Vietnam, a country that has quietly captured my heart, now holds the second spot on my list of top travel destinations. Stay tuned to which place ranks first, but that’s a story for another blog post!
So, why Vietnam? My journey began with a qigong training with White Tiger Qigong. Initially, Vietnam wasn’t on my radar, but the opportunity opened a new door for exploration. The training was scheduled for two weeks in Hue, and after that there was perfect chance to delve into the country’s rich culture and history. I embarked on this adventure from Zagreb, Croatia, with stopovers in Doha and Saigon, before finally reaching Hue.
One of the highlights in Hue was the Tu Hieu Pagoda. For those on a spiritual quest, this place will definitely be a special visit. I recommend visiting the meditation room, which offers a truly grounding energy. Interestingly, during my visit, I felt an intense vibration in my hands, a powerful qi, which seemed magnified by the serene ambiance of the pagoda—home to Thich Nhat Hanh, a renowned peace advocate. This place, enveloped in tranquility, resonated with the spiritual teachings and practices that surrounded it. If your travels take you to Hue, don’t miss the chance to relax at Alba Wellness Valley, a serene haven perfect for rejuvenation.
My favorite place that I visited was Da Nang—why? Because of the beach, of course. I met so many great friends during the training, and Eva came along to explore Da Nang with me. The Golden Bridge was definitely worth seeing. The best part was the gondola that takes you up and down the mountain and seeing the beautiful waterfalls and jungle, but the rest was a bit too much for my taste, overly touristy and comercial. Initially, we were somewhat shocked when we got off the gondola at the top of the mountain; it felt like we had suddenly arrived in Germany, then the Netherlands, and the attempt of Greece just around the corner. Despite this, we still enjoyed our time there. However, in hindsight, I wish we had chosen to visit the Marble Mountains instead.
When it comes to dining in Da Nang, Kurumi was definitely a top choice, a delightful health-focused vegan cute restaurant, impressed me so much that, yes I went three times in one day! Also, the pizza from Pizza and Burger at Herbal Pizza was such a delight by the beach, watching late night activities and absorbing the vibe of the city.
Hoi An, the ancient city, felt like stepping into a fairy tale, especially at night when the lanterns along the river light up. The vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by the array of beautiful art on display, including paintings that reflect Asian cultures, adding depth to the visual and cultural experience. The necessity to haggle in the shops adds to the charm of this picturesque town. A day in Hoi An is enough to soak in its enchanting vibe and appreciate its artistic offerings.
Continuing south to Saigon, or Ho Chi Minh City, I needed a day to adjust to the bustling environment. Busy streets with people, motorbikes driving on the sidewalks, it kind of remided me of mini NYC. Despide the crouded atmosphere the tall city trees help me stay grounded.
Cousine vise, I recommend De Long Home Cooked Vietnamese Cuisine in District 1 for an authentic meal. The Saigon Sky Deck offers breathtaking views of the city so it is worth to take a look at it, and indulging in a spa day is a must, given the exceptional quality and value. Although Binh Tay Market is a popular destination, I found it overwhelming due to the intense smells and crowded atmosphere. However, you might literally find anything you are looking for in this market.
Additional Travel Tips for Vietnam:
- E-SIM Cards: Consider getting an e-SIM if your phone supports it, as they are cheap and accessible. If not, there are many SIM providers where you can choose a plan on the spot.
- Local Drivers: If you’re staying in one place for an extended period, it’s practical to ask around for driver recommendations. It’s very common in Vietnam to arrange rides through WhatsApp, and bargaining is often involved.
- Currency Exchange: It’s wise to exchange some currency before you arrive and to have some money in cash.
- Transportation: Ride-hailing apps like Grab are reliable and inexpensive for getting around cities. For longer distances, consider booking trains or domestic flights in advance.
- Local Etiquette: Vietnamese culture values politeness and modesty. Dress conservatively when visiting temples and always remove your shoes at the door when entering someone’s home or the temples.
- Weather Considerations: Check the weather before your trip, as Vietnam’s climate varies greatly from north to south. Rain gear may be necessary depending on the season.
- Health Precautions: Stick to bottled water and avoid raw foods (I was also advised to avoid the street foods) to prevent any stomach issues. Also, mosquito repellent is essential, especially in rural areas.
Will I return to Vietnam? Absolutely! It surprised me in the best ways possible. Beyond its beautiful landscapes and historical sites, the country possesses a soul that’s hard to describe. The warmth and resilience of the Vietnamese people, despite their challenging history, made my stay unforgettable. Vietnam left me with fond memories, a daily coconut, and a longing to return and explore more of its unique charm.
