Vietnam is a fascinating country that offers so much for travelerswhether you're a foodie, history buff, or adventurer. I had always wanted to visit Vietnam, with visions of beautiful landscapes, friendly people, and amazing food, particularly Ph in Vietnam, the famous Vietnamese noodle soup. I started my trip in the capital, Hanoi, and traveled southward through various cities, each with its unique vibe. Along the way, I had some unforgettable experiences and, of course, a few travel blunders. So grab a bowl of your favorite Ph as I share my Vietnam adventure and the itinerary that took me through this incredible country.
Day 1-2: Exploring Hanoi And My First Bowl Of Ph
My trip began in Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, a city where the old meets the new. The moment I arrived, I was hit by the chaotic yet captivating energy of the cityscooters zooming past, people chatting on street corners, and the smell of food wafting through the air. It wasnt long before I found a small street-side restaurant serving a steaming bowl of Ph.
Ph: More Than Just a Noodle Soup
Ph is not just any soup; it's an experience in itself. The flavorful broth, tender noodles, and fresh herbs are the essence of Vietnamese cuisine. My first bowl of Ph was a revelationit was light yet filling, simple yet complex. Sitting on a tiny plastic stool on a busy street in Hanoi, I realized this was the start of a culinary journey that would follow me throughout my trip.
Exploring Hanois Landmarks
After satisfying my cravings, I spent my first two days exploring some of the citys famous landmarks:
- Hoan Kiem Lake: A peaceful lake in the city's center, perfect for a morning walk.
- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: A must-visit historical site that pays tribute to Vietnam's revolutionary leader.
- Old Quarter: The heart of Hanois street culture, with narrow lanes full of shops, cafes, and temples.
Day 3-5: A Blonde Moment in Ha Long Bay
After a few days in the city, it was time to head to one of Vietnams most iconic destinationsHa Long Bay. Known for its towering limestone islands and emerald waters, Ha Long Bay was everything I imagined and more. However, during this leg of the trip, I had what I like to call my "blonde moment."
What Happened?
Excited to board the boat for the Ha Long Bay tour, I left my backpackwith my passporton the bus. Yes, I know, rookie mistake. Panic set in, but thankfully, the tour company was quick to help, and after a few phone calls, my backpack was safely returned by the end of the day. Crisis averted, and lesson learned: always triple-check your belongings.
Despite the hiccup, Ha Long Bay was a highlight of the trip. The cruise took us through the bay's breathtaking scenery, and we even explored some of the caves hidden within the islands.
Day 6-8: Hoi An, Lanterns, and Tailor-Made Clothes
Next, I flew south to Hoi An, a charming ancient town known for its lantern-lit streets and tailor shops. Hoi An quickly became one of my favorite places in Vietnam, offering a more relaxed pace than Hanoi and Ha Long Bay.
Tailor-Made Clothes in Hoi An
Hoi An is famous for its tailor-made clothes, and I couldnt resist getting a dress made. The process was incredibly simplechoose a fabric, get measured, and my custom-made dress was ready within a day! It was one of the best souvenirs I took home.
Lantern Festival
I was also lucky enough to visit during the Hoi An Lantern Festival, which takes place on the 14th day of each lunar month. The town is filled with colorful lanterns, and the streets are closed to vehicles, creating a magical atmosphere as people release lanterns onto the river.
Day 9-11: Ho Chi Minh City and the Cu Chi Tunnels
The final stop on my Vietnam itinerary was Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), a vibrant city that contrasts sharply with the tranquility of Hoi An. With its bustling markets, skyscrapers, and endless motorbike traffic, Ho Chi Minh City was an exciting place to end my journey.
Visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels
It was quite amazing, but almost perverse, to finally be able to not just read about the Cu Chi Tunnels in Ho Chi Minh city but to actually go and crawl through them yourself. Crawling through these passageways I learned how sheer brave people were living and fighting in this territory. And as a result my experience of exploring this part of Vietnams history was both enlightening and rather awkward.
More Ph, and Other Dishes
No trip to Vietnam would be complete without sampling more local food. In Ho Chi Minh City, I tried another bowl of Ph, but this time it had a slightly different flavor, with more herbs and spices than the version I had in Hanoi. Along with Ph, I also enjoyed Bnh m, a Vietnamese sandwich with French influences, and Gi cun, fresh spring rolls that were perfect for the hot weather.
Conclusion
My time in Vietnam was filled with incredible food, beautiful landscapes, and a few unexpected moments that made the trip even more memorable. Each part of the journey offered something unique, from my first bowl of Ph in Hanoi to the tailor-made dresses in Hoi An and the history lessons in Ho Chi Minh City. Despite my mishap in Ha Long Bay, it all added to the adventure.
Vietnam is a country that has so much to offer, and my itinerary only scratched the surface of its beauty and culture. If you are traveling through Vietnam, be sure to bring an open mind and an empty stomach, and, most importantly, double-check your backpack!
