A non-running week that will immerse you in Vietnam's fascinating heritage, culture, cuisine and healing traditions
In keeping with our passion for creating retreats that support all of you as a woman--not just a runner--we invite you to our inaugural Wellness Week retreat, that offers seven non-running, enriching days of travel, wellness and mindfulness that are sure to leave you feeling nourished inside and out. There may not be group runs on this itinerary, but you'll still enjoy mindful travel, incredible connections, memorable experiences and expert leadership you would expect from Run Wild Retreats and our wonderful, charming, local based guides.
We chose Vietnam for this women's wellness retreat because of its natural beauty, diverse culture and traditional healing practices. In our minds, Vietnam delivers all the essential elements you'll want to de-stress, starting with its natural beauty. Vietnam’s tropical climate and oceanside location create a perfect storm for plant and animal life. With its soaring mountains, deep valleys, and sky-blue oceans, it’s one of the best countries in the world for nature-lovers.
Vietnam has a long history of traditional healing practices, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, and massage. Many wellness centers in Vietnam offer these services, allowing visitors to experience the healing power of these ancient practices. And its wellness resorts, offering zen gardens, azure pools, outstanding food and spa treatments.
One of the best ways to familiarize yourself with Vietnamese culture is through its cuisine, which is why we include a cooking class to this wellness week. Vietnamese cuisine is known for its use of fresh, healthy ingredients, such as herbs, vegetables, and seafood. In your immersive cooking class with one of Anantara's executive chefs, you'll learn the secrets of creating authentic and delicious Vietnamese cuisine including pho, banh mi, and spring rolls, using fresh ingredients and traditional techniques. Chef will share tips and tricks for getting the perfect flavor and texture, as well as insights into Vietnamese culture and cuisine.
One evening, you'll visit a Vietnamese pagoda to learn more about Buddhism and experience a meditation session with Buddhist monks. The serene surroundings of the pagoda and the tranquil atmosphere that permeates the sacred space will greet you, while the beautiful architecture, statues and decorations tell stories of Vietnamese history and culture. Then you'll be invited to sit with the Buddhist monks and enjoy a hot pot of tea and discuss the principles of Buddhism and the significance of meditation. The monks will share their knowledge and expertise with us, answering our questions about their spiritual practice before leading us through a meditation session. They will guide us through the process of focusing on our breathing and relaxing our mind and body. As you sit in quiet contemplation, you'll be able to connect with nature and within yourself, experiencing a sense of peace and calm that is hard to find in our busy modern world.
Explore the full itinerary to see that's in store for you in the Vietnam Wellness Week!
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Tip: Pair this retreat with the Northern Vietnam Trail Running + Wellness Retreat and save $600! Click here to register.______________________________
Vietnamese food is world-famous for its fresh variety of ingredients, as well as a rich layered history of Cham, Chinese and French influences. Each region also boasts its own specialties, inviting endless discovery. In this immersive cooking class with one of Anantara's executive chefs, you'll learn the secrets of creating authentic and delicious Vietnamese cuisine including pho, banh mi, and spring rolls, using fresh ingredients and traditional techniques. Chef will share tips and tricks for getting the perfect flavor and texture, as well as insights into Vietnamese culture and cuisine. After the lesson, you'll get to enjoy the delicious food you just prepared! Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a complete beginner, this Vietnamese cooking class is the perfect way to expand your culinary horizons and impress your friends and family with your newfound skills.
During your stay at Anantara Hoi An Resort, enjoy a morning yoga class led by the lodge's wellness staff. No experience is necessary to enjoy this class, as it will feature poses designed to help you relax and stretch within your limits. Ideal for runners! This activity is optional, though highly recommended to support your running recovery and relaxation.
Stop at Hang Be market, one of the Old Quarter’s most vibrant fresh markets, with picture perfect mountains of vegetables and a rainbow of tropical fruits. Next dive into a nearby alley and settle down with some Bun Ca and Ca Cuon (noodles with fried fish and fried fish cakes) served with or without soup and plenty of fresh vegetables. You’ll continue on to one of Hanoi’s most famous food streets where you can take your pick from a delightful assortment of Vietnamese cuisine. Finish the day with an egg coffee- a quintessential Hanoi specialty with a fascinating history.
Anantara Hoi An Resort is an ultimate destination for relaxation with personalized spa and wellness journey designed to bring balance to your mind, body, and soul. Choose from comprehensive wellness programs that are tailored to your needs. This signature spa experience included in your retreat experience draws on local wisdom, fresh ingredients, and original concoctions for moments of bliss. It includes:
Signature Massage: Revered Eastern and Western massage techniques, combined with a signature oil blend, stimulate the circulation, promote deep relaxation and restore energy flow for supreme well-being.
