La Boulangerie Moderne de Montreal nov 21

 Linking up with Marg at The Intrepid Reader

Weekend Coffee Share
Sunday Salon

WE ARE TRAVELLING UNTIL DEC 22, I WILL LINK UP IF POSSIBLE. BUT I EXPECT LIMITED INTERNET/WI-FI.

COMPLEX DESJARDINS MONTREAL QC

Last Week's Post Pigeon Cafe

Last Year's Post Tim Horton's HHOF

Five Years Ago     Allan Gardens Toronto I wasn't doing weekly recaps back then.

SATURDAY

We are still organizing our trip. I booked our airport transfers for Tokyo. We checked out our Air Canada flights and adjusted some seating.

I'm guess I'm not normal!

SUNDAY

We went to brunch with my cousin and her wife at Capra's, owned by local Canadian celebrity chef, Massimo Capra. My cousin's daughter was as a server while going to university.

We had great food and great fun catching up. A wasn't our server, but she did take our orders and stop by when she could. David was a  delightful server who gave us a chocolate lava cake on the house.

EGGS MASSIMO Two Eggs Poached in Tomato Sauce, Roasted Onions, Fresh Tomatoes, Oregano, Sausage or Bacon, Homefries or Arugula & Cherry Tomato, Multigrain Bread.

Merguez Sausage Hashbrown  Poached Egg, Shredded Potatoes, Peppers, Tomato, Onion, Citrus Avocado Crema

My fern is doing well, although it does drop a lot of leaves(?).

MONDAY

Monday's Mural

On the bus - don't let it fool you, it was cold and windy! The trees have lost their autumn finery. 

I met my BFF and we had lunch and did the shops. K even bought a top at Winners!

John decided his sandals were falling apart so ordered new ones online.

TUESDAY

SIGNS  - Canada Walk of Fame

Tuesday Treasures 

I figured out and configured my laptop so I can use Google Docs while offline.

Then I started encountering this error while doing various things online.

Cloudflare down today: Cloudflare, a critical web infrastructure provider, experienced a major outage that disrupted access to numerous major websites worldwide, including X (formerly Twitter). This incident highlighted the company's essential role in keeping the internet running smoothly and how its failures can have widespread, visible consequences.

I had a haircut and then went to meet a friend for lunch. After that I did a couple of errands before heading home. 

Some sights along the way.

We had seen these birds at City Hall last week, but we didn't realized they were an advertising campaign.

 Energy Bird is a system of products mindfully designed to regulate your energy throughout the day. Whether it’s building your base, boosting your brain’s energy, or finding balance, we have a formula for that.

The event is free and open to the public, with no tickets required. However, you can unlock special benefits with a Flock Access experience complete with product discounts, exclusive swag and a skip-the-line fast pass.

You can qualify by entering the Instagram giveaway or by finding the Energy Birds located across the city.

The plaque highlights the vital, yet often overlooked, contributions of women to Toronto's workforce. The site was once a mail-order warehouse for The Robert Simpson Company, where women took on significant industrial roles, especially during the First World War, which helped pave the way for greater workplace equity. 

Royal York Hotel getting attired in her festive array.

John went out to lunch with his old boss.

I had procrastinated completing our Japan entry declaration and it turned out to be not to bad. Some questions were a little weird due to translation but we got our QR code. 

WEDNESDAY

We booked mani pedis for 10:15. Then I went downtown to do some errands. I wanted some makeup and a couple of things for dinner and for Christmas, as well as some cash. I did get a turkey breast on sale for Christmas. 

John got started on his packing and his new sandals arrived. He also took his clubs out of the car.

THURSDAY

We got the Christmas fund cheque to the office for the employees. We won't be going to the Christmas party. John started handing out his Xmas money to our special employees that we engage with daily.

The car keys were given to the valets in case they have to move it for something.

Packing, organizing, finalizing, watering plants, tidying, ETC.

FRIDAY

We are off to the airport at 6:40AM!

COOKING

Saturday rotisserie chicken pot pie

Sunday brunch Capra's dinner leftover chicken pie

Monday chips and eggs

Tuesday Vietnamese pork meatball wraps

Wednesday Liver fried onions carrots turnip (yay the end) mashed potatoes 

Thursday ORDER Swiss Chalet Chicken

Friday TRANSIT

WATCHING

Memoirs of a Geisha  released in Japan as Sayuri, is a 2005 American epic period drama film. It tells the story of a young Japanese girl, Chiyo Sakamoto, who is sold by her impoverished family to a geisha house (okiya) to support them by training as and eventually becoming a geisha under the pseudonym "Sayuri Nitta." The film centers around the sacrifices and hardship faced by pre-World War II geisha, and the challenges posed to geisha society by the war and a modernizing world.

