Vietnam is one of the countries in Southeast Asia that has preserved its cultural attractions despite the industrialization the modern times have brought.  

You can always see corners around the cities that exhibit that distinct Vietnamese tradition but there is an entire town that has continued to uphold the country's ancient beauty and heritage. 

Welcome to Hoi An Ancient Town!

close your eyes and make a wish as you release your lantern down the river

This town has been acclaimed as a UNESCO National Heritage Site and its government has consistently maintained its original vintage features while adding some more activities and attractions for the tourists. 

Let's take a peek at this little town and what it has to offer. 

📌 THINGS TO DO

Night Market by the River

Situated amidst the town center, the river seems to hold the ancient streets together. Cafes, restaurants and souvenir shops line up the riverbanks while boats are docked on the opposite sides. Then at night everything shifts into a glistening paradise from the paper lanterns hung all over the town. 

The best time to ultimately enjoy Hoi An is at night when all the food stalls and shops are open. Despite the ancient vibe, there are still dance clubs and pubs for the avid partygoers. 

Food Trip

During the day, most cafes are also filled with people especially during the holidays, but you'll never run out of options. Where or what to eat should be the least of your worries when you're in Hoi An. Most food shops there don't just serve local cuisines, they also have a wide selection of international dishes. 

Bike around Town

Aside from pigging out and getting coffee-drunk, you can also drive around town on a motorbike or a bicycle. You can rent the bikes from your hotel or from the stalls around the river. The couple bikes were my favorite! 😊

Walking Tours

The old town street is cramped with shops that you'd feel like going through a maze. Insider tip: get a tourist map or just enjoy strolling around getting lost in time. You can also go on a walking tour and get exclusive passes and guided excursions to temples and other ancient establishments. 

Handicrafts & Tailored Clothes

If you have all the time to spare, you can learn a new skill in arts and crafts. There are workshops just around the old town streets offering lantern-making sessions. Hoi An is also known for their amazing custom-made suits and dresses. It has become a destination for tailored ao dai or the Vietnamese traditional dress. 

Boat Trips & Cultural Shows

While the main attraction is the night market by the river, more tourist agencies are offering boat tours, cruises and cultural shows which you can also get from your hotel reception desk. The basket boat ride is a must-try! Also, you shouldn't miss taking that magnificent boat ride and releasing a lantern to the river. 

📌 ACCOMMODATION

The town has a number of options when it comes to boutique hotels, backpacker hostels and even five-star accommodation. Just remember to book online in advance especially during the holidays. 

📌 GETTING THERE

The main entry points of Vietnam are usually Hanoi, the capital city, or Ho Chi Minh (HCM) down south, but some Asian countries have direct flights to Hoi An's nearby province, Da Nang. From Hanoi or HCM, taking the plane is the best and most practical choice timewise. Since Hoi An doesn't have its own airport yet, most travelers alight at Da Nang Airport. You can directly book tickets online via three of the major airlines operating in the country: Vietjet (budget airline), Vietnam Airlines, & Bamboo Airways. 

From Da Nang Airport, you may take the taxi going to Hoi An. While there are many reports about taxi or fare scams across the country, this area could be an exemption. Based on experience, the people there were accommodating, honest and helpful without ulterior motives. 

couldn't miss wearing this beautiful ao dai here in Hoi An

From military bivouacs, prisoner camps, ammunitions on desolated fields and an atmosphere of hostility and warfare to five-star hotels, beach clubs, restaurants, flocks of tourists and a potpourri of fun and exciting activities, Phu Quoc had truly metamorphosed into a top tourism magnet in Vietnam. The island has been dozing off for quite some time since its historical involvement in the nation’s discord against Cambodia. Only in the recent years that its hidden gem was uncovered and developed. 

Undeniably being one of the best, if not, the best beach there is in the country, Phu Quoc Island has drawn millions of local tourists and foreigners in a year. With an international airport just a few kilometers away from the city center, this island has become more accessible than ever. 

With a total area of 574 km², Phu Quoc is the biggest island in Vietnam that boasts a seemingly endless white-sand shoreline and an unlimited avenue for fun and relaxation.

