EXPLORING VIETNAM: A JOURNEY THROUGH MY EYES
Vietnam has always fascinated travelers all around the world without actually pointing out any one thing specifically. It’s wonderful nature, endowed with many natural wonders, seas, forests, mountains, and overwhelming terraced fields that astonish visitors.
When I decided to embark on a journey to Vietnam, I knew I was in for a treat. From the bustling cities to the serene countryside, Vietnam is a land of stunning contrasts and unforgettable experiences.
Here are the top places that left a lasting impression on me during my travel.
HANOI: THE HEARTBEAT OF VIETNAM
My adventure began in Hanoi, the vibrant capital city. The moment I stepped out onto the streets of the Old Quarter, I captivated by the energy and charm. Narrow, winding lanes were filled with vendors selling everything from fresh fruits to handcrafted souvenirs. One of my favorite experiences was sipping coffee in a quaint café while watching the world go by, Hanoi’s blend of old-work charm and modern vibrancy was the perfect introduction to Vietnam.
HALONG BAY: A NATURAL WONDER
A few hours from Hanoi, I found myself gazing at the emerald waters of Halong Bay. Boarding a traditional junk boat, I sailed through the stunning landscape, dotted with thousands of limestone islands. The beauty of halong bay is surreal, and kayaking through hidden caves and floating village felt like a dream. Watching the sunset over the bay from the deck of the boat was one of the most serene moments of my trip.
HOI AN: A STEP BACK IN TIME
Next, I headed to hoi an, a town that seemed frozen in time. The ancient architecture, lantern-lit streets, and riverside markets were enchanting. I spent my days cycling through rice paddles, visiting tailors for custom-made clothes, and indulging in local delicacies like cao lau. One evening, I joined a lantern-making workshop, and releasing my handmade lantern into the river felt like participating in a beautiful, age-old tradition.
HUE: THE IMPERIAL CITY
Hue, the former imperial capital, offered a glimpse into Vietnam’s regal past. The sprawling Citadel and the forbidden purple city were awe-inspiring, with their grand architecture and rich history. I also took a boat trip along the perfume river to visit the royal tombs and pagodas. Each site has its own story and exploring them was like stepping back into a different era.
HO CHI MINH CITY: THE DYNAMIC METROPOLIS
Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon, was a bustling metropolis that contrasted sharply with the tranquility of hue and hoi an. The city’s energy was infectious, with its skyscrapers, busy markets, and vibrant nightlife. A visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels offered insight into the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people during the war.
THE PEOPLE AND CULTURE
Throughout my travels, it was the warmth and hospitality of the Vietnamese people that left the most lasting impression. From friendly local’s eager to share their stories to street vendors who greeted me with smiles, I felt a genuine connection everywhere I went. The cultural richness, the festivals, the traditional music and dance—all added layers of depth to my experience.
A VEGETARIAN DELIGHT: DISCOVERING PLANT-BASED CUISINE IN VIETNAM
As a vegetarian, travelling to new countries often brings the excitement of discovering unique plant-based dishes. Vietnam, with its rich culinary heritage and abundant fresh produce, promised a delightful gastronomic journey.
Here’s a taste of my vegetarian adventures across this beautiful country.
HANOI: A VEGETARIAN HAVEN
I arrived in Hanoi with high hopes for delicious vegetarian fare, and the city doesn’t disappoint. My first stop was at a bustling street food market where I discovered bun rieu chay, a vegetarian version of traditional noodle soup, addition of fresh herbs and vermicelli noodles made it incredibly satisfying.
HOI AN: A CULINARY TREASURE TROVE
Hoi An quickly became my favorite destination for vegetarian food. The town’s markets were a riot of colors and smells, with stalls offering a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs. At the local eateries, I found gems like banh bao chay (vegetarian steamed buns) and mi qunag chay (turmeric noodles with tofu and vegetables). The flavors were bold and vibrant, and each dish was a testament to the versatility of plant-based cooking.
HUE: IMPERIAL VEGETARIAN CUISINE
In Hue, I explored the unique flavors of royal vegetarian cuisine. One of my favorite experiences was dining at Lien Hoa, a renowned vegetarian restaurant. The menu featured intricate dishes that were both visually stunning and delicious.
HO CHI MINH CITY: MODERN VEGETARIAN DELIGHTS
With its bustling energy, offered a plethora of modern vegetarian dining options. I visited Hum, a stylish restaurant that focused on fresh, organic ingredients. The city’s vibrant street food scene also had plenty to offer. I discovered banh mi chay, a vegetarian version of the iconic Vietnamese sandwich, filled with tofu, pickled vegetables and fresh herbs. It was a delightful fusion of flavors and textures.
REFLECTIONS ON VIETNAM
As I boarded my flight home, I reflected on the incredible journey through Vietnam. The country’s natural beauty, historical depth, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine had captured my heart. Vietnam is a land of contrasts and surprises, and my travels had only scratched the surface. I left with a sense of gratitude and a promise to return, eager to explore more of this captivating country.