Along the Mekong

Mr. Bernard DUHAMEL

Travel with M.Bernard DUHAMEL

Danielle and his friends

Feedback on Our Vietnam Trip

First, the organization was remarkable, and we appreciated the support we received. The hotels were excellent: we were able to rest well. Overall, they were well-located, particularly in Hanoi, where the hotel was close to the old quarters.

The meals were moments of relaxation and pure pleasure. We were completely captivated by Vietnamese cuisine—refined, diverse, and very easy to digest. We also enjoyed dining at small, popular restaurants, which allowed us to experience everyday cuisine that we liked.

The visit to the Lover’s House was interesting, and the idea of dining there was excellent. We were enchanted by the land-based Halong Bay. As for the maritime part, we didn’t regret that it was shortened, as the Red River Delta was quite crowded, and the gasoline fumes from other junks diminished the experience. Thanks to Thuyen and everything he showed us in the 36 Guild Streets, we felt we made the most of the extra half-day in Hanoi.

The visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels seems essential. However, we did not enjoy the royal meal at all. Except for two or three traditional songs, the music was international. Moreover, the table arrangement and music prevented any conversation.

We regret only seeing the fishing village from a distance. We were annoyed by the commercial aggressiveness in Hoi An and the fake fishing activities. Additionally, the bike ride along the river was very short.

All the guides were welcoming and efficient. Everything went well.

Our group was not homogeneous, and what I note here reflects the views of four of us. We were very interested in Vu Van Thuyen’s commentary: he has deep knowledge, a genuine culture, and a good command of French, allowing him to answer all our questions and clearly contextualize what we saw in terms of the country's history, religious thought, and customs.

Perhaps due to our background, we need this approach. We represent a category of tourists who travel, are sensitive to language quality (easily annoyed by familiar phrases like "yum-yum" or "all aboard"), and want to discover the country through walks (bike rides, markets, floating markets), but also need to immerse themselves in the country's history, religious history, economic and political practices, even if it requires time and effort. From what I understand about guide training in Vietnam, this demand is difficult for them to meet.

Many of our friends or colleagues travel to Asia or Africa with French guides who specialize in the region they are visiting. This could be a niche for you, provided these groups are entrusted to Vietnamese historian guides (this option should be highlighted in the promotional brochure).

In this context, the visit to the orchard is a good idea, but it should also include time to discuss the plantation’s operation, profitability, and how tourism contributes to this profitability. Similarly, the visit to Duras’s mother’s school is interesting only if it presents the functioning of schools in Vietnam.

I believe I have covered everything. I hope highlighting the negative points will help develop your agency. Rest assured, we are very happy with this trip, and our overall assessment is very positive. We are also sharing your contact details with two groups of friends who want to visit Vietnam.

Best regards,
Danielle.

Philippe and his Friends

Trip to Sapa for Philippe and his Friends

Hello Tien,

Well we have been back home for a little time and we have resumed our training right away. Today we write to you to thank you very much for your help on our trip to Sapa and our airline tickets. We send you some souvenir photos.

All our friendship 

Phil

Estelle's family

Holidays at the home of Estelle

Hello Tien,

Marie and Jean

Voyage with Marie and Jean