The former French hill station of Dalat, once called 'Le Petit Paris', is situated 300 km north of Ho Chi Minh City in the Central Highlands. It is an ideal place to escape from the heat of Vietnam's largest city. Because of its elevation, 1,500 meters above sea level, Dalat's climate is much cooler than that of the surrounding lowlands. This tour is ideal for those people with limited time and can be booked with the option of drive/fly or fly both ways. Likewise, the accommodation can be upgraded to five-star if desired. Sightseeing tours include the art deco summer residence of Vietnam's last emperor, Bao Dai and the village of the Lac minority people, after whom the city is named.

Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City - Dalat
This morning we leave Ho Chi Minh City and head for the hills, literally. The scenic 7 hour drive along Highway 20 to Da Lat will be broken up by stops at some of the tea and coffee plantations. We will stop for lunch at the picturesque Ponguar water falls, about 15km from the highway. Here you may have the opportunity of having your photo taken next to an elephant! Arriving at Da Lat, sometimes known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” by late to mid afternoon, there will be the chance for a short walk to get a feel for this delightful city. This evening we will head out to one of the fine restaurants in town. (L)

Day 2: Dalat
Around 08.00 this morning we leave for a tour of Da Lat and the surrounding areas. We begin with a visit to the Lam Ty Ni pagoda to meet Vien Thuc, a monk who is fluent in six languages. We follow this with a trip to the summer palace of Vietnam's last Emperor, Bao Dai. Bao Dai was forced to abdicate in 1945, shortly after the end of World War II and spent the rest of his life in voluntary exile in France where he was educated as a child. It is believed that he spoke better French than Vietnamese. From here we visit the rather bizarre and very aptly named Crazy House, a brightly painted concrete house which winds itself around trees, mimicking their shapes. It now functions as a guesthouse. Lastly we visit a Lat minority peoples village, where the people live in wooden, thatched huts. This afternoon, for those who are interested we can take the short train ride on the Cremaillere railway to the village of Tri Mat. This evening there will be more fine cuisine at a local restaurant. (B)

Day 3: Dalat
This morning we check out of the hotel and drive back to Ho Chi Minh City. (B)

Joining instructions
You will be picked up from your hotel in Ho Chi Minh. Pick up time will be advised upon confirmation of booking

Transport
Air-conditioned vehicle

What to take
We suggest a small, lightweight daypack for cameras and drinking water etc

Fitness requirements
There are no specific fitness requirements.