Rod Thomas Photography

Vietnam

24th May - 7th June, 2026

  • Register Now
  • Price: $9950 aud

  • Deposit: $2500 aud

  • Duration: 15 days

  • Location: Saigon + Hoi An + Hanoi

  • Participants: 4 + 2 guides

Embark on a breathtaking journey through Vietnam’s cultural tapestry—from high-energy cities to tranquil craft villages. Whether you’re chasing golden hour reflections or raw slices of daily life, this tour is a masterclass in visual storytelling.

Let’s kick off in Vietnam’s southern metropolis, Saigon, alive with movement and contrast. Then it’s on to Hoi An, a dreamscape of colour and calm. Finally, arrive in Hanoi—a photographer’s playground of texture, rhythm, and emotion.

  •  Capture motorbike-filled boulevards, colonial architecture, and bustling markets in Saigon

  •  Explore Hanoi’s Ancient Quarter, alive with lanterns, cracked facades, and local energy

  •  Witness the pulse at Long Bien Market—best visited before sunrise to catch candid action

  •  Snap dramatic shots at Train Street and dive into Hanoi’s rich street food heritage

  •  Photograph the Incense, Soy Sauce, and Fish Trap villages just outside Hanoi—three of the most visually striking and photographed communities in Vietnam

Join us on a journey that blends urban intensity, cultural intimacy, and landscapes that shift from chaotic to serene—all through the lens of your camera.

  • 24th May, 2026 - Arrive in Saigon

    Arrival & Welcome — Saigon

    After arriving at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Saigon, you’ll transfer to our tour motel, where we’ll meet later this afternoon for a relaxed catch-up over dinner. It’s the perfect chance to get acquainted, settle in, and walk through the curated itinerary we’ve crafted for the two weeks ahead.

  • 25th May, 2026 - Saigon

    Day 2 — Street Life & Hidden Corners of Saigon

    Today is all about immersing ourselves in the vibrant rhythms of Saigon street life. From the faded charm of vintage residential blocks to the bustling heart of Cholon—Saigon’s historic Chinatown—we’ll seek out images that reflect the authentic daily routines, textures, and traditions of the Saigonese.

    ( Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner )

  • 26th May, 2026 - Tay Ninh

    Day 3 :  Tay Ninh

    For photographers seeking rare visual stories, Tay Ninh offers mesmerizing patterns and vibrant scenes tucked away from the well-trodden path.

    • Cassava Starch Drying – Long Thanh Village Tay Ninh is a treasure trove of artisanal craftsmanship, with photogenic villages that brim with colour and activity. At Long Thanh, local artisans transform cassava starch into key ingredients for Vietnam’s beloved pudding. Watch as the starch is meticulously steamed, coloured, and shaped, then laid out on bamboo lattices to dry—creating a patchwork of colour and repetition.

    • Rice Paper Fields Rice paper—essential to Vietnamese spring rolls—is made across the country, but near Tay Ninh city, it reaches artistic scale. We’ll visit expansive open grounds where sheets of rice paper dry under the sun. Locals move through their daily rhythm: adjusting, collecting, and packing the papers in scenes that define iconic Vietnamese rural life.

    • Rubber Bowl Kilns Introduced by the French during colonial times, rubber trees have flourished in Tay Ninh's sun-drenched landscape. We’ll explore how the sap is collected with handmade bowls produced in local kilns—another slice of craftsmanship that’s both practical and picturesque.

    Enjoy lunch at a local eatery in Tay Ninh, then return to Saigon for dinner and overnight accommodation.

    ( Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner )

  • 27th May, 2026 - Saigon - Doc Let

    Day 4 — From Saigon to Doc Let: Salt & Seascapes

    After breakfast, we depart Saigon for the coastal city of Nha Trang via a short domestic flight. Upon arrival, we’ll head into the heart of the city for lunch, soaking in the shift from urban energy to seaside calm.

    In the afternoon, we drive to Doc Let, where we’ll check into our motel before venturing out to the salt flats. Here, you’ll capture compelling scenes of locals harvesting salt from seawater—a striking fusion of labour, light, and landscape that makes for dramatic compositions.

    Dinner and overnight stay in Doc Let.

    ( Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner ) 

  • 28th May, 2026 - Doc Let - Quy Nhon

    Day 5 — Sunrise Stories & Coastal Craftsmanship

    We begin the day with an early sunrise shoot at the Van Gia fishing community, capturing the raw beauty of daily life in a village untouched by tourist footprints. This quiet coastal enclave offers authentic moments of local rhythm—nets cast, boats docked, and the soft glow of morning light dancing across the water.

    After our shoot, we return to the motel for breakfast and a bit of free time to rest or reflect on the morning’s images.

    By late morning (around 11:00 AM), we check out and drive to Tuy Hoa for lunch.

    In the afternoon, we’ll photograph a village known for crafting coracles—the traditional circular fishing boats of central Vietnam. Then we set off on a photo walk across Vietnam’s longest wooden bridge, a scene of elegant lines and rustic charm that’s a dream for any visual storyteller.

    Dinner and overnight stay in Quy Nhon.

    ( Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner ) 

  • 29th May, 2026 - Quy Nonh

    Day 6 — Nets & Salt: Coastal Craft in Quy Nhon

    We begin the day with an early visit to a hidden fishing village, tucked away from the usual paths. Here, you’ll document local artisans as they mend fishing nets—an intimate, quietly powerful scene that reveals both the precision and tradition of Vietnamese coastal life.

    After the morning shoot, we return to the hotel for some free time and lunch.

    In the afternoon, we continue our photographic journey with candid scenes in a working salt pan. The layered textures, reflected light, and steady rhythm of labour offer a compelling visual story of resilience and craft.

    Dinner and overnight stay at our hotel in Quy Nhon.

    ( Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner )

  • 30th May, 2026 - Quy Nhon - Hoi An

    Day 7 — Journey to Hoi An: A Shift in Rhythm

    After breakfast, we embark on a scenic drive from Quy Nhon to Hoi An, a journey of approximately six hours through Vietnam’s ever-changing landscapes. Lunch will be enjoyed en route, offering a taste of regional flavours along the way.

    Upon arrival in Hoi An, we’ll check in to our motel and ease into the town’s laid-back rhythm. The late afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure—perfect for a quiet wander, some personal downtime, or a preview of the photo-rich streets you’ll explore tomorrow.

    Dinner and overnight stay in Hoi An.

    ( Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner )

  • 31st May, 2026 - Hoi An

    Day 8 — Nets in the Wind: Coastal Life in Hoi An

    We begin the day at the beach market of Binh Minh, where dawn unveils a timeless ritual. Boats return from the night’s catch, and local fishermen trade directly on the sand—a beautifully organic scene teeming with movement, light, and community energy.

    After capturing these sunrise moments, we return to the hotel for breakfast and enjoy some free time to recharge. (Lunch on your own today.)

    In the afternoon, we journey into the heart of coastal craftsmanship, photographing the fishing nets of Hoi An. Our first stop: a vibrant workshop where skilled artisans mend the nets with deft hands. Their focus and the intricate weave of the nets create a mesmerizing composition—textures and colours ripple like waves in motion.

    As the day begins to mellow, we move to the river mouth for golden hour magic. A lone fisherman casts his majestic net into the fading light, with the sun painting everything in soft yellow hues. Each arc and drop of the net tells a story of resilience, heritage, and harmony between people and nature.

    With every frame, you’ll capture a lyrical portrait of coastal Vietnam—one built on tradition, grace, and quiet power.

    ( Breakfast, Dinner )

  • 1st June, 2026 - Hoi An - Hanoi

    Day 9 — Into the North: Hoi An to Hanoi

    After breakfast at the motel, we transfer to Hoi An Airport for our flight to Danang International Airport, arriving shortly before midday. Upon landing, we head straight into downtown Hanoi, where lunch awaits—featuring the region’s beloved Bánh Mì, a delicious taste of Northern Vietnam.

    Following check-in and some time to freshen up, we’ll kick off our Northern photography journey with an afternoon shoot in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. This maze of alleys and timeworn facades is rich with rhythm and character—perfect for capturing street life, layered textures, and moments of local connection.

    Dinner and overnight stay in Hanoi.

    ( Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner )

  • 2nd June, 2026 - Hanoi

    Day 10 — Hanoi Unmapped: Stories Off the Tourist Trail

    Today offers a full immersion into the soul of Hanoi, as we photograph street scenes in unique, lesser-known locations—places where daily life unfolds quietly, away from guidebooks and crowds. Expect vivid textures, intimate moments, and local stories revealed through your lens.

