Discover the Charm of Vietnam: A Travel Story
Day 1: Arriving in Ho Chi Minh City
The plane touched down in Ho Chi Minh City, and the bustling energy of Vietnam hit me immediately. It was early evening when I arrived, and after a quick transfer, I checked into VYDA Hostel, a budget-friendly place offering beds for just €4 a night, no breakfast included. The hostel was nothing fancy—a two-star accommodation with dorms housing around 10 to 12 bunk beds. But surprisingly, the beds were quite comfortable, and the place was impeccably clean. I was fortunate enough to have a peaceful night’s sleep, as the other guests—ranging from 24 to 45 years old—were calm and quiet.
Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon as some still call it, is a labyrinth of energy and noise. The streets are teeming with scooters, an endless parade of motorcycles weaving through the chaos like they’re all part of a well-rehearsed dance. The air is thick with the sound of honking horns, and the sidewalks are cluttered with street vendors selling everything from steaming bowls of pho to fresh fruit.
I spent my first day in the city doing what any newcomer would—exploring. I dedicated my morning to visiting the War Remnants Museum, a powerful and emotional experience that left me reflecting deeply on the country’s history. After that, I wandered over to the Central Post Office, an architectural gem that stands as a colonial relic amidst the modern chaos of the city. By evening, after a satisfying dinner of Vietnamese delicacies—pho, banh mi sandwiches, and fresh spring rolls—I called it an early night, eager to adjust to the time zone.
The city never sleeps, but the jet lag was hard to ignore. By 11 p.m., I was sound asleep in my bunk, the hum of the city serving as a lullaby.
Day 2: A Journey to the Mekong Delta
The next day, I joined a Get Your Guide tour to the Mekong Delta. The bus ride was cramped—two hours in a minuscule van with barely enough room for my legs. The bus, I’m sure, had seen better days. If you’re over 6 feet tall, you might find this part of the trip uncomfortable. But the journey was worth it. The drive passed through lush rice fields, with the occasional glimpse of graves—an interesting Vietnamese tradition. In rural areas, families bury their loved ones in their rice fields, believing that their ancestors will be happiest at home, surrounded by the land they worked.
The first stop on the tour was Vinh Trang Pagoda, a place of stunning beauty. There’s an interesting difference between a pagoda and a temple in Vietnam. The pagoda is a sacred site for Buddhist prayers, while a temple can be used to pray for anything from wealth to health. In both, you light incense to connect with the spirits for whom you pray, and it’s customary to offer food, wine, or money as offerings.
From there, we hopped back into the cramped van, and after a little more travel, we arrived at the Mekong River. There, we boarded a boat to explore the famous river, often called "the Dragon with Nine Heads" because of the nine branches that flow into the sea. The boat ride was peaceful, with stunning views of coconut palms and tranquil waterways.
Along the way, we stopped at a coconut candy factory where we watched local women make delicious candies from coconut milk. Of course, we got to sample some too—sweet, chewy, and utterly satisfying. Afterward, we continued our ride down the river, heading toward lunch at a local village. I was seated at a long table with about eight other travelers. The food? A perfect combination of traditional Vietnamese flavors: rice, spring rolls, chicken soup, and fish wrapped in rice paper. The meal was simple but fresh, and I couldn’t stop eating.
The village had a somewhat strange but fascinating feature—a crocodile enclosure. The crocs were kept in small, enclosed spaces to prevent them from attacking the surrounding villages. I was told that the crocodile skin is also used for making goods, which was a little unsettling but still a part of the local economy (did not like these images so far but this is something you have to expect from this Country).
For a break, I lounged in hammocks and had the option to ride bikes around the village— a great way to experience the laid-back vibe of the area, though it was a little restricted as you couldn’t leave the village.
After the bike ride, we took a ride on a small gondola—women paddling us through the narrow channels, under canopies of palm trees, offering a glimpse of life along the river. The ride lasted about 10 minutes, but it was a nice, serene break from the usual hustle and bustle. Then, we had a chance to sample honey tea from the local bees, followed by a mini performance of traditional music and fresh fruit tasting.
