2027 “Discover Vietnam Experience”

Another UNIQUE “Small-Group” Luxury Cuisine & Culture Experience

“Vietnam. It grabs you and doesn’t let you go.
Once you love it, you love it forever!”
– Anthony Bourdain

2027 “Discover Vietnam – Luxury Culinary & Culture Exploration of Vietnam’s Highlights”

DATES

12 Days / 11 Nights
Friday 12 February 2027 to Tuesday 23 February 2027

Pricing

– 4 Final Places Remaining –

**Final Booking Deadline : Monday 20 July 2026

“Discover Vietnam Experience” – Client Reviews

**Due to the limited number of seats on the internal flights in Vietnam we will be using between HCMC/Danang and Hué/Hanoi, bookings for our “Discover Vietnam Experience” should be made as early as possible to ensure that internal flights and all accommodations can be secured for you. 

To view the USD/AUD Foreign Cash Currency Exchange to be used at the time of payment, please visit the Wise International Currency Exchange rates website at https://wise.com/au/currency-converter/usd-to-aud-rate

A  Love Affair with Vietnam

One of my most magical food memories – those meals which are viscerally remembered and permanently etched in your brain – was in 1987 while Belinda & I were living in Toronto.

Always in search for trying something different, one of Belinda’s work colleagues suggested we try “Vietnamese” and recommended a  “cheap & cheerful” restaurant in Queens St East.

We were brought menus and, not knowing anything about Vietnamese food at the time, I set the menu aside and asked our server to bring on whatever dishes they thought we should try as our first introduction to Vietnamese cuisine!

And “BANG” our love affair with Vietnamese food began with all we tasted!

The lightness, freshness and textures of everything we sampled – crunchy “Nem” (netted spring rolls) and crispy “Banh Xeo” (Vietnamese Yellow Pancake) wrapped in lettuce and fresh herbs and dipped in that perfectly balanced sweet, sour, spicy and salty elixir of Vietnam’s classic Nuoc Mam Cham dipping sauce; bowls of “Bun Thit Nuong” – light, chewy rice noodles topped with fragrant Vietnamese mint, coriander, and basil; and chargrilled meats with lemongrass served sizzling before us – changed our culinary life completely, just as it had my culinary exploring hero Anthony Bourdain.

Cooking Passions Luxury “Small Group” Cuisine & Culture Journeys

Our luxury Cuisine & Culture Small Group Journeys are thoughtfully designed to make the most of your valuable time away.

With Nico & Belinda as your dedicated hosts throughout, you’re travelling with the people who created your journey—ensuring a level of care, consistency, and personal connection that larger, more impersonal tours simply can’t offer.

Every detail has been personally curated—from unique, behind-the-scenes experiences to the seamless flow of each day—so you can simply relax and enjoy.

With all logistics taken care of, your days unfold effortlessly, balancing guided discovery, rich cultural immersion, and unhurried moments to truly savour each destination. It’s travel at a pace that allows space for connection, enjoyment, and lasting memories.

Limited to a maximum of only 12 guests, each journey offers an intimate and relaxed atmosphere, where like-minded travellers come together and friendships naturally form—with hosts who genuinely know and care about your experience.

Our itineraries are designed with flexibility in mind—allowing you to engage as much or as little as you wish. With ample free time to explore, shop, unwind, and indulge, you’re free to shape your experience, with our personal recommendations always on hand.

All that’s left is to book your flights, pack your bags, and join us for a truly unforgettable journey through one of our all-time favourite destinations – Vietnam!

The Magic of Vietnam

For Anthony Bourdain, Vietnam was also incredibly special to him!

Between his “Cooks Tour”, “No Reservations” and “Parts Unknown” series he created eight different episodes that shared his love affair for Vietnam with his audiences as there was no place on earth that he enjoyed visiting more, delighted in eating its cuisine more, or felt more at home visiting!

“I love Vietnam. I love it now.
I loved it from the minute I arrived for the first time.”
– Anthony Bourdain

After our Vietnamese food “love affair” began in Toronto, our travel “love affair” with Vietnam started in 2007 when we travelled across its beautiful country to curate our  inaugural “Discover Vietnam Culinary & Culture Experience” in 2008!

Even after more than 15 years of escorting our clients and sharing our love of Vietnamese food, people and their culture with them, it still is one of our favourite destinations to experience!

Some of Anthony’s best foodie quotes and quips were about Vietnam, and it’s as if he had taken the words out of our mouths.

“Where have you been all my life!
Fellow travellers, this is what you want. This is what you need.
This is the path to true happiness and wisdom!”
– Anthony Bourdain

2027 “Discover Vietnam – Luxury Cuisine & Culture Exploration of Vietnam – HIGHLIGHTS

Join Nico & Belinda as they personally escort a Small Group of travellers (12 people maximum) to what is one of our favourite food destinations – Vietnam – where we share with you our “hand-picked” Vietnam culinary & cultural experiences, cooking classes and luxury accommodation for 12 exciting days.

Our “Discover Vietnam – Culinary & Culture Experience” will overwhelm your senses with the incredible beauty, amazing flavours and rich history of Vietnam, visiting the country from South to North including:

• Vibrant and cosmopolitan SAIGON (HO CHI MINH CITY) which has become Asia’s hippest city.

• The rich history & beauty of HANOI (“Paris of the East”)

• The stunningly beautiful 16th century ancient port town of HOI AN with it’s charming lantern lit streets.
  

• The peacefully beautiful former Imperial Capital and first world UNESCO cultural heritage site in Vietnam – HUÉ – with its complex of monuments on the Perfume River celebrating the various dynasties of Vietnam’s former emperors.

