Adventure to the Land of the Nine Dragons

Sunday, November 8
Touch down, weary travelers, in Vietnam’s 1000-year old capital where the tangy scent of spices emerge from shadowed alleys and ancient traditions are still practiced in the far reaches of the Old Quarter. And yet, Hanoi is bustling with modern, ambitious energy.

You’ll be met at the airport and whisked to our lakefront hotel, where Kerri awaits. We’ll gather for a cocktail at dusk and a quick briefing about delights that lie ahead. Then you are free to enjoy dinner on your own.

Lodging: Hanoi

Monday, November 9
Awaken as the sun rises over Hoan Kiem Lake and join Kerri for a nutritious breakfast because our day is replete with the stories, sights and sounds of Hanoi.  

We’ll be guided first to the Temple of Literature, founded in 1070 by an emperor who revered Confucius. It was designed as a place for contemplation and serenity and as we  wander the courtyards and pavilions, we’ll learn about the deep cultural reverence for learning. 

From there, we’ll be invited into the home of a Hanoi family who have curated a remarkable collection of instruments in tribute to Asia’s musical heritage.

When we’ve partaken of the indelible tastes of the Old Quarter, it’s on to the Museum of Hill Tribe Ethnology, as we soak in the history and customs ahead of our exploration to the highlands. We’ll see artifacts and altars, ceramics and traditional dress.

And then there may be time for shopping or a cat nap before a stroll with Kerri around the lake and a delicious dinner. 

Lodging: Hanoi

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tuesday, November 10
Rise and shine, friends, and don your most comfortable shoes for we are visiting some of the places that loom large in the lore of America’s war with Vietnam.

We’ll hear first-hand accounts of the conflict from Mr. Hong My, a former soldier, and visit the infamous hotel-turned-prison where the late Sen. John McCain was imprisoned during the war.  

- Neil Sheehan to the New York Times. Author of ‘A Bright Shining Lie.’

We’ll reflect on the journalism and literary treatments of the Vietnam War as we visit more historical sites and enjoy a late afternoon walk on the lakefront.  

And then let’s gather for a pre-dinner drink and book discussion before dinner at Ly’s Club, a gorgeous cafe set in a splendid French mansion.

Lodging: Hanoi

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Book Conversation, Dinner

Wednesday & Thursday, November 11 & 12
Catch a last glimpse, my fellow expeditioneers, of the sunrise over the lake for we are off to the verdant mountains of Mai Chau, where we’ll begin our hill tribe experience.

Breathe deeply of cool crisp air as the peace and serenity of this beautiful landscape settles over us. We’ll walk quiet forest paths and explore nature preserves and mountainside villages. We’ll spend time with hill tribe farmers and artisans. We’ll sample farm-fresh food from local markets and we’ll join an evening of music and dance. 

This is also an opportunity for walking, meditation, reading and reinvigoration after the cacophony of the city, so enjoy!

Lodging: Mai Chau

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: November 13, 14, 15
This is a lovely day for sleeping in and a leisurely breakfast for we are ever so reluctantly leaving the serenity of our mountain aerie behind in mid-afternoon.

We are bound for Vietnam’s elegant Imperial capital of Hue and there is so much to behold here!

Our days will be a wonderful and revitalizing melange of spiritual and cultural history, Perfume River cruising and fabulous cuisine, including a cooking demonstration and in a traditional family home.

Lodging: Hue

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Book Conversation, (Dinner where noted)

Monday, November 16
Today, it’s a stunning drive though the green heart of Vietnam’s countryside as we make our way toward Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is renowned for its ancient architecture and perched on the banks of the Thu Bon River, where it flows into the South China Sea.

When we arrive, it's a sunset cruise on the river and then expert recommendations for dinner on your own. 

Lodging: Hoi An

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch 

Tuesday, November 17
As the sun rises, we’ll gather for breakfast and then embark on a tour of the local market and a cooking demonstration with Trinh Diem Vy, a hotelier and entrepreneur. 

After an extravagant lunch, it's a walking tour of Petite Hoi An, where tailors expertly take your measurements and whip up dresses and suits out of sumptuous fabrics. 

Our guides will whisper their favorite Hoi An restaurants in your ear as you explore the city’s fabulous food scene.

Lodging: Hoi An

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Wednesday, November 18
This is a morning to rise a bit late, enjoy some convivial conversation over breakfast and plan a bit of last minute shopping for those souvenirs that will instantly transport you back to this marvelous adventure. We are headed for the wonders of Cambodia but not until after lunch, so plenty of time to do as you wish.

When we arrive in Siem Riep, we’ll be ushered to our hotel and you’ll have time for a stroll around town.  

Then, please join Kerri for a cool drink and a book conversation before you head out for dinner. But remember! Our Saturday begins very early as we catch the sunrise on our way to Angkor Wat.

Thursday, Friday, November 19 & 20
Our days will begin before the sun has bathed the splendors of Angkor Wat’s temples in gold and will be filled with a myriad of sensations, tastes, artistry, experiences and insight.

And our days will close with the camaraderie that comes with witnessing the wonders of the world together.

Lodging: Siem Riep

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Saturday, November 21
Rise for a refreshing breakfast and then our guides will whisk us to the airport as we head home to enjoy the Thanksgiving holidays with our families.