In part one of our series, we explored some of Vietnam’s most authentic homestays where travelers can connect deeply with
Beyond the comfort of luxury hotels and five-star resorts, staying in a local homestay offers travelers a different kind of
There's no better way to immerse yourself in local culture than to experience it directly. It is warmly welcomed by a three-generation Hanoian family residing in the city's southwest. Savoring a meal with traditional dishes and discovering Vietnam culture through conversation with the hosts in the warm atmosphere of this hospitable family promises an enriching experience. This is an excellent opportunity for those who love Vietnam, its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine.
Discover the enchanting textiles of Vietnam's ethnic minorities with a full-day workshop in Lao Chai Village. Join Black H'Mong artisans to explore hemp production, batik design, and indigo dyeing. Uncover the meanings behind H'Mong folk art symbols and enjoy a traditional H'Mong lunch. This experience includes a hike of about 1.5 hours in Muong Hoa valley, through beautiful rice terraced fields. This workshop is suitable for all ages and skill levels and offers a unique cultural immersion.
Bach Ma National Park is a nature lover's paradise, offering breathtaking views, bird-watching opportunities, and a hike through tropical forests to its peak for panoramic views. Departing from Danang or Hoi An, the journey includes the memorable Hai Van Pass and explores historical relics from the Vietnam War.
Exploring Angkor Wat is a must for anyone visiting Cambodia. Its architectural brilliance, with expansive galleries, intricate bas-reliefs, and towering spires, reflects the artistic and engineering prowess of the Khmer Empire. Angkor Wat is officially symbolizing the nation's identity and pride. We highly recommend dedicating an entire day to this magnificent temple complex, its grandeur, intricate carvings, and ionic temples.
Exploring the local life through Cambodia's famous floating villages offers a fascinating insight into rural Cambodian life on water. Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in the region, plays a crucial role in the lives of many Cambodians, providing a livelihood and sustenance for countless communities. It is home to several floating villages, with Chong Kneas Floating Village and Kampong Phluk Floating Village standing out.
Experience the magic of the sun's first golden rays as they cast a warm glow over the ancient temples, creating an enchanting moment. Get up early in the morning and embark on a journey through the vast Angkor temple complex in a traditional tuk-tuk to witness this beautiful sunrise. It's an experience not to be missed by early risers.
What could be more magnificent than witnessing the sun cast its final golden-orange rays over Cambodia's largest freshwater lake from a boat? Afterwards, enjoy a traditional Apsara show, where women in tight-fitting traditional dresses perform intricate, graceful dances that narrate classical myths and religious stories through their codified, sinuous movements. This experience will surely finish the day with lasting memories.
The Opulence Cruise, symbolizing wealth and elegance, is ready to provide an unmatched experience on the waters of the Chao Phraya River. Satiate with an international gourmet buffet and live music by professional singers. Admire the architecture and landmarks like Wat Kanlaya, Wat Arun, Wat Phra Kaew, Asiatique, and other stunning sights.
This tour visits the famous River Kwai bridge built during World War II by POWs near Kanchanaburi, 130 km west of Bangkok. Explore the Wat Cemetery, where around 9,000 allied soldiers who died building the bridge and the "Death Railway" are buried. Discover the past at the JEATH Museum, showcasing wartime photos and artifacts. The tour includes a train ride over the original Death Railway track and a delicious lunch at the disembarkation station.
Experience a traditional northern Thai dinner served on a Khantoke tray, accompanied by performances of traditional Lanna dances and music.
Suan Dok Temple, built in 1370 and the royal cemetery of the Chiang Mai Royal Family, features a gilded Chedi with Buddha relics and a renowned 16th-century Golden Buddha. Engage in interactive discussions with Thai monks to explore Buddhism and the Buddhist way of life. Experience the Meditation Retreat, which promotes peace and deep insight into life's truths.
Located in Northern Laos, this small town is known for its ancient temples, French colonial architecture, and slow-paced lifestyle. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a blend of cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, perfect for exploring local traditions and serene river cruises.
Nestled amidst stunning limestone mountains and lush greenery, Vang Vieng is famous for its outdoor adventures. From tubing and kayaking on the Nam Song River to exploring caves and hiking, Vang Vieng is an adventurer’s paradise.
