A Classic Vietnam Review by the James Family
For Jacob James, this Vietnam holiday was more than a regular vacation. It was a chance to slow down, spend time with his wife Beena and give their daughter Joanna the meaningful family trip she had been hoping for. Life had been busy for everyone, but the idea of travelling together felt like the perfect pause they all needed.
When Joanna shared the plan one evening, Beena smiled and said, “I have heard Vietnam is beautiful. I hope my knees listen to me.”
Jacob laughed softly and replied, “Then I will walk at your pace.”
With that simple reassurance, the family agreed.
They booked their eight day Vietnam tour package through Thrillophilia, and the assistance from the team made everything easier. The flights, transfers and experiences were chosen with comfort in mind, especially because Jacob and Beena preferred slower travel. The clear plan gave all three of them confidence.
Discovering Hanoi With Curiosity
Their journey began in Hanoi on 7 October 2025. A private sedan picked them up from the airport, making it easy for Jacob and Beena to settle after the long flight. After early check-in at their hotel, they rested for a while before stepping out for the Hanoi Half Day City Tour.
The first stop was Tran Quoc Pagoda. The peaceful setting beside West Lake immediately brought calm to the family. Beena looked at the water and said, “This feels like the right place to begin.”
Next, they visited the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university. Joanna enjoyed listening to the stories behind the centuries-old courtyard, while her parents absorbed the slow pace of the place.
Later, they walked through Hoa Lo Prison, a museum that showed Vietnam’s history with honesty and quiet emotion. By the time they returned to their hotel, the three of them already felt connected with the city.
The next day’s full day trip to Ninh Binh, including Hoa Lu and Tam Coc, became an experience they cherished. The long boat ride through the calm river and the sight of mountains rising around them made Beena whisper, “Nature does not need to try hard to impress us.” Joanna clicked photos while Jacob simply enjoyed the peaceful rhythm of the water.
The Stillness of Halong Bay
On 9 October, the family checked out and travelled to Halong Bay for their overnight cruise. This part of the trip turned out to be the most magical for them.
As the cruise moved through the calm sea, the limestone cliffs appeared one after another like a long line of guardians standing in silence. Jacob stood beside the railing, taking in every detail. He said quietly, “I have only seen this in newspapers. Seeing it like this feels unreal.”
Beena enjoyed sitting on the upper deck while Joanna explored the activities on board. The family shared a slow dinner with soft music in the background. Afterward, they sat together watching the water shimmer under the lights. It was simple, yet unforgettable.
They woke up early the next morning for the cruise’s sunrise session. The sky slowly changed colour over the cliffs. Joanna looked at her parents and said, “We will always remember this morning.” They all agreed.
A Warm Welcome in Da Nang
After disembarking, the family returned to Hanoi and flew to Da Nang the same evening, as planned. The next day was marked as a leisure day, giving Jacob and Beena time to relax at the hotel. They took a quiet walk near the beach while Joanna explored nearby cafes.
On 12 October, they went for the Ba Na Hills tour, including a tour of the Golden Bridge . The cable car ride impressed the whole family. Beena held Jacob’s arm tightly and said, “Look at how high we are.”
Joanna laughed, “You are safe, Amma. Just enjoy the view.”
Standing on the Golden Bridge felt surreal. The giant stone hands holding the walkway created a picture they had seen many times online, but being there in person brought a different emotion. Jacob walked slowly, taking everything in at his own pace. The gardens, the fresh air and the scenic beauty made the day feel full.
A Quiet Evening in Hoi An
Their next stop was the Hoi An Walking Tour on 13 October. The narrow lanes, lanterns, small shops and peaceful river gave the family a chance to experience Vietnamese culture at its simplest. Beena bought a small handmade souvenir and said, “Something to remember this place by.”
Joanna enjoyed watching her parents rediscover travel in a gentle, relaxed way. The family ended the evening with a warm meal and a slow walk through lantern lit streets.
A Farewell Filled With Gratitude
On the final day, 14 October 2025, the family prepared to leave. They talked about the places they had seen, the people they had met and the simple moments they had shared. Jacob felt grateful that his wife and daughter had travelled comfortably. Beena felt thankful that her knees had held up. Joanna felt happy that they had made memories she would treasure.
As they rode to the airport, Beena said, “This trip was good for the soul.”
Jacob nodded and added, “And we did it together.”
Joanna smiled, knowing those simple words captured everything the journey meant.
A Journey They Will Always Remember
The James family returned home with hearts full of warmth. The arrangements made by Thrillophilia had been smooth, the guides patient, and the itinerary perfectly balanced. For them, Vietnam became way more than just a destination- it was a place that gave them quiet joy, family time and memories that would stay close long after the trip ended.