VIETNAM

I just got back from my first big international trip and it was incredible. I spent nine days exploring northern Vietnam with my best friend, Halle Kearns. We flew into Hanoi and stayed for two days in the Old Quarter. It's not built up or Americanized at all. It's authentic Vietnam, and we loved it for that. But the traffic is no joke. Making it across the street without getting run over by a car or moped is a huge accomplishment! There are literally no rules on the road so it is just madness. But besides that, Hanoi was was such an eye opening experience. We got to see a couple temples and visit the market place and just walk around and try some of the different food. 

After our couple days in Hanoi, we took the 5.5 hour bus ride to Sapa. This is the northern mountain region, really close to the border of China. Beautiful is an understatement! I've never seen anything like it or remotely close. The mountains were so lush and green and had rice terraces all the way up the siders. While the landscape was absolutely breathtaking, getting to meet some of the local villagers was hands down my favorite part.

After Sapa, we headed out to Halong Bay. This is the coast where there are thousands of little lime stone islands dotting the water. We got lucky with a sunny forecast the whole time we were there! We got to rent mopeds and cruise through the little shops and down to the beach where there was a tiki hut with the yummiest mango smoothies. 

Overall, our trip was the perfect mix of exploring, learning about the culture, and vacation time. We actually made a YouTube video with little snippets of the adventure! I think Vietnam is a place that all travelers should try to experience. It definitely ignited the travel bug in me even more. 

Where to next?

-Cierra Jade