Travelling in Vietnam with kids

The cities are frenetic, the markets full of strange sounds and smells, and the long journeys from north-south will test the patience of little ones – and big ones.

But there is much to enjoy in Vietnam with kids – the enchanting water puppet theatres, laid-back beach resorts and islands, friendly local communities and of course the trains, boats and cyclo rides.

Cycling, kayaking, hiking and snorkelling will keep energetic teenagers entertained, and there is an excellent balance of culture and nature, chaos and tranquillity, allowing families to plan the perfect, personalised itinerary.

We certainly don’t recommend a trip to any of Vietnam’s zoos or animal parks unless you want distressed children on your hands, but you can get up close to several species of endangered langur in Cuc Phuong’s Primate Rescue Centre. The centre runs a successful breeding programme, and also supports carnivore and pangolin conservation programmes. Ethical, educational – and fun.

“I wouldn’t advise travelling with toddlers because the facilities are not very child friendly. It’s nothing like what you’re used to in England – the toilets are difficult with a young child, the restaurants and museums don’t have changing tables and other facilities. But kids from eight upwards who like to explore will love Vietnam. They can ride a pony in Sapa, go rafting down the river, paddle a large basket boat, make decorative lanterns from silk in Hoi An. You can also learn to make spring rolls, salads, noodles... the children go out to the markets with a guide to get the ingredients and come back to cook and eat them.”