Silversea Luxury Cruises A HO CHI MINH CITY

The Vietnam War, or the American War as it is known in Vietnam, pitched modern American technology against fierce Vietcong resistance waging a guerrilla war. On this half-day tour, experience a local perspective on wartime memories and the infamous Cu Chi Tunnels.

The two and half hour drive southwest from Saigon to the Cu Chi Tunnels is a pleasant foray into the surrounding countryside. It is hard to believe you are entering a former war zone of such strategic importance. The busy road passes through tranquil rice paddies where entrepreneurial villagers use the hot roadside as a platform for drying all manner of produce. Hundreds of sheets of paper dot the countryside, drying on woven racks in the relentless sun. A short stop is made at a small village for photos of the countryside view and paddy fields.

At Cu Chi, your guide explains the underground network, shows the displays of tools and weapons used by the guerrillas, and provides insight into the ingenious methods that the Vietnamese soldiers employed to remain undetected. Work on the tunnels began in 1948 during the war against the French, and greatly expanded throughout the 1960s.

Measuring 31 inches (80 cm) wide and five feet (1.5 metres) tall, the maze of tunnels was extensive, extending over 120 miles (193 kilometres). They included storerooms, sleeping quarters, kitchens, medical facilities and classrooms, and at one time, over 16,000 people lived in the tunnels. Most only 2 or 2.5 feet wide by 5 feet high (60-72cm X1.5 metres), the tunnels had thick roofs capable of withstanding the weight of tanks or the impact of bombs weighing up to 200 pounds (91 kilograms). Some have been enlarged to accommodate visitors at the site.

Following your visit to the tunnels, board your coach for your return to the ship.

Explore the benefits and savour the flavours of a whole-food, plant-based diet during this informative, half-day vegan excursion with lunch.

Ho Chi Minh, FITO Museum, Traditional Vietnamese Medicine, Herbal Medicinal Treatments

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 30-minute drive to the FITO Museum of Traditional Herbal Medicine. The museum is home to nearly 3,000 items that are relevant to traditional Vietnamese medicine, and date from the Stone Age. During your guided visit, see how the Vietnamese balance eating with herbal medicinal treatments.

Vegan Food Restaurant, Learn about a Whole-Food, Plant-Based Diet

Next, re-board your coach and head to one of the best-known vegan food restaurants in Ho Chi Minh to learn about Vietnamese vegan cuisine. Upon arrival, discover a whole-food, plant-based diet that has been introduced by many doctors, and supported by numerous medical studies, to maintain a healthy body and reverse a number of diseases, including cardiovascular, hypertension, diabetes and cancer. Such is the nutritional diet featured at this restaurant.

Vegan Lunch Prepared with Locally-Sourced Ingredients

Your vegan lunch is prepared with locally-sourced ingredients to provide the most vitamins, minerals, and nutrients required for optimum health and energy. In a tropical climate like Ho Chi Minh, a diet that balances whole grains, organic vegetables, beans, seaweeds, nuts and seeds, seasonal fruits, and spices is the most suitable to your health. At the conclusion of this informative and flavourful experience, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.

Experience an evening of traditional Vietnamese food and cultural entertainment as you bid Saigon a 'good evening'.

Majestic Hotel

Begin with a transfer to the legendary Majestic Hotel, which, since 1925, has occupied one of the finest locations in Saigon, boasting stunning views of the Saigon River. After you are graciously welcomed by hostesses in traditional dresses, sip pre-dinner cocktails on the rooftop terrace, with its sweeping view of central Saigon. Both the old world boutique charm of the hotel and the elegance of the columned and arched classical French-colonial design help create a special ambiance for your evening.

The Majestic has gone through several reincarnations over the years, changes that reflect the tumultuous history of Vietnam. During World War II, the Japanese Imperial Army used this French colonial structure as their military barracks. During the Vietnam War, it was frequented by foreign correspondents and espionage agents.

