Xin Chào Beautiful Vietnam

Breathtaking view over Hanoi from Lotte Tower.

Address for this view: 54 Lieu Giai Street, Cong Vi Ward, Ba Dinh District Lotte Centre, Hanoi 10000, Vietnam

For many first time travelers, beyond its beauty, Vietnam can feel a little overwhelming from time to time. It’s been the same to me. Arriving in Hanoi at first, I had to adapt to the cities raw spirit and to the rushing flow of people pouring into the cities streets from every direction. The vibe of the buildings sets in tirelessly making you spin from one direction to another - wow, it’s just a lot to take in.

But don’t judge too hastily: With all of that the chance of experiencing kindness and heart-warming encounters is waiting just around every corner. Believe me when I say, it’s just a big, beautiful adventure jumping not only into discovering Hanoi but as many regions of Vietnam as possible. :) By doing so, you’ll realize what a rough, nonetheless beautiful diamond you’re facing when traveling Vietnam.

Let’s take a closer look at some aspects, that made me fall in love with this impressive country.

1. Without a Doubt: Its People

From the busy streets of the city to the tranquil countryside, I was greeted with kindness and genuine hospitality wherever I went. It started at the airport, when the people who picked us up by car gave us the most beautiful flower bouquets as a welcoming gift. It was in the big city when locals engaged with me in a curious, absolutely open-minded and friendly way. Or in the countryside, when I was a little clumsy at first helping with rice harvest: People stayed patient and friendly, showing me how to do my task correctly so I wouldn’t feel excluded. Not to mention all the home-cooked meals, prepared with so much effort and love that it made me feel sentimental and just grateful. There are so much more situations I can think of. Vietnams people definitely created the best lasting memories for me.

2. All The Natural Wonders

I have not been in every region of Vietnam, yet. But what I’ve seen so far, was nothing but stunning. From the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay to natures beauty of Ninh Bình that I’m not able to describe in adequate words to the charm of Đà Nẵng beaches - those and many more landscapes left me spellbound. <3 I swear, awe and wonder were to be found everywhere. There’s an unique charm to every region and it’s just a paradise for nature lovers and adventure-time seekers alike.

3. Energy And Vibe

So much going on in Vietnam's cities: They pulse with energy and vitality, blending old-world charm and modern dynamism in fascinating ways. The buzz that was overwhelming to me at first was something I kinda started loving. I can’t really describe it. When observing the bustling streets from within a nice café I just found beauty in this small chaos being captivated how everybody was going their way. And lets not forget about the colorful shop-houses and markets. Wandering through those, there was so much to see, hear, smell and taste. I went with the flow, maybe that’s why it became less and less overstimulating to me and rather a feast for my senses. Not gonna lie: From all this impressions I fell drop dead to bed every night sleeping tight like a stone, haha. But seriously, exploring countless alleyways lined with shops and small restaurants, visiting ancient temples, and viewing vibrant street art - the dynamic energy I experienced was so much fun! :)

4. The Food, Obviously

Oh guys, Vietnam's cuisine truly is a symphony of taste sensations: Fresh ingredients, bold flavors, aromatic spices - they all contribute to the best meals I ever had. For me it all started with Phở. Of course I had Phở many times before, but this one in Vietnam… it’s been a revelation. It was the first meal after arrival, it’s been in a small neighborhood restaurant, we were sitting outside on those typical small plastic chairs, it was 8 o’clock in the morning and I was hella tired. If I tell you, this Phở brought back life to me, I mean that people around me witnessed my pale, tired face returning to a humane color and me going from stand-by mode to “I can rule the world”-mode, haha. :D
From that first dish on, everything was just amazing (except for one time, my fault, another story xD): Phở, Bánh mì, spring rolls, homemade meals, many soup variations, and a Cà Phê Sữa always in my hand - this culinary journey was a dream.

5. Budget-friendliness

Once you’re able to afford the pricy flight tickets, Vietnam itself is really budget-friendly. There’re so many convenient ways to get around (Grab, bus, train, airplain even) and all of them are so affordable and worth their money. And those accommodations, holy moly! I gotta be honest, I’m a little uptight and picky when it comes to accommodations. For example hostels where I’d have to share my room and bathroom with strangers are not a travel option for me (anymore, I’m old :D). That’s why in general I actually do go for pricier hotels, airbnbs an such when traveling. But guys, in Vietnam - wow! I slept in the most beautiful hotel rooms I’ve ever been to and they were so, so affordable, I swear! I couldn’t believe it myself, but that was just fantastic about Vietnam.
So yeah, all in all those affordable accommodation options combined with inexpensive restaurants/ street food, reasonable transportation and low-cost attractions, made Vietnam absolutely budget-friendly to explore and experience. Loved it. :)

You See: I Fell for Vietnam

I met Vietnam as a rough diamond which revealed its true beauty while I took my time exploring it. And by that, it just captured my heart. From its cultural heritage to its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities and welcoming people, Vietnam brought me so many experiences and left me longing for more. I hope you could get a feeling for why in the end it’s actually so easy falling in love with this rough diamond. <3