Mr. Mercedes  is an American crime drama television series based on the Bill Hodges novel trilogy by Stephen King, which consists of Mr. Mercedes, Finders Keepers, and End of Watch. It was developed by David E. Kelley, and stars Brendan Gleeson and Harry Treadaway.

Retired detective Bill Hodges is still haunted by the unsolved case of "Mr. Mercedes", who claimed 16 lives when he drove a stolen Mercedes through a line of job-seekers at a local job fair. Meanwhile, brilliant young psychopath Brady Hartsfield emerges to focus his attention on Hodges. What begins as an online cat-and-mouse game soon has deadly real-life consequences as an increasingly desperate Hartsfield becomes bent on leaving his mark on the world.

It slowly dawned on us that we had watched this during the pandemic!

I watched Once  on CBC Gem, a 2007 Irish romantic musical drama film written and directed by John Carney. The film stars Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová as two struggling musicians in Dublin, Ireland. Hansard and Irglová had previously performed music as the Swell Season, and composed and performed the film's original songs.

READING

With some much organizing going on this week I am still reading A Darker Domain.

However I did download a bunch of books to read over the next while.

Weekend Roundup

 WE ARE TRAVLLING UNTIL DEC 22, I WILL LINK UP IF POSSIBLE. BUT I EXPECT LIMITED INTERNET/WI-FI.

Welcome to The Weekend Roundup...hosted by Tom The Back Roads Traveler

1. Starts with "U"
2. A Favorite
3.  UP- Chosen by Tom

Starts with U (BIGGEST/SMALLEST/LONGEST/SHORTEST/OLDEST)

YOU U UP

FAVOURITE

Note the U in flavour vs flavor. No honour before valour.

Funnies

 

Tuesday Treasures

 Tom the backroads traveller hosts this weekly meme - Tuesday Treasures

November 2025 - Toronto

Not quite a treasure, but I HAD to post this today as Tom knows my potato chip collection/obsession! I found this yesterday, and everyone's reaction has been "yuck!"

Will be added to my collection!

Dinner is served, with no fuss or pots and pans to clean up!

Signs

  Joining Tom at Signs2

Wordless Wednesday Wordless

Canadian Walk of Fame

Eating Sushi in Tokyo

 The concept of storing fish in fermented rice began in Southeast Asia as a means of preserving the fish for several months at a time. Known today as nare-zushi, or salted fish, the rice was not meant for consumption and would be discarded before the fish was served. This method spread to China and eventually, Japan, where vinegar was added to the rice to enhance flavor as well as improve preservation. During the Edo period (1603 – 1868), chefs began serving the fish over vinegared rice rather than discarding it; once perfected, this would become known as nigiri-sushi, the most common type of sushi served today.

Varieties

There are several ways to prepare sushi as well as a number of regional sushi dishes in Japan. These are the most common:

Chirashizushi – Literally, “scattered sushi”, a selection of various types of fish and vegetable garnishes are served atop a bowl of rice. In the Kansai region, the fish is often mixed into the rice.

Inarizushi – Sushi rice is served inside a pouch made of lightly sweetened fried tofu. The dish is named after the Shinto god Inari, whose messengers supposedly had a particular fondness for fried tofu.

Makizushi – This dish consists of a selection of fish, vegetables, egg, and rice rolled into the shape of a cylinder. It is then wrapped in nori, or dried seaweed, to hold it together.

Nigirizushi – Literally, “hand-pressed sushi”, this is what most people are referring to when they talk about sushi. Some of the most common fish are tuna, salmon, and octopus.

Oshizushi – A specialty of Osaka city, the fish is placed into a wooden mold, topped with rice, and then pressed into the shape of a block. After the block is formed, the chef cuts it into smaller pieces to be served.

Also known as “conveyor belt sushi” and “sushi-go-round”, Kaitenzushi is a unique dining experience in which plates of Japanese sushi placed on a conveyor belt that winds through the restaurant. Customers are free to pick and choose the plates as they pass in front of their seat, with the plate colour/design indicating the cost of each dish. There is at least one chef constantly preparing sushi for the belt at all times to ensure customers have a variety to choose from. Alternatively, requests can be made if a specific item is not on the belt.

