Exploring Traditions and Scenic Beauty
A Memorable Journey Through Vietnam: From Hà Nội to Ha Long Bay
In late October 2023, I embarked on a remarkable journey to Vietnam, a land of diverse landscapes and rich cultural tapestries. My adventure began in the bustling city of Hà Nội, where I stayed with my partner’s family, whose warmth and hospitality were the perfect introduction to Vietnamese culture.
Our travels took us to Da Nang, a city famed for its stunning beaches and vibrant life. There, we enjoyed sunbathing, swimming in the playful waves, and unwinding in our hotel’s rooftop pool under the stars. One of our most memorable excursions from Da Nang was a day trip to Ba Na Hills. After an exhilarating hour-and-a-half motorcycle ride, we were greeted by stunning views from atop the mountain. The journey up was marked by a long cable car ride, revealing the breathtaking landscape below. At the summit, the Golden Bridge, held aloft by giant stone hands, was an impressive sight, though our view was slightly obscured by clouds. Despite this, exploring the attractions at the top was an enjoyable experience, adding another layer of adventure to our trip.
Back in Da Nang, we also treated ourselves to its famous dragon show, where a metallic dragon on a bridge enthrals spectators with fire and water displays.
A day of adventure on motorbikes led us to the tranquil Lady Buddha, the unique coconut forest for an enchanting boat ride, and the historic town of Hoi An. Its charming streets, relaxing massages, and an evening boat ride with lanterns floating on the river were magical.
In Hà Nội, we experienced the solemnity of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, tasted the city’s renowned egg coffee, and felt the adrenaline rush of Train Street, where trains zoom past just inches away. We also enjoyed family moments, like bowling in a large shopping mall and celebrating a special birthday, highlighting the caring and hospitable nature of my partner’s family.
A unique cultural experience was attending the first day of a local wedding in the countryside, observing the bride’s celebration with her friends and family. It was a fascinating glimpse into the traditional Vietnamese wedding customs.
The highlight of our trip was a luxurious two-day cruise in the breathtaking Ha Long Bay. We explored majestic caves, tranquil beaches, and kayaked amid stunning limestone formations. The cruise, with its delicious meals and jacuzzi on the sundeck, was an indulgent experience. Watching the sunset from the deck was a moment of pure serenity. Exploring Ha Long town, we appreciated its cleanliness and organization and savored its famous frozen yogurt.
Traveling in a private minibus from Hà Nội and staying in a lovely AirBnB apartment with stunning views of the bay and town made our trip to Ha Long Bay unforgettable.
Throughout my stay, riding motorbikes in Vietnam’s organized chaos was exhilarating, a stark contrast to the UK’s orderly traffic. The warmth of my partner’s family and the fun, welcoming nature of his students made this journey an enriching experience of cultural immersion and scenic beauty. The trip culminated with a business class upgrade for my flight home, a luxurious end to an extraordinary Vietnamese adventure.
