If you’re dreaming of a day immersed in natural beauty and authentic experiences, here’s a guide to exploring the best of Cao Bang — from where to go, to what to eat, and the adventures that await. Let’s go!

I. Where to Go in Cao Bang

1. Ban Gioc Waterfall – A Natural Marvel

Your journey to Cao Bang begins with a visit to Ban Gioc Waterfall, one of Southeast Asia’s most stunning natural wonders. Nestled on the Vietnam-China border, this thundering cascade is a sight to behold. Picture towering sheets of water crashing down from the heights, with the mist rising to meet a backdrop of limestone cliffs and lush greenery.

Take a boat ride to feel the spray on your face, or simply sit back and let the serenity of this magical place sink in. Whether you’re a photographer or just someone seeking peace, Ban Gioc will steal your breath away.

2. Nguom Ngao Cave – A Journey Below the Earth

Not far from the waterfall lies Nguom Ngao Cave, a massive limestone wonderland that stretches for miles underground. Step inside and you’ll find yourself in a world of fascinating rock formations, with towering stalactites and stalagmites that have taken thousands of years to form. The cave feels otherworldly, with natural “sculptures” illuminated by soft lighting, creating an atmosphere that’s both eerie and enchanting. It’s a subterranean adventure you won’t want to miss!

3. Pac Bo Historical Site – A Step Into Vietnam’s Past

For those with a passion for history, the Pac Bo Historical Site offers a unique glimpse into Vietnam’s revolutionary past. This is where Ho Chi Minh lived and strategized upon returning to Vietnam in the 1940s. Stroll along the tranquil Lenin Stream, explore the modest cave where he stayed, and reflect on the important moments that took place in this peaceful yet pivotal spot.

4. Thang Hen Lake – A Hidden Mountain Gem

For a dose of tranquility, head to Thang Hen Lake, a pristine mountain lake hidden among the hills. Its emerald waters mirror the surrounding forests and cliffs, creating a perfect escape into nature. Whether you choose to take a peaceful boat ride or simply relax by the water’s edge, Thang Hen is a place where time seems to slow down.

II. What to Eat in Cao Bang

A trip to Cao Bang isn’t complete without indulging in its unique local cuisine. The flavors here are as bold and exciting as the landscapes, offering a true taste of northern Vietnam.

1. Banh Cuon Cao Bang – A Local Delight

Start your culinary journey with Banh Cuon Cao Bang, a must-try dish that reflects the simplicity and freshness of Vietnamese cooking. These soft, steamed rice rolls are filled with minced pork and wood ear mushrooms, but what truly sets them apart is the dipping sauce — a warm, savory broth that adds depth to every bite. Light and flavorful, it’s the perfect way to fuel your adventures.

2. Grilled Mountain Pork – A Smoky Treat

For a heartier meal, try grilled mountain pork, a local favorite. Marinated with fragrant herbs and spices, the pork is grilled over an open fire, giving it a smoky, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Served alongside sticky rice and fresh herbs, it’s a feast for both your taste buds and your senses.

3. Sticky Rice with Ant Eggs

Feeling adventurous? Step outside your comfort zone and sample sticky rice with ant eggs, a seasonal dish that’s surprisingly delicate in flavor. The eggs add a subtle crunch and nutty taste to the sticky rice, creating a dish that’s unique to this region. It’s not something you’ll find every day, so be sure to give it a try if you’re visiting between March and May.

4. Thang Co

End your culinary exploration with Thang Co, a hearty soup traditionally made by the H’mong people. Filled with a mix of meats and simmered in a rich broth with spices, it’s a dish that warms you from the inside out — perfect after a day spent exploring Cao Bang’s cool, mountainous terrain.

III. Exciting Activities in Cao Bang

1. Trekking and Hiking

Cao Bang’s rugged terrain makes it a great destination for trekking and hiking enthusiasts. There are several trails that take you through remote villages, terraced rice fields, and untouched forests. A popular trek is to the summit of Phja Oac Mountain, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

2. Exploring Ethnic Villages

The region is home to many ethnic minority groups, including the Tay, Nung, and H’mong people. Visiting their villages offers a unique opportunity to experience their traditional way of life. Phuc Sen Village is particularly known for its blacksmithing skills, and you can watch local artisans at work or even try your hand at crafting something yourself.

3. Kayaking on Quay Son River

If you’re a water sports enthusiast, consider kayaking on the Quay Son River, which flows from China into Vietnam, passing by the Ban Gioc Waterfall. The river’s calm waters and stunning backdrop make it ideal for a relaxing kayaking trip.

4. Cycling Through the Countryside

Renting a bicycle and cycling through Cao Bang’s countryside is a fantastic way to explore the area at your own pace. The roads wind through scenic rice paddies, small villages, and limestone mountains, allowing you to stop whenever something catches your eye.

IV. Travel Tips for Cao Bang

• Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Cao Bang is from September to November, when the weather is cool, and the landscape is at its most vibrant. Spring is also a great time for blooming flowers and lush green scenery.
• Getting There: Cao Bang is about 5-6 hours from Hanoi by bus or car. For the most complete and perfect experience, you should consider booking a full package tour with travel companies. Lux Travel DMC is an excellent choice as the company specializes in crafting luxury tours and designing customized itineraries tailored to each client’s needs
• Cultural Etiquette: When visiting ethnic villages, be respectful of local customs. Always ask for permission before taking photos and be mindful of your attire, dressing modestly out of respect for local traditions.

Conclusion

Cao Bang is a treasure trove of natural wonders, rich history, and mouthwatering cuisine. Make sure to add Cao Bang to your travel bucket list for an authentic and enriching Vietnamese experience!

Whenever you’re ready for the perfect trip to witness the majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall and experience the delightful local cuisine, contact Lux Travel DMC right away! An adventure of exploration awaits you in Cao Bang – one of the most stunning destinations in Northern Vietnam.

<p>The post Cao Bang Travel Guide: Where to Go, What to Eat, and Exciting Activities first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.</p>

What Makes Pho Noodles Authentic?

Pho noodles are more than just a dish; they are a symbol of Vietnam’s rich culinary heritage. Originating in the early 20th century, Pho (pronounced ‘fuh’) has become a global sensation, loved for its aromatic broth, tender beef or chicken, and silky rice noodles.

Authentic pho noodles are more than just a meal, it’s an experience. A truly authentic bowl should have a rich, clear broth simmered for hours with a blend of aromatic spices like star anise, cinnamon, and cloves.

The noodles should be soft yet chewy, and the meat, whether it’s tender beef or succulent chicken, should be cooked to perfection. Fresh herbs like cilantro, Thai basil, and bean sprouts are essential for adding a burst of freshness to each spoonful.

Where to Find Authentic Pho Noodles: Top Destinations

1. Hanoi – The Birthplace of Pho

Pho Thin: Located in the heart of Hanoi, Pho Thin is a legendary spot where you can taste Pho as it was originally intended. The broth here is clear and aromatic, simmered for hours with beef bones, star anise, and cinnamon, creating a rich and flavorful experience.

Pho Bat Dan: Another iconic location in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Pho Bat Dan is known for its long lines of locals eagerly waiting for a bowl. This no-frills eatery offers a traditional Pho experience with no modern twists – just pure, authentic flavor.

2. Ho Chi Minh City – Southern Comfort

Pho Hoa Pasteur: In bustling Ho Chi Minh City, Pho Hoa Pasteur has been serving Pho since the 1960s. This spot is famous for its southern-style Pho, which has a slightly sweeter broth and is accompanied by a generous plate of herbs, lime, and bean sprouts.
Pho Le: Located in District 5, Pho Le is another must-visit for Pho enthusiasts. The broth here is rich and full-bodied, a testament to the Southern style of cooking that incorporates more seasoning and spices.

3. Da Nang – Pho by the Sea

Pho 29: While Da Nang is known for its seafood, it also offers some fantastic Pho options. Pho 29 serves a delightful bowl of Pho with a unique twist – a touch of seafood flavor that complements the traditional beef broth. This blend of flavors makes it a standout in the coastal city.