The concept was created by Yoshiaki Shiraishi, a struggling restaurant owner who came up with the idea after a visit to Asahi brewery, where he saw beer bottles moving throughout the factory on a conveyor belt. Shiraishi opened the first Kaitenzushi restaurant in 1958 and would go on to open over 250 restaurants throughout the country, most of which would eventually shut down. Still, kaitenzushi is hugely popular in Japan and has recently gained traction overseas as well.

Many foreigners put too much soy sauce on their sushi. The reason is that they dip the shari (vinegared rice) side into the soy sauce. If you dip the shari side into the soy sauce, not only will the shari absorb too much soy sauce, but the shari will also become easier to crumble. When putting soy sauce on sushi, try to put the soy sauce on the neta side.

Eat sushi in one bite.Sushi is designed to be eaten in one bite. To fully enjoy its flavor, you should never cut sushi into smaller pieces. If the sushi feels too large, it’s better to ask the chef to make it smaller for you.

Use your hands or chopsticks to eat sushi
Sushi can be eaten with your hands or chopsticks. At high-end sushi restaurants, the rice is often lightly pressed, so using chopsticks may cause the sushi to fall apart. For this reason, it’s recommended to eat sushi with your hands at such places. If you’re concerned about getting your hands dirty, using chopsticks is perfectly fine. Sushi enthusiasts often use their hands at high-end restaurants, but they switch to chopsticks for sushi with sauce to avoid getting the smell on their hands. Note that sashimi should always be eaten with chopsticks, as some people mistakenly try to eat it with their hands.

How to Hold Sushi Properly
Hold the sushi by gently gripping the sides of the shari with your thumb and middle finger, and lightly rest your index finger on the neta (topping). This makes it easier to eat without the sushi falling apart.

If you don't like wasabi, you can order your sushi without wasabi by saying 'sabi nuki'.
Wasabi is a food that people have different preferences for. Not putting wasabi on sushi is called "sabi-nuki" in Japanese. Many conveyor belt sushi restaurants offer sushi without wasabi from the beginning, or you can choose to have it without wasabi. At other restaurants, you need to order "sabi-nuki." It is considered bad manners to peel off the neta and remove the wasabi just because it has wasabi on it.

Make sure to have both cash and a credit card ready.
In Japan, there are many restaurants that only accept cash payments or only accept credit card payments. It is recommended to check the payment methods in advance or have both cash and credit cards with you.

Monday Mural

  I'm linking up at Monday Mural 

August 2025 - Toronto ON

These were found in Port Credit in Mississauga, where we went for breakfast on a summer morning.

What To Know About Japan

Japan is very known for its heritage sites and many religious temples and shrines.  When you are visiting these religious sites it is expected that you are to speak quietly in a low tone manner in the main halls, do not enter into places that are blocked of and definitely do not disrespect the statues and gods that are inside the religious sites and be mindful of what you are wearing when visiting these religious sites, nothing that is revealing or clothing like you are heading off to a club or beach.

Another ritual that must be done when entering shrines is the water cleansing source of any shrine. Some shrines would have instructions for you to be aware and follow but others do not. Use the ladles provided to pour water over your hands to rinse them, and pour water into your hand to use to rinse your mouth (please spit the water out on the ground, not back into the water source) this is believed to cleanse your body before entering the sacred place.

Japan is a futuristic country built around convenience, sustainability, and state-of-the-art technology. Giving excellent service is important in Japan. And what better way to provide impeccable service than innovative technology to match? 

 7-Elevens are the recommended place to use ATMs. As an added bonus they (and many of the convenience stores) sell some decent pre-prepared meals. The Lawson chain of stores have a huge selection of pre-packaged pastries that were replenished on a daily basis and we kept those on hand for a quick breakfast before a day of wandering.

Vending machines are located literally every 100 metres, serving all kinds of drinks

Parking is vertical. Space is a luxury in Japan and over 540,000 car parks have gone vertical.

The sidewalks in Tokyo (and train stations) have yellow tiles running down the middle of walkways. They have different textures/patterns (straight lines/bumps) and are designed for the visually impaired to guide them and identify where sidewalks intersect or there is a traffic crosswalk.

