Fly overnight to Hanoi and on arrival, after fast-tracking through the airport, check in at the Sofitel Legend Metropole for a three-night stay.

Get to know the real Hanoi today via a vintage jeep tour. Visit the highlights of Vietnam’s capital, including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the thousand-year-old Tran Quoc Temple, the Temple of Literature, and the bustling Old Quarter. Then, step off the tourist route and explore local markets, backstreets and alleyways to see where the people of Hanoi live, work and play. Stop for a lunch of Vietnamese specialities.

In the evening, discover the street food of Hanoi on a walking tour through the Old Quarter. With your expert guide, sample northern Vietnam's food culture as you navigate the maze of streets leading to Hoan Kiem Lake and a hidden cafe.

The following day is at leisure to explore the bustling city.

Depart to the coast and the famous Halong Bay. Board the traditionally styled and luxurious Ylang Cruise for a two-night sailing to Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay. This two-night sailing reaches quieter parts of the bay, providing peaceful surroundings each evening. Enjoy the luxury of the boat, where each cabin includes a private balcony and full glass doors. Daily à la carte dining includes quality Vietnamese cuisine, and there’s even a spa and jacuzzi pool.

Shore visits include cycling to a local village, walking in Cat Ba Island National Park, and sea kayaking. There’s also plenty of time to relax and take in the scenery.

Disembark the boat and transfer to Hanoi airport for a short flight to Hue. The ancient imperial city remains a little off the main tourist hub and has a vibrant art, food, and cultural scene. Stay at Azerai La Residence Hotel for two nights on the bank of the Perfume River.

On day two in Hue, tour the Imperial Citadel with your local guide and visit the tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty. Enjoy an easy bike ride along the riverbank, and take a boat trip past stilt houses and small villages.

Drive along the coast over the Hai Van Pass towards Vietnam's ancient jewel, Hoi An. Stay for three nights at the Four Seasons Nam Hai Resort, located right on the beach.

You'll have plenty of time to relax on the coast, enjoy the resort's refined surroundings, and explore Hoi An. Discover the local cuisine, and watch the world go by in the boutique cafes of the perfectly preserved old town.

An excursion to the countryside around Hoi An is included, where you can experience rural life in Vietnam and try your hand at cooking the national dish, pho.

Fly south to the steamy and exotic Mekong Delta. Immerse yourself in luxury for two nights at the Azerai Can Tho, uniquely situated on an island in the river.

Spend a few days exploring the Mekong Delta, where daily life unfolds on the great river. Enjoy a boat trip past small plantations and fertile farms, leading you to an ancient Khmer village.

Journey to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), one of Asia's booming cities, where skyscrapers contrast with mazy streets, bustling markets, and historic squares. Stay at the Park Hyatt for three nights in the heart of the city.

Experience dramatic recent history with a visit to the Independence Palace. Travel by river to the Cu Chi Tunnels, stopping for a traditional Vietnamese riverside lunch. Explore the city like a local on a vintage Vespa, with a guided tour through the French colonial district, Chinatown, and the historic and modern centre.

Conclude with a free day to explore the city at your own pace, with its many restaurants, bars, and lively cultural scene.

Transfer to the airport for your return flight. Perhaps add a few days in Cambodia to see Angkor Wat, or spend some time on the coast in Vietnam, Thailand, or beyond.