The Tet Festival celebrates the beginning of the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. It is the most significant celebration in the Vietnamese calendar, and sees a number of traditional celebrations across the country.

It will take place on January 31st but expect to see the lucky colours of red and yellow appear several days before the official start of the festivities. The Vietnamese people believe that what they do on the dawn of Tet will determine their fate for the whole year.

Rickshaw Travel have several itineraries on offer for enjoying the experience. The Hidden Laos to Hanoi trip gives travellers time to explore rarely visited areas on the route between Laos and Vietnam. Highlights include Phonsavan, home to the Plain of Jars; Sam Neua, one of the least visited provinces in Laos; and the narrow valley of Viengxai with its caves brimming with history. 

Once in Vietnam, the journey will continue through Thanh Hoa province, home to several Muong villages, tumbling rice paddies, and limestone summits. A traditional homestay awaits in Mai Chau where the people are extremely welcoming, a great place to experience local culture and celebrate Tet.

The journey finishes in Hanoi, where the atmosphere exerts excitement, another excellent place to soak up the celebratory atmosphere. Prices start at £378 per person, based on two people sharing. This includes three nights accommodation, one day minibus guide, two breakfasts, two dinners and one lunch. Flights start at £690. 

To travel with Rickshaw Travel, a minimum of three modules should be booked, for a list of these and further information, visit www.rickshawtravel.co.uk or call 01273 322 399.