Bowing is a sign of respect. This gesture is used to greet (hello or goodbye), apologise, and display gratitude. A simple bow to your waist will do, or even just a bow of your head, but the real observation is the depth of the bow between one person to another as it’s reflective of the status of that person. Generally speaking, bow when someone else bows to you and you'll pick up this custom fast, or at least learn to do a polite head nod.

Japan has a very strict ‘no shoes’ policy which applies to a lot of places you’ll visit across the country. This stems from Japan’s culture of cleanliness and respect. While you’re out and about in the streets, popping into shops, you’ll be fine. However, when visiting homes, traditional restaurants, temples, and shrines, you will most likely be asked to remove your shoes. Don’t worry, these places will provide spare slippers for you to wear instead! One rule to remember especially is: no shoes on tatami!

Crossing chopsticks symbolises death. Food is an important element of Japanese culture, and there are lots of etiquette rules to keep in mind. You may or may not be surprised to learn that there are several rules reserved just for chopsticks! One such rule is that you should never cross your chopsticks as this symbolises death. Why? It’s because the gesture resembles a funeral rite where bones are picked out of the ashes with chopsticks and passed to another – crossing the chopsticks in the process. Additionally, sticking your chopsticks into food vertically is also considered a bad omen as it resembles the incense sticks used during funerals.

Other bits of foodie etiquette you should be aware of:
At most restaurants you will be served with a wet towel and chopsticks
It’s polite to say ‘Itadakimasu’ before eating, and ‘Kampai’ when cheers-ing your drink (nifty Japanese phrases for you!)
It’s considered rude to not finish everything on your plate
Slurping noodles is seen as a sign of enjoyment – so slurp away!

 Ometanashi isn’t just a word, it’s a way of life. Familiarise yourself with “O-me-te-na-shi”, short for, “Japanese service and hospitality.” It’s derived from the practice of politeness with intent to create harmony and avoid conflict. You will experience customer service to a whole new level, that goes above and beyond anything that you’re used to. From traditional ryokans to shop assistants running out the door to return your 1yen coins – you’ll be showered with kindness and amazed at their attention to detail to keep you smiling.

There’s a zero tolerance policy on rubbish. If you’ve ever been to Japan, you’ll soon realise that rubbish bins are scarce. Most sites and public spaces are immaculate and clean. It’s basic etiquette to take your rubbish home with you and word on the street – all local residents receive a garbage guide with rules for trash collection broken down from plastic, paper, cans, newspapers, etc.

Don’t walk while eating. Leave that big city hustle mentality behind you and stop to appreciate the food you're putting inside your body. Walking with food and drink in hand can be seen as disrespectful in Japan. Japanese take pride in keeping their streets clean.. So have a seat, slow down, and don’t treat walking from one attraction to another as the perfect time for a snack.

Don’t count your change. Often w hen you purchase something, your change will be returned on a little tray. Try your best to not count this in front of them as this shows you distrust them and being honest is a big thing that is expected of everyone there. By harmlessly counting your change you could be insinuating that you do not trust them. On the topic of little trays, its also good to get into the habit of not handing people cash directly, these little trays are there for you to place your money on to pay and receive change.

As amazing as it is to see the graceful geishas IRL in the streets of … and how epic it would be to catch a selfie with them for your friends and family back home… just remember that this is extremely disrespectful!. As beautiful as they may look, these ladies are not celebrities or tourist attractions. They are working women and to stop them in the streets will potentially make them late for their next engagement, which is a big Japan travel faux pas. Instead, how about hiring a kimono or Yukata yourself to wander the ancient streets. Locals love to see tourists fully embracing their culture and what better way than to wear their traditional clothes. If dressing up isn’t for you there will most likely be “fake” geisha scattered around the streets who are always more than happy to take a photo with you! They will probably be walking at a slower pace and will be on the more busy streets. 

8. Don’t blow your nose in public. This should already be ingrained in your everyday post-covid etiquette but in Japan it was looked down upon even before covid hit. Sniffling and blowing your nose loudly can result in you standing out and people looking at you in disgust, unless that's something you're into. Regardless It's best to wear a mask in public if you're feeling even the faintest bit under the weather.

9. Know your way around the escalator. If you're observant or coming from a large city you're probably aware of this rule already, but when using the escalator in Japan, the left side is for standing and the right is for continuous walking. So if you feel like your step count is capped for the day stay to the left, but if you wanna add a couple more flights of stairs walk on the right.

