Vietnam

Ah, Vietnam! The land of enchanting landscapes, tantalizing cuisine, and warm-hearted people. We've been bombarded with rave reviews from friends who've experienced its wonders firsthand, and this year, we decided it was high time we joined the party! So, off we went on our Vietnamese adventure!

Our journey kicked off on the 23rd of February and lasted till mid-March. Now, in Vietnam, that's prime time for summer vibes!

But here's the catch: we traversed from the southern reaches to the northern peaks, and let me tell you, the weather played some serious mind games.

Up north, it's all about chilly breezes and surprise showers, while down south, you're in for a hot and crispy experience.

Talk about a weather rollercoaster! So, note to self (and fellow travelers): make sure to double-check Vietnam's seasonal shenanigans before you pack your bags and embark on your own escapade.

With 18 days of adventure ahead, we were determined to squeeze every drop of excitement out of our Vietnam escapade. Armed with a thirst for exploration, we crafted an itinerary that promised a smorgasbord of experiences, from lazy beach days to heart-pumping hikes, serene cruises, and bustling city escapades. Here's the rundown of our action-packed agenda:

Flights

London to Singapore, followed by Singapore to Ho Chi Minh—a grand total of 15 hours of airborne adventures. Sure, it's a long haul, but hey, a quick pit stop in Singapore airport always adds a dash of excitement to the journey, right? 😉

Ho Chi Minh

Our plane touched down in the late afternoon, and we planned to soak up the city vibes until the following afternoon.

Knowing our aversion to chaotic urban jungles, we opted not to linger too long.

Yet, despite our reservations, Ho Chi Minh City won us over with its vibrant energy. It felt like a wild cousin of Bangkok, especially after dusk when the city cranked up the volume.

If you're in the mood for a rip-roaring good time, look no further than D Bui Vien it's the beating heart of the city's nightlife scene.

If, like us, you're not exactly itching to hit the party scene after a gruelling 15-hour flight, fear not!

Ho Chi Minh City has a sanctuary waiting for weary travellers like ourselves. Instead of hitting the clubs, we opted for a blissful retreat at Buda Tree Spa

Stepping into this tranquil oasis was like stepping into a haven of serenity. The staff welcomed us with open arms, and boy, did we need it! A soothing massage was the perfect antidote to jet lag and aching muscles.

For our inaugural breakfast in this bustling metropolis, we made a beeline for Little Hanoi Rumour had it they served up the finest egg coffee in town, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint.

But wait, there's more! The food? Absolutely delectable.

Located just a stone's throw from the city centre, this gem is easily accessible by foot.

So, if you're in the mood for a culinary delight that'll kick-start your day, look no further.

Other attractions in the city centre include a charming park bustling with local life.

We found ourselves strolling amidst a sea of locals, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

As luck would have it, this delightful park happens to be adjacent to the cathedral—a hidden gem well worth a quick visit if you happen to be in the vicinity.

So, whether you're in the mood for a leisurely walk among the locals or a moment of quiet reflection at the cathedral, the city center has something for everyone.

We hopped on a flight to Hue in the early afternoon, a quick two-hour journey.

Honestly, we weren't expecting much based on what we'd read online and heard from others.

But guess what? Hue surprised us in the best way possible! It turned out to be much better than we thought.

Who knew?

Hue, you're full of pleasant surprises!

Allow us to introduce you to the absolute gem of tranquillity in Hue: Vedana Resort

Nestled just a 40-minute car ride away from the airport.

This serene haven sits away from the city's hustle and bustle, yet close enough to a lagoon to add a touch of magic to your stay.

From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warmth and care by the lovely staff, who seemed to anticipate our every need. It felt like being wrapped in a cozy blanket from start to finish.

The resort offers a variety of accommodations to suit every preference, and its expansive grounds can be explored either by bicycle (provided by the resort) or by summoning their electric car service from reception for a leisurely ride.