Green Tea Salt Scrub: Rebalance normal to oily skin with deep cleansing exfoliation and natural nourishment. Mineral-enriched sea salts sweep away dead skin cells and impurities while green tea leaves detoxify and revitalize.
Vietnamese Herbal Bath: Soak in a revitalizing bath that combines the healing power of Vietnamese herbs and the detoxifying effects of mineral sea salt to draw out toxins and impurities from the body.
One evening, you'll visit a Vietnamese pagoda to learn more about Buddhism and experience a meditation session with Buddhist monks. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by the serene surroundings of the pagoda and the tranquil atmosphere that permeates the sacred space. As I make my way through the grounds, take in the beautiful architecture, statues and decorations that tell stories of Vietnamese history and culture.
Then we'll be invited to sit with the Buddhist monks and enjoy a hot pot of tea while we discuss the principles of Buddhism and the significance of meditation. The monks will share their knowledge and expertise with us, answering our questions about their spiritual practice before leading us through a meditation session. They will guide us through the process of focusing on our breathing and relaxing my mind and body. As you sit in quiet contemplation, you'll be able to connect with nature and within yourself, experiencing a sense of peace and calm that is hard to find in our busy modern world.
After the meditation session, you'll have a newfound appreciation for the importance of mindfulness and meditation in daily life. The experience of learning from the Buddhist monks and practicing meditation in the tranquil setting of the pagoda will be a transformative experience that may stay with you for many years to come.
Thien Mu Pagoda (namely Heaven Fairy Lady Pagoda), also known as Linh Mu Pagoda, is one of the most fascinating and ancient pagoda in Hue city. It is situated on Ha Khe hill, on the north bank of the Perfume River. The pagoda's name derives from an ancient legend about an old woman who appeared on the hill where the pagoda stands today, telling local people that a Lord would come and build a Buddhist pagoda for the country’s prosperity. Lord Nguyen Hoang therefore ordered the construction of the pagoda the “Heaven Fairy Lady” or Thiên Mụ in Vietnamese. While the pagoda was constructed in 1601, its most striking feature, Phuoc Duyen tower (initially called Tu Nhan tower), was erected in 1884 by King Thieu Tri, and has become the unofficial symbol of Hue. This octagonal tower has seven stories, which is dedicated to a Buddha who appeared in human form. As the tallest stupa in Vietnam, it is often the subject of folk rhymes and cadao (ballads) about Hue.
Vietnamese cuisine is a tantalizing blend of flavors, textures, and aromas that will leave your taste buds amazed. From the savory pho soups to the fresh spring rolls, Vietnamese food is a delicious explosion of flavors that will have you coming back for more.
One of the most iconic dishes in Vietnam is pho, a hearty soup made with rice noodles and a savory broth. This dish is typically served with slices of beef or chicken, fresh herbs, and bean sprouts. The broth is what makes pho so special, as it is simmered for hours with a blend of spices like star anise, cloves, and cinnamon. The result is a rich and flavorful soup that is perfect for any time of day.
Another must-try dish in Vietnam is banh mi, a delicious sandwich that blends French and Vietnamese flavors. The bread is a crispy baguette that is filled with a variety of meats, like pork belly or grilled chicken, and topped with fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, and a spicy chili sauce. This sandwich is a perfect option if you're on the go and looking for a quick and delicious meal.
Vietnamese cuisine is also known for its fresh and healthy spring rolls. These rolls are typically made with rice paper and filled with a variety of vegetables, herbs, and proteins, like shrimp or pork. They are then dipped in a savory peanut sauce that adds a perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness. From the savory pho soups to the fresh spring rolls, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Our retreat offers daily culinary adventures, so we encourage you to be curious and open to trying new flavors!
We make every effort to accommodate your dietary preferences and restrictions. However, there are occasions when we may face limitations. You'll have a chance to indicate your specific dietary requirements in the retreat participant intake form.
Please note that alcoholic drinks are excluded, and snacks and beverages outside of meals and trail runs are not included.
No trip to Vietnam would be complete without trying the country's famous coffee. Vietnamese coffee is made with a blend of robusta and arabica beans, resulting in a strong and creamy flavor. It's typically served with sweetened condensed milk, which adds a perfect balance of sweetness to the coffee's strong flavor.
At both resorts, you'll have the opportunity to participate in the ancient art of tai chi – a “meditation in motion” – which promotes serenity through gentle movements that connect the mind and body. In Vietnamese, the words mean cultivating (tai) energy (chi), yet the derivation is said to be from the Chinese ‘t’ai chi ch’uan’ meaning supreme ultimate boxing. For thousands of years, the Vietnamese people have practiced tai chi for their physical & psychological wellbeing. It is a way of life bringing ourselves and the universe in total harmony. It can be practiced by virtually anyone regardless of age or health and no prior experience is needed to take part.