Be quiet on public transport. Looping back to being considerate of others and your surroundings, you'll have people staring in disbelief if you're having a big ole chinwag with your mates, or if you're blasting music loudly through your headphones. Commuters like to keep communal spaces quiet for people that work long hours. Trains are often used as a place to relax, take a nap or play a few games on silent mode.

Funnies

 

Japan Vietnam Thailand Itinerary

November 2025 

We had booked the Vietnam and Thailand package first with Wingbuddy. We don't take their flights as we prefer to do our own (air points, flexibility, credit card points and benefits, cc insurance and perks). Their initial flights also went through the States which we had no intention of doing so.

The tour package is semi-organized which is what we like. There is a lot of time on our own. There are no welcome of farewell dinners or really any dinners included. There are no home stays. 

When we started looking at flights the intention was to add Japan at the end, over Christmas, however the flight costs were so astronomical that we said forget it. Then we decided since Air Canada had a stopover in Japan we may as well add it ad the beginning so we added 5 days in Tokyo before joining the tour in Hanoi.

FLIGHTS VIDEO

SPREADSHEET  - WILL ADD LATER

FRI NOV 21 

We will fly November 21 9 AM to Vancouver with a 1hr 58 m layover, then Vancouver to Tokyo

arriving late afternoon on the 22nd.

ARRIVE TOKYO SAT NOV 22 4:30 PM Arrange transfer to hotel

HOTEL
6 Chome-6-2 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan

We then have  SUN NOV 23 until WED NOV 26 to explore Tokyo. We fly to Hanoi on the 26th around 6 PM. We decided to go to the airport around noon.

Nov 26 - Dec 22

Day 1: Hanoi (Vietnam)

November 26 2025

Make your way to your hotel for check-in. (To ensure your airport transfer is arranged, please make sure to send us your flight details - only if you are arriving that day.)

After arriving in Hanoi, the rest of your day is free for you to relax or start your exploration of the night markets and bustling streets of Hanoi.

Day 2 - Day 3: Hanoi

2 additional nights - From November 27 2025 to November 28 2025

Days at leisure. (Breakfasts)

Day 4: Hanoi

November 29 2025

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy some free time to discover Hanoi at your own pace.

Departure in the late afternoon from your hotel to embark on a street food tour in the Old Quarter of Hanoi, where your expert English-speaking local guide will give you an insight into the intricacies and traditions of Vietnamese food culture, including details on ingredients and historical backgrounds of popular dishes. Walking through the maze of bustling streets that make up the Old Quarter, tempt your taste buds with famed Hanoi dishes at local eateries. Watch in awe as the skilled chefs demonstrate for you how the tasty dishes are prepared. Continuing into the heart of the Old Quarter, you will wander past street stalls and quiet residential lanes where you can observe local life that has hardly changed since the colonial era. At the end of the tour, you will be free to continue your exploration of the area. Your guide will assist you with directions or a taxi if you are willing to go back to your hotel. Overnight in Hanoi. (Breakfast-Dinner)

Day 5: Hanoi

November 30 2025

Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, you will meet with your local guide in the lobby of your hotel for a full day city tour of Hanoi. You will start with the Ho Chi Minh Complex, including the Mausoleum, his former stilt-house residence, the Presidential Palace, and the nearby One Pillar Pagoda founded in 1049. This structure has become an important symbol for the people of Hanoi. Then you will continue toward the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university founded in the 11th century.

After your lunch included at a local restaurant, you will visit the Hoa Lo Prison Museum, which housed Vietnamese revolutionaries and American prisoners of war during the Vietnam War. Afterward, you will enjoy a cyclo ride for about an hour, touring through the narrow, lively streets of the Old Quarter, heritage of the French colonial era in Hanoi. At the end of the day, you will see a traditional performance of the famous Vietnamese water puppets. Dinner at leisure and overnight in Hanoi. (Breakfast-Lunch)

* Please note : The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is closed all day on Mondays and Fridays, as well as from October 1st to November 30th (approx.) for annual conservation.

Day 6: Halong Bay

December 01 2025

Following breakfast at the hotel, you will leave Hanoi for Halong Bay. En route, you will enjoy a refreshment break. Continuation toward Halong Bay, where you will meet the crew upon arrival and board the traditional wooden junk. You will have some free time to relax in your cabin before enjoying lunch on board while the boat heads toward the secluded islands.