• Gourmet Cooking Class with Ms Vy & Ms Lulu – two of Vietnam’s most recognised food personalities whose Hoi An restaurants and cooking school have garnered recognition throughout Vietnam and overseas.

• Culinary experiences which explore the fresh and unique tastes & flavours of Vietnamese food, including dinner at Vietnam’s only Michelin-awarded restaurant.

• Plenty of free time for you to pursue your own Vietnamese cultural/cuisine/shopping/relaxing activities.

We’ve organised all of the delicious cuisine & culture experiences; all internal Vietnam airfares and transfers for you; most meals; and selected beautiful centrally located luxury accommodations which are all in easy walking distance to the sites and shopping of the cities and towns we will be visiting.

All you need to do is pack a bag and a sense of adventure and join us on a delicious journey through Vietnam.

Please scroll down for more Client Testimonials from our previous “Discover Vietnam” experiences.

VIETNAM – The Destination

“Take me to that special place where everything is beautiful, and nothing hurts.”
– Anthony Bourdain

Vietnam has become one of the most popular destinations for international travellers simply because it has so much to offer. It’s beauty varies from the magnificent limestone peaks in Halong Bay to the the rice paddy lined canals of the Mekong Delta.

People have finally begun to look at the country from another perspective, now that travelers and tourists from the West are being welcomed into what was once a forbidden country.

Influenced by Chinese & French culture, the Vietnamese have a strong sense of their own uniqueness and travelers are moved by the charm, hospitality and warmth that they are greeted by in the people. It may take a bit more effort and tenacity to plan an excursion into Vietnam than it would for another Southeast Asian country, but Vietnam has much to offer in terms of culture and sights.

Vietnamese food is one of contrasts and harmony, exploding with the freshness of lemongrass, mint, coriander and basil, while beautifully balanced with the use of chilli, sugar and fish sauce. Influenced by over 1000 years of the rich culinary legacies of China, India and France, Vietnamese cusisine is one of the original fusion cuisines of the world, and one which has taken the very best of these other cultures and refined it into its own unique culinary experiences.

So, whether to experience a lively ancient culture, to see beautiful countryside, indulge in one of the world’s favourite cuisines, to get your adventure fix, or to just get a bit of beachside or cosmopolitan comfort, Vietnam has it all!

“Discover Vietnam – Luxury Culinary & Culture Highlights Experience”
Inclusions

• 3 Nights Luxury Five-Star Accommodation with Club Privileges – HCMC (Saigon) – Renaissance Riverside Saigon

• 3 Nights Deluxe Four-Star Accommodation – Hoi An – Little Riverside Hoi An – Luxury Hotel & Spa

• 2 Nights Luxury Five-Star Accommodation – Hue – Azerai La Residence

• 3 Nights Luxury Five-Star Accommodation with Suite Privileges – Hanoi – Hotel de L’Opera Hanoi

• Included Meals – Breakfast daily & included Lunches or Dinners at some of our favourite Vietnamese and non-Vietnamese restaurants, as per itinerary

• Hands-On Vietnamese Cooking Experience at one of Vietnam’s most successful cooking schools  (Hoi An)

• Vietnamese Cuisine & Culture Excursions:

  • Ben Than Market Visit (Saigon)

  • Reunification Palace Tour (Saigon)

  • Cu Chi Tunnels & Saigon River Experience (Saigon)

  • Saigon Foodie XO Street Food Experience (Saigon)

  • Hoi An Market Visit

  • Hue – Imperial City and Perfume River Cruise Experience

  • Hanoi Cyclo Experience

  • Vietnam Dining Experience

• Private Airport/Hotel Transfers – Arrival (Saigon) & Departure (Hanoi)

• Two Domestic Vietnam Airlines Flights** – HCMC/Danang and Hue/Hanoi

  **Due to the limited number of seats on internal flights in Vietnam, these book out very quickly, so bookings for the “Discover Vietnam” tour should be made as early as possible to ensure that internal flights and all accommodations can be secured. Domestic flights will be booked immediately with our Vietnam Travel Agent, once your Booking Form and Deposit have been provided, to secure these places. 

• Tips & Gratuities for included meals and drivers

• Services of Full-time Group Escort

• Tour Photographer

• Pre-Trip Briefing (Perth)

2025 “Discover Vietnam – Luxury Culinary & Culture Highlights Experience”
Complete Itinerary

PRE-ARRIVAL – Thursday 11 February 2027 – Saigon (HCMC)

For those wishing to arrive one or two days prior to the official start date of the tour tomorrow, so that you can start our exploration of Vietnam relaxed & rested, we are able to arrange for any additional nights accommodation and your private Airport/Hotel Transfer upon your arrival into Ho Chi Minh City to our hotel – the 5-Star “Renaissance Riverside Saigon Hotel”

Nico & Belinda will be arriving into Ho Chi Minh City on Wednesday 10 February 2027 in preparation for everyone’s arrival into Vietnam.

FLIGHT SUGGESTIONS – We find that the most reliable and quickest way to arrive & depart Vietnam (from Perth) is with Singapore Airlines, with a short stopover in Singapore. The current price for a return Economy Class ticket starts from about $AUD740.00 per person. 

