Vietnam Intro

Traveling through Vietnam can be overwhelming—so many places to see, tastes to try, and stories to hear. That’s where a guided tour like Vietnam Intro steps in, offering a comprehensive journey that balances iconic sights with authentic local experiences. We haven’t done it ourselves, but the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a pretty compelling picture.

What we love about this tour? Its variety of activities (from kayaking to cooking classes), expert local guides (notably Jeremy and Phatty), and its value for money—covering transport, accommodations, and many unique experiences for just $79. One consideration might be the pace; with so much packed in, you’ll need to keep up. But overall, it’s best suited for travelers wanting a structured, immersive introduction to Vietnam with plenty of opportunities for fun and discovery.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covering bustling Hanoi, scenic Ha Long Bay, historic Cu Chi tunnels, and vibrant Ho Chi Minh City.
• Authentic Experiences: Local homestays, crab fishing, cooking classes, and boat trips provide genuine insights.
• Expert Guides: Highly praised tour leaders like Jeremy, Phatty, and Sam make travelers feel safe and welcome.
• Value for Money: For around $79, you get 12 days of activities, transport, accommodation, and insider access.
• Pacing: Expect a busy schedule with early mornings and lots of travel; good for energetic travelers.
• Group Dynamic: Small groups, typically up to 22 people, foster a friendly, communal vibe.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers a lot for its price. Included are all transport, internal flights, 11 nights accommodation, and most meals—10 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 2 dinners—plus activities like cruise trips, bike rides, and cultural tours. The support from your group leader helps you navigate logistics and makes the experience seamless.

On the flip side, you’ll need to cover international flights, visas, travel insurance, and any extra meals or personal expenses. The accommodation costs after the included nights are reasonably priced, around £8 / $15AUD per night for multi-share rooms, payable on arrival.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Days 1-3: Arrival in Hanoi and Exploring the Capital

Starting in Hanoi, your first day is all about settling in. The tour provider ensures you’re greeted directly at the airport and taken to your hostel, which is great for easing the travel fatigue. The second day, a walking and rickshaw tour, introduces you to Hanoi’s lively streets, bustling markets, and mouthwatering street food. Reviewers consistently mention how guides like Jeremy make the city’s chaos enjoyable and safe, offering insider tips that you won’t find in guidebooks.

The highlight for many is experiencing Hanoi’s vibrant nightlife—many rave about the dinner and social scene, adding a fun ending to your first full day.

Day 3: Ha Long Bay Cruise

The tour’s signature experience is the overnight cruise on Ha Long Bay. Expect to glide past towering limestone karsts topped with greenery on emerald waters. Reviewers like “incredible” and “once-in-a-lifetime” highlight kayaking through caves, relaxing with drinks aboard, and witnessing the sunset over the bay. This part of the trip offers a sense of tranquility and awe, with many noting it as a definite highlight.

Days 4-5: Ninh Binh’s Landscapes and Local Life

Traveling south, you’ll arrive in Ninh Binh, often called “Ha Long Bay on land” for its stunning limestone formations. The trip includes biking through rice paddies and a boat ride that takes you through caves and along rivers—a favorite among reviewers who describe it as “magical” and “breathtaking.” Spending the night in a riverside bungalow adds a cozy, authentic touch, with glowing reviews about watching sunsets and enjoying local hospitality.

The day’s activities are well-paced with options to explore Dragon Mountain for sunset, offering panoramic views that many say are worth the climb. The overnight train to Hoi An allows for rest while traveling.

Days 6-8: The Charm of Hoi An

Arriving in Hoi An, one of Vietnam’s most picturesque towns, you’re met with time to relax and explore. Many mention the town’s beautiful lantern-lit streets and the chance to shop for tailor-made clothes—reviewers love how they can get custom garments made quickly.

The tour’s culinary component shines here: you’ll learn to cook Vietnamese dishes and even try crab fishing with local fishermen. The “basket boat crab fishing” and cooking class receive praise, with reviewers describing these as authentic and fun.

A highlight is making lanterns, a peaceful activity that adds a personal touch to your stay. The beach club day offers a well-earned rest amid stunning coastal scenery.

