Vietnam

VIETNAM TRAVEL DIARY | PART II


Vietnam really is a magnificent country...







A few years ago, I had the opportunity to live and work in the North of Vietnam, in Hanoi, which was such a unique and eye opening experience.

At the end of last year, I had the opportunity to revisit Vietnam, with Contiki as a part of their Vietnam Highlights package.

SEE PART ONE OF MY VIETNAM TRAVEL DIARY HERE

On the second half of the tour I was able to explore more of the South of Vietnam, from Hoi An, to Hue.

An absolute highlight of the trip was my first visit to the beautiful and historic city of Hoi An. 

Hoi An was so different to other parts of Vietnam I had experienced. It felt untouched and I loved the history weaved through the town's architecture, food and shopping. Hoi An, truly is a melting pot of Vietnamese, Chinese and Japanese culture.

The best way to get around is definitely by cycle, and a stroll through the markets after dark is a must. You will be treated to the most beautifully overwhelming display of colourful lanterns.

If you get the chance, a visit to Vietnam is a must. A country so vast and diverse, there is definitely something for everyone.


ON FILM | 2014 WHAT A RIDE...

2014 for me was a year filled with extreme highs, and extreme lows.

On the one had, I had the good fortune of travelling the world, and on the other, this was the year that I experienced my first significant loss.

 Now more so than ever, am I aware of just how beautiful and volatile life can be. And it is for this reason, that the philosophy of, living each day to its fullest (as cliche as it sounds) underpins by being and existence.

  As my father would always say - be the kind of person who leaves a positive mark on the world.

 My goal for 2015 is to explore more of this incredible world and give back in which ever way I can. I will focus on my health and well-being.
I want to make the most of each day and make each day count.

 I am thankful beyond words for the opportunities and experiences I've enjoyed and the people I've met along the way - who have each left their mark on my journey.

 But most of all, I owe thanks to YOU, for reading this post and my blog.

 For now, I choose to reflect on the positive, highlighting some of my favourite adventures of 2014. From walking the red carpet in LA, alongside Leonardo Di Caprio, to snorkelling the beautiful depths of the Maldives, to experiencing the most terrifying and exhilarating bungee jump off Auckland Bridge.

 I leave you with the thought 'blessed are the curious for they shall have the adventures'.

Happy new year to all of my gorgeous readers, and here's to a prosperous 2015.

- Jasmin, your Friend in Fashion

VIETNAM TRAVEL DIARY | PART I


 Over the last week, I've had the incredible opportunity of touring Vietnam with Contiki.

A few years ago, I actually lived in the North of Vietnam, but never really had the chance to experience all of this beautiful and diverse country, so I was particularly looking forward to this trip.

The tour took us from Ho Chi Minh (Saigon), through to Nha Trang, Hoi An, Hue and Hanoi.

This is part I of my Vietnam highlights.

HO CHI MINH CITY MUST DOS

 A visit to the War Remnants Museum, a highly emotive, and insightful curation of photography and relics from the Vietnam (American) War.

 Get lost, exploring on foot the beautifully cosmopolitan city. French architecture features heavily throughout Saigon.

 If you're a coffee drinker, pull up a stool at one of the many local street-stide cafe's and order a 'ca phe da'

NHA TRANG MUST DO

 Nha Trang is all about the beach - walk along the esplanade and stop along one of the many beach-side eateries to enjoy great fresh seafood, or a tasty cocktail at sun-down.

Take the short boat ride out to Hon Mun Island, and experience the most amazing crystal blue waters - great for snorkelling.

The Sailing Club is a fun spot if you want to dance the night away.

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I've never been much of a group traveller, but I must say I was surprised at just how fun, travelling as a Contiki group was.

Not only do you get to experience some incredible cities, thanks to incredibly insightful guides, but you also make great friends (from all different parts of the world) along the way.

More from my trip to Vietnam coming up soon. In the meantime, follow the adventure on INSTAGRAM @friendinfashion


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