Routes can change subject to client’s interest
Transfer to Hue Airport after breakfast for the short flight to dynamic Ho Chi Minh City, still called Saigon by the locals.
Meet with a local guide and set off on a half day tour in Ho Chi Minh City. Start with a visit to the city’s most iconic building: Reunification Hall. Formerly called the Presidential Palace, images of the building were seen around the world on 30 April 1975 when tanks stormed the gates as Saigon fell to the North Vietnamese. Hear the echoes of time while walking through this historic downtown site.
Then take a stroll to Ho Chi Minh City’s colonial quarter, walking past scenes of everyday life on the way. Admire the beautiful architecture of the Opera House, City Hall, the old Saigon Post Office, Hear about the glory days of French Indochina and how that era continues to influence aspects of modern Vietnamese culture. Step inside the War Remnants Museum for an insightful, yet sombre, look into Vietnam’s military history. See exhibitions displaying imagery from the French and American wars, learning more about the country’s struggle for independence.
Then step off the tourist trail for one last visit on this Ho Chi Minh City tour at a Vietnamese coffee shop, sit down and taste the coffee like locals. After this insightful visit, return to the hotel.
This early evening discover the AO Show in Ho Chi Minh City, a modern cultural show with a Vietnamese twist. Take a walk with the guide from the hotel to The Municipal Theatre of Ho Chi Minh City, also known as the Saigon Opera House. Built in 1898 by the French architect Ferret Eugene, and restored in 1998 on the tri-centenary of the founding of Saigon, this landmark building has witnessed countless important events in the city’s turbulent history and is now certified as a ‘National Relic’.
Enjoy the show held in this beautiful colonial building, which is performed by a group of enthusiastic local artists and dancers. The hour long ‘AO show’ embraces different elements of performance art with a Vietnamese touch. This is an unforgettable show displaying the finest Vietnamese heritage and culture through contemporary choreography and traditional music. Be amazed by the stunning blend of acrobatic acts, contemporary dance and cirque approach. The evening ends with a stroll back to the hotel accompanied by the guide. (Note that surcharge will apply if vehicle transfer is needed).
Important Note:
Performances of the ‘AO Show’ are usually scheduled 4-5 nights per week, so please check with our travel consultant for the show’s current schedule. On some evenings an alternate performance by the same group, titled ‘The Mist’ will be held instead. The Mist is focused more on contemporary dance aspects and less on the cirque aspects of the AO Show.
Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
Note: History Museum is closed on Mondays.