Fearless Feasting: A Picky Eater’s Journey Through Vietnam’s Four Must-Visit Cities

Posted On April 10, 2023

Welcome to Fearless Feasting, a 14-day culinary adventure designed for the picky eater who wants to explore the best of Vietnam. Join us as we take you through a carefully curated itinerary across four amazing cities, showcasing unique regional dishes and exciting activities that cater to the cautious foodie. Embrace the adventure, and discover the rich flavors and culture of Vietnam, one delectable bite at a time.

Day 1-4: Hanoi

Arrive in Hanoi and settle into your accommodations. The capital city is bustling with history and culture, as well as some fantastic culinary delights.

Getting to Hanoi

The main gateway to Hanoi is Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), located about 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) north of the city center. There are numerous international and domestic flights connecting Hanoi with major cities around the world. Upon arrival, clear customs, and take a taxi, shuttle bus, or private transfer to reach your accommodations in the Old Quarter.

Where to stay in the Old Quarter

The Old Quarter is a popular area for tourists, offering a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are a few recommendations:

1. Hanoi La Siesta Hotel & Spa: A charming boutique hotel with stylish rooms, excellent service, and a convenient location in the heart of the Old Quarter.
2. Little Hanoi Deluxe Hotel: A budget-friendly option offering clean, comfortable rooms, and a helpful staff.
3. The Oriental Jade Hotel: A luxury hotel with elegant rooms, a rooftop swimming pool, and stunning views of the city.

Activities

1. Explore the Old Quarter and visit the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake: The historic heart of Hanoi, the Old Quarter, is a maze of narrow streets and alleys teeming with life. Here, you’ll find traditional shops, bustling markets, and street food vendors offering a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Make sure to visit Hoan Kiem Lake, a tranquil oasis in the city center. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and features the picturesque Turtle Tower in its center. On weekends, the streets around the lake are pedestrianized, creating a lively atmosphere with street performances and local families enjoying leisurely strolls.
2. Discover the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university: The Temple of Literature is a beautiful example of traditional Vietnamese architecture and is dedicated to Confucius. Established in 1070, the temple served as the country’s first university, where students studied Confucian literature and prepared for their imperial examinations. Today, the well-preserved complex is a peaceful sanctuary, featuring lush gardens, intricate carvings, and serene courtyards, making it a must-visit site for history buffs.
3. Take a stroll around the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex: This important historical site is dedicated to Vietnam’s founding father, Ho Chi Minh. The complex includes the imposing Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where you can pay your respects to the late leader. Also on the grounds are the Presidential Palace, the unique One Pillar Pagoda, and the Ho Chi Minh Museum, which offers fascinating insights into the life and legacy of the revolutionary leader.

Food Highlights

1. Pho: Vietnam’s national dish is a delicious noodle soup consisting of a flavorful broth, rice noodles, and your choice of protein, such as beef, chicken, or tofu. Garnish your bowl with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and a squeeze of lime to create a comforting and satisfying meal. The dish’s versatility makes it perfect for picky eaters, as you can customize your bowl to suit your preferences.
2. Bun Cha: This Hanoi specialty features grilled pork served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a tangy dipping sauce. The dish is typically enjoyed by dipping the noodles and pork into the sauce, allowing you to adjust the flavor profile to your liking. With its tender meat, light noodles, and zesty sauce, Bun Cha is an excellent introduction to Vietnamese cuisine for cautious foodies.
3. Egg Coffee: A unique Hanoi beverage, egg coffee combines strong Vietnamese coffee with a sweet, creamy foam made from whipped egg yolks, sugar, and condensed milk. The result is a rich and indulgent drink that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while providing a much-needed caffeine boost. Even the pickiest of eaters should give this local favorite a try, as it offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that’s hard to resist.

Day 5-7: Halong Bay

Take a scenic drive to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its emerald waters and limestone islands.

Activities

1. Embark on an overnight cruise to explore the bay’s hidden gems: Board a traditional wooden junk boat and set sail to discover the breathtaking scenery of Halong Bay. You’ll visit hidden caves, floating fishing villages, and tranquil lagoons while enjoying the comfort of your luxurious cabin and delicious meals on board.
2. Kayak through serene lagoons and visit hidden caves: Paddle through turquoise waters and navigate between the towering limestone karsts. Explore hidden caves and coves, getting up close and personal with the bay’s stunning geological features.
3. Relax on the white-sand beaches of Ti Top Island: Take a break on the pristine beaches of Ti Top Island, where you can swim, sunbathe, or hike up to the island’s viewpoint for panoramic vistas of the bay.