In the afternoon, you will visit an ancient limestone cave and go sea kayaking and swimming (if weather permits). You will return to the junk refreshed and invigorated, just in time to relax on the deck with a drink to watch the sunset. For your evening dinner on board, enjoy a meal prepared with local products and seafood. Overnight on board. (Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner)

Day 7: Halong Bay - Hanoi - Hue

December 02 2025

Enjoy the fullness of a sunrise and a morning swim (if weather permits) before taking breakfast on board. Then, you will visit one of the famous caves in the middle of the bay before cruising back to the main harbor for the transfer back to Hanoi. You will then be transferred to Hanoi's airport for a short flight to Hue. Upon arrival, you will be picked up and transferred to your hotel in Hue. Free dinner and overnight in Hue. (Breakfast-Lunch)

Day 8: Hue

December 03 2025

Breakfast at your hotel. Today you will discover Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam from 1802 to 1945. You will start your city tour with the ancient walled citadel, including the former Imperial Palace, where ruins of the city’s regal past can still be seen. Created in the 19th century, the Imperial City was modeled on the Forbidden City in Beijing and holds many palaces and temples inside its giant walls. You will then visit the Dong Ba market to learn about the local products and specialties of Hue. You might get some great deals at the local Dong Ba market, especially if you are interested in a traditional Vietnamese conical hat.

After lunch at a local restaurant, you will visit the majestic royal tomb of King Tu Duc, one of the most magnificent mausoleums in Vietnam located along the Perfume River. Dinner free and overnight in Hue. (Breakfast-Lunch)

Day 9: Hue - Danang - Hoi An

December 04 2025

Following breakfast at the hotel, enjoy some free time to continue your exploration of Hue at your own pace.

After lunch at leisure, you will drive southward to Hoi An via Danang. Upon arrival in Danang, you will visit the famous Marble Mountains, five marble and limestone hills named after the five elements of nature. After your visit, transfer to your hotel in Hoi An. Dinner free and overnight in Hoi An. (Breakfast)

Day 10: Hoi An

December 05 2025

After breakfast, you will meet your guide in the lobby of your hotel to start your exploration of Hoi An. On this walking tour, your guide will show you several interesting places around the old town of Hoi An, including the old Japanese Covered Bridge dating back to 1593, the Phuc Kien Temple (Fujian Assembly Hall), a city museum, and the colorful local market. You will walk along tiny streets with houses and buildings influenced by Chinese, Japanese, French, and European architecture. After the walking tour, enjoy some free time to continue your exploration of Hoi An.

Hoi An is a unique destination in Vietnam and Southeast Asia. It's the only city in the country that has preserved this typical architecture of a trading port from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Stroll along the docks, wander around the local markets, or have a silk dress or suit fitted with outstanding quality at an outrageously low price. You can easily explore the old town by foot. There is also a bevy of amazing restaurants, old houses, craft shops, and art galleries where local artists exhibit their works. If you are interested in a more relaxed afternoon, make your way to the beautiful Cua Dai beach, located just a few kilometers away from the bustling city. (Breakfast-Lunch)

Day 11: Hoi An

December 06 2025

Following breakfast at the hotel, enjoy some time free to continue your exploration of Hoi An and its surroundings or opt for an optional excursion ($) with your guide. After exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hoi An, you might want to visit the majestic temples at My Son, a complex of Hindu temples built by the Cham people between the 4th and the 14th centuries. You might also want to attend a cooking class at a riverside restaurant in Hoi An old town or get up close and personal with dairy farming and fishing life. For early risers, why not capture the real Hoi An by joining a 4-hour photography tour led by a local expert? If you want to discover underwater life, hop on a boat tour to Cu Lao Cham Island for a fun and relaxing day exploring exotic coral reefs. (Breakfast)

Day 12: Hoi An - Danang - Ho Chi Minh City

December 07 2025

Breakfast at the hotel and time at leisure in the morning to take a last walk to re-visit a local market in Hoi An. At the time scheduled with your guide, you will be picked up at your hotel and transferred to the airport in Danang for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

Upon your arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, you will be greeted by our local representatives and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to discover Ho Chi Minh City, the largest city and economic capital of Vietnam. Dinner is free and overnight in Ho Chi Minh City. (Breakfast)

Day 13: Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnels

December 08 2025

After breakfast, you will leave the city toward the Cu Chi Tunnels, where you will visit the amazing network of underground tunnels that was used during the Vietnam War by the Viet Cong. This huge construction was a habitation for villagers in the war. With 3 levels of depth, it was never discovered by the US troops during the Vietnam War, despite its proximity to Ho Chi Minh City.