Enjoy a special show featuring traditional music, dances, and costumes from the northern and southern regions of Vietnam. Following the entertainment, proceed to one of the finest Vietnamese restaurants in Saigon to savour a feast of local specialties.

All too soon this special evening of Vietnamese culture and tradition comes to a close and your coach returns you to the ship.

Experience Vietnam, off-the-beaten path, to the heart of the Mekong Delta. Tour the local villages and cruise along the river for a rewarding and a truly unforgettable impression on this full-day excursion.

Mekong Delta

Depart the ship in minivans for the 2.5-hour journey along a well-paved road to the Mekong Delta area. The mighty Mekong River, originating in Tibet and flowing through several countries before its 120-mile (193-kilometre) course through Vietnam, divides into nine river mouths, aptly called the Nine Dragon Delta by locals. This flourishing region is criss-crossed by numerous natural and man-made canals serving the local traffic.

Cai Be & Mekong River

Following the drive on the highway your minivan will take you through some villages and small towns, arrive at a branch of the Cai Be River. Here, after a short comfort stop, board a local long boat for an interesting ride past villages and lush vegetation to the trading boat area. Depending on the arrival time to the river you may see local boats from which vendors sell their wares. Rising above the busy Cai Be village, you can spot the bell tower of a Catholic church built in the 19th century when the French tried to spread Christianity in the delta region.

Scenic Canal Cruising

Continue cruising along the river and, if tide permits, through smaller canals to Tan Phong Island. The scene offers some great photo opportunities and vivid impressions of life along the canals. Cross the Mekong River and stop for a visit at a local farm. Stroll through a small garden of bonsai, flowers and fruit trees and then enjoy a refreshing cup of tea with your host.

Next, the boat brings you to a local restaurant for a tasty meal of spring rolls and freshly caught Mekong fish.

After dining, re-join the van for the 2.5 hour journey back towards Ho Chi Minh City and the ship.

This excursion provides an introduction to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly named Saigon, a vibrant and exciting city. Explore the highlights and have time to shop.

Departing the port, head toward Central Saigon to see or visit some of its many attractions.

History Museum

Start with a visit to this outstanding museum, considered the best place to get acquainted with Vietnam's history. Housed in a building from the early 1900s, the museum displays artefacts from the Bronze Age to the early communist presence in Vietnam. Other exhibits feature Cham art, ceramics, and traditional costumes.

Leaving the museum, the bus will take you to the Notre Dame Cathedral, distinguished by its imposing twin spires. Along the way, stop for photos at the splendid Reunification Palace and the elegant Saigon City Hall. Then, switching back to the coach, drive to China Town, known locally as Cholon.

Saigon Market

Visit the large market place in central Ho Chi Minh City Ben Thanh located in the Saigon Market. A short twenty minute stroll through Ben Thanh market offers a kaleidoscope of colours and a hive of activities.

Thien Hau Temple

Next, proceed to this beautiful temple built in 1825 and dedicated to the cult of Thien Hau, Goddess of the Sea and Protector of Sailors.

Lacquer Factory

The last visit is to one of Saigon's best known establishments for an introduction to the making of the city's renowned lacquer ware. Browse through the showrooms, where a fascinating array of items tempts even the most jaded shopper.

From here, the tour returns to the port. Time permitting and if you prefer, remain in town and make your own way back to the ship at your leisure.

Discover the natural remedies and street food of Vietnam during this engaging, half-day excursion to Ho Chi Minh City.

Ho Chi Minh City and Saigon Food Street

Depart the pier for the Saigon Food Street (26-28-30 Thu Khoa Huan Street). Following a guided and narrated stroll around Saigon Food Street, walk to the Ben Thanh Market.

