Vietnam has always held a sense of mystery and adventure for us, and this year, we decided it was the perfect destination for our family vacation. Traveling long distances with young children can sometimes be daunting, but our two weeks in Vietnam turned out to be another fantastic experience—an immersion into a world so different from what we know in Europe. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the tranquil beaches of Da Nang, and the ancient charm of Hoi An, every moment of our trip was filled with new discoveries.

The Bustling Life of Hanoi

We started our journey in Hanoi, a city bursting with energy and life. The streets buzzed with motorbikes, street vendors, and locals going about their day. For our girls, Hanoi was like stepping into another world—a colorful, fast-paced environment that kept them wide-eyed at every turn. They loved the street food markets, where we all tried new dishes like pho and banh mi. The flavors were vibrant, and the atmosphere was alive with chatter and laughter, making every meal feel like an adventure.

Hanoi’s busy life was a stark contrast to the quiet corners of Europe we were used to, but that’s what made it so exciting. The girls particularly enjoyed exploring the city’s temples and lakes, and they even started learning a few Vietnamese phrases from the friendly locals, who were always happy to greet them with smiles and warmth.

The Sandy Beaches of Da Nang

After the buzz of Hanoi, we flew south to Da Nang, where the atmosphere shifted from busy city life to the laid-back vibe of coastal beaches. Da Nang’s beaches are stunning—long stretches of soft sand and gentle waves, perfect for families. It was here that our girls tried surfing for the first time. Watching them brave the waves, laughing and cheering each other on, was one of those unforgettable family moments. It wasn’t long before they were standing up on their boards (with a few wobbles, of course), feeling proud of their newfound skills.

The beach was a place of relaxation and play, and we spent our days soaking in the sun, building sandcastles, and enjoying the ocean breeze. The seafood in Da Nang was also exceptional, with fresh catches cooked right on the beach, making every meal a treat for both us and the kids.

Exploring the Ancient City of Hoi An

Our final stop was the ancient city of Hoi An, a true gem with its lantern-lit streets, historical architecture, and vibrant culture. Hoi An felt like stepping back in time, where old meets new in the most charming way. We explored the narrow alleyways, visited centuries-old temples, and marveled at the beautifully preserved heritage of the city.

One of the highlights for the girls was the lantern festival, where they got to release floating lanterns onto the river, making wishes as they watched them drift away. The night sky, glowing with hundreds of lanterns, was nothing short of magical. Hoi An’s slow pace was a perfect way to wind down our trip, allowing us to soak in the culture and relax after our days of adventure.

A Journey to Remember

Our two weeks in Vietnam were a whirlwind of discovery, from the busy streets of Hanoi to the calm shores of Da Nang, and the enchanting beauty of Hoi An. It’s these kinds of trips that remind us how valuable travel is for our family. Experiencing a completely different culture, tasting new foods, and meeting people with such warmth and kindness left a lasting impression on all of us, especially the girls.

They not only tried surfing for the first time, but they also embraced every new experience with curiosity and enthusiasm—whether it was learning about Vietnamese traditions, tasting unfamiliar dishes, or simply exploring the new world around them. Vietnam has now become one of those destinations we’ll remember for a long time, with the feeling that we’ve only scratched the surface of what it has to offer.

As we return home, we carry with us the memories of this beautiful country, its people, and the adventures we shared. And of course, the girls are already asking, “Where are we going next?”