    Lunch is a must-try experience: Chả Cá, Hanoi’s iconic turmeric-marinated fish, served sizzling at the table—a culinary ritual cherished by locals for over a century.

    Dinner follows in a local restaurant, celebrating the flavours and warmth of Northern Vietnamese cuisine.

    Overnight stay in Hanoi.

    ( Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner )

  • 3rd June, 2026 - Hanoi

    Day 11 — Village Trilogy: Textures, Traditions & Tales

    We set off early to explore three of the most photogenic villages on the outskirts of Hanoi—each offering a rich canvas of craft, culture, and colour.

    • Quang Phu Cau – The Incense Village Our morning begins amidst plumes of fragrant colour as we photograph artisans crafting bundles of incense—radiating symmetry, hue, and ritual beauty. It’s a spiritual and sensory experience, perfect for still-life shots and portraits alike.

    • Ban Yen Nhan – The Soy Sauce Village Next, we journey to a community renowned for its traditional soy sauce production. Earthenware pots line courtyards like mosaic patterns, and the fermentation process offers unique photographic angles and textures—from rich amber tones to repetitive geometric shapes.

    • Thu Sy – The Fish Trap Village & Dong Tao Chickens We round out the day in Thu Sy, where intricately woven bamboo fish traps become captivating subjects in their own right. This village is also home to the quirky and iconic Dong Tao chickens—famous for their unusually large feet. Their presence adds both character and charm to your frames.

    After a day filled with craft and curiosity, we return to Hanoi for dinner and rest.

     ( Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner )

  • 4th June, 2026 - Hanoi - Tu Le

    Day 12 — From Market Hustle to Mountain Calm

    We begin the day before sunrise at Long Biên Market—Hanoi’s largest fresh produce hub. This bustling scene is a photographer’s dream: vibrant colours, swift movement, and layered textures set against the backdrop of early-morning chaos. With every frame, you’ll capture the heartbeat of a city waking up.

    Later, we embark on a scenic drive to Tu Le, approximately 280 kilometres northwest, transitioning from urban rhythm to serene highlands. Along the way, we’ll stop to photograph the famed rice terraces, their sweeping curves and emerald hues offering iconic perspectives of rural Vietnam.

    Dinner is served at our motel in Tu Le, where we’ll settle in and prepare for tomorrow’s mountain magic.

    ( Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner ) 

  • 5th June, 2026 - Tu Le - Mu Cang Chai

    Day 13 — Northern Icons: Lim Mong Valley & Mu Cang Chai

    Today is devoted to the spectacular rice terraces of northern Vietnam—geometric poetry carved into the mountainsides by generations of skilled hands.

    We begin the morning in Lim Mong Valley, a timeless landscape draped in terraced fields and early mist. This iconic location is known for its sweeping vistas, soft light, and captivating human elements—from farmers in conical hats to water buffalo grazing between the tiers.

    In the afternoon, we travel to Mu Cang Chai, a region celebrated for some of the most dramatic and photogenic rice terraces in Southeast Asia. With each step and shutter click, you’ll capture the sublime interplay of colour, scale, and cultural heritage in one of Vietnam’s crown jewels.

    Dinner and overnight stay in Tu Le.

    ( Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner )

  • 6th June, 2026 - Mu Cang Chai

    Day 14 — Mirror Fields & Mountain Magic: Mu Cang Chai

    Today is devoted to exploring the scenic wonders of Mu Cang Chai, a highland gem that comes alive with reflective beauty during the early planting season.

    From late May to early June, after the first rains, farmers channel water from mountaintops into the terraced fields below—creating vast mirror-like ponds that capture clouds, sky, and sunlight in a kaleidoscope of motion and colour. This marks the beginning of rice seedling season, where life and landscape converge in extraordinary harmony.

    Imagine glittering gullies of water weaving through lush green hills—a vibrant mosaic reflecting the rhythm of nature and community. The sight is otherworldly, and every frame tells a story of patience, seasonality, and ancestral craft.

    We’ll return to our motel between shoots for meals and rest. All meals today will be served at the motel.

    ( Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner )

  • 7th June, 2026 - Mu Cang Chai - Hanoi Airport

    Day 15 — Farewell Frames & Departure

    Our final morning begins with one last sunrise session in Mu Cang Chai, capturing early light spilling across the reflective terraces. It’s a peaceful and poetic end to our photographic journey through Vietnam’s heartland.

