Around 90 minutes from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Thai Hai Village offers an experience of travel shaped by community, culture and a deep connection to nature. For more than 20 years, the village has been guided by Ms. Hai, whose vision was to create a place where Tay people could continue to live together while preserving and sharing their traditions.
The experience begins before entering the village. Visitors are introduced to local customs and beliefs, including the ritual of pouring water three times and washing the hands before entering, followed by the sound of a gong announcing the arrival of a guest. The colours, ornaments and symbols found throughout the village each carry their own meaning, offering an introduction to a culture that remains part of everyday life.
Thai Hai’s approach to community living is equally distinctive. Guest spaces are kept separate from the homes of local families, allowing residents to maintain their daily routines without disruption. The village itself is surrounded by gardens and greenery that have been cultivated over the years. Families grow herbs used for food and traditional medicine, share daily meals, and maintain their own school within the community. Rather than creating activities specifically for visitors, the village opens a window into work that is already part of everyday life. Different families have their own roles: tending medicinal gardens, caring for bees, preparing sticky rice cakes, roasting tea, producing crafts and supporting the traditional medicine centre. These practices exist first for the community, with visitors invited to observe, learn, and participate.
In the evening, a shared meal in one of the family homes offered a warm glimpse into everyday life in Thai Hai. Family and friends gathered around the table, sharing food, stories and music, with traditional flute playing adding to the relaxed atmosphere. The evening ended with a traditional popping-rice celebration, bringing everyone together in a simple and joyful expression of community.
Thai Hai demonstrates how regenerative travel can support the continuation of culture and community while encouraging a respectful relationship between the visitors, local people and their place. For those looking to experience Vietnam through its living communities, traditions and deep connection to nature, please contact [email protected] to explore experiences like Thai Hai.