Enchanting Vietnam: Busy Streets, Cultural Connections, and Culinary Delights

In August 2024, Vietnam Airlines rolled out the red carpet for an extraordinary adventure, uniting a lively group of Indian travel and mainstream media, YouTubers, and influencers to explore the captivating wonders of Hanoi, Halong Bay, Dalat, and Ho Chi Minh City, with a promise of thrilling discoveries and rich cultural experiences. Living up to their promise, every moment blended comfort and excitement, weaving together unforgettable memories showcasing this incredible country’s enchanting essence.

With cherished memories from my past visit to the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City and the scenic charm of Danang, I was filled with excitement at the prospect of discovering new wonders in Vietnam, the Land of the Blue Dragon.

The A350 Business Class Experience

Our adventure began with a night flight from Delhi to Hanoi—a five-hour journey we eagerly anticipated. With the newly introduced Airbus A350, which debuted on this route in May 2024, our expectations for an exceptional travel experience soared, especially as we were flying business class. Vietnam Airlines stands out as one of the first carriers in Southeast Asia to operate the A350, demonstrating a commitment to comfort and innovation. The aircraft on this route features a two-class cabin configuration with 276 economy seats and 29 full-flat beds in business class.

The entry into business class left a remarkable impression—visually striking, fresh, and inviting. The unique ceiling design also fosters spaciousness and openness, featuring a staggered 1-2-1 seating arrangement that provides direct aisle access for every traveller.”

Business class seats are noticeably wider and capable of reclining to a fully flat position, ensuring a comfortable flight experience. Each seat included reading lights, entertainment screens, headphones, and USB chargers. From the moment of boarding, the warmth of Vietnamese hospitality was evident. The dining experience was delightful, featuring a choice of beverages, including cocktails, alongside a thoughtfully crafted Indian meal with delicious appetisers and desserts. Such top-notch service set the perfect tone for the journey ahead to Vietnam.

Exploring Nature’s Masterpiece at Halong Bay

Upon landing in Hanoi, the group set off on a scenic two-hour journey through the beautiful Vietnamese countryside to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site. A sense of eager anticipation surrounded us as we prepared to explore this highly praised and breathtaking destination. Upon arrival at Halong Bay, a sense of awe washed over us. Though a bit cloudy, there was a serene ambience in the air.

The biggest cruise in the bay, the Ambassador Cruise, awaited us. Alongside breakfast, the refreshing creamy Vietnamese iced coffee made with condensed milk was the perfect choice for many of us to start the day. Sailing through the breathtaking emerald waters of Halong Bay, the stunning limestone islets rising majestically from the sea created a magical atmosphere.

The Ambassador Cruise offers excursions to iconic spots, including the mesmerising Sung Sot Cave, where the stunning stalactites and stalagmites illuminated in soft colours left visitors in awe of nature’s artistry. A visit to Titov Island provided a leisurely hike up to a viewpoint with panoramic views of the bay—an unforgettable sight. Exploring Luvon Cave was another highlight, gliding through tranquil waters surrounded by dramatic rock formations. As the cruise returned to the harbour, relaxation on deck was accompanied by a stunning sunset over the water, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.

This day was a flurry of hiking and exploration, exhausting yet perfectly embodying the essence of Halong Bay in one unforgettable outing.”

A Day of Iconic Discoveries in Hanoi

Back in Hanoi, the morning commenced photographing some of Hanoi’s most iconic landmarks. The first stop was the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a solemn yet inspiring site where modern Vietnam’s revered leader and founding father rests. The atmosphere looks charged, with guards standing watch and a strict code of conduct for visitors, including silence and appropriate attire. Next was the visit to Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hanoi. Nestled on the banks of West Lake, its stunning architecture and serene surroundings offered a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. Absorbing the tranquillity of the site allowed for reflection on the beauty of Vietnamese spirituality.

A highlight of the day was indulging in the famous egg coffee at Hanoi Coffee Culture. The creamy, frothy concoction was a delightful surprise—unlike anything tasted before. Watching the coffee expert prepare the coffee added to the enjoyment. To cap off the day, experiencing a Xich Lo, or traditional Vietnamese cycle rickshaw, is a delightful way to explore the city. As you sit back and relax, a skilled driver navigates the bustling streets, allowing you to soak in the vibrant sights and sounds of everyday city life right in front of you.

