Budget-Friendly Adventure in Vietnam for MBA Friends

Day 1: Explore Ho Chi Minh

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on March 17, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pho 2000

Start your day with a traditional Pho breakfast at Pho 2000, famous for its delicious broth and local flavors. It's a budget-friendly eatery that offers a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
USD5, 1 hour

9:30AM

War Remnants Museum

Visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about Vietnam's tumultuous history. The exhibits are both informative and eye-opening, perfect for a reflective exploration.
USD2, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ben Thanh Market

Enjoy a variety of street food options at Ben Thanh Market, where you can try local favorites like banh mi and fresh spring rolls. It's an affordable way to get a real taste of Vietnam.
USD7, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Nguyen Hue Walking Street

Stroll through Nguyen Hue Walking Street, a vibrant area perfect for people-watching and taking photos. Don't miss the Saigon Opera House for a beautiful backdrop.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Bitexco Financial Tower

Visit the Bitexco Financial Tower and head up to the Sky Deck for breathtaking views of the city. It’s a fantastic spot to appreciate Ho Chi Minh City from above.
USD10, 1-1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Com Nieu Sai Gon

Enjoy a unique dining experience at Com Nieu Sai Gon, known for its traditional clay pot rice and casual atmosphere. Perfect for an authentic Vietnamese dining experience.
USD12, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Mekong Delta Excursion

Mekong Delta, Vietnam on March 18, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Have a hearty breakfast at your hotel to prepare for a day of adventure in the Mekong Delta. A good meal will keep your energy levels up.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

8:30AM

Mekong Delta Tour

Join a group tour to the Mekong Delta where you'll explore floating markets, local villages, and indulge in tropical fruit tasting. It's an affordable way to experience the local culture.
USD15, 6 hours

3:00PM

Return to Ho Chi Minh City

Head back to Ho Chi Minh City after a scenic day in the delta. The return trip offers beautiful views of the landscape.
Included in tour cost, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Rest and Freshen Up

Return to your accommodation to relax and freshen up after a long day outdoors.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Banh Xeo 46A

Try the local specialty Banh Xeo (Vietnamese pancakes) at Banh Xeo 46A for a satisfying meal to end your day. It’s flavorful and budget-friendly.
USD8, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Day in Hoi An

Hoi An, Vietnam on March 19, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe 43

Start your morning with a delicious breakfast at Cafe 43, featuring fresh coffee and local dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
USD6, 1 hour

8:30AM

Flight to Da Nang

Catch a short flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang. This is the quickest way to reach Hoi An for the next part of your adventure.
USD30, 1 hour

10:30AM

Transfer to Hoi An

Once you arrive in Da Nang, take a taxi or shuttle to Hoi An, which is a beautiful coastal town known for its well-preserved Ancient Town.
USD10, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Streets Restaurant

Dine at Streets Restaurant, known for its local dishes and mission to train marginalized youth. Not just tasty, but also a smart choice for supporting local communities.
USD10, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Ancient Town

Discover the charming streets of Hoi An's Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its historic architecture and vibrant markets.
USD5 (entrance fee), 2 hours

4:00PM

Tailoring Shop Visit

Visit a local tailoring shop, as Hoi An is famous for custom clothing. This is a unique experience for the group to buy personalized garments.
Variable, 1-2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Mango Mango

End your day enjoying fusion Vietnamese cuisine at Mango Mango, where you can experience a modern twist on traditional dishes.
USD15, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Exploration in Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam on March 20, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Giang

Visit Cafe Giang for a traditional Vietnamese coffee and egg coffee, a must-try signature drink that blends coffee with egg yolk for a creamy treat.
USD4, 1 hour

8:30AM

Flight to Hanoi

Take a morning flight from Da Nang to Hanoi, that allows you to cover the distance quickly and enjoy your day in the capital.
USD30, 1 hour

10:30AM

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, an important historical site in Vietnam, where you'll learn about the country's revolutionary leader.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Enjoy a well-known local dish of Bun Cha (grilled pork with noodles) at Bun Cha Huong Lien, famous for being Anthony Bourdain’s favorite restaurant.
USD6, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Old Quarter Exploration

Wander through Hanoi's Old Quarter, a bustling area filled with shops, cafes, and vendors selling local delicacies. It's a great way to immerse yourself in local life.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Water Puppet Show

Experience a traditional Vietnamese Water Puppet Show, which is a unique cultural experience that combines art and story-telling.
USD4, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Cha Ca Thang Long

Savor a different kind of Vietnamese dish with fish cooked with turmeric and dill at Cha Ca Thang Long, a local favorite with a homey vibe.
USD10, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Ha Long Bay Adventure

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam on March 21, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at your hotel before heading out to experience Ha Long Bay, famous for its emerald waters and limestone islands.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

8:30AM

Departure to Ha Long Bay

Take a bus to Ha Long Bay to start your day cruise. Witness the stunning landscapes as you approach this UNESCO World Heritage site.
USD15, 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Ha Long Bay Cruise

Enjoy a scenic cruise around Ha Long Bay, taking in the breathtaking views while you explore the islands and caves in the area. Most tours include lunch onboard.
USD25 (includes lunch), 4 hours

3:30PM

Return to Hanoi

Head back to Hanoi after an unforgettable day on the water, giving you time to reflect on your experiences.
Included in tour cost, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Bun Bo Nam Bo

Conclude your trip with dinner at Bun Bo Nam Bo, known for its noodle salad with beef that is a perfect way to end your adventure in Vietnam.
USD8, 1.5 hours
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