As a mom, planning a vacation that balances culture, adventure, and family time can be challenging, but our dream trip to Vietnam managed to blend all of these elements perfectly.
This journey took us through bustling cities, serene landscapes, and vibrant local markets, creating memories that my family and I will cherish forever. Here’s a recount of our 10-day adventure in Vietnam.
Chapter Trail
Day 1 to Day 2: Arrival in Hanoi
We touched down in Hanoi, filled with excitement for the journey ahead. The drive from the airport to our hotel was a glimpse into the life of this vibrant city—scooters zipping by, street vendors selling their wares, and the mix of old and new architecture. After checking in, we spent the evening strolling around the neighborhood, soaking in the energy of Hanoi.
Our second day was packed with history and culture as we embarked on a full-day tour of Hanoi. We began at Ho Chi Minh’s house, where the kids were fascinated by the stories of Vietnam’s revered leader.
The One Pillar Pagoda, with its unique design, was another highlight. At the Museum of Ethnology, we explored the rich cultural diversity of Vietnam, and the kids enjoyed the interactive exhibits.
We also visited the Literature Temple and Hoa Lo Prison, where history came alive in a way that was both educational and engaging. The day ended beautifully with a water puppet show at Hoan Kiem Lake, a performance that left us all in awe.
Day 3: Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Mua Cave
We ventured to Ninh Binh, often called “Halong Bay on land,” for its stunning scenery. Climbing to the top of Mua Cave was a challenge, but the panoramic view of Tam Coc and the surrounding countryside was worth every step.
We followed this with a leisurely bike ride through the rice fields and lotus ponds, visiting Dam Khe Trong village where we got a taste of rural Vietnamese life. The kids loved the ride, and it was a peaceful way to immerse ourselves in the local culture.
Day 4 to Day 5: Trang An – Bai Dinh Pagoda – Night Train to Sapa – Bac Ha Market
Our day started with a sampan boat trip through the Trang An Grottoes, gliding through caves and past towering limestone karsts. The tranquility of the area was mesmerizing, and we were all captivated by the beauty surrounding us.
Afterward, we visited Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest complex of Buddhist temples in Vietnam. The kids were amazed by the giant Buddha statues and the peaceful atmosphere. That evening, we boarded the night train to Sapa, an adventure in itself that added to the excitement of our journey.
Waking up in Sapa was like stepping into another world. We headed straight for Fansipan Mountain, the “Roof of Indochina,” via cable car. The views were breathtaking, and it was an unforgettable experience for all of us.
Afterward, we explored Sapa’s bustling Bac Ha Market, where the kids were intrigued by the vibrant colors and unique local products. We spent the night on another train, this time bound for Hanoi, with hearts full of wonder.
Day 6: Lao Chai Ta Van – Cat Cat Village
We spent the day trekking through Lao Chai and Ta Van villages, where we met the friendly locals of the Hmong tribe. The kids had a blast interacting with the children in the village and learning about their way of life.
In the afternoon, we visited Cat Cat Village, famous for its stunning waterfall and historic hydroelectric station. The trek was a bit challenging for the little ones, but the scenic beauty and the welcoming villagers made it worthwhile.
Day 7 to Day 8: Fansipan Mountain – Night Train to Hanoi - Halong Bay – Bai Tu Long
Returning to Fansipan Mountain was a highlight, as we spent more time exploring its trails and soaking in the views. We then visited Bac Ha Market again, where we bought some lovely souvenirs. The day concluded with another night train ride, where we shared stories and laughs, reflecting on the adventures we had.
Arriving back in Hanoi, we quickly transferred to Halong Bay, where we boarded Swan Cruises. The cruise was a dream come true—a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
After a delicious lunch, we went kayaking, exploring the emerald waters and hidden caves. The sunset party on the deck was magical, and we ended the day with a sense of peace and contentment.
Day 9 to Day 10: Halong Bay – Hanoi
Our morning began with Tai Chi on the sundeck, a serene way to start the day. We then explored Thien Canh Son cave, a natural wonder that left us all in awe.
A cooking demo followed, where we learned to make spring rolls—a fun and tasty experience. We returned to Hanoi in the evening, where we spent our last night reminiscing about our incredible journey.
Our final day in Hanoi was spent exploring the city at our own pace. We revisited our favorite spots, did some last-minute shopping, and enjoyed a final Vietnamese meal before heading to the airport. As we boarded our flight home, we felt a mix of gratitude and nostalgia for the amazing experiences Vietnam had given us.
Conclusion
Our Vietnam adventure was everything I had hoped for and more. It was a trip that not only allowed us to explore a beautiful country but also brought us closer as a family.
Vietnam’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm-hearted people made this a dream vacation that we’ll always treasure. For any mom looking to create lasting memories with her family, Vietnam should be at the top of the list.
Plan your next dream trip with one of our hand-picked, highly experienced, licensed, and insured Local In-destination Experts!