And oh, let's not forget about the indulgent spa nestled within the resort's grounds, offering a range of luxurious services and packages to pamper yourself silly

But wait, there's more! The resort organizes fantastic activities such as yoga and Tai Chi classes with breath-taking views of the lagoon. Trust us, you don't want to miss out on this serene experience.

Calling all fellow food enthusiasts! Brace yourselves for the ultimate breakfast experience at Vedana.

Picture this: a vast breakfast buffet overflowing with a plethora of delectable options to tantalize your taste buds.

Trust us, you'll be spoiled for choice, and every bite is absolutely delightful!

The culinary adventure continues at the resort's restaurant, where you'll find a delightful blend of local specialties and Western favourites.

Whether you're craving some authentic Hue cuisine or longing for a taste of home, this restaurant has got you covered.

And let's not forget about the ambiance – it's as charming as can be, with the staff going above and beyond to make you feel right at home.

So, get ready to embark on a gastronomic journey like no other at Vedana Resort 

Hue

Following our energizing yoga session and a hearty breakfast, we ventured out to explore the wonders of Hue.

Our first destination? The majestic Kien Trung This grand palace truly lives up to its name, boasting impressive size and a plethora of captivating attractions waiting to be discovered within its walls.

Once inside, we found ourselves immersed in history, surrounded by an array of fascinating sights.

The highlight undoubtedly was the palace itself, a magnificent structure adorned with vibrant colours that mesmerized us at every turn. Stepping through its gates felt like entering a realm where time stood still, allowing us to soak in the beauty and grandeur of centuries past.

Alright, hold onto your hats, folks, because after our royal rendezvous at the palace, we revved up our engines and zoomed over to the Thien Mu Pagoda. Let me tell you, it’s a must-visit spot! Not only do you get a killer view of the river and the city from up high, but it’s also the perfect place to strike your best "enlightened traveller" pose for the 'gram.

Oh, and here’s a pro tip: if you're feeling adventurous, hop on a motorbike and embrace your inner explorer! You’ll be zipping through the city like a local in no time.

Picture this: majestic temples perched atop hills, beckoning you with their ancient allure.

And guess what? You simply can’t miss the abandoned game park, aka the infamous Ho Thuy Tien which has been causing a stir on Instagram. It’s like stumbling upon a real-life treasure hunt – except the treasure is the quirky, offbeat experience itself!

So, there you have it, fellow travellers! Get ready to rev your engines, strike your best poses, and dive headfirst into the unexpected wonders of Hue.

Who knew history and adventure could be this much fun? 🏍️✨

Wrapping up our day, we landed in the city center and treated ourselves to a late lunch in the city where we savored authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

Admittedly, jet lag had us in its grip, and the day's adventures left us feeling weary. So, instead of diving into Hue's nightlife, we opted for a cozy retreat back to the hotel. Sometimes, a good night's sleep is the best way to recharge for more adventures ahead!

Da Nang

Off to Da Nang we go! because this is where the real adventure kicks in! Da Nang is renowned for its stunning attractions that are an absolute must-see.

To get to Da Nang, we hopped into a taxi from Hue, and after about 2 hours on the road, we arrived. However, luck wasn't on our side as rain greeted us in Da Nang too.

But fear not, because every cloud has a silver lining, or in our case, a motorbike rental!

With a quick change of plans, we zipped off on our trusty motorbike towards Marble Mountain. And let me tell you, it was nothing short of spectacular! The park was bustling with activity, but its vastness made it feel like we had the place to ourselves.

Sure, there's an entrance fee, but trust us when we say it's worth every penny.

The mountain is a labyrinth of caves adorned with altars and religious statues at every turn.

It's like stepping into a mystical world where adventure awaits around every corner!

You can also conquer the summit of the highest mountain!

Get ready for a challenging hike, but trust me, the breath-taking view of the city from up there makes every step worth it.

It's like reaching the pinnacle of adventure and being rewarded with a stunning panorama of Da Nang sprawled below you.

When the sun sets in Da Nang, the city truly comes alive!