• • • • SQ224 – Depart Perth 06:40am  | Arrive Singapore 11:55am
        SQ184 – Depart Singapore 13:50pm  | Arrive Ho Chi Minh City 15:00pm

      • SQ191 – Depart Hanoi 12:45pm  | Arrive Singapore 17:20pm
        SQ215 – Depart Singapore 16:55pm  | Arrive Perth 23:55pm

Day 1 – Friday 12 February 2027 – Saigon (HCMC) – ARRIVAL

– Your arrival in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). You will be met at the airport by a Hotel Representative for your Airport/Hotel Transfer to the 5-Star “Renaissance Riverside Saigon Hotel” upon your arrival.

OUR ACCOMMODATION : Renaissance Riverside Saigon Hotel

One of only a few riverside hotels in Saigon, the Renaissance Riverside Saigon Hotel sits in an enviable position in District 1’s central financial and commercial hub, walking distance to many of Saigon’s famous sites. We have selected Deluxe R Club Riverview* Rooms during our stay, with each room providing its own sensational panoramic views of the mighty Saigon River. After a busy day, pamper yourself at the hotel spa, take a dip in the rooftop pool or the hotel’s rooftop bar, where craft cocktails and views of Ho Chi Minh City skyline await.

 * Privileges for Club Floor Guests

• Access to the Renaissance exclusive Club Lounge (18th) with panoramic Saigon River views

• Exclusive check-in / check-out services on 18th floor Club Lounge

• Complimentary buffet breakfast at the Club Lounge or Riverside Café (Ground Floor)

• Complimentary evening snacks, cocktails  and honor bar including premium spirits from 17.30-19.30

• Complimentary tea, coffee and refreshments throughout the day

• Complimentary local phone calls

• Computer workstations with complimentary internet access at the Club Lounge, subject to availability

19:00pm – Welcome Group Dinner

ACCOMMODATION – Renaissance Riverside Saigon Hotel
(Included Meals – D)

Day 2 – Saturday 13 February 2027 – Saigon (HCMC) – XO FOODIE EXPERIENCE

am – Breakfast at your leisure.

“So back in Vietnam, one of my favourite places on earth and all of the things I need for happiness. A little plastic stool, check. Tiny little plastic table, check. Something delicious in a bowl, check!”
– Anthony Bourdain

10:00am – Join Nico for a walking tour to some of Saigon’s historic landmarks including its famous French Colonial designed Notre Dame Cathedral and historic Post Office. We will then visit the Reunification Palace, one of Saigon’s most iconic and historic buildings. Continue on to visit the War Remnants Museum, or for those that may like to do some relaxing, head back to the hotel for a session poolside or book in for a massage at the hotel spa.

Remainder of the afternoon at your leisure.

17:30pm to 19:00pm – Meet for in the Club Room for complimentary pre-dinner drinks and appetisers with full private bar facilities.

19:00pm – XO Foodie Experience

Belinda & I experienced our first XO Foodie Tour on one of our previous visits to Saigon and it was amazing fun & informative.

Don’t take it from us though! Here is what Anthony Bourdain said of experiencing the joys of a scooter ride in his favourite foodie country –

“One of the great joys of life is riding a scooter through Vietnam, to be part of this mysterious, thrilling, beautiful choreography. Thousands upon thousands of people — families, friends, lovers — each an individual story glimpsed for a second or two in passing, sliding alongside, pouring like a torrent through the city. A flowing, gorgeous thing; as you ride you not only see, you hear, a hundred intimate moments in miniature. You smell wonderful unnameable things cooking issuing from storefronts and food-stalls; you hear the sounds of beeping, laughing, announcements from speakers, the put-put and roar of a million tiny engines.”
– Anthony Bourdain

Voted one of the top food tours in the world, the “XO Foodie” will introduce us to street food from throughout Vietnam—served from stalls that cater to locals—and take us zipping around many of the city’s districts, not just the touristy ones, on the back of a female-driven motorbike.

Along the way, we will sample the most amazing dishes that Vietnam has to offer as we taste our way through cuisine from North Vietnam, Hue and The South in one amazing street food city: Saigon!

On the XO Foodie Tour we will be taken to the most popular street stalls and hidden alleyways in the city and show you where the locals really love to eat! So save your appetite, delight your palate and let’s fill our tummy with delicious and authentic Vietnamese food!

This world-renowned Ho Chi Minh City Food Tour focuses on street food dishes that most people outside of Vietnam have never had a chance to experience. Unlike most other Vietnam food tours, we won’t be served Pho, Spring Rolls, Vietnamese Pancakes, or Banh Mi Sandwiches. We also won’t eat dog meat, bugs, organs, raw food or anything too weird. (Unless you’d like to, as I did above…really does taste like chicken!). 

“This is the way so many great meals in my life have been enjoyed: sitting in the street, eating something out of a bowl that I’m not exactly sure what it is, scooters going by. It’s so delicious,”
– Anthony Bourdain

Please find XO Foodie’s FAQ’s here for more details. If you don’t feel like joining in on tonight’s event, we would be pleased to suggest some excellent nearby restaurants for you to enjoy a wonderful dinner at your leisure.

9:30pm – Return to hotel

ACCOMMODATION – Renaissance Riverside Saigon Hotel

(Included Meals – B,D)

Day 3 – Sunday 14 February 2027 – Saigon (HCMC) – CU CHI TUNNELS & SAIGON RIVER EXPERIENCE

am – Breakfast at your leisure

7:00am – Cu Chi Tunnels* via Saigon River Express – This morning we will get up close to life on the mighty Saigon River as we have arranged our own Private Speedboat Cruise to visit one of Southern Vietnam’s most important tourist attractions – the famous Cu Chi Tunnels. We will head off early, so that we can beat the crowds and tour groups that arrive later in the morning.

