If you were to look at Vietnam on the map, you would find it difficult to properly make out its shape along the vast Asian continent, and yet it is a fascinating, diverse and history-laden country. Located in the eastern edge of mainland Southeast Asia, it is undoubtedly a land of rich history, with stunning landscapes and dynamic cities and is a destination that appeals to travellers with open arms.
This was close to what I had gone through when I recently embarked on a 10-day journey across Vietnam, covering Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). All thanks to Praxis Holidays, a Luxury Travel and Tour Operator in India, whose overall planning and management was excellent, and I can’t wait to share my experience of the same.
Day 1-3: Hanoi – The Heart of Vietnam
First Impressions of Hanoi
While deboarding the plane in Hanoi, you might feel like stepping into a whole new world, and you would be right to assume so. The air, filled with the aroma of street food and the bustling energy of scooters zipping through the narrow streets, ought to give anyone an instant adrenaline rush, as it did for me.
Exploring the Old Quarter
The Old Quarter was an incredible spot with streets which was lined with colonial architecture, street vendors, and you should try out the frothy egg coffee at Cafe Giang. Egg coffee mixes a sort of creamy custard with robust Vietnamese coffee, which to me was a highlight of this place.
Hoan Kiem Lake: A Peaceful Escape
Need an escape from the hustle of the Old Quarter? A short walk from there should bring you to Hoan Kiem Lake. When I visited it in the early morning, there were locals who were practising Tai Chi, and the way it blended with the surroundings created a serene atmosphere that was worlds apart from the chaos earlier, so I suggest doing the same.
Also worth noting is the iconic red bridge leading to Ngoc Son Temple, which is a perfect spot for photos. The temple is on an island, and the bridge is the only way in on foot.
A Taste of Hanoi: Street Food Heaven
A foreign trip would have been incomplete without indulging in its street food. So I made it a point to try as many local dishes as possible, without going overboard by overeating.
The first and most common of them all will most likely be Pho (pronounced ‘fuh’), a fragrant noodle soup with tender beef and fresh herbs, which had become like a daily ritual for me.
Then came bun cha, a dish of grilled pork served with vermicelli noodles and a tangy dipping sauce.
Day 4-5: Halong Bay – A Natural Wonder
Setting Sail Through the Limestone Karsts
Halong Bay, which was next on my bucket list, did not disappoint me at all. Booking a 2-day, 1-night cruise with a mid-range company was genuinely worth it. Seeing the boat glide through the emerald waters, the towering limestone karsts that seemed to rise dramatically from the sea mesmerised me, even as an idle viewer.
These limestone karsts are formed when the bedrock dissolves, creating these types of landforms and landscapes.
Opting for a Luxury Travel and Tour Operator, like I did, can elevate this experience immensely, thereby offering private guided tours and premium kayaking routes to explore the most secluded spots in Halong Bay so that you can maximise the benefits of your trip abroad.
Day 6-10: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – The Pulse of Vietnam
The Energy of Saigon
Ho Chi Minh City, otherwise known as Saigon, is in complete contrast to Hanoi. It has the pulsing energy of a metropolis where ancient temples are right alongside sleek skyscrapers. My stay over there ensured I was within walking distance, as it is the heart of the city.
The War Remnants Museum:
The War Remnants Museum, as you might have guessed, presented a sobering perspective on the Vietnam War via impactful photographs and displays. It’s a challenging visit, but also an undeniably crucial one, as it allows us to learn Vietnam’s history and strength in difficult times.
Ben Thanh Market:
On a lighter note, I strolled through Ben Thanh Market to experience Vietnam’s local culture, from aromatic spices to artisanal souvenirs; the market presented a sensory feast to my foreign senses.
My negotiation skills were subpar though, so I ended up leaving with several lovely silk scarves and a hand-painted ceramic, both of which I certainly don’t regret purchasing and the bowl itself now proudly resides on my kitchen shelf.
Cu Chi Tunnels:
A day’s excursion to the Cu Chi Tunnels can be a potentially essential viewing for history enthusiasts. Navigating the cramped, subterranean passages utilised by the Viet Cong during the conflict, one can only wonder how these people fought in such conditions, even won in the end.
Culinary Explorations in Saigon
The street cuisine in Saigon is delicious, as are most exotic foods to my foreign tongue. The banh mi, a renowned Vietnamese sandwich, was irresistible, and it was followed by com tam (broken rice), whose accompaniments were grilled pork, pickled veggies, and a fried egg.
My participation in a community food tour one night easily became one of my best choices, and I believe it’s the simplest method to uncover hidden treasures and popular local spots.
Final Thoughts
I feel that it would be a significant understatement if I were to say that my experience in Vietnam was truly remarkable. A lot of praise should go to the Luxury Travel and Tour Operator called Praxis Holidays, which made my Vietnam stay and experience memorable, worthwhile and without untoward incidents or unwanted surprises like long delays. It might be worth considering them for the other tourist destinations that they offer on their website.
The historic lanes of Hanoi,the pleasant and idyllic viewing of Halong Bay and the vibrant pulse of Ho Chi Minh City, each instant felt like an exploration. I could go on, but I won’t spoil more for eager thrill seekers and travel enthusiasts.
Vietnam is a nation that embraces you warmly, delights your palate with exceptional tastes, and provides you with tales to cherish for eternity. I was only aware of Vietnam from a historical point of view, but that changed with this particular visit. If Vietnam isn’t included in your travel plans yet, it’s time to rectify that.
