My Epic North-to-South Vietnam Backpacking Adventure!
Hey everyone! Just got back to the States after an amazing trip to Vietnam! I'm so stoked to finally tick off a huge bucket list item: backpacking from the South to the North of Vietnam! This trip was absolutely insane – I experienced every mode of transport imaginable, from planes and trains to yachts, cable cars, motorbikes, bicycles, canoes, boats, and even good ol' hiking! I tackled every terrain imaginable, from the flatlands to the highlands, mountains, and stunning bays. It was epic beyond words! Here are some of the spots I hit up – get ready for some serious wanderlust!
The Initial Plan (That Went Hilariously Wrong!)
First, I planned to take a comfy overnight train from Saigon to Nha Trang. Imagine waking up refreshed, ready to explore the coast heading north! But as they say, life had other plans! A massive storm hit central Vietnam, derailing my perfect schedule. But hey, a little rain never hurt anyone! I decided to flip the script and fly straight to the North and work my way down. Best. Decision. Ever. 👌
Days of Adventure: From Hanoi to Ha Long Bay
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Day 1: Hanoi Nights
Flew from Saigon to Hanoi. Evening was all about indulging in "Bun Cha", Tràng Tiền ice cream, and soaking up the electric vibes of Hanoi's Old Quarter with some street-side lemon tea.
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Day 2: Hanoi to Sapa - Mountain Views!
Morning: "Bun Oc" soup and a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, followed by coffee with a view at the "Hàm Cá Mập" building. Afternoon: Bus to Sapa! My hotel had an infinity pool overlooking the mountains – pure Instagram gold! 🤣
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Day 3: Sapa's Delights & Fansipan's Peak
Started with "Cốn Sủi Ông Há" - a Sapa specialty! Then explored Cat Cat Village (tip: park close to the entrance!). In the afternoon, I took the Mường Hoa railway and cable car to conquer Fansipan, the "Roof of Indochina". It was foggy, but still an amazing experience! That night, I hopped on a bus to Ha Giang.
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Day 4: Ha Giang's Stunning Loops
Hired a local guide and motorbike. We visited a local family in the mountains for lunch and hit up the famous Dốc Thẩm Mã pass. Pro tip: you need strong motorbike skills to navigate the winding mountain roads of Ha Giang! It's worth it for the views! Booked a bus to Ninh Binh in the evening.
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Day 5: Ninh Binh's Enchanting Beauty
Stayed at a homestay near Mua Cave with super-friendly hosts. Rented a motorbike and explored the magical landscape. Paddled through Tràng An, hiked Mua Cave, and explored Hoa Lư Ancient Capital at night.
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Day 6: Ninh Binh to Ha Long Bay
Visited Tuyet Tinh Coc in the morning, then took a bus to Ha Long Bay. Checked into Mường Thanh Hotel with awesome views of the bay and cable car. Tried the local squid cake specialty – delicious!
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Day 7: Ha Long Bay Cruise Extravaganza!
Booked a 5-star day cruise. Everything was taken care of! Enjoyed a buffet lunch while sailing through the stunning limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay, explored Sung Sot Cave, kayaked at Chuon Chuon Island, and swam at a beach (can't remember the name!). Flew to Da Nang in the evening.
Central Vietnam & The Journey South
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Day 8: Da Nang & Hoi An Charms
Headed to Ba Na Hills via cable car (not as impressive as Fansipan, but still fun!). Enjoyed Banh Xeo Ba Duong for lunch. Explored Hoi An in the evening. Da Nang taxi drivers are the nicest! I hired one for the whole day.
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Day 9: Da Nang to Nha Trang - By Train!
The taxi driver even bought me Banh Mi for breakfast! Took the train to Nha Trang. As a Mekong Delta native, experiencing the Vietnamese railway was a first! Highly recommend it! Arrived in Nha Trang and had Bun Sua for dinner.
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Day 10: Nha Trang's Island Hopping & Relaxation
Booked a VIP 3-island tour. Mud baths, snorkeling, jet skiing, swimming pools, waterfalls… It was a blast! Skipped the sunset cruise (did that in Ha Long Bay) and enjoyed some delicious lobster at Thanh Sương restaurant. The grilled sea urchin with eggs was amazing! Checked out Hon Chong Cafe, then flew back to Saigon, ending my 10-day adventure!
Final Thoughts: Just Do It!
This trip was truly eye-opening. So many places, so many delicious foods, so many unforgettable experiences! I fulfilled my dream of traveling from the South to the North of Vietnam. I hope my sharing inspires you to experience the beauty of this S-shaped country. Life is short! If you're young, healthy, and free, just go for it!
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