We spent most of our third day in Vietnam outside of Hanoi, in the city of Ninh Binh. We joined an AirBnb tour for the day trip to the Ha Long Bay on land which was located about 2 1/2 hours away from the city.

There was a rest stop about 1 1/2 hours away where we had a mid-morning snack of banh mi and fries before arriving at our first destination at the ancient city of Hoa Lu where we visited the grounds of two temples for two kings, King Dinh and King Le.

We had a buffet lunch shortly thereafter and for those who were so inclined, a 30 minute bike ride deep in the countryside was offered.

We then walked to the Tam Coc wharf for what I would call a life altering excursion. Each boat carried the rower and two to three guests. The rowers used their feet to paddle their oars saving their backs from undue and repetitive stress.

During the 90 minute boat ride, we were in the midst of some of the most breathtaking majestic sights of Mother Nature’s bounty. The stunning lush green landscape and the towering limestone mountains hovering over the marsh rice fields and the serene river embodied what I imagine Xanadu would be like as it is a place that quiets the mind and stills the heart.

For the duration of our time on the river, we observed the rural surroundings and slow paced rhythm while enjoying the sound of the gentle lapping of the water as the oars gently glided us down the waterway. It truly was an idyllic respite and helped us appreciate the simplicity of life.