    After the shoot, we begin our long-haul transfer to Noi Bai International Airport, with an expected arrival around 5:30 PM. Most of the day is dedicated to travel, allowing time to relax and reflect on the incredible experiences shared.

    Please ensure any departing flights are scheduled after 7:30 PM to allow ample time for check-in and formalities. If your flight timing doesn’t align, we're happy to help arrange nearby accommodation for a next-day departure.

    ( Breakfast, Lunch )

  • What is included ?

    • Twin share accommodation for the duration of the duration of the tour. A single supplement is available for $1100.
    • All meals where stated
    • Specialist, local,  photographic guides
  • What is NOT included

    • Flights to / from Vietnam
    • Any visa's required to enter Vietnam
    • Alcoholic drinks of any kind
    • Gratuities / tips for local guides. Not compulsory, but always appreciated
    • Travel insurance. This is the responsability of the tour participant.
    • Motel room the night before the tour starts.
  • Terms and conditions

    **  Your spot on this tour is not confirmed until we receive both a completed booking form and either the $2500 deposit required or full payment at time of booking. **

     

    Cancellation Policy: 

    Deposits are non-refundable. Cancellations must be received via email. Should you need to cancel your place on the tour, we will only refund any amount over and above the deposit you have already paid.. If you cancel less than 55 days before the tour starts there will be no refund of fee or deposit. Should another participant be found to fill the vacant place we will then, and only then, refund the deposit and/or balance you have paid. Final payment is due 60 days prior to the start of the tour unless otherwise specified. Your registration is guaranteed only when we have a deposit payment. Registrations are allocated on a first come first served basis. If the workshop is cancelled by us you will receive a full refund of your booking fees. Tour itineraries may be subject to change due to weather, road conditions or any other other unforeseen circumstances.

    Travel insurance: 

    Travel insurance is MANDATORY and highly recommended for cover of unforeseen circumstances. Camera and equipment insurance is the responsibility of the individual photographer. 

    Camera experience required: 

    A modest level of photographic experience would be advisable to get the most out of this tour. Familiarising yourself with your basic camera operations is also strongly advised. Please bring camera manuals in case the tutors need to make adjustments to your camera settings. 

    Minimum numbers: 

    All tours are conducted based on a minimum of participants booking. This may vary according to the tour you have chosen. If we cancel due to minimum numbers not being reached you will get a full refund of the tour cost only that you have previously paid. Other bookings you may make related to this tour are not our responsibility and so we recommend travel insurance to cover this. We will only run this trip if we reach the required minimum number of guests.

    Guides Availability: 

    We will be assisting you to take photographs and provide tuition throughout the tour if needed. In the event of a guide being unable to attend due to illness or other circumstances beyond our control we will endeavour to provide another guide of similar experience. 

    What else do you need to know? 

    There maybe some moderately energetic walking involved to get to certain locations so please consider this related to your physical abilities. If you have any other medical conditions that might affect your enjoyment of the workshop please let us know. Evening and early morning shoots will form part of the tour. You may choose to not participate in these but we recommend that you do take part. 

    Early morning shoot times are entirely dependant on the sunrise times so schedules we set for departure will need to be adhered to strictly. It’s not fair to the group as a whole to have to wait for a late riser so we will leave exactly at the times we say.

    Please bring clothing suited to early morning or evening shoots that may be a little chilly, sturdy foot wear, hat, sunscreen and camera of course…. Like any trip away from home please bring personal medication requirements. We usually meet the evening before the workshop to have drinks and/or dine together and get to know each other. Please consider this when planning your travel arrangements. 

    Liability Limitation Statement:

    We aim to provide every participant with a safe and enjoyable experience during the tour. As there is always an element of risk associated with the outdoors and travel in general we accept no responsibility/liability for injury, death, illness, losses or additional expenses associated with tour participation. By signing the booking form you are agreeing to all the listed terms and conditions. 

    Privacy Statement: 

    The information provided by participants will not be released to any other parties.

    Trip Investment: 

    The cost of the trip is $9950. A deposit of $2500, or full payment plus any single supplements, is to be paid with the return of the booking form. If paying just the deposit amount with your trip registration, the remainder of the trip needs to be paid no later than 60 days prior to departure.  A single supplement is available for $1100

    Other questions? 

    If you have any questions about this tour please do not hesitate to contact us.