Uncovering the Unknown- Aditya’s One-of-a-Kind Experience In Vietnam
The sheer excitement of witnessing something new can be extraordinary. Places that broaden the perception of travelling, and sites that vocalise the unsung tales of the past, can change the way you think and live.
Asia stands as a treasure trove of cultural and historical diversity. Affordable and beautiful, filled with historical tales and heritage, this destination is no less than an explorer's paradise. Just imagine the cherry blossoms of Japan, the unparalleled beauty of Tibet, or the vibrant beaches of Thailand. These places offer an experience so unique, that you can feel the wanderlust jumping through your nerves.
Aditya and his wife, software engineers from Mumbai, wanted to do something non-cliched and off-beat for their anniversary this year. So, they chose to set out on an off-beat trip to Vietnam with Thrillophilia. They had travelled with us before, exploring the enchanting land of Egypt. But this time, they wanted a slightly different itinerary. Apart from covering the main highlights of the country, they wanted to engage in some local experiences.
And the first inclusion we suggested to them, was to indulge in a sweet snorkelling session in Phu Quoc. Building up, we curated a list of the best places to visit and the top things to do in Vietnam, in some unconventional destinations.
The roads not taken
With a little delay in settling in the hotel due to some misunderstanding, they started their anniversary trip in Vietnam. They were regular travellers which was reflected in their response to our on-ground team. We knew their whole focus was to get to know the place, to form a deeper understanding of this destination, its culture, and its people. And the best way to do that was to interact.
While the tourist places remained crowded and mainstream, they did not hesitate to visit them. However, they were more keen on spending more time at the offbeat destinations that we had chosen for them. For example, they visited Ba Na Hill, the Golden Hand, the Da Nang Beach, the Cu Chi Tunnel and the Mekong Delta. They stood in admiration of the paddy fields, the beaches, and the marvellous architecture of the Golden Hand and were intrigued after learning the significance of the Cu Chi tunnels.
But on the other hand, they seemed to be more peaceful and curious while touring Con Dao Beach and trying out the water sports at Phu Quoc. They tried boating in the Ba Be National Park and witnessed the largest natural lake in Vietnam. They also explored the Cam Ha village, trying to speak to the Tay minority community residing there.
In between the lines
It was clear that they were on a quest, they were trying to find something out. Or, perhaps it was their response to experiencing something so new and unique, that they could not understand how to deal with it. Whatever the reason was, they were using this opportunity to gain important insights about this destination.
Vietnam was unlike any other place they had been to. Its nightlife was much brighter and more vibrant than that of the poshest clubs of the Netherlands, its natural beauty was nothing close to anything they had seen before, and its culture…
Being Indians themselves, they could feel the pain of the process of decolonisation. Having experienced a haunting history after a glorious past, Vietnam’s land whispered many tales. While some reminded curfews, some reminded Royalty.
Yes, each and every architectural marvel of this destination was something extraordinary to gaze at. From the ancient pagodas to the majestic gates and buildings, Vietnam showcases a mesmerising range of heritage spots that warm the heart.
Of romance and romanticism
Also, the breathtaking beauty of the coasts and the hills provided a perfect combination for a romantic holiday.
Who says anniversaries are boring? When you have a chance to explore a destination with your partner, it doubles the ratio of fun and bonding between the couple. So, love was in the air for sure, and so was a sense of thrill and excitement.
Once Aditya asked his wife, “How would you describe getting to know a completely different side of the world”.
To this, she replied, “It is a feeling, just like the first time you get to know a person, like the first time you feel responsible towards that person. Same. I feel responsible for appreciating Vietnam, it had been neglected for way too long.”
Vietnam is home to abundant natural and historical treasures that cannot be weighed for value or significance. Their real weight is for shaping the reality, for making Vietnam such a beautiful place as it is, and for vouching for a much better future…
We at Thrillophilia, are on the same quest- places that deserve to be in the spotlight, should never be in the shadow of assumptions. So, here is to breaking notions and prejudices, here is to the power of Vietnam!
Read More: Thrillophilia Vietnam Reviews