Bhutan Family Tour

The 1,000 Year-Old City

If you can only visit one city in Vietnam, it should be Hanoi. To visit Hanoi is to steep yourself in history, tradition, and legend in a capital that has been inhabited continuously for a millennium. Hanoi's present architecture is mainly from the 19th and 20th centuries, and the stately French-built section of town is largely intact. Hanoi is cleaner, leafier, and quieter than other big cities in Vietnam — in a word, it's "cooler."

There's cooler weather, more drizzle, less traffic, less hype; the streets seem quieter, with few large billboards. There's a cooler mentality here, too-prouder, more prudish. Hanoi is a magnet for intellectuals and artists, while Saigon seems to attract entrepreneurs and hustlers. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city boasts the country's only world-class museums and artists prefer the city, their galleries and studios have recently enjoyed global attention.

Cycling Bhutan

The spectacular geographic highlight of Vietnam does not disappoint, but enthralls. Halong Bay has over 3,000 limestone and dolomite islets sprinkled over an area of 1,500 square kilometers, offering a wonderland of karst topography. In recognition of this, in 1994 Halong was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Legend has it that when the Vietnamese were under attack long ago, a dragon came to their aid, splitting mountains to impede the progress of the enemy. The limestone topography was created by the lash of the dragon's tail as it thundered down from the mountains to the sea; consequently, "Vinh Halong" — Halong Bay-means "Bay of the Descending Dragon." In geological terms, the mythical monster at work here is wind and water, weathering the porous limestone over a few million years. This process created the bizarre limestone cathedrals, colonized by stunted and twisted vegetation. The misty romantic setting of rugged island peaks and bays dotted with sailing junks has inspired a whole genre of Vietnamese painting. Halong Bay is featured in our 2008 Photography Series. For celluloid viewing, watch Indochine with Catherine Deneuve.

We recommend at least one night on the bay. Kayaking allows up close access to the islands and cave exploration. Read more about our trips to Halong Bay and the special boats we use on Halong Bay.

Bhutan Festival Tours

Cuc Phuong is most important area of biodiversity, designated a national park by president Ho Chi Minh in 1962. The park, roughly six miles wide and fifteen miles long, was created in 1962-the first area in Vietnam set aside as a national park. It covers an area of 25,000 hectares, but for the moment is primarily a national park in name only. There are six Muong villages in the park: villagers farm and raise cattle on park lands and hunt. Deforestation in the surrounding area steadily encroaches on parkland, and large amounts of brushwood disappear from the park daily. The park supports a wide variety of flora species and patches of primeval forest, including 50-meter-tall Cinamomum, Parashorea, and Sandicorum trees. You can find ancient trees with thick clusters of roots, and parasitic plants and ligneous creepers. Some tree species have been introduced from Myanmar (Burma), India, and Borneo. Clusters of orchids grow near cave entrances, where the moisture conditions and light are ideal. Varieties include coral, vanilla, snow-white, and butterfly orchids.

Highlights of Bhutan Tours

Weave into the mountains and experience the world's happiest culture. In 12 days immersing you in the purity of an untouched Buddhist nation, hidden in the Himalayan foothiils, this warm and welcoming nation celebrates the beauty of traditional culture unchanged by the outside world. Its unique identity has been effortlessly preserved into the 21st century, along with astonishing nature and the spellbinding sweetness of tranquility. This is the land of happiness, where progress is measured in smiles and spiritual tones float elegantly on the alpine breeze. Authentic and comprehensive, our classic luxury Bhutan tour helps you explore the country's new definitions of reality. You experience an untamed way of life that brings purity to every moment.

Our signature Bhutan tour explores the different sides to the country, both geographically and culturally. Immerse yourself in the Bumthang region, a cultural heartland that's quick to show the country's ambiance. Discover fortresses and shrines on the journey through the Himalayas to the astonishing Black Mountain National Park. Spend two days in and around ancient capital Punakha, home of sacred and surreal icons. Experience the sacred pilgrimage journey to Tiger's Nest Monastery at trip's end.

Bhutan Luxury Tours

One of the world's most exclusive destinations deserves planning it to be one of the most special trips of your life. Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, Bhutan has been secluded from the rest of the world for centuries. But now, a fortunate few can have the opportunity to witness its breathtaking landscapes, serene farms and exceptional customs. With Indochina Travel, gain exclusive access to some of the most remotest of places and people.

A journey to Bhutan with Indochina Travel allows you to experience every aspect of this incredible country. Explore the capital Thimphu, with its numerous temples, and meet monks in awe-inspiring monasteries. Venture into the stunning countryside and ascend the winding steps of the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, seemingly perched in mid-air 3,000 feet above the valley floor.