Here are some activities worth ticking off your Phu Quoc bucket list:

1. ENJOY THE BEACH 

Lounge at the wide-stretch of white-sand beach and take a relaxing walk in the morning or at sunset. While you take a relaxing breath, you can try some refreshing drinks which are readily available at a beachfront cafe or restaurant. For a more unique experience, you may also wait for hawkers to come by and try the fresh local drinks.

Orange Resort

2. WATCH THE SUNSET

One thing you shouldn’t miss is the magnificent colors of dusk. Sunset Sanato, which also has accommodation options and a restaurant, provides cool backdrops for your sunset photos. It gets a little crowded on holidays and weekends so staying right at the doorstep of your beachfront hotel room should be perfect. 

I stayed at Orange Hotel, one of the many resorts that has a beachfront room, where I had the luxury of watching the sunset at the comfort of my bed. 

my sunset view from the Orange Resort

3. GET AN ADRENALINE RUSH WITH WATER ACTIVITIES

There are a number of water activities you can choose from. Snorkeling and diving are the most popular activities among tourists, but you might need to go on an island hopping first to get to do those things. The best way to book a tour is through your hotel staff. They usually have the best discounted deals. 

sea walking in Phu Quoc

4. GO ISLAND HOPPING

This is a must when you want to try the water activities in Phu Quoc.

5. BE THRILLED AT THE THEMED PARKS

VinWonders themed park is a must-visit. It lies 28 km north from the town center. There are public buses every 30 minutes but for your convenience, a taxi or a private car will be the best way to go. 

This place is perfect for kids and kids at heart. You can enjoy a variety of heart-stopping adventure rides and child-friendly ones. It also features an aquarium with diverse underwater creatures. 

The best way to book a ticket would be online or through the hotel staff as there could be discounted packages that include passes to both VinWonders and VinSafari. 

More of this trip here:

6. VISIT THE SAFARI

VinSafari Phu Quoc is the largest and the most diversified one in the country. It has an extensive collection of species and a better environment for its inhabitants. Tickets for the safari could be bought as a bundle with VinWonders Theme Park passes. The theme park and safari are in two different locations so you can either take the taxi or the electric buggies as a cheaper option. 

check out more of this on Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc - YouTube

7. GET THAT ‘VENETIAN FEELS’ AT GRAND WORLD 

Grand World Phu Quoc is much closer to the safari and theme park attractions, but it is not situated on the coastal area. From the town center of Phu Quoc, you need to take a bus, a taxi or a private car to get to this little Italian district. However, you can definitely stay here as there are endless options of accommodations, food, and all sorts of entertainment in this place. 

You might want to stay up to watch their water musical show at around 9pm onwards. If you’re planning to do this, always secure a nice spot like a cafe or even from your hotel balcony before the show starts as it tends to get crowded especially on holidays. 

In the morning, you can try a relaxing cruise on a water taxi for 200k VND.

8. VISIT THE TEDDY BEAR MUSEUM

This attraction can easily be located at the Grand World. This is surely a big hit for kids. You can only imagine how awesome it is to see teddy bears of varied sizes coming to life, hypothetically err mechanically. 

Justine and Marvin at the Teddy Bear Museum

9. EAT LOCAL CUISINES

Because the island is a tourist destination, more and more restaurants and cafes are being opened or launched. There is a variety of street food such as barbeque and fried dishes in the night markets (Dinh Cau & Bach Dang). Make sure to add the fresh seafood in your food trip so do check out the restaurants especially along the shores of the island. 

a proof that you can always access fresh seafood on the island.  catch from our island-hopping mates :D

10. PARTY AT THE BEACH 

If you can't decide between hanging out at the beach and partying at clubs, then the beach clubs are your perfect choice. You can drink and disco along the shorelines while enjoying the fresh sea breeze. 

snapshots from Phu Quoc Island Bucket List - YouTube

11. DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY AT NIGHT CLUBS OR CHILL AT RESTAURANTS WITH LIVE BAND PERFORMANCES

The town center has become a partying hub with all the night clubs that mushroomed all over the place. But you can also choose a more laidback environment at cafes and pubs with live band performances. 

snapshots from Phu Quoc Island Bucket List - YouTube

12. SHOP AND DINE AT THE NIGHT MARKET

There are two night markets at the town center namely, Dinh Cau and Bach Dang, which are close to each other so you can have a fun night-market hopping, if that's a thing :D There is also another one at the Grand World. 

at the Grand World Indochine Night Market

Check out more of this trip here!