After lunch included at a local restaurant, you will return to Ho Chi Minh City for an afternoon guided city tour. You will start with a visit to the War Remnants Museum, which contains exhibits related to the First Indochina War and the Vietnam War. Then, you will see the Reunification Palace, which was the home and workplace of the President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. Continuation toward the city center, where you will notice a lot of buildings dating back to the French colonial era, such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Old Post Office, the Municipal Theatre, and the City Hall. After the visit, you will return to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City. (Breakfast-Lunch)

Day 14: Ho Chi Minh City - Can Tho

December 09 2025

Following breakfast at the hotel, you will head south to visit the Cai Be floating market, cruising on the Mekong River among local barges full of fruits and vegetables. After that, your local guide will offer you the option to stop at local workshops where you will see how to make rice paper, coconut candy, and pop-rice, among other things. Later in the morning, a rowing boat will take you deeper into the countryside on smaller canals to enjoy the peacefulness of the Mekong Delta. You will also see traditional houses made of wood and palm tree leaves.

After a tasty lunch included at a local restaurant, you will have some time to walk around and enjoy some fresh fruits while listening to traditional music. Your guide will also offer you the option to enjoy a leisurely bike ride along village paths to see local farms and real life in the countryside and observe the ancestral ways to pick up fruits in the Mekong Delta. The cruise will end at Vinh Long City, where you will be transferred to Can Tho, in the heart of the Mekong Delta, for your overnight stay. (Breakfast-Lunch)

Day 15: Can Tho - Cai Rang floating market - Ho Chi Minh City

December 10 2025

Breakfast at the hotel and departure for a boat cruise that will take you to the vibrant Cai Rang floating market. Here, you will experience a local type of market in which all purchasing activities take place on boats and ships of different sizes. Then, you will continue through a small canal to visit a fruit garden, where your guide will show you around before having a plate of delicious fruits. After your return to Can Tho, you will have some time at leisure to observe rural life and the lush vegetation along the riverbanks. Check out of your hotel and drive back to Ho Chi Minh City with lunch included en route. The rest of the afternoon and the evening are free. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City. (Breakfast-Lunch)

Day 16: Ho Chi Minh City - Bangkok (Thailand)

December 11 2025

After breakfast, greeting in the lobby of your hotel by our local representatives, and transfer to the airport in Ho Chi Minh City.

Dep:Ho Chi Minh City Dec 11, 2025 - Bangkok Dec 11, 2025

 VN609 SGN | Dec 11 18:40 - BKK | Dec 11 20:15 luggage ECONOMY

Dur.:1h 35m

Arrival at the airport in Bangkok. You will be met by our local representatives and transferred to your hotel in Bangkok. The rest of the day is free for you to start your exploration of Bangkok, a city that never fails to amaze. (Breakfast)

Day 17: Bangkok

December 12 2025

After breakfast, you will meet your local guide for a half-day city tour of Bangkok. Starting at Wat Phra Kaew, a sumptuous and colored temple famous for its Emerald Buddha made of jade, you will make your way to the Royal Palace, the most praised royal monument in Thailand. This palace, built in the late 18th century, is the perfect example of an ancient Siamese court with its bright buildings, golden spires, and glittering mosaics, all dating back to the foundation of Bangkok. Then, you will visit Wat Pho, a temple hiding a huge reclining statue of Buddha, which is regarded as Thailand’s first center of public education. Mural paintings, inscriptions, and statues found in the temple were used to educate people on various subjects such as literature, warfare, archaeology, astronomy, geology, and meditation. It is also home to traditional Thai massages. (Breakfast)

Rest of the day at leisure. You can choose from a large variety of optional excursions at your destination ($). Experience, for example, a delightful cruise on the Chao Phraya River to take in views of Bangkok's landmarks from a different angle or pamper yourself with a relaxing Thai massage. As the evening wears on, enjoy drinks and dinner at one of Bangkok’s best rooftops, overlooking a magnificent cityscape.

