We prepare for this transformational retreat through the words of Jack Kornfield's thought-provoking book, The Art of Forgiveness, Lovingkindness, and Peace. This will be our guide into Mindfulness. You might also find The Women by Kristin Hannah fascinating historical context.

You are also invited to three Saturday workshop sessions with our Mindfulness facilitator, Millie Wright in January so that you have a general understanding of Mindfulness before you go.

We will also host a trip group call prior to departure so that you can get to know your hosts and trip sisters, share trip intentions, and field logistics questions and needs.

Morning arrival in Hanoi, Vietnam's vibrant capital city, known for its graceful colonial architecture, frenetic streets, verdant parks and ancient temples. You will be met by our guide then transferred to the hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to explore the city on your own until our group gathering at 4pm, followed by a delicious welcome dinner. (D)

Let’s explore both Hanoi’s main attractions and little-seen back alleys by foot, then a thrilling motorbike or Jeep adventure. While the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum is a must see along the way, we'll also stop to sample egg coffee give you a fun tour of culinary culture! (B,L)

Enjoy an evening exploring with freedom to grab dinner along the way and turn in early, if desired. We will give you plenty of recommendations, and you’re welcome to join our guide as well! (B,L)

Spectacular Ha Long Bay, with its striking collection of islands, floating houseboats, and peaceful expanses of water, provides the perfect quiet spot for our group to slow down and begin to lay the groundwork for our topic of forgiveness. We will have the boat all to ourselves where we can relax, get to know each other, and dive into the inner journey. (B,L,D)

We will also take time to explore nearby majestic limestone caves, hike and kayak, and participate in Tai Chi on the boat’s deck at sunrise. Count on fun evening festivities as well! (B,L,D)

After breakfast and morning practices onboard, our chefs will give us a glimpse into the art of food decoration revered in Vietnam. 

Then it's time to return to Hanoi. Expect some surprise stops along the way before a fascinating cultural immersion experience at the Museum of Ethnic Groups. 

The evening is saved for a special group dinner and gathering with time to digest the experiences that we've had so far. (B,L,D)

Early morning Laughing Yoga with a local group of women in the park is always a highlight. Then it’s on to the famous water puppet show in the historic district.  

When we arrive in Hue, the Imperial City awaits! We will also have several opportunities for intimate glimpses into local life – from lunch with nuns at their pagoda and a touching visit to an orphanage. One of our authentic highlights will be a rare home-hosted dinner where we will meet descendants of the princess and king! (B,L,D)

The Tu Hieu pagoda where famed monk Thich Nhan Hanh started his practice will be our backdrop for a deep dive into the Mindfulness he taught. We will also visit the mausoleum of King Tu Duc.

Despite the passing of 200 years and the ravage of weather and war, the center of Hoi An remains much the same as it was in its heyday. Our walking tour is the best way to see the wooden-fronted houses that once belonged to the town's prosperous merchants, the Japanese-covered Bridge and the wonderful market as well as the many silk, handicrafts, antique shops and galleries. 

We’re also in for a special bonding experience cooking and eating our own dinner together, then finishing our evening with the magical lantern walk along the river. (B,L,D & B,D)

Ho Chi Minh City, still called Saigon by many locals, was known as the "Paris of the Orient." Today, Vietnam's largest city is an industrial, cultural and educational hub, but still retains vestiges of its colonial past. While here, we will see both of the major sites of this historical city - like its Notre Dame Cathedral, botanical gardens, and the thought-provoking War Remnant Museum.

Excursions outside of Saigon will provide typical daily rural scenes, such as farmers in the rice paddies and villagers drying noodles by the side of the road. 

A few hours from the city, the Cu Chi Tunnels, an incredible underground tunnel network constructed by Vietnamese resistance fighters (Viet Cong) during both the French and American wars, takes us directly to the war’s action. For our last evening together, we will host a celebration dinner and reflect on both the inner and outer journeys of Vietnam. (B,D & B,L & B,L,D)

Breakfast will be served at the hotel. Enjoy the city, and feel free to make your departure plans any time that day! (B)

Your Honest Heart journey can continue after you arrive home! We'll host a group call several weeks after we return so all can share further highlights and where our lives are taking us. Our WhatsApp trip community is also a beautiful place to stay in touch.

It's also fun to see you embrace further trips so you can continue to travel with your HHJ sisters!