Venture - A Daring Journey
Southern Vietnam Yoga Retreat
WAS March 1-10, 2026
what a daring venture to Vietnam !
Our retreat group touched down safely in Ho Chi Minh City on March 1st—tired but joyful. They wasted no time indulging in massages to ease travel aches and sipping fresh coconut water to rehydrate. Little did we know when planning this retreat a year ago how fitting our theme would be. On that very day, news broke of conflict in Iran. The world felt shaken, yet we were grateful to be safe—thank you, Jesus!
We explored District 1, the bustling tourist hub, and District 5, the vibrant Chinatown. Crossing streets filled with thousands of motorbikes (without traffic lights!) was an adventure in itself. We learned to make bun cha—rolling rice paper around noodles, meat, and heaps of greens on the first night. Then next day we dined on Vietnamese seafood pancakes at a market stall sitting on tiny stools while a local family cooked and served us with love. And on the last evening, we enjoyed a four-course dinner aboard a city cruise under a lunar eclipse, celebrating Susan’s birthday in style. Our hotel offered five-star comfort, complete with the largest breakfast buffet we have ever seen. Morning yoga in a breezy garden and evening classes in a serene indoor studio set the rhythm of our days.
Next, we flew 45 minutes to Phu Quoc Island where true rest began. We were Surrounded by lush gardens and beachfront views, we practiced yoga in an open-air shala, followed by tea each morning. Nights were filled with Sunset Happy Hour and exotic seafood tastings (yes, even sea urchins!) at various local restaurants. We visited Starfish Island, a Bee Farm, rode Vietnam’s longest cable car over water (7.8 km) to get to Sunworld on Pineapple Island, visited a seaside pagoda and got some history at a Vietnam era prison. We also enjoyed plenty of free time for massages, private tours, or simply being still.
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9