Food Highlights

1. Fresh Seafood: Indulge in the bay’s abundant seafood, freshly caught and simply prepared to let the natural flavors shine. From grilled fish to steamed clams, there’s something for every seafood lover to enjoy.
2. Banh Mi: Vietnamese sandwiches with customizable fillings, perfect for picky eaters. Choose from a variety of proteins, fresh vegetables, and sauces to create a sandwich that suits your tastes.
3. Spring Rolls: Savor the classic Vietnamese appetizer, with options for vegetarian and meat fillings. These light and crispy rolls can be enjoyed with a variety of dipping sauces, allowing you to experiment with different flavor combinations.

Day 8-10: Hoi An

Fly to Danang and transfer to the enchanting ancient town of Hoi An.

Activities

1. Stroll through the lantern-lit streets and visit the Japanese Covered Bridge: Wander the atmospheric streets of Hoi An’s well-preserved Old Town, where you’ll find charming architecture, colorful lanterns, and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge.
2. Take a bicycle tour to the nearby rice fields and villages: Hop on a bike and venture beyond the town to explore the picturesque countryside, passing through rice fields, local villages, and lush green landscapes.
3. Participate in a cooking class to learn how to create your own Vietnamese dishes: Join a local chef for a hands-on cooking class, where you’ll learn to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes using fresh, local ingredients. Customize your menu to suit your tastes, and enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal.

Food Highlights

1. Cao Lau: A Hoi An specialty, this noodle dish features savory pork, fresh herbs, and a rich, flavorful broth. The unique noodles, made with local well water, give the dish its signature texture.
2. White Rose Dumplings: Delicate shrimp-filled dumplings, perfect for cautious foodies. These translucent, flower-shaped morsels are a Hoi An classic, and their subtle flavor makes them a favorite among travelers.
3. Banh Xeo: Sizzling rice pancakes filled with customizable ingredients, such as shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and fresh herbs. These crispy, savory pancakes can be tailored to your preferences and are perfect for sharing.

Day 11-14: Ho Chi Minh City

End your journey in the vibrant metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City.

Activities

1. Visit the War Remnants Museum and Reunification Palace for a glimpse into Vietnam’s history: Delve into the country’s turbulent past at these informative sites, which offer powerful exhibits and fascinating insights into Vietnam’s war-torn history.
2. Explore the lively Ben Thanh Market: Wander the bustling aisles of this central market, where you’ll find everything from fresh produce to souvenirs, clothing, and local handicrafts. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample some of the street food on offer, as well as practicing your bargaining skills with the friendly vendors.
3. Venture to the nearby Cu Chi Tunnels to learn about the ingenuity of the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War: Embark on a half-day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an extensive underground network used by the Viet Cong during the war. Crawl through the narrow passageways and learn about the incredible resourcefulness and resilience of the Vietnamese people.

Food Highlights

1. Com Tam: Broken rice served with various toppings, allowing you to choose what suits your taste buds. Options include grilled pork, fried egg, shredded pork skin, pickles, and a variety of dipping sauces. Customize your plate to create a satisfying meal tailored to your preferences.
2. Banh Cuon: Steamed rice rolls filled with ground pork and mushrooms – a light, satisfying dish. These delicate rolls are served with a flavorful dipping sauce and can be enjoyed with a side of fresh herbs and bean sprouts.
3. Vietnamese Iced Coffee: A sweet, strong, and refreshing drink to cool you down after a day of exploration. Made with robust Vietnamese coffee and sweetened condensed milk, this iced beverage is the perfect pick-me-up on a hot day.

Our 14-day itinerary through Vietnam’s four must-visit cities offers a perfect balance of adventure and culinary exploration, catered to the picky eater. With a wide array of customizable dishes and activities, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful country. So pack your bags, and embark on a Fearless Feasting adventure through Vietnam. Discover its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and mouth-watering cuisine, creating unforgettable memories along the way.

FAQ