My Eleven-day Adventure Through Vietnam with G Adventures

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This year, I had the opportunity to embark on an 11-day journey through Vietnam with G Adventures on a small group tour, part of their newer "Geluxe" product collection—and it was nothing short of extraordinary. From the bustling streets of Hanoi in the north, to the serene waters of Ha Long Bay, the lush landscapes of Pu Luong, and the vibrant city life of Ho Chi Minh City in the south, this trip was a perfect mix of adventure, culture, history, and relaxation.

Hanoi: An Energetic Start

Our journey began in Hanoi, where I met the 11 other travelers in our group—two from Canada, three from England, two from Ireland, and the rest from the U.S. The diverse mix of people made for fantastic conversations and new friendships.

Hanoi offered an exciting introduction to Vietnam’s rich history and lively street culture. Some of the highlights included:

  • Riding on the back of motorbikes, weaving through the chaotic traffic.
  • Visiting the infamous Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the “Hanoi Hilton.”
  • A street food tour that introduced us to mouthwatering local delicacies like pho, banh mi, and egg coffee.
  • Experiencing "Train Street," where we watched as a train passed through a narrow alley lined with cafes and spectators, a truly unique and thrilling sight.

Ha Long Bay: A Night on a "Junk Boat"

We then boarded a bus for the journey to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its emerald waters and towering limestone islands. Spending the night on the private junk boat was a magical experience (the photo on the right is not the junk boat!). We explored hidden caves, went canoeing, and even spotted island monkeys on the cliffs. The evening was capped off with a fantastic dinner on board, a few cocktails, and some hilarious karaoke. This night was definitely the ice breaker for the group.

Pu Luong Nature Reserve: A Tranquil Mountain Retreat


Next, we headed to Pu Luong Nature Reserve, a breathtaking region filled with lush rice paddies and rolling hills. The accommodations were stunning, providing the perfect blend of comfort and immersion in nature. Here, we:

  • Took scenic nature hikes through the picturesque rice terraces.
  • Met friendly locals who shared their customs and way of life.
  • Sampled rice wine, a potent yet traditional Vietnamese drink and tasty!
  • Enjoyed massages at incredibly reasonable prices at our wonderful resort.

Hoi An: Culture, Shopping, and Riverside Charm

A short flight took us to Da Nang, where we immediately felt the climate shift—it was noticeably warmer. We then spent three incredible days in Hoi An, one of the most charming towns in Vietnam and a shopping mecca. Some unforgettable experiences included:

  • Shopping in the bustling markets, where the colors, scents, and energy were exhilarating.
  • Taking a cooking class and learning to prepare authentic Vietnamese dishes.
  • Having custom-tailored clothing ready in just 24 hours!
  • A boat ride on the river, experiencing the magic of floating lanterns drifting in the night.

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): A Powerful Finale

Our last stop was Ho Chi Minh City, a bustling metropolis full of history and energy. The highlights included:

  • A bike ride to the Cu Chi Tunnels, where we gained insight into the resilience of the Vietnamese during the war.
  • A sunset cruise on the river, offering breathtaking city views.
  • History lessons on the "Fall of Saigon," which brought the past to life in a profound way.
  • Memorable dinners filled with incredible food, laughter, and reflection on the journey we had experienced.

Final Thoughts: A Journey to Remember

This extensive trip through Vietnam was an unforgettable adventure. From the deep history to the warm and welcoming Vietnamese people, and the climate shifts from north to south, every moment was special. Whether exploring ancient sites, indulging in delicious food, or soaking in the natural beauty, Vietnam proved to be a destination that captivates the heart and soul.

My favorite part of the trip, aside from the sites, experiences, and amazing Vietnamese people, and over-the-top service, was the ease of planning. Our guide was honestly one of the best I've ever had, the accommodations were terrific, and we did SO much! G Adventures helped us dive deeper into Vietnam than I could have if I planned it à la carte myself. And G has a goal to keep as much revenue as possible in-country to sustain the local economy.

If you're considering a trip to Vietnam, G Adventures offers an incredible way to experience the country with comfort, authenticity, and adventure. I can’t recommend it enough!


#GAdventures #Vietnam #Geluxe #juliyarnalltravel

Location: Vietnam

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