Vietnam & Cambodia: A Journey I Never Knew I Needed

I’ve always been a well‑travelled, adventure‑seeking woman, but nothing quite prepared me for the whirlwind that was Vietnam and Cambodia. I went in with no major expectations - just a quiet certainty that Vietnam had been sitting on my bucket list for far too long. What I didn’t expect was to share the experience with 39 like‑minded travel souls on my very first ONX Experience. And let me tell you… it did not disappoint.

We kicked things off in Hanoi, a city that simply refuses to sleep. The night market buzzed with life - bargains everywhere, colours everywhere, and me happily bartering like it was an Olympic sport. Our first group meal set the tone: gleeful travellers introducing themselves, clinking glasses, and gearing up for the adventure ahead. Then came Train Street, where we sipped something cool and refreshing while the train thundered past just inches away. Surreal.

Somewhere between the laughter and the humidity, half the group walked away with new nashers. Yes - dentist appointments. From a quick polish to a full new set, the Hanoi dentists were busy. The heat was ferocious, but it didn’t slow us down. Not when Michelin‑starred dining was on the table—three courses for £18. I still can’t believe it.

Then came our luxury cruise to Ha Long Bay. The ship was glorious, the views even more so. On the second night, we turned the all‑white party into a full‑blown rave. The onboard entertainment wasn’t ready for the ONX crew—we brought the vibe, the energy, the moves. Between cave exploring, kayaking, and drifting past floating fishing communities, life on the bay felt like stepping into a dream.

Hoi An was next, and I was excited. Tailor heaven. Custom clothes, custom shoes—why not? Add in more glorious Vietnamese food, tuk‑tuk rides, and a lantern‑lighting ceremony on the river that left me genuinely moved. A moment to pause, reflect, and give thanks. Some of the group headed to the fireworks show, which turned out to be a spectacular feast for the eyes.

Ba Na Hills was another highlight - the famous Hand Bridge rising through the mist like something out of a fantasy film. The cable car ride alone was worth the trip.

Then Cambodia. A few hours of sleep, an early rise, and suddenly we were standing before Angkor Wat. Ancient, majestic, spiritual. As we marvelled at its beauty, a cheeky little monkey was busy scoping out whose breakfast he was going to steal. Pure comedy.

Our Cambodian accommodation? Next‑level luxury. The perfect ending to a trip that was beautiful, fun‑filled, culturally rich, and belly‑achingly full of laughter (and food).

To the ONX organisers - thank you. You pulled together an unforgettable experience. My heart is full, my suitcase(s)  fuller, and my spirit feels wide awake again.

Juliette Regisford-Montague