Exploring Vietnam: A Journey of Culture, Cuisine, and Coffee
Last November, I embarked on a five-week adventure through Vietnam, visiting five cities, each offering its own unique charm and experiences. From bustling streets to serene landscapes, this trip was a perfect blend of discovery, connection, and inspiration. Here’s a recap of some memorable moments and tips for fellow travellers:
Ho Chi Minh City: A Bustling Paradise
Our adventure began in the vibrant heart of Ho Chi Minh City. We stayed in a cozy Airbnb located in District 1, a hub bustling with life at all hours. The streets outside were filled with sizzling street food vendors, aromatic coffee shops, and even nail salons and massage parlors—a one-stop shop for relaxation after exploring the city.
Every morning, we’d step out to the tantalizing aroma of fresh bánh mì and hot cơm tấm. Friends in the city took us on a whirlwind food tour: chewy bánh tráng trộn, smoky grilled seafood, and endless varieties of street snacks. I still dream about the seafood—fresh, flavorful, and truly some of the best I’ve ever had!
What to do:
Sample the city’s iconic dishes: bánh mì, cơm tấm, seafood, and bánh tráng trộn.
Explore the lively shopping streets and enjoy activities like karaoke, archery
Exploring the city's book street where we spent hours browsing and sipping iced coffee.
Travel tip: The heat in Ho Chi Minh can be intense. Bring a lightweight shirt and a handheld fan to stay cool! (which I did not bring..)
Phú Quốc: A One-Time Experience
After a week in Ho Chi Minh, we jetted off to Phú Quốc, hoping for a tropical escape. Our experience, however, was a mixed bag. Right from the start, we hit a snag with our Vietjet tickets due to mismatched name formats. It cost extra to fix, and the flight itself left much to be desired.
In Phú Quốc, we stayed at Vinholiday Fiesta, where the staff kindly informed us of discounted tickets for VinWonders with unlimited entry—information we wished we had known earlier! Despite this, we enjoyed our time at VinWonders, especially the water park, which felt like a nostalgic throwback to childhood fun. The highlight? The aquarium, with its cool air and mesmerizing displays of marine life. We even stumbled upon a quiet, hidden path that felt like our little secret.
Highlights:
Enjoyed thrilling rides and the aquarium at VinWonders.
Explored the colourful yet quiet Sunset Town.
Disappointments:
Sunset Town, while stunning from afar, revealed many empty, unfinished buildings upon closer inspection. It felt more like a tourist façade than a living, breathing community.
The prices in Phú Quốc were steep, and often, the value didn’t match the cost.
Travel tip: Be cautious with airlines like Vietjet and double-check ticket details. If you’re looking for budget-friendly travel, Phú Quốc may not be the best choice. However, for photographers, Sunset Town’s colourful architecture and ocean views are a dream.
Đà Lạt: A Charming Escape
Arriving in Đà Lạt was like a breath of fresh air—literally. The city’s cool, crisp climate was a welcome change from the heat of our previous stops.
We stayed in a charming Airbnb that came with two adorable corgis who greeted us warmly every time we returned. Our first night was a delightful mix of simple joys: exploring a light exhibition, enjoying a barbecue dinner, and ending the evening with a bánh tráng nướng and warm soy milk next to Hồ Xuân Hương Lake.
The next day, we indulged in bánh mì xíu mại for breakfast and sipped coffee at a serene café overlooking Đà Lạt's central market. Later, we ventured to Rừng Thông Núi Voi (Elephant Mountain Forest), where adventure awaited: zip-lining, go-karting, and even the challenging high-rope courses.
What made it special:
Immersing in the natural beauty of Rừng Thông Núi Voi (Elephant Mountain Forest) - we get to visit the majestic Red pine is thousands of years old
Experiencing thrilling activities like high rope park, and bumper car riding.
Savouring local delights like bánh mì xíu mại (meatball baguette), lẩu gà lá é (chicken hot pot with local herbs), bánh căn (mini savoury rice cake) and sipping coffee while overlooking the central market.
The night market, brimming with vibrant stalls, where we ẹnoyed local sweet treats and bought handcrafted trinkets.
This city has it all-natural beauty, delicious food, endless activities, and warm, welcoming locals. It’s no wonder Đà Lạt has become a favourite among young travellers.
Travel tip: Pack layers for the cool evenings, and don’t miss out on the local night market for food and souvenirs.
Sapa: A Family Getaway in the Clouds
Our journey to Sapa began before sunrise, and after hours on the road, we were rewarded with breathtaking views of mist-covered valleys and rolling hills.
We stayed at the luxurious Hôtel de la Coupole, a five-star retreat that combined French elegance with local charm. Our rooms overlooked the mountains, and each morning felt like waking up in a dream. Staying here truly makes this trip even more memorable.
Magical moments:
Sipping coffee at a mountainside café while watching the iconic red train snake its way through the hills.
Taking the cable car to the Fansipan summit, where the towering Buddha statues and ancient pagodas stood majestically above the clouds.
Enjoying unique cocktails at the rooftop bar and indulging in a spa day.
Travel tip: Plan your visit in advance to secure accommodations that make the most of Sapa’s scenic beauty. Sapa’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers and a raincoat.
Hanoi: Home Sweet Home
Returning to Hanoi felt like a warm embrace. From the moment we arrived, my parents welcomed us with a grand feast, complete with all my childhood favourites.
The city was alive with the hum of scooters, the sizzle of street food stalls, and the chatter of friends catching up over coffee. The Old Quarter was my favourite haunt, especially at night, when the streets transformed into a vibrant maze of vendors selling everything from grilled skewers to handmade souvenirs.
Reuniting with family, sharing hearty meals, and reliving memories of my hometown brought me so much joy.
What I loved most:
Reuniting with family and friends, sharing stories, and reminiscing over hot bowls of phở.
Hosting a friend from New Zealand and introducing her to the rich culture and cuisine of Vietnam.
Exploring the Old Quarter and its vibrant night markets.
Enjoying authentic dishes from street vendors.
Note: Hanoi is a city of contrasts—chaotic yet charming, historic yet ever-evolving. While pollution remains a challenge, I’m hopeful that upcoming environmental initiatives will bring positive change in 2025 and offer hope for a cleaner city.
Closing Thoughts
This trip wasn’t just a journey through Vietnam’s cities but a journey through its soul—its people, its culture, and its flavours. Whether it’s sipping a strong cup of Vietnamese coffee, wandering through bustling markets, or marvelling at natural wonders, Vietnam has something for everyone.