Pho Bac 63: Located near the Han River, Pho Bac 63 offers a more traditional take on Pho, staying true to its northern roots despite being in central Vietnam. The broth here is clear and slightly less seasoned, allowing the freshness of the ingredients to shine.

4. Hoi An – A Fusion of Traditions

Pho Lien: Hoi An is a melting pot of culinary traditions, and Pho Lien is where these flavors come together beautifully. The Pho here combines the best of northern and southern styles, with a broth that is both flavorful and aromatic, accompanied by a diverse range of herbs and spices.

Pho Xua: For a more intimate dining experience, Pho Xua offers a cozy atmosphere with a focus on authenticity. The Pho noodles here are made with love, using time-honored techniques to produce a bowl that is both comforting and satisfying.

5. Hue – The Royal Experience

Pho Sai Gon: In the ancient city of Hue, Pho Sai Gon stands out for its central Vietnamese take on Pho. The broth here has a hint of spiciness, reflecting the bolder flavors of the region, and is often served with a variety of meats, including beef and pork.

Dong Ba Market Stalls: For a truly local experience, visit the stalls at Dong Ba Market. Here, you’ll find vendors serving Pho that captures the essence of Hue – flavorful, spicy, and deeply satisfying.

Tips for Finding Authentic Pho Noodles

• Follow the locals: In addition to famous Pho brands, bustling street stalls and small family-run eateries often serve the most authentic Pho noodles.
• Look for fresh ingredients: Authentic pho shops display fresh herbs and vegetables.
• Observe the broth: A good pho broth should be clear, not cloudy, with a layer of fat glistening on top.
• Time your visit: Many pho shops open early and close once they run out of broth, typically around lunchtime.
• Embrace the simplicity: The best pho noodles often come from humble establishments focusing solely on perfecting this one dish.

Exploring Vietnam through its Pho noodles is a culinary journey like no other. Each region offers its own unique take on this beloved dish, reflecting the local culture and flavors. From the traditional simplicity of Hanoi’s Pho to the rich, aromatic bowls in Ho Chi Minh City, and the coastal twists in Da Nang and Hoi An, every bowl tells a story.

For international travelers, finding authentic Pho noodles is not just about tasting the dish but also about connecting with the rich history and tradition that each bowl represents. So, pack your bags and prepare your taste buds – the adventure of a lifetime awaits in the form of a steaming bowl of Pho noodles.

Have you ever tried Pho? Contact Lux Travel DMC if you’re craving a steaming bowl of Pho!

<p>The post Where to Find Authentic Pho Noodles? first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.</p>

This time, typically from late September to early October, transforms the terraced fields into a vibrant landscape of golden rice paddies. The charm of Hoàng Su Phì lies not just in its breathtaking scenery, but also in its cultural richness and unique experiences that offer a deeper connection to Vietnam’s agricultural heritage.

Here are some tips from Lux Travel DMC to help you make the most of your trip to Hoàng Su Phì during this magical season.

1. Plan Your Visit During the Peak Harvest Time

The rice harvest season in Hoàng Su Phì generally begins around the end of September and can last until mid-October. Timing your visit is crucial if you want to witness the golden terraced fields at their peak. For a complete experience, aim to arrive during the full harvest, when the fields are at their most vibrant. Late September to early October is often considered the best time to visit, as this is when the rice is fully ripened, creating an awe-inspiring sea of gold.

2. Stay with a Local Homestay

For a truly immersive experience, consider staying in a local homestay. Many ethnic minority groups, such as the Dao and H’mong people, reside in Hoàng Su Phì. Staying with a local family will give you insights into their daily lives, culture, and traditions. You’ll also have the opportunity to try home-cooked meals featuring local ingredients, including dishes made with freshly harvested rice. Popular homestays are found in villages such as Bản Phùng, Bản Luốc, and Thông Nguyên.

Recommended Homestays:

• Homestay Bản Phùng: Offers stunning views of the rice terraces and is known for its authentic local food.
• Homestay Thông Nguyên: Located near the heart of the rice fields, perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.

3. Trek Through the Rice Terraces

Hoàng Su Phì is a paradise for trekking enthusiasts. The terraced fields, carved into the steep hillsides, offer some of the most picturesque trekking routes in northern Vietnam. Trekking allows you to explore the rice paddies up close and experience the hard work of the farmers during harvest time. The trails pass through remote villages, where you can interact with local communities and learn about their farming methods.

Recommended Trekking Routes:

• Bản Luốc to Bản Phùng: This is one of the most scenic routes, offering panoramic views of the terraced fields.
• Nậm Hồng Village: Known for its stunning views of golden rice terraces and lush green valleys.

4. Capture the most beautiful landscapes of Hoàng Su Phì during the rice harvest season

The rice terraces of Hoàng Su Phì are a photographer’s dream. The golden hues of the ripened rice set against the dramatic backdrop of misty mountains and clear blue skies create a visual masterpiece. To capture the best photographs, head to some of the high vantage points like Chiêu Lầu Thi or Bản Phùng village. Early morning or late afternoon is the best time for photography, as the soft lighting during these hours enhances the warm colors of the landscape.

Photography Tips:

• Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the terraces.
• Use a drone for aerial shots to showcase the scale and beauty of the rice paddies.

5. Participate in the Rice Harvest

If you’re looking for a hands-on experience, consider joining the locals in harvesting the rice. Many families welcome tourists to help with the harvest, offering a unique opportunity to engage with traditional farming techniques that have been passed down for generations.

You’ll get to wear the traditional farming gear and learn how to cut, thresh, and bundle the rice stalks. This activity not only provides an authentic cultural experience but also allows you to understand the effort and care that goes into every grain of rice.

6. Explore the Cultural Heritage

Hoàng Su Phì is home to various ethnic minority groups, each with its own unique customs, clothing, and traditions. Visiting during the rice harvest season allows you to experience some of their most significant cultural practices. Many villages hold festivals to celebrate the harvest, showcasing traditional dances, music, and food. Be sure to visit local markets, where you can find handmade textiles, jewelry, and other crafts created by the skilled hands of the local people.

Must-Visit Cultural Spots:

• Bản Phùng Village: Famous for its Dao ethnic group and vibrant cultural traditions.
• Nậm Ty Market: A bustling market where you can buy local produce and traditional crafts.

7. Savor Local Cuisine

The rice harvest season also means it’s the best time to sample dishes made from freshly harvested rice. The locals of Hoàng Su Phì take pride in their cuisine, and you can enjoy everything from sticky rice to rice wine, all made from the fresh crop. Try “cơm lam”, a traditional dish of rice cooked in bamboo tubes, or “thắng cố”, a specialty stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices. Pair these dishes with locally brewed rice wine for an authentic culinary experience.

8. Hire a Local Guide

For a deeper understanding of Hoàng Su Phì, consider hiring a local guide. Not only can they show you the hidden gems and lesser-known trekking routes, but they can also provide valuable insights into the cultural and historical significance of the region. A local guide can help you communicate with the ethnic communities, ensuring that you make the most out of your experience.

9. Respect Local Traditions

While visiting Hoàng Su Phì, it’s essential to be respectful of local customs and traditions. The ethnic minority groups here have a deep connection to their land and culture, so always ask for permission before entering their homes or taking photographs. Wearing modest clothing and being mindful of their way of life will ensure that your visit is both respectful and rewarding.

10. Pack for the Weather

Weather in Hoàng Su Phì can be unpredictable, especially in the mountainous areas. While the days are generally warm, mornings and evenings can be chilly. Make sure to pack layered clothing, a rain jacket, and comfortable trekking shoes. Since you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors, don’t forget sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

Discovering Hoàng Su Phì during the rice harvest season is like stepping into a vibrant tapestry of Vietnam’s natural splendor and rich cultural heritage. Picture yourself amidst shimmering golden terraces and embraced by the warmth of local communities. This hidden gem in northern Vietnam offers a treasure trove of unforgettable moments. With a bit of planning and a spirit of adventure, your journey here promises to be a truly exceptional experience.

