This is my second trip with Exodus and I could not be more pleased. Already planning my third. The Iguazu Falls extension was over the top fun! The tour leaders that Exodus works with were all exceptional. Pamela with Aqua Grandes in Iguazu. In Patagonia on my lesser hikes, both Mathieus and Jorge were knowledgeable about wildlife – and we saw a lot! Condor (from afar), puma (up close), emus, rheas, guanacos, and plants and flowers and orchids, etc. SUPPORTIVE both literally and figuratively moving at my speed and letting me figure out the terrain.
Cultural Holidays in Vietnam
Vietnam Culture Holidays
Best Cultural Experiences in Vietnam
Hanoi City Tour: Vietnam’s cultural capital and historic heart, Hanoi, blends ancient architecture with modern-day culture, and inside the vibrant Old Quarter you’ll see colonial influences that have shaped the city. Walk among the centuries-old buildings that line the narrow streets and see the historic temples and landmarks that are dotted around the city, from the Temple of Literature and Hoa Lo Prison to the impressive Presidential Palace. Hoa Lo Prison once housed American prisoners of war during the Vietnam War but is now home to memorabilia and a French guillotine that tell of Vietnam’s struggles in the 1950s. As you explore the city further, your senses are awakened by the hum of scooters zipping through the streets, the sound of haggling market traders and the seductive aromas of Vietnamese street foods.
Walking Tour of Hoi An: Formerly a major port for traders in the 16th-century, Hoi An is a significant town that takes you on a trip into Vietnam’s rich past. This fascinating outdoor museum lies along the river and its Old Town is brimming with centuries-old merchant’s houses, Chinese temples and laid-back bars. Immerse yourself in Hoi An’s intoxicating atmosphere as you wander though the riverside market where silk garments and large bowls of fragrant spices spill out from the stalls. The iconic Japanese bridge, Quan Thang House and colourful river boats make Hoi An one of the most photogenic destinations in Vietnam.
Cruise the Mekong Delta: Experience a much slower pace as you venture into the land of the Mekong Delta. Known as the ‘rice bowl’, the Mekong is the lifeblood and lungs of Vietnam with its network of canals, rivers and streams that meander between traditional towns and villages. As you cruise along its waterways, you’ll pass boats weighed down with fruits, sugar cane and coconuts and you might even spot a buffalo or two bathing in the rice paddies. If you want to experience authentic Vietnamese culture, head to Cai Rang floating market or stop off at one of the local cottage industries where you can watch coconut candy and rice paper being made.
Explore Ho Chi Minh City: Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is the economic hub of Vietnam. Its imposing cityscape and pulsating streets fuse together ancient and modern cultures quite spectacularly. A scooter tour of the city is a fun way to explore and visit some of the main sights such as Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon Opera House and the Central Post Office but if you want to delve deeper into the past, the War Remnants Museum lets you discover the darker side of Saigon. Walking through the city at night is undeniably atmospheric with its noisy markets and street food stalls which tempt you with local delicacies like bánh xèo (savour pancakes) and com tấm (broken rice).
Kathryn Warmus Patagonian Highlights
James Gannon Patagonian HighlightsExploring the dramatic, captivating and beautiful Patagonian landscape in two short weeks. The weather ranged from windy, cold, to warm and sunny all in the same day. For those of you who are into photography you’re in for a treat.
Did I tell you about the wind?
Keryn Vella Cycle the Back Roads of Sri LankaA very diverse bunch of people came together to experience the classic ‘cultural triangle’ and much more – but in a more in-depth way. Apart from the lovely people we encountered on our travels, the wildlife was one of my favourite aspects. My absolute favourite moment was when a monkey dropped from a tree onto our ‘snacks’ table and made off with one of the spicy biscuits (good choice!) – chaos/hilarity ensued!
Some of the riding days were tough – I hadn’t got as much training in as I had planned – but the back-up crew were always there to help! A few of the rides (particularly the big one) are on busy roads so would recommend a ‘commuter mask’ if your lungs are sensitive. The fumes from the buses can get a bit much. Although the people travelling on them, hanging out the doors and windows shouting encouragement, almost made up for it!
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