Viet Nam Tours

We had a wonderful tour of Viet Nam with a tour company Gate1 Tours.
They also offer Thailand/Cambodia/Viet Nam.
Here is a link:
Viet Nam - Thailand - Cambodia

I've also traveled with Gate 1 to Vietnam-Cambodia-Thailand (and Frances was very helpful with advice about using this company for travel, PM her!). I found Gate 1 acceptable but not the same flavor as RS tours (big bus, many of my tourmates were on the tour because they got a deal on Groupon). That said, I had a good time and the Vietnam guide was very good. I had not really wanted to visit SE Asia, but I am so glad that I did. It is such a lonnnnnng trek to get there, make the most of it and try to see as much as you can. And note you will need to arrange for a visa for Vietnam, plan accordingly.

Gate 1 has a "discovery" series that is along the lines of a RS tour (small groups), but I have not tried that format. I have an upcoming trip scheduled with GAdventures National Geographic-branded tour of Ecuador and Peru. I'd be happy to report back on how that works out. I have also heard OAT is more like the RS format.

We haven't gone yet but are considering it for 2018 or 2019 and will probably book with Laurus Travels. I've heard good things about them and they promise that there are no forced shopping stops.

We took a tour of Vietnam, with an extension to Cambodia, this year, using Odysseys Unlimited. We were highly satisfied, even though we are essentially independent travelers. Some of the reasons: just 22 people in the group, super guides, top notch hotels and restaurants, varied itineraries, including museums, historic and religious sites, cooking class, and cultural experiences. I don’t hesitate for a second to recommend them. In fact, we’re thinking of taking their Morocco tour next year.

We also went to Vietnam/Cambodia with Odysseys Unlimited 2 years ago. Wonderful trip in every way. We have taken a number of trips with this company and have enjoyed them all. A first class company. We are leaving Thursday for their trip to Croatia/Slovenia.

Thanks to all who took the time to reply to my query. My sister and i are in the very early stage of planning this trip for 2019 and we are busy comparing tours and the we appreciate the input from all that have had experience with tour companies intros part of the world. We are basically independent travelers that have taken, and thoroughly enjoyed 3 RS tours (the only tours that we have taken). Anticipating more drastic cultural and language differences, at least at this point, we think that a tour would be a more comfortable way to go for this one. We will very likely PM for more specific information as we get further into our plans. Thanks again!

I usually like to read travel articles from AZlocaltrip which is a travel assistant company. I recommended this company for some Korean friend of mine because the information they provide is useful and reliable
So, take a look at the company through their detailed travel information and tips:
Hopefully, it can help you somehow

I have one further point to add to what I said above. We did just sign up for an Odysseys Morocco trip in April. The schedule has not yet been mailed, but I asked to be given early notice. We weren’t even the first to reserve. Their tours fill up fast, so don’t wait too long, if that’s what you decide you want.

I haven't been to Vietnam, but I have traveled with a branch of National Geographic. (They have a co-branded tour with G Adventures.)

I've been 100% pleased with my tours through this pair of companies. You can find the tours on the National Geographic website now as well as on the G Adventures website.

I want to add my support for the Odysseys Unlimited tour to Vietnam and Angor Wat. We went 5 years ago ago and loved it. Greatest guide we’ve ever had. Wonderful food and accommodations. Angor Wat is not to be missed! January and early Feb. is a great time to visit.