Enrich your soul: Never too late

We are living in a fast-paced, achievement-driven world. It is easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle, forgetting to take care of ourselves and our souls.

But guess what? It's never too late to make a change. We can choose to ditch the boring routine and set off on an adventure tour to find ourselves again. It's time to make our souls happy and feel the joy of living a life that matters!

Find back the hidden adventurer, the curious art enthusiast, or the history buff that you have buried within you in a Vietnam-customized tour!

1. Experiencing wartime at Hoa Lo Prison

Coming to Hoa Lo Prison (also known as Maison Centrale), you will have an opportunity to gain a greater insight into the life of Vietnamese revolutionaries during the First Indochina War.

The Hoa Lo Prison used to be a big jail, but now it's a museum with only part of the building left. Prisoners during a war called it the "Hanoi Hilton", even though it wasn't a hotel :) Most exhibits relate to the prison’s use up to the mid-1950s. There's even a gruesome guillotine that the French used to behead Vietnamese revolutionaries.

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This infamous prison housed American prisoners of war, including the famous Senator John McCain.

Visiting Hoa Lo Prison is like stepping back in time. You'll see the tough conditions prisoners faced during wars, but also how strong people can be. The prison's exhibits offer a glimpse into the lives of the prisoners, their struggles, and their hopes.

2. Engaging in pottery workshops at Bat Trang Pottery Village

Bat Trang Pottery Village is located on the bank of the Red River, in Gia Lam District, Hanoi. This village has been a center for pottery making for centuries, and its tradition continues to thrive today.

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Nourish your mind and get your hands dirty by joining a pottery workshop. The atmosphere is filled with the earthy scent of clay and the rhythmic hum of the potter's wheel. You can learn the basics of throwing clay on the wheel and creating your own unique piece. It probably will be a surprisingly therapeutic experience, feeling the soft clay yield to your touch. Don't worry if it doesn't look perfect – imperfections often add character to handmade pieces.

This workshop is a fun experience for all ages, allowing you to connect with your creativity and take home a special souvenir of your trip. However, it may take a few days for your piece to be glazed and fired in a kiln! So be patient ^^

3. Exploring the art collection at Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum

Hanoi boasts a treasure trove of art, and the Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum is a must-see for any art lover.

This impressive museum houses a vast collection of Vietnamese art, spanning centuries and showcasing various artistic styles. From ancient Champa stone carvings to statues of Quan Am, a Buddhist goddess of compassion with thousands of arms and eyes.

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Look out for the lacquered statues of Buddhist monks and the collection of modern art and folk-naive paintings.

While most exhibits have English descriptions, a guided tour (which costs 150,000 dong) can be helpful – just avoid going between 11:30 am and 1:30 pm as that's when they take a break.

4. Immersing in art at Craig Thomas Gallery

For those interested in contemporary Vietnamese art, the Craig Thomas Gallery in Ho Chi Minh City is a hidden gem.

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Founded by an Australian art collector, this gallery showcases the works of emerging and established Vietnamese artists. The gallery space offers a vibrant platform for contemporary Vietnamese voices, showcasing a diverse range of styles and mediums. From thought-provoking paintings to innovative sculptures, the Craig Thomas Gallery provides a glimpse into the dynamic world of contemporary Vietnamese art.

5. Trekking to Hang En Cave

Now, buckle up for an adventure unlike any other! We'll embark on a thrilling journey to Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park, home to some of the largest caves in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts a spectacular landscape of towering limestone mountains, dense rainforests, and hidden underground wonders.

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Our main highlight will be trekking to the breathtaking Hang En Cave. This massive cave complex is known for its towering chambers, glistening stalactites and stalagmites, and a hidden underground river. Exploring Hang En Cave is an awe-inspiring experience that will leave you speechless.

So, what are you waiting for? It's never too late to embark on an adventure that will transform you. Pack your bags and join us on an unforgettable journey to discover the magic of Vietnam!