A Journey Through Northern Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, and Hong Kong – November and December 2024

Traveling has always fascinated me—the opportunity to discover new places, meet people, explore cultures, savor cuisines, and conquer peaks is an inseparable part of my life. November and December 2024 marked another chapter of this adventure, and the destinations I visited—Northern Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, and Hong Kong—left me with unforgettable memories.

Northern Vietnam – A Journey to Another World

Vietnam captivated me with its diversity. I began in Hanoi, where tradition and modernity create a unique harmony. Participating in the Hanoi Night Marathon allowed me to see the city from a new perspective, while the narrow streets of the old quarter invited me to indulge in local delicacies. For me, Vietnamese cuisine is culinary perfection—aromatic, fresh, and diverse. And what about the people? They are incredibly welcoming, helpful, and always smiling. Combined with the low cost of living, Vietnam is a must-see destination for any traveler.

I spent the next few days in Ha Long Bay, where the magical landscape makes time stand still. Sapa, with its rice fields and cooler climate, provided the perfect contrast. Climbing Fansipan, Vietnam’s highest peak, was a challenge, but the views made every effort worthwhile. Despite all its advantages, Northern Vietnam might not be a place I’d want to live in, but it’s definitely a destination worth visiting.

Singapore – A City of the Future

Singapore is one of those places that never fails to impress. This was my second visit, but the modernity and greenery of this city-state continue to amaze me. Visiting the iconic Marina Bay Sands, strolling through Gardens by the Bay, and climbing Bukit Timah Hill, Singapore’s highest point, were incredible experiences. Singapore is an expensive yet extremely attractive destination—technologically advanced, filled with greenery, and multicultural. Simply walking through its neighborhoods is enough to feel the diversity of nationalities and traditions. It’s a place I’d gladly return to.

Malaysia – Spirituality and Hospitality

I spent three days in Johor Bahru, discovering the calmer, less touristy side of Malaysia. Compared to Vietnam, Malaysians are equally spiritually evolved and hospitable, though Vietnam stands out in these aspects. The cuisine, rich in spices and flavors, was an unforgettable part of this adventure. Malaysia is a country that values simplicity and modesty, and this could be felt in every aspect of my experience.

Hong Kong – An Intense Metropolis

Hong Kong is a place that offers overwhelming impressions, but I found it hard to feel at home there. While climbing Tai Mo Shan, its highest peak, and exploring the city’s diverse districts was interesting, the city didn’t leave as strong an impression on me as the other destinations. The combination of its fast-paced rhythm and language barriers left me with mixed feelings. It’s a place worth seeing, but for me, there’s no need to return.

Reflections on the Journey

This trip through four destinations reminded me once again how much I love exploring the world, meeting people, discovering cuisines, and conquering both literal and metaphorical peaks. Each place I visited had its own unique character: spiritual Vietnam, modern Singapore, tranquil Malaysia, and intense Hong Kong. If I were to recommend one place above the others, Northern Vietnam definitely stands out—not just for its cuisine and landscapes, but also for the people, whose smiles can brighten anyone’s day.