Experience sublime selection of lodging at the Amans that dot the country, newer Four Seasons, Taj, and Uma resorts, to make your journey that much more remarkable.

VIEW BHUTAN LUXURY ITINERARY

Bhutan Photography Tours

Fewer countries are more compelling for photography, from the high-mountain vistas of the Himalayas, colorful dzongs (temples), and vibrant tsechus—Bhutan's famous annual festivals. Join us for our unique selection of photography tours escorted by award-winning photographer Mark Tuschman. The three differing itineraries offer a variety of experiences—including a classic Bhutan itinerary, the remote eastern fringes of the country, and the other canvasing three major festivals during the pleasant weather of late September and early October.

Of course, most of travelers are interested in touring privately, and we can arrange any of the activities and sightseeing from these itineraries along with your preferences.

Bhutan Festivals

After 1945, Saigon was the biggest and the most developed city in Asia. Today, it is again a boomtown and one of Asia's most-rapidly-changing cities. As rural Vietnamese immigrate in search of jobs, foreign corporations move in, and as Viet Kieu, or overseas Vietnamese move back to their home country, the city has been transformed.

There are few historic sites left from either the colonial and American periods, but Saigon possesses fantastic cuisine, the best in the country, and the buzz and energy on the streets is unique for not only Vietnam, but much of Asia. There are few more interesting spectacles than sitting at night in a central quarter cafe watching thousands and thousands of Vietnamese cruise by on their motor scooters.

Bhutan Hiking

Once an idylic, beautiful and undeveloped beach cove only a short hop north of Saigon, Nha Trang today is a bustling developed beach resort town popular with package tourists from around the world. Although the town itself is no longer a recommended stop on your visit to Vietnam, there are two exceptional luxury resorts here to linger during longer trips when lounging in the sun by the pool is paramount and other beach destinations of Phu Quoc and Hoi An are inconvenient or experiencing cooler weather.

Bhutan Arts

In the Mekong Delta the mighty Mekong River ends its run from the Himalayas, splitting into multiple branches before emptying sights and experiences for those who care to explore. If you make the effort you'll be amply rewarded. The delta is a region of extraordinary energy and market commerce, with burgeoning markets, the last floating markets in Asia, exotic fruit orchards, and more coconuts than you'd want to contemplate.

The delta is a relaxing place, with good food (seafood!), pleasant river trips, cheap boats, and friendly people. You're never far from water in the delta, and boats in some districts are the main mode of transportation. Intriguing in the backwaters are the floating markets, which have disappeared in other parts of Asia. If you've the, we can organize Mekong Delta trip that travels through the heart of the delta, then by boat along the Mekong to Cambodia's sleepy capital, Phnom Penh. From Phnom Penh, the temples of Angkor are a short 50-minute flight to the north.

Bhutan Photography

Phu Quoc Island, located 25 miles (4o km) off the Cau Mau Peninsula's western coast in the Gulf of Thailand, is the largest island in its archipelago. Lowland evergreen forest, the predominant vegetation on Phu Quoc, still covers much of the island. Little is known about the fauna of Phu Quoc Island. A Dugong population of unknown size has been identified from these waters, though it is clearly under great hunting pressure; at least six individuals were killed in 2002 alone. Leatherback Turtles, Loggerheads, Green Turtles, and Hawksbills have all been seen in this area. Green Turtles were formerly common, but populations are in decline owing to destruction of nest sites, collection of eggs, and over harvesting for food and shells.

Phu Quoc is also known for nuoc mam, a pungent fermented fish sauce. Nearly half the island' s population is dependent on its production. Coral reefs abound off the island, good places for diving and snorkeling, offer a chance to see beautiful tropical fish and other marine life. For nearly a decade, Phu Quoc has been of significant interest to resort developers and the government is beginning to take initial steps for formal development agreements, including the completion of a new airport. The island has the potential to rival popular destinations in the region such as Phuket and Krabi. If you're looking for sunshine, Phu Quoc often has clear skies while the rest of the country may not. Check the weather for Phu Quoc on our Vietnam Weather Page. [More on Phu Quoc]

Bhutan Tigers Nest

No trip to Bhutan would be complete without seeing the iconic Tiger’s Nest, known as Takstang, a monastery perched on a cliff, 900 meters above the ground.

