My Top 10 Favourite Stays Around the World

Over the past ten years of travel, I’ve stayed in everything from noisy hostels and funky Airbnbs to boutique hideaways and five-star resorts. I’ve always been more of a budget-conscious, best-deal kind of girl, and for many years that meant simple stays with just the basics. But through this blog, I’ve been lucky enough to experience some truly incredible hotels - each one unique, memorable, and a little taste of luxury that I’ve come to really appreciate. Honestly, who doesn’t love a plush bed, a dreamy view, and amazing service?

Best Places to eat in Hoi An, Vietnam

Following on from my Top Things to do in Hoi An post, here is the promised best places to eat. This is my third post of my where to eat in Vietnam series, the first two being in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Best Things to do in Hoi An, Vietnam

Hoi An is one of the most charming towns I’ve ever visited. Located along Vietnam’s central coast, this beautifully preserved Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its winding canals, vibrant markets and rich cultural history.

I was lucky enough to spend a week there, and completely fell in love with its old-world beauty. The highlight was being there during the Lunar Lantern Festival - when the electricity is turned off in the Old Town, traffic disappears, and the streets come alive with glowing lanterns, floating candles, music, and celebration. It’s absolutely magical - like stepping into another time.

Vedana Lagoon: Vietnam's Incredible Overwater Bungalows

After two fantastic nights at Pilgrimage Village, I was next off to their sister resort in nearby Phu Loc which lies between Hue and Hoi An.
I spent four incredible nights at Vedana Lagoon Resort and Spa which was - I kid you not, the resort of my dreams.

A Taste of Rural Vietnam at Pilgrimage Village, Hue

I was so excited to return back to Vietnam, six months away was too long! This time I had the pleasure of exploring central Vietnam, beginning in Hue – the former seat of the Nguyen Dynasty emperors and the national capital from 1802–1945.

Best Places To Eat: Hanoi, Vietnam

If I had to choose one cuisine to eat for the rest of my life, it would hands down be Vietnamese. It’s my absolute favourite - so fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavour. I’ve just returned from an incredible trip to Hanoi, and I’m still dreaming about the street food, and soul-warming bowls of pho. Here are my top picks and must-try eats from my latest Vietnamese food adventure.

Best Places To Eat: Ho Chi Minh City

I spent a wonderful two weeks in Vietnam in December, and as always I learned as much as I could and very much enjoyed the delights of the local cuisine. Vietnamese pride their food on being fresh, healthy and bursting with flavour.
I am in no way an expert just from my short stay there, but I have some great recommendations for gems that I did find.

Halong Bay | Bhaya Cruise Review

Halong Bay had been on my travel wish list for as long as I can remember - so when we chose it as a stop on our honeymoon, my expectations were sky-high. And you know what? It not only lived up to them - it exceeded every single one.

It was, without a doubt, one of the most incredible places I’ve ever been. The entire UNESCO World Heritage Site felt ancient, majestic and impossibly beautiful. I couldn’t take my eyes off the towering limestone islands rising out of the water, each one topped with lush green rainforest. Cruising through the still, emerald waters was completely surreal - so peaceful and calming, and exactly what we needed after the wedding buzz.

Hanoi Travel Diary & Vietnam Reflection

Hanoi, a little summary

Hanoi was a different experience to Ho Chi Minh City. Whether I liked it more or not - I couldn't quite tell, nor put my finger on exactly how the two differed so much. I think because we were staying in the very centre of town in Hanoi the people were just so condensed into such a small space.

I enjoyed that experience to a degree - witnessing the busy hectic lifestyle, the street markets where people are literally sitting on the sidewalk chopping fish and meat. It was fascinating and I enjoy learning about and seeing such different cultures and lifestyles.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Travel Diary

I recently returned from an incredible two weeks in Vietnam and this is the first of my travel diaries. Here is my second one from Hanoi which includes thoughts and reflections from my time in Vietnam, and Halong Bay will be coming very soon.