Here are some great tips from Lux Travel DMC for your journey. Plan your exploration of Hoàng Su Phì with us during this most beautiful season!

<p>The post 10 Must-Know Tips for the Best Hoàng Su Phì Rice Harvest Experience first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.</p>

The floating season, a unique phenomenon in the Mekong Delta, offers a truly unforgettable experience for visitors who appreciate the beauty of nature and the tranquility of rural life. During the floating season, the delta transforms into a mesmerizing landscape, with rivers overflowing and lush rice paddies stretching as far as the eye can see. This guide will provide you with insights into sustainable travel practices and eco-friendly activities, ensuring that your exploration of the Mekong Delta leaves a minimal environmental footprint while maximizing your enjoyment.

I. Understanding the Floating Season in The Mekong Delta Vietnam

The floating season in The Mekong Delta, Vietnam is a natural event that occurs when the Mekong River swells, flooding the lowlands and turning them into a vast network of rivers and canals, making it a haven for aquatic life and offering a different kind of travel experience.

This is when the region truly comes to life. You’ll see bustling floating markets, serene flooded forests, and lush green fields, all reflected in the calm waters. It’s a time when the local way of life, deeply connected to the water, is on full display.

The floating season in the Mekong Delta Vietnam usually starts from the 7th lunar month to the 10th lunar month each year (approximately from September to November in the Gregorian calendar).

II. Must-Visit Destinations During the Floating Season

1. Cai Rang Floating Market

Start your adventure at the Cai Rang Floating Market in the floating season, one of the most famous markets in The Mekong Delta Vietnam. Located in Can Tho, this market is at its liveliest early in the morning. Boats brimming with fresh fruits, vegetables, and steaming bowls of noodle soup create a colorful, chaotic scene.

You can rent a boat to start your adventure, with the most popular route being from Ninh Kieu Wharf to Can Tho Bridge, through the fruit orchards, the coconut candy workshop, and the traditional noodle factory, which takes about 4 hours. These are eco-friendly experiences! The best time to visit Cai Rang Floating Market is around 5-6 AM, and enjoying a delicious bowl of pho there is truly an amazing experience!

Cai Rang Floating Market in Can Tho has been listed by Rough Guide (UK) as one of the top 10 most impressive markets in the world, with its unique feature being the “vividly colorful tropical boats” selling goods. Visiting the market will give you deeper insight into the life of the people living on the water and the rich tradition of river trade in the Mekong Delta Vietnam.

2. Tra Su Cajuput Forest

If you’re a nature lover, don’t miss Tra Su Cajuput Forest in An Giang Province. The tranquility of the floating season makes this the perfect place for sustainable experiences.

Locals will take you deep into the cajeput forest by boat. As you drift along, you’ll see birds perched on tree trunks and vibrant lotus flowers in full bloom. Feel free to ask the boatman to pause so you can soak in the tranquil surroundings and capture the beauty of nature.

3. Chau Doc

Chau Doc, near the Cambodian border, is a cultural melting pot known for its spiritual sites and scenic views. During the floating season, the Vinh Te Canal becomes particularly picturesque. Take a trip up Sam Mountain for a breathtaking view of the flooded plains—it’s a sight you won’t forget.

When you visit Chau Doc, you can explore the vibrant Floating Village, drift along by boat during the flood season, and then stop by Chau Doc Market to pick up souvenirs. This destination offers rich local experiences and a close connection with nature.

4. Tan Lap Floating Village

In Long An Province, the Tan Lap Floating Village turns into a little island paradise during the floating season. You can explore by boat, weaving through mangrove forests and enjoying the tranquil surroundings. It’s a hidden gem that offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle.

Tan Lap offers visitors sustainable, nature-friendly activities. Remember to limit the use of plastic bottles and protect this beautiful aquatic environment.

5. Dong Thap’s Lotus Fields

For a splash of color, head to Dong Thap’s famous lotus fields. When the waters rise, these fields come alive with blooming lotus flowers, creating a stunning pink and green landscape. You can take a boat ride through the fields and even sample lotus-based treats—it’s a feast for the eyes and the taste buds!

III. Unique Experiences to Try in The Mekong Delta Vietnam

1. Boat Tours and Cruises

The best way to explore The Mekong Delta Vietnam during the floating season is by boat. Whether you choose a simple rowboat or a more comfortable cruise, you’ll get up close to the Delta’s natural beauty and daily life. Many tours include stops at floating markets, traditional villages, and scenic temples, make smart choices by selecting eco-tours to help protect the local ecosystem!

2. Fishing with the Locals

Fishing is more than just a pastime in The Mekong Delta Vietnam—it’s a way of life. During the floating season, join local fishermen and try your hand at traditional fishing methods. Not only is it fun, but you’ll also gain insight into the local culture and maybe even catch your dinner!

3. Visiting Traditional Craft Villages

The Mekong Delta, Vietnam is home to many craft villages where locals make everything from rice paper to coconut candy. Visiting these villages during the floating season adds an extra layer of charm, as the surrounding landscapes are lush and green. It’s a great way to learn about traditional crafts and support local artisans.

Each craft village is a treasure trove of ancient culture in the Mekong Delta Vietnam. Renowned for their hospitality, don’t hesitate to connect with the locals to learn more about these unique cultural traditions —it’s also a great way to support sustainable tourism.

4. Cycling Through the Countryside

This is a green experience! While parts of The Mekong Delta Vietnam are submerged during the floating season, there are still plenty of areas where you can cycle. Pedal along elevated roads and enjoy views of the flooded fields, local homes, and distant mountains. It’s a refreshing way to take in the scenery.

5. Sampling Seasonal Delicacies

The floating season brings a bounty of fresh ingredients to The Mekong Delta Vietnam, and you can taste them in local dishes. Try a steaming hotpot made with freshly caught fish, or enjoy grilled snakehead fish, a local specialty. Don’t forget to visit riverside markets and eateries to sample these seasonal treats.

III. Tips for Visiting The Mekong Delta, Vietnam During the Floating Season

1. Best Time to Visit

The floating season runs from September to November, but October is usually the best time to go. The water levels are high, and the weather is still pleasant, making it ideal for exploring.

2. Where to Stay

Can Tho is the largest city in The Mekong Delta Vietnam, and offers a wide range of accommodations. However, for a more authentic experience, consider staying in a homestay in one of the smaller villages. This allows you to experience local life up close and enjoy the warm hospitality of the Delta’s residents.

3. What to Pack

When packing for The Mekong Delta Vietnam during the floating season, think light and waterproof. Bring clothing that dries quickly, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and waterproof shoes. A good camera or phone with a waterproof case is also a must for capturing all the stunning sights.

4. Respect Local Customs

The people of The Mekong Delta Vietnam are incredibly welcoming, but it’s important to respect their customs. Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples, and always ask for permission before taking photos of people. A little politeness goes a long way in making your visit more enjoyable.

5. Getting Around

Navigating The Mekong Delta Vietnam during the floating season can be tricky, so it’s best to join a guided tour or hire a local guide. They know the area well and can help you safely explore the best spots without missing out on anything.

Conclusion

Visiting The Mekong Delta Vietnam during the floating season is like stepping into another world. The water, the culture, the vibrant life—it’s all part of what makes this region so special.

Through this guide, Lux Travel DMC provides you with all the essential information to plan an unforgettable trip. So, pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to explore the Mekong Delta Vietnam, at the most magical time of the year.

Contact Lux Travel DMC to help you create the perfect journey!

<p>The post Floating Season in The Mekong Delta Vietnam – A Unique and Sustainable Travel Guide first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.</p>

I. Pros and cons of opting for a tour company in Vietnam

Opting for a tour company means that you’re opting for a fully packaged tour. So we are going to go through the advantage and disadvantage of this, starting with the good ones.

