| Vietnam's
history is rich, diverse and fascinating - it's inhabitants
date back over 2 millenia. The country has been shaped
by it's colonial masters and invaders - China, Mongolia,
the Khmers, France and America to become the intriguing
country it is now |
| The
architecture and cuisine of Vietnam have been strongly
influenced by the Chinese and French invaders. The French
architecture is most obvious in the old quarter, which
is best seen by taking a cyclo tour for an hour or so. |
| Having
been colonized for over 2,000 years, the Vietnamese longed
for independence and this finally came in 1975. Ho Chi
Minh (Uncle Ho) was integral in developing Vietnam towards
full independence. |
| No
trip to Vietnam would be complete without watching a water
puppets show. |
| The
ancient art of water puppetry (roi nuoc) depicts
pastoral scenes and legends accompanied by a band playing
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| Halong
Bay (above) and Hoi An |
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wooden
flutes, gongs, cylindrical drums, bamboo xylophones
and the dan bau and is at least 1000 years
old. |
|
There
is no better way to feed the soul than to visit the
many beautiful museums and temples in Vietnam. In Hanoi
visit One Pillar Pagoda that was inspired by a dream
of King Ly Thai Tong. Marvel at the diversity of hill
tribe cultures in the Museum of Ethnology and enjoy
the Fine Arts Museum that has exhibits from Pre History
to modern day art. |
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| Hoi
An in Central Vietnam is a living museum that oozes charm
and culture every where you look. Many of Hoi An's buildings
date back a couple of centuries and the town serves as
a museum piece to Vietnamese history. It is here that
silk is produced and tailors abound |
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| This
is a tour with a strong emphasis on food, culture and
enjoyment - explore with us everything Vietnam can offer
the travelling gourmet. |
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- Escorted
by Bev Sprague of Amano Cooking School and Mary Elgar
from Mondo Travel.
- Airfares
and taxes
- Luxury
hotels in both Hanoi and Hoi An
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- All
meals in unique restaurants
- Three
half day hands-on cooking lessons in Hanoi and Hoi
An
- Overnight
tour of Halong Bay in a deluxe junk
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- Full
day city tour of Hanoi and half day walking tour of
Hoi An
- Unique
tours to Phu Bo village, My Son Champa ruins and Tra
Que farm experience.
- Legendary
Hoi An lantern night
- Water
puppets show Hanoi
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