Our highly trained retreat leaders provide the space and support for you to have a potentially transformational experience. As experts in mindful leadership, she provides valuable guidance on how to be mindful on and off the trail. Here's more about what you can expect from your retreat leader:
For those feeling adventurous, join your guide in the morning to explore the roads less traveled on the back of a vintage Vespa. Navigated by an experienced driver, you will ride along the riverbank and rural countryside to areas less frequently visited by tourists. You will stop to visit the 100-year old ancestral house of Mr. Huynh Ri, and other local families, with the chance to learn how they have perfected the art of mat weaving and basket boat making using local materials. You will have a final stop at the Noi Rang Market and enjoy a panoramic view of Hoi An on your way to lunch at a local restaurant. End back at the hotel in the early afternoon.
This newly opened hotel located in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter features a spa, rooftop terrace, indoor swimming pool, fitness center, and sauna. There is a restaurant on site, serving a mix of Western and Asian cuisine, and just steps outside you will find restaurants, cafes, shopping and art galleries all within walking distance.
Pilgrimage Village Boutique Resort & Spa is ideally located in the quiet countryside in a rustic village setting surrounded by lush, tranquil gardens, yet still close the historical landmarks and the city of Hue. The resort embodies a subtle and unique combination of treasured traditional Vietnamese style and modern vibrancy. In this harmonious and soothing natural environment, enjoy delicious meals, sound sleep and a peacefulness designed to refresh your spirits and leave you feeling rejuvenated.
The Anantara Hoi An Resort is a luxurious riverside retreat surrounded by lush gardens and overlooking the Thu Bon River. This boutique hotel offers riverfront dining, blissful spa journeys, and is just steps away from the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hoi An Ancient Town, small cafes, modern galleries, and traditional tea houses.
Included in your retreat package is a round-trip 1 hour 25 minute flight from Hanoi to Da Nang International Airport that departs Hanoi on November 20 and returns on November 25, in time for your return flight home from Hanoi International Airport on November 26. The flight from Hanoi to Danang on Day 1 is scheduled to depart at 6:00 PM, so please make sure your arrival flights into Hanoi give you plenty of time to make this connection.
One of the best ways to deepen your experience with mindfulness during and after your retreat is to add the Transformational Travel Journal to your package. This co-branded journal by Run Wild Retreats in partnership with the Transformational Travel Journal provides an intentional space to write, draw, sketch and otherwise creatively express what meaning this travel experience has for you. Filled with thoughtful writing prompts, inspirational quotes and mindfulness-inspired ideas, we highly recommend using this journal to help you enhance your mindful running experience.
November 19, 2023: Upon arrival at Hanoi's Noi Bai Airport, exit the baggage claim area where a local guide will be waiting for you. Transfer to your 4-star hotel centrally located in the Hanoi's Old Quarter. The rest of your afternoon is free to explore the city on your own.
Overnight at: May de Ville Luxury Hotel & Spa (or similar 4-star centrally located hotel)
November 20, 2023: After breakfast a local guide will meet you at your hotel in a soviet-style antique jeep for a unique, open-air tour of Hanoi. Start with lunch at a local restaurant, and then continue on to see some of the city's most prominent landmarks, such as the Ho Chi Minh Complex, the One Pillar Pagoda and the 1000-year-old Temple of Literature and explore parts-unknown, riding through the maze of zigzagging backstreets, narrow alleyways and markets. You will have some additional free time in the afternoon before transfering to the airport. Your 2-day extension will end at the airport where you will meet up with the group for an early evening flight to Danang to begin your Vietnam Wellness Week.
Includes:
November 19, 2023: Upon arrival at Hanoi's Noi Bai Airport, exit the baggage claim area where a local guide will be waiting for you. Transfer to your 4-star hotel centrally located in the Hanoi's Old Quarter. The rest of your afternoon is free to explore the city on your own.
Overnight at: May de Ville Luxury Hotel & Spa (or similar 4-star centrally located hotel)
November 20, 2023: After breakfast a local guide will meet you at your hotel in a soviet-style antique jeep for a unique, open-air tour of Hanoi. Start with lunch at a local restaurant, and then continue on to see some of the city's most prominent landmarks, such as the Ho Chi Minh Complex, the One Pillar Pagoda and the 1000-year-old Temple of Literature and explore parts-unknown, riding through the maze of zigzagging backstreets, narrow alleyways and markets. You will have some additional free time in the afternoon before transfering to the airport. Your 2-day extension will end at the airport where you will meet up with the group for an early evening flight to Danang to begin your Vietnam Wellness Week.
Includes:
** This shared room option for the extension is only available for two friends traveling together. If you are traveling solo, please select the private room package option.
Vietnam 