• No need to spend your precious time planning everything
• Having access to normally overcrowded sites without much hassle
• Receiving guidance from a local guide
• Being able to budget easier
• Sometimes, tours are the only method to visit a destination
• Opportunity to make acquaintances or social interactions with fellow people of the tour
• No need to negotiate pricing, which is quite an issue for first-timers here in Vietnam
• Stay out of possible harms while having safety in numbers
• The problem of language is solved

Though the benefits are obvious, it also comes with certain disadvantages. Best advice is to consider both sides of the matter in order to make the right decision.

• Can sometimes get costlier than travel independently
• Having a pre-set itinerary, which means it can sometimes get latter than usual
• You don’t get much time alone
• Sometimes you are rushed to remain on schedule

II. What you should know before choosing the perfect tour for you

1. The pricing and value of tours, as well as the possible extra cost

Pricing is, and always will be, a matter to put into perspective. It should be the first thing you will be looking at while choosing a tour company or specifically, a tour. Tour companies make profits through various methods, they may either nickel-and-dime you, or will try to make the most of your money to provide you what’s best. Just make sure to find a company that is transparent with their prices and fees, and watch out for “additional fees” that may arise during the tour like transport, park or entrance fees, tips… Some companies will try to omit small, or insignificant fees to make the pricing a lot more appealing. But small things add up, and you might have to pay more than its value. Also, if possible, try to avoid “single supplement” which is a fee you have to pay in order to get your own room. Sounds great, but doesn’t work out well for solo travelers. So if you are traveling alone, keep an eye on companies that charge extra money for traveling solo and avoid them if possible. A smart way to check for additional fees is to ask: What is not included in the price?

Speaking of value, it is another factor to be considered along with the price. Things like included meals, local guides, activities, … are worth to pay some extra, as long as they are transparent. As said above, a lot of cheaper tours usually comes with hidden additional fees. You would need to take everything into account, and decide whether or not it’s worth it.  Try to aim for the most competitive price, not the lowest.

2. Where are you going to stay during the tour?

The first and probably one of the most important factor for a great holiday is accommodation. Usually, a fully packaged tour would have accommodation prepared for you. This somewhat depends on the luck of the draw. A good travel company will give you exactly like they have offered, while some will put you in places less than what they have advertised. In Vietnam, this is somewhat common in mid-range tour companies. They explain themselves using different reasons: out of rooms, not having information updated in time, … So this is where you will need experience of prior travelers or acquaintances, combine with close inspection of the places you are going to stay, using travel forums and sites like Tripadvisor, Trivago, … comes in handy. Another thing to note is that some tours will require you to be in different places to stay during the trip. If you are unsatisfied with the accommodation provided, contact the company and try to sort things out.

3. Tour guides, what they do and what do they have to offer

Since you are going to a totally different country or even continent, there will be quite a number of issues regarding culture, language, … and to sort that problem out, you will need a local tour guide. A tour guide provides information regarding the features and history of the place which you are going to visit, will also explain what you are seeing and answer your questions as best as they could in your language. They can either make or break your holiday.

Nowadays a vast majority of tour guides are born-and-bred locals and have clear objective knowledge of the area. Having a local guide brings two main advantages. Right off the bat, you will receive first-hand knowledge through a perspective of a native inhabitant, which can be a lot different than what you have read on the Internet. Secondly, being a native speaker means that they will help you get rid of the language barrier. Thirdly, you will be putting money into locals’ pockets and help to make more job opportunities for them. In Vietnam, a local tour guide is exceptionally important because of the country’s rich history and its cultural values. Some details of certain places given by tour guides may even shock you due to how different they are from records in your home country.

Some companies offer one or two guides to do the job or different guides for different locations. Having more than one guide can become confusing at certain times, due to the information given to you being not in uniform. But the perks are obvious. Having more than one guide means you’ll be receiving more information from a different perspective. You can’t expect a guide to know everything, but two can definitely be.

There is also a connection between a tour company’s reputation and the tour guides’ quality. Sometimes, a company with a high profile tends to attract better personnel, while on the other hand, a company’s reputation is built on the experience of its guide. You should take this into account in order to find the best company for you.

Before choosing, make sure that the guides who are going to be provided to you know the destination throughout and speak both yours and the native language fluently. This is done by looking at reviews dedicated to touring guides on travel forums.

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4. Services, safety records, and their importance

To understand what services do a tour company provides, you should first understand what it does. A tour company, or tour operator, works with hotels, transport providers, attractions … and packages various components of an offered trip such as transportation, meals, guides, … in order to arrange and operate your vacation. That means it provides you with information, experience, … or help to create a tailor-made itinerary to suit your needs.  Though certain companies can get creative with what they have to offer, so it would be a good idea to do some research and compare the services of different companies.

Safety records is an issue that most people don’t pay much attention to but certainly is as important as other elements. So remember to check that the company that you are opting for has been authorized or licensed by local governments where they are registered. This is essential to avoid scams. Also, make sure that they have fulfilled all the safety requirements. There have been reported incidents related to clients’ safety in Vietnam, and in most cases, they did not follow safety procedures.

5. Itinerary and schedule of the tour

Before choosing a tour company, or more specifically a tour, think about the type of holiday you want to have. Do you want a relaxing, slow-paced tour, and informative tour in which you can visit and learn all about an area, or a fun, exciting tour with a lot of activities and memorable experience. Tour companies would usually balance every element to suit the taste of most clients, but personal preference a good way to choose a tour that best suits you.

The itinerary is what makes a company stands out. For the most part, you would want to choose a tour with all the highlights, as well as lesser-known stops included along the way. It can be a place that you may or may not have heard of or doesn’t even know about its existence, which is the most unforgettable experience.

Remember that you are paying to have your time organized logically. Some tours plan out every single minute of the day, which affects the pace of the tour. If you like to stay busy, choose a tour with more activities. And if you prefer a more idled tour with opportunities to do enjoy the surroundings, you should look for those with more free time. See how the time is devised, duration of transits, how much time is spent in every location… which determines the pace of the tour.

The schedule must be balanced. There should not be too many activities allocated within a short period of time, which might lead to exhaustion, preventing you from making the most of the tour. This type of rush-paced tour won’t be able to bring you the fullest experience. No one wants to run around all day, while the purpose of a holiday is to be relaxed and have a good time. On the other hand, a tour with too little activities will bore you. Therefore, it’s important to choose a tour company with well-balanced schedules. But be on the lookout for companies that take you on tours that take you to 7 to 8 cities in a week or so, which can be absolutely tiring, nor will you get the chance to get to know the places you are visiting any better. You should check the information on the tour’s schedule before you sign up. Also keep in mind that you should be able to have some time for your own in the schedule if you need it and most cases, you do.

6. Physical requirements of a tour

Everyone has physical limitations and boundaries. Even athletes can’t do a ten-mile walk after two hours of swimming followed by a hike up a mountain or walk cities to cities within days. Unless it is a tour of vehicles, most tours will require you to be on your feet quite a lot. If you are not into outdoor activities, then tours that are related to things like biking, trekking, long walks, … will give you a tough time. Sometimes they saved the best for last, yet you failed to join in because your body is screaming for a break. But if you are always on the go, then a tour that resolves around visiting museums, galleries, monuments, … will be rather tedious. But fear not, the best tour companies will have the tour’s plan devised logically. But you should put to consider what toll the experience may take on your body. Is your endurance enough? Do you have any injuries that might cause trouble or even stopping you from having fun? Make sure to contact the tour company of your choice and talk to them about this.

7. Is the tour kid-friendly or handicap-accessible?

This is worth taking notes if you have any kids accompanying you, or you may have certain disabilities. Don’t let it, or them, stopping you from having fun. For kids, you don’t want to bore them with hours of visiting galleries and temples or neither do you want them to be scared to death by stories told by tour guides about spooky mythical folktales or stories of wartime, or even by going through a jailhouse that would even leave some adults mentally scarred for life. You would want to give them a once-in-a-lifetime experience with adventures in nature reserves, go on a boat ride along the spectacular water. There are tours specifically for kids, it is not common in Vietnam, and you’d rather have all members of your groups or family participating in the same tour, rather than leaving some out of the fun.

