Best way to spend our time in Vietnam?
 

I will be in Cambodia and Vietnam with a friend Dec. 16-January11. I have never been to either of these countries beffor so really want to maximize the value of our time by seeing the key things. Our Cambodia trip is planned as we are taking the Pandaw Mekong cruise. We arrive in HCMC on December 26 -- and s o basically we have 15 days, with two for getting back to Hanoi, then BKK to fly home. I am thinking we want to do the following:
HCMC: 3.5 days (half day when we get off the boat)
Fly to Danang: visit Hoi An, Hue -- 5 days
Fly to Hanoi: 4 days
Trip to Halong Bay: 2 days
Back to Hanoi to fly to BKK and home

How much time is right for Danang? Hue? Hoi An? Do we need more time in HCMC?
What will the weather be like at this time in the north?
I appreciate any help you can give!! Thanks, Tracy

Here's the weather site I use: www.weatherbase.com Take a look at each city you are visiting.

I've looked at the Pandaw Mekong cruise, but can't remember how much time they give you in Siem Reap. It takes three full days just to see the major temples, so do some research and see how much time you think you'll need. The best book on the temples is Dawn Rooney's Angkor. You are also welcome to look at our photos of Angkor (there are also photos of Hanoi) at www.marlandc.com.

Overall, I think your plan is fine. Some people love Hoi An, some consider it "too touristy". Danang doesn't have a lot to do/see other than the Cham Museum and a beach resort. Hue has the tombs and lots of history. So how long to stay depends on your interests.

Thanks, Kathie...I was able to change my (miles-based) flight out to give us three entire days in SR since everyone has told me that's the minimum. The Pandaw cruise really doesn't do any of temples unless you sign up for their pre-cruise tour. We can do it all on our own I think...well with a guide from hotel perhaps.

Great! The temples at Angkor are truly one of the wonders of the world. I agree you shouldn't use a pre-cruise tour. You'll need a car and driver, which your hotel can arrange. Consider whether you want a guide or not. You can easily hire a guide once you are in Siem Reap.

Just returned from a wonderful trip through Vietnam with Imaginative Tours....I would certainly plan on spending more of your 5 days between Hoi An and Hue and just pass through Danang. While in Hoi An do not miss the very early morning fish market...especially if you want some very interesting photos. Also some very good French Restaurants there. While in Hanoi take in an early morning stroll around the lake watching all of the Vietnamese out for their morning excercise. Have you checked the dates for TET in Vietnam? One last word of advice....learn for the locals as to how to get across the street in HCMC. That is an adventure in itself!
Have a wonderful trip you will truly enjoy Vietnam.

Thanks for the info. We are just passing through Danang to see the Cham Museum, then on to Hue. Love the suggestions re: fish market, etc. Should be fun!