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The Facts

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Getting There

United is the only U.S. carrier with direct flights to Vietnam (one a day to Ho Chi Minh City). Vietnam Airlines and Pacific Airlines offer domestic flights.

Getting Around

Base your group in Hanoi and/or Ho Chi Minh City and take short trips, using an outfitter to make travel arrangements and hook you up with guides. Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are linked by an easy hour-and-40-minute flight (about $100).

Where to Stay

Hanoi

Sofitel Metropole Hanoi The grande dame of Vietnam’s colonial hotels. Even if you don’t stay here, stop in for the afternoon chocolate buffet. 15 Ngo Quyen St.; 800/763-4835; sofitel.com; doubles from $375; buffet $15 per person.

De Syloia Hotel Small, pretty, and located in the French Quarter, an easy walk from the center of town. 17A Tran Hung Dao; 84-8/824-5346; desyloia.com; doubles from $80.

Ho Chi Minh City

Caravelle Hotel What the Caravelle lacks in Vietnamese charm it makes up for in amenities, such as a free-form outdoor pool, full spa, and high-speed Internet access. 19 Lam Son Square; 84-8/823-4999; caravellehotel.com; doubles $180.

Hotel Majestic Another of the famous French-era hotels—simpler and less pricey than the Caravelle. 1 Dong Khoi St.; 84-8/829-5517; majesticsaigon.com; doubles from $120.

Park Hyatt Saigon The city’s newest luxury arrival, with a colonial-style facade and a 60-foot pool in landscaped gardens. The in-house Italian restaurant serves wood-fired pizzas. 2 Lam Son Square; 800/233-1234; saigon.park.hyatt.com; doubles from $200.

Can Tho (Mekong Delta)

Victoria Can Tho Resort This lovely riverside hotel is part of a small chain of resorts in out-of-the-way spots in Vietnam and Cambodia. Cai Khe Ward; 84-71/810-111; victoriahotels-asia.com; doubles from $155.

Cat Ba Island (Ha Long Bay)

Sunrise Resort Charming small hotel on a hidden cove about 10 minutes’ walk from town. Cat Co 3 Beach; 84-313/887-360; doubles from $100.

Holiday View Hotel Standard rooms, in a central location. Road 1/4; 84-313/ 887-200; family suites from $50.

Ha Long Bay Cruise The latest trend is to take a day trip from Hanoi to cruise the bay on a luxurious wooden junk (overnight sails are also available). For details, see hand span.com, trailsof indochina.com, or cruiseshalong.com.

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