Good Morning, Vietnam!

I flew from Singapore into Da Nang, the gateway to Hoi An, and from there made my way to the Bliss Resort & Spa. Tucked just outside the town and set right on the beach, it felt like an instant exhale—quiet, beautiful, and the perfect contrast to the energy I knew was waiting nearby.

Hoi An itself was nothing short of magical. I spent the day wandering through the old town, where every street seemed to tell a story. Ochre-yellow buildings, wooden shutters, and lanterns hanging overhead created a postcard-perfect setting at every turn. I stopped for Vietnamese coffee at Uncle Juan’s— one of the best places to unwind and watch the world go by in this town.

The town was full of charming galleries and boutiques, each one unique, inviting you to step inside “just for a look” and inevitably stay longer. But it was the lanterns that truly defined Hoi An. By day they added colour and character, but by night, the town transformed completely. As the sun dipped, the lanterns lit up in every shade imaginable, reflecting off the river and turning the entire place into something almost dreamlike.

One of the highlights was taking a ride on the lantern boats. Floating gently along the water, surrounded by glowing lights and quiet chatter, it felt surreal—one of those travel moments you wish you could pause.

From there, I flew north to Hanoi and continued on to Ninh Binh, about two hours away. The scenery shifted dramatically—towering limestone karsts rising out of lush green landscapes, giving the area a peaceful, almost otherworldly feel. I stayed at Tam Coc Retreat, a small boutique hotel that blended beautifully into its surroundings.

With bikes rented for the day, I explored the countryside at a slow, steady pace, cycling past rice fields, rivers, and local villages. It was simple, calm, and incredibly rewarding.

The real adventure came with a boat trip through Trang An—a three-hour journey weaving through caves, mangroves, and waterways so still they mirrored the sky. We passed temples perched on the water’s edge and even a spot locals refer to as “Skull Island,” adding a slightly mysterious edge to the serene landscape. Along the way, I climbed up through Mua Cave and climbed the many steps to the top and views. Finally, I visited Bich Dong Pagoda, set into the mountainside and offering stunning views over the surrounding area.

Finally, I returned to Hanoi for a couple of days, diving back into city life. The capital was vibrant and chaotic in the best way—buzzing streets, endless food spots, and a mix of history and modern life at every corner, including the crazy traffic! In the evening, headed to the famous Water Puppet theatre to see the vietnamese culture come to life. The craziest part was Train Street, where the train comes along periodically throughout the day, so close to the all cafes and stalls. Health & Safety were definitely having a day off!! It was the perfect way to round off the Vietnam leg of the trip before heading onward to Hong Kong.

Looking back, Vietnam felt like a collection of contrasts—peaceful beaches, lantern-lit evenings, dramatic landscapes, and lively cities. Every stop brought something new, yet it all flowed together into one unforgettable experience.