Vietnam had been on my radar for decades. I still remember when my dad travelled there in 1995, just as the country was opening up to tourism. He came back with videos, photos and souvenirs that left a lasting impression. Later, one of my best friends at uni, whose family is from Vietnam, told me more about the country and introduced me to the food, which I quickly fell in love with. I always knew I’d go one day.

We finally made it happen over Easter 2025, choosing Vietnam as a last-minute destination while I was recovering from a knee injury. It was the perfect mix of culture, history and nature – rich in experiences without being too physically demanding. Of course, the country has changed a lot since my dad’s first visit, and some places are now firmly on the mass tourism trail. Still, we had a great time and managed to find some quieter “hidden” gems.

With beautiful beaches right on our doorstep in Australia, we skipped the coast and focused on the mountains, cities and cultural sites. Below you’ll find all the articles from that trip, including practical tips, destination highlights and our full itinerary.

Check out my travel tips to plan your trip to Vietnam

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