Before I embark on another adventure, I wanted to share some highlights from a past trip to Vietnam. Travelling has not only given me the confidence to teach new things and gather interesting resources for inside the classroom but it has motivated me to try new things outside of the classroom.
After two weeks in Cambodia, we jumped on a bus to Ho Chi Minh City and spent four weeks touring to Sa Pa tasting delicious food, seeing unique sights and meeting some interesting characters along the way. Here are some recommendations.
Best City- Hoi An
Brightly coloured building, excellent food and plenty to do makes this historical city a must visit for many. We stayed for five days but could have easily stayed longer. I would recommend staying a Lime Villa as it was away from the crowds, near the beach and offered a pool as well as excellent rooms and personalised service. Also, if you are craving a taste of home, Dingo Diner does a mean sandwich and wedges.
Second Best City- Hanoi
Be sure to explore the Old Quarter and spend some time wandering. There are many coffee shops and hole in the wall eateries to try as well. This is a great city to use as a base and to take a break from moving around as it is cheap and there are plenty of things to do.
Most Surprising City- Dalat
After a delicious trip to the local markets the night before, we spent a full day enjoying the cooler climate in the mountains of Dalat. Hiring a motorbike, we enjoyed coffee over looking a lake before going to see the Crazy House and spending time at the hostel with our hosts and other guests. The landscape, food and quirky attractions makes this city a must.
Best Hotel- Shining Boutique Hotel & Spa, Hanoi
After a long time away from home, this hotel was a welcomed pit stop. The rooms are clean, tastefully decorated and reasonably priced with a buffet breakfast keeping you fuelled throughout the day. What makes this place even more special is the staff who go out of their way to help.
Second Best Hotel- Alagon d’Antique Hotel & Spa, Ho Chi Minh
After days in a hostel it was time to treat ourselves. The Alagon offers afternoon tea, a divine pool with a view and an extensive cocktail menu. The deluxe room was enormous and had the best bed of all the places we stayed. It also had the biggest buffet breakfast I have ever seen.
Best Hostel- SANY Hostel, Dalat
While the hostel in out of town, it is a great place to score excellent coffee, advice from locals, a motorbike and a delicious meal. Operated by a husband and wife team, SANY was clean, comfortable and cool. A family meal and board games with our hosts and other guests topped off a great stay.
Best Activity- Cruise, Lan Ha Bay
Indulge in a two night cruise on Lan Ha Bay. It is like Ha Long Bay but is not overcrowded and there is less rubbish. Some cruises allow for you to canoe, swim and even go for a bike ride on Cat Ba Island.
Best Meal- Noodle and Roll, Hanoi
I loved this place so much that we went back twice for dinner. Well priced, clean and always packed out, the small traditional restaurant is located near a number of attractions and offers a range of menu options for everyone, including vegan and gluten free folks. The tofu noodle bowl is awesome!
Best Coffee- Pini Coffee, Dalat
Enjoy a good coffee with a view. Take some time to look at the unique decorations and stare at the lake for a while.
Most Interesting Activity- Hiking with ETHOS, Sa Pa
We decided to do an overnight homestay in Sa Pa and opted to go with ETHOS, a socially responsible tourism operator in the town. I am by no means an experienced walker so it was a challenge but one that was very memorable and quite cathartic. Our guide Pang was a wealth of knowledge and epitomised what hard work looks like. She spoke with us about the issues facing her community and welcomed us into her home for the night. A must do if visiting Sa Pa. Visit here for information http://www.ethosspirit.com/
Most Surprising Sight- Golden Bridge, Ba Na Hills
Ba Na Hills is a tourist hot spot and a strange place, but in a good way. Amongst flower gardens, gaming arcades, upbeat dancing shows and an enormous Buddha statue, is the Golden Bridge.
Favourite Day- Snorkeling in the Cham Islands, from Hoi An
Leave early in the morning and spend the day on the water touring the Cham Islands. Stopping at two spots, you are able to snorkel or dive in areas that are quite lovely. Brightly coloured fish, unique coral and clear water await you before you eat lunch and head back. Meet people from all over and dare each other to jump from the top of the boat. I gave in and did so, ripping my board shorts in half as I star jumped into the deep water.