With fond memories of Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant streets and Danang’s scenic charm still fresh in my mind, I was excited to embark on a new adventure through Vietnam—also known as the Land of the Blue Dragon. This time, it was about discovering new wonders, from the luxury of Vietnam Airlines’ A350 business class to the natural beauty of Halong Bay and the cultural richness of Hanoi, Dalat, and Ho Chi Minh City.
Vietnam Airlines A350: A Business Class Journey
Our adventure began with a night flight from Delhi to Hanoi aboard Vietnam Airlines’ newly introduced Airbus A350, which made its debut on this route in May 2024. We were flying business class, and our expectations were high. Vietnam Airlines has become one of Southeast Asia’s pioneering carriers to operate the A350, reflecting its commitment to comfort and innovation.
The business class cabin made an immediate impression with its sleek, inviting design. The 1-2-1 seating arrangement ensured direct aisle access for all passengers, and the full-flat seats provided ultimate comfort for a restful flight. From the moment we boarded, the warm hospitality of the crew set the perfect tone. A thoughtfully curated Indian meal, complete with cocktails, appetizers, and desserts, made the journey as delightful as it was comfortable. It was the perfect way to start our Vietnamese adventure.
Halong Bay: Nature’s Masterpiece
After landing in Hanoi, our group took a scenic two-hour drive to the stunning Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Despite a cloudy sky, the bay’s beauty shone through. The majestic limestone islands rising from emerald waters created an almost magical atmosphere.
We embarked on the largest cruise in the bay—the Ambassador Cruise—where we enjoyed breakfast and the rich, creamy flavor of Vietnamese iced coffee made with condensed milk. As we sailed through the bay, we explored iconic sites like the awe-inspiring Sung Sot Cave, known for its illuminated stalactites and stalagmites. A visit to Titov Island rewarded us with panoramic views of the bay after a brief hike, while Luvon Cave offered a serene excursion through its dramatic rock formations. The day concluded with a stunning sunset as we cruised back to the harbor, leaving us in awe of Halong Bay’s beauty.
Hanoi: A Day of Iconic Discoveries
Back in Hanoi, we spent a day exploring some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. We started with the solemn Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where Vietnam’s revered leader rests, before moving on to the tranquil Tran Quoc Pagoda, Hanoi’s oldest pagoda located on the serene banks of West Lake.
One of the day’s highlights was indulging in the famous egg coffee at Hanoi Coffee Culture. The creamy, frothy drink was a delightful surprise, and watching it being prepared added to the charm. We ended the day with a relaxing Xich Lo (cycle rickshaw) ride through Hanoi’s bustling streets, soaking in the vibrant city life. As night fell, Beer Street, also known as ‘Bia Hoi Corner,’ came alive with its lively social scene, a perfect spot to unwind with street food and local beer.
Dalat: A Blend of Coffee and Scenic Beauty
Next, we traveled to Dalat, a picturesque mountain town known for its cool climate, French-inspired architecture, and thriving coffee culture. Our visit to The Puppy Farm and its variety of animals, along with tours of organic farms, was both fun and educational. The fascinating Clay Tunnel, with its intricate sculptures and underground artwork, showcased Vietnamese creativity and folklore in a dreamlike setting.
We also explored the Bao Dai Summer Palace, a reminder of Vietnam’s royal past, before visiting a local coffee farm to learn about Dalat’s famous Arabica coffee. Each stop revealed a new facet of this enchanting town, making our time in Dalat truly memorable.
Ho Chi Minh City: A Vibrant Urban Experience
Having visited Ho Chi Minh City before, I took time to enjoy its lively street culture, souvenir shopping, and café life. The energy of the city, with its bustling shops and street vendors, made for an unforgettable urban experience. While many in our group explored the Mekong Delta and Củ Chi Tunnels, I opted for a visit to an incense-making factory outside the city, learning about this traditional craft.
Vietnam: A Rising Favorite for Indian Travelers
Vietnam has quickly become a favorite destination for Indian travelers, and it’s easy to see why. The country offers a wide range of experiences at various price points, with MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) events increasingly being held here. Throughout our journey, we enjoyed a mix of Vietnamese and Indian cuisine, making us feel at home while exploring this fascinating country.
With exceptional service from Vietnam Airlines and unforgettable experiences in every city, Vietnam offers a seamless blend of culture, comfort, and adventure. This incredible country promises to leave a lasting impression on any traveler lucky enough to explore its wonders.
