My Vietnam trip just began with curiosity. When I first decided to visit there, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. In 2024, I had visited Beijing, where I fell in love with the people’s respect and the harmony of Confucian principles. I wondered if I might find echoes of those values in Vietnam, and it wasn’t long before the country not only answered my curiosity but left me with memories I’ll carry forever.
This blog is my attempt to capture the sights, sounds, emotions, and encounters from my Vietnam trip. It’s not polished or perfect, but it’s real, just like the places I experienced, one day at a time.
Day 1: Touching Down in Hanoi
The adventure of my Vietnam trip began as soon as I landed in Hanoi. Stepping off the plane, my first impressions were of the distinct humid heat and an indescribable smell, that combination of life’s details stored in my memory or perhaps something in my genes.
The travel agency had arranged for a driver to greet me, holding a sign with my name. It was comforting that is organized in a way that reminded me of my PUM travel days. The drive to the hotel showcased broad roads lined with beautiful yellow buildings. I was struck by how spacious Hanoi felt, a design envisioned decades ago by Ho Chi Minh to accommodate future visitors.
After a quick dinner at the hotel, sleep called me early. I’d wake in the middle of the night, make a decaf coffee, and start documenting my first impressions. Something about reliving the day through writing felt cathartic, which sets the tone for a deeply reflective trip.
Day 2: From the Mausoleum to Train Street
The next morning began with a guided tour of Hanoi. Marcus, my guide, was a fountain of knowledge, leading me first to Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum. It’s a vast complex, solemn in its grandeur, where the story of Vietnam’s unity comes alive.
The Mausoleum was followed by the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university and a treasure of ancient knowledge. Its structure reminded me of Chinese temple complexes where gates leading to courtyards in a sequence that symbolized progress from one stage of learning to the next.
We ended the day at Train Street, a narrow alley where train tracks run between homes, cafes, and life itself. Tourists gathered at just the right time to feel the rumble of a passing train. Marcus’s meticulous planning ensured we didn’t miss it, which is one of many moments where I appreciated the care behind this itinerary.
Lunch was, of course, a bowl of pho that is a staple I’d been excited to revisit since my first experience with it in California years ago. It was hot, fresh, and perfect.
Day 3: Cooking the Vietnamese Way
For me, the cooking class was an absolute highlight. Anne, our hostess, brought us, me and two participants from London, to a small greengrocer to gather fresh ingredients for our Vietnamese dishes: Mixed Pho Salad, Pho Rolls, Fried Spring Rolls, Papaya Salad, and Vietnamese Egg Coffee.
The process was hands-on, fun, and surprisingly intensive. Making egg coffee stood out: whisking the egg yolks to a creamy consistency, blending them with condensed milk, and layering the mixture over rich coffee. It tasted like dessert in a cup.
What struck me most was how much patience and care went into every dish. Anne’s attention to detail and encouragement made it easy to keep up. By the end, we shared the meal, certificates in hand, and conversations that made me feel like part of something even greater than the food itself.
Day 4: Pottery and Reflection
The next day brought us to Bat Trang Village, known for its pottery. The 45-minute drive gave me time to chat with Thinh, my guide, about Vietnam’s history and culture. Bat Trang itself was fascinating where streets lined with ceramic shops and endless displays of stunning pottery handcrafted for local use.
I even tried my hand at making a small vase. Let’s just say it didn’t turn out museum-worthy, but it was a fun experience nonetheless. The act of creating something made me appreciate the skill and tradition behind the craft even more.
Later, I visited Hoa Lo Prison, known as the “Hanoi Hilton” during the Vietnam War. Its somber atmosphere left a mark. Seeing remnants of France’s colonial rule and the brutality of war made me reflect deeply on the resilience of Vietnam and the importance of freedom.
Days 6-8: The Charm of Hoi An
When I arrived in Hoi An, it felt like stepping into a postcard. The town exudes charm, with its yellow-painted houses, ancient architecture, and streets illuminated by colorful lanterns at night.
One memorable outing was a visit to a nearby farming village. Walking through the vegetable gardens with the locals, picking fresh produce, and cooking a meal together made me feel connected in a deeply human way. It wasn’t just an activity but it was an invitation into their world, and one I’ll cherish forever.
