Not only attracted by the natural scenery or famous destinations, Catherine Helmer - a tourist from England - said that what she remembered most after the cross-Vietnam trip was the people, especially children in the highlands.
During a four-week journey in February 2026, Catherine traveled through many landmarks stretching from North to South, experiencing the diverse culture, cuisine and pace of life of each region.
She started the trip in Hanoi, then conquered the Ha Giang route - which is considered one of the most beautiful and challenging backpacking routes in Vietnam. It was here that real experiences left her with many deep thoughts.
According to Catherine, the Ha Giang journey is not only impressive with its majestic scenery but also with the lives of local people. She was particularly touched to witness the image of highland children having to travel long distances every day to go to school.
Seeing the children overcome many difficulties in deprived conditions made me both admire and ponder a lot," she shared. Stories about the resilience and adaptability of the community here have become the most memorable highlights of the trip.
After Ha Giang, Catherine continued to Sa Pa, where she reunited with her family, before moving to Ha Long Bay and participating in a two-day yacht trip. She described this as one of the most relaxing and impressive experiences, with majestic natural scenery and peaceful space on the sea.
Leaving Ha Long, the female tourist visited Ninh Binh and stayed at an eco-resort. Here, she had the opportunity to celebrate Lunar New Year with the host family.
“It was an extremely special experience. I clearly felt the warmth, hospitality and traditional values of Vietnamese people,” Catherine said.
The journey continues to take her to Hoi An - a place that brings completely different experiences. During the day, the ancient town appears with a quiet beauty, rich in historical imprints. When night falls, the space becomes vivid with brilliant lanterns, bustling markets and bustling eateries and bars.
Catherine also participated in many interesting activities such as rowing a coconut basket boat - an experience she described as "very fun and memorable". In addition, she also spent time relaxing at the coconut beach, enjoying the peaceful space and coastal cafes.
After Hoi An, Catherine continued her journey to Da Lat before ending the trip in Ho Chi Minh City. Looking back at the whole trip, she affirmed that Vietnam has become one of the most favorite countries she has ever visited.
According to Catherine, what impressed her was not only the scenery or cuisine - which has far exceeded expectations - but also the friendliness and hospitality of the people. She also realized that traditional cultural values are still deeply preserved in daily life.
In particular, experience in remote areas like Ha Giang has helped her better understand the challenges in developing infrastructure as well as the living conditions of the people here. However, their persistence, flexibility and spirit of overcoming difficulties have become a great source of inspiration.
The journey is over, but memories of people - especially children in the highlands of Ha Giang - still linger, becoming the thing Catherine thinks about most when leaving Vietnam.