Let me know your thoughts about this trip! 

Till then,

 Ha Long Bay, located northeast of Vietnam, is one of the most popular destinations for both local and foreign tourists. Recognized as one of the world's new seven wonders of nature, this haven of majestic landscapes and water forms is a must-see. 

Aside from its world-class natural beauty, it's just 2-3 hours from Hanoi so you could just pack an overnight bag for a weekend getaway. 

PLACES

The most frequented activity is the island cruise which can last from a day to a couple of days. The price range is from US$200 to $400 depending on the type of accommodation and duration but there are cheaper options for day tour which includes kayaking and caving. I only paid around $25 for day trip with a full course meal and a 4-hour tour including the cave tour. Kayaking was paid separately and there was no guide. It was really short yet sweet. 

If you're a beach bum or an adventure buff, there are also other choices for you. One of the major attractions you could visit is the Sun World Ha Long Complex which actually has a waterpark with some exciting yet child-friendly rides. 

The Queen Cable Car is another must-try being a Guinness World record holder as the cabin with the largest capacity that runs from Bai Chay district, crossing over the karst formations of Ha Long Bay to Ba Deo Hill. Although the operating hours are currently affected by this covid situation, they still open regularly on weekends.  

ACCOMMODATION

Along with Ha Long Bay's popularity are great opportunities for local business focused on providing relatively economical accommodation choices for tourists. I'd suggest you book online for more reasonable prices, reviews and reservations. I stayed in a vibrant community of Bai Chay district with a French-inspired ambiance. 

TRANSPORTATION

Like any other nearby provinces of Hanoi, Ha Long can be easily reached by bus or limousine. Buses are the cheaper option but it can actually run for 4 hours or more. There are many travel agencies and hotels that can help you book a seat in a limousine. This is mostly preferred because of its shorter travel time. If you're staying in a hotel, the best thing to do is to ask help from the staff. 

Locals are always very accommodating especially if they're doing business with you. They value customer service and their business so much that they would treat you like family. Well, that's based on my experience. 😋

Here's a short video, not a vlog 😋, of my Ha Long Bay trip

If you happen to be based in Hanoi and been wanting to take a quick breather over the weekend, Ninh Binh would be an ideal place to go. From the capital, it only takes less than two hours to get to this paradise. If you're a fan of amazing natural landscapes and underground rivers, this is the perfect getaway for you. 

awesome view at Trang An Valley Bungalow

Places to see

TRANG AN

another mandatory shot when taking the boat tour in Trang An

Ninh Binh is known for its karsts formation amid rivers and plains. This unique beauty garnered much attention as the iconic film Kong: Skull Island was shot here. So you'd know that the itinerary would include the Kong Island shooting locations but the only way to see them is by boat. 

COST

This tour costs 200k VND with different choices based on durations and locations. Each boat must carry at least 3 passengers so if you happen to go alone, you'd have to wait for the slots to be filled in or you can pay for the rest of the seats. 

DURATION

Since I didn't have much time, I chose the 4-hour tour which highlights boating through the underground rivers and caves and passing by the famous Kong Island. Several temples were also part of the tour by which time local tourists would pray or light some candles.

SITES

At each stopover, refreshments and snacks are sold but there are no restaurants where you could sit down and enjoy a full course meal but you do have ample time to grab some snacks and walk around. 

There were some parts of the tour when I just chose to stay in the boat because there wasn't really so much to see and do. Instead, I enjoyed a chat with the boatwoman who spoke Vietnamese all throughout our conversation. I mostly used translator app to respond to her but luckily I picked up some of the words she said. Most locals are really friendly and accommodating. 

Here's some relaxing shots of my boat tour in Trang An.

TIPPING

Don't forget to tip your boatman/woman before ending the tour. Tipping is considered polite and a manifestation of gratitude and appreciation.  

HANG MUA 

This is also a must-see! It's like a vast mountain resort with an overlooking view and an easy hiking trail. I was even wearing my platform sandals going up to the peak. 

It only costs 100k VND for the entrance fee. You could also enjoy local food served in the restaurants and cafes within the place. 