More on Phu Quoc

Bhutan Monastery

Phu Quoc Island, located 25 miles (4o km) off the Cau Mau Peninsula's western coast in the Gulf of Thailand, is the largest island in its archipelago. Lowland evergreen forest, the predominant vegetation on Phu Quoc, still covers much of the island. Little is known about the fauna of Phu Quoc Island. A Dugong population of unknown size has been identified from these waters, though it is clearly under great hunting pressure; at least six individuals were killed in 2002 alone. Leatherback Turtles, Loggerheads, Green Turtles, and Hawksbills have all been seen in this area. Green Turtles were formerly common, but populations are in decline owing to destruction of nest sites, collection of eggs, and over harvesting for food and shells.

Phu Quoc is also known for nuoc mam, a pungent fermented fish sauce. Nearly half the island' s population is dependent on its production. Coral reefs abound off the island, good places for diving and snorkeling, offer a chance to see beautiful tropical fish and other marine life. For nearly a decade, Phu Quoc has been of significant interest to resort developers and the government is beginning to take initial steps for formal development agreements, including the completion of a new airport. The island has the potential to rival popular destinations in the region such as Phuket and Krabi. If you're looking for sunshine, Phu Quoc often has clear skies while the rest of the country may not. Check the weather for Phu Quoc on our Vietnam Weather Page. [More on Phu Quoc]

Amankora Punakha

Phu Quoc Island, located 25 miles (4o km) off the Cau Mau Peninsula's western coast in the Gulf of Thailand, is the largest island in its archipelago. Lowland evergreen forest, the predominant vegetation on Phu Quoc, still covers much of the island. Little is known about the fauna of Phu Quoc Island. A Dugong population of unknown size has been identified from these waters, though it is clearly under great hunting pressure; at least six individuals were killed in 2002 alone. Leatherback Turtles, Loggerheads, Green Turtles, and Hawksbills have all been seen in this area. Green Turtles were formerly common, but populations are in decline owing to destruction of nest sites, collection of eggs, and over harvesting for food and shells.

Phu Quoc is also known for nuoc mam, a pungent fermented fish sauce. Nearly half the island' s population is dependent on its production. Coral reefs abound off the island, good places for diving and snorkeling, offer a chance to see beautiful tropical fish and other marine life. For nearly a decade, Phu Quoc has been of significant interest to resort developers and the government is beginning to take initial steps for formal development agreements, including the completion of a new airport. The island has the potential to rival popular destinations in the region such as Phuket and Krabi. If you're looking for sunshine, Phu Quoc often has clear skies while the rest of the country may not. Check the weather for Phu Quoc on our Vietnam Weather Page. [More on Phu Quoc]

Uma Paro

Phu Quoc Island, located 25 miles (4o km) off the Cau Mau Peninsula's western coast in the Gulf of Thailand, is the largest island in its archipelago. Lowland evergreen forest, the predominant vegetation on Phu Quoc, still covers much of the island. Little is known about the fauna of Phu Quoc Island. A Dugong population of unknown size has been identified from these waters, though it is clearly under great hunting pressure; at least six individuals were killed in 2002 alone. Leatherback Turtles, Loggerheads, Green Turtles, and Hawksbills have all been seen in this area. Green Turtles were formerly common, but populations are in decline owing to destruction of nest sites, collection of eggs, and over harvesting for food and shells.

Phu Quoc is also known for nuoc mam, a pungent fermented fish sauce. Nearly half the island' s population is dependent on its production. Coral reefs abound off the island, good places for diving and snorkeling, offer a chance to see beautiful tropical fish and other marine life. For nearly a decade, Phu Quoc has been of significant interest to resort developers and the government is beginning to take initial steps for formal development agreements, including the completion of a new airport. The island has the potential to rival popular destinations in the region such as Phuket and Krabi. If you're looking for sunshine, Phu Quoc often has clear skies while the rest of the country may not. Check the weather for Phu Quoc on our Vietnam Weather Page. [More on Phu Quoc]

Uma Punakha

Phu Quoc Island, located 25 miles (4o km) off the Cau Mau Peninsula's western coast in the Gulf of Thailand, is the largest island in its archipelago. Lowland evergreen forest, the predominant vegetation on Phu Quoc, still covers much of the island. Little is known about the fauna of Phu Quoc Island. A Dugong population of unknown size has been identified from these waters, though it is clearly under great hunting pressure; at least six individuals were killed in 2002 alone. Leatherback Turtles, Loggerheads, Green Turtles, and Hawksbills have all been seen in this area. Green Turtles were formerly common, but populations are in decline owing to destruction of nest sites, collection of eggs, and over harvesting for food and shells.