While most tourists do the long  60km each way trek in heavy traffic to reach Cu Chi from Saigon, we’ll do in much quicker and more enjoyably as we travel along the Saigon River while witnessing the daily life that occurs along the river. Upon arrival at the Cu Chi Tunnels our Private Guide will escort us around this amazing attraction.

Cu Chi Tunnels
Built during the American/Vietnam War, at its height, the tunnel system stretched over 250km from Saigon to the Cambodian border and was three levels deep. This fascinating network of tunnels were specially constructed to accommodated living quarters, field hospitals, schools and command centres. The tunnels have been widened for the benefit of tourists, and only those wishing to feel what it must have been like for life underground can have a go…there are lots of other sights to see on the surface.

For those that are interested, try your hand at firing a war-era rifle or machine gun at the Cu Chi Gun range or for a more calming experience, watch how Vietnamese rice paper wrappers are traditionally made.

13:00pm – Return to hotel. Afternoon at your leisure to shop, have a massage or some quiet time poolside.

17:30pm to 19:30pm – Meet for in the Club Room for complimentary pre-dinner drinks and appetisers with full private bar facilities.

20:00pm -Dinner at a HCMC dining institution to sample a range of some of Vietnam’s most beloved and  classic dishes.

ACCOMMODATION – Renaissance Riverside Saigon Hotel

(Included Meals – B,L,D)

Day 4 – Monday 15 February 2027 – HOI AN and VIETNAMESE COOKING CLASS  

Breakfast at your leisure.

8:00am – Check out from hotel. Group Transfer to Tan San Nhat airport to board flight to Danang.

11:00am – Flight departure with Vietnam Airlines to Danang in Central Vietnam. (***Due to the limited number of seats on internal flights in Vietnam, these book out very quickly, so bookings for the “Discover Vietnam” tour should be made as early as possible to ensure that internal flights and all accommodations can be secured. Domestic flights will be booked immediately with our Vietnam Travel Agent, once your Booking Form and Deposit have been provided, to secure these places.)

12:30pm – Arrival in Danang and Group Transfer to Hoi An.

HOI AN
Hoi An was originally a Cham port town, but has been influenced down the centuries by a myriad. of traders from various cultures. Hoi An is so special that by tacit agreement among all combatants, it wasn’t attacked during the Vietnam War. That neutrality left the town, a trading port dating from the 15th century, in a state of preservation worthy enough to gain it UNESCO World Heritage status.

The gracious buildings and streets show a variety of architectural influences, especially from China and Japan; the town prospered in the 17th and 18th centuries, when merchants from as far afield as India and Holland set up emporiums. But business literally dried up in the 19th century, when silting clogged the Thu Bon River. The port shifted to Da Nang, 20 miles up the coast, and Hoi An became a near-forgotten backwater. With a medieval cityscape untouched by Vietnam’s go-go economy, it easily doubled for 1950s Cholon, Saigon’s Chinese quarter, in the film adaptation of Graham Greene’s classic novel, The Quiet American.

Its tourist-oriented old quarter is laid-back and pedestrian-friendly, with a ban on cars, touts, and street peddlers. The tranquility and charm of Hoi An, coupled with its low tiled houses, makes it one of the most delightful places to visit in Vietnam. It is a constant favourite of travellers. Highlights of the town include visiting historic houses of prominent traders; the 400 year old Japanese Covered Bridge, and various Chinese assembly halls, as well as experience the tastes of Hoi An and the markets and tailors.

14:00pm – Arrive Hoi An and transfer to our hotel – Little Riverside Hoi An – Luxury Hotel & Spa . Check in to your river view Little River Suite room.

Hoi An is the charming ancient port town of central Vietnam and one of the most delightful places to visit in Vietnam, famous for it’s lantern festivals, talented tailors and laid back riverside lifestyle.

OUR ACCOMMODATION : Little Riverside Hoi An – Luxury Hotel & Spa
Ideally situated on the banks of the Thu Bon River in the heart of the ancient town, Little Riverside – A Luxury Hotel & Spa, beckons with peaceful sunrises and a refreshing breeze. The traditional architecture and design is distinctly Hoianese, exuding charming warmth that will make a lasting impression. The hotel’s intimacy and lovely riverside location is just a short 5 minute walk to Hoi An’s bustling centre.

14:30pm – Join Nico as he shares with you his favourite sights of Hoi An so you can become familiar with the layout of this irresistibly beautiful town, and to call into one of Nico’s (and Anthony’s) favourite Banh Mi stalls for one of the best Vietnamese Rolls in Hoi An. (And maybe even get a photo with the famous Ms Phuong).

“A passerby told me that this is the best Banh Mi in town and I can well believe it. Look at this thing! Look at that goodness. That’s a symphony in a sandwich.
The baguette alone is something of a miracle. How do they stay so crunchy, crispy and fresh on the outside. So airy, so perfect on the inside.”
– Anthony Bourdain

17:00pm  – “Hands-on “Gourmet Cooking Class” at Ms Vy’s Cooking School. Ms Vy is one of Hoi An’s most successful restauranteurs with four fantastic Hoi An restaurants now under her charge. Ms Vy and her teaching partner, Ms Lulu, are also the original teaching chefs of Hoi An and their cooking classes are incredibly informative, where we not only learn how to make some classic Vietnamese dishes, but also learn how to recognise the fresh produce, herbs and spices that are used in Vietnam cooking and medicinal purposes.

Remainder of the evening at your leisure. Enjoy an after dinner walk around the charming, lantern-lit streets of Hoi An including a visit to the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge.