Hang Mua Peak

There are 2 peaks with a small viewing deck that could get crowded during peak seasons. Summer seasons in Vietnam tend to be really hot and humid and most of the trails are not shaded so be ready with some sun gears. 

panoramic view | Hang Mua

Also, before leaving don't forget to drop by the lake with huge water lilies. This place is panoramically amazing. 

a conversation with the frogs | Hang Mua

Getting there

The cheapest way to go if you're on a DIY tour is either by bus or by train. Unless there's a national holiday, it would be convenient and cheaper to buy tickets at the bus or train stations but this might be a little challenging if you don't know basic Vietnamese. 

In this case, booking tickets online might be a better alternative. As for me, I also find it convenient to book a train ticket on the website because I can pick a seat and pay using my card. 

Another popular option is the limousine because it could take you directly to Trang An where the major attraction is located. You can also book for this online.

If you're on a tour package, the transportation is the last thing you'll worry about. That's pretty much covered with your package most of the time. There are many travel agencies in Hanoi that offer great deals for a day trip in Ninh Binh. 

Where to stay

Again, booking websites could be your bestfriend in finding a great accommodation. There's a good range of options from boutique to luxury hotels in Ninh Binh but should you want to stay near the main attractions, pick a place somewhere in Trang An or Tam Coc. 

I had an awesome stay at Trang An Valley Bungalow. I loved how the cliffs are also your bathroom walls so you're literally sleeping at the foot of enormous rock formations. 

loving these cliffs at Trang An Valley Bungalow

Check out some random videos I took during this trip 

One of the most visited tourist spots in Sapa is the Fansipan Peak which is accessible by cable car and train. Adventure buffs could also go on a hike to and fro the peak but this requires 1-4 days of walking and camping with a guide. On this note, not everyone could qualify to do this adventure as this require much stamina to endure the physical demands of this activity as the trail could be difficult. There is also a need to get a permit for executing such activity and to hire a guide to keep you on track safe and sound. Many companies offer this service and they would often process all necessary documents for you along with hiking necessities included in your tour package. 

Fansipan Peak

If you're not a fan of strenuous activities, there is also an option available even to kids and elderly. The peak can be reaached through two train rides, one being optional, and a cable car ride. The cable car ride would probably take a chunk of your travel budget as it costs VND750,000 /$32. The first train that connects the cable car station and the Sun Plaza costs VND 100,000 / $3 to and fro. 

The topmost part of Fansipan Mountain can either be reached by a short train ride for VND 75,000 / $3 or by climbing up the stairs. The staircase can be tough and exhausting especially for those with health conditions. The sea of clouds can also be seen as you go out of the cable car station but the iconic Fansipan obelisk can only be found at the peak. 

Note that you couldn't get on the train down to the cable car station from the peak so there's no other way down but through the stairs which can be steep. 

Buying tickets to Fansipan doesn't really require advanced booking. Access to Fansipan peak includes cable car tickets, lunch buffet and a train ticket as add-on. Tickets can be bought at your hotel or at Sun Plaza building, the famous landmark of Sapa town. You also embark your five-minute train ride at the same building then transfer to the cable car station  for the exciting 20-minute drift. You will be listening to a recording of how the resort came to be whilst your vehicle is hovering over amazing landscapes and thick foliages. 

the only coffee shop around the area | Fansipan

The whole Fansipan can be done in less than half a day. You may kick start your summit exploration with a one-time lunch buffet at the Sun Plaza or vice versa. The restaurant is open from 10AM to 2PM. This is already included as you purchase a cable car ticket. If you feel a little famished as you explore the place, there is one coffee shop near the peak and a snack area with limited options at the cable car station. Bringing your own drink won't hurt and would even be recommended since the air could get very dry at the top. 

the sea of clouds at the Fansipan Peak

The best time to go there would be during the dry months, October to May. These months would have bearable weather conditions both for hiking and exploration. However, you still have to check for the weather forecast. Rainy days may spoil the view. Also, extremely cold days in December could cause too much fog around the peak that you may experience zero visibility. 

You may also check out other information about getting to Sapa town and attractions nearby Click here.

Vietnam generally has a tropical climate especially in the southern part but it is quite interesting to note that this country can also offer 'winter-feels' minus the snow. If you want to try out a much bearable cold weather, visit the northern provinces especially in December and January. 

