Vietnam Will Take Your Breath Away
- brandonjbk
- Jul 2, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 14, 2024
I have just returned from a two-week trip to Vietnam, where I spent time with my fiancé's family in the southern part of the country, close to the Cambodian border. We also traveled around the country for two weeks, and the experience was truly breathtaking. I hope you like the summary, as I intend to visit our family frequently and possibly establish a second home base here in the future.
My fiancé's family resides inland on Phu Quoc Island, reachable by bus or by flying from HCMC to the island. It is a very rural and economically disadvantaged region of the country, yet it is rich in culture, amazing seafood, and down-to-earth people. The small communities collaborate effectively to ensure that everyone's needs are taken care of. Families live in proximity to each other, with their ancestors resting nearby, up on the hills.
Two cherished memories of mine were exploring the area on a moped, making stops to visit different family members in the vicinity. Another special memory was when I visited the place where my fiancé was born, including their local school, where her father used to commute to the city for work and to the nearby grocery store.
After that, we headed to Phu Quoc to board our domestic flights heading north. Phu Quoc is truly remarkable, especially with the newly built Vinpearl, a large commercial resort area that resembles the architecture of Venice, Italy, and Indonesia. It's essentially a luxurious version of Disneyland for grown-ups.
Heading north for about 2 hours will take you to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, a fascinating city with a population of approximately 7 million, yet it exudes a surprisingly peaceful atmosphere. Hanoi is packed with stores, restaurants, and night markets around every corner. One of the most memorable moments for me was witnessing the train passing through the city - an experience I will never forget! However, what truly stands out for me in the northern region are the day excursions to Ha Long Bay and Ninh Bing.
Following around 3 days of exploration in the north, we made our way halfway to Da Nang, a place in Vietnam that I particularly adore. It bears resemblance to a Vietnamese version of Miami with its stunning sandy beaches along the South China Sea, complemented by the sight of Lady Buddha against the mountain backdrop. One spot that holds a special place in my heart (it's also where I asked my fiancé to marry me) is Ba Na Hills. Situated just inland from Da Nang, a brief gondola ride up the mountains reveals a breathtaking panorama. Please take delight in these photos!
My journey concluded in Ho Chi Minh City, the former capital of the country. It is another vibrant and bustling city with a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and bars. During our stay, we resided in District 1, which is situated in the city center. There are numerous parks, museums, coffee shops, and night markets to explore and enjoy. Ho Chi Minh City serves as a fantastic starting point for travelers coming in or departing to their next destination. I intend to spend more time in this country, immersing myself in its rich culture and traditions.
I am grateful to the friends and family I met in Vietnam, who showed me the significance of traveling and immersing oneself in diverse and distant cultures.
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