Tan Dinh Market, Vendors and Food Stalls

Next, head to the large market place District 3 of Ho Chi Minh City, the Tan Dinh market, which is best-known for its down-home Vietnamese food. A number of vendors and food stalls in the market's food section offer dishes freshly-made to order. Various local dishes can be purchased here, including Vietnamese pancakes (banh xeo), fresh spring rolls (goi cuon), hue cakes (banh beo) and Vietnamese noodle soup (pho).

Ngon Restaurant and Lunch

Leaving the Ben Thanh Market, re-board your coach and drive to the Ngon restaurant, which offers an extensive menu of foods gathered from northern to southern Vietnam. The concept behind the restaurant is to bring together many different street vendors under one roof. In this compact venue, a wide array of classic Vietnamese dishes from throughout the country are prepared with the flair, independence and simplicity of the impressive local street fare. A light Vietnamese lunch is served after exploring the food stalls. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.

Explore the museums and sites related to the Vietnam War and fall of Saigon during this compelling, half-day excursion to Ho Chi Minh City.

Museum of Ho Chi Minh City

Depart the pier for the short drive to the centre of Ho Chi Minh City. Once called the 'Pearl of the Orient', Ho Chi Minh City is today a bustling metropolitan hub with a sea of motorbikes. Your tour begins with a visit to a Museum of Ho Chi Minh City which was the 1^st Presidential Palace in the South of Vietnam before the Unification Palace. It has been a museum since 1999, beside the two main rooms about American, French War in Vietnam, it has a room showing the timeline about Ho Chi Minh City, and how does it developed until now. You also has a chance to discover a secret air raid shelter that located under this building.

Reunification Hall

Your next stop will be visit to the Reunification Hall which is former Presidential Palace of the South Vietnamese regime. The Saigon regime collapsed on April 30, 1975, when a North Vietnamese Army (NVA) tank crashed down the front gate of the palace. Perhaps the most interesting of all is the bunker area inside the Palace which is former telecommunication center and war room of the South army. It is really worth your visit.

War Museum

Next, re-board your coach and continue on to the War Museum. During your guided visit, explore war relics and detailed exhibits, at times shocking, about the American war in Vietnam. The museum comprises a series of themed rooms in several areas, with period military equipment placed within a walled yard. This museum is currently the most popular museum in Ho Chi Minh City, it has welcomed half of million visitors each day.

At the conclusion of your visit, re-board you coach for 20minutes drive back to the ship

Discover how coffee is intertwined with the local population, culture and history of Saigon during this fun-filled, half-day coffee excursion.

Ho Chi Minh, Pho Noodle Shop, Vietnamese-Style Breakfast

Depart the pier for the short drive to your first stop, Pho, a local noodle shop. Most Vietnamese usually begin their new day with a breakfast of noodle soup or 'bánh mì', a type of sandwich that consists of a Vietnamese baguette that is split lengthwise and filled with various savoury ingredients, along with a cup of coffee. Coffee here is not just a drink, but a social aspect of life. Morning, noon and/or night, coffee is for people of all ages and classes, and a part of Saigon's history is brewed into every cup of coffee made here.

Following your Vietnamese-style breakfast, re-board your coach and head to Café Chung Cư, also known as the 'Apartment Café'.

Apartment Café, Sitting-Plump Café, Notre Dame Cathedral, Post Office, Reunification Palace

This old apartment was formerly frequented by naval officers during the post-war period after Reunification Day in 1975, and features several little coffee shops within it. The cafe is somehow able to keep a traditional Saigonese feel to it, even though it sits in the centre of an otherwise modern part of town. After visiting the different coffee shops inside the Apartment Café, re-board your coach and drive to Café Bệt, the 'Sitting-Plump Café'. In the central park near the Notre-Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office and Reunification Palace, students, workers and even foreigners can be found with a plastic cup of this cafe's coffee in-hand. This area also offers wonderful views of some of the city's most attractive highlights.

