When our Pentravel expert Kayla set off for Vietnam, she knew she was in for good food, buzzing cities, and beautiful landscapes – but she didn’t expect the country to sweep her off her feet. From slurping steamy beef noodles in Saigon to singing karaoke under Halong Bay’s glittering night sky, her week was filled with moments that stayed with her long after she returned home. Here’s her journey – and why a Vietnam holiday package should be next on your travel list.
Touched down in Saigon and immediately felt the city’s energy buzzing all around me. Lunch at Pha Sam Ngoc Linh was the perfect welcome – rich steak beef soup noodles and sweet watermelon juice that hit the spot. Dinner at Nha Hang Ngon was worth the wait, a true taste of Vietnam’s warmth and flavour.
We ended the night wandering Bui Vien Walking Street, soaking in the lights, laughter, and music – the city feels so alive.
Takeaway: The city’s infectious energy reminded me how openness and curiosity can turn any new environment into a source of inspiration.
After a hearty breakfast, the explorer in me came alive. A two-hour ride took us to the Cu Chi Tunnels – a fascinating journey into Vietnam’s history and resilience. I even crawled through the 100m Level 1 tunnel – a slightly claustrophobic but thrilling experience!
Lunch at Ben Nay refuelled us before visiting the Independence Palace, Saigon Central Post Office, and Notre Dame Cathedral. We paused at Highlands Coffee for iced Vietnamese coffee – a perfect recharge.
The evening ended with a sense of mystery and fun as we tracked down the hidden Krystal Bar. Our group photo now proudly hangs on their wall – a little memento for the next travellers to find.
Today was all about slowing down and embracing the calm beauty of the Mekong Delta. On Unicorn Island, we sampled local honey tea and royal jelly – sweet, earthy, and refreshing. I picked up some dried bananas and ginger as souvenirs.
At Dat Dua (Dragon Island), we watched how locals transform every part of the coconut into something useful – from charcoal and milk to candies and straws. Their craftsmanship and creativity were inspiring.
The eco-village tour was a feast for the senses: fresh jackfruit, dragon fruit, lychee, cocoa beans, and green guava, all enjoyed with live traditional music. Gliding along the Mekong in a small gondola was pure serenity – a moment that stays with you.
Lunch featured comforting local dishes like soup, rice, morning glory, and Ba Sa fish, a regional specialty. Back in Saigon, our final night included dinner at Viet Village Restaurant and drinks at a sky bar overlooking the glittering city – a perfect farewell to the south that had already captured my heart.
An early flight brought us to Vietnam’s bustling capital. Our first stop was Cha Ca Thang Long, famous for its one-pot fish dish – a surprisingly delightful start, even for a non–fish lover like me.
We explored Quoc Pagoda, the Temple of Literature, and Hoa Lo Prison, each offering insight into Hanoi’s layered history. After admiring the Opera House, we took a cyclo ride through the buzzing streets – past honking scooters and tempting aromas of street food.
A glimpse of the Presidential Palace? Not this time – Cyril was in town, as we saw the SA flags all around! We wrapped up the day with dinner at Rue Lamblot, savouring spring rolls, cashew nut chicken, and beef noodles – a warm welcome to Hanoi’s cuisine.
Today was a bucket-list moment for us all. The drive through the countryside was a delight – endless green rice paddies, scooters zipping by, and little glimpses of village life. We even stopped at an oyster pearl farm, which was fascinating to see.
Boarding our cruise was like stepping into a storybook – fresh ocean air, dramatic limestone cliffs rising from emerald waters, and the kind of scenery that makes you pinch yourself. Kayaking through quiet coves and taking a dip in the bay felt like pure bliss.
Back on deck, Happy Hour turned into laughter hour, dinner was a feast, and karaoke under the stars had us singing (and laughing) louder than the waves. Halong Bay didn’t just live up to the hype – it swept us off our feet.
Morning called for adventure, and we answered with a visit to the Dark & Bright Caves. Gliding over glassy water in a bamboo boat, the caves’ shimmering reflections and echoing bats made the moment unforgettable.
After brunch on board, it was back to Hanoi – on the bus we enjoyed a few well-earned naps! Once in the city, we fuelled up on salt and coconut coffee before diving into the chaotic, colourful markets. A traditional puppet show added a cultural touch, even if I didn’t understand a word.
The day ended with a farewell dinner at Home Hanoi and cocktails at The Summit, Pan Pacific – watching Hanoi sparkle below, the perfect close to an unforgettable Vietnam adventure.
Before heading to the airport, we squeezed in a few last adventures. Train Street was a highlight – two roaring trains, a refreshing watermelon juice, and yes, a plate of fries (because sometimes you just need fries).
We wrapped up with last-minute shopping, icy mango juice, and a Bánh Mì by the lake – toasted, packed with beef and veggies, and the perfect farewell snack.
As we boarded our flight home, I couldn’t help but feel grateful – for the people, the laughter, and the countless memories shared along the way.
If Kayla’s journey has inspired you, our Pentravel team is ready to help you experience Vietnam just the way she did. Ask us – because we’ve been there, we know it, and we’ll help you arrange every detail from flights and hotels to incredible tours, food experiences, and those hidden gems you don’t want to miss.
Your Vietnam story starts with Pentravel. Let’s plan it together. Get a good idea of what you want by browsing our Vietnam travel packages.
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