Fly from Hanoi to: Da Nang â 1hr. HCMC â 2hr ... Fly from Da Nang to: HCMC â 1hr and more⦠... and kick back in
Destination Training and Updates: Vietnam February 2016
Vietnam An overview
Population : 90.5 million
People : 53 ethnic minorities
Language : Vietnamese
Currency : Vietnam Dong
Time zone : GMT +7 Hours
Vietnam Kaleidoscopic and ever-changing, Vietnam is a nation on the move. While its biggest cities race into the modern age, rural towns and mountain villages maintain a magical timelessness. Along 3000 kilometers of coastline lies some of Asia’s most astounding natural scenery, but its allure lies in the fascinating juxtaposition of old and new. Discover this country of contrasts, where opposing cultural forces coexist in fascinating harmony.
Vietnam Famous for its iconic cuisine and incredible history, Vietnam continues to be one of the most fascinating countries in Southeast Asia, and a perfect destination for adventurous travelers seeking to explore the cultures and colours of Southeast Asia. From the lush mountain scenery and ethnic minority tribes in the north to the year-round tropical weather in the south, Vietnam is one destination that promises a once-ina-lifetime experience.
Vietnam Highlights • Overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay • Trekking and homestay in rural Sapa • Bustling street restaurants in Hanoi • Ancient Imperial Capital of Hue • Calm, UNESCO listed streets of Hoi An • White sand beaches in the south • Ho Chi Minh City’s fascinating history • A life lived on water in the Mekong Delta
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Northern Vietnam With stunning mountain landscape and colourful ethnic cultures, northern Vietnam is the perfect place to combine cultural experience with adventure travel. Explore the misty peaks and the historic hill station of Sapa, trek through ethnic villages nestled between towering limestone cliffs in Mai Chau, or explore rural countryside in this magical corner of Southeast Asia.
Northern Vietnam Sapa
5hrs road or overnight train
4hrs road or 45min Seaplane 4hrs road
Hà Nội
Hạ Long
Mai Châu
Fly from Hanoi to: Da Nang – 1hr HCMC – 2hr Nha Trang – 1.5hr and more…
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Central Vietnam The historic fishing port of Hoi An and the ancient city of Hue are two of the most picturesque destinations in Vietnam, boasting crumbling ancient architecture, unique cuisine and tailor-made shopping. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage town, strolling along Hoi An’s charming alleyways or relaxing on the nearby beach is the perfect way to enjoy central Vietnam’s warm and breezy year-round weather.
Central Vietnam Fly from Da Nang to: HCMC – 1hr and more…
Huế 3hr road
Đà Nẵng
45min road
Hội An
Fly from Da Nang to: HCMC – 1hr and more… 9
Southern Vietnam
Southern Beaches
Mekong Delta
The beaches of southern Vietnam are as diverse as they are beautiful, with stretches of deserted coast, hidden bays and clear warm waters. Venture beyond the beach with snorkelling and scuba diving, discover traditional fishing communities along the coast and kick back in world-class resorts. Nha Trang, Phan Thiet, Phu Quoc
As one of Vietnam’s most important areas for agriculture and trade, the Mekong Delta is one of the country’s most fascinating regions for cultural discovery and adventure. Explore the maze of canals and rivers on a converted rice barge, wander through sleepy riverside villages and discover quaint floating markets in one of the most iconic regions in Vietnam. 10
Southern Vietnam Fly from HCMC to: Hanoi – 2hr Da Nang – 1hr and more…
Fly from Nha Trang to: Hanoi – 1.5hr
4hr road
Nha Trang 6hr road
Đà Lạt
4hr road
45min flight
HCMC Châu Đốc Phu Quoc
Phan Thiết 4hr road
Cần Thơ 4hr road
7hr road or 3D cruise itinerary 11
What’s happening? Hotels, restaurants, events
Hotels
Apricot Hotel - Hanoi
Novotel – Phu Quoc
Naman Retreat – Da Nang
Hotel des Arts - HCMC 13
Restaurants
Wild Rice – Hanoi $$
Ly Club – Ho Chi Minh City $$$
Mango Mango – Hoi An $$
The Hill Station – Sapa $$ 14
What’s new? Hanoi Old Quarter Hanoi’s famous Old Quarter has recently been pedestrianised at the weekend allowing for street performers and vendors to create a bustling and exciting vibe for visitors.
An Bang, Hoi An As Cua Dai beach struggles against the elements, the hip An Bang beach is responding by opening great beach front bars and homestays for locals and tourists alike.
Hanoi West Lake The former secret of Hanoi’s expat community, the Tay Ho area is now full of stylish bars and gourmet restaurants, offering some of the best views in the city.
Craft Beer, HCMC Pasteur street brewery is making waves up and down Vietnam as their unique brew is bringing genuine craft beer to Vietnam for the first time. Visit the brewery on its namesake street in Ho Chi Minh. 15
Our Tours Local Life and Essence Tours
Local Life Tours • Experiential, interactive, half or full day tour. • SIC for up to 10 PAX. • Connects travellers with authentic Asian people & culture. • Low environmental impact. • A percentage of our revenue goes directly back into local communities. • Help preserve and share local communities’ tradition & heritage.
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Local Life: Vietnam Hanoi Street Eats With food stalls on every corner, Hanoi is famous for its street food cuisine. Set off on a whirlwind culinary adventure exploring the very best of Hanoi's famous street food and roadside eats. Meander through the narrow, chaotic streets of the Old Quarter to find some of the city's best-loved and lesserexplored culinary hubs.