One of Hanoi’s most remarkable experiences is its Beer Street, often called “Bia Hoi Corner.” As night descends, Beer Street comes alive as a vibrant social scene, where crowds gather to relax, enjoy street food, and soak in the rich local culture. Just a short walk away is Train Street, a narrow passage alongside railway tracks where trains pass by, often just inches from cafes and homes lining the way. This unique street has become a favourite destination for locals and tourists alike, who come to enjoy a drink or meal while waiting for the train to rumble through.

Dalat: A Blend of Coffee Culture and Scenic Beauty

Dalat, a charming mountain resort town, was once a favoured summer retreat for the French, and its European-inspired architecture adds to its distinctive charm. Situated about 4,900 feet above sea level, it boasts one of the coldest climates in Vietnam. The cool weather and fertile soil nurture lush landscapes and a flourishing coffee culture, renowned for its high-quality Arabica beans. A scenic drive through the countryside offers breathtaking views of rolling hills, tranquil lakes, and organic gardens.

In our exploration, we first visited The Puppy Farm. In addition to dogs and puppies, it features a variety of other animals, like goats and llamas, creating a mini-zoo experience for visitors. The journey continued with a fascinating farm tour showcasing many organic vegetables and fruits. Our next stop was the Clay Tunnel, an impressive underground complex crafted entirely from clay, featuring intricate sculptures and stunning artwork. Here, you will be immersed in dreamlike landscapes, bursting with vibrant colours and creative designs that beautifully showcase Vietnamese culture and folklore, making it a perfect spot for capturing memorable photos.

The Bao Dai Summer Palace offered insights into Vietnam’s royal past, with its beautiful gardens and architecture standing testament to its former grandeur. To top off the Dalat experience, a local coffee farm and roastery visit provided a chance to learn about the coffee-making process from bean to cup, savouring the rich flavours that make Dalat’s coffee so renowned. The city centre near the lake was alive with energy at night, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with fun and entertainment. To reminisce, each stop revealed a different facet of this enchanting town, making our time in Dalat truly unforgettable.

Always Vibrant: Ho Chi Minh City

Having previously visited Ho Chi Minh City and explored the War Memorial, the Saigon Post Office, and Ben Thanh Market—all fascinating places—I took some personal time for souvenir shopping. Later, I relaxed at a street-side café, admiring the lively street culture surrounding the market. The city’s energy was undeniable, with street vendors, bustling shops, and a lively mix of locals and tourists, all creating a vibrant atmosphere that perfectly embodied the essence of urban life in Vietnam.

Many of us were eager to explore the Mekong Delta and the Củ Chi Tunnels. However, with limited time, we opted instead to visit an incense-making factory about 20 km outside the city, which provided fascinating insights into this traditional craft. The experience allowed us to appreciate the meticulous process and artistry of creating these fragrant sticks. While the entire lane was dedicated to incense production, we learned that the incense-making industry in Hanoi is significantly larger.

A Cultural Gem for Indian Travellers

Vietnam has emerged as a favoured destination for Indian travellers, and it is easy to understand why. Across the country, Indians are seen exploring its rich culture and breathtaking landscapes. Offering a wide range of experiences for different budgets, Vietnam is highly accessible. We observed an increasing number of Indian companies organising MICE events, further enhancing Vietnam’s appeal as a business travel destination. Our stays at the Silk Path Luxury in Hanoi, Golf Valley Hotel in Dalat, and Paragon Saigon in Ho Chi Minh City were outstanding.

A significant draw for Indian tourists is the abundance of Indian cuisine in nearly every major city. Eateries run by both Indians and locals serve delicious meals that evoke a sense of home, with familiar names like Namaste, Mazze, Tandoor, Mama Masala, Dalcheeni, Tadka, India Gate, Sagar India, etc., making it easy to enjoy comfort food while exploring. Throughout our trip, we thoroughly enjoyed both Vietnamese and Indian cuisine, leaving no room for complaints. Our group was also delighted by the impressive variety of fruits in Vietnam, offering another delicious food option.

With Vietnam Airlines providing exceptional service and comfortable flights, the seamless travel experience perfectly complements the cultural explorations and culinary delights that await at every turn in Vietnam. This is a destination that promises to leave a lasting impression on every traveller.