Overwhelmed by all the to-do in Vietnam lists? We only focus on some of the most unique experiences.

Travel Expert and our personal pal Emma Manning recently returned from an incredible, eye-opening adventure through Vietnam. After covering the country from bottom to top, here are Emma’s top 5 ‘must do’ experiences that you simply cannot miss.

Learn to paddle a round boat in Bai Xep

Bai Xep is paradise, with white sandy beaches that stretch for miles. We stayed at The Haven, a place that is really off the beaten track. It’s so peaceful and I am so glad we were shown this place to relax in! There were very few Westerners in most locations I visited, and the locals were always so friendly and helpful. You absolutely must try the ‘round boats’ here — $10 and it’s an experience you will never forget!

Bai Xep Boating in Vietnam

2. Cruise under hidden caves to find floating temples in Ninh Binh

I’ll always remember the cruise under the caves in Ninh Binh. It is a hidden secret, and rowing under the caves involved actually laying in the boat to squeeze through 2 meters of space – I was laughing uncontrollably! But it was a very unexpected experience and beyond beautiful. I’ll always remember standing by the floating temples surrounded by limestone trying to take it all in!

3. Scenic motorbike tour in Da Lat

Possibly one of the most incredible educational, beautiful and FUN days I have ever had. We were able to ride (or be a passenger) on a scooter for the day and head to local coffee bean farms, learning how the Vietnamese coffee is made and trying various types – even the expensive “weasel poo” coffee! We also went to a rice wine factory (one sip of a shot is enough…that stuff blows your mind), learnt how they make incense sticks, and a silkworm farm. Riding through endless fields after strong black coffee and rice wine – well – it’s a MUST!

4. Discover the ‘Dark Cave’ in Phong Nha

The best activity in Vietnam! Do not miss this – where else can you zipline off a platform across the river next to a cave, then swim into the cave and explore through mud up to your waist? You literally have to get onto your belly and crawl – imagine a cave filled with melting caramel – and your whole group falling, laughing, rolling in this mud. INSANE!

5. Take an overnight cruise in Halong Bay near Hanoi

Not far from Hanoi, you can discover beautiful limestone islands and emerald green waters in Halong Bay. An overnight cruise (like Stray’s Halong Bay Boat Adventure) is the best way to go. Words don’t do it justice and it’s an epic way to finish your time in Vietnam.

Crusing along Halong Bay
Crusing along Halong Bay

As a travel expert from Peterpans Adventure Travel in Queenstown, New Zealand, Emma Manning knows what she’s talking about when it comes to making the most of any trip! If you want to see and do everything she mentioned (and more!) check out the Stray Asia Tours and get off the beaten track in Vietnam.

Posted in ,
Stray guest writer profile picture

Travel Mate (guest blogger)

Have you travelled on a Stray tour in New Zealand, Australia or Asia? How about creating a blog post about your experience? Or are you a frequent traveller and want to add your travel knowledge to our travel blog? Get in touch. We welcome relevant guest posts.

Or check out these articles for more travel inspiration

4 Simple yet Fun Card Games to Play to Kill Time when Travelling

A simple 52-card deck absolutely belongs in every backpack. Apart from being a fun solution to kill time, it is easy to carry and space-saving. Here are the best yet easy card games to play while travelling.

Read More

10 Mistakes First Timers Make in Southeast Asia

You’ve booked flights to Southeast Asia? Awesome! This is quite possibly the best idea of your life. You’re going to have an amazing time, but in order to be a savvy traveller, you need to avoid the most common mistakes […]

Read More

Essential Packing List for Travelling Southeast Asia

Luckily because Southeast Asia is usually hot, it’s possible, and advisable, to pack lightly. I didn’t. I found myself looking through the contents of my backpack after a week in Southeast Asia and asking myself ‘why?’

Read More
>
Scroll to Top