June 2025
After three back-to-back flights totaling over 20 hours (EWR ? SFO ? TPA ? SGN), we finally landed in Saigon, Vietnam on June 2nd. Exhausted, jet-lagged, and immediately hit by the thick, humid air, I stumbled into a cab, already mesmerized by the chaos outside—a symphony of motorbike horns, humidity, and human energy. Saigon doesn’t just welcome you. It grabs you.
Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City): Where the Journey Begins
That first night, after a much-needed nap, I wandered out to the nightlifie captial of Saigon. Pho Bu Vient Street. The city pulsed with life—street food stalls, neon signs, and the continuous stream of scooters.
Day 2 was a deep dive into Vietnam’s war-torn history and natural charm. I took a full-day excursion to the Cu Chi Tunnels—claustrophobic, gritty, and deeply humbling. Later, drifting peacefully down the Mekong River’s canals on a small paddle boat felt like stepping into a postcard.
On Day 3, I got to experience the city more intimately—visiting Christine’s great aunt, sampling street food, checking out the Independence Palace, and catching views from the Bitexco Financial Tower.
Da Nang and Hoi An : Beaches, Bridges & Buddha
Day 5 started with an early morning flight to Da Nang, where we met up briefly with Sid and his family. Da Nang felt like a coastal exhale after the frenetic pulse of Saigon—laid-back but equally scorching hot.
We took a quick afternoon trip to Hoi An , old quarter to walk along the narrow streets and custom made clothing shops , before a twight light boat ride and watching the laterns in the evening.
Over the next few days, we jogged along the beachfront in the early morning haze, strolled under the fire-breathing Dragon Bridge, and hiked up to the awe-inspiring Lady Buddha. Sun, sand, and some soul.
Hanoi & Ha Long Bay: History, Hospitality, and Halong Nights
another short hop flight to Hanoi brought us into the heart of the Old Quarter. The city was lively in its own historic, elegant way. Sid’s family and I explored Train Street, wandered through alleys bursting with energy, and dined like kings.
Then came the crown jewel: a Ha Long Bay overnight cruise. The cabin was spacious, the views surreal. We didn’t have time for every activity, but we did squeeze in kayaking, swimming, and even a visit to a hidden NVA field hospital cave. It felt like a surreal blend of serenity and silent memory.
Tokyo: Modern Marvels and Ancient Temples
After a delayed red-eye flight from Hanoi to Tokyo, we jumped right into sightseeing. First stop: Shibuya Crossing—the iconic scramble that lived up to its cinematic fame. We snapped selfies with Hachik?, explored a Hokusai exhibit, and navigated the buzzing energy of the city, from ramen shops to shopping alleys.
A highlight was the peaceful walk through Asakusa’s Senso-ji Temple, a moment of calm in the neon blur.
Kyoto: Where Time Slows Down
A ride on the Shinkansen took us to rainy Kyoto, where time seemed to drip slower with each step. That evening we wandered the enchanting alleyways near Teramachi Market, grabbed bowls of ramen, and soaked in the timeless atmosphere.
Our final day in Japan was a nature-laced farewell: climbing through the Fushimi Inari Torii gates, wandering the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, and a stop at the oddly named but serene “Monkey Mountain.”
Homebound
With memories swirling, we boarded a 12-hour direct flight from Narita back to Newark (EWR). The trip felt both like a blink and a lifetime. Vietnam and Japan offered a tapestry of contrasts—chaotic cities and calm temples, war history and futuristic skylines, bustling street vendors and serene nature.
Already planning our return.