Being handicapped or having injuries are other problems that limit activities you can do during a tour, from physically demanding task such as hiking, swimming, climbing, … to even easier ones like a long period of walk might. But there is not a place on earth that the disabled can’t visit, it’s just a bit tougher, and sometimes even more strategically. Though the disabled or injured can take part in normal tours, it is not advised. There are tours that suit both disabled and non-disabled tourist, whose information regarding this issue can be found at their descriptions. Or if you want more details on how accessible they are, send the company an email or make a quick phone call.

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8. Group size and participants of the tour

The people that you travel with affects you and your experience, one way or another. So it is more or less important to participate in the right group. There are big groups as well as small ones. Small groups are usually your go-to option because you will have more interaction with others as well as the guide. Tour companies which have small groups are usually mindful of the environmental impact and the experience of their customers, while not being cheap by providing service in bulk. With that said, bigger groups have their upsides as well. Your group will more diverse, with companions from different regions or even countries, which can help you make more social contact, stay at bigger hotels and eat at a bigger restaurant and for most cases, lower cost. Drawbacks, however, are plain to see. Everything takes more time to be done, from checking in at hotels to getting on and off coaches. But if you prefer to stay anonymous and take your time, then this is a better choice.

Age of participants is also a factor to be conscious of. Depends on your age and of your fellow companions, should there be any, you can decide what group of people would be more suitable. You don’t want to bring your family to and expect them to have a good time on a tour for a bunch of overly energetic students, nor would you like to bring your friends in their early 20’s to a cruise ship with the elderly. If you can’t make out the information regarding what type of group a certain tour is for, a phone call or an email to your selected tour company would come in handy.

9. Cancellation policies and insurance issues

Let’s say for certain reasons, your holiday is interrupted and you are forced to cancel the tour. It happens out of the blue and there’s nothing you can do about it. This situation can lead to various results depending on the cancellation policies of different companies. But while most people who purchase travel insurance with trip cancellation thinking that they are able to cancel their trip at any point and just get their money back, that is not how it works. So here are some tips on how you can get a refund, or at least being able to reschedule the tour.

First, contact your selected company’s customer service. Then you have to state rational and reasonable causes of your cancellation. They must meet the requirements of the company’s policy and if legit enough, it’ll be accepted, if it’s not specifically listed or excluded, it won’t be covered. Here is a list of typically covered reasons for trip cancellation or interruption according to Travelinsurancereview, which includes:

• Injury or illness of insured, travel companion, family member, or business partner
• Hurricane or natural disaster strikes destination
• Bankruptcy or financial default of travel company
• Terrorism or mandatory evacuation at a destination
• Death or hospitalization of a destination host
• Home or business damaged, vandalized, or burglarized
• Jury duty, a required court appearance, or military redeployment
• Required to work, terminated, or transferred
• Victim of felonious assault prior to the trip
• Traffic accident prior to the trip
• Theft of passport or visa prior to the trip
• School year extension
• Legal separation or divorce
• Loss of accommodations abroad due to an illness or death of host family or friends

Take note that different companies or travel insurances have different coverages. There is another option, which is the “cancel for any reason” coverage, which allows you to cancel for any reason, including ones like changing your mind, being too afraid to go, … But the drawback is that you might not get a full refund, but only a portion of what you have paid, usually above 50%. Whatever your choice is, remember to carefully inspect the description in the contract or in the company’s policies. This can be found within the contract or the company’s website as well as by asking them directly.

And in case you don’t have cancellation insurance, here’s what you can do. First, look into the cancel policies and discuss with the tour company on how to solve this situation. Some companies have flexible policies which return your money in full or in forms of vouchers for alternative or future travels. Or at least you can just politely ask them to move the date and time to when it’s possible for you. It can be the same tour but in the following month or even a different tour.

Overall, a good company with polite manners will be more than pleased to provide you with assistance if things don’t go well for you.

III. Some advice on how to choose a tour company

1. Make use of the Internet and search for reviews and opinions

The first, most common, basic step that everyone does when deciding what tour company they want to travel with, is to look into reviews on the Internet. The problem is, it is the Internet. You can’t expect to get direct, accurate information from it without a grain of salt. Some people are fastidious enough to give the company a low rating with comments such as “my breakfast didn’t have toast”, “taxi/coach drivers didn’t know English” or even “the weather was always humid”. Some even have the guts to complain about something they didn’t read the description of the tour. Remember that often people only give a rating to complain about something. Also, some companies have all five-star ratings on every website, yet the comments are very similar on every site. What you need to do is to find something in the middle. There are good and not too bad ratings, which are usually more honest. The higher the number of positive feedbacks, the better, but not too high, or you might fall for cheeky gimmicks. If the positive ones outweigh the bad, that is a choice on your list. Try using different websites to compare the options. If you can get reviews from prior customers who are your friends, family or acquaintances, that would be a valuable source of information.

You should also give a closer look into their expertise and experience, which are usually advertised on multiple platforms, most commonly used is their website. A good strategy is to look for images, videos, … feedback of their customers to see how they operate and how the customer responds and what they have to say in real time. With the growth of social media these days, you can do this just by clicking the hashtag with the company name on any platform such as Facebook or Twitter.

The last thing to keep in mind is to make sure that they are not a travel agent. Travel agent tends to have higher pricing, and some even sell your information to others. Don’t get mistaken between the two, tour companies and travel agents are very different.

2. Stick to local tour companies, if possible

This is rather obvious. Local tour companies know their stuff, as they were born there. They know how to optimize the time you have while remaining in budget. They also got tips and trick up their sleeves to keep you away from cons, frauds, and scammers, or even dangerous hotspots on the map. The local knowledge they have will solve all your queries as well as the language issue. You can always opt for an international tour, but it should be the last resort. It would be much wiser to spend some time choosing a local tour company, which takes somewhat the same amount of effort.

3. Make a “Travel Expectations” or “Travel Goals” list

Be a smart traveler. Know what you want and be stern about it. Do you want to have some time by yourself? Is there included breakfast? Does the itinerary peak your interest? … but remember to be logical. This list will help you sort out your options in a quick manner.

4. Get yourself some local experience or advice from acquaintances

When reviews are not enough, or you just want to be certain of where you’ll be entrusting your time an effort, words on local streets might come in handy. Who else knows the area better than the locals? If you have friends from the region, ask for their opinion on what company to go for. If you’re lucky you might pick out some fantastic suggestions. Same goes for consulting acquaintances who have experienced traveling with a certain company. This method is much more reliable, but you don’t expect to get much of it.

5. Keep a sharp eye on deals and discounts

Lastly, once you have chosen your company, deals and discounts should be a bonus feature. Sign up for news on the company’s website, or if they have a section dedicated to this, check it out. This doesn’t hold much importance, but to knows, you might be able to save quite a lot for your next tour.

IV. Some recommended tour companies in Vietnam

1. Tonkin – An energetic Hanoi based, family-owned tour company

With daily trip and unique offer, Tokin is one of the top options of tour companies in Vietnam. Founded by two Hanoians, Tokin has been providing tailored holidays in Vietnam and other local regions to suit everyone’s taste and budget since 2001. Their reputation has grown with their quality of service has been positively spread within the community, both locally and internationally. High ratings and positive feedbacks of their work are abundant among trustworthy travel forums.

Contact information:

• Address: No. 164 Xuan Dieu, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Phone: (+84) 2 437 191 184
• Email: info@tonkintravel.com

2. Lux Travel DMC – The leading tour company specialized in high-end travel packages

Lux Travel DMC Ltd is the first travel company specializing in high-end traveling in Vietnam. Established in 2004, Lux Travel DMC Ltd has nearly 15-years of experience in serving high-end travelers, setting up the tailor-made tour and creating unique luxury experiences in Indochina- Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand. Recognized as one of the leading Vietnam tour operators in luxury tailor-made travel segment of Southeast Asia, the company has been rewarded with many international rewards and most importantly, 99.9% client satisfaction and recommendations.

