Enjoy a morning walk to Hoan Kiem Lake (Lake of the Restored Sword) to experience early morning Hanoi. Legend has it that in the mid 15th century, the gods provided the Emperor Le Thai To a magical sword to defeat the Ming dynasty Chinese invaders. Following the victory, the emperor was boating on the lake when a giant tortoise reared up and took the sword, returning it to its rightful owners.
After an energetic start, enjoy a traditional local breakfast - Pho - followed by a Vietnamese coffee at a roof top cafe in Hanoi Old Quarter overlooking the Hoan Kiem Lake.
The last stop is a family run Vietnamese restaurant to join a cooking class and learn the finer points of authentic Vietnamese cuisine. The cooking class includes a walk to Hang Be food market to learn about Vietnamese ingredients. Once back at the restaurant you will learn how to cook several Vietnamese dishes. It is then time to relax and feast on your Vietnamese culinary creations.
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Experience Hanoi at Sunrise by enjoying a morning walk to Hoan Kiem Lake. Legend has it that in the mid 15th century the gods provided the Emperor Le Thai To a magical sword to defeat the Ming dynasty Chinese invaders. Following the victory the emperor was boating on the lake when a giant tortoise reared up and took the sword, returning it to its rightful owners. Today the lake is a gathering place for the residence of Hanoi doing their morning exercise.
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After a energetic start, enjoy a traditional local breakfast or “Pho” (noodle soup), followed by Vietnamese coffee at a roof top café in Hanoi’s Old Quarter overlooking the Hoan Kiem Lake.
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Interact with the locals as they get on with their daily business at Hang Be market – the most popular market in Hanoi. Enter the food market on the first floor, and walk along its narrow aisles to see the food on sale. Most of the sea food is sold dry. On the second floor there is a garment market of not much interest. Next to the market there are food stalls open till midnight.
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Join a cooking class and learn how to cook authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
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Lunch at a local family run Vietnamese restaurant
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At the end of the trip, tourists are free to continue exploring the area or the tour guide will assist you in getting a taxi back to your hotel.
Inclusions
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Transport by air-conditioned minivan
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Hotel drop off (selected hotels only)
Exclusions
Activity suggestions
Preparations
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Cash in hand for some souvenirs
Most suitable for
Traveling in a small group, maximum 12 passengers, this tour allows for a unique and intimate experience.
Inappropriate for
Children under 6 years old who are not able to take part in the cooking class.