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World class street food at every turn Any foodie’s dream tour Learn about food in Vietnamese culture Visit a local bia hoi and try the preservative-free Bia Hanoi.
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Local Life: Vietnam Sapa Bac Ha Market Take a trip into the mountains for an in-depth discovery of its most colourful mountain market: Bac Ha. Mingle with a host of ethnic minority locals who converge here to swap goods and stories, and discover the charm and diversity of Sapa along the way.
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Competitive price Lunch at a local Tay family’s house – very tranquil area, avoid the crowd. Convenient, easy to sell Suitable for every client Great value with market visit & local life experience 19
Local Life: Vietnam Hidden Hoi An Walking Tour Head out for a cultural journey by foot discovering the hidden gems alongside the must-see highlights in one in-depth journey. Wander sleepy alleyways and streets brimming with history to discover the secrets behind Hoi An's Chinese, Dutch, French, Japanese and Portuguese influence in the city. • • • • •
Visit the highlights of Hoi An’s ancient town Jinshang Tempe - dedicated to the goddess of the sea and protector of sailors Suitable for all clients with an interest in culture See the Japanese covered bridge Enjoy a relaxing boat trip on the Thu Bon river 20
Local Life: Vietnam Le Jarai Mekong Travel into the heart of the Mekong Delta to explore the waterways on this fullday tour from Ho Chi Minh City. See small homegrown factories perched on the river banks, meander by boat through rivers and small creeks and explore the unique charm of delta life from the deck of a beautifully restored teak rice barge.
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Visit the ‘rice bowl’ of Vietnam. Cooking demonstration on board cruise ship. Interact with local people in rural riverside workplaces Small boat allows better access to small waterways See communities whose life is dictated by the Mekong river. 21
Essence Tours • Highlight experiences with a twist • Private guided tours • See Asia’s best sights with a charming surprise and delight element • Interact with interesting locals along unique routes just off the tourist track • Discover local culture with your taste buds • Carefully selected boutique eateries and top-notch local restaurants • All of this in first class style and comfort
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Essence Tours: Vietnam Essence of Ha Long: The Bay of Descending Dragons L’Azalee’s private Cruises offer customers an opportunity to discover the unique beauty of Halong Bay, northern Vietnam’s scenic gem. With private cruises specifically designed to provide an exclusive and very individualized experience, these cruises don’t miss out on any of the highlights, from kayaking excursions to cave exploration.
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Offer two different basic itineraries, the guest and the host/captain can discuss and decide about the cruise route at the start. Guests are invited to choose their preferred menus and drinks selection prior to sailing. Full board package included. Absolute privacy during the whole trip. 2 guests have their own boat and a small crew to tend to their every need. Option for private sea plane transfer from Hanoi 23
Essence Tours: Vietnam Essence of Saigon: Past & Present Explore the highlights and encounter the hidden charm of Ho Chi Minh City on a guided, comfortable journey through Vietnam’s southern metropolis. After visits to the Central Post Office, Opera House, Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum and Ben Thanh Market, set off on an exclusive wander through the fascinating ancient alleyways of Chinatown District for some cultural surprises.
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Visit the highlights but also get a chance to see the busy streets of Saigon up close by cyclo Great food Mandarin restaurant with cooking demonstration. Learn about Vietnam’s recent and tragic history in the war remnants museum Enjoy a local fruit market and herbal medicine street 24
Who are they for? Local Life • Families and travellers looking for something different • Travellers looking for cultural experiences • People who want to connect with the destination a little more • Clients who might not want a full private guided tour Essence • Four or five star FIT clients • People used to travelling in comfort and style • Foodies looking for authentic cuisine • Travellers who want to see the highlights but in a special way 25
TMG Vietnam A leading tourism company in Vietnam
Sapa Resort & Spa Hoi An Beach Resort & Spa Phan Thiet Beach Resort & Spa
Can Tho Resort Chau Doc Hotel Nui Sam Lodge
Victoria Hotels & Resorts Set in some of the most unique destinations in Indochina, Victoria Hotels & Resorts is a rare collection of boutique properties embracing French colonial styles and local characteristics. From the pristine mountains of Sapa to the historic Hoi An Ancient Town, from the coastline backed by desert-like sand dunes in Phan Thiet to the exotic floating markets of the Mekong Delta, to finish your Journey in one of Asia's most beautiful and peaceful towns, Luang Prabang. Each property offers genuine hospitality and a lively energy that are trademarks of the real Indochina. You won't find Victoria hotels in big, noisy cities, that's not our style. We have carefully sought out Indochina's real heartlands and our properties reflect all that is fascinating and rewarding about those special places.
Hai Au Aviation Hai Au Aviation offers the first-ever and only seaplane experiences in Vietnam. At Hai Au, we believe your journey should be just as much fun as your destination. With brand new, state of the art amphibious aircrafts and unwavering commitments to safety and the highest of service standards, Hai Au Aviation’s low-altitude flights showcase the best of the region from a bird-eye view, flying our guests to exotic destinations in comfort and style.
L’azalee, Lady Hau and Le Jarai boats
Bringing it all together A truly unique journey
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Why work with us? Buffalo Tours and our partners
Why partner with us?
Hotel partnership
Competitive pricing
Unique product
Own vehicles and boats
Buffalo tours own operations
Professional reservation staff
Sales & marketing support
IT resources
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“Changing Lives through Travel”
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