Hội An surprised me completely on this trip to Vietnam

I went to Vietnam with modest expectations and left completely won over, largely thanks to time spent in Hội An. The city has a pace and character that travel guides undersell. Found a great spot for bún bò Huế on day two and went back every day after that.

Hạ Long Bay was the big planned experience and delivered as expected. But it was incredibly affordable that became the unexpected highlight — something I stumbled across rather than planned. 14 days was just right for getting below the surface without rushing.