ACCOMMODATION –Little Riverside Hoi An – Luxury Hotel & Spa
(Included Meals – B,D)

Day 5 – Tuesday 16 February 2027 – HOI AN (FREE DAY)

am – Start the day like a local and join Nico at one of his favourite family-run Pho Stalls for breakfast, or enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel.

“A good bowl of pho will always make me happy!”
– Anthony Bourdain

9:00am – Visit to Hoi An’s Central Market with Nico

Afternoon at your leisure – For those interested, join Nico for a leisurely bike ride through Hoi An’s surrounding rice field countryside as we make our way to the beach for some refreshments at one of the many seaside restaurants & bars at nearby Cua Dai Beach.

Remainder of the afternoon at your leisure – Take in some relaxing time by the Rooftop Swimming Pool or at one of the many local spas, or wander Hoi An’s many shops for some retail therapy!

Evening at your leisure – Hoi An by night is a beautiful and relaxed place, with streets closed off to cars & motorcycles and becoming a “pedestrian friendly” area to explore on foot. Venture into the night markets or find a favourite place for a quiet drink or some dinner. Nico can offer some suggestions, or alternatively, for those that would like to enjoy dinner together, Nico will arrange a table at one of his favourite restaurants.

ACCOMMODATION –Little Riverside Hoi An – Luxury Hotel & Spa
(Included Meals – B)

Day 6 – Wednesday 17 February 2027 – HOI AN – FREE DAY

am – Breakfast at your leisure

FREE DAY – Today is another opportunity for you to enjoy Hoi An at your leisure.

We are able to suggest some places to visit should you wish to check out some of the villages and sites close by to Hoi An.

Hoi An Discovery Suggestions

• HISTORY – Early morning private tour to the UNESCO World Heritage Listed My Son Sanctuary, a cluster of abandoned and partially ruined Hindu temples constructed between the 4th and 14th century by the kings of the Champa civilisation.

• CULTURE – Stroll through the ancient quarter meet the colourful locals and see the 16th century Japanese Covered Bride, the Pottery Museum; the Tan Ky old house, the Cantonese congregation, the silk street of Hoi An and the Chinese-style temples and pagodas.

• SHOPPING – Check out some of the many clothing, jewellery, lantern and shoe shops in town or visit the riverside market.

• RELAX – Book a massage at the hotel’s spa or one of the many spas around town for a special treatment.

Remainder of the day & evening at your leisure for our final day and night in Hoi An.

In the evening, take in the tranquil charm of Hoi An’s lantern filled streets or visit the lively Hoi An night market. We can decide where to eat together as a group this evening, or don’t hesitate in venturing out for a quiet dinner at your leisure.

ACCOMMODATION –Little Riverside Hoi An – Luxury Hotel & Spa
(Included Meals – B)

Day 7 – Thursday 18 February 2026 – HUÉ – “Vietnam’s Ancient Imperial Capital”

am – Breakfast at your leisure

9:00am – Group departure for our private transfer by road to Vietnam’s ancient Imperial Capital – HUÉ. The 130 kilometre (3 hour) journey will allow you to take in the stunning views of the coastline and surrounding mountains of Central Vietnam.

10:30am – Brief refreshment stop at the scenic Hai Van Pass where we will stop for a drink and take in its breathtaking scenery. The picturesque Hai Van Pass in Vietnam is recognized as one of the world’s top ten most beautiful coastal roads. This pass is not only connected with numerous historical events, but it is also a wonderful place for many travelers due to its spectacular and artistic beauty that captivates everyone’s heart. The poetic name of the Hai Van Mountain Pass is based on the idea of the mist rising from the Eastern Sea and clinging to the mountaintops.

12:00pm – Arrival in Vietnam’s ancient Imperial Capital – Huế. As Check In at our hotel is not until 14:00pm, we will drop our luggage off and visit one of Nico’s favourite local restaurants to sample some of Hue’s specialty dishes.

OUR ACCOMMODATION – Azerai La Residence

Azerai La Residence is set on a two and a half-hectare site with 200 metres of frontage on the fabled Perfume River. The colonial mansion at the heart of the resort was built in the 1930s as part of the residence of the French Resident Superieure. The mansion’s distinctive façade, its long horizonal lines and nautical flourishes are hallmark of the streamline moderne school of art deco architecture. Its two complementary wings, built in 2005, are contemporary in design yet echo elements of art deco aesthetics and embrace an expansive tropical garden and salt-water swimming pool.

15:00pm – 18:00pm – Private Guided Tour of Huế’s UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE Imperial Capital & Citadel, home to one of Vietnam’s most important emperor dynasties – Nguyen. We will then enjoy a leisurely cruise down Hue’s famous Perfume River to visit the Thiên Mụ Temple. Its iconic seven-story Phước Duyên pagoda is regarded as the unofficial symbol of the city of Huế.

Remainder of the evening at your leisure. Enjoy a meal in the hotel’s  We can decide where to eat together as a group this evening, or don’t hesitate in eating in-house or venturing out for a quiet dinner at your leisure.

ACCOMMODATION: Azerai La Residence
(Included Meals – B)

Day 8 – Friday 19 February 2027 – HUÉ – “Vietnam’s Ancient Imperial Capital”

am – Breakfast at your leisure.

10:00am – This morning we will travel back in time by visiting the architectural and cultural significance of Hué’s Nguyen Dynasty’s Emperors tombs. As the capital city of the Nguyen Dynasty, Hué Imperial City was known as the kingdom of royal Nguyen kings at that time. For 143 years from 1802, before the kings passed away, they had decided to prepare for themselves unique tombs with special architecture.

