Zen & Fitness Retreat | 9 days, 8 nights | 6-12 people | Hanoi

Description

The Zen & Fitness Retreat is a 9-day, 8-night journey through Vietnam, designed to harmonize wellness, mindfulness, and cultural exploration. This immersive experience takes you from the bustling streets of Hanoi to the breathtaking landscapes of Ha Long Bay, the spiritual sanctuary of Yen Tu Mountain, and the serene waterways of Can Tho in the Mekong Delta.

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival

Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, you will be transferred to your hotel in the Old Quarter for check-in. This day offers free time to relax or explore the historic Old Quarter. You may choose to enjoy a traditional Vietnamese coffee or the famous egg coffee at a local café. In the evening, indulge in authentic Vietnamese cuisine at a local restaurant.

Meals Plan: Dinner
Accommodation: 4* Boutique Hotel, Old Quarter

Day 2: Bat Trang Pottery Village or The Imperial Citadel of Thăng Long

The morning begins with a visit to Bat Trang, a renowned traditional pottery village located about 30 minutes from Hanoi. You will participate in a pottery-making workshop and gain insights into the history of this craft. The tour also includes exploring the local market, where you can shop for unique ceramic souvenirs. In the afternoon, you will return to Hanoi.

Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 4* Boutique Hotel, Old Quarter

Day 3: Ha Long Bay Day Tour

An early breakfast is followed by a departure for Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, approximately 2.5 hours from Hanoi. You will board a day cruise to explore the breathtaking limestone karsts and emerald waters, visiting iconic sites such as Thien Cung Cave or Sung Sot Cave. A delicious lunch will be served on the cruise. After disembarking, you will travel to Yen Tu Mountain for check-in at the resort.

Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Yen Tu Legacy

Day 4: Yen Tu Hiking

The day begins with a rejuvenating yoga session, followed by a healthy breakfast. A guided hike will take you through the serene landscapes of Yen Tu Mountain, a site of great spiritual significance in Vietnam. You will visit Hoa Yen Pagoda and Dong Pagoda at the summit while learning about Zen Buddhism's deep roots dating back to the 13th century. The journey includes exploring a traditional herbal route, followed by a descent where you can immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance. The experience is completed with a soothing herbal bath and traditional spa treatment.

The serene atmosphere of Yen Tu Mountain provides a perfect setting for contemplation and meditation, attracting Buddhist pilgrims and spiritual seekers. Additional wellness sessions available at Yen Tu Legacy include Sound Bowl Healing and Aroma Meditation.

Meals Plan: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Yen Tu Legacy

Day 5: Hanoi Departure – Can Tho (Mekong Delta)

After checking out, you will be transferred to Noi Bai International Airport for a domestic flight to Can Tho in the Mekong Delta, which takes approximately two hours. Upon arrival, you will check in at Mekong Legacy Resort, an oasis on the river. In the late afternoon, an introductory session on Pilates and reformer equipment will take place, followed by a gentle evening Pilates session focusing on breathing and alignment.

Meals Plan: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Mekong Legacy Resort

Day 6: Can Tho – Pilates

The day starts early with a visit to Phong Dien Floating Market, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of local merchants trading goods directly from their boats on the river. Throughout the day, two Pilates sessions will be conducted, focusing on core strength and stability, allowing for free time in between to explore or relax.

Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Mekong Legacy Resort

Day 7: Can Tho – Pilates

The morning begins with a reformer Pilates class concentrating on lower body toning and alignment. A workshop will follow, focusing on how Pilates improves hip and leg strength. The afternoon offers free time to enjoy spa treatments, relax, or explore the surrounding island on a bicycle. The day concludes with an afternoon Pilates session targeting the legs, glutes, and hips.

Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Mekong Legacy Resort

Day 8: Can Tho – Ho Chi Minh City

The morning starts with a reformer Pilates class designed to enhance upper body strength and flexibility. After checking out, you will travel to a lush fruit garden in the Mekong Delta, where you will participate in an interactive cooking class and enjoy lunch in a beautiful natural setting. A boat rowing challenge using a traditional wooden sampan boat adds an adventurous touch to the experience. By evening, you will arrive in Ho Chi Minh City and check in at the 4-star Sai Gon Prince Hotel.

Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Sai Gon Prince Hotel

Day 9: Departure from Ho Chi Minh City

Enjoy a free morning to explore the landscape of Ho Chi Minh City, including Nguyen Hue Boulevard, the Sai Gon River, and the historic City Hall, all located just in front of the hotel. Later, transfer to Tan San Nhat International Airport for departure.

Meals Plan: Breakfast

Price

The cost of the retreat is USD 2,880 per person for shared accommodation. Single occupancy is available upon request.

Inclusions

8 nights’ accommodation in hotels and resorts on a twin/double-sharing basis
Daily breakfast, with lunches and dinners as specified in the itinerary
Private air-conditioned transportation for all transfers and tours
Pottery workshop experience in Bat Trang
Ha Long Bay day cruise
Guided hiking tour at Yen Tu Mountain
Private Pilates sessions
Admission to all listed attractions and activities
English-speaking guide throughout the tour
Domestic airfare from Hanoi to Can Tho
Visa application fees for Vietnam entry

Exclusions

International airfare to/from Vietnam
Meals not specified in the itinerary
Personal travel insurance (highly recommended)
Laundry, telephone calls, beverages, tips, and personal expenses
Activities not mentioned in the inclusions