One of Southeast Asia's most enigmatic archaeological sites. Shrouded in mystery, this prehistoric site has puzzled historians and archaeologists for decades, offering a glimpse into a lost civilization's secrets and inviting visitors to explore its intriguing past.
Located in the southern tip of Laos, Si Phan Don is a serene riverine archipelago on the Mekong River. It's known for its waterfalls, and the rare Irrawaddy dolphins.
Join our immersive Calligraphy Workshop and explore the art of traditional craftsmanship. Begin with a presentation on the making of Dó paper and the inspiring story of Zo Project. Dive into the world of calligraphy, learning its history, styles, cultural significance, and spiritual expressions. Get hands-on with painting tools, including handmade papers, brushes, ink, and inkstones. Experiment with freestyle writing, followed by a live modern calligraphy performance in English and Vietnamese. Conclude with a guided practice session to create your own calligraphy piece.
In collaboration with 365 Travel, Zó Project is a social enterprise committed to preserving Vietnam’s ancient Dó paper craft through sustainable innovation. Dating back to the 3rd century, this durable paper has declined due to industrialization. Zó partners with artisans, designers, and ecologists to revive it through workshops, cultural events, and contemporary products. By blending tradition with sustainability, Zó empowers artisans, safeguards cultural heritage, and promotes eco-friendly practices for future generations.
Join our Bookbinding Workshop and experience the magic of traditional bookbinding! Start with a fascinating presentation on how Dó paper is crafted and the inspiring story of the Zo Project. Explore various bookbinding tools—knives, scissors, glue, and thread—before diving into an exciting hands-on session. Watch a live demonstration of binding techniques, then unleash your creativity by stitching, folding, and assembling your own notebook. Add a personal touch with unique decorations, making it a one-of-a-kind keepsake. Wrap up with a fun Q&A, sharing stories and tips on this timeless craft. Let’s turn paper into art together!
In collaboration with 365 Travel, Zó Project is a social enterprise committed to preserving Vietnam’s ancient Dó paper craft through sustainable innovation. Dating back to the 3rd century, this durable paper has declined due to industrialization. Zó partners with artisans, designers, and ecologists to revive it through workshops, cultural events, and contemporary products. By blending tradition with sustainability, Zó empowers artisans, safeguards cultural heritage, and promotes eco-friendly practices for future generations.
Join our Pottery Workshop for a hands-on experience in traditional ceramics! Start with an introduction to the history of pottery, different clay types, and techniques. Watch a live demonstration by skilled artisans, then get your hands dirty as you shape your own piece using a pottery wheel or hand-building methods. Experiment with textures, patterns, and sculpting to create a unique design. After molding your masterpiece, learn about glazing and firing processes. Enjoy a relaxing, creative atmosphere while connecting with clay and craftsmanship. Wrap up with a Q&A session and take home a special handmade souvenir as a lasting memory!
In collaboration with 365 Travel, Gom Sen is a social enterprise dedicated to preserving Vietnamese pottery and empowering artisans, especially those with disabilities. Rooted in Bat Trang village, it seeks to sustain traditional craftsmanship and provide stable livelihoods. A pivotal 2018 encounter with disabled painters highlighted pottery’s transformative power. Despite challenges, Gom Sen creates eco-friendly ceramics, merging tradition with modernity while fostering social impact through meaningful employment and artistic expression.
Begin your journey with a tranquil cruise from Hue’s Imperial Citadel along the Perfume River to Bao Vinh Old Town, once a lively trading hub now echoing with charm and history. Continue to Tien Non Village, where you’ll cycle through the peaceful countryside to Thanh Tien Village, famous for its delicate paper flowers. Visit the house of artisan Than Van Huy, a guardian of this centuries-old craft, and learn about his creative process. Next, ride to Sinh Village, the heart of folk painting in Hue, where you’ll visit the home of artist Ky Huu Phuoc, whose works vividly capture local life and tradition. The tour concludes with a serene cruise back along the river, offering quiet reflection on a day rich with heritage, artistry, and the timeless beauty of Hue’s riverside villages.
