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Hanoi, Vietnam
Start in the atmospheric Old Quarter, famous for its narrow streets and traditional tube houses. Don't miss an Egg Coffee at Café Giang and a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake. Store your large luggage here before heading into the mountains.
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Sapa, Vietnam
Take the cable car up Fansipan — Vietnam's highest peak — for the giant Buddha and sweeping views above the clouds. Trek through the stunning Muong Hoa Valley along terraced rice fields with a local guide. Don't miss the spectacular Rong May Glass Bridge on the O Quy Ho Pass.
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Ba Be National Park, Vietnam
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Cao Bang, Vietnam
Cao Bang is the perfect base for visiting the magnificent Ban Gioc Waterfall, one of the largest waterfalls in Asia straddling the Chinese border. Ride a bamboo raft right up to the thundering cascade and explore the nearby Nguom Ngao cave system. The drive here from Meo Vac is a stunning off-the-beaten-path road trip.
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Ninh Binh, Vietnam
Stay in the Tam Coc area for the best atmosphere among the rice paddies and karst peaks. Climb Mua Cave at dawn for panoramic views, then take a 3-hour rowing boat trip through the UNESCO-listed Trang An Landscape Complex. Book a bungalow or homestay directly around Tam Coc rather than in Ninh Binh city.
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Cat Ba Island, Vietnam
Cat Ba Island is the gateway to the tranquil Lan Ha Bay, a quieter and equally stunning alternative to Ha Long Bay. Hike to Ngu Lam Peak in Cat Ba National Park for incredible views before boarding a traditional junk boat for an overnight cruise with kayaking. Ben Beo Harbour is the main departure point for bay cruises.
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Hanoi, Vietnam
Return to Hanoi for a relaxed final stretch — collect your stored luggage and soak up the city at your own pace. Devour a proper bowl of Bun Cha in the Old Quarter and browse for souvenirs around Hang Gai street. The early-morning flight on October 17th means a late-night taxi to the airport, so keep the last evening low-key.