Ro Richards
Vietnam with Patch Adventures - Outstanding from Start to Finish I've just returned from Patch's 2025 Christmas/New Year Vietnam adventure and I'm still buzzing. From the moment we arrived, the itinerary felt beautifully paced, thoughtful, and full of unforgettable experiences. Our guide, Miss Chi, was exceptional, warm, generous, and endlessly enthusiastic. She made every experience feel personal, whether navigating the energy of Hanoi and Saigon or sharing stories over bowls of pho. Claire and the Patch team were equally impressive behind the scenes, with seamless organisation and my roomie was an absolute angel. Christmas Eve in Hanoi was a highlight, from dancing with locals and riding the train through the Old Quarter to discovering incredible places to eat and drink. Vietnamese coffee quickly became a daily ritual, and the restaurants and cafés Patch chose were outstanding, with our tables constantly overflowing with fresh, flavour-packed dishes that showcased the best of Vietnamese cuisine. Highlights included a hands-on cooking class at Tra Que Organic Village, a relaxed yet flavour-packed cycle food tour through local neighbourhoods, and an exhilarating motorbike street food tour. The markets were a sensory overload in the best way, from fresh meat, fish, toads, earthy herbs, shouting vendors, and vibrant produce packed into narrow, buzzing aisles. The outstanding scenery from Ninh Binh, Phong Nha caves, lakes and rivers were jaw dropping stunning. The overnight cruise on Lan Ha Bay was pure serenity, with a Vovinam (tai chi) session on the deck on Boxing Day. Hoi An delighted at every turn with lantern making, custom clothing made to fit, and exceptional food. In the Mekong Delta, we experienced the gentle rhythm of local life, from making rice pancakes to travelling by sampan and tuk-tuk and eating elephant fish in a local village. I also want to address a recent negative review about this tour. Having been on the same trip, I can say that the account presented does not reflect the experience of the group. The situation in question was managed early in the tour due to clear safety and group dynamics, and Patch handled it professionally, respectfully, and with care for everyone involved. The claims made on Google do not match what I personally witnessed during the tour. The people of Vietnam were incredible, hardworking, generous, and warm which made every experience feel extra special. The group of women I travelled with was amazing, supportive, and full of energy, making the whole adventure even more memorable. Even the traffic became part of the charm, chaotic, fascinating, and somehow poetic. Patch doesn't just deliver on its promises; it exceeds them. If you're looking for culture, connection, incredible food, and a touch of adventure, I can't recommend Patch's Vietnam itinerary highly enough. Rowena Richards
2/01/2026