One of the provinces with the lowest recorded temperatures is Lao Cai where the famous SaPa town is located. The place is famous for both local tourists and foreigners all throughout the year. A famous landmark called Fansipan or better known as the Roof of Indochina is flocked by tourists due to its remarkable sea of clouds view. 

Fansipan Peak

Transportation

From Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, you can reach Sapa town in 5-6 hours by bus, train, van for hire or private. One of the most common ways to get there is by bus which will cost you around VND 300 - 500 ($13-21) depending on the type of bus. Booking a bus ticket can be done online even on the day of your trip but the online booking could be more expensive than calling the bus company directly. If you're staying in a hotel, the staff could also do the booking for you and provide you with more details. This could be a good option to avoid miscommunication. 

Train routes are also avaible from Hanoi to Lao Cai but this is not recommended since you have to take the bus or taxi to Sapa unlike the bus where you may get off few blocks from your hotel. 

Some may also opt for vans for hire or private cars especially those coming from Noi Bai International Airport. This option can be costly but maybe convenient for you. If you check out Sapa's official website for tourists, you can find more information about airport to hotel transfers or as another option, hotels could also arrange the booking for you. Most hotels here are accommodating with requests like this. 

Accommodation

Accommodation might be the last thing you'll ever worry about. The town is swarmed with both budget hostels and luxury hotels. Booking online through famous websites maybe a convenient choice but you just have to provide exact details like extra beds and check-in or check-out time because any immediate changes might actually cost you more. 

Staying right at the center of the town allows more time to explore the city at night but if you want an exhilirating mountain view right from the windows of your hotel room then you might want to consider booking a hotel away from the town center. Although there are some hotels located at the towncenter advertising fascinating landscape views, the town has become more congested and commercialized with more building constructions in sight. 

Places 

Fansipan Mountain is always on the list of the must-visit places in Sapa. The magnificent sea of clouds is one of the most popular reasons tourist never miss climbing to the peak. More info here.

The Sun Plaza building is a prominent tourist spot that it has become an unwritten rule to take an obligatory photo in front of this establishment. 

Sun Plaza | Sa Pa

Nui Ham Rong Sapa Mountain is another promising attraction where you could possibly see the most anticipated cherry blossoms. Get ready to be mesmerized by a miscellany of flora in its most natural terrain. The intricate rock formations with passages forming like small caves are just amazing. You're actually lucky if you get to this part though. The place is overwhelmingly huge that you might actually lose your way. Just make sure you get to the top because a breathtaking view overlooking the city is waiting for you. 

Yay! We found the viewdeck at Nui Ham Rong Sapa Mountain

The hotpot restaurants there are also a must-try or if you want something familiar to your tastebuds, it wouldn’t be so hard to find the  nearest Italian or French-themed fastfood. 

Souvineer shops should also be in your list. The items are incredibly cheap you'd wish to hoard. You can't probably buy the same items in any shops in Hanoi with the same price. 

Weather 

Always make a habit to check the weather conditions before visiting Sapa especially Fansipan. Rainy seasons could actually spoil the awesome view of the the sea of clouds at the Fansipan Peak and it gets really windy up there. The cold months on the other hand could be foggy but there's a 75% chance of a clear sky in November and December. While in the summer, Mr. Sun can get a little tough that it will be scorching hot and uncomfortable while climbing to the peak. The peak is an open area so be ready with your sun protection gears. 

Price Tag

Accommodation - for as low as $13 per night, you can get a decent hotel room at the town center. 

Transpo cost - From Hanoi to Sapa, and vice versa, expect to pay around  $12-15 for a bus ride. 

Food - almost every corner of the town has a hotpot restaurant that serves seafood buffet at around $12. There are also fastfood shops that offer a seven-dollar pizza or drink that can surely satisfy a hungry tummy on a budget. 

Attractions - Fansipan cable car ticket would cost a chunk of your budget while other attractions are free or with minimal entrance fee. 

Pack your bags and get ready for Sapa. Here are some photos for inspiration. 

Excuse the puffer jackets. These were taken on a 4°C clear sunny day in December so behold the sea of clouds!

contemplating with the sea of clouds

Remember Platform 9 3/4 with this shot? | Fansipan | Sa Pa