You'll proceed directly to the Cholon, the city's Chinatown, which dates back to the 18th Century.  Its colorful streets bustle with a level of activity that continues unabated.  Your visit here will include a look at the busy Binh Tay market.

Then, at a lacquer workshop, you'll witness skilled craftsmen at work before browsing amon the many items for sale ranging from tiny boxes to full-sized furniture.  Your exploration will continue with a visit inside the landmark Reunification Hall, the former Presidential Palace.  Its typically 1960s architecture has changed little since April 30, 1975, tha fateful day when a North Vietnamese tank crashed throuh its front gates.

The National History Museum, built in 1929, is filled with artifacts chronicling Vietnam's 4,000-year history.  During your stroll past its small, but interesting, collection you'll discover ancient ceramics, traditional costumes and relics crafted in stone and bronze.  You'll also become acquainted with the evolution of Vietnam's cultures, ranging from the Bronze Age's Dong Son civilization to the present day.   That uniquely Vietnamese spectacle of a Water Puppet Theater, is also housed within the museum.

Exterior views of the neo-Romanesque Notre Dame Cathedral, the colonial-styled Central Post Office building and the People's Committee City Hall will then be featured.   You'll also pass the Continental, Rex and Caravelle Hotels before returning to the ship.

Approximately 5 hours.