MY VIETNAM

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Let me take you on a journey through Vietnam, where every turn reveals a new adventure! From the vibrant streets of Hanoi to the serene beaches of Phu Quoc, Vietnam dazzles with breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, rich history, and world-famous cuisine.

Here’s an overview of the highlights from my route through this incredible country:

1 Hanoi 2 Halong Bay 3 Hue 4 Da Nang 5 Hoi An 6 Can Tho 7 My Tho 8 Ho Chi Minh City 9 Phu Quoc

-> DISCLAIMER

I had to skip the north due to weather conditions—flooding and heavy rain made it not enjoyable. But if the weather allows, definitely go for it!

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1 Hanoi

Stay: 3 nights

Hanoi is often the first stop for travelers arriving in Vietnam, and the city makes a memorable first impression. With its lively, bustling streets and countless motorbikes, Hanoi is a city of contrasts and constant movement. I highly recommend staying in the Old Quarter, where the city’s pulse never slows. It’s the perfect place to sit at a sidewalk café and watch the energy of the city pass by. The atmosphere is full of character, and there’s no better place to immerse yourself in Vietnam’s vibrant street culture.

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From the hustle and bustle of Hanoi, we made our way to the tranquil beauty of Halong Bay.

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2 Halong Bay

Stay: 2 nights

Just a few hours from Hanoi, Halong Bay is a must-see destination that lives up to its reputation as one of Vietnam’s natural wonders. I booked a boat tour, spending two nights on board to fully enjoy the iconic limestone cliffs that rise dramatically from emerald-green waters. The transport from Hanoi to the port is often included in the tour, making the trip easy. Halong Bay offers a surreal, almost otherworldly atmosphere that’s best enjoyed at a slower pace, allowing you to soak in the views from the water.

If you're looking to explore Halong Bay, I recommend checking out this one.

https://www.centralbackpackershostel.com/halong-hideaway-cruise-02-day-01-night.html

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From Halong, I went back to Hanoi and then I flew south to Hue.

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3 Hue

Stay: 2 nights

Hue, located in central Vietnam, is known for its historic imperial architecture. While small and less busy, it offers a rich historical ambiance. The old imperial citadel, the Dong Ba Market or the Thien Mu Pagoda are some highlights. Two nights here were enough to see the key sites and get a feel for the city.

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A highlight of the visit was traveling from Hue to Da Nang via the Hai Van Pass. This scenic mountain route, with its sweeping coastal views, makes for an unforgettable drive.

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4 Da Nang

Stay: Day trip

Da Nang is a vibrant city on Vietnam’s central coast, and while we didn’t stay the night, we explored enough to get a feel for its diverse attractions. From beaches to mountains, Da Nang has it all. We stopped to see the Lady Buddha statue and enjoyed the coastal views. If you’re considering the famous 'Hand Bridge' note that it’s best seen on a clear day since fog can obscure the views. The city itself offers a mix of natural beauty and modern conveniences.

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Next, we made our way to Hoi An, just an hour from Da Nang and one of the true highlights of the trip.

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5 Hoi An

Stay: 3 nights

Hoi An was, without a doubt, my favorite destination in Vietnam. The ancient town is charming and beautiful, with its historic buildings, lantern-lit streets and picturesque canals.

I recommend staying near the Bà Mụ Temple, where everything is within walking or biking distance. Three nights allowed me to fully experience the enchanting Old Town, where narrow streets are filled with local shops, street food and vibrant colors.

When it comes to tours, I suggest booking them directly with the street vendors and negotiating a fair price. I visited to a local temple My son. Whether you’re looking to explore more temples, try your hand at a cooking class, or enjoy a boat ride along the river, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you busy in Hoi An.

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After Hoi An, I flew south to the Mekong Delta for a stay in Can Tho.

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6 Can Tho – Mekong Delta

Stay: 2 nights

Can Tho is the gateway to the Mekong Delta, a vast network of rivers and floating markets. The highlight here was an early morning tour of the Cai Rang Floating Market. At 5 a.m., I set off with a private guide to explore this unique market, where vendors sell their goods directly from boats. The market was lively and offered a fascinating glimpse into daily life on the Mekong.

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From Can Tho, I took a bus to My Tho for a quick stop on the way to Ho Chi Minh City.

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7 My Tho

Stay: 1 night

My Tho was a brief stopover, and the town itself doesn’t offer much beyond a few temples and views of the Mekong. It’s mainly a convenient point to break up the journey to Ho Chi Minh City.

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Also by bus we traveled onward to the dynamic energy of Ho Chi Minh City.

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8 Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Stay: 3 nights

Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon, is a modern, bustling city with a rich historical heritage. With its lively nightlife, shopping, and street food, the city is full of energy and excitement. There’s no shortage of museums and monuments here, which tell the story of Vietnam’s past, including its role in the Vietnam War. Three nights allowed me to enjoy the city’s diverse attractions, dive into Vietnam’s history, and experience the contrasts of this urban center.

If you're looking for more insights into the vibrant life of Ho Chi Minh City, be sure to check out my other blog post: 'Ho Chi Minh City: A Fusion of History and Modern Energy'

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Finally, I ended my journey with a relaxing beach escape to Phu Quoc, flying there to unwind and soak in the sun.

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9 Phu Quoc

Stay: 4 nights

Phu Quoc is a beautiful tropical island off the southern coast of Vietnam, offering the perfect place to unwind after an adventurous journey through the country. Known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, the island is quickly evolving into a major tourist destination. In recent years, Phu Quoc has seen significant growth, with large investments pouring into luxury resorts, entertainment complexes, and infrastructure. This blend of natural beauty and rapid development makes the island unique.

Personally, I wouldn’t necessarily return, as it didn’t leave the same lasting impression as other destinations in Vietnam. However, if you're looking for a calm spot to unwind at the end of your journey, it still offers a pleasant escape.