2 Weeks in Vietnam: Our Family’s Authentic Journey Through Culture, Cuisine & Community
When planning our first big family trip to Vietnam, we knew we didn’t just want to check off tourist sites, we craved a deeper, more authentic experience. That’s why we chose the "Vietnam Like a Local" tour offered by BestPrice Travel, which was designed for families who love to explore safely but also seek real cultural immersion. This 14-day adventure was the perfect fit, even with our 7-year-old kid. From the start, we were impressed by BestPrice Travel’s professional communication and thoughtful itinerary that promised both comfort and authenticity for the whole tour.
Day 1 - 2: Ho Chi Minh City Tour
Our journey began with a seamless airport pickup that instantly eased any jetlag stress. Our first hotel, Saigon Majestic, was modern, comfortable, and ideally located in the city center for exploration.
Stepping into Ho Chi Minh City was like plunging into a vibrant sea of energy: colorful streets and tantalizing scents from food stalls. One of our favorite experiences was hopping on the back of a motorbike with our local guides and weaving through hidden alleys and bustling streets, which was a first for all of us and an absolute thrill!
During the city tour, we stopped at local markets, sampled cool street-side coffee, and even got a kid-friendly version of Vietnam’s fascinating history. Our guide was not just informative but incredibly warm, making it feel like we were at home.
If you’re considering a memorable journey, definitely join a family trip through BestPrice Travel.
Day 3 - 4: Mekong Delta - Tan Phong Islet
The next two days, we ventured into the serene world of the Mekong Delta. Drifting along narrow canals in a traditional wooden boat, we visited lush orchards, tried fresh tropical fruits, and listened to the soul-soothing melodies of the intriguing folk music called “don ca tai tu”. We also tried the activity - “ditch fishing hook” at the Mekong Ecolodge, and the children had so much fun.
Life slowed down beautifully here. Our older kids loved the fun and scenic cycling tours around the Tan Phong Island, where we passed fruit-laden trees and were welcomed by friendly locals. The peacefulness of this place was a refreshing contrast to city life, which made it so memorable for our family.
In the afternoon of day 4, we transfer by domestic flight to Da Nang and travel to our hotel in Hoi An. The whole process was smooth and stress-free - a testament to the tour’s excellent organization.
Day 5 - 6: Hoi An Ancient Town - Food Tour
Arriving in Hoi An was like stepping into a magical traditional painting, especially under the twinkling lights of its evening lanterns. And the Night Food Tour was a feast for our senses, including various dishes: savory banh mi, flavorful cao lau, and sweet soup desserts left our taste buds dancing. Our child, initially hesitant about new flavors, soon declared Vietnam's street food her "new favorite."
One highlight for the whole family was becoming farmers for a day in Cam Thanh Village, where we could try planting herbs, catching fish, and even riding a water buffalo! The genuine kindness of the local villagers and the idyllic countryside left a lasting impression on us.
Day 7 - 8 - 9: Thuy Bieu Eco Village & Hue’s Essence
On day 7, the road trip to Hue via the Hai Van Pass was pure magic. The panoramic views of mountains tumbling into the sea were breathtaking. This leg of the journey was a reminder that in Vietnam, even the road between destinations can become an unforgettable adventure.
In Hue, we embraced a slower rhythm. We spent blissful mornings cruising on the Huong River, passing by Thien Mu Pagoda, and stopping at the Hue Ecolodge. Here, we learning to cook local dishes, including wrapping fresh spring rolls, making traditional sweet potato cake. Our stay in Thuy Bieu Eco-Village was like being welcomed into a big extended family.
The ninth day is free and easy. We chose to navigate around the city, exploring century-old garden houses and discovering the majestic Hue Citadel, and our family felt deeply connected to the heart of Vietnam. After that, a playful afternoon at a local park rounded out our Hue experience perfectly.
Day 10 - 11: Hanoi Food Tour & City Tour
We checked in at Hanoi in the afternoon on day 10. Compared to Hue, Hanoi was a lively contrast, a blend of ancient history and modern buzz. In the evening, we joined a memorable food tour through the Old Quarter introduced us to Vietnam's tasty cuisine: steaming bowls of pho, savory bun cha, and fresh spring rolls to fill our stomachs. It was such a flavorful evening, we tried so many delicious dishes, all of which are easy to eat, suitable for all ages.
The next day, we rode pillion on a motorbike tour through Hanoi’s leafy boulevards, historic backstreets, and tourist attractions, which was an exhilarating way to explore the beauty of the city. And yes, even the kids loved it, they learn a lot about the long history of Vietnam! Unlike the South, Hanoi’s atmosphere felt more traditional, with a poetic soul we couldn’t get enough of.
Day 12 - 13: Luxury Cruise in Lan Ha Bay
The tour slowly came to an end as we had a 2-day cruise on the luxury Capella Cruise, which has many cabins for families. No words can quite capture the splendor of Lan Ha Bay, a less-traveled alternative to Halong Bay. Aboard this luxurious cruise, the amenities were all great, such as a waterslide, a mini golf course, a poker room, a pool, a spa, etc. Our family had so much fun, even staying on board.
The activities off board were also suitable for families, including kayaking through the hidden lagoons in Frog Pond, and traveling on a rowing boat to the mysterious Dark & Bright Cave. It was pure bliss. We really want to thank the staff for their friendly service during the meal, which made our whole dining experience unforgettable.
After the cruise, adults and kids alike were enchanted. After returning to Hanoi, we squeezed in some souvenir shopping and a relaxed final evening meal at a cozy local restaurant.
Day 14: End of the Journey - Goodbye, Vietnam
Parting ways with Vietnam was emotional, as we boarded our flight, we carried with us not just souvenirs, but countless heartfelt memories, from laughter-filled bike rides, memorable food tours, to soulful songs by the riverbanks and friendly interaction with welcoming locals.
If you're dreaming of your own unforgettable family adventure, don't hesitate to check the rate and availability for this tour!
Overall impression
Reflecting on our two weeks exploring Vietnam with BestPrice Travel, it’s easy to see why this tour became one of our most memorable family adventures ever. Every detail of the tour was carefully designed to balance cultural immersion, safety, and fun, creating experiences that all ages could enjoy together.
First and foremost, safety was never a concern. Whether navigating city streets on motorbikes or cruising down quiet waterways in the Mekong Delta, every activity was thoughtfully organized and child-friendly. The warmth and friendliness of the guides and local people made a huge difference; their passion for their culture was contagious, and they connected naturally with both adults and kids.
What truly set this journey apart was the richness of experiences, each day offered something new, yet the pace was always comfortable. One moment we were learning to farm in a local village, the next we were tasting street food in the bustling Hanoi Old Quarter, then cruising on a luxury cruise. There was always something authentic and meaningful waiting around the corner.
For families who seek more than just sightseeing and want real connections and memories to treasure, we wholeheartedly recommend this tour.
Ready to start your own unforgettable adventure? See more at bestpricetravel.com.
