11 Day Wellness and Cultural Exploration Retreat in Vietnam

Upon arrival in Hanoi, visit the Literature Temple, is a historic site in Hanoi that was originally built in 1070 to honor Confucius and later became Vietnam’s first national university. The temple is a well-preserved example of traditional Vietnamese architecture and is dedicated to scholars and sages. Then visit Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” is a former French colonial prison that was later used by the North Vietnamese government to detain American prisoners of war during the Vietnam War. Enjoy a welcome dinner, which includes a briefing for you about the trip, with a focus on wellness and culture. In the evening, experience a traditional Water Puppet show.

Start the day with a one-hour yoga session with local practitioners. Followed by a walking breakfast tour, lasting two hours, which includes tasting special Phở Hanoi and traditional coffee in the oldest shop in the Old Quarter. In the afternoon, join a Hatha and Mindful yoga flow session at the New Mantra studio, expect to experience a range of physical and mental benefits. Hatha yoga is a traditional form of yoga that focuses on physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. Sightseeing around Ho Tay and visit Quan Thanh Temple, home to the most unique bronze statue in the world.

Begin your day with a nourishing breakfast at the hotel, setting the tone for an energizing journey ahead. Join us for an invigorating Hatha yoga session at our exclusive studio, where expert instructors guide you through harmonious poses, fostering strength, flexibility, and inner tranquility. Then embark on a cultural exploration as we visit one of Hanoi’s most renowned galleries or art museums. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Vietnamese art and history, gaining profound insights into the country’s vibrant cultural heritage. Lunch time: Savor the flavors of Hanoi at La Vong Grilled Fish (Chả cá La Vọng), a local culinary gem. Let your taste buds revel in the unique tastes of this traditional dish, a true embodiment of Hanoi’s culinary legacy. Venture into the enchanting Hanoi countryside for a leisurely cycling expedition. Pedal through picturesque landscapes, quaint villages, and lush greenery, absorbing the rhythm of the vibrant surroundings.

After breakfast, leave for Ha Long Bay. Upon boarding, you will be warmly welcomed by the friendly staff and shown to your comfortable cabin. After settling in, you will be treated to a delicious lunch featuring a variety of Vietnamese and international dishes as the boat begins to cruise through the stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters of Ha Long Bay. As you enjoy your meal, you can take in the breathtaking scenery from the sundeck or the panoramic windows of the dining area. The towering limestone formations and tranquil waters create a truly magical atmosphere that will leave you in awe. After lunch, the cruise will continue to Ti Top beach, where you can relax on the pristine white sands, swim in the refreshing waters, or hike to the top of the island for panoramic views of the bay. This is the perfect opportunity to soak up the natural beauty of Ha Long Bay and take some memorable photos.

In the late afternoon, you will have the chance to participate in a cooking class led by the cruise’s talented chef. You will learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes using fresh ingredients and traditional techniques. This hands-on experience will give you a deeper appreciation for the local cuisine and culture.

Embark on a unique day tour that unfolds with a traditional Taichi session, offering participants not only relaxation but also a chance to connect with the local culture. Following this, the journey continues with a mesmerizing visit to either Thien Cung or Dau Go cave, where unique rock formations and sunlight create a breathtaking natural tableau.

After a morning filled with energy, you will indulge in a delicious brunch, savoring the unique local flavors to appreciate the distinctive taste of the region’s cuisine. The next destination is Yen Tu Legacy, where You will experience a fantastic cable car ride, enjoying panoramic views from a remarkable height. At Yen Tu Legacy, You will engage in Eye Yoga and Paddle Board Yoga sessions, providing a unique relaxation experience amidst the serene natural surroundings. In the evening, You can choose to participate in a Harmony Meditation, immersing themselves in the tranquil atmosphere and aligning with the harmony of nature. With a harmonious blend of physical activity, relaxation, and cultural exploration, this day tour is not just a sports excursion but also a journey seeking balance and immersion in nature at one of the most unique destinations.

The day will begin with a relaxing and rejuvenating session of Yin yoga, a slow-paced style of yoga that focuses on holding poses for longer periods of time to stretch and target the connective tissues in the body. This practice is designed to help release tension and promote relaxation, making it the perfect way to start the day.

Following the Yin yoga session, You will have the opportunity to participate in a Singing Bowl Meditation workshop. This ancient practice involves the use of singing bowls, which are metal bowls that produce a soothing and calming sound when struck or played. The workshop will teach us how to use the bowls to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance their overall sense of well-being.

