Vietnam

"Vietnam. It grabs you and doesn’t let you go. Once you love it, you love it forever." - Anthony Bourdain

Welcome to Vietnam, a country quite capable of providing a life-long series of memories. We were so impressed after a one-day 'cruise tour' to Ho Chi Min City, we booked a two week vacation for the following year, exploring the length of this amazing country.

Quick Facts:

Our itinerary:

We did a package tour with TUI (UK). We flew into Phu Quoc for one night, then upto Hanoi for next day. Then we slowly worked our way South... 

Our Top 5 Highlights:

Hanoi:

Hanoi was great! We enjoyed the hustle and bustle of the streets, mixed in with the must see attractions like Ho Chi Minh's (HCM) mausoleum. Hanoi is more sedate (we thought) than Ho Chi Minh City (which you'll only appreciate if you visit both!). Read more...

Ha Long Bay:

Embark on a journey through the ethereal landscapes of Ha Long Bay. Cruise along emerald waters surrounded by towering limestone karsts. Don't miss the enchanting Sung Sot Cave and the opportunity to kayak amid nature's wonders. Allocate 1-2 days to fully immerse yourself in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Ho Chi Minh City:

Day Trip to Mekong Delta: Take a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City to the picturesque Mekong Delta. Navigate through lush waterways, explore vibrant floating markets, and experience rural life. Return to the city to discover historic gems like the Reunification Palace and bustling markets. Spend 2-3 days to capture the city's essence.

Must-Have Vietnamese Delicacies:

• Pho (pronounced "fuh") - A flavorful noodle soup.
• Banh Mi (pronounced "bahn mee") - A delicious baguette sandwich.
• Ca Phe Trung (Egg Coffee) - Originating in Hanoi, a unique coffee experience.
• Filter Coffee with Condensed Milk - A delightful sweet coffee drink.

Further Reading:

1. "Lonely Planet Vietnam" by Iain Stewart, Brett Atkinson, et al.
2. "Vietnam: A New History" by Christopher Goscha
3. "DK Eyewitness Vietnam and Angkor Wat" by DK Eyewitness
4. "The Quiet American" by Graham Greene (a novel set in Vietnam)
5. "Catfish and Mandala: A Two-Wheeled Voyage Through the Landscape and Memory of Vietnam" by Andrew X. Pham

Novel References:

"The Things They Carried" by Tim O'Brien
"A true war story is never moral. It does not instruct, nor encourage virtue, nor suggest models of proper human behavior, nor restrain men from doing the things men have always done."

"The Sorrow of War" by Bao Ninh
"I've walked that long road to freedom. I've tried not to falter; I have made missteps along the way. But I have discovered the secret that after climbing a great hill, one only finds that there are many more hills to climb."

Conclusion:

Our exploration of Vietnam took us on a journey of two captivating cities: Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Hanoi's historical charm and Ho Chi Minh City's vibrant energy left us enthralled. We loved Hanoi's Train Street, where shops and cafes coexist with passing trains, and we marveled at Ho Chi Minh City's dynamic pace and historic sites.

Ho Chi Minh City's allure captivated us so much that following a day trip, we embarked on a two-week adventure to Vietnam the following year. The convenience of modern and clean airports made our transfers seamless, leaving us yearning for more. Vietnam's beauty, culture, and warmth ensure that we would happily return for another remarkable journey. It's worth noting that each city offers a unique experience, and if time allows, visiting both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City is highly recommended. Don't miss the mesmerizing rush hour, where countless scooters and mopeds create a breathtaking spectacle that adds to the tapestry of Vietnam's charm.

Further Information:

For travel advice and information, visit the UK Government Travel Advice page for Vietnam and the Official Vietnamese Tourist Information page (English version). Embrace the magic of Vietnam's dual cities and their incomparable allure!