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Our adventure began on Vietnam's Independence Day as we arrived in Hanoi. We did not know it at the time but it was looking very busy so it was an excellent coincidence that the tour we had booked had us venturing off the beaten path and exploring the countryside, embarking on the Ba Vi Eco Tour. The decision to escape Hanoi's chaos and experience the Ba Vi Eco Tour was truly a reprieve from an all-day travel just the day before.
If you are into culture and history then this tour is definitely for you. We had booked our tour from Tour Rodar. We wanted an itinerary that would take care of all of the tours, transfers, and accommodations and Tour Radar had arranged it for us.
The tour operator kept in touch with us the entire time asking us about our dietary restrictions (which we did have some restrictions) and mobility restrictions as this is an adventure trip after all (my mom is still active but she can have some slow down) and our experience is just excellent and I highly recommend booking with Tour Radar
The Rich History of Ba Vi District
The history of Ba Vi District dates back centuries, and it is steeped in fascinating tales and legends. Ba Vi District has been a cultural crossroads from ancient times to the present day, influenced by various dynasties and colonial powers.
Wandering through the district, you'll come across remnants of the past that tell stories of a bygone era. Ancient temples and pagodas stand as testaments to the spiritual beliefs and practices of the people who once inhabited this land. Intricate carvings and ornate decorations adorn these architectural wonders, showcasing the craftsmanship and artistic prowess of the artisans who built them.
Harvesting tea leaves on a traditional 30-year-old Tea Plantation
We started our day early where we were picked up by Trung our tour guide for the day. He was well versed with Hanoi and Vietnam's history so anything that my mom asked he was able to answer to my mom's satisfaction, although she does not look like it in this intense photo
We start at Moc Village which is a small village located in the Ba Vi District of Hanoi, Vietnam. It is about 68 kilometers from the city center and takes about 1.5 hours to get there by car. Moc Village is known for its traditional Vietnamese culture and its beautiful scenery. I arrived at Moc Village around 9:30 AM.
We started our day with a visit to a local tea plantation. The tea plantation is owned and operated by a family who has been growing tea for generations. At the plantation, we met Mr. Duoc, a man who works and owns the tea plantation and also happens to be one of the soldiers during the Vietnam War.
They showed us how to harvest tea leaves traditionally. We used bamboo baskets to collect the leaves and we had to pick them by hand.
After harvesting the tea leaves, we went to the family's small workshop to learn how to process the leaves into tea. The process is very labor-intensive, but it is also very rewarding. We used traditional tools to roll and ferment the leaves. After the leaves were fermented, we dried them again. Once the leaves were dried, we were able to try some of the freshly brewed tea.
It was delicious! The tea had a rich flavor and aroma. I was impressed by the quality of the tea.
Cooking with a friendly local host
After visiting the tea plantation, we went to the home of a local family for a cooking class. The family was very welcoming and friendly. Our host Mrs. Chin showed us how to make several traditional Vietnamese dishes, including spring rolls and Vietnamese salad.
Vietnamese food is known for its fresh ingredients, complex flavors, and balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements. The cuisine is also influenced by its diverse history, including its French colonial past. Banh mi is one of those cultural influences from the French. It is a Vietnamese sandwich made with a baguette, meat, vegetables, and pickled vegetables.
One of the dishes that we made was Spring Rolls which a thin rice paper rolls filled with various ingredients, such as shrimp, pork, vegetables, and noodles.
Vietnamese food is typically served with a variety of dipping sauces, such as nuoc cham (a fish sauce-based sauce) and hoisin sauce. Rice is also a staple of the Vietnamese diet.
After the cooking class, we sat down to enjoy a delicious lunch with the family. We ate the spring rolls and Vietnamese salad that we had made in the cooking class. We also had some other traditional Vietnamese dishes. The food was delicious and I enjoyed the company of the family.
We rested for a bit before we were off to the 2nd half of our adventure. Watch out for the second half!
Best time to travel to Vietnam
The Benefits of Traveling to Vietnam in August
We traveled to Vietnam in August because we wanted to avoid crowds and we find that traveling during the shoulder season just offers us a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. Here are some compelling reasons to plan your visit during this month:
Cultural Festivities and Celebrations. August is a month of significant cultural importance in Vietnam, marked by the celebration of the country's Independence Day on September 2nd. Leading up to this national holiday, the streets are adorned with flags and decorations, and the atmosphere is vibrant with patriotism and festive activities.
Fewer Crowds and Tranquil Experiences. As August is considered part of the low tourist season in Vietnam, travelers can enjoy a more relaxed and uncrowded experience. Popular tourist spots like Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, and Sapa are less crowded, allowing for a more intimate and immersive exploration.
Lush Landscapes and Natural Beauty. August falls in the rainy season for much of Vietnam, which may initially seem like a deterrent. However, the rains bring a refreshing coolness and transform the landscape into a lush, green paradise. The countryside, especially in regions like Ba Vi District and the Mekong Delta, is at its most verdant and picturesque. The waterfalls are more spectacular, the rice terraces are in their prime, and the natural scenery is breathtaking, making it a perfect time for nature lovers and photographers.
Affordable Travel and Accommodation. Airfares and accommodation rates tend to be more affordable during this off-peak season. Many hotels, resorts, and tour operators offer attractive discounts and promotions, providing excellent value for money. This makes it an ideal time for budget-conscious travelers to experience Vietnam's wonders without breaking the bank.
Convinced? Book your flight now!
Traveling to Vietnam in August is an opportunity to experience the country's rich culture, stunning natural beauty, and warm hospitality in a tranquil and affordable setting. Whether you're interested in cultural festivities, exploring lush landscapes, or savoring delicious food, August provides a unique and rewarding travel experience in Vietnam.
I hope you enjoyed our Off the Beaten Path Travel Guide to Hanoi!
TTYL
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