Hanoi has always had a special place in my heart – it’s where I was born and raised. As the capital of Vietnam, it’s a city where history, culture and everyday life blend together beautifully. Peaceful temples and lakes sit alongside lively streets buzzing with scooters and market stalls. Food is at the heart of Hanoi’s charm, from a comforting bowl of Phở in the morning to smoky Bún Chả grilled on the pavement and soft Bánh Cuốn made fresh to order. We stayed at Hotel de L’Operal MGalerry, a lovely boutique hotel in the Old Quarter. It was the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring, with the sights, sounds and flavours of my hometown still fresh in my mind.
Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon as many still call it, feels so different from Hanoi but just as exciting to explore. The city is full of energy day and night, with modern skyscrapers standing beside beautiful French colonial buildings. The food here is bold and full of flavour – Southern style Phở with its richer broth, fragrant Cơm Tấm with grilled pork and sweet iced Cà Phê Sữa Đá that’s perfect for the heat. We stayed at the Myst Hotel, a beautiful hideaway with a unique, artistic touch, right in the heart of the city. It was perfect base for wandering through bustling markets, discovering hidden street food spots and soaking up the city’s lively, welcoming spirit.
Mui Ne in Binh Thuan is a world away from the busy streets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Known for its long sandy beaches, swaying coconut palms and warm sunshine, it’s the perfect place to slow down and unwind. The coastline is dotted with fishing boats, while the famous red and white sand dunes add a touch of magic to the landscape. Seafood is a highlight here – fresh, simple and full of flavour, best enjoyed right by the water. We stayed at The Anam Resort, a beautiful small boutique hotel with a charming local Indochine style, a peaceful retreat with stunning sea views and lush gardens. It was the ideal spot to relax, recharge and soak in the beauty of Vietnam’s south-central coast.
Cam Ranh, Nha Trang is well known for its long stretches of white sand beaches and clear blue water. We stayed at Fusion Resort, a beautiful beachfront hotel with massive swimming pools and its own farm. The atmosphere was calm and relaxing, perfect for spending the day by the pool or walking along the shore. The food and drink options at the resort were the highlight of our stay, from fresh seafood, afternoon tea to tropical fruits. For me, I can never have enough of Nha Trang mango – sweet, fragrant and truly one of the best in the world. With fresh sea air and stunning views, it was the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the beauty of Vietnam’s coast.