Review from the Pasquier Family – 10-Day Journey through Northeast Vietnam (February 2025)

Participants: 2 adults + 2 children (ages 13 and 16)

Travel dates: February 10–20, 2025

Regions visited: Hanoi – Co Loa Citadel – Thai Nguyen – Ba Be – Ban Gioc – Ha Giang – Dong Van – Meo Vac

Overall impression: 10/10

Hanoi & Co Loa Citadel

Hanoi: We loved rediscovering the Vietnamese capital — always so vibrant and full of life. The Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake were perfect for immersing ourselves in the local atmosphere.

Co Loa Citadel: A great way to start — calm, untouristy, full of history, and surrounded by rice fields. The kids loved the legends about King An Duong Vuong and the magic turtle.

Highlight: Walking along the ancient ramparts

Note: No English-speaking guide on site – best to book a private guide

Thai Nguyen & Tea Plantations

Thai Nguyen: A fascinating stop at a tea plantation. We learned to pick tea leaves, and the kids joined a rolling and drying workshop. Tasting fresh green tea in nature was a delight!

Highlight: Warm hospitality of the tea-growing families

Note: Rustic visit, but very authentic

Ba Be Lake

Ba Be: One of the most beautiful moments of the trip. We stayed with a Tay family in a stilt house by the lake. Enjoyed a boat trip, explored Puong Cave, and walked through the forest.

Highlight: Waking up to the lake view — the kids loved swimming there

Note: Winding road access, but well maintained

Ban Gioc Waterfalls

Ban Gioc: Absolutely majestic! Straddling the border between Vietnam and China, the waterfalls were stunning even during the dry season. We took a bamboo raft ride at the foot of the falls and visited nearby Nguom Ngao Cave.

Ha Giang – Dong Van – Meo Vac

Ha Giang Loop: The highlight of the trip! Mountain roads were winding but breathtakingly scenic. Terraced fields, colorful ethnic groups, local markets, dizzying mountain passes… pure magic.

Dong Van & Meo Vac: We explored the old quarter of Dong Van, crossed the Ma Pi Leng Pass, and visited an ethnic market. Simple but charming accommodations.

Perfect for teenagers: This tour was an incredible educational adventure for our teens: meeting ethnic minority children, discovering rural life, and disconnecting from technology. They especially loved the stilt house experience and the spectacular scenery. 

“This journey through Northeast Vietnam reconnected us with nature and the simple things in life. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path Vietnam, far from the crowds, this tour is perfect. And our kids are still talking about it every day!”

The Pasquier Family, February 2025