By the time we made it back to Ho Chi Minh, it was early evening, and I was exhausted. But there was still time to squeeze in dinner. I tried Nori, a Japanese restaurant in the city - simple, unassuming, but incredibly tasty. Afterward, I retreated to my hostel, my mind buzzing from the day’s experiences, and soon, I was drifting off to sleep.
Day 3: Hoi An – The Lantern City
The morning after the Mekong adventure, I caught a flight to Da Nang with VietJet (27 euros). The flight was smooth, and as I descended toward the vibrant coastline of Vietnam, I could already feel the change in atmosphere. Upon landing, I took a transfer to Hoi An, just 45 minutes away for €10. The drive was a quick introduction to the peaceful, rural landscape of Vietnam, a perfect prelude to what awaited in Hoi An.
Hoi An is a whole other world compared to the hustle of Ho Chi Minh City. This town, known as the City of Lanterns, offers a charm that’s impossible to ignore. Though it's become quite touristy, especially with the influx of Western visitors, it still manages to retain its old-world charm. The streets are lined with colorful lanterns that seem to glow brighter with every passing moment. The gentle ripples of the river and the boats that carry lanterns across its surface create a dreamlike atmosphere, especially during the full moon - the highlight of my visit. That evening, the town was alive with the Lantern Festival, where visitors can purchase lanterns and send them floating down the river as a symbol of good luck and hope for the future.
Hoi An’s food scene is a highlight of any trip to this town. Everything, from the pho to the bun cha, is fresh and flavorful. Even the fish, pulled straight from the sea, was perfectly prepared. Although a bit "pricier" than Ho Chi Minh, with dinner averaging around €6, the experience was worth every "penny". What makes Hoi An even more special is its abundance of talented tailors. It's a paradise for anyone seeking to have a custom outfit made, and the local market offers a wonderful opportunity to explore and purchase handmade products.
For my stay, I booked a room at the Tue Tam Garden Villa run by My, a lovely mother of two who worked and lived in her spotless villa 24/7. At just €20 for two nights, the accommodation was fantastic. There was a pool, and she offered a breakfast for €3 upon request, which included a main dish, fresh fruit, and a drink. My’s brother, who helped run the business, was also available to assist with tours and even offered motorbike rentals - I rented one for just €5 a day (you can also get free bikes, but I was a bit lazy for that). A quick tip: always negotiate in Vietnam. Vendors tend to quote higher prices initially, but they are often willing to lower them if you ask.
By the time I arrived, it was already afternoon, so I decided to explore the rice fields nearby, where I had a close encounter with a water buffalo and then to head to the town and immerse myself in the charming streets. As the night approached, I wandered to the river to witness the Lantern Festival under the full moon. The soft glow of the lanterns on the river, combined with the gentle lapping of the water, created an enchanting atmosphere. It felt like stepping into a storybook, where time seemed to slow down.
Day 4: A Morning in Hoi An
The next morning, I woke up early, around 6 a.m., to explore the town before the crowds arrived. At that time, Hoi An felt almost deserted, giving me the chance to truly appreciate its magic. The Japanese Covered Bridge, the city’s symbol, was still reflecting in the river, and only a handful of locals were about, starting their day. Built in the 1500s by Japanese merchants, this iconic bridge was designed to connect the Chinese and Japanese communities of Hoi An. It even houses a small temple inside, adding to its spiritual significance. I walked across it, feeling like I had uncovered a hidden piece of the city’s soul.
After a leisurely walk, I made my way to An Bang Beach, which was peaceful and empty at this early hour. The sun was still soft, and the beach was tranquil. I rented a lounge chair for €2 (don’t forget to haggle a little) and settled in, soaking up the stillness of the morning. The sun here burns hot, so I made sure to slather on some SPF 100 - it’s no joke! When there are no crowds, the beach is perfect for meditating or just appreciating the stunning landscape. By 10 a.m., tourists began trickling in, but for those first few hours, it was blissfully calm.
You can also have fresh seafood delivered directly to your beach lounger. I spent the next few hours by the ocean, savoring the food and letting the peaceful atmosphere wash over me.
