After years of campervanning holidays around Europe, Jo decided to take her three teenagers on holiday to Vietnam. The Rickshaw Travel team helped her create a personalised itinerary of unique ‘bite-sized’ trips. Here’s what she got up to …

Flavours of Hanoi & Bai Tu Long Bay – 3 nights

Stepping off the plane and into the heat, humidity and bustle of Hanoi was a big culture shock for our family. We soon got into the swing of things as we explored the Old Quarter and watched artisans at work. In Bai Tu Long Bay we stayed on a traditional junk boat sailing the emerald seas between jungle-topped islands and sandy coves.

 

Lending a hand in Hue – 2 nights

After a short flight, we found ourselves on the banks of the Perfume River cycling through the peaceful countryside of rice paddies and water buffalo. We all had a go at catching fish with traditional river nets and loved the cooking masterclass making Bánh xèo which means “sizzling pancake”.

 

A break by the beach in Hoi An – 3 nights

Next was a luxurious resort on the beach; the perfect place for some downtime. By night we sat amongst the hustle of riverside bars, street food vendors and strings of colourful lanterns. By day, we cycled into the countryside, stopping at local temples and thriving markets.

 

Scooting through Saigon – 2 nights

If you ask my kids about their highlight, I can guarantee it was the Vespa tour. My fears about sticking them on the back of a moped in the rush-hour traffic proved completely unfounded. The drivers were incredibly skilled and calm taking us to places we’d never have found ourselves, from hole-in-the-wall restaurants to live music venues.

 

 

A taste of life on the Mekong – 3 nights

Next it was time for a slower pace of life in the Mekong Delta. We sailed by boat down the river, stopping to sip rice wine and watching locals make popping rice and coconut candy. We travelled down a beautiful waterway to our host family on the island of An Binh. Our rooms, though simple, were perfectly cosy and we gained a valuable insight into life on the Mekong.

 

All good things must come to an end

Our trip was the perfect balance of planned activities and the freedom to explore independently. The whole experience has given the family a new sense of confidence for travelling. Our next stop… Peru!

 

 

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Exclusive offer for SN members: Book your family holiday and Rickshaw Travel will include a FREE activity worth up to £200 within your itinerary, for you and your family to enjoy! From cooking classes and surfing lessons to jungle kayaking and wildlife cruises. Choose from our hassle-free family holidays across a range of exciting destinations, including Borneo, Vietnam, Cambodia, Costa Rica, Indonesia & Sri Lanka. Ts & Cs apply.

 

Rickshaw Travel offer family-friendly holidays across Asia and North & Latin America. For more information call 01273 322399 and quote “School Notices” or visit rickshawtravel.co.uk/family-holidays