Ariel Frager/Travel + Leisure

I didnt mean to hire a Vietnamese travel agency to plan our three-week family adventure.

“No way, I always make my own arrangements, I thought.

When I was initially beginning to plan a familytrip to Vietnam, I texted my friend Andrea Fleming.

Kayaking in Ha Long Bay

Credit:Ariel Frager/Travel + Leisure

She recommended Blue Asia Tours, the agency that all the local international teachers use for their travels.

My email correspondence with Quang Hoa, the owner of Blue Asia Tours, refined our itinerary.

Co-creating the trip with Blue Asia helped ease some of my anxiety.

Ariel Frager and family in Ha Long Bay

Ariel Frager/Travel + Leisure

I felt like a rock star.

After quick showers, we walked through the Old Quarter.

We felt the buzzy energy of the 5.2 million-strong population zipping through the busy streets.

Ariel Frager