Embark on a serene cycling pilgrimage through Hue’s sacred landscapes, beginning at the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda by the Perfume River, where ancient bells echo through pine-scented air. Ride through peaceful village paths to Huyen Khong Son Thuong, hidden in the forested hills of Cham, a Zen retreat famed for its poetic calm and spiritual seclusion. Continue to Huyen Khong Pagoda in Nham Bieu Hamlet, nestled beside the Bach Yen River, known for its harmonious blend of Theravāda tradition and lush gardens. Pedal onward to Kim Son Pagoda, a quiet treasure with traditional wooden architecture, then visit Truc Lam Pagoda, a peaceful neighborhood temple with classic Vietnamese design and a deeply contemplative atmosphere. This cycling tour nourishes the soul, inviting calm reflection at every turn.
A bicycle journey through Kim Long village offers a captivating glimpse into the grandeur of the former "Great City" (1636-1687), a period richly reflected in its cluster of significant cultural relics. Behind the evergreen hedges of secluded garden houses, you'll discover echoes of a bygone era, brought to life through the enchanting stories shared by your hosts. The nostalgic architecture, warm familial atmosphere, exquisite local delicacies, and above all, the graceful observance of Hue etiquette, create a cultural sanctuary where you can truly savor the art of Hue living. The experience deepens as you cycle along tranquil paths bordered by vibrant vegetable gardens, fragrant flowers, and serene rice paddies, each moment an invitation to profound peace. This privileged access to Hue family culture and heritage includes sharing a genuine Hue-style meal with your hosts, complete with a soothing herbal foot bath, and partaking in a traditional tea and cake tasting. Along the way, spontaneous stops at local handicraft workshops allow for authentic immersion in the daily rhythms of village life, transforming your journey into a voyage of both discovery and introspection, revealing not only the unique landscape architecture, feng shui, and philosophies of Huế, but also the profound art of living itself.
The ancient village of Thuy Bieu, a timeless symbol of transition and harmony, invites you on a five-hour exploration. A leisurely bicycle ride (up to 10km, adaptable to your preference) through verdant orchards and shady lanes, followed by a serene boat trip back along the poetic Perfume River, offers moments of pure tranquility. Beyond the well-preserved communal houses, you'll discover the aesthetic beauty of traditional wooden architecture and Feng Shui gardens, a captivating blend of royal legacy and rustic charm. Nearby, delve into the compelling history of the Nguyen Dynasty through original monuments such as the Roman Colosseum-inspired Tiger Arena, once host to dramatic duels between tigers and elephants, the unique temple-cemetery dedicated to the Kings’ loyal elephants, and the time-honored bronze casting village. Enhance your immersion with enriching hands-on experiences: prepare a home-cooked meal alongside a local family using fresh garden ingredients, indulge in a soothing herbal foot bath, savor seasonal fruits and local delicacies, and connect with the village artisans through their traditional crafts.
Note: For an alternative experience during the dry season (March-August), consider an afternoon departure at 2:00 pm, culminating in a delightful dinner. A visit to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda can also be seamlessly incorporated into your itinerary, further enriching your journey through Hue's captivating cultural tapestry.
Explore the cultural soul of Hue on a refined day tour through its most inspiring sites. Begin at the majestic Imperial City, where ancient walls and palaces echo the glory of the Nguyen Dynasty. Then visit Truc Chi Garden, where bamboo paper is transformed into luminous works of art. Continue to the peaceful An Hien Garden House, a former royal residence rich in traditional architecture and charm. Nearby, the Huong River Museum of Ancient Pottery showcases centuries of craftsmanship along Vietnam’s waterways. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, continue your journey at Lebadang Memory Space, a stunning fusion of nature, art, and architecture—where the spirit of Hue’s artistry lingers long after your visit. After that, admire modern Vietnamese creativity at the Diem Phung Thi Art Museum and the vibrant Le Be Dang Art Museum then let your artful breath slow, gazing upon the Perfume River’s gentle flow.
Visit the craft villages in the surroundings of Hue and discover the unique traditional crafts that have existed for hundreds of years in the former capital of Vietnam. Meet talented artisans to understand their work, then cycling through rural villages to get a real insight into Vietnamese local life.
Step into Hue’s wartime past with a powerful half-day historical tour tracing echoes of conflict and resilience. Begin at Tay Loc Airfield, once a strategic military site during the Vietnam War and the Tet Offensive. From there, head to Vong Canh Hill, where an old bunker offers sweeping views once used for surveillance and defense. Continue to The Nine Bunkers Historical Site, a quiet yet haunting reminder of urban warfare in the city's suburbs. Then visit the historic Dong Ba Gate and Thuong Tu Gate, both scarred by intense fighting during the 1968 Battle of Hue. From Truong Tien Bridge, begin a reflective walking segment: cross this historic span—once a front line—and imagine the divided city it once symbolized. Nearby, stop at the storied Saigon Morin Hotel, a former colonial command post and later a press base during the war. End your journey at Hue University of Education, where student voices once rose amid the shadows of war, echoing the spirit of resilience.