Although there were 13 emperors under the Nguyen Dynasty, only 7 tombs were built. These Hué tombs served as the final resting places for the emperors and their ancestors. More than just somber burial places, these tombs in Hue also showcase scenic beauty with exquisite carvings in harmony with nature. Recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, these tombs play a significant role in preserving Vietnam’s historical traces, cultural heritage, and unique architectural styles.

Afternoon at your leisure. Enjoy some quite time poolside at our hotel or go for a walk along Hue’s Perfume River to explore some of the city.

19:00pm – Group Dinner to sample some of Hue’s famous contributions to Vietnamese Cuisine.

HUE CUISINE

Owing to its imperial background, the food of Hue is often referred to as “Royal Cuisine.”  The term, “A meal fit for a king,” applies, quite literally.

And it all started in the bewitchingly named: Forbidden Purple City. The emperor, his family and all the citizenry, dwelled in the fortified, Forbidden Purple City. Ruling the throne, the emperor chose the finest chefs of Viet Nam to come and create the most dazzling dishes they could conjure. Utilizing local recipes and ingredients, as well as their own regional flavours, these chefs came up with dishes that pleased the palate but were visually stunning.

It is said that over half of all Vietnamese dishes originated in Huế. Emperor Tu Duc in particular is credited for Huế’s emergence as a culinary powerhouse. Tu Duc was a man of exquisite taste and a demanding diner. Legend says he required a different meal every day for a year — a tough ask for even the most innovative kitchen team. His legacy, though, is some of the best food in Vietnam, ranging from the city’s imperial cuisine — a succession of dainty dishes served at lavish multi-course banquets — to creations that made it out of the royal court to achieve mass popularity with locals.

ACCOMMODATION: Azerai La Residence
(Included Meals – B, D)

Day 9 – Saturday 20 February 2027 – HANOI – “The Paris of the East” 

5:40am – Early departure and checkout from hotel for our transfer to Hue Airport for our 07:45am departure flight to Hanoi. Private Airport Transfer to our hotel upon our arrival in Hanoi.

HANOI

As the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi has a relaxing atmosphere and features the charming “Old Quarter” and French-colonial architecture. With its leafy boulevards, towering mansions, green parks and lakes, Hanoi is a very picturesque city. Its intriguing blend of Parisian grace and Asian pace makes it a fantastic destination to wander around and soak up the atmosphere.

13:00pm – Check in to our accommodation at Hanoi’s 5-Star Hotel – Hotel de L’Opera Hanoi and your L’Opera Deluxe Suite* for our stay in Hanoi.

 * Privileges for L’Opera Suite Guests

• • • Complimentary tea & coffee throughout the day at La Fee Verte

    • Complimentary evening Free-Flow drinks (wine & beer) with Complimentary Tapas from 5pm to 7pm  at La Fee Verte

    • Complimentary unlimited local calls (mobile phone numbers excluded)

    • Complimentary morning newspaper, selection of magazines

    • Luxury range of L’Occitane bathroom amenities

– Remainder of the afternoon at your leisure. Join Nico for a familiarisation walk of Hanoi’s charming Old Quarter and beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake. For those that are interested in attending a performance at Hanoi’s famous Water Puppet Theatre, we will visit the theatre to purchase tickets to attend during our stay.

17:00pm to 19:00pm – Meet in Hotel de L’Opera’s La Fee Verte Lobby Bar for complimentary evening drinks (wine & beer) with complimentary Tapas.

19:00pm – This evening, after all of the wonderful Vietnamese fare that we’ve been enjoying, we thought we would go for a change of flavour with dinner at one of our favourite non-Vietnamese restaurants, a short walk from our hotel.

ACCOMMODATION – Hotel de L’Opera Hanoi

(Included Meals – B, D)

Day 10 – Sunday 21 February 2027 – HANOI

am – Breakfast at the hotel

9am – Group meet in the hotel lobby for our departure via cyclo to experience the sights & of Hanoi’s Old Quarter at a relaxed leisurely pace while sitting back and taking in daily life of Hanoi’s town centre.

10am – Visit the magnificent Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and adjacent Presidential Palace.

• Presidential Palace Historical Site Complex – The Presidential Palace was built between 1900 and 1906 as the official residence of the various Governor-Generals of French Indochina. It was designed in a European style by a French architect named Auguste Henri Vildieu.

  The Presidential Palace is a part of the Presidential Palace Historical Site complex, where President Ho Chi Minh lived and worked between December 19, 1954 and September 2, 1969. Recognized as a special national relic site, the complex is likened to a museum featuring the life of President Ho.

  During his time as the President of North Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh decided not to reside in the Presidential Palace, but in a modest stilt house purpose built for him on the grounds of the palace. The house is called the Ho Chi Minh’s Residence or Ho Chi Minh Stilt House.

Remainder of the day at your leisure.

Hanoi Discovery Suggestions:

• CULTURE – Visit the grounds of the 1000-year old Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university; visit Hoa Lo Prison (“Hanoi Hilton”), or visit the informative Vietnamese Women’s Museum that commemorates the hard work and dedication of Vietnamese women who sacrificed their lives to their families and to their countrymen, a reminder of why Vietnam is where it is today and where it’s going.

• SHOPPING – Visit the bustling 13th century Old Quarter markets and its 36 Streets for its many streets lined with vendors and shops. Millions of motorbikes, thousands of products, and countless number of street food options, Hanoi Old Quarter is a top priority when visiting the capital city. Tightly tucked in small alleys and tall but elongated skinny buildings, the 36 streets of Hanoi represent thousands of years old of history and legacy left by the Vietnamese empires that once ruled this fertile land.