After a quick shower, I headed back to town. For a little pick-me-up, I stopped by Phil Coffee to try their egg coconut coffee. It’s a must-try in Hoi An! The coffee, rich and creamy, paired perfectly with the coconut flavor. It’s one of those drinks you never knew you needed until you try it. Afterward, I grabbed a bite at Nhan’s Kitchen, a cozy restaurant where the owner, Ty, made me feel like family. The food here was incredible—white rose dumplings, a Hoi An specialty, and the stuffed squid were unforgettable. The warmth and kindness of the staff only made the meal better, and I savored every bite.
As I walked through the charming streets, with the fragrant air and vibrant colors of the lanterns still lingering in my memory, I realized that Hoi An had already become one of my favorite spots in Vietnam. The town had a way of getting under your skin, offering not just a beautiful setting, but a slice of authentic Vietnamese life.
Day 4 and 5: The Perfection of Ha Long Bay and the Allure of Hanoi
The following morning I had some breakfast and chilled by the pool at the villa, waiting for the bus to come and pick me up, ready for my next journey. I boarded a night bus bound for Hanoi at 4pm (16hrs to reach the North). The journey was comfortable enough, though the bus itself left a lot to be desired. For €30, I had a VIP seat that allowed me to stretch out as much as possible, but I had to admit, sleep was tricky. The bus driver, perhaps in a state of perpetual urgency, seemed to take every opportunity to honk his horn—an incessant sound that kept me on edge. If you’re planning to take a similar ride, definitely pack earplugs and a travel pillow to make it more bearable.
I arrived in Hanoi the day after - around 8:15 AM, and I was instantly struck by the difference in atmosphere compared to Ho Chi Minh City. Though still busy and vibrant, Hanoi felt cleaner and more organized. The people seemed kinder too—more relaxed, perhaps, or maybe just more accustomed to the slower pace of life here. It was a welcome change from the chaotic streets of Ho Chi Minh.
My first stop was a cruise to Ha Long Bay, an unmissable natural wonder. By 8:30 AM, a driver picked me up for the journey, which took about three hours to reach the bay. During the drive, we stopped at a fascinating place where I learned about the delicate and intricate process of cultivating pearls from oysters. The oysters are kept in clean, pristine water to ensure the best conditions for pearl growth. Only the healthiest oysters are chosen for this process. A small nucleus—often made of mother of pearl—is carefully implanted into the oyster. This irritates the oyster, triggering it to secrete layers of nacre around the nucleus. Over the course of 6 months to 4 years, depending on the quality of pearl desired, the oyster slowly forms a lustrous pearl. After this long waiting period, the oysters are harvested, and the pearls are carefully evaluated for their size, luster, shape, and color.
There was an opportunity to purchase pearls with certificates, and I couldn’t resist - I had to buy something, so I got a silver ring with a delicate pearl. It was a perfect memento to remember this part of the journey.
Once back on the road, I made my way to Ha Long Bay, one of the most breathtaking places I’ve ever seen. The bay is famous for its towering karst mountains that rise dramatically from the water, creating a surreal and awe-inspiring landscape. The boat ride through the bay was nothing short of magical. I passed through clusters of islands, and the beauty of the landscape left me speechless. Most people say that this tour is kind of touristic, but I must admit I was very lucky as there were not that many people when I got there so I could really enjoy every bit of it.
Next, I ventured to the Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave), one of the largest and most stunning caves in the bay. Formed by centuries of karst erosion, the cave is a work of nature’s art, with stalactites and stalagmites that are thousands of years old. Inside the cave, there’s a sense of stillness, almost like stepping into another world. The local legend says that a dragon, sent by the gods, hid here after protecting the bay from invaders. As I explored the cave, I could almost imagine the dragon resting among the rocks, guarding the bay as it has done for centuries.
After the cave tour, I was taken to a viewing point high above the bay, where a climb of 300 steps rewarded me with a panoramic view that was truly unforgettable. The sight of the green waters stretching out into the horizon, dotted with jagged islands, was mesmerizing.