Day 18: Bangkok

December 13 2025

Breakfast at the hotel. Full day free to continue your exploration of Bangkok on your own. If you are willing to absorb the atmosphere of Thailand’s water markets, make your way to Damnoen Saduak floating market, located just an hour away from Bangkok. It can be a fascinating insight into Thai culture. You can also visit the historic city of Ayutthaya, dating back 700 years, which is bursting with stories to tell. This ancient capital of the Kingdom of Siam is well known for the splendor of its traditional architecture and will give you a new perspective on the Thais’ spiritual life. (Breakfast)

Day 19: Bangkok - Chiang Mai

December 14 2025

Following breakfast, you will be met in the lobby of your hotel and transferred to the airport in Bangkok for your flight to Chiang Mai.

Dep:Bangkok Dec 14, 2025 - Chiang Mai Dec 14, 2025

 TG110 BKK | Dec 14 13:30 - CNX | Dec 14 14:45 ECONOMY

Dur.:1h 15m

Upon arrival at the airport in Chiang Mai, you will be greeted by our local representatives and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore the area at leisure. (Breakfast)

Day 20: Chiang Mai

December 15 2025

In the morning, after breakfast, you will meet your local guide for your half-day tour of Chiang Mai. Starting at Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, one of the most sacred temples in northern Thailand, containing a holy relic of the Lord Buddha, you will get exhilarating views of Chiang Mai and its surrounding countryside. Driving back to the city, you will visit Wat Suan Dok, a temple erected in the late 14th century by the local monarchy. Nowadays, it houses several white Chedis, all containing ashes of Chiang Mai’s former royal family, and it features one of the most famous monk schools in the whole locality of Chiang Mai. Finally, you will reach Wat Jedyod, also known as the “Temple of the Seven Spires," a very unusual temple building built in the 15th century. Lunch time and afternoon free. (Breakfast)

Day 21: Chiang Mai

December 16 2025

Breakfast at the hotel. Today is free for you to explore Chiang Mai at your own pace. You can also opt for a wonderful optional half-day excursion ($) to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary. (Breakfast)

A visit to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary will offer visitors an enjoyable opportunity to spend quality time with elephants in their natural habitat, as well as gain insight into their lifestyle and behavior, and create cherished lifelong memories of the time spent with these amazing animals. You can touch, feed, photograph, and interact with the elephants at your leisure before accompanying them to a nearby mud spa. Then, you will walk with the elephants to a nearby river and join them in the water for a refreshing bath. Finally, you will be offered some snacks and seasonal fresh fruits before enjoying once again the impressive rural scenery as you drive back to Chiang Mai.

Day 22: Chiang Mai - Phuket

December 17 2025

Following breakfast, you will be met in the lobby of your hotel and transferred to the airport in Chiang Mai for your flight to Phuket.

Dep:Chiang Mai Dec 17, 2025 - Phuket Dec 17, 2025

 H14700 CNX | Dec 17 10:50 - HKT | Dec 17 12:50 luggage ECONOMY

Dur.:2h 0m

Upon arrival at the airport in Phuket, you will be greeted by our local representatives and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to take advantage of the facilities or your hotel, relax at the beach, or explore the area. (Breakfast)

Day 23 - Day 25: Phuket

From December 18 2025 to December 20 2025

All breakfasts at the hotel. Enjoy three incredible days in Phuket, where you will certainly be mesmerized by its crystal-clear water, white sand beaches, mountain views, delicious cuisine, and the warm, friendly smiles of the Thai people. (Breakfasts)

You can also opt for an optional full-day Phi Phi Island excursion ($) by speedboat. The islands are widely considered to be amongst the most beautiful in the world and rocked to fame with the filming of the movie "The Beach" on Maya Bay. You will travel to Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Ley and see natural wonders such as Pileh Lagoon, a spectacular emerald green lagoon surrounded by high limestone cliffs, and Viking Cave. Stops will be made for snorkeling and swimming in the crystal-clear water of some of the nicest bays and beaches.

Day 26: Phuket - Bangkok

December 21 2025

After breakfast, you will be met in the lobby of your hotel and transferred to the airport in Phuket for your flight to Bangkok.

Dep:Phuket Dec 21, 2025 - Bangkok Dec 21, 2025

 H14778 HKT | Dec 21 19:30 - BKK | Dec 21 21:00 luggage ECONOMY

Dur.:1h 30m

Upon arrival at the airport in Bangkok, you will be greeted by our local representatives and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or to explore Bangkok one last time. (Breakfast)

Day 27: Bangkok

December 22 2025

After breakfast, you will be under your arrangements. (To ensure your airport transfer is arranged, please make sure to send us your flight details - only if you are departing that day.)

-End of services-

We have an early flight from Bangkok to Vancouver to Toronto.