If you're anything like us at Charlotte's Web Jewellery, you probably dream of travel, adventures, vibrant cultures, and finding beauty in unexpected places — just like the jewellery we create. I took a trip through Vietnam recently, and I thought I’d share and honest reflection and some of the highlights from my journey. So, if you're planning a trip to Vietnam, this one's for you!
First Stop: Da Nang – Dragon Bridges and Night Markets
I flew from Bangkok to Da Nang, a coastal city in central Vietnam. Honestly, it was a bit overcast and cooler than other parts of Vietnam — not what I expected! But I met some amazing people for dinner, and we shared a bunch of local Vietnamese dishes (my first proper taste of Vietnamese food in Vietnam — so good!).
After dinner, we wandered through Da Nang’s famous night market, packed with lights, stalls, and smells of delicious street food. I also got to see the Dragon Bridge, which is pretty iconic, and fun fact: on weekends, this giant dragon breathes fire! Definitely one for the bucket list.
Sadly, that night took a turn and food poisoning hit, and I spent most of the next day recovering. But I did manage a quick trip to the beach, even though it was super choppy and windy!
Onto Hoi An: Lanterns, Tailors, and Boutique Hotel
From Da Nang, I hopped in a Grab taxi to Hoi An, and what a contrast! This place stole my heart. Hoi An is an old trading port famous for its lantern festivals, tailor-made clothes, and Japanese Bridge (also known as Chùa Cầu or Pagoda Bridge), a stunning piece of history. It's essentially a historic footbridge with a temple on top connecting Japanese and Chinese quarters.
I stayed at Reu Boutique Hotel, nestled in peaceful paddy fields about 20 minutes from town. Genuinely one of the best places I’ve ever stayed. It was only six months old, beautifully designed, and incredible value for money. The staff were so kind, the food was delicious, and they even had an amazing massage service. Would honestly return to Hoi An just to stay there again!
The town itself was magical. I arrived just in time for a full moon lantern festival, so it was really busy! The streets were filled with lanterns, shops, cafés, and tailors offering beautiful custom-made clothes. And yes, I treated myself to a blow-dry at a local salon, it is such a fun and affordable experience.
One morning, I did a coconut boat tour, probably a little touristy for me but still fun (especially watching the guys spin the boats like crazy). Plus, I met a lovely family from Ladakh (one of India's most sparsely populated and coldest regions), which made the trip even more special.
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): Food Tours and Speakeasy's
Next up was Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon, as many locals still call it. I spent two nights here and packed a lot in!
On the first night, I joined a local street food tour, which is an absolute must-do if you're a foodie. Riding pillion on a motorbike with my guide, we zipped around the city, trying everything from banh mi to rice paper rolls. It was like stepping back into my backpacking days, loads of fun, and SO much good food.
The next day, I visited the War Remnants Museum, which is a heavy but important place. So much history from the Vietnam War, with tanks, helicopters, and powerful personal stories — definitely worth a visit.
In the evening, I explored some hidden speakeasy bars, sent postcards from Saigon's beautiful Central Post Office, and browsed the Ben Thanh Market, famous for everything from souvenirs to "designer" fakes. The shopping here is next level. Honestly, I could have stayed longer in Saigon, it's such a buzzing, exciting city.
Phu Quoc – Beaches, Starfish, and Time to Relax
To finish the trip, I flew to Phu Quoc Island off Vietnam’s southwest coast. If you're dreaming of beaches, this is the place! I stayed on Ong Lang Beach on the quieter west side, at Ancarine Resort, right on the beach with stunning views and total relaxation.
It was a bit cloudy (seems to have been the theme of my trip!), but still gorgeous. I hired a motorbike to explore, visiting Starfish Beach in the north. Unsurprisingly, it's called Starfish beach as there are real starfish all over the shallow waters! Down in Duong Dong town, I had the best lobster dinner overlooking the sea.
Phu Quoc had a mix of couples, families, and solo travellers like me. It was chilled but not too quiet. A perfect spot to wind down before heading back to Bangkok for the trade fair.
Final Thoughts
Vietnam was a mix of ancient charm, buzzing cities, beaches, and incredible food. The people were some of the friendliest I’ve ever met, warm, welcoming, and always ready to help. As someone who’s all about the beauty of handmade things, I couldn't help but fall in love with all the local crafts, especially in Hoi An.
If you’re planning a trip, I’d say Hoi An and Phu Quoc were my personal highlights, but every stop had something unique.
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