The tour also included a kayak ride, allowing me to paddle through the bay, feeling as though I was part of this natural masterpiece. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a few monkeys swinging from the trees on the island!
I ended up feeling like an actress in the middle of a group of Chinese people, too. That was fun!
We wrapped up the day with a light lunch and tea onboard, and by the time I returned to Hanoi, it was already time for dinner. I was craving something authentic, so I visited Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su, a no-frills Michelin-recommended restaurant. The atmosphere was casual, with shared tables, and within minutes, I was served a bowl of pho—a satisfying and comforting dish, though not as extraordinary as I had imagined.
Later, I wandered the streets of Hanoi, visiting The Note Coffee, a charming café plastered with handwritten notes from travelers all over the world (would not recommend the egg coffee here, though). It was a beautiful way to take in the local culture, sipping coffee and reading the thoughts of fellow explorers. I left my own note before moving on to a small night market (only open on weekends), where I bargained for some souvenirs, remembering to always haggle for the best deal.
By now, the city had come alive with music, laughter, and dancing in the streets—Hanoi truly shines when the sun sets. I capped off my evening with a delicious dessert and a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, marveling at how magical the city felt at night.
After a full day of sightseeing and exploration, I checked into the Kingly Hotel in Hanoi, a charming little gem tucked away in the heart of the city. The hotel felt cozy and inviting, with comfortable beds and spotlessly clean rooms - the perfect place to rest after an action-packed day. What I appreciated most, though, was the central location, just a stone's throw away from the bustling streets and iconic landmarks of Hanoi. It was an ideal base for a traveler looking to dive deep into the city's vibrancy.
The hotel staff were exceptionally helpful, and the young man who worked there took it upon himself to arrange all of my tours. While they were slightly on the pricier side, he made the process incredibly convenient, handling everything from transportation to tickets. However, if you’re traveling on a tighter budget and have a bit more time to spare, I’d recommend organizing the tours locally. That said, with my tight schedule and the desire to keep things hassle-free, I happily opted to go through him for peace of mind.
Day 7: Exploring the Tranquil Beauty of Ninh Binh
The morning arrived early, as 6:45 AM brought the gentle hum of Hanoi to life.
After a quick breakfast, I boarded a VIP bus, which took me on a scenic two-hour journey through the Vietnamese countryside. As the cityscape faded into the distance, the landscape transformed before my eyes. Lush rice fields stretched for miles, and water buffaloes grazed lazily in the morning mist. It felt like the world slowed down here—no rush, just nature’s serene beauty unfolding around me. I was in the heart of rural Vietnam, far removed from the frantic pace of the cities I’d visited so far.
Our first stop was the Den Tho Vua Dinh Tien Hoang Temple, a peaceful, ancient site where I paused for a moment of reflection and prayer. I lit an incense stick, offering my thoughts and well wishes to my loved ones back home. There’s something meditative about the act of connecting with a place so steeped in tradition, a pause that makes you reflect on the fleeting nature of life.
Next, I found myself drifting into the vastness of Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage site that looks as though it was plucked straight out of a fantasy film. As I drifted along the river in a small boat, the towering limestone cliffs loomed overhead, their jagged peaks rising dramatically from the water’s edge. The landscape here is simply awe-inspiring, the kind of place where you find yourself lost in its grandeur, your thoughts disappearing with the gentle flow of the river. It’s no wonder parts of the movie King Kong were filmed here—Trang An is truly a scene from another world.
As we glided through the labyrinth of grottoes and caves, the guide pointed out the mystical beauty of this natural wonder—stalactites and stalagmites stretching from the ceilings and rising from the water. The scenery was almost otherworldly, and I found myself mesmerized by the silence, broken only by the soft splash of paddles and the occasional call of a bird from above.
The final stop on our journey took us to the Mua Caves, where a challenge awaited—500 steps to the top, leading to a panoramic view of Ninh Binh that was worth every single step. The climb was steep, but the sweeping vistas of rice paddies and jagged mountain peaks made it all worthwhile. I could see for miles, the countryside sprawling out beneath me, dotted with tiny villages and winding rivers. It felt like standing on top of the world, a moment of quiet triumph.
