Vietnam - with Intrepid Travel Part 1
As a leisure and corporate travel advisor, I spend a lot of time learning about exotic and cultural destinations across the globe. I’m lucky that I get to travel, too. Every so often a destination seems to pique my interest and lure me into really… really… wanting to visit. In 2024, this was Vietnam!
In October I was lucky enough to spend two weeks in Vietnam. I’ve put together some highlights which I hope do justice to this incredible country. Hanoi
My arrival in Hanoi, in the north of the country, was my first experience of Vietnam, and what an impression it left! Regardless of all the incredible experiences that came after, this was very much my favourite part of the trip. The smiles, the feel, the mayhem, the tranquillity along the river, the Old Quarter, the art and culture scene, the food – it’s all there in one city. A street food tour is a must (again and again, all over Vietnam, the food is out of this world). The first time you are faced with 100’s of Vespa scooters coming at you as you cross the road, will stay with you forever. You lose your British propensity to be polite and wait – you just have to go for it! Hanoi is an incredible place, and I would urge everyone to put it on their bucket list.
Ha Long Bay Ha Long Bay, in the north eastern corner of the country, was stunning. Known for its emerald waters and picture postcard vistas, this is an area popular for scuba diving, rock climbing and hiking. I cruised with Rosy Cruises who offered excellent accommodation. The buffet style food was beautifully presented. The kayaking, swimming, cooking class and squid fishing were well thought out and planned to perfection.
Hoi An Hoi An, midway up the country on the coast, is a very relaxing, quaint old town, with an eclectic array of shops, cafes and bars. It is known for its well-preserved ancient town and canals. I was intrigued by Hoi An’s reputation for tailoring; a tradition that can be traced back to the 15th and 16th centuries when the town was a prosperous trading centre. The turnaround time for tailored clothing today is incredible, literally 24 hours from start to finish, and at a fraction of the price back home. The cooking class was really good fun, but the highlight for me was releasing a lantern. The locals light the lanterns to wish for good fortune, wealth, joy, health and fair weather, or they released them with a more personal wish.
Mekong Delta The Mekong Delta near the most south western point of the country is a maze of rivers, swamps and islands. Its floating markets, Khmer pagodas and villages surrounded by rice paddies make this a truly unique region. Once inside your lodge your Mekong Delta experience is all about complete serenity. However, as you enter the Mekong Delta from Saigon, the scenery changes dramatically and you become immersed in a completely different way of life. Getting caught in a torrential downpour with lightening and thunder was a highlight! The best way to explore this area is by boat. It was wonderful to take in the surroundings of the waterways in a canoe, wonder at the passing variety of locals in their boats and unwind for a day or two in the lodge to recharge the batteries. If you’re lucky enough to visit, make sure you stop off at the floating markets for a real insight into how the locals get by, or to watch some impromptu entertainment such as locals singing!
Ho Chi Minh City Better known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is the busiest city in Vietnam with a population of around 10 million. Here I found modern architecture mixed with historical buildings. There was so much culture and history to soak up, there was always something to do.
Foodies will love the variety of true Vietnamese street food along with contemporary dishes. The city has a skyline as good as anywhere in the world, and of course, if you are so inclined, you can shop till you drop.
For a moment of reflection, a visit to The War Remnant Museum is a must. It’s hard at times to take it all in, but it is an important visit for understanding the Vietnamese and their culture.
Everything is a first in Vietnam, and the impression it leaves will stay with you forever.