Phu Quoc is also known for nuoc mam, a pungent fermented fish sauce. Nearly half the island' s population is dependent on its production. Coral reefs abound off the island, good places for diving and snorkeling, offer a chance to see beautiful tropical fish and other marine life. For nearly a decade, Phu Quoc has been of significant interest to resort developers and the government is beginning to take initial steps for formal development agreements, including the completion of a new airport. The island has the potential to rival popular destinations in the region such as Phuket and Krabi. If you're looking for sunshine, Phu Quoc often has clear skies while the rest of the country may not. Check the weather for Phu Quoc on our Vietnam Weather Page. [More on Phu Quoc]

Six Senses Bhutan

Phu Quoc Island, located 25 miles (4o km) off the Cau Mau Peninsula's western coast in the Gulf of Thailand, is the largest island in its archipelago. Lowland evergreen forest, the predominant vegetation on Phu Quoc, still covers much of the island. Little is known about the fauna of Phu Quoc Island. A Dugong population of unknown size has been identified from these waters, though it is clearly under great hunting pressure; at least six individuals were killed in 2002 alone. Leatherback Turtles, Loggerheads, Green Turtles, and Hawksbills have all been seen in this area. Green Turtles were formerly common, but populations are in decline owing to destruction of nest sites, collection of eggs, and over harvesting for food and shells.

Phu Quoc is also known for nuoc mam, a pungent fermented fish sauce. Nearly half the island' s population is dependent on its production. Coral reefs abound off the island, good places for diving and snorkeling, offer a chance to see beautiful tropical fish and other marine life. For nearly a decade, Phu Quoc has been of significant interest to resort developers and the government is beginning to take initial steps for formal development agreements, including the completion of a new airport. The island has the potential to rival popular destinations in the region such as Phuket and Krabi. If you're looking for sunshine, Phu Quoc often has clear skies while the rest of the country may not. Check the weather for Phu Quoc on our Vietnam Weather Page. [More on Phu Quoc]

Taj Tashi Thimpu

Phu Quoc Island, located 25 miles (4o km) off the Cau Mau Peninsula's western coast in the Gulf of Thailand, is the largest island in its archipelago. Lowland evergreen forest, the predominant vegetation on Phu Quoc, still covers much of the island. Little is known about the fauna of Phu Quoc Island. A Dugong population of unknown size has been identified from these waters, though it is clearly under great hunting pressure; at least six individuals were killed in 2002 alone. Leatherback Turtles, Loggerheads, Green Turtles, and Hawksbills have all been seen in this area. Green Turtles were formerly common, but populations are in decline owing to destruction of nest sites, collection of eggs, and over harvesting for food and shells.

Phu Quoc is also known for nuoc mam, a pungent fermented fish sauce. Nearly half the island' s population is dependent on its production. Coral reefs abound off the island, good places for diving and snorkeling, offer a chance to see beautiful tropical fish and other marine life. For nearly a decade, Phu Quoc has been of significant interest to resort developers and the government is beginning to take initial steps for formal development agreements, including the completion of a new airport. The island has the potential to rival popular destinations in the region such as Phuket and Krabi. If you're looking for sunshine, Phu Quoc often has clear skies while the rest of the country may not. Check the weather for Phu Quoc on our Vietnam Weather Page. [More on Phu Quoc]

Le Meridien Paro

Phu Quoc Island, located 25 miles (4o km) off the Cau Mau Peninsula's western coast in the Gulf of Thailand, is the largest island in its archipelago. Lowland evergreen forest, the predominant vegetation on Phu Quoc, still covers much of the island. Little is known about the fauna of Phu Quoc Island. A Dugong population of unknown size has been identified from these waters, though it is clearly under great hunting pressure; at least six individuals were killed in 2002 alone. Leatherback Turtles, Loggerheads, Green Turtles, and Hawksbills have all been seen in this area. Green Turtles were formerly common, but populations are in decline owing to destruction of nest sites, collection of eggs, and over harvesting for food and shells.

Phu Quoc is also known for nuoc mam, a pungent fermented fish sauce. Nearly half the island' s population is dependent on its production. Coral reefs abound off the island, good places for diving and snorkeling, offer a chance to see beautiful tropical fish and other marine life. For nearly a decade, Phu Quoc has been of significant interest to resort developers and the government is beginning to take initial steps for formal development agreements, including the completion of a new airport. The island has the potential to rival popular destinations in the region such as Phuket and Krabi. If you're looking for sunshine, Phu Quoc often has clear skies while the rest of the country may not. Check the weather for Phu Quoc on our Vietnam Weather Page. [More on Phu Quoc]