Nilesh's Family Trip Review in the Heart of Vietnam
Our decision to explore Vietnam as a family of three—myself, my wife, and our teenage son—was born out of a desire to combine adventure, culture, and moments of togetherness. As someone in the hospitality industry, I often hear about the transformative power of travel, and Vietnam kept popping up in conversations.
From its breathtaking natural beauty to its vibrant history, it seemed to promise exactly what we needed.
The plan was to reward my son after his gruelling exams, and to my delight, his excitement mirrored ours. Thanks to Thrillophilia’s carefully curated package, our nine-day escape to Vietnam became a whirlwind of discovery, laughter, and cherished memories.
Where Time Wears a Smile
Hanoi welcomed us with its chaotic charm—an orchestra of motorbike horns, bustling streets, and the scent of pho wafting through the air. Our hotel was nestled in the heart of the action, a stone’s throw from Old Quarter’s labyrinthine streets.
Our first evening was an exploration of Hoan Kiem Lake, its calm waters cradling the iconic Ngoc Son Temple. We walked hand in hand, marvelling at the sight of local families gathered for laughter and street performers juggling in sync with the city’s lively pulse. Our dinner marked our first taste of authentic pho, each steaming bowl was filled with rich flavours which felt like warmth and comfort
One highlight was a cycling tour through the Old Quarter, where the city’s rich history unfolded with every turn. Narrow streets filled with colourful shops and buzzing cafes told stories of Hanoi’s vibrant soul. Our guide introduced us to bun cha, a smoky, tangy pork dish that instantly became a family favourite.
A Symphony of Serenity and Adventure
Halong Bay was a masterpiece of nature, and boarding a cruise felt like entering a different realm. The emerald waters, dotted with dramatic limestone karsts, were otherworldly. As the boat glided through the bay, my wife and I sat on the deck, soaking in the serene beauty while my son explored every corner of the ship, thrilled by the novelty of being at sea.
Kayaking was an adventure we’ll never forget. Paddling through hidden caves and alongside towering cliffs felt like stepping into a nature documentary. At one point, our guide pointed out small crabs clinging to the rocks, and my son’s excitement bubbled over into endless questions.
We paused near Ti Top Island to take in the panoramic views, the tranquillity of the moment leaving us in quiet awe.
That evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, we sat on the deck watching the sky turn into a canvas of colours. The cruise crew surprised us with a lantern release ceremony, where we each made a wish and sent it floating on the gentle waters—a moment both magical and deeply personal.
Lanterns, Laughter, and Life’s Simple Joys
If Hanoi was a chaotic charm, Hoi An was serene magic. The old town, with its glowing lanterns and centuries-old architecture, felt like a page from a storybook. Our hotel offered a peaceful retreat, but the real allure lay in Hoi An’s cobbled streets and artisanal shops.
One of our favourite moments was visiting a small café run by a kind-hearted woman who served us banh xeo, a crispy pancake stuffed with shrimp and herbs. She showed my son how to roll it in rice paper and dip it in the tangy sauce, making the meal as much about learning as eating.
We spent an afternoon cycling through lush paddy fields, greeting cheerful farmers and spotting water buffaloes lazing in the sun. A stop at a mat-weaving workshop turned into a delightful cultural exchange as my wife tried her hand at weaving, much to the amusement of our host.
As the sun set, we found ourselves on a boat ride along the Thu Bon River. Lanterns floated gently on the water, their glow reflecting our collective joy. My son marvelled at the sight, calling it "the most beautiful thing ever."
From Tunnels to Triumphs
Our final leg brought us to Ho Chi Minh City, a vibrant metropolis blending modernity with historical depth. The Cu Chi Tunnels were a highlight, offering an eye-opening glimpse into Vietnam’s wartime resilience.
Crawling through the narrow underground passages was both exhilarating and humbling. My son, fascinated by the ingenuity of the tunnels, spent the rest of the day peppering our guide with questions.
The Reunification Palace left us equally awestruck, its halls filled with stories of Vietnam’s journey through conflict to peace. Wandering through its historic rooms, I felt a deep sense of connection to the resilience of the Vietnamese people.
On our last evening, we treated ourselves to a rooftop dinner overlooking the bustling city. The lights of Ho Chi Minh City sparkled like stars, and we toasted to a trip that had exceeded every expectation.
What We Learned and Loved
Vietnam was an experience that brought us closer as a family. Each moment, from navigating bustling markets to marvelling at natural wonders, felt like a piece of a larger puzzle that told the story of this incredible country.
Lastly, if you’re considering a trip to Vietnam, I wholeheartedly recommend Thrillophilia. Their meticulous planning, seamless transfers, and well-chosen stays allowed us to focus on the experience rather than the logistics. While we didn’t manage to fit in Sapa or Cat Ba Island, our trip was nothing short of perfect.
As we flew back home, I couldn’t help but feel grateful—not just for the sights we’d seen, but for the moments we’d shared. Vietnam wasn’t just a vacation; it was a journey into the heart of a country and into the hearts of my family.
Read more: Thrillophilia Vietnam Reviews