Our annual retreat: highlights of Vietnam

This month, the remote Odyssey World sales team met up for our annual retreat. Hanoi, Vietnam was chosen by the team as a base and we soaked up as much of the city and surrounding area as possible. Earlier, Asia Destination Specialist arrived with her family to find out what it’s like to travel around the country with a 2-year-old. We enjoyed a huge variety of experiences, scenery and food, all wrapped up with the most infectious hospitality and warm welcome from the gorgeous and accommodating Vietnam people.

Despite its tumultuous history, Vietnam is gradually increasing its popularity as a must-see destination: showcasing its bright green paddy fields, lantern-lit towns and dramatic limestone islands; there’s something for every kind of traveller, as we reveal below.

Do something you can’t do at home

                   

Taking your daughter Basket Boat Fishing is a special memory for any parent! The origin of these coracles is unclear, but many believe they were born out of ingenuity during the French colonial era. Legend has it Vietnam’s basket boats originated as a way for local fishermen to avoid paying taxes imposed during the French colonial rule. Others say the boats were created out of necessity, as they were more practical than traditional fishing boats. Whichever the case, the basket boats have become an endearing symbol of life along the central and southern Vietnamese coast.

Engage in local craft experiences

                   

Putting our creative skills to the test and making traditional Vietnamese lanterns. A lovely moment to take home. Hanging lanterns has been a cultural characteristic of Vietnamese people since ancient times. The lantern, brought by Chinese and Japanese merchants when they came to Hoi An to trade and settle in the late 14th century, is one of Hoi An’s most famous symbols. Traditional lantern crafting in Hoi An has continued for over 400 years until today.

                   

Discover ancient cities and architectural marvels

A day well spent in Hue. First stop, the Imperial City, one of Vietnam’s seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Imperial City of Hue was a walled fortress and palace belonging to the ancient city of Hue, which was a capital city of the Nguyen Dynasty for 140 years from 1805 until 1945. With amazing architecture, an impressive history and the most stunning grounds you will certainly be in awe. Next up was the impressive Thien Mu Pagoda. Built on a small hill overlooking the Perfume River, this seven-storey pagoda is an icon of Vietnam. The 21m-high octagonal tower, Thap Phuoc Duyen, is considered one of Vietnam’s most beautiful religious sites, with each of its storeys dedicated to a manushi-buddha – a Buddha in human form. Fittingly its name translates as ‘Heavenly Lady’. And finally a traditional Hue lunch: Banh Khoai (Hue Crispy Rice Pancakes), Banh Nam (Flat Steamed Rice Dumplings) and Bun Thit Nuong (Vermicelli with grilled pork). Delish!

Our second day in Hue we enjoyed a trip to visit our guide, Phi’s, uncle’s fishing village on the Tam Giang Lagoon (the largest fresh water lagoon in SE Asia). Phi grew up here and was incredibly passionate about maintaining the traditional fishing techniques and values. His uncle kindly took us out on his long boat to see their traditional bamboo fishing funnels and the day’s catch! Such an incredibly beautiful setting, we did not want to leave.

                   

Enjoy quirky rural escapes

A day or overnight trip to Ninh Binh and the Trang An UNESCO Heritage site is something straight from the postcards. Often described as ‘Halong Bay on land’ this open area just 2 hours south of Hanoi offers relaxing row boat cruises, iconic bicycle trips through the paddy fields, and a huff and puff hike up 250 steps to a pagoda with the most breath-taking views.  With a choice of escapist resorts and homestays, this is your blissful retreat from the buzzing city of Hanoi.

The Tra Que vegetable village, just outside of Hoi An, is a quiet, tranquil and lush green farming area. Lined with neat rows of planted herbs and vegetables. A far cry from the busy streets and incessant horn-honking just around the corner. Although relatively small in size, the organic garden is hugely important and well-known in Hoi An, specifically for producing the highest-quality vegetables & herbs thanks to the special techniques used. Try your hand at planting and learning traditional techniques alongside the locals, while breathing in the sweet fresh smell of the herbs and vegetables – if only we could provide smell-a-vision through these photos.

                    

Indulge in the famed cuisine

Deeply intertwined with its culture, the cuisine of Vietnam is instantly recognisable: fresh herbs, vegetables and spices embody the spirit of the region. We loved the sizzling stalls of Hanoi to the aromatic markets of Ho Chi Minh City, each street corner offers a unique gastronomic delight.

The food culture is highly valued here, typically revolving around communal dining and sharing – many traditional dishes are served family-style to foster bonding and connection – as well as being infused with the influences of the region: whether it’s the seafood-rich dishes of Halong Bay, the imperial cuisine of Hue or vibrant flavours of the Mekong Delta.

               

Another memorable experience was visiting the home of a Vietnam Masterchef Winner, Chef Ai. After visiting the street market outside her home, Chef Ai took us back to her cosy kitchen and we chatted about her time on TV, how her life has changed since the TV fame and compared regular family stories!  All the while, as she casually served us beer and wine, spring rolls, shrimp and duck salad, spicy noodles and finished with the creamiest selection of Egg Coffee that you’ve ever seen. This was a very special evening that we can offer to guests visiting Hanoi, so please let us know with your enquiry if you would be interested to include this as part of your tour.

A repeat visit to Vietnam is still not enough to enjoy everything there is to offer. We all felt that although the cities have become more modern, cleaner and brighter since our last respective visits, the charm and exoticism still runs through every city and rural village. We would recommend a 3 or 4 centre tour to Vietnam to explore the different cultures and cuisines. Contact us to discuss a tailor made itinerary with our tried and tested recommendations and personal tips!