North Vietnam - An authentic adventure with Realistic Asia
Visitors to Vietnam often stick to the 5 H’s of Hanoi, Hoi An, Hue, Halong Bay and Ho Chi Minh - but, amazing though these destinations are, we think they’re missing a trick. So we asked the experts at Realistic Asia to share their take on North Vietnam, one which savours the hotspots but also heads further afield, discovering the natural beauty and indigenous communities of the less travelled territories in this place of verdant landscapes, misty mountains and tranquil bays.
What to expect from this authentic adventure?
Between the intoxicating atmosphere of vibrant Hanoi and the ancient streets of lantern-lit Hoi An, guests discover the traditional life and spectacular landscapes of rural North Vietnam - from the lush beauty and friendly locals of Ba Vi, Pu Luong and Mai Châu to the magnificent karsts and ethereal settings of Ninh Binh and HaLong Bay. Rich with the promise of new experiences, this is a call to the soul for adventure and discovery.
Let’s dive deeper…
Hanoi - the Beating Heart of North Vietnam
We begin in Hanoi, where old-world French colonialism and ancient temples mingle with a bustling new age modernity. Before hitting the Old Quarter, don’t miss the historic Ba Dinh Square (where Ho Chi Minh proclaimed Vietnamese independence) and Lenin Gardens, a top spot for people-watching where guests can begin to settle into the ways of local life. Exploring the labyrinth of tiny alleys, the traditions of the City reveal themselves in the generations-old sewing and souvenir shops, quaint cafes and tucked-away temples - a unique experience that calls for a camera.
And the Old Quarter is an adventure in itself - redolent with the intoxicating scents of street food, overflowing with fresh produce and handcrafted goods and alive to its symphony of motorbikes and vendors. Here, having enjoyed tea and tales of life past and present at the beautiful colonial home of a local Hanoian, a street food tour whisks travellers on a tasting trip through the hundreds of delicious dishes on offer. Beginning with a little Pho Ga (chicken noodle soup - the national dish of Vietnam), guests head from tiny shop to tiny shop, tasting everything from Banh Duc and the famous Hanoian bread and pâté to sweet rice cakes, soups and Vietnamese egg coffee.
Where to stay?
Hanoi De L’Opera Hotel This luxurious boutique hotel located near the Hanoi Opera House is a place of opulent, stylish décor, fine dining and exceptional service, where French colonial charm blends seamlessly with contemporary comfort - a standout choice for discerning travellers. Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi This iconic five-star hotel next to the Old Quarter is steeped in history. A luxurious landmark for more than 100 years, its exquisite French colonial architecture and storied past are backed by luxurious accommodations and world-class dining - a legendary symbol of elegance and heritage in Hanoi.
Escape to nature in idyllic Ba Vi
Just a short drive west of Hanoi, Ba Vi is a rural, mountainous area whose lush National Park offers a truly authentic experience. This serene retreat is the perfect tonic after the hectic pace of the city - surrounded by verdant forests, rolling hills and tranquil lakes and populated with the friendliest of locals, it’s the epitome of North Vietnam’s raw rustic beauty. Greeted in Ri village by war veteran and tea farm owner (Mr) Duoc, a trip to his vast tea farm is the perfect place to hear stories of the region in the midst of its scenic beauty, before getting hands-on, helping to harvest and brew Vietnamese tea the traditional way.
A cooking class and lunch in Moc Village with the fabulous (Mrs) Chin is a fun-filled way to pick up some classic Vietnamese recipes, while a stroll through the village sees guests visit local families and learn how they make products like tofu and the iconic conical hat. And how better to explore the countryside than by bike? A cycling trip weaves through the paddy fields, enjoying chance encounters with local farmers and ending with a traditional foot bath in soothing water laced with herbs - a traditional recipe of the Indigenous Muong community, a minority ethnic group with a rich agrarian heritage and unique spirituality.
Heading South to Pu Luong
A scenic 3-hour drive brings travellers further off-the-beaten trail to Pu Luong Nature Reserve in Thanh Hoa Province, famed for its lush vistas of mountains and valleys and the stilt houses of the White Thai ethnic group. This region is the most picture-perfect place of ever-changing scenery - perfect for hiking tumbling rice terraces, trekking small paths shrouded in greenery and discovering tiny, scenic villages at the base of towering mountains, where palm fronds grow all around and wood smoke gently curls from cottage chimneys up the valley. Here is the ideal spot to get closer to village life, interact with the people who live in the hills around the Retreat, see the rhythm of their daily lives and cultures and walk around the picturesque working farmland and rice fields.
Where to stay
Pu Luong Retreat An authentic eco-oasis of boutique accommodations, fabulous dining, wellness offerings, infinity pools (2, no less) and views that encapsulate North Vietnam’s entire topography at a glance, Pu Luong Retreat well deserves its status as the top-rated resort in the region.
The People and Places of Mai Chau
Beautiful Mai Chau, surrounded by emerald mountains, untamed forest and rolling rice fields, is home to several indigenous tribes - a place of breathtaking nature and warm hospitality. Just a 2.5-hour drive from Pu Luong, Mai Chau is a brilliant opportunity to become immersed in the ways of these fascinating tribal cultures.
