Classic Vietnam: North to South Journey

An 11-day north-to-south journey covering Vietnam in depth. Beyond the highlights of the Explorer route, this adds the stunning Ninh Binh karst landscape ('Ha Long Bay on Land'), the atmospheric overnight Reunification Express train to Hue, the imperial citadel and royal cuisine of Hue, the spectacular Hai Van Pass drive to Da Nang, and a Mekong Delta day trip from Saigon. This is the full picture of Vietnam -- its history, food, landscapes, and people -- at a pace that lets you absorb each city properly.

BEST TIME: March-April or October-November for the whole north-to-south route. VISA: E-visa required for Indians. $25 USD single entry. Apply at evisa.gov.vn 5-7 days before travel. THE TRAIN: The Reunification Express night train (Hanoi to Hue) is an experience in itself -- soft sleeper cabins with charging points, and you wake up to stunning scenery. Book on dsvn.vn or 12go.asia. THE DRIVE: The Hai Van Pass (Hue to Hoi An) was called 'the best coast road in the world' by Top Gear. We arrange a private car over the pass. FOOD: This itinerary covers all three Vietnamese food regions. Hanoi (clean, subtle broths), Hue (spicy, complex royal cuisine), Saigon (sweeter, herb-heavy, French-influenced). MEKONG DELTA: The day trip to the delta is a window into rural Vietnamese life -- floating markets, coconut candy workshops, elephant ear fish grilled whole. MONEY: 1 INR ~ 285 VND. Cash for markets and street food. Grab app for all city transport.