Land of dragons

With summer retreating and autumn cool-footing it right behind, only with a promise of falling leaves and bonfires – Trips Worldwide suggests a way to prolong the heat with a waft of fiery breath from the land of dragons – Vietnam and Singapore, combining legend, spectacular landscapes, superb accommodation, excellent cuisine and numerous cultural highlights.

Trips Worldwide’s 14-day Vietnam & Singapore Tour departs daily from London – best time to go – now!

From Singapore, transfer by air to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) in southern Vietnam, and the colonial Hotel Majestic Saigon, overlooking the Saigon River. Once called ‘Pearl of the Far East’, Saigon was an important trading centre for merchants plying the Saigon River. Here, spend two nights exploring the bustling centre of the south and visiting local sites including the 75-mile long tunnel complex of Cu Chi.

Next, fly to Denang for a tranquil stay at Life Resort Hoi An before continuing north to Hue, once the imperial capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, known for its monuments and architecture. Enjoy visits to Imperial Citadel, Dong Ba market and a cruise on the Perfume River. On to the country’s capital, Hanoi for a two-night stay at Sunway Hanoi. After exploring the city, head to spectacular Halong Bay (Bay of Descending Dragons), UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring thousands of limestone karsts and isles.

Local legend recalls that the gods sent a family of dragons to help defend the land from Chinese invaders. They spat out jewels and jade which turned into the islands and islets dotting the bay, linking together to form a great protective wall. An overnight luxury cruise aboard a traditional wooden Huong Hai Junk boat allows for time to take in the magnificent views of the unique landscape and mythical creatures!

Return to Singapore for the finale of the holiday at the stylish Rendezvous Hotel. From a convenient base in the centre of Singapore’s cultural district, time may be spent visiting the city’s museums, its famous zoo or Orchard Road’s boutiques and restaurants, before homeward flights next day.

Holidays cost from £1,795 p/p including international and domestic flights, pre-paid taxes, transfers, hotel accommodation, most meals and expertly guided tours.

For more information, log on to Tripsworldwide.co.uk.