Gaurav Nayak and Family’s Vietnamese Sojourn: A Thrillophilia Hanoi to Da Nang Review
Gaurav Nayak had always imagined Vietnam as a tapestry of vibrant colours, bustling streets, and serene waters, and finally, in late August 2025, he embarked on this long-awaited adventure with his extended family. Seven in total, spanning three generations, the group included his father-in-law Anil Jain, mother-in-law Anubha Jain, his children Aryan and Arnav, and his relatives Pradeep and Pratibha Jain. The plan was meticulously curated by Thrillophilia, whose reputation for seamless arrangements had inspired Gaurav to trust them entirely.
Their journey began in Hanoi, where the morning air carried a gentle warmth and the city hummed with quiet anticipation. The private transfer from Noi Bai International Airport to La Passion Classic Hotel offered a smooth introduction to the city. Even with the long flight behind them, the family felt welcomed and at ease thanks to the courteous driver and the efficient check-in. By evening, they found themselves wandering along Hanoi’s Train Street, mesmerised by the sight of local life intertwining with the rhythmic rumble of passing trains. It was a modest beginning, yet it felt intimate, almost like stepping into a living postcard.
The next day, a private half-day city tour allowed the family to see Hanoi in its quiet splendour. From the Old Quarter’s labyrinthine alleys to the reflective calm of Hoan Kiem Lake, each corner revealed fragments of history and culture. Their guide narrated stories of the city with warmth and patience, drawing the children in with tales of ancient traditions. Gaurav noted how the city’s pulse could be felt not just in its streets but in the smiles of its people, the steam rising from street-side cafes, and the gentle clatter of bicycles weaving through traffic.
Excitement deepened as they ventured to Ninh Binh the following day. The shared transfer allowed them moments of rest while glimpses of rice paddies and limestone karsts unfurled outside the window. Boarding small boats, they drifted through emerald waters, past towering cliffs and delicate caves. The cycle tour to Bich Dong Temple added a sense of gentle adventure. Aryan and Arnav giggled as they rode alongside their cousins, the soft breeze teasing their hair, while Gaurav and Anubha admired the harmony between nature and human touch in the cultivated landscapes.
Halong Bay was next, and the family eagerly boarded the cruise for an overnight experience. While the scenic vistas of turquoise waters and limestone islands surpassed all expectations, the group faced a minor challenge. The coach transporting them from Hanoi to Halong Bay was far less comfortable than anticipated, with broken seats and very limited legroom. However, the Thrillophilia team responded promptly, arranging cushions and alternate seating for a more comfortable journey. This swift resolution ensured that the inconvenience barely dulled their excitement, and soon they were enveloped in the ethereal beauty of the bay, enjoying freshly prepared meals aboard the cruise as gentle waves rocked the vessel.
A short flight took them to Da Nang, where the soft sands of My Khe Beach invited quiet reflection and playful strolls. The Cicilia Hotel & Spa offered a restful haven, and the family appreciated the thoughtfulness of the staff in accommodating their group size. The following day, a private excursion to Hoi An’s coconut forests and bustling night markets showcased the region’s charming contrasts. The air was fragrant with tropical blooms, and the gentle clinking of lanterns in the market felt almost poetic. David, their guide, shared stories of the town’s history and culture, weaving context around every corner and alleyway.
Ba Na Hills delivered yet another highlight, as the group rode the cable car up to panoramic views and crossed the iconic Golden Bridge. The blend of French architecture and mountain scenery seemed almost surreal. Even the younger travellers were captivated by the Fantasy Park rides, while the elders appreciated quiet moments amid the gardens and temples. Throughout the day, the family laughed together, captured photographs that would forever remind them of the experience, and absorbed the cool, fresh air atop the hills.
The final leg of their journey brought them to Phu Quoc Island. Clear waters, soft sands, and the gentle sway of boats defined this chapter of their adventure. A speedboat ride to Thom Island and the world’s longest sea-crossing cable car left them breathless with awe. Snorkelling and leisurely beach walks allowed each family member to connect with the island in their own way, while shared meals fostered moments of quiet reflection on the journey so far.
Throughout the trip, the family felt the attentive care of Thrillophilia. Ayush from Sales ensured that all questions were answered promptly, Jenny managed on-ground coordination with patience and efficiency, and David guided them in Hoi An with infectious enthusiasm. The Hanoi hotel, while ideally located, fell short of expectations in terms of cleanliness and food quality, but the staff’s earnest efforts mitigated much of the discomfort. This minor imperfection did not shadow the overall experience, thanks to the team’s proactive support.
As they bid farewell at Da Nang Airport, Gaurav and his family carried more than souvenirs. They took with them the warmth of shared experiences, laughter echoing across waters and hills, and a newfound appreciation for the delicate interplay of culture, nature, and history. Every meal savoured, every market explored, and every sunset watched together became part of an intricate memory tapestry. The trip had not just been a journey through Vietnam but a journey through moments that strengthened family bonds and created stories to recount for years.
Gaurav reflected on the entire experience with quiet gratitude. The careful planning, smooth transfers, insightful guides, and thoughtful resolution of minor inconveniences had turned what could have been a complex journey into a seamless adventure. Vietnam had revealed its many faces to them, tranquil, vibrant, historic, and modern, and Thrillophilia had made it possible for them to embrace each one without worry. For anyone seeking a journey that combines comfort, exploration, and heartfelt discovery, Gaurav would wholeheartedly recommend trusting Thrillophilia to guide the way.
Read More: Thrillophilia Vietnam Reviews