• VIETNAMESE WATER PUPPETS – Later this afternoon is a good opportunity to book into one of the Water Puppet performances at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. Tickets should be purchased at least the day before.

• RELAX – Go for a stroll around the peaceful Hoan Kiem Lake and see the local Hanoians jogging, doing tai chi and playing badminton. 

• EATING/DRINKING– Visit one of Hanoi’s French-Colonial villa cafe/restaurants or pull up one of those tiny plastic stools and enjoy some local bia hoa – “Vietnamese pub culture” at the many cheap & cheerful roadside bars.

17:00pm to 19:00pm – Meet in Hotel de L’Opera’s La Fee Verte Lobby Bar for complimentary beverages as part of your Suite benefits.

pm – Evening at your leisure. Nico can provide you with some restaurant options should you wish to dine independently or for those that might like to dine together, we can decide on some great restaurant options.

ACCOMMODATION – Hotel de L’Opera Hanoi

(Included Meals – B, D)

Day 11 – Monday 22 February 2027 – HANOI – FINAL DAY

am – Breakfast at your leisure

Today is our final full day together in Vietnam and a free day to complete your exploration of Hanoi with any last minute sightseeing, shopping or pampering that you would like.

17:00pm to 19:00pm – Meet in Hotel de L’Opera’s La Fee Verte Lobby Bar for complimentary evening Free-Flow drinks (wine & beer) with complimentary Tapas.

19:00pm – Group Farewell Dinner.

ACCOMMODATION – Hotel de L’Opera Hanoi

(Included Meals – B, D)

Day 12 – Tuesday 23 February 2027 – HANOI – DEPARTURE DAY

am – Breakfast at your leisure before check out.

We will say our farewells to the group before your departure from HANOI for home or your next chosen destination** (Please see details below regarding Halong Bay).

We have arranged for your Private Hotel Airport Transfer to suit your flight departure time. As the Hanoi Airport is about a 45 minute drive away from the hotel, please try to arrange any departure flights to depart in the late morning or early afternoon, as opposed to any early morning flights.

“I’ve been all over Vietnam. A place I feel a special connection to. My first love. A place I remain besotted with, fascinated by.”
– Anthony Bourdain

HOW TO BOOK YOUR REQUESTED PLACES

If you are able to join us on our special 2027 “Discover Vietnam – Luxury Culinary & Culture Highlight’s of Vietnam Experience”, please contact us via email urbanprovider@icloud.com or +61 402 154 358 to secure your places and request a Booking Form.

Booking Deposit: An $AUD2500 per person non-refundable BOOKING DEPOSIT is required to hold a booking for the tour, at the time of your reservation. We are able to refund your Booking Deposit (less any applicable airline cancellation charges) should a replacement be found for any cancelled places.

Booking Deposits are used to secure Vietnam Airline domestic flight tickets, accommodations and tour services deposits at the time of your request for places.

Booking Deadline: Tuesday 30 June 2026 – Due to the limited number of seats on internal flights in Vietnam, these book out very quickly, so bookings for our “Discover Vietnam Experience” should be made as early as possible to ensure that internal flights and all accommodations can be secured. Domestic flights will be booked immediately with our Vietnam Travel Agent, once your Booking Form and Deposit have been provided, to secure these places. 

Final Payment: Final Payment in full is required at least 90 days prior to departure (November 12th 2026). Payment can be made at any time before the final due date, if you prefer.

Final Payment will be converted from $USD to $AUD based on the prevailing Foreign Cash Currency Exchange rate at the time of payment. To view the Foreign Cash Currency Exchange to be used at the time of payment, please visit the Wise International Currency Exchange rates website at https://wise.com/au/currency-converter/usd-to-aud-rate

International Flight Arrangements

Should you require assistance with arranging your own international flights, Globetrotter Travel would be happy to assist in booking your international flights, travel insurance and any pre-tour and post-tour requirements. Please contact Lori Burns of Globetrotter directly on 08 9442 0164 or email  lifestyle@globetrotter.com.au  website  https://globetrotterlife.com.au/

We look forward to hosting you on this very special Vietnam experience!! If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate in contacting us.

The following is INCLUDED in the price:

• 3 Nights Luxury Five-Star Accommodation with Club Privileges – HCMC (Saigon) – Renaissance Riverside Saigon

• 3 Nights Deluxe Four-Star Accommodation – Hoi An – Little Riverside Hoi An – Luxury Hotel & Spa

• 2 Nights Luxury Five-Star Accommodation – Hue – Azerai La Residence

• 3 Nights Luxury Five-Star Accommodation with Suite Privileges – Hanoi – Hotel de L’Opera Hanoi

• Private Airport Arrival Pick Up (HCMC) and Private Airport Departure Drop Off (Hanoi)

• 2 x Domestic Vietnam Airlines airfares** – Ho Chi Minh City to Danang / Hué to Hanoi
  **Due to the limited number of seats (both Business & Economy) on internal flights in Vietnam, these book out very quickly, so bookings for the “Discover Vietnam” tour should be made as early as possible to ensure that internal flights and all accommodations can be secured. Domestic flights will be booked immediately with our Vietnam Travel Agent, once your Booking Form and Deposit has been provided, to secure these places.

