Vietnam... Few places in the world evoke the poignancy, mystery, and fascination of Vietnam. This is a land where puppets dance across still waters; where emerald-spitting dragons are credited with creating exotic landscapes; where sword-eating turtles once heralded the dawn of national freedom. Gods and legends are chronicled on the stones of ancient temple walls, while the ruins of mighty citadels bear witness to an exalted but turbulent past.

Come along on a stirring journey into this timeless and captivating land. Explore Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), its mesmerizing chaos of street life provides a charming contrast to the elegance of colonial French boulevards; Da Nang, home to the world’s most impressive collections of Cham artifacts; and Hanoi, the "Paris of the Orient," where Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, Museum, and cottage stand in solemn tribute to the "Father of Vietnam." Visit two remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Hoi An, a medieval seaport, somehow untouched by the ravages of time and war; and Hue’s ruined Imperial Citadel, once the cultural, economic, and religious center of the country.

Along the way, experience the frenetic energy of the Mekong Delta’s floating markets; visit the tragic region still remembered as the Demilitarized Zone; and explore elaborate imperial tombs, constructed as much for the emperors’ recreation in life as for eternal rest. Discover fascinating cultural museums; dine in some of the country’s most elegant restaurants; and enjoy the hearts and minds of a richly spiritual and remarkably friendly people.

For those who wish to extend their sojourn in Southeast Asia, an optional extension to Cambodia introduces you to the floating homes of Tonle Sap and to Angkor, ancient capital of the Khmer Empire, where an astonishing 100 plus ornately carved temples are among humanity’s most inspired architectural achievements.

• TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:
  
  Hanoi
  • Two nights at the deluxe Sofitel Metropole Hotel
  • Performance of traditional water puppets
  • Hanoi city tour including Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and cottage, the One Pillar Pagoda, the Temple of Literature, and the Museum of Ethnology
  • Walking tour of the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake
  
  Hue
  • Two nights at the first-class Morin Hotel
  • Perfume river cruise and exploration of Hue’s imposing Imperial Citadel
  • Excursion to the DMZ near Quang Tri and Khe Sanh
  
  Da Nang
  • Two nights at the first-class Furama Resort Hotel
  • Scenic drive through the Hai Van Pass
  • Visits to the Cham Museum and the Marble Mountains
  • Walking tour of medieval Hoi An
  • Time at leisure in Hoi An or on China Beach
  
  Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
  • Two nights at the deluxe Renaissance Riverside Hotel
  • "City Highlights" tour including Chinatown (time permitting)
  
  Mekong Delta
  • One night at the first-class Victori Can Tho Hotel
  • Cruise among the islands on the Mekong River
  • Exploration of the Mekong floating markets
  
  EXCEPTIONAL VALUES
  • Resident National and local guides
  • Professional Tour Director
  • Daily American breakfast, and two table d’hôte dinners including soft drinks and coffee or tea
  • Gala New Year’s Eve Party with cocktails, canapés, elegant dinner, wine, and dancing (December departure only)
  • All excursions and sightseeing via air-conditioned motorcoach
  • All transfers and handling of two pieces of luggage per person
  • All entrance fees, taxes, service charges, and most gratuities
  • Pre-tour information and cultural guide
  • Travel bag, luggage tags, name badge, passport wallet, packing tips, and pre-tour reading materials
  • Intra-Viet Nam air fare. International air avaialable from multiple U.S. gateways and airline upgrades available
  
  OPTIONAL POST-TOUR
  EXTENSION TO
  SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:
  • Two nights at the deluxe Grand D’Angkor Hotel
  • Daily American breakfast and two table d’hôte dinners
  • Visit to Angkor Wat
  • Tour of the temples including Angkor Thom and Bayon Temple, mysterious Ta Phrom Temple, and the Preah Khan monastic complex
  • Excursion to the Tonle Sap region with an exploration of the floating villages by boat