Racquet Café, Saigon Retro Concept Café

Next, re-board your coach and drive to Café Vợt, the 'Racquet Café'. During your visit, observe how they brew their coffee in the traditional way for its unique and special taste, and enjoy their coffee on the sidewalk filled with tiny plastic stools. Your last stop is at the Saigon Retro Concept Café. Located in a small valley, this eclectically-furnished café exudes a laid-back vibe and cool, retro feel. Following a cup of coffee here, re-board your coach and commence the short drive back to the pier.

Explore Ho Chi Minh at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Ho Chi Minh City at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Ho Chi Minh City at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Ho Chi Minh at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Vietnam

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Ship: Silver Shadow

Voyage Number: 3834 (Pre-cruise)

Departure Date: 19 November 2018

Program Nights: 6 Nights

Start of Program: Hanoi

End of Program: Singapore

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Highlights:

● Discover the art and culture scene in Hanoi with a local art researcher

● Visit the B-52 memorial at Huu Tiep Lake

● Explore Hao Lo Prison with former US Army soldier Chuck Searcy

● Enjoy a culture and food tour with a gastronomic guide, savoring the delights of Vietnam

● Participate in a hands-on cooking class with Chef Rice who has appeared alongside the likes of Gordon Ramsay

● Fly by helicopter to Mai Chauand witness an unchanged way of life in the countryside

● Take part in a blessing ceremony with a village elder

● Cycle your way through the stunningly beautiful countryside

● Enjoy a yoga class in the open air with tranquil views of the rice paddies

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Day 1 - HA NOI

Arrive at Hanoi airport and meet up with chauffeur, who will shuttle you to your accommodations at the award-winning Sofitel Hotel for post-trip relaxation. Enjoy pool and other hotel offerings, and dinner of your choosing.

Day 2 - HA NOI

Start your day taking a bicycle tour around lake west. Enjoy stops at local sites, including the Golden Lotus Temple, an exquisite 13th Century structure built for Princess Tu Hoa. After lunch the tour will delve deeper into the arts, with visits to the Fine Arts Museum and to select galleries. You'll be joined by a local art researcher who will guide you through Revolutionary Era Vietnamese art and the art of the white Thai people. Dinner will be served at Phu Thanh Chuong, an architectural heritage site, and will be accompanied by a very special Water Puppet performance and making-workshop that dates back to the 10th Century.

Day 3 - HA NOI

Greet the day with a morning tour at Ba Dinh Square; the home of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. A continued day of activities include a scenic walk around Truc Bach Lake on the Youth Road, a visit to the B-52 Memorial at Huu Tiep Lake, and a stop at the Hanoi Hilton Museum. At Hao Lo Prison you'll be joined by former soldier of the US Army Mr. Chuck Searcy, who will give you an insider's perspective on the experience of being a resident at the prison. For the afternoon join a gastronomic expert on a tour of the best, hard-to-find dining destinations. Delectables will include the Hanoi delicacy Bun Cha, Bánh Cuốn, and the iconic Pho. There will be plenty of walking between tastings, with stops at the 13th Century Ngoc Sơn Temple, Hang Be market, and the Temple of Silver. End this culinary adventure by getting your hands into it with a cooking class with Chef Rice in the old French Quarter.

Day 4 - HA NOI/ MAI CHAU

Experience rural Vietnam by checking out and taking a helicopter ride to Mai Chau, about 160km from Hanoi. Explore the iconic stilt houses made with bamboo and timber, and experienced an unchanged way of life. Bicycle through a rich, verdant countryside to converse and experience the local hill-tribe villages, and learn about social history of Vietnam at the Museum of Thai Ethnic People. Enjoy lunch on in a stilted house located amidst the paddy fields. In the afternoon, venture out to explore the beautiful ethnic villages of Mai Chau, including Na Phon and Na Meo. This cultural immersion experience is finalized with the traditional performance for a good rice harvest, reigned over by a village elder.