Days 9-11: Ho Chi Minh City & Mekong Delta

A short flight whisks you south to Ho Chi Minh City. The city’s energy is palpable, with reviewers noting it’s a vibrant contrast to Hanoi and Hoi An. The following day, you explore the Mekong Delta, visiting local villages and experiencing how life revolves around the waterways. The boat trips, local markets, and interactions with residents are often cited as the trip’s most authentic moments.

The Cu Chi tunnels tour is another unforgettable experience; many reviewers mention how fascinating it is to walk through the underground network used during the Vietnam War. It’s an eye-opener and adds historical context to your trip.

The final evening features a farewell dinner, often described as lively and fun, with many forming bonds that last beyond the tour.

Day 12: Departure or Continued Travel

Your adventure ends with options to continue exploring or head home. The tour provider offers assistance with onward travel plans, making it easy for you to keep the journey going.

The Experience and Group Dynamics

What makes this tour stand out is the consistent praise for guides like Jeremy, Phatty, and Sam, who are described as knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and caring. Reviewers often mention feeling safe, welcomed, and even inspired by their passion. The small group size (up to 22 travelers) fosters a friendly, almost family-like atmosphere, with travelers forming connections that many find memorable.

Activities are carefully curated to balance adventure, culture, and relaxation. From paddleboarding in Ha Long Bay to bike rides through rice paddies, you get a well-rounded taste of Vietnam’s diversity.

Accommodation & Meals

Staying in local homestays, river bungalows, and comfortable hostels adds to the authenticity. Many reviews highlight the comfort and charm of these accommodations, noting they often surpass expectations given the price. The meals included are a mix of local markets, traditional restaurants, and cooking classes, all of which reviewers say are flavorful and well-organized.

Value for Money

At $79, this tour offers remarkable value. It covers most activities, transport, and accommodations, delivering a comprehensive experience without breaking the bank. Many travelers comment that the quality of experiences, guides, and logistics make it worth much more than the price tag.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers wanting a structured but immersive look at Vietnam, especially those eager to see a mix of big cities, countryside, and coastal scenery. It suits energetic travelers who enjoy active days, cultural insights, and making new friends. The tour’s pace does require a moderate fitness level, as there’s a fair amount of movement and activity packed into each day.

It’s also ideal for solo travelers, couples, or groups looking for a hassle-free introduction to Vietnam, with experienced guides providing local insights and logistical support.

Final Thoughts

The Vietnam Intro tour delivers a well-paced, authentic, and fun introduction to this fascinating country. Its highlights—like Ha Long Bay, the Mekong Delta, and Hoi An—are complemented by expert guides and a friendly group atmosphere. While the schedule is packed, the variety of activities and immersive experiences make every moment worthwhile.

At the affordable price point, you’re getting a lot of value—covering transport, accommodations, activities, and insider access. Whether it’s your first visit to Vietnam or a repeat trip, this tour offers a comprehensive and memorable journey.

This experience is best suited for travelers looking for an active, social, and authentic tour that balances structured sightseeing with personal interaction. If you’re keen to see Vietnam in a snapshot that’s both fun and meaningful, this tour will fit the bill perfectly.

FAQ

What is the average group size?
The tour typically hosts up to 22 travelers, fostering a friendly and intimate atmosphere.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes 10 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 2 dinners, mainly featuring local and traditional Vietnamese cuisine.

Is transportation provided?
Absolutely. All transport, including internal flights, buses, and boat trips, is covered, making logistics easy for you.

What kind of accommodation can I expect?
You’ll stay in a mix of hostels, local homestays, riverside bungalows, and a private island stay, offering both comfort and authenticity.

How active is the tour?
Expect a moderate level of activity—bike rides, boat cruises, and walking tours—so some physical fitness is recommended.

Can I extend my trip after the tour?
Yes, the tour provider offers assistance with onward travel and additional nights for those wanting to explore more.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Definitely. Many reviews mention making new friends, and the guides are experienced at creating a welcoming environment.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
You’ll need to cover international flights, visas, travel insurance, and optional extras like extra nights or meals not included.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of authentic local experiences, enthusiastic guides like Jeremy and Phatty, and the diverse itinerary makes it a truly memorable way to explore Vietnam.