In the afternoon, You will engage in Eye yoga, a series of exercises designed to improve vision and eye health. This will be followed by a Bosu-Ball Work-out, a fun and challenging workout that incorporates the use of a Bosu ball, a half-sphere exercise ball that can be used for a variety of exercises to improve balance, strength, and flexibility.

After your breakfast at hotel, your journey unfolds with a serene Yin yoga session, allowing you to connect mind and body amidst the tranquil surroundings. This mindful start sets the tone for a day filled with artistic endeavors and traditional craftsmanship.

Venturing into the heart of cultural heritage, you’ll partake in the ancient art of Dong Ho print making, a centuries-old Vietnamese craft. Dive into the intricate world of this traditional woodblock printing technique, where skilled artisans intricately carve wooden blocks to create vibrant and meaningful prints. Immerse yourself in the storytelling aspect of Dong Ho prints, each piece narrating tales of rural life, folklore, and cultural symbolism. Engage with the artists, gaining insight into their techniques and the historical significance of this unique art form.

Following this artistic venture, your journey leads to the captivating realm of conical hat making. Delve into the meticulous process of crafting these iconic Vietnamese hats, known as “non la.” Learn the art of weaving palm leaves into intricate patterns, transforming them into functional and stylish accessories that shield from both sun and rain. As you participate in this hands-on experience, absorb the cultural significance of the conical hat, a symbol deeply woven into the fabric of Vietnamese tradition.

Embarking on a captivating journey from Hanoi to Hoi An, your adventure begins as you touch down at Danang Airport, seamlessly transitioning through a domestic flight. The first stop on your cultural odyssey is the renowned Cham Museum, a treasure trove of Cham civilization artifacts. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Cham people, exploring intricate sculptures, pottery, and artifacts that unveil the fascinating history of this ancient culture.

As the morning unfolds, indulge your taste buds at Bep Quan restaurant, a culinary haven where traditional Vietnamese flavors come to life. Savor a delectable lunch, relishing the unique blend of spices and aromas that define Vietnamese cuisine.

After this culinary interlude, your journey continues to the enchanting town of Hoi An. Steeped in history, this UNESCO World Heritage site beckons you to discover its ancient charm. Embark on a walking city tour, wandering through narrow streets adorned with well-preserved architecture from different eras. Admire the fusion of influences, from Chinese and Japanese to French colonial, that have shaped Hoi An into the cultural gem it is today.

Embarking on a day of holistic well-being and cultural exploration, your morning begins with a rejuvenating Hatha Yoga class led by a seasoned master. Immerse yourself in the ancient art of Hatha Yoga, allowing the expert guidance to deepen your practice and foster a sense of tranquility. Through a series of postures, breathwork, and meditation, connect with the essence of this mindful discipline, nurturing both body and soul under the tutelage of a seasoned yoga master.

As the sun arcs across the sky, the afternoon unfolds with a journey to the picturesque Tra Que Vegetable Village. Here, amidst lush fields and vibrant greenery, you’ll discover the secrets of Vietnamese agriculture. Engage in the daily life of local farmers, learning about traditional farming methods and the cultivation of fresh, organic produce.

Embarking on a flavorful morning adventure, immerse yourself in the vibrant street food scene of Hoi An with a breakfast tour designed to tantalize your taste buds. From steaming bowls of Cao Lau, a Hoi An specialty, to savory Banh Mi sandwiches and aromatic bowls of Pho, each bite offers a delectable journey into the heart of Vietnamese gastronomy.

Having indulged in the diverse array of morning delights, your journey continues to the ancient marvel of My Son Holy Land. Explore the archaeological wonders of this UNESCO World Heritage site, where centuries-old temples and mystical ruins stand testament to the once-thriving Champa civilization. Marvel at the intricate carvings and the spiritual ambiance that permeates the air, as you uncover the historical and cultural significance of My Son.

Returning to Hoi An, transition to a leisurely boat ride, allowing the serene waters to guide you back to the heart of the town. As you navigate the river, absorb the scenic beauty and contemplate the cultural riches discovered throughout the day.

Commencing the day with a nourishing breakfast, embrace the serene start before engaging in the final Hatha Yoga class, bidding a tranquil farewell to the mindful practices that have woven through your journey.

Depart with a sense of fulfillment, knowing that your journey has been a seamless blend of cultural exploration, culinary delights, and mindful practices. As you soar into the skies from Danang Airport, take a moment to appreciate the transformative experiences that have colored your time in this captivating corner of Vietnam.