Day 5 - MAI CHAU

Start the day with a trek to Pu Luong Nature Reserve with breathtaking scenery of terraced paddy fields, hidden valley and peaceful villages, with a Water Wheels walk and rafting on Cham River. Enjoy lunch at the restaurant at Pu Luong retreat, with views of breathtaking mountains and vibrant rice terraces. Return to Mai Chau then set off on another bicycle tour of the local valleys. Stops along the way include the beautiful ethnic villages of Mai Chau, including Poom Coong, Chieng Sai village, Cha Long and Na Tang villages. At Van village you'll visit a local home that contains more than 1,000 precious antiques, including hunting equipment, musical instruments and jewelry. Dinner will be served at the resort.

Day 6 - MAI CHAU/ HANOI

Enjoy a day of relaxation at your own leisure, with pre-breakfast Hatha yoga in the paddy fields offered, as well as pool access and general unwinding. AfEter lunch an air-conditioned coach will deliver you to Hanoi to check in at the hotel and refresh before a celebratory farewell dinner hosted at the History Museum, which will include a Ca Trù performance. The Ca Trù is an ancient genre of chamber music inscribed on the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage in need of Urgent Safeguarding in 2009, and associated with a geisha - like form of entertainment.

Day 7 - HANOI

At appointed time, you will be picked up and transferred to Noi Bai International Airport for your flight to Singapore to embark on your cruise aboard Silver Shadow.

Program Inclusions:

· Four nights at Sofitel Legend Metropole in Hanoi

· Two nights at Mai Chau Ecolodge in Mai Chau

· Entrance fees to above mentioned sightseeing.

· Meal Plan: 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners

· Transfers between airport, hotel, and pier in air-conditioned vehicles.

· Gratuities to drivers, guides, hotel staff for baggage, cyclo driver

Flight Details:

Day 4: Hanoi/ Mai Chau via Helicopter - duration approximately 01hr00

Flight durations may vary due to changes in flight schedules.

Luggage Information:

Your entire luggage will accompany you on this program.

Visa Information:

Please check with your travel professional for details regarding visa requirements for Vietnam. It is the responsibility of the guest to obtain all appropriate visas before your cruise.

Accessibility:

The sights visited on this program are not well equipped for mobility-impaired guests. Therefore we do not recommend this tour to those who may rely upon a wheelchair and who might have mobility issues.

Vaccinations:

Consult your physician for information regarding vaccinations or medications which may be appropriate for your state of health.

Please note:

All Land Programs require a minimum number of participants in order to operate as described. If this minimum number is not obtained, Silversea reserves the right to offer the program at a different rate based on private arrangements, or to cancel a specific departure.

This description is a general overview of the highlights of this program. The local Silversea representative will do everything possible to insure that all of the sites described here are visited, though the tour sequence and specific sites mentioned is subject to change. Closure of some sites due to local or national holiday observances, flight schedules, weather or other factors may affect the program, and the local operator reserves the right to substitute other sites if necessary.

Lunches and dinners (except in-flight meals) include two glasses of local beer, soft drinks or mineral water.

Gratuities to guides/drivers, meals and alcoholic drinks other than those noted in itinerary, and other personal expenses are not included in the price of this tour. This program is subject to a 100% penalty for any cancellation notices received 90 days or less prior to sailing.

All Land Adventure fares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until payment is received in full by Silversea. All Land Adventures are non-transferable and non-refundable for any reason, within 90 days of sailing and are recommended to guests 18 years or age and older. Our local operator reserves the right to substitute other sites if local situations, including holidays and weather, require. Silversea shall have no obligation or liability of any kind to guests for the business practices, acts or omissions in connection with or arising out of arrangements with independent contractors, including but not limited to airline carriers, ground-tour operators, and hotels since they are neither agents for nor employees of Silversea Cruises. Silversea's liability does not extend beyond the vessel.

Renaissance is located in downtown Ho Chi Minh City on the riverfront with sweeping views of the river. This prime location places you moments from the historic Ben Thanh Market, Tao Dan Park and much more.