A Quick Escape - Riyadh to Ho Chi Minh City via the Philippines
Embarking on a solo trip is like stepping into a world of endless possibilities, where each moment is a chance for adventure and self-discovery. It's my escape from the ordinary, a journey that allows me to breathe in the fresh air of new experiences and insights. With each step I take, I feel myself growing, learning, and evolving, making memories that will last a lifetime. It's a time for me to reflect, recharge, and embrace the freedom of exploring the world on my terms.
Recently, I embarked on an unforgettable adventure from Riyadh to Ho Chi Minh City, with a short stopover in the Philippines. It was a short trip but was filled with adventures, culinary delights, cultural encounters, and exploration of the unique charm of Vietnam. The 3 days stopover in Philippines to spend time with family was also a brief but sweet moment.
I boarded a red eye Cebu Pacific flight to Ho Chi Minh City in Manila. I could hardly sleep during the flight as I was so eager to explore the vibrant culture and rich history of Vietnam. Saigon is one of the cities in my bucket list.
Touching down in Saigon City in the early morning hours, I was greeted by the hustle and bustle of a city coming to life. After a brief nap to shake off the jet lag, I eagerly set out to explore the vibrant streets and iconic landmarks that make Saigon City so unique. From the imposing Reunification Palace, where history seemed to echo through every corridor, to the lively stalls and fragrant aromas of Ben Thanh Market, I wasted no time in immersing myself in the sights, sounds, and flavors of this captivating city.
One of the most memorable moments of my journey was when I embarked on a guided tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels. It was a truly eye-opening experience that offered me a profound insight into Vietnam's wartime history. As I descended into the narrow tunnels, I couldn't help but feel a mixture of awe and reverence for the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people who once lived and fought in these underground passageways. Each step I took was like stepping back in time, and I found myself completely immersed in the stories of courage and sacrifice that echoed within the walls of the tunnels. It was a humbling experience that left a lasting impression on me, reminding me of the indomitable spirit of the human soul in the face of adversity.
No trip to Saigon would be complete without indulging in the city's world-renowned cuisine. From fragrant bowls of pho to crispy banh mi sandwiches, every meal was a feast for the senses. But it wasn't just the food that left an impression; it was the warmth and hospitality of the locals, who welcomed me into their homes and shared their culinary secrets with me. Through food, I was able to connect with the heart and soul of Vietnam, forging friendships that would last a lifetime.
Comparison of the Philippines and Vietnam:
Both the Philippines and Vietnam are rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, yet each offers a unique experience for travelers. While the Philippines boasts stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and a laid-back island vibe, Vietnam is known for its bustling cities, ancient temples, and mouthwatering cuisine. The people of both countries are incredibly warm and welcoming, with a deep sense of hospitality and a love for sharing their culture with visitors.
In terms of culture, the Philippines is heavily influenced by Spanish and American colonial history, resulting in a unique blend of Asian and Western traditions. On the other hand, Vietnam's culture is shaped by its long history of Chinese rule and more recent French colonialism, reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and language.
As I boarded my flight back to Riyadh, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the incredible journey I had experienced – from the bustling streets of Manila and my delightful, short visit to my kids, to the vibrant markets of Saigon. The Philippines and Vietnam both seem to share their culture, their cuisine, and their stories. Once again, I felt a sense of fulfillment and contentment, knowing that I had embarked on an adventure of a lifetime and created memories that would stay with me forever. Oh, I so love to travel!
Embarking on a solo trip is like stepping into a world of endless possibilities, where each moment is a chance for adventure and self-discovery. It's my escape from the ordinary, a journey that allows me to breathe in the fresh air of new experiences and insights. With each step I take, I feel myself growing, learning, and evolving, making memories that will last a lifetime. It's a time for me to reflect, recharge, and embrace the freedom of exploring the world on my terms.
Recently, I embarked on an unforgettable adventure from Riyadh to Ho Chi Minh City, with a short stopover in the Philippines. It was a short trip but was filled with adventures, culinary delights, cultural encounters, and exploration of the unique charm of Vietnam. The 3 days stopover in Philippines to spend time with family was also a brief but sweet moment.
I boarded a red eye Cebu Pacific flight to Ho Chi Minh City in Manila. I could hardly sleep during the flight as I was so eager to explore the vibrant culture and rich history of Vietnam. Saigon is one of the cities in my bucket list.
Touching down in Saigon City in the early morning hours, I was greeted by the hustle and bustle of a city coming to life. After a brief nap to shake off the jet lag, I eagerly set out to explore the vibrant streets and iconic landmarks that make Saigon City so unique. From the imposing Reunification Palace, where history seemed to echo through every corridor, to the lively stalls and fragrant aromas of Ben Thanh Market, I wasted no time in immersing myself in the sights, sounds, and flavors of this captivating city.
One of the most memorable moments of my journey was when I embarked on a guided tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels. It was a truly eye-opening experience that offered me a profound insight into Vietnam's wartime history. As I descended into the narrow tunnels, I couldn't help but feel a mixture of awe and reverence for the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people who once lived and fought in these underground passageways. Each step I took was like stepping back in time, and I found myself completely immersed in the stories of courage and sacrifice that echoed within the walls of the tunnels. It was a humbling experience that left a lasting impression on me, reminding me of the indomitable spirit of the human soul in the face of adversity.
No trip to Saigon would be complete without indulging in the city's world-renowned cuisine. From fragrant bowls of pho to crispy banh mi sandwiches, every meal was a feast for the senses. But it wasn't just the food that left an impression; it was the warmth and hospitality of the locals, who welcomed me into their homes and shared their culinary secrets with me. Through food, I was able to connect with the heart and soul of Vietnam, forging friendships that would last a lifetime.
Comparison of the Philippines and Vietnam:
Both the Philippines and Vietnam are rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, yet each offers a unique experience for travelers. While the Philippines boasts stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and a laid-back island vibe, Vietnam is known for its bustling cities, ancient temples, and mouthwatering cuisine. The people of both countries are incredibly warm and welcoming, with a deep sense of hospitality and a love for sharing their culture with visitors.
In terms of culture, the Philippines is heavily influenced by Spanish and American colonial history, resulting in a unique blend of Asian and Western traditions. On the other hand, Vietnam's culture is shaped by its long history of Chinese rule and more recent French colonialism, reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and language.
As I boarded my flight back to Riyadh, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the incredible journey I had experienced – from the bustling streets of Manila and my delightful, short visit to my kids, to the vibrant markets of Saigon. The Philippines and Vietnam both seem to share their culture, their cuisine, and their stories. Once again, I felt a sense of fulfillment and contentment, knowing that I had embarked on an adventure of a lifetime and created memories that would stay with me forever. Oh, I so love to travel!
