In Vietnam, you can always find something extraordinary. Whether it’s the Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the bustling streets of Hoi An, or even Hanoi, every corner offers a different side and story.
Vietnam is known for its captivating contrasts, where ancient traditions seamlessly intertwine with modern attractions. On our week-long journey, we explored the streets of Hanoi, the landscapes of Halong Bay, the historical sites of Hoi An, the coastal areas of Danang, and the enchanting hills of Ba Na.
Wander Woman embarked on a memorable journey with seven women eager to explore the beautiful country. Our research of Vietnam uncovered scams by locals, incredibly busy roads, and unpredictable weather, but during our trip, we discovered a different side of it.
On the first day, we arrived in Hanoi and after some rest, we set out to explore the local markets. The crowded markets were a sensory feast with a variety of sights, sounds, and smells, offering everything from fresh produce to handcrafted souvenirs. Afterwards, we visited Mega Grand World, often referred to as the Disneyland of Hanoi. The colourful buildings reminded us of Venice, featuring gondola rides and a Pirates of the Caribbean ship in the centre. A blue and red train circled the entire area, adding to the ambiance. We shopped at various stores and enjoyed fruits and other local delicacies.
The next day, we started our trip to Halong Bay, which was the main highlight of our visit. We departed early in the morning by bus for our cruise. We were greeted with refreshing drinks and snacks upon our arrival. After lunch, we went on a tour of the Sung Sot Cave, awestruck by the rock formations. The azure waters and towering rocks in Halong Bay were a sight to behold. Our next stop was Titop Island, where we had a relaxing time on the beach. The day concluded with a rooftop cooking class on the cruise, followed by a sumptuous five-course dinner and a serene night spent on Halong Bay.
On the third day, we woke up early for breakfast and another sightseeing adventure in Halong Bay. We walked through tunnels and had a great time kayaking in calm waters. After our Halong Bay excursion, we headed back to Hanoi to explore more of the city’s famous landmarks. We visited Note Coffee and left personal notes as part of the unique experience. After that, we went for a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and visited the St Joseph’s Cathedral. The cycle rickshaw rides were a delightful addition to our city tour. We also visited the Train Street, witnessing a train pass by just as we had seen in pictures.
During our guided walking tour of the temples, our guide also allowed us to pause and absorb the ambiance. The highlight of the day was a lantern boat ride, which illuminated the night sky with vibrant lanterns.
Our next stop was Danang, one of Vietnam’s most significant and stunning coastal cities. Our hotel was conveniently situated near the beach, allowing us to frequently stroll along the sandy shores at night. We even had a beachside pizza party.
The following morning, our guide led us to Hoi An, an ancient town with a lot of history and culture. We began with a fun ride on a coconut boat, which was furthered by the energetic Gangnam Style music. During our guided walking tour of the temples, our guide also allowed us to pause and absorb the ambiance. The highlight of the day was a lantern boat ride, which illuminated the night sky with vibrant lanterns.
We spent our last day visiting Ba Na Hills and Sunworld. The Golden Hand Bridge, as famous as it is, was a sight to see. We indulged in delicious French pastries and took a scenic cable car ride. The park offered a dance performance, a rose garden, and numerous other attractions that cannot be fully experienced in one day. We felt like children again.
Our seven days in Vietnam were nothing short of magical. Every minute of the trip was filled with joy and discovery, from the vibrant streets and bustling markets to the serene landscapes and fun-filled attractions. Local shops, along with the warm and welcoming people, street vendours, and adorable puppies, added to the charm. This trip gave us a new perspective of the world, allowing us to connect and make lasting memories.