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Join our staff member Aleisha's firsthand review as she explores Hanoi’s bustling markets, Hoi An’s culinary secrets, and the humbling history of Ho Chi Minh City—unveiling how Vietnam’s sights, sounds, and tastes create an unforgettable travel experience.
My first day in Hanoi was a feast for the senses: bustling streets alive with honking motorbikes and vibrant markets brimming with fresh, colourful produce, the city backdrop showcasing the delightful contrast between local neighbourhoods and modern highrises. As I navigated the lively chaos, the sounds of sizzling street food and animated conversations were all around me, creating the atmosphere that Vietnam is known for and that I had hoped to experience on my 10 Day 5 Star Memoirs of Vietnam tour.
Culinary adventures awaited while the sticky, humid air clung to my skin, a reminder of a very tropical climate so different to my hometown of Melbourne. I sampled cha gio (fried spring rolls) and rice paper rolls from a street vendor. The satisfying crunch mingled perfectly with the tangy fish sauce, all while sipping on a refreshing Bia Hoi—local beer poured straight from the keg (and yes, this was all as delicious as it sounds!).
The scents of frying food, petrol fumes, and incense from nearby temples wafted through the streets, each contributing in their own special way to the tapestry of this ancient capital. My journey continued to Hoi An, where a cooking class awaited in the charming village of Tra Que. A fun ride on a golf cart led us through hidden streets and residential neighbourhoods, revealing an organic farm tended by a family. The chef and his mother shared insights into traditional farming methods and the significance of fresh ingredients in everyday life.
As we prepared Hoi An’s famous rose dumplings (translucent white rice wrappers with scrumptious shrimp and pork), their delicious flavours highlighted the importance of food in Vietnamese culture. Flipping pancakes during a cooking demonstration was both challenging and enjoyable, deepening my appreciation for what we would soon sample. This experience underscored the Vietnamese ethos of minimising waste, utilising every part of the plants in creative ways.
A visit to the Ho Chi Minh War Remnants Museum struck a solemn note during my trip. The haunting images and harrowing stories left me with a profound sense of sadness, underscoring the tragic impact of the war on the Vietnamese people. Our guide emphasised the importance of respect when visiting the museum, explaining that she could not accompany us as it would be disrespectful for groups to talk loudly in such a place of remembrance. his made the weight of history even more palpable, highlighting the scars that still linger.
Our Hanoi tour took an unexpected turn when our guide, noticing the interest from the kids in our group, decided to take us to the iconic Train Street instead of a temple. Here, we sipped on Vietnamese iced egg coffee as a train whizzed by us just a whisper away, creating an unforgettable moment filled with thrill and spontaneity.
♬ My Vietnam Soundtrack
My ideal travel playlist captures the essence of Vietnam and includes a blend of traditional and modern sounds, reflecting the country’s rich cultural tapestry and vibrant energy. Join me on my adventure by clicking here to access my playlist below and get a taste of what awaits you in Vietnam!
In Ho Chi Minh City, our guide, Jessie, shared her personal stories of growing up in the Mekong Delta. Her insights into the humble lifestyle of her community illuminated the centrality of family in Vietnamese culture. Jessie’s reflections on how families support one another painted a poignant picture of happiness derived from simplicity—a lesson that resonates deeply in our fast-paced modern lives.
My trip to Vietnam was a beautiful mosaic of sights, sounds, tastes, and experiences that revealed the heart and soul of this incredible country, leaving me with lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for its rich culture.
Inspired to visit Vietnam? Aleisha’s 10 Day 5 Star Memoirs of Vietnam tour takes in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and includes an overnight luxury cruise on Halong Bay. View our full range of Vietnam tours here.