Rooftop bars offer the perfect setting for happy hour, where you can sip on your favorite drinks and soak in the mesmerizing sunset over the cityscape like the Sala Danang Hotel

For those craving a taste of local culture, night markets are the place to be, a nice one in the city is Khu Ẩm thực

While we opted out of dining there to dodge any potential food mishaps, the markets are a haven for the adventurous foodies out there.

Picture bustling food streets teeming with an array of tempting choices – if you're feeling brave, dive right in and let your taste buds lead the way! After all, what's a journey without a bit of culinary exploration?

On our second day in Da Nang, our first stop was at Waffle Factory for some gluten-free waffles and pancakes and then we embarked on an adventure to visit Lady Buddha and Monkey Mountain – talk about excitement!

Opting for the motorbike proved to be a stroke of genius, as we cruised along the coastal road, treated to magnificent sea views at every turn. Plus, being on two wheels meant we had the freedom to set our own pace and linger wherever our hearts desired. Who knew sightseeing could be this exhilarating?

Lady Buddha stole our hearts with her serene presence – she's definitely a highlight of our trip! The park surrounding her is a true gem, meticulously maintained and brimming with beauty at every corner. And guess what?

Right nearby, we stumbled upon the charming Pagoda Thap Xa Loi

It was a pleasant surprise, as it offered a quieter, more intimate atmosphere compared to the bustling crowds elsewhere.

Plus, right in front of it, we discovered a unique sight: a reclining version of Lady Buddha, adding an extra layer of intrigue to our visit.

It's moments like these that make traveling so special – unexpected discoveries tucked away in the most serene corners of the world.

Monkey Mountain lived up to its name in every way possible – and then some! As we ventured up the winding roads, we couldn't help but notice our furry friends, the monkeys, making mischief along the way. Cute? Absolutely.

But let's just say they've perfected the art of playful antics! Remember folks, always keep an eye out – those mischievous monkeys might just surprise you when you least expect it!

 After a morning filled with exploration, we eagerly made our way to the Ba Na Hills Sun World after lunch.

We'd seen countless pictures of this iconic bridge and couldn't wait to experience it firsthand. With ticket prices around £20 each, we were prepared for an unforgettable sightseeing adventure.

However, upon reaching the top via cable car, we were met with a surprising realization turned out to be a park themed around a French city, complete with artificial replicas.

Unfortunately, this meant that our much-anticipated Golden Bridge was also a man-made creation, leaving us feeling a tad disappointed.

Cham Island

With Ba Na Hill behind us, our adventure in Da Nang came to a close, and our compass pointed us towards the tranquil shores of Cham Island.

Vietnam's diverse landscapes tempted us, but with limited time on our hands, we had to cherry-pick our destinations. Cham Island,

conveniently nestled near Hoi An and Da Nang, won our hearts for its accessibility.

Boarding a ferry from Hoi An, we embarked on a mere 20-minute journey to this petite paradise.

Cham Island may be small, but it packs a punch of serenity.

Beach options are somewhat scarce, with only one accessible side, but hey, quality over quantity, right? So, we decided one day and one night was just the perfect dosage of island bliss for us.

The port town welcomed us with open arms, offering a handful of charming local eateries where we refueled for our beach escapades. Our accommodation, a cozy Airbnb, was an absolute gem, complete with a delightful host who added an extra sprinkle of warmth to our stay.

In hindsight, Cham Island was exactly what we needed after the whirlwind of the past four days. A slice of pure relaxation served on a tropical platter.

And let's not forget, sometimes less is more – especially when it comes to selecting the perfect island retreat.

Hoi An

Back to the hustle and bustle of city life! Our plan to savour every last moment on Cham Island got a slight shake-up thanks to Mother Nature throwing a curveball our way.

With weather and sea conditions giving us a gentle nudge, we found ourselves hopping on the 7 am ferry instead of our planned 1 pm departure.

Flexibility is key when traveling, folks!

Touching down at the port in Hoi An bright and early at 9:30 am, we were greeted with glorious weather and a whole day ahead of us. Thank you, universe!