• Hands-On Gourmet Vietnamese Cooking Classes – Hoi An

• Included Cuisine & Culture excursions, as per itinerary

• Full Buffet Breakfast Daily

• Included Meals as per itinerary

• Cu Chi Tunnel Tour & Saigon River Boat Cruise

• Tips and Gratuities for included meals and drivers

• All Land Transfers including two domestic Vietnam Airlines flights (HCMC/Danang and Hué/Hanoi)

• Full-Time Group Escorts & Tour Photographer

• Pre-Trip Briefing (Perth) or Virtual On-Line Briefing

The following is NOT INCLUDED in the price:

• International Airfares on your preferred airline & route. Please contact your preferred carrier or travel agent to arrange your most convenient flights to Vietnam. Nico & Belinda can advise of the flights that they will travel on, if you prefer)

• Travel Insurance (Compulsory)

• Vietnam Visa costs ~ ~ $AUD50 per person. We will provide you with details on how to apply.

• Alcoholic & Non-alcoholic beverages for included meals.

• Optional suggested tours & activities.

• Non included local taxi fares.

We look forward to hosting you on this very special Vietnam experience! If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate in contacting us.

Buon viaggio,
Nico & Belinda Moretti
Urban Provider / Cooking Passions Cooking School
267 Vincent Street, LEEDERVILLE WA 6007 AUSTRALIA
www.urbanprovider.com.au

What clients are saying!

Cooking Passions Small Group “Discover Vietnam Cuisine & Culture Experience”
Traveller Reviews

Sincere thanks to Nico and Belinda for providing such outstanding planning and guidance for our recent Tour of Vietnam.

The preparation prior to travelling was excellent, with a thorough tour guide outline and also a phone link up prior to our departure, being on the east coast we felt that we were totally informed every step of the way for our trip of a life time.

Our visit to Vietnam was outstanding, every day was planned extremely well with consideration of free time, evening group dinners were such joy with Nico’s guidance but we all had opportunity to select from the menu each evening.  Nico provided brilliant support for the total tour, always with a big smile and with enthusiasm. 

We greatly appreciated the opportunity to visit the local villages and enjoy traditional Vietnamese Pho for breakfast. The standard of the accommodation was first class and thoroughly enjoyed each and every venue we visited. Hoi An was a very special place, just so traditional and pretty. Loved the volume of traffic and people in the big cities and we became very good at crossing the roads.

Our two Vietnamese cooking classes were brilliant, and we learnt so much, came home and already began to utilise our newly acquired Vietnamese cooking skills, our family are delighted.

The whole tour was such joy, with so many things to experience, such variety with dining, tours, cruises, visits to local markets and villages. As this being our first group tour, we give Nico and Belinda our highest recommendation.

This tour was outstanding value for money.

Sincere thanks to you both, for such a relaxed and enjoyable experience.

Kind regards…Lyn and Rob, Beerwah QLD.

An amazing trip around Vietnam tasting our way from bottom to top, with three fabulous cooking classes along the way. Nico and Belinda are wonderful hosts whose experience and knowledge of this country make the trip all the more enjoyable. Nico goes the extra mile to ensure everyone has a great trip. Another very memorable holiday – (our fourth with Urban Provider). Absolutely recommended *****  …Denise

Hi Belinda and Nico, Thank you so much for a really wonderful holiday. We weren’t sure how we’d go being part of a group tour, but the whole experience far surpassed our expectations in every way. That is in no small part due to the fact that the trip was so well planned and everything seemed so effortless, but we know what goes on behind the scenes to create this illusion!! Our next task now is to look for another tour so that we can join you again for another memorable experience…Shauna 

HI Nico and Belinda, Thanks so much to you both for such a wonderful time in Vietnam. It was such a memorable time in so many ways, no doubt due to very careful planning, insight and experience on both your parts. Your care of everyone was so evident in everything you both do. You are so right about the group – what a fantastic and diverse group of people. It all clicked so well. Thanks also for your amazing photos – they capture so many moments candidly and bring back the things we did so vividly…Lots of love,Steph

Nico & Belinda, I’m lost for words to say. A simple ‘thank you’ must suffice for one of the most magical Asian experiences. The fact that we all seemed to drop out of our urbane worlds for what, at the end, seemed like a blink of an eye, was a testament to your abilities to do what you do. The chance to share Vietnam with such a wonderful group of people was the icing on the cake…Ric and Jill

Hey Nico & Belinda, It was a perfect holiday, great mix of organised activities and free time, couldn’t have asked for a better time! …Court & Jess

Hi Nico & Belinda, Thank you both so much for hosting an amazing trip. It was indeed a great bunch of people and it was a pleasure to be in the company of such a great welcoming bunch. I had a blast & wouldn’t change a thing. I loved all the places we visited, tours and cooking classes and all your knowledge of places we went & all your stories that were shared. Take care guys & stay safe…Jules

Dear Belinda, dear Nico, Thank you so much for this wonderful trip. I enjoyed it very much and the combination of cooking and sightseeing is really a wonderful combination…Best regards, Manuela

Hi Nico & Belinda, Once again many thanks for your great cooking and culture tour of Vietnam. The areas we visited certainly provided a valuable insight to the country and it’s rich and tragic history…Cheers, John & Max

**Halong Bay

For those of our travellers that are interested in continuing on to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay, you are most welcome to add this on at the end of our tour once we finish in Hanoi. Nico would be happy to suggest some Halong Bay Cruise companies that will arrange for your return transfers to Halong Bay to embark on an overnight cruise of the region.

We are able to arrange for any additional nights accommodation at our Hanoi hotel upon your return from your Halong Bay cruise, before you fly out the next day.