Situated 70 km from Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi is a legendary historical site, not only for those intrigued by Vietnam's wartime history but everyone. The tour offers a thrilling military jeep ride through the picturesque Vietnamese countryside, promising an unforgettable adventure.
Explore the lesser-known Mekong Delta of Ben Tre, known as Coconut Island. Cruise the scenic Delta, discover traditional crafts, cycle through village roads to visit local homes, savor tropical fruits, and meet a former Vietcong soldier turned rice paper artisan. Enjoy a delicious 5-course lunch, beautifully blending culture, history, and the riverine charm of the Mekong Delta.
See an authentic Hoi An like no others. Ride through rice paddies fields, get to know locals who make a living from traditional crafts and taste Vietnamese coffee.
Son My Memorial, the site of the My Lai Massacre, offers scenic views and profound insights into the Vietnam War's tragedies. The experience also includes meeting and talking with survivors from 1968, adding a powerful reflection on the war and a valuable educational experience, especially for history students.
Experience a profound journey through Phnom Penh with this tour. Visiting the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum offers a real insight into Cambodia's history and the impact of the Khmer Rouge regime. Conclude with a visit to a lively outdoor market to explore local goods and souvenirs. This tour provides a meaningful blend of historical reflection and cultural discovery.
Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam's first, offers an enriching and meaningful experience for students. Explore the wildlife rescue center that protects endangered species like critically endangered pangolins. Get hands-on with keepers, preparing food, cleaning enclosures, and creating enrichment tools.
Cambodia was once one of the most mine-affected countries in the world. This tour offers a unique opportunity to learn about humanitarian demining, including training rats to detect mines and the process of clearing them, and to witness a live demonstration of HeroRATs at work on a simulated minefield. It's a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
Visiting Chiang Mai's elephant sanctuary offers a chance to connect with rescued elephants in an ethical setting. Observe these gentle giants, participate in feeding, and learn about the sanctuary's conservation efforts. The experience promotes respect for these animals and supports their protection and rehabilitation.
Phnom Kulen, 50 kilometers from Siem Reap, is a sacred mountain revered by Hindus and Buddhists. It’s widely regarded as the birthplace of the ancient Khmer Empire. The visit offers a scenic drive, exploration of intricate carvings, and a traditional Cambodian blessing. Key sites include the Thousand Lingas and the giant reclining Buddha at Preah Ang Thom pagoda.
A unique experience and a different way to see Hanoi. Explore hidden backstreets, local homes, markets, and how locals live, work, and play. Unlike other tours, we show the city's beautiful and raw sides. Highlights include must-see landmarks. Discover the serene outskirts around West Lake and Truc Bach Lake, showcasing the harmony between city life and its peaceful surroundings. Enjoy stops at authentic eateries to savor Hanoi's best dishes, including family recipes and local specialties.
Join us for a hands-on Handmade "Dó" Paper Workshop, where you'll learn the traditional process of crafting high-quality handmade paper. Discover the raw materials, explore unique papers from ethnic villages in Northern Vietnam, and see stunning creative products. Get hands-on by making your own paper and decorating it with flowers, leaves, and plants. Enjoy a peaceful day in the fresh while immersing yourself in this artistic experience. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with nature and creativity!
In collaboration with 365 Travel, Zó Project is a social enterprise committed to preserving Vietnam’s ancient Dó paper craft through sustainable innovation. Dating back to the 3rd century, this durable paper has declined due to industrialization. Zó partners with artisans, designers, and ecologists to revive it through workshops, cultural events, and contemporary products. By blending tradition with sustainability, Zó empowers artisans, safeguards cultural heritage, and promotes eco-friendly practices for future generations.