Navigating around Hoi An was a breeze. Taxis were plentiful, and we found Grab (the Asian Uber) to be a convenient and pocket-friendly option for shorter rides. Pro-tip:

When time isn't on your side, keeping an open line of communication with locals can save the day.

With three days ahead of us in Hoi An, we opted for the trusty motorbike rental, zipping through the charming streets with ease.

Of course, if you're more inclined towards pedal power, bicycles are readily available for rent too.

Hoi An, oh Hoi An! A city that stole our hearts and held onto them tight.

Nature, nightlife, and a symphony of culinary delights – Hoi An effortlessly blends it all, leaving us utterly smitten.

Ah, yes, the legendary city of tailors – Hoi An, where dreams are stitched into reality! As you approach the city center, it's like stepping into a fashion wonderland, with shops galore offering bespoke clothing and shoes.

It's a sight to behold, unlike anything we've ever seen before!

Eager to dive into this sartorial adventure, we wasted no time and made a beeline for one of these tailor shops as soon as we hit town.

The process was a breeze: choose your shop (spoiler alert: they're all brimming with mannequins showcasing endless style possibilities), show them your desired look, get measured up, select your fabric, hash out the details, and voilà! Your custom creation will be ready during the evening, just in time to savour the famous Po, a vietnamese soup made with rice noodles at The Noodle House

What's truly remarkable is the turnaround time – next day delivery, folks! Yes, you heard that right. It's like magic, but with threads and needles instead of wands. So, if you've ever dreamed of strutting around in your very own custom-made attire, Hoi An is the place to make it happen – and in the blink of an eye!

During our three-day stay in Hoi An, we found the city to offer a plethora of activities catering to various tastes. Hoi An stand out as a holistic destination, boasting serene cafes perfect for unwinding over delicious Vietnamese coffee, tranquil rice fields enveloping the city, vibrant street markets for indulging in shopping, and charming nearby villages like the coconut village waiting to be explored.

By the way we had an amazing experience at the coconut village where you can ride a famous coconut boat in the river, it definitely is a pretty touristic situation, but if you go with Đảo Dừa Xanh they will be able to go outside the tourist route and give you a more private experience.

One of the highlights of our culinary adventures was discovering a quaint restaurant Hiệu Vải Thời Trang, which left such an impression on us that we found ourselves returning for seconds. The culinary delights of Hoi An are not to be missed, particularly the delectable dumplings that left our taste buds in awe. What makes this dining experience truly remarkable is the open kitchen concept, where diners can witness the meticulous preparation of each dish right before their eyes, resulting in fresh and flavourful meals that are simply unmatched.

Indeed, the enchanting atmosphere that envelops Hoi An by night is simply mesmerizing.

As dusk falls, the city transforms into a picturesque scene illuminated by the soft glow of countless lanterns adorning boats and lining the riverbanks. The vibrant colours dancing upon the water's surface creates a captivating spectacle, while the gentle hum of activity adds to the magical ambiance. It's a truly unforgettable experience that encapsulates the essence of Hoi An's charm and allure.

Without a doubt, I've emphasized it enough, but it bears repeating: Hoi An is an absolute must-visit destination!

Ninh Binh

From Hoi An, our journey continued with a flight to Ninh Binh. Arriving in the evening, we wasted no time immersing ourselves in the local culture. For our first night, we embarked on a 15-minute motorbike ride to visit the enchanting Hồ Kỳ Lân The illuminated temples cast a magical glow, captivating us with their beauty and serenity.

Next to the canal, there are a few food markets, making it a lovely spot to spend your evening if you prefer quieter places. The atmosphere is really calm, and the temples sitting in the middle of the river make it even more special.

Overall, the center of Ninh Binh is bustling with restaurants and venues catering to the lively nightlife scene.

However, it wasn't quite our cup of tea. The area is heavily touristic, and if you're not into partying, there isn't much else to do. But hey, if nightlife is your thing, then this might be exactly what you're after!

A tip for exploring Ninh Binh: the mornings can be quite foggy, so it's wise to start your day with a leisurely breakfast.

