minh city! Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam and a major center for commerce, finance, and culture. Upon arrival, you are welcomed by the local tour guide and transfer to the hotel to leave your heavy luggage. Your free time to relax after a long flight. This afternoon, we start our day with a visit to the War Remnants Museum, which documents the Vietnam War in graphic detail. The museum’s exhibits are both harrowing and thought-provoking, and they provide a valuable glimpse into one of the most destructive wars in history. Next, we visited the Reunification Palace, which was formerly the Independence Palace of the South Vietnamese president. The palace was stormed by tanks on April 30, 1975, marking the end of the Vietnam War. Today, the palace has been preserved in its original state, and it’s a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era. We end our day with a walk through the city center, where we’ll see some of Ho Chi Minh City’s most iconic landmarks, such as City Hall, the Opera House, Notre Dame Cathedral (view from outside only), built between 1877 and 1883, and the colonial-styled Central Post Office. We’ll also visit Ben Thanh Market, a bustling marketplace where you can find souvenirs, handicrafts, and local delicacies. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh.

Breakfast at a hotel. You will be picked up from the pick-up point in District 1 at 07:30 08:00 am. Leaving the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City and starting your trip to depart for My Tho, the town lies on the left side of the Mekong River. Upon arrival, visit Vinh Trang pagoda which dates back to the late 19th century. Then boarding the sampan and cruising down the river around the four beautiful islands known as Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix and Tortoise islands. Stop over at Unicorn Island, go walking around the country lane and see orchards, enjoy tropical fruits, folk song music which is performed by the local people. Visit the fruit plantation. Ride a hand-rowed sampan through Thoi Son canal and treat yourself in the beauty of the countryside, visit the family business, visit honey-bee farm, enjoy honey tea and coconut candy workshop. Have lunch at a local restaurant. Time for relaxing. In the afternoon, time for cycling around the Tan Thach village, meet the local villagers to experience the local daily life in the Mekong delta. Hammock relaxing and enjoying cool breeze for those who can’t join the cycling trip. Return to Ho Chi Minh City late in the afternoon. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city.

Breakfast at the hotel. You will be picked up from the pick-up point in District 1 around 07:30-08:00 am. Morning drive to Cu Chi Tunnels: the network of over 200 km of tunnels became legendary when they played a vital role in the war. In their heyday, the tunnels were functioning underground cities, including numerous trap doors, specially constructed living areas, storage facilities, weapons factories, field hospitals, command centers, and kitchens. After a short introduction video showing how the tunnels were constructed, you will have a chance to crawl into a short section of the tunnels to feelthe oppressive narrowness and heat inside. Experience the thrill of firing an M15, AK-47,and carbine rifle at the National Defense Sports Shooting Range (at guests’ own extracost). This is your chance to get a taste of what it’s like to be a soldier in a war zone. With the help of experienced instructors, you’ll learn how to handle these powerful weapons and how to shoot them safely. Return to your hotel. Rest time of the day at leisure or free for shopping. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city.

Enjoy leisure time in the morning before your transfer to the airport for your departure flight.