At Xa Linh village, a 2-hour walk in this stunning mountain setting finishes with time spent with the agrarian H’mong hill tribe, chatting via an expert guide to learn about their daily life of rice planting, buffalo herding and building. This region is also home to the White Thai ethnic minority, known for their traditional stilt houses, hospitality and vibrant cultural traditions, including traditional dances, handicrafts and delicious cuisine. A 2-hour cycle ride is the perfect way to explore deeper into the area, saying hi and stopping to talk and learn on the way.
Where to stay
Mai Chau EcoLodge This sustainable retreat amidst picturesque rice paddies and lush forests offers eco-friendly accommodation in traditional stilt houses crafted by local artisans. The lodge emphasises sustainability through practices like solar power, organic farming and water conservation and is a bastion of responsible tourism in the region, helping support local livelihoods through eco-tours and hosting cultural activities that open guests to truly authentic cultural experiences.
Ninh Binh and HaLong Bay
HaLong Bay, that surreal seascape of jade-green waters and jutting limestone karsts, is one of Vietnam’s most iconic destinations - but Tam Coc at Ninh Binh, often called “HaLong Bay on land” is less well-known. We begin here, where the magic of HaLong is evoked on terra firma. Here, a skilled rower takes travellers on a slow, 2-hour adventure that winds gently along canals that pass limestone mountains and endless rice paddies, weaving in and out of natural caves of incredible ethereal beauty. Formed over millions of years, the caves feature impressive stalactites and stalagmites, which, combined with the patterns cast on the water by filtering sunlight, give them a sense of mystical wonder.
After lunch, a hike explores the bell-shaped Mua mountain and its legendary 500-step staircase. With unmistakable Great Wall of China vibes, the steep, meandering staircase is carved with intricate sculptures of dragons and other mythical creatures as it climbs to the summit, where a temple to Quan Am, the Goddess of Mercy, offers beautiful panoramic views over Tam Coc and Trang An. HaLong Bay, that masterpiece of nature where thousands of limestone karsts rise dramatically from the clear, emerald ocean, is one of Vietnam’s unarguable must-sees.
But how best to take it in?
Realistic Asia recommends an overnight luxury boat trip, which sets anchor amongst the karsts for a night that guests will remember forever. And don’t miss the Dark and Bright Cave. Here, visitors can explore by bamboo boat, discovering the conjoined cave’s combination of white karsts, perfect green waters and darkly mysterious corners that make for an unbeatably atmospheric experience.
Where to stay
Prince Junk Designed on the lines of the Bay’s traditional fishing boats (but larger and far more opulent!), the outstanding, 4-cabin Prince Junk features 2 decks with inside and outside dining, spacious sundeck and beautiful cabins with sea-facing windows to take in the views. Perfect for families, couples or small groups.
Other ideas include:
The Quaint Charms and Unique Culture of Hoi An
Famous for its bridge of lights and lanterns and its UNESCO Old Town, Hoi An bursts with its fusion of cultures, blending the Vietnamese with French, Chinese and Japanese influences. Its Old Town is unmissable - the only surviving traditional Asian port, its architecture is a mix of pagodas, temples and French colonial, with buildings ranging right back to the 15th century still intact. But today it’s possibly best known for the beautiful, 400-year old Japanese bridge which comes alive at night, with lanterns and lights twinkling softly on the waters beneath like a mirror to the starry sky above.
En route to the centre, travellers can discover the daily routine of farmers on the rural outskirts of the town at organic farm Tra Que Vegetable Village, whose rich, fertile soil produces some of the tastiest vegetables and herbs in the region. This is a hands-on experience, so guests are able to don work clothes and join in, watering, fertilising and operating the water wheel before hand-grinding their own rice paper which, when grilled over charcoal, makes a delicious, crunchy snack! And back in Hoi An, a walking tour is the best way to explore the centuries of history contained in this charming place. Moving through the narrow lanes and cosy streets to discover old Merchant houses and intricate wood carvings, the tour ends at the town’s colourful market, where travellers are sure to find the perfect keepsake to remind them of this incredible, authentic adventure in North Vietnam.
Where to stay
Anatara Hoi An The beautiful Anantara Hoi An blends old-colonial allure and boutique luxury to fabulous effect. Set in lush tropical gardens, the resort is less than a kilometre from the historic quarter, and fronts the Thu Bon River for a blissfully romantic evening dinner setting.
Four Seasons Hoi An This luxurious 5* beach resort is in an idyllic coastal setting that blends Vietnamese tradition with contemporary elegance. Nestled along pristine Ha My Beach, its accommodations offer serene ocean views, its spa offers indulgence and its restaurants offer elegant local and international cuisine.
And now?
For those with time on their hands, how about a tour of magical Laos? Or for those who are seeking complete IndoChinese immersion, this authentic odyssey through Thailand and Cambodia promises an experience like no other.
Whatever your clients are seeking, Realistic Asia can craft the perfect, personalised experience that will make their travel dreams a reality.
For an introduction to the team, drop us a line today.