We learned this from experience when we set out from our hotel at 7 am to visit Trang An only to find the fog too thick for sightseeing. However, we stumbled upon a charming coffee spot near Bich Dong Pagoda where we enjoyed our coffees.

As we savored our drinks, the sun broke through the fog, revealing a breathtaking view around us. It was a truly magical moment.

With the sky clear and the sun warming our faces, we made our way to Trang An Our expectations were high, and truth be told, this park exceeded them all.

The park is extensive, offering three distinct tours, each with its own unique sights. Tour 2 tends to be the most popular, known for its scenic beauty and occasional glimpses of King Kong filming locations. However, it can get quite crowded, depending on the time of day. We decided to go for tour 1, which focuses mainly on cave exploration, aligning with our preferences. Since this tour is less popular, we relished the opportunity to enjoy the views all to ourselves, making the experience even more special.

It was an incredible experience! Lasting about 2 hours, the tour was filled with awe-inspiring moments.

We explored magnificent caves and stumbled upon extraordinary temples nestled within the wild landscape.

Each discovery along the way added to the magic of the journey.

After the tour concluded, our appetites were calling, so we decided to dine at Riverside Restaurant We were pleasantly surprised by the serene ambiance and picturesque views surrounding us. However, the real highlight was the food – it was not only tasty but also incredibly fresh.

Right after we managed to go to the famous Mua Cave for a beautiful view of the rivers below

It might sound a bit unconventional, but

we decided to embark on tour 3 in the late afternoon, once the crowds had dispersed. Tour 3 offered its own unique charm, with fewer caves compared to tour 1 but featuring the highlight of entering the longest cave, spanning 1km, and showcasing more temples along the way. Despite the differences, it was a delightful experience, adding another layer of beauty to our day in Ninh Binh.

As our day in Ninh Binh drew to a close, we knew we had a long journey ahead. You've likely heard of the famous sleeping buses in Vietnam, and we decided to give them a try.

From our hotel, we took a bus to Hanoi, where we had just enough time for a quick dinner before heading to the stop for our sleeping bus.

With numerous companies offering sleeping bus services, it was a bit challenging to find the perfect one. We wanted a comfortable ride with good service, and with so many conflicting online reviews, it was a tough decision.

The trip was pleasant, the bus was clean and not overly crowded, allowing us to actually get some sleep on our way to Sa Pa.

Sa Pa

What an adventure indeed! It was our first time trying something like this, but I must say, we really nailed it!

The first day in Sa Pa was absolutely incredible! I had been eagerly anticipating our visit, and we were greeted with the most breath-taking sunrise painted in intense shades of red. Can you imagine a better way to kick off the day? It was truly a magical start to our Sa Pa adventure.

We found that taking the overnight sleeping bus was incredibly convenient, as it allowed us to arrive in Sa Pa at 5 am. After dropping off our belongings at the hotel, we had the entire day ahead of us. Luckily, the weather was stunning with not a single cloud in the sky and pleasantly warm temperatures.

Taking advantage of the beautiful day, we rented a motorbike and set out to explore the surroundings.

One highlight of our day was visiting the  Vườn Vô Cực which offered a breathtaking view overlooking the rice fields. We enjoyed cold drinks while taking in the scenery.

The bar provided some lovely spots to relax and capture great shots for our social media.

Exploring the city center, we found it to be bustling with activity, though slightly chaotic due to its concentration of attractions.

Nevertheless, the main square was charming, and there were plenty of shops and restaurants where we could unwind and savor some delicious Vietnamese specialties.

For lunch, we decided on Sailing Sa Pa and we were blown away by the experience.

The view from the restaurant was absolutely stunning, with different terraces offering tables facing the river and the rice fields below.

The food was equally impressive, with a wide variety of options to choose from. It was definitely a dining experience worth trying! 

Additionally, we discovered that the river and rice fields were easily accessible from our hotel via a simple path that led to the riverbank, where local children were enjoying themselves.

For dinner, we opted to dine in the city center, where, as mentioned earlier, there is an abundance of dining options.

