Two Australian tourists Jonathan and David spent nearly a month planning a two-week cross-Vietnam exploration trip with the goal of experiencing outstanding destinations of Vietnam while still keeping the total cost below 1,000 USD.
Before leaving, the two spent a lot of time learning about destinations, cuisine and means of transportation through social networking platforms. After many considerations, they built an optimal itinerary to both save costs and be able to explore as many lands as possible.
We spent about a month learning everything, from food, locations in each place to preparing the most reasonable spending plan," Jonathan shared.
According to the male tourist, the purpose of the trip is not only to explore the majestic natural beauty of Vietnam but also to enjoy local cuisine with a reasonable budget.
The scenery in real life is much more impressive than what I have ever seen," Jonathan shared.
During many days of conquering Ha Giang Loop, Jonathan said that each curve opens up a completely different scene. Some places are majestic rocky mountains, some places are green fields stretching out, interspersed with peaceful villages nestled at the foot of the mountain.
To save costs and actively explore as desired, Jonathan and David decided to rent a motorbike instead of going on a tour.
That experience was really great. The first two days the weather was very nice, but the third day was not very favorable when we had to cross nearly 180 km of mountain pass in drizzle," Mr. David shared.
When asked why he continued the journey in unfavorable weather conditions, Jonathan said that both had booked a hotel in Ha Giang city (now Ha Giang ward), so they decided to travel on schedule.
Leaving the northern mountains, the two tourists continued to Ha Long. Here, they enjoyed many local seafood dishes and experienced kayaking to explore the beauty of the bay.
We rented kayaks to explore Ha Long. Initially, rowing was quite difficult because we were not used to it, but it was really a very interesting and memorable experience," Jonathan said.
After three days in Ha Long, Jonathan and David continued their journey to Da Nang.
The first stop of both was My Khe beach, Jonathan spent time swimming, walking along the shore and enjoying local seafood here.
I really like the atmosphere in Da Nang. The city is clean, modern but still retains its peaceful appearance. Just a few minutes to get from the center to the sea, which really impressed us," the male tourist commented.
On his journey to explore Da Nang, Jonathan also visited the Golden Bridge on the top of Ba Na Hills - a nearly 150m long bridge winding in the clouds, supported by giant hands covered in moss, creating a scene that is both majestic and magical.
Standing on the bridge, the male tourist can admire the panoramic view of the mountains and forests submerged in white clouds, creating a scene that makes him admire.
I have seen the Golden Bridge many times on social networks, but standing here I understand why this project is famous in the world. The actual landscape is much more beautiful than the image," the Australian tourist commented.
The final stop of the journey is tourist destinations in the South.
Jonathan said that the most memorable experience was visiting the Cu Chi tunnels. Under the guidance of a tour guide, he learned about the secret tunnel system, the life of Vietnamese soldiers and civilians in wartime, and directly experienced tunneling and shooting at the tourist area.
The narrow tunnels, just enough for one person to move, made the male tourist surprised by the creativity and steadfast will of the Vietnamese people.
After ending the journey at Cu Chi tunnels, Jonathan continued to explore the center of Ho Chi Minh City with destinations imbued with the city's imprint such as Nguyen Hue pedestrian street and Bui Vien street.
He spent time walking on Nguyen Hue pedestrian street, admiring the open space with fountains, green trees and the vibrant rhythm of life of the people. As night fell, the male tourist continued to immerse himself in the bustling atmosphere at Bui Vien pedestrian street, a place with a large concentration of domestic and foreign tourists.
After the trip, Jonathan said that Ho Chi Minh City brought a completely different color compared to previous destinations.
Closing the two-week cross-Vietnam journey, Jonathan said that the total cost for the entire trip was still below 1,000 USD, but what was received far exceeded initial expectations.
I had a wonderful experience. Your culture is very unique, the nature is majestic and the country has an admirable historical depth. When I return to Australia, I will definitely tell my family and friends about the wonderful things I have experienced in Vietnam," the tourist emotionally expressed.
Ha Giang Loop is a famous motorbike backpacking route in the North, starting and ending in Ha Giang. The 3- to 4-day journey takes you through dangerous passes, Tu San alleys, Nho Que river and Mong and Tay villages.