Contact information:

• Address: No. 456 Lac Long Quan Str., Tay Ho, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Tel: (+84)  243 927 4120
• Hotline: (+84) 123 468 6996
• Email: sales@luxtraveldmc.com

Contact us now!

3. Indochina Best Travel – Your Trusty Compass

A Traveler’s choice on Tripadvisor, Indochina Best Travel Company Limited is one of the best choices here in Vietnam, offering leading tours of Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia customizable to your every need.

Contact information:

• Address: No 27, Lane 282, Lac Long Quan Str, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Tel: (+84) 246 672 5858
• Whatsapp: (+84) 972 620 003
• Email: sale@indochinabesttravel.com

4. Legend Travel Group – Your true go to local on the ground

Established in 2008, Legend Travel Group is one of the award-winning companies that are born and bred in Asia with their base set in Hanoi. What makes them stand out is their profound knowledge of Asian countries. With around 15,000 travelers served annually, they aim to offer you the fullest experience here in Asia.

Contact information:

• Address: Suite 514 & 1312, 4F Building, Trung Hoa St, Cau Giay Dist, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Tel: (+84) 2437 834 288
• Email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com

5. Vietnam Unique Tour, offering clients the quality services they deserve

Founded on January 12th, 2012, Vietnam Unique Tours is the among the newcomers, but its experienced staff will guarantee both domestic and international guest with quality services, as in their slogan “we are unique, you are number one”.  They provide a wide variety of tour packages and travel options for throughout Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar.

Contact information:

• Address: No. 26c/173 Hoang Hoa Tham St, Ba Dinh Dist, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Tel: (+84) 2 439 271 992
• Hotline: (+84) 966 966 515
• Email: info@vietnamuniquetours.com

V. An introduction of Lux Travel DMC

1. Why Lux Travel DMC?

We offer luxury travel exclusively in Southeast Asia, one of the most diverse and interesting regions in the world. We specialize in high-end travel packages in Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar. Our commitment is for you to experience what is best of the region amazing scenery, historical and cultural values and high-quality services, in hope that it would be a holiday of a lifetime for you

2. The Company and Our staff

Our company by established by CEO, Mr. Pham Ha, with 15 years of experience in the industry and a keynote speaker at luxury markets in many parts of the globe, with a view to creating memories worthy for high-end travelers.

We are dedicated to providing you with the most authentic, luxurious travel experience. We work with ethics, professionalism, and excellence, in order to improve aspects that make us not only good but exceptional.

Our staff has received special training program so that they can develop skills and proficiency in every aspect of travel and customer services. We listening attentively to all of our client’s wishes and requirements, and bring you the perfect itinerary.

Our most splendid achievement is our 99% satisfaction rate. We have industry and consumer awards to test our claims off outstanding reputation, which is why 60% of our clients are second timers.

3. What do we do at Lux Travel DMC?

• Design customized travel services for leisure and business travelers, and group tours
• Tailor personal tours for newlyweds, families, food enthusiasts, … and many more.
• Provide service for meetings, conferences, exhibitions, …
• Run our own wide array of air-conditioned vehicles from standard cars to 16-seat Mercedes Benz luxury vans and full-sized coaches
• Grant access to private yachts, jets, helicopters and luxury trains

4. Our Quality of Services

• We make a lot of effort in developing products, while our staff keeps you up to date with the newest tour programs and experience within the region.
• Our associations with providers keep pricing at competitive range while guaranteeing the quality of service.
• Our travel advisors have substantial knowledge of accommodation in order to choose the hotels that lookup to customer’s expectations, ranging from 4-star hotels to sumptuous international hotels and resorts international hotels and deluxe beach resorts.
• We are devoted to responsible tourism and do our best to secure the values of our destinations for future generations.

5. Why should you travel with us?

• We receive any query within 12 hours and leave a response in the following 24 hours.
• Every customer will receive 24/7 support from our staff from arrival to departure.
• Our hotline is active for 24 hours per day for our customer
• Our team speaks multiple languages, including English, Chinese, French, German, Italian, and Spanish
• Our office branches spread all the way to California, London, Berlin, Buenos Aires, Montevideo, and Brisbane.

6. How to book a tour with Lux Travel DMC

a. Booking through the official website of Lux Travel DMC

• Step 1: Access to their official website: https://luxtraveldmc.com
• Step 2: Click on “Plan Your Trip” and enter your contact information, then send information regarding your interest.
• Step 3: The Lux Travel DMC sales team will contact you directly to confirm your request along with the itinerary details.

b. Reservation by telephone

Contact information:

• Address: n. 456 Lac Long Quan Str., Tay Ho, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Tel: (+84) 243 927 4120
• Direct line: (+84) 123 468 6996
• Email: sales@luxtraveldmc.com
• Hours of operation: Mon-Sat 8:30 am – 5:30 pm | Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00

<p>The post How you can find the best tour companies in Vietnam first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.</p>

If you are planning to explore the fascinating beauty of North Vietnam from Hanoi to Sapa while getting mesmerized by the exoticism of its landscape, appeal of the indigenous culture and rural life of local people, a train to Sapa from Hanoi by Victoria Express is the best one to opt for. As the name suggests, this express train is a facsimile of ultimate luxury and grandeur on wheels. This stylish Victoria Express train to Sapa evokes a strong sense of elegance, heritage, and history. French constructed this railway track from Hanoi to Lao Cai and inaugurated in 1910. This Sapa tour Vietnam embeds a rich heritage.

The train puts on its whistle at 10.00pm to set off for Lao Cai. It runs overnight for eight hours to reach Lao Cai at 6.10am. A perfect time to set off for your Sapa tour. Please do not forget to contact Lux Travel DMC consultant to create an unique Sapa tour by luxury train for your next trip!

1. Introduction about Sapa

a. The weather condition in Sapa

Sa Pa is a tourist attraction that is about 30 km from Lao Cai city center. Located at an average altitude of 1500 – 1800 m above sea level, Sapa Town is always immersed in floating clouds, which creates a fanciful, strange and beautiful picture. The invaluable resource is cool weather all year, with an average temperature of 15-18 ° C.

Tourists come here not only to enjoy the fresh air, the simple tranquility of this land in the northwest, but also to admire the unspoiled beauty of terraced fields, falls, and mountains, and discover the customs and culture, the beauty of the ethnic groups in the mountains such as: Black H’Mong, Red Dzao, Tay, Dzay …

b. Breathtaking places in Sapa

Sapa has Fanxipang peak 3,143 m high on Hoang Lien Son mountain. This mountain is called Hoang Lien Son because there are Hoang Lien trees, rare and precious medicinal plants which only exist in this mountain. In addition, Hoang Lien Son is also a mine of precious wood species such as oil pine, bear, monkey, chamois and thousands of medical plants. Hoang Lien Son has 136 bird species, 56 mammal species, 553 insect species. There are 37 mammal species recorded in “Vietnam Red Book”.

Ham Rong Mountain is considered as a “must-visit” place for tourists. Ham Rong is close to the town, any visitor can go there to see the whole town, Muong Hoa valley, Sa Pa, Ta Phin hid in smog. Currently, with the hand of human being, Ham Rong is truly a beautiful landscape of Sapa. And, if anyone came to Thach Lam (Yunnan, China), Ham Rong could also help them imagine Thach Lam. Going to Ham Rong, tourists will feel like coming to a fairy garden with floating clouds and bright flowers.

Sapa also has an ancient church called Stone Church. The church was built in 1895 and considered as a French ancient architectural mark in the most integrity condition which still remained until now in Sapa. The church has been embellished and preserved, becoming an indispensable image when mentioning to Sapa town.

From Sapa town, going west about 12km on the way to Lai Chau, we will meet Silver Waterfall with the water rushing from the height of over 200m to create impressive mountain sounds.