Join our Beeswax Drawing Workshop for an immersive experience in the traditional art of batik-style resist dyeing. Begin with a warm welcome and a taste of Dao ethnic herbal tea before exploring the cultural significance and origins of beeswax drawing, a craft rooted in Southeast Asian traditions. Learn how to melt and apply natural beeswax to fabric, mastering techniques to create intricate patterns and fine details before dyeing. With guidance from skilled artisans, you’ll craft your own unique piece, blending creativity with cultural heritage. This hands-on workshop offers a meaningful connection to tradition and a beautiful handmade souvenir to take home.
In collaboration with 365 Travel, Indigo Store is dedicated to preserving Vietnam’s ethnic traditions and supporting local artisans. For 28 years, it has collaborated with experts and NGOs to restore lost craft villages, revive traditional weaving, and sustain cultural heritage. By funding festivals, training artisans, and reinvesting 50% of earnings into local communities, Indigo Store ensures that ethnic minorities can maintain their crafts, earn a livelihood, and pass down traditions for future generations.
Join our Hoi An Folding Lantern Making Class and craft your own foldable Hoi An lantern with Ha, a skilled artisan from the Reaching Out workshop. This hands-on experience allows you to transform creative ideas into a functional work of art while learning traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship. Guided by an English-speaking host and two artisans, you’ll follow step-by-step instructions to construct a unique, collapsible lantern to take home.
Every purchase or experience at Reaching Out supports skilled artisans with disabilities, providing them with opportunities for independence and meaningful work. Established in 2000, this social enterprise has grown into a renowned fair-trade business, offering authentic Vietnamese products and experiences while empowering a diverse team through craftsmanship and community integration.
The "Connecting with Herbs" experience at An Farm Hoi An offers families a fun and enriching day exploring the world of herbs. Guests enjoy organic herbal teas, tour the farm, and learn about the benefits of various herbs. Hands-on activities include harvesting, drying, and making herbal drinks like teas, detox juices, and mocktails. Participants also create home remedies and enjoy a relaxing foot bath. The experience concludes with a nourishing vegetarian meal made from farm-fresh ingredients. This immersive program promotes wellness, sustainability, and a deeper connection to nature while preserving traditional herbal knowledge.
After breakfast, let’s explore Bat Trang ceramic village, a hub of Vietnamese pottery craftsmanship. Begin your journey with a walk to Bat Trang Temple, followed by a visit to Van Chi house, where scholars who passed university exams in the past are honored. Discover the charm of the nearby centuries-old houses: one traditional, the other a fascinating blend of old and new, complete with a wrought-iron staircase imported from France and a fruit-filled courtyard. Continue to visit Lò Bàu Cổ, an ancient, traditional kiln used in Bat Trang village to produce high-quality ceramics before joining a hands-on pottery class (2 hours) at Gom Sen, a social enterprise preserving traditional pottery and supporting artisans, especially those with disabilities. Engage in shaping and decorating your ceramic piece, blending tradition with creativity. Lunch at local restaurant.
Experience a distinctive culinary at Nen Light – one of the best dining establishments in Ho Chi Minh City recently listed in the Michelin Guide 2023. Nén Light stands out with its sophisticated culinary style that tells inspiring stories through each dish, infused with the flavors and tastes of Vietnam. Championing a cuisine without boundaries, the young chef curates a tasting menu of 7 or 9 courses that tells a story. She uses mostly local ingredients in her ingenious creations and changes the menu every four months to keep it fresh. With their trademarked Sto:ry Menu concept, each experience at Nén Light is a multi-sensory journey that aims not only to satisfy the palate, but to touch the heart and provoke the mind of the diner as well.
After breakfast, meet our guide and driver for a transfer out of the city center to Van Phuc Silk Village. Your visit begins with an introduction to Vun Art's inspiring mission and the craftsmanship behind their unique silk artwork, which is made from leftover fabric collected from nearby garment workshops. A hands-on experience (60 minutes) lets you create your piece of art, guided by the unique artisans. You'll also explore their workshops, the local market, and the village's ancient temple and pagoda (outside).
As you finish the tour, you'll get a glimpse into the challenges faced by people with disabilities, their resilience, and their stories. You'll learn about their sustainable materials and how they're making a difference by reducing fabric waste and protecting the environment.
In collaboration with 365 Travel, Vun Art is a social enterprise commited to provide vocational training, meaningful work, and a sense of purpose to people with disabilities. They also celebrate Vietnamese culture by creating stunning pieces inspired by traditional folk art and the heritage of Van Phuc Silk Village.
