What You Will Do
This tour promises a rich tapestry of experiences, starting with a visit to the iconic Cu Chi Tunnels. You"ll explore the intricate network of underground passages that served as a vital lifeline for VC during Vietnam War. Gain insight into the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people as you navigate through narrow tunnels and hidden chambers, learning about the strategies and hardships faced by soldiers. We'll visit a lacquerware factory after lunch where artisans, many of whom are victims of the Vietnam War, showcase their exceptional craftsmanship. Witness firsthand the skill and dedication that go into creating exquisite lacquerware pieces, while supporting the empowerment of individuals overcoming adversity. We will visit landscapes of the Mekong Delta on boat to local workshops, where artisans demonstrate age-old techniques in crafting bamboo fiber, coconut candy, royal jelly, honey tea, and pop rice. We also have a chance to experience sampan, a local transport manner.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Itinerary
1
Saigon Opera House (Ho Chi Minh Municipal Theater)
Standing magnificently at the heart of Saigon is the Saigon Opera House, which is also known as the Municipal Theater. The building stands as one of the impressive sight in Saigon – both night and day.
Saigon Opera House was built in 1898 by the French architect – Eugene Ferret, following the “flamboyant” style of the French Third Republic. It was set to be two meters higher than the street surface with two door layers, in order to prevent traffic noise.
Located on the city’s center axis, connecting the metro station and roundabout in front of Ben Thanh market. From a distance, the Opera House looks like a beautiful gigantic city gate. The architecture boasts stone-carved ornaments and statues at the entrance, crystal chandeliers, and shiny granite floor at the lobby area – all built with materials imported from France. The graceful oval auditorium offers 468 seats, designed to magnify performances in both audio and visual, echo-free, and also soundproof from the outside city buzz.
2
Cu Chi Tunnels
3 hours
Explore one of the relics from one of the most significant local historical events in recent memory.
Initial construction started in 1948 when the Viet Minh required somewhere to hide from French air attacks, and by 1965, the tunnel complex was estimated to consist of 200 km of tunnels. It included, hospitals, schools, meeting rooms, kitchens, and sleeping quarters. Life was difficult for the inhabitants, and to protect against outside intruders, booby traps were laid throughout the complex.
You will learn more about the conditions the people lived in, the hardships they faced, and the amazing ingenuity employed to maintain life in the tunnels. We walk past huge bomb craters - evidence of the heavy bombing campaigns in the region during the Indochina conflict, discover hidden entrances right beneath your feet, wander past tiny little chimneys in the ground that dispersed smoke from the underground kitchens, fighters would have survived on, and have an exploration the complex.
3
Sơn Mài Lâm Phát- Handicapped & Handicraft
30 minutes
Lam Phat Handicapped Handicrafts is more than just a workshop; it's a beacon of hope & creativity in the heart of Vietnam. Nestled in the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, this unique establishment empowers individuals with disabilities to showcase their talent and craftsmanship. Step inside Lam Phat and discover a world of exquisite handmade products, from intricately woven baskets to beautifully embroidered textiles. Every piece tells a story of resilience, determination, and the boundless potential of the human spirit. Witness artisans at work, honing their skills and creating stunning works of art with precision &care. From vibrant paintings to delicate ceramics, each creation is a testament to the indomitable spirit of its maker. By supporting Lam Phat Handicapped Handicrafts, you're not just purchasing a product; you're investing in a brighter future for individuals with disabilities. Join us in celebrating their talents & spreading joy through the beauty of handmade crafts.
4
Mekong Delta
3 hours
An incredibly fertile region, the Mekong Delta's prime industry is food production, producing approximately half of Vietnam's total agricultural output. Local life for villages in the area revolves around the rivers and canals that make up the delta, so much so that people are more likely to transport by river than road.
You will see what life is like beyond the city centre of the south.
Our first stop is at a farm where local people make local products, to gain an insight into one of the cottage industries in the region.
We will visit an island with lush tropical gardens where we have a chance to sample tropical fruit. Continuously, we will learn more about another cottage industry, coconut candy, local villages in the area and learn more about the traditional lifestyles, culture
We will discover local life in incredible alleys hidden insight covered tropical fruit orchards , from where we will transfer to a smaller rowing boat to help us get deeper into the smaller canals.
5
Ho Chi Minh City
After we finish the visiting in Mekong Delta, you will be transfer back to hotels in Ho Chi Minh City.
Tour end.
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