I'm planning a trip with my two teens (15 and 18), and feeling a bit stuck. I traveled extensively in the early '90s, including a visit to Ha Long Bay, which left a deep impression on me. I’d love to share that experience with my kids, but the more I read, the more it seems the landscape—and vibe—has changed dramatically over the past 30 years.

I'm now wondering if alternatives like Bai Tu Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay might offer a more pristine or less-touristy experience. Or should I just shift direction entirely and consider somewhere like Ninh Binh, which seems to offer a different kind of natural beauty?

Back in the day, I backpacked and traveled second/third class, but I’m now more comfortable with higher-end or luxe travel experiences. That said, we're still an urban family that really values nature, quiet, and grand landscapes.

I’d appreciate any thoughts or advice, especially from those who’ve visited recently or know how these places compare today.

I have been travelling to Vietnam for decades and I feel it is safe to say you will find that things have changed dramatically since your visits in the 90s. I just would not bother revisiting Ha Long. Bai Tu long and Lan Ha are marginally less touristy and a high end cruise may provide ether experience you seek.

Ninh Binh has stunning scenery but parts are now very touristy and I would suggest avoiding weekend when it gets overrun with domestic visitors from Hanoi. A good guide or tour operator should be able to get you away from teh crowds the rest of the week.

For luxury out in the countryside, one place we stayed at that may fit is Mai Chau Eco Lodge - a different sort of scenery but also stunning. From there you could get to places like Pu Long NP and the countryside around there and the Black river valley see few tourists and is all about homestays in the minority villages and trekking. No much by way of creature comforts though!

Other places I would consider might be Phong Nha Khe Be for the largest cave sytem in the world which you could combine with Hue, the old imperial capital

Another thought is the Mekong Delta. Completely different to the north in terms of people and landscapes but equally rewarding. If you want luxury then a cruise around the delta may suit. Land based, Ben are, Can tho, Vinh Long and Chau Doc are all great . From Chau Doc you could even get teh boat upriver to Phnom Penh across the border in Cambodia.