Back in town, I tried my hand at the art of lantern-making. Under the guidance of a patient craftswoman, I managed to make my very own lantern. It might not have been perfect, but it was mine, and every time I look at it, I’ll remember the laughter and kindness of my teacher. Hoi An became one of the most memorable parts of my Vietnam trip, thanks to its peaceful atmosphere and warm local people.
Day 9: Sustainable Farming and Beach Serenity in Hoi An
Hoi An is more than just charming streets and colorful lanterns, it’s surrounded by beautiful countryside and pristine beaches. On my ninth day in Vietnam, I explored both.
The morning started with a visit to a local organic vegetable farm. This wasn’t just a garden, it was a commitment to sustainability. Farmers here only use buffalo manure and minimal machinery, staying as close to natural farming as possible. Seeing how much care and effort goes into growing the ingredients that end up in markets and on plates made me appreciate Vietnamese food even more.
After that, I hopped in one of the hotel’s electric buggies and headed to An Bang Beach. The ride itself was part of the experience, giving me time to take in the scenery and enjoy the warm breeze. At the beach, I treated myself to a mango drink at the Shore Club. The relaxed atmosphere and the sound of waves were the perfect ways to unwind after a few busy days.
The day ended with another walk around Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets. Even on a regular Tuesday evening, the town was buzzing with energy. I remember sitting there thinking how strange it was that a town so full of tourists could still feel peaceful.
Days 10–15: Final Moments of My Vietnam Trip in Saigon
As my Vietnam trip came closer to its end, Ho Chi Minh City offered a completely different energy from Hanoi and Hoi An.
The Reunification Palace, a symbol of Vietnam’s unity, and the Cu Chi Tunnels, remnants of its history, showed a country that’s not just moving forward but understanding where it has come from.
One quiet moment stood out: sitting on the rooftop of my hotel during Happy Hour, gazing at the Saigon skyline. The tropical evening, the distant hum of the city below. It was a perfect end to a trip that had given me so much to reflect on. This Vietnam trip exceeded every expectation I didn’t even know I had.
FAQs About Traveling in Vietnam
1. Is Hanoi a good destination for first-time travelers to Vietnam?
Absolutely. Hanoi is often considered one of the best places to begin a Vietnam trip because it blends history, culture, food, and local life so naturally. From landmarks like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature to the lively atmosphere of the Old Quarter and Train Street, the city gives travelers an authentic first impression of Vietnam. It’s busy and energetic, yet deeply cultural at the same time.
2. What are the must-try cultural experiences in Hoi An?
Hoi An offers many hands-on cultural activities that help travelers connect with local life beyond sightseeing. Popular experiences include lantern-making workshops, Vietnamese cooking classes, cycling through the countryside, and visiting organic farming villages. Many travelers also enjoy simply walking through the lantern-lit Ancient Town at night, where the atmosphere feels both peaceful and timeless.
3. Why is Train Street one of Hanoi’s most popular attractions?
Train Street has become famous because it offers a truly unique experience: a functioning train passing through an incredibly narrow residential alley lined with cafés and homes. Visitors gather to watch the train pass just a few feet away while local life continues around it. Beyond the excitement itself, the attraction reflects the vibrant and adaptable spirit of Hanoi’s street culture.
4. What can travelers expect from a cooking class in Vietnam?
Cooking classes in Vietnam are usually immersive and interactive rather than simple demonstrations. Many experiences begin with a local market visit where participants learn about fresh herbs, vegetables, and traditional ingredients before preparing authentic dishes themselves. Travelers often make classics such as spring rolls, pho rolls, papaya salad, or Vietnamese egg coffee while learning more about the country’s food culture and daily life.
5. Is Ho Chi Minh City worth visiting during a Vietnam journey?
Yes, Ho Chi Minh City offers a completely different atmosphere compared to Hanoi or Hoi An, with modern skyscrapers, lively nightlife, rooftop bars, and fast-paced energy. At the same time, the city is deeply connected to Vietnam’s history through landmarks like the Reunification Palace, the Central Post Office, and the Cu Chi Tunnels. For many travelers, it’s the perfect final stop to experience Vietnam’s dynamic contrast between past and present.
Vietnam exceeded every expectation I didn’t even know I had. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the peaceful waters of Ha Long Bay, the ancient charm of Hoi An to the vibrant energy of Saigon, this journey was a reminder of why I love to travel: for the connections, the moments of growth, and the stories that stay with you.
If you’d like to read about my experiences in even more detail, you can explore my full blog here.
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