A Solo Trip to Thailand and Vietnam: Turning Orelia’s Worries into Wanderlust

For some travellers, planning a holiday is pure excitement. For others it feels overwhelming — and that was exactly where Orelia started. Her solo trip to Thailand and Vietnam almost didn’t happen at all, so being there to guide her step by step, and watching it turn into a joyful adventure, is a story I hold close.

How a nervous first call became a solo trip to Thailand and Vietnam

Our first conversations were special. Orelia contacted me on the very first day of July. I replied, but didn’t hear back — and with so many chats going at once, I gradually forgot about it. Then, unexpectedly, in the middle of July, she reached out again.

On that call she shared that our original proposal hadn’t quite matched her style, so she’d gone with another agent — and was now disappointed with their service. She was almost in tears, so I didn’t press for details. I just focused on reassuring her. After taking time to prepare, I redesigned a two-country Thailand and Vietnam itinerary aligned exactly with what she wanted, and slowly her excitement came back.

When the plan changed at the last minute

But the story didn’t end there. Orelia was originally meant to travel with her friend Obdulia. Very close to departure, her friend was diagnosed with cancer and could no longer join. It was a delicate situation: travelling solo meant no one to share room and transport costs, so the price rose — and her budget was limited, yet she truly wanted this journey to happen.

I honestly lost count of the late-night calls we shared — we live twelve hours apart. Each time she rang, it was because she was worried, and I completely understood. Travelling solo across the world can feel intimidating, especially after such unexpected news. So I suggested a program better designed for a solo traveller and comfortable within her budget. Thankfully, she was truly happy with the new plan.

Culture note: in Thailand, sending up a lantern is a way of letting go of the old and wishing for the year ahead — a fittingly hopeful ritual for a trip that began in so much worry.

The Land of Smiles, the lantern festival, and the Mekong

At the end of October, Orelia began her journey across half the world, from the United States to Thailand. She soaked up the beauty of the Land of Smiles, joined the famous lantern festival, and then continued to Southern Vietnam, visiting Ho Chi Minh City and the poetic Mekong Delta.

Almost every day, I received messages from her — her joy, her photos, her gratitude. Honestly, I couldn’t have been happier. Knowing I’d helped untangle her worries, and that she was fully enjoying her solo adventure, made me love my work even more.

“Before she left, she told me she’s already planning to come back next year — to see the rest of Vietnam, and to finally meet me in person.”

My one small regret is that I’m based in Northern Vietnam, so I didn’t get to meet her this time. But that promise to return — that, to me, is the most beautiful part of this job.

Tips from Orelia’s trip

Want a trip like Orelia’s?

Like the look of Orelia’s journey? Her trip paired Thailand with our Southern Vietnam route through Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong, with a spell in northern Thailand first. Message me, Rachel, and I’ll tailor a two-country trip that suits you — solo or not.

Over to you: have you explored the Mekong Delta? I’d love to hear how you found it — tell me in the comments below. Thank you!

Quick FAQ from Orelia’s trip

If a two-country journey like Orelia’s speaks to you, reach out to My Viva Tour — solo or with friends, we’ll shape it around you and be there every step of the way.