Exploring Vietnam & Cambodia:

Exploring Vietnam & Cambodia:

From Hanoi to Angkor

Vietnam had long been on my travel list, and this trip didn’t disappoint. I explored the bustling streets of Hanoi, sailed through the stunning Halong Bay, experienced the charm of Hoi An, and ended in Siem Reap, Cambodia, marvelling at the ancient temples of Angkor.

Hanoi – Culture, Cuisine, and Luxury

Hanoi is a city of contrasts: chaotic streets filled with motorbikes, fragrant street food, and pockets of tranquil beauty. I stayed at the Mövenpick Hotel Hanoi, which is situated in the French Quarter, and offers a peaceful base for exploring the city. During my time in Hanoi, I also visited two iconic hotels: the colonial elegance of Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi and the bold, artistic Capella Hanoi.

We had a city tour of Hanoi, which began with the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is located in Ba Dinh Square and is regarded as one of Vietnam’s most important political and spiritual sites. Whilst in the complex, we also visited:

• Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, where he lived a simple life

• The Presidential Palace (view from outside)

• The One Pillar Pagoda, a unique lotus-shaped structure dating back to 1049

In the afternoon on we took a Cyclo Tour of the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake, a really fun way of exploring the city and immersing yourself in its sights and sounds. Our day in Hanoi ended with a Traditional Water Puppet Show.

Halong Bay – Nature’s Masterpiece

A cruise through Halong Bay, with its emerald waters and towering limestone cliffs, was pure magic. Kayaking through quiet lagoons, exploring hidden caves, and watching the sun set over the dramatic landscape made it one of the most serene and unforgettable experiences of my trip.

Hoi An – Riverside Elegance and Lantern Nights

In Hoi An, I stayed at the Anantara Hoi An Resort, overlooking the peaceful Thu Bon River. A visit to the Four Seasons The Nam Hai, Hoi An, for a site inspection and lunch offered a glimpse into Vietnam’s ultimate luxury resorts, which sit on the most stunning stretch of pristine beach.

A real highlight of Hoi An for me was a Cookery School I attended, where with expert guidance from the Head Chef, our group were taught how to prepare four traditional and delicate Vietnamese dishes, and then of course we got to enjoy trying our own creations.

I also really enjoyed strolling through the Ancient Town and UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is Hoi An, especially in the lantern-lit evenings, which made it an utterly enchanting place to spend time.

Siem Reap – Temples and Timeless Design

Flying to Siem Reap, I stayed at the stunning Shinta Mani Hotel, designed by Bill Bensley. Having already visited Capella Hanoi, I noticed Bensley’s signature style once again, a playful luxury and dramatic design which threaded through both properties.

Over two days, I explored:

• Angkor Wat – A breathtaking sunrise over the world’s largest religious monument.

• Angkor Thom – The Bayon Temple with its smiling stone faces.

• Ta Prohm – The iconic “Tomb Raider” temple, where jungle roots twist around ancient ruins.

Each site offered a unique sense of wonder and history, leaving a lasting impression.

Final Thoughts

From Hanoi’s vibrant streets to the peaceful waters of Halong Bay, the riverside charm of Hoi An, and the spiritual majesty of Angkor, this journey was a perfect blend of culture, nature, and history. Staying at exceptional properties like the Mövenpick Hanoi, Anantara Hoi An, and Shinta Mani Siem Reap, while visiting world-class hotels and iconic sites, made this trip both luxurious and unforgettable.

Vietnam and Cambodia aren’t just destinations—they’re experiences I’ll carry with me forever.