Taste, Explore, Repeat: Harish's Review for a Family Trip to Vietnam
“Let’s make our family trip to Vietnam about food and adventure!” my wife suggested one evening.
And with that, our family vacation to Vietnam began taking shape. We eagerly read several articles on the web related to the most popular street food in Hanoi.
“I can’t wait to try the buffet on the Halong Bay cruise!” our son joined in with his infectious enthusiasm.
By the time we finalized our itinerary with Thrillophilia, it had become a wholesome package that included everything from scenic landscapes to historic attractions. The way we were planning, we didn't want to miss out on any experience. And, the destination experts from Thrillophilia paid special attention to all our needs and created an incredible itinerary.
As I made the payment for the trip, our excitement grew, and we realized it was going to be an experience filled with stunning sights and unforgettable flavors.
Delicious Discoveries
Wherever we go, food has always held a special place in our travel plans. Hence, our journey to Vietnam began with a culinary adventure as soon as we arrived in Hanoi.
Eager to dive into the local ambiance, we stepped out on the vibrant streets, all set to try the delicious street food. The streets were filled with mind blowing aromas, and local vendors selling various authentic Vietnamese dishes. I particularly enjoyed Pho, a noodle soup served with rich broth, and fresh herbs.
During the Halong Bay cruise, the lunch buffet was an absolute bliss. We savored various types of authentic Vietnamese delicacies while enjoying the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
Later, we even got a chance to participate in a cooking class on the cruise, where we learned how to prepare traditional dishes. Diving into the techniques and flavors exclusive to Vietnamese cuisine was a memorable experience.
Our food exploration continued at Ba Na Hills, where we were offered a rich buffet lunch. With more than 70 dishes to pick from, it made us feel like a royal family. We tried everything from spring rolls to Dau sot ca chua - it was an explosion of Vietnamese flavors in my head. Having people around made it more enjoyable, as we shared several stories about our adventures.
A Floating Paradise
The Halong Bay cruise was undoubtedly the most exciting part of our trip in Vietnam. The cruise turned out to be a combination of exploration and relaxation, allowing us to admire the true beauty of a UNESCO World Heritage site. As we glided across the clear waters, we witnessed towering limestone in the middle of emerald waters.
After settling in our private cabin, we stepped outside to join fellow travelers for lunch on board. It felt like we were all inside a painting, dining together while watching the stunning views.
The staff at the cruise was very attentive and made sure that we didn't face any issues while onboard. We also made a stop at Titop Island to enjoy sunbathing and a short scenic trek. Climbing our way to the viewpoint was a unique experience, as the panoramic views of the Bay were truly incredible.
Being nature enthusiasts, we also loved the guided kayak excursion offered during the cruise. We paddled through the calm waters and got a chance to explore towering cliffs and hidden lagoons. Later during the sunset, we joined our fellow travelers on the deck for a hot cup of tea, sharing laughter and admiring the peaceful ambiance of Halong Bay.
Through Time and Nature
With each step that we took during our sightseeing tours, Vietnam revealed its natural beauty and rich heritage.
We visited Hoan Kiem Lake, also known as 'Sword Lake' among travelers. My wife particularly loved visiting the Ngoc Son Temple, which was built in the 19th century to honor Tran Hung Dao, a military commander. I found the vibrant mood of the surrounding streets to be very appealing, as it made me feel truly immersed in the local lifestyle.
We also took a small trip to the countryside, where we got the chance to witness stunning landscapes. My boy fell in love with the glimpses of lush greenery and rural life. During our time among the rice paddies, we were deeply connected to nature, as our guide shared several interesting stories about the region.
Later, we also explored The Golden Bridge, which is held in place by giant hands. It was a sight worth remembering for a lifetime and felt like a scene straight out of a fantasy film. Exploring Linh Ung Pagoda in Da Nang, was another memorable experience for us, as we could witness 4 Guardians and 18 Arhat statues that were housed in the complex.
Exploring Hoi An's attractions on foot was a great way to wrap up our adventure in Vietnam. Strolling around its vibrant marketplace and well-preserved buildings felt like traveling back in time. We could explore the rich heritage and craftsmanship of Hoi An at a leisurely pace as we walked across its charming streets.
From delicious food, and stunning landscapes, to historical temples - Our Vietnam trip was something we'd remember for years to come. Thank you Thrillophilia for crafting a wholesome itinerary that included diverse destinations, making our experience truly memorable.
Read More: Thrillophilia Vietnam Reviews