DISCOVER JOY AS THE NEW METRIC FOR RUNNING SUCCESS WHILE EXPERIENCING VIETNAM’S CULTURE AND HERITAGE
Experience the power of intention for breaking free from pressure of expectations from yourself or others and redefine what “success” means to you
This nine-day trail running and wellness tour through northern Vietnam is an unforgettable journey through the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes of an enchanting region. Beginning in Hanoi, the bustling capital city that is steeped in history, you will explore ancient temples and sample the delicious street food. One of Hanoi’s highlights the Old Quarter, where the streets are lined with shops and vendors selling everything from traditional handicrafts to tasty snacks. Delight your senses as you take in the sights, sounds and smells of Hanoi’s “street symphony.”
Next, we escape the city and travel to stunning Sapa, a mountainous region that is home to many ethnic minority communities. The landscape here is truly breathtaking, with terraced rice paddies stretching as far as the eye can see and mist-shrouded peaks rising in the distance. This is a wonderful opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the diverse cultures that make up this fascinating region of Vietnam. Meet the friendly Red Dao hosts and experience their daily way of life, including Red Dao women, who, in keeping with ancient traditions, shave their hair and eye brows and wear very colorful costumes.
You’ll stay at stunning properties such as the Topas Riverside Lodge and Topas Ecolodge, where you can enjoy yoga, spa treatments and breathtaking views of a mountain-top infinity pool.
Your retreat package also includes an overnight cruise on Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is famous for its majestic limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters. While aboard the Paradise Grand luxury ship, you’ll explore hidden caves and grottoes, kayak serene bays and visit small fishing villages, where you can experience the traditional way of life and sample fresh seafood dishes.
This retreat’s relaxed pace offers quiet space for reflection, self care and mindfulness that is hard to find in the busy-ness of everyday life. While immersing yourself in this ancient culture’s traditions through farming, embroidery, botanical creations and running their ancient paths and trails, you’ll find inspiration to shift from always needing to be doing and achieving to relishing your sense of play without the expectation to perform. Let yourself enjoy running as a way of being present. You’ll come away from this retreat with tools you can continue to use any time you feel trapped by expectations and pressures to perform, either as a runner, leader or professional in any capacity.