After a day full of awe-inspiring sights and breathtaking landscapes, I headed back to the hotel, exhausted but fulfilled. The night was spent with a hearty dinner, followed by some much-needed rest. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn’t help but reflect on how each moment of this trip—each step I took—had been a beautiful reminder of the wonders the world holds, waiting to be explored.
Day 8-9-10-11: Ha Giang Loop Adventure – Riding Through the Heart of Northern Vietnam
After a restful evening in Hanoi, where I reflected on the stunning landscapes of Ninh Binh, I prepared for the next big adventure. By 11:00 AM, I was boarding a VIP bus, ready to journey six hours north to Ha Giang (6hrs), the starting point for my much-anticipated Ha Giang Loop motorbike tour. As the bus sped through the countryside, I couldn’t help but feel the excitement building in my chest. This was going to be one of the highlights of my journey—an opportunity to explore one of Vietnam’s most remote and beautiful regions.
If you’re not experienced with riding motorbikes but still want to tackle this thrilling loop, I highly recommend organizing the tour with Easy Rider, a local company that offers guided tours for travelers of all skill levels. The guide rides alongside you, ensuring your safety while you focus on the exhilarating ride through the mountains. For those who are already seasoned riders, make sure you have an international driving license. The local police are notorious for enforcing strict laws, and fines can go as high as 150 euros -definitely not the souvenir you want to bring back.
After a long, scenic drive, I finally arrived in Ha Giang at around dinner time. The town itself was modest—nothing flashy, just a few cozy restaurants and cafes catering to the small but steady influx of Western travelers. It had a charm of its own, though, especially with the anticipation of the tour ahead. After a satisfying dinner and some quiet moments to take in the laid-back vibe of the town, I retired for the night, eager to begin my journey through the mountainous beauty of the region the following morning.
The next day, at 8:30 AM, I met my Easy Rider guide—a friendly local who would accompany me on this two-day adventure through some of the most remote and breathtaking landscapes in Vietnam. We hopped on our motorbikes and set off, winding our way through narrow mountain roads, past terraced rice paddies and steep cliffs that seemed to rise up out of nowhere. The feeling of riding through this vast, untouched wilderness was exhilarating—like I had been transported to another world where time slowed down, and the only thing that mattered was the stunning beauty surrounding me.
As we ventured deeper into the mountains, we came close to the border with China, where the landscape grew even more dramatic. Towering peaks framed the horizon, their slopes dotted with tiny villages, and the air grew cooler as we ascended. The ride was nothing short of magical. Each turn presented a new, breathtaking view—valleys of lush greenery, winding rivers, and deep, serene gorges. I felt completely immersed in the untouched nature of the area, far from the bustling cities of Vietnam.
One evening, after a long day of riding, I found myself in a small village, where I joined the locals for some karaoke, a favorite pastime in Vietnam. It was a night full of laughter and cheers, and even though I didn’t know the words to many of the songs, I felt the warmth of the community. When it was time for a toast, the group raised their glasses and cheered, calling out: "Mot tai ba dzo!" - a phrase I quickly learned means "Mot tai ba dzo!" I repeated it with a smile, feeling truly connected to the joyful spirit of Vietnam.
The next morning, we continued our adventure, riding through the rocky terrain of Ha Giang. The loop’s twists and turns seemed to lead us deeper into the heart of this wild and remote land. As I looked out over the vast mountain ranges, it was impossible not to feel a sense of awe. I was witnessing the raw beauty of a region that, for many, remains a mystery, a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
By the time I returned to Ha Giang, my heart was full, my mind at peace, and my sense of adventure satisfied. The tour had been everything I hoped for - thrilling, scenic, and enriching - and I would carry these memories with me forever.
Before I left, I reflected on the experiences that had shaped my journey, and I couldn’t help but smile. As I bid farewell to my new friends and the stunning landscapes of Ha Giang, I raised my glass and said the words that encapsulate the spirit of my travels: "Mot tai ba dzo!"
Cheers to life, to adventure, and to the countless memories waiting to be made.