Nguyen Ngoc Minh, a 30-year-old resident of Ho Chi Minh City, and his wife Tran Thanh Thao have taken family bonding to new heights. The couple, along with their three-year-old daughter Nguyen Khanh An, recently completed a remarkable 30-day overland journey through Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand, exemplifying the spirit of adventure that defines their family lifestyle.
A Journey of Exploration
For Minh and Thao, travel is more than just a respite from daily life; it serves as an integral part of their family culture and a hands-on education for their young daughter. “Our recent trip lasted 30 days, starting from Vietnam through Cambodia and then into Thailand,” Minh explained. The family’s route took them through the Hoa Lu border gate into Cambodia, continuing to Poipet and eventually entering Thailand, where they explored scenic roads across central, northeastern, and northwestern regions.
Among the highlights of their journey was a visit to Ban Rak Thai, a tranquil village near the Myanmar border. Here, their daughter experienced rural life firsthand by picking tea leaves alongside local residents amidst lush green hills. “At night, my family gathered for a Chinese-style hotpot amid the mountain chill. It was an unforgettable memory,” Minh reminisced.
Scenic Drives and Challenges
The trip also led them along the Mae Hong Son Loop, known for its winding roads and breathtaking landscapes. “It’s one of the most breathtaking routes I’ve ever driven,” Minh stated, praising the majestic views and clean air of northern Thailand. He reflected on how becoming a parent transformed his perspective on traveling: “I’ve always loved hitting the road, but once I had a family, I realized the journey isn’t just mine anymore. It’s a chance for us to learn, experience, and grow together.”
Minh emphasized the educational value of these real-world experiences for his daughter, believing they foster flexible thinking, adaptability, and a broader worldview. “Instead of just reading about faraway places, she gets to see them, touch them, and feel them first-hand,” he said, highlighting the significance of experiential learning.
Family-Friendly Planning
Traveling with a toddler demands meticulous planning, according to Minh. He underscored the importance of selecting appropriate rest stops, packing suitable food and clothing, and ensuring that their daughter remains comfortable throughout each day’s adventures. “The most important thing is to create a joyful atmosphere so that she can see the trip as fun, not just tagging along with her parents,” he noted.
Choosing the Right Vehicle
A key factor in their successful road trips has been the choice of vehicle. Previously using a pickup truck, Minh’s family now relies on a Toyota Fortuner, praised for its spaciousness and comfort. “I chose the Fortuner because it’s roomy, which is ideal for a child and long road trips,” he explained. The rear seats are adjustable to accommodate camping gear or to serve as a resting space when needed.
While pickups have off-road advantages, Minh found them less suitable for family travel due to limited cabin space. In contrast, the Fortuner provides a spacious and durable ride, although its high center of gravity can affect handling on sharp turns or mountainous roads.
Future Adventures Await
Despite completing this extensive trip, Minh and his family show no signs of slowing down. They are already mapping out future journeys to Malaysia and Singapore, with dreams of exploring Indonesia or the Philippines. Minh expressed a desire to inspire other families with young children to explore the world. “These journeys create priceless memories and lifelong lessons,” he remarked.
Through their adventures, Minh, Thao, and little Khanh An are not just creating cherished family memories; they are also cultivating a spirit of exploration and curiosity that will benefit them all for years to come.`
