There’s nothing quite like seeing a place for yourself. I recently travelled through Vietnam after a beautiful cruise with Crystal — and it was a trip full of contrasts. The journey had a bit of everything — a luxury cruise, buzzing cities, peaceful countryside, and incredible food all the way through.

This trip wasn’t just about ticking off the sights — it was about taking it all in, trying new things, and getting to know Vietnam in a way that really stayed with me.

Journey Highlights

The trip began with a touch of luxury — a five-night sailing from Malaysia to Singapore aboard the Crystal Symphony. From there, I flew into Hanoi and explored northern and central Vietnam, travelling from the bustling streets of the capital to the peaceful rice terraces of Sapa and the lantern-lit charm of Hoi An.

A Luxury Start with Crystal Cruises

Before arriving in Vietnam, I was fortunate to join a five-night educational hosted by Crystal Cruises aboard the newly refurbished Crystal Symphony. It gave me a real feel for what luxury at sea can be — relaxed, beautifully curated, and full of those little touches that elevate the whole journey.

Sailing from Malaysia to Singapore, the journey was a masterclass in refined cruising.

• The suites were spacious and elegant

• Service was seamless and genuinely warm

• Dining felt like a special occasion every night — high tea in the Palm Court was a personal highlight

It was a great opportunity to experience the Crystal difference first-hand — understated luxury, beautifully designed spaces, and an atmosphere where everything just felt effortless. If you’re considering a luxury cruise in Asia, this kind of experience really shows how travel can be both refined and deeply relaxing.

Our Trusted Partners

Crystal Cruises
My hosted sailing with Crystal was the perfect way to begin this journey. The ship had just been refurbished, and the onboard experience was exceptional — elegant dining, polished service, and every detail thoughtfully taken care of.

Luxury Halong Bay Cruise
Our time in Lan Ha Bay was spent aboard a small, boutique-style vessel — beautifully designed, with excellent onboard service and peaceful surroundings. A fantastic way to explore the bay in comfort and style.

On-the-Ground Support
Throughout Vietnam, a trusted local operator handled all the logistics — from transfers to private guided experiences. Their attention to detail and local knowledge made every moment feel effortless, enriching the journey without the usual travel stress.

Local Insights

• Ninh Binh was a big surprise. They call it “Halong Bay on land” and it’s easy to see why — limestone cliffs and quiet river rides by rowboat.

• Sapa: Visiting Sapa’s hill tribe villages with a knowledgeable local guide made all the difference — a thoughtful, respectful experience that offered a deeper connection to the place, without compromising on comfort.

• Hoi An had the best energy. A great mix of culture, markets, food, and history — and at night, it really comes alive.

Reflections

This trip reminded me just how diverse and exciting Vietnam is — from cruising in style to sharing street food in a back alley, and wandering through misty rice terraces.

Ready to Experience Vietnam Like a Local – with a Bit of Luxury?

I’ve walked the alleyways, cruised the bays, and tasted the flavours of Vietnam firsthand — and I’d love to help bring it to life for you.

If Vietnam’s on your radar, I can help you experience it the way I did: with incredible food, memorable stays, and that perfect balance of local connection and premium comfort.

Let’s plan a trip that suits your style.