Vietnam & Cambodia

From Hanoi to Siem Reap – My Southeast Asia Adventure 🌏✈️

After what felt like the world’s longest journey (Newcastle → Heathrow → Bangkok → Hanoi), I finally touched down in Vietnam with Thai Airways, and I have to say, I was seriously impressed with their service. Smooth, friendly, and comfortable,definitely one to fly with again!

First Impressions: Hanoi 🇻🇳

A quick transfer whisked me into the heart of Hanoi’s French Quarter, where I checked into the charming Mövenpick Hotel for the first two nights. It’s perfectly placed for exploring the city and has that lovely balance of comfort and style.

That evening, I got to explore the jaw-dropping Capella Hanoi. Wow. 🤩 Honestly, some of the nicest hotel rooms I’ve ever seen. We did a site inspection, enjoyed a fabulous dinner (I politely passed on the eel 🙈), and turned in early for the busy days ahead.

Day 2 – Temples, Cyclo Rides & Train Street

The day started with some culture: a visit to Ho Chi Minh’s former residence, the One Pillar Pagoda, and the Temple of Literature, all full of history and beauty.

Lunch was at the elegant LY Club, and then we hopped on cyclos for a leisurely ride through the buzzing Old Quarter, such a fun way to see the city!

After a quick refresh back at the hotel, we checked out the luxurious Metropole Hanoi (absolutely stunning) before enjoying a traditional Vietnamese dinner. But the highlight? Evening drinks at Train Street! Yes – I survived the rush of trains whooshing by 🙌😂.

Day 3 – Ha Long Bay Magic

We hit the road for a scenic two-hour drive to Ha Long Bay, and oh my goodness, nothing prepares you for how breathtaking it is.

After a seamless check-in, we boarded the elegant Indochina Grand Lan Ha cruise. From canoeing through caves, swimming, and even a cookery class, to watching the sun set over those limestone karsts, it was pure magic. Honestly, I wish I’d booked two nights!

Days 4 & 5 – Hoi An Charm

Next stop: Hoi An. After a short flight to Da Nang, we checked into the riverside Anantara Hoi An. Stunning hotel, wonderful meals, and the perfect base for exploring this UNESCO town.

Day 5 was all about the senses, the smells and colours of the morning market, a serene boat trip along the river, and a hands-on Vietnamese cooking class (let’s just say my skills need a little refining 😂). We also had the chance to make traditional lanterns and wander the enchanting Old Town on foot. Magical.

Days 6 & 7 – Cambodia Calling 🇰🇭

After one last dreamy breakfast in Hoi An, I indulged in some bargain shopping and an $8 massage (yes, really!) before heading to the airport. That evening, we landed in Siem Reap, Cambodia, checking into the incredible Shinta Mani.

Designed by the same genius behind Capella Hanoi (Bill Bensley), this hotel is a stunning, stylish, luxurious, but still warm and welcoming. Highlights?

• Gorgeous pools

• Chic rooms & private pool villas (with butlers!)

• Two fab restaurants & the very cool Bensley Bar (the martinis are chef’s kiss)

• Spa treatments that feel ultra-lux but are still very reasonably priced

And for the early risers, they even prepare breakfast boxes for sunrise tours to Angkor Wat.

Speaking of which, our day exploring Angkor Wat and Ta Prohm (hello, Lara Croft fans!) was unforgettable. Add in the genuine warmth of the Cambodian people, and Siem Reap quickly stole my heart. ❤️

Final Thoughts

This trip has been everything: culture, history, food, adventure, and a big dose of luxury. Vietnam and Cambodia are destinations that leave you spellbound, and I know I’ll be back.

If you’re tempted by this kind of trip, a mix of hand-picked hotels, cultural highlights, and a splash of adventure, gett in touch. I’d love to help plan your own unforgettable journey!