Sa Pa has 6 ethnic groups, each group has its own culture with different festivals such as “Roang Pao festival” of Giay Ta Van people,  “Sai San festival” of the Mong people, the “dance festival” of Red Dzao people, all take place in the Lunar New Year. Sapa is the “kingdom” of fruits and flowers, such as peach blossom, plum, purple plum, plum blossom, pear flower, cherry blossom, chrysanthemum, rose … especially immortal flowers live forever with time.

2. Benefits of Rail journey during Sa Pa Tour Vietnam

a. An overnight journey in cozy rail

A restful overnight luxurious train journey is a delightful experience to treasure during Vietnam trip after a day’s exploration in the Old Quarter of Hanoi, witnessing the legendary Turtle Tower in the center of Hoan Kiem Lake, admiring the charms of the French colonial buildings in the alleys of Old Quarter and paying respect to Ho Chi Minh at his mausoleum. As the dawn sets in, you can sense the swift overnight transition from vibrant city life to calm and peaceful countryside. An incredible view of the mountainous landscape with green valleys and terraced rice fields peeps through in between. This picturesque setting of North Vietnam welcomes its guests at Lao Cai before an en route to Sapa shortly. The mesmerizing views are enough to boost you up for an exciting Sapa tour ahead.

In the luxury travel industry, luxurious rail holiday is a rising trend and is also an ecological and viable holiday option. The overnight journey by Victoria Express in North Vietnam allows travelers to experience an ultimate royalty and grandiose. It is elegantly designed with luxury cabins, equipped with all modern amenities and services. Thanks to its upscale furnishings and elite decoration creating a royal aura. The travelers can enjoy the outdoor scenic beauty while being in the comforts and pleasure of a 5-star stay on wheels.

b. Enjoy 5-star journey with Victoria Express

With its service standards, the Victoria Express is always considered to be the most high-class fleet in all fleets operating and transporting tourists from Hanoi to Lao Cai and vice versa. When starting to enter the passenger wagons, you will enjoy a cozy, classic and luxurious space with a natural aroma that makes you feel comfortable that no fleet can bring it to you.

In a week, the Victoria Express train departs six times in 8.5 hours to travel from Hanoi – Lao Cai Station and vice versa. Victoria Express has three train wagons (02 of them are guest rooms, the last wagon is a high-class restaurant). Each passenger wagon has 07 rooms, each room is luxuriously designed with wooden walls to bring absolute silence and a wide window with a beautiful view. Indeed, on the journey from Hanoi to Lao Cai, you can watch the beautiful scenery on both sides of the road: sightseeing of the majestic mountains when the delegation arrives in Sapa, admire the early morning activities of the people of Hanoi when the delegation arrives in Hanoi and many other familiar images.

It is great if you have the opportunity to experience the service of Victoria Express fleet to be able to feel the fullness of luxury, classic things, and at the same time enjoin Vietnamese traditional cuisine or the West cuisine at the “Le Tonkin” restaurant wagon, the best wines will be selected and served by the talented chef,… and from those wonderful things, you will be sunken in a romantic feeling when you drop your soul in nostalgic features.

Equipment on board:

• Air condition
• Free wifi
• Personal reading lights
• Set of personal items
• Slippers
• Luggage storage
• Large glass doors for sightseeing
• Bathrobe equipped in Deluxe compartment

Train schedule:

• From Hanoi to Lao Cai: Every day, depart at 22:00, arrive at 6:10 (except Saturday)
• From Lao Cai to Hanoi: Every day, depart at 21:40, arrive at 5:30 (except Saturday)
• Time of departure/ Arrival time is maybe changed, please contact Victoria Express for updated information.

Notice:

• Hanoi Railway Station address: No. 120 Le Duan Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Hanoi Railway Station is about 1 hour from Noi Bai International Airport and 10 minutes from the city center.
• Victoria Express has the right to cancel the service in circumstances beyond its control.
• The tourists who book rooms in Victoria Sapa Resort are the one who can book Victoria Express tickets
•  Price is for 01 person including tax and service charge
• Fares do not include food on board.
• On trains with restaurant prescriptions, we have a “buffet” menu or menu available including 4 dishes. Please order food at the time of registration.
• Price for children: Children under 05 years are free; Children from 5 to 12 years old buy 75% of the total fare

This speedy train journey from Hanoi to Sapa saves time, allowing the travelers to relax and enjoy their leisure time while getting refreshed for the next day adventure and sightseeing ahead. With Lux Travel DMC, this leisurely ride can be complemented with the ubiquity of today’s traveling ideas like discovering more and more beyond expectations or crossing the threshold of adventures which is diverse in mountainous terrains of Sapa and Fansipan.

3. Rail journey package in Sapa Tour Vietnam

a. Day 1: Hanoi – Lao Cai

The luxury adventure trip will start from Hanoi at night. The tourists will be picked up and taken to Hanoi Station at no.120 Le Duan street by English assistants for getting on the train. The train will departure at 21:55 pm and arrive at Lao Cai at 6:00 am.

b. Day 2: Lao Cai – Sapa

Victoria Express train arrives at Lao Cai at around 6:00 am. After getting off the train, the tourists will move to another vehicle to transfer to Sapa. It is 33 km from Lao Cai to Sapa and it takes 1.5 hours to reach Sapa. You will check into Victoria hotel and have breakfast here in Ta Ban Restaurant. After breakfast, it is time to explore this beautiful town by yourself. At 2:00 pm, you will meet your guide for a walking tour around hilltripe villages – Cat Cat village, home of Hmong ethnic minority group. Visiting Cat Cat village, you will have a chance to share cultural experiences and watch the daily life activities of the Hmong people. You will overnight at the Victoria Sapa hotel.

c. Day 3: Sapa – Lao Cai – Hanoi

Following breakfast, you can explore Sapa Sunday market and then join 3-4 hour trek. Trekking is one of the best ways for you to discover a place. Indeed, it will take you along buffalo paths and cross several hill tribe villages such as Sin Chai, Lao Chai, Ta Van, Y Linh Ho,… It is an exactly spectacular walk that brings you through stunning scenery. You can experience a picnic right on the way. At the end of the day, you will be taken to Lao Cai station and come back to Hanoi by Victoria Express. The time you will departure is 21:05 pm and arrive at Hanoi at 6:00 am.

4. What experts say about Luxury Rail Tour in Vietnam

According to industry experts, it is quite easy to convince the travelers for a luxury rail tour or rail holiday but what is important is extending them the experiences and memories that they look for in the journey. In today’s travel industry, luxury is something beyond comfort, 5-star stays and so on. It is more about personal experiences that a traveler wants to enjoy and admire. During Vietnam travel, this short yet pleasurable rail journey to Sapa allows travelers to get familiar with Vietnam Railway Services which is very much different from most of the countries around the world.

The route to Sapa is highly mountainous, so bumpy rides are quite common in case of roadways. This problem is greatly minimized in rail route, especially in case of luxury trains like Victoria Express. Contrary to other express trains, luxury rail tours like Victoria Express offers elite-class facilities. The cabins are specifically designed to ensure the complete privacy of the travelers. High-end restrooms and refreshment cabins offer a perfect luxury escape from the cabins whenever needed. Luxury Rail Tour is like a 5-star stay on wheels while cherishing the passing by beauties.

5. Sapa Tour from Lao Cai station

Sapa is cuddling on the mountain lap around 35 km away from Lao Cai Station. It takes around one hour to reach Sapa city center from Lao Cai through picturesque meandering ways. Outside the Lao Cai Station, a number of buses and minibusses wait for the tourists for transfer to Sapa. Lux Travel DMC arranges a private transfer for its guests at the Lao Cai Station. This comfortable luxury private transfer allows them to enjoy the early morning scenic beauty of glorious Fansipan and entire Sapa. On the way, you can stop at a few viewpoints including the famous Bac Ha Market to witness the bewitching backdrop after early sunrise.

6. Alternative ways to go to Sapa from Hanoi

a. Bus – the cheapest and easiest way

Sapa tour Vietnam is a very common itinerary mostly among trekkers and adventure passionates. As an alternative to train to Sapa, there are options for buses and private cars. In case of Sapa bus, there are multiple options to choose from. The easiest way to move to Sapa is going by bus. All bus companies only run on the Hanoi – Lao Cai highway, which takes only about 5 – 6 hours to reach Sapa instead of 10 – 11 hours in the past. Currently, there are many buses going from Hanoi to Sapa, which is divided into 2 categories: seat, and bed.

The bus is a common choice of many tourists because of its popularity, cheapness and easiness. However, for a 6-hours journey from Hanoi to Sapa, you cannot compromise with luxury. Travelers will come across a medley of private operators for Sapa bus. But only a handful offers air-cushioned luxury suspension reclining seats in good condition. For the bendy twisting routes of the steep mountainous terrain of Sapa, comfortable seats are very essential to avoid motion sickness.

Toilet facility is there in most of the luxury Sapa buses. Generally, the service includes neck pillow, blankets, bottled water and light snacks. Besides, most passenger cars provide good quality with drinking water, bread, wifi, and charger,… Sapa buses run both in daytime and night. There are many different buses with different time of departure, so you can take the initiative in time. However, traveling by bus may face obstacles in the rainy season because the road to Sapa is quite a bumpy slope.

As the wheels move further north from Hanoi, nature starts reflecting its varying shades, somewhere sharp edges testing your dare, sudden mist, and clouds and then again gigantic shapes appearing suddenly from behind the clouds.

b. Private car – the most convenient way

Private car is another option but undoubtedly, it charges pretty higher than Sapa bus or train. Considering the long distance travel from Hanoi to Sapa, private car transfers are also not as comfortable as train or bus. Private cars drop you at the doorstep of the hotel whereas Sapa buses make its way till Sapa city center.

c. Motorbike – the best way for adventure addict people

With a cost of about 150,000-200,000 VND for motorbike journeys to Sapa, riding a motorbike is a suitable choice for young people who love discovering. You can drive and admire the scenery,  and do not forget to take lots of commemorative photos.

Follow Route 70:

This route is about 390 km and it can take 10-12 hours to reach Sapa. Currently, this road has deteriorated, the landscape along the road is not as good as going along route 32.

Follow Route 32:

Route 32 comes from Cau Giay, Hanoi, runs through Phu Tho, Yen Bai and Lai Chau. Crossroad Binh Lu (Lai Chau) is the end of the route, you can keep going along 4D Route to reach Sapa.

This route is famous for its beautiful scenery and is one of the most favorite routes of backpacking people. You will go through a series of scenic spots such as Tu Le and Mu Cang Chai with the immense terraced fields, Khau Pha Pass and O Quy Ho Pass which are two of  “four great passes” of the Northwest of Vietnam. Silver Waterfall is also a destination worth visiting on your journey.

At present, Route 32 has been renewed, the road is very beautiful with few cars, which becomes an ideal route for you to enjoy exploring by motorbike.

However, the distance is quite long (about 455 km), it is impossible to travel from Hanoi to Sapa in one day unless you drive at night. However, driving in the pass is very dangerous even in the daylight time,  so you should ride a motorbike at night.

If you travel from Hanoi early in the morning, and you do not stop during the journey for taking photos. You can go to Than Uyen (Lai Chau) to sleep overnight. In the next day, you can drive in 2,5 hours (about 100km) for passing O Quy Ho Pass to Sapa.

If you have time, you should stop at Nghia Lo town or Mu Cang Chai town, Yen Bai province to take a rest, discover these wonderful places and sleep overnight there.

However, if you are not in good health and not a professional traveler, therefore, we recommend that you should not choose to travel by motorcycle to ensure safety.

Riding a motorbike with a distance of more about 400 km requires good health, perseverance, and love to explore. Besides, going to the Northwest is hilly, so it is very dangerous if you are not familiar with driving a motorbike on a long road.

About Lux Travel DMC

With the continuous twist and turns in the luxury travel industry, Lux Travel DMC is redefining its way of approach to interpret the needs and demands of luxury travel connoisseurs on an individual basis to create tailor-made holidays according to their preferences. We take the pride of providing personal services with a professional approach. We emphasize on creating lifetime memories during your Southeast Asia holidays.

Contact us here for rail tour to North Vietnam or a complete Vietnam holiday package along with Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar or Thailand.

• Address: No.456 Lac Long Quan Street, Tay Ho District, Hanoi, Vietnam
  
• Phone: (+84) 4 3927 4120
  
• Email: sales@luxtraveldmc.com
  
• Hotline: +84-336-276-996
  

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<p>The post Sapa Tour North Vietnam- The Undeniable Romance of Luxury Train Travel first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.</p>

When it comes to the Mekong Delta, nothing can beat what the “floating” or high-tide season can offer tourists. Starting in the seventh month of the lunar calendar and ending in the tenth, the season is marked with flooded fields and beautifully blossoming yellow flowers known as dien dien in Vietnamese. Seasonal dishes, which are made from the flower and ca linh, a fish species in the carp family, are also a major draw.

2. Watching sunrise in the central province of Phu Yen

The best place to experience this is Cape Dai Lanh, about 80 kilometers north of the central beach town of Nha Trang. As Vietnam’s easternmost point, it is the first place one can see the morning sun. After indulging in the golden rays, you can then head to the nearby beach to sunbathe and swim.

3. Visiting ripe rice terraces in northern highlands

Rice terraces in the northern highlands provinces, such as Ha Giang, Yen Bai and Lao Cai, look magnificent all year round, even when they are flooded by monsoon rains. But only during the harvest season, between the end of September and mid-October, is their beauty in its prime. Golden fields, which run along mountains and are highlighted by green forests, have become popular postcard pictures. Hoang Su Phi, Mu Cang Chai and Sa Pa are the best places to visit.

4. Climbing Fansipan

With a height of 3,143 meters, Fansipan is Vietnam’s highest mountain and often dubbed “The Roof of Indochina,” so there is no excuse for not visiting it. The fact that it is only 9 kilometers from Lao Cai’s Sa Pa resort town should land it a place on every trekking fan’s itinerary. It takes about two to five days to reach the peak and return. Although the mountain top is accessible all year round, it is best to visit in October and November.

5. Luxury Halong Bay Tours

Luxury Halong Bay tours is without a doubt a trademark of Vietnam’s tourism. Although a day tour is enough for you to explore the world heritage site’s unworldly beauty, you must stay the night on a cruise to truly appreciate its grandeur. The serenity one feels while lying on the deck of a boat, watching a starry sky, and breathing in the salty sea smell, which is stronger at night, is well worth every dime you pay for the experience.

6. Riding motorcycles from Nha Trang to Cam Ranh

Open to traffic in 2010, a 30-kilometer road between the Nha Trang resort town and Cam Ranh town is often praised as one of the most beautiful roads in the central region. Although it curves around a mountain, it also runs along beautiful beaches. For VND70,000-90,000 a day, you can rent a motorbike for your own use, exploring the road at a leisurely pace and occasionally making a stop to take photos of surrounding landscapes.

7. Exploring Son Doong Cave

Since it was named the world’s largest cave by British explorers, Son Doong in the central province of Quang Binh has taken both local and international media by storm. Travel magazines and websites around the world have constantly named it one of the top destinations. In addition to its impressive size–6.5 kilometers long and more than 200 meters high–the cave boasts primeval and mesmerizing limestone structures.

8. Diving in Phu Quoc

Although Nha Trang has long been established as a diving mecca among foreign tourists, Phu Quoc Island in the south has become a new favorite in recent years. With its nearly untainted sea, wild beaches and colorful coral reefs, the best time to visit the island is between December and March.

9. Boating in Hoi An

The ancient town in the central province of Quang Nam has charmed millions of foreign tourists over the years. Little as Hoi An is, you can spend days exploring it: walking around centuries-old neighborhoods, discovering local food and gazing at the colorful and elegant lanterns. Make sure you don’t forget to take a boat along the Hoai River at night to see and feel how surreal the town’s peacefulness is.

Source: thanhniennews.com

<p>The post 9 things tourists must do, but often miss in Vietnam first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.</p>