Hanoi Mid Cruise Overnight (Single)
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port
Halong Bay, Vietnam
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activityLevel
Moderate Activity
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excursionType
Information Not Currently Available
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wheelchairAccessible
No
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startingAtPrice
$1490
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minimumAge
Information Not Currently Available
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duration
Approximately 26 Hours
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mealsIncluded
Meals included
Ha Long Bay
“Ha Long Bay, includes some 1,600 islands and islets, forming a spectacular seascape of limestone pillars. Because of their precipitous nature, most of the islands are uninhabited and unaffected by a human presence. The site's outstanding scenic beauty is complemented by its great biological interest.”
Day 1 (L/D)
Disembark the ship for the 2.5-hour drive to the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi. Boasting glorious French colonial architecture and numerous lakes, the city is the jewel in Vietnam's crown.
Upon arrival, visit the Temple of Literature, dating from 1070, it is dedicated to Confucianism. In 1076, Vietnam's first national university was built next to the temple. Enjoy walking through the tranquil courtyards and see the pavilion where 'men of letters' once recited their poetry.
Transfer to a local restaurant for lunch.
After lunch, drive to Hanoi's imposing Ba Dinh Square which is dominated by the impressive marble and granite tomb where the father of the country lies in state. Visit President Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum area including his tomb, stilt house and one pillar pagoda.
Drive to Hoa lo prison, namely Ha noi Hilton. Here you will see rooms where the French imprisoned many Vietnamese patriots. The prison is famous because this was also a place to imprison many American pilots including Former Senator John McCain.
Next, drive past the Hoan Kiem Lake, where you will see a tiny island in the middle featuring the Ngoc Son temple dedicated to Tran Hung Dao, a hero who fought against the Mongolian troops in the 13th century.
Settle in at the Water Puppet theater and enjoy a charming water puppet show accompanied by live folk music.
Have dinner at local restaurant.
Transfer to the Intercontinental West Lake Ha Noi hotel (or similiar). Check in the hotel.
Day 2 (B/L)
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out and driving back to Halong Bay.
Ha Long Bay covers approximately 580 square miles and whose name means “Bay of the Descending Dragon”. It consists of about 3,000 limestone monolithic islands, rising from the ocean with their thick, jungle-like vegetation.
The best way to experience the bay is by converted fishing junk which offers a wonderful opportunity to fully enjoy this magical scenery. Enjoy lunch onboard the junk as you sail amongst the beautiful rock formations.
Following your cruise, transfer to the pier to rejoin the ship.
Please note: Participants must negotiate stairs and/or uneven surfaces and is therefore not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Pack one small bag for the program, dress is casual and comfortable. Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring a hat, sunscreen and sunglasses. Ho Chi Minh’s tomb will be closed on Monday and Friday. Travel time to Hanoi is approximately 2-3 hours each way depending on traffic. Water puppet show times may vary.
Important: Visa requirements for these vacation enhancements may vary from those required for your cruise. It is solely each guest's responsibility to obtain (before traveling) any visas, vaccinations or tourist cards that are required for participating in Overland Adventures or Overnights, unless noted otherwise in the description. Please be aware that you may need a visa for any and/or all countries that you will depart from and travel through as part of your Overland Adventure or Overnight, and for the country in which you will re-join the ship. If you require further assistance, Holland America Line's preferred visa service is CIBTvisas. You must advise CIBTvisas of your Overland Adventures or Overnights, as the visa requirements for these vacation enhancements may vary from those required for your cruise. For CIBTvisas contact information, please visit https://www.hollandamerica.com/en_US/faq.cruise-preparation.visa-service-provider.html