At night, the main square comes alive with street artists dancing and performing, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

However, one aspect that left us unsettled was the sight of young children being placed in the square to dance and attract tourists in order to earn money. While we empathize with the challenges faced by some local families, witnessing these young girls dancing for money didn't sit well with us.

A visit to Sa Pa wouldn't be complete without embarking on a trekking adventure! We were fortunate to find the perfect tour guide Vang T Pang who crafted an incredible tour for us, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the local culture and discover breathtaking locations.

Our tour began at 9 am and concluded at 4 pm, providing us with a full day of exploration.

However, for those with more time to spare and a passion for trekking, it's possible to arrange longer tours with the guides. These extended tours can last from 3 to 5 days and include overnight stays in tents, offering a truly immersive experience in the beauty of the Sa Pa region.

On the other hand, if you're traveling with kids, there's no need to worry. The guides are adept at planning accessible tours tailored to families, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the trekking experience to the fullest.

The trekking tour is entirely customizable based on your preferences and needs. You have the freedom to discuss your interests and requirements with the tour guide, who will then tailor the experience to create the perfect combination for you. Whether you have specific sights you'd like to see or certain accommodations you require, the tour guide will work with you to ensure your trekking experience is exactly what you desire.

We had an incredible trekking day that left us feeling utterly enchanted! Walking amidst the serene forests and lush rice fields provided a sense of tranquility, while also allowing us to delve deeper into the local traditions and cultures. Our guide, La was an absolute gem - not only was she sweet and accommodating, but her excellent command of English made communication effortless.

She shared invaluable insights into her culture, enriching our experience and leaving us with lasting memories.

The weather on our trekking day wasn't as sunny as the previous day, but oddly enough, it worked in our favor since we were walking all day.

It's worth noting that when visiting Sa Pa, it's essential to pack suitable clothing for trekking and be prepared for unpredictable weather. The evenings and early mornings can often be chilly and foggy, so having layers and weather-resistant gear is advisable.

If you're wondering whether Sa Pa is worth a visit, the answer is a resounding yes, yes, and yes!

Hanoi

Reached Hanoi with a sleeping bus from Sa Pa and we spent there 1 day and 1 night.

Our plan for the day was very simple as we didn’t have much time on our hands.

In the morning we planned our day to explore Train Street and the Incense Village. Our guide was fantastic, displaying a deep passion for sharing insights about Hanoi and the intricate process of producing incense, which holds significant cultural importance.

Train Street, nestled in the heart of Hanoi, offers a unique experience. As you enjoy a cup of coffee, you'll be alerted when the train is approaching, and it passes incredibly close by - just a palm's breadth away. The experience is truly exhilarating and somewhat surreal!

The Incense Village was a short 20-minute ride from the city center, although we encountered some cloudy and rainy weather along the way - a typical hiccup of travel. Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted by the family who owned the business.

They graciously guided us through the intricate process of handcrafting incense sticks, allowing us to witness each step firsthand. To our delight, we even had the opportunity to try our hand at creating our own incense sticks!

It was fascinating to observe the meticulous manual labor involved in the production process.

Despite the advent of modern technology, many aspects of the process remain deeply rooted in tradition.

As a memorable finale, we enjoyed snapping some playful photos amidst the colorful display of incense sticks arranged on the floor, which, when viewed from above, formed captivating images.

The nightlife in Hanoi is electric, especially on a Saturday night. We were fortunate to experience the city buzzing with energy, with music filling the air and people dancing joyfully in the streets.

Everywhere we turned, vibrant markets offered an array of goods, and tantalizing food stalls tempted us with their delicious offerings. It was a lively and unforgettable scene that truly showcased the vibrant spirit of Hanoi at night.

Ha Long Bay

Early the next morning, we boarded a coach bound for Ha Long Bay a destination we had eagerly anticipated visiting. With high hopes of favorable weather, we set off, only to find ourselves greeted by less-than-ideal conditions upon arrival.

It's worth noting that during the first weeks of March, warm and sunny weather is rare in Ha Long Bay, situated in the northern region of Vietnam, as the summer season is just beginning.

The bus ride to Ha Long Bay lasted approximately 2 hours, and we opted to travel with Hermes Cruise, which provided us with a memorable experience.

About halfway through, there was a 30-minute break, which may slightly delay the overall journey time. However, this break took place at a coach station equipped with a café, where food and drinks were available, along with restroom facilities.

It offered a convenient opportunity to stretch our legs and refresh ourselves before continuing the journey.

The coach conveniently stopped at the cruise terminal upon arrival, allowing passengers who had planned to embark on a cruise the same day to board directly.

However, for us, we had opted not to embark on a cruise immediately. Instead, we had booked a delightful villa where we could unwind and relax, especially after a couple of intense days of exploration.

This provided us with the perfect opportunity to recharge and enjoy a more leisurely pace.

The city center of Ha Long Bay is conveniently close to the pier, making it easily accessible by taxi or motorbike. Here, you can explore vibrant night markets and enjoy beach parties. However, the area around the pier itself appears to be mainly residential, offering fewer attractions for visitors.

When planning a visit to Ha Long Bay, you'll find two main options: a cruise or a boat tour. The choice depends on your available time and how much you wish to immerse yourself in the experience.

For us, we opted for a 2-day, 1-night cruise with Hermes, the same company we traveled with by bus. It was a new adventure for us, and we wanted to fully savor Ha Long Bay without feeling rushed.

Various companies offer similar services and activities, catering to different budgets. Our experience with Hermes Cruise was exceptional. The ship was immaculate and spacious, and our room was cozy with a charming terrace offering private views to unwind and relax.

Upon check-in, we received a daily planner and a warm introduction to the team. Lunch was served on the top floor, offering a delectable variety of dishes.

Our first activity was a visit to the cave, which, although a bit crowded, offered impressive views from the top.

Following the excursion to the Sung Sot Cave our next stop was the lagoon, where we had the option to explore either by kayak or on a group boat.

While the lagoon was pleasant and spacious, we couldn't help but draw comparisons to the stunning lagoons we had visited in the Philippines. In our view, they set a high standard that was difficult to match.

Following this, we enjoyed a happy hour and a cooking class on the boat. The cooking class, where we learned to make spring rolls, was particularly enjoyable, fostering a sense of camaraderie among guests.

While these activities were available, they were not mandatory. Guests could also choose to simply enjoy the peace and comfort of their rooms onboard

Dinner was also great. For this they offered us a set menu with 3 different courses and it was a good mix of Asian and European dishes. Staff was welcoming and helped to create a nice atmosphere around us.

Breakfast is typically served early, followed by an excursion to the

From the top, you're treated to a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding Ha Long Bay.

Though the climb involves numerous steps, the reward of the stunning view makes it worthwhile.

On the way back, you have the option to enjoy the beach, but our experience was marred by another cloudy day.

Furthermore, we found the water quality less than desirable due to the large number of boats in the area, so we opted not to venture into the water.

For those seeking a longer experience, there's the option to embark on a 2-night cruise, which offers a different set of activities.

For us, the Ti Top ISland excursion marked the conclusion of our time in Ha Long Bay. We then made our way back to the pier, enjoying a leisurely brunch on the cruise as we departed.

As we neared the end of our trip, our next stop was Hanoi. With just one day left to explore the city, we made the most of it by visiting the Ngoc Son Pagoda and soaking in the beauty of our final Vietnamese sunset from one of Hanoi's rooftop vantage points.

We continued our exploration of the city on our scooter, relishing the sights, sounds, and flavors of Vietnam. Pausing at a charming café, we enjoyed a leisurely breakfast, immersing ourselves in the local culture with each sip of coffee.

As we meandered through the bustling streets, we encountered friendly locals and stumbled upon hidden gems around every corner.

With each moment, we felt more deeply connected to the vibrant tapestry of Vietnamese life.

Reluctantly, we said goodbye to the city, grateful for the memories we had made.

It was the perfect farewell to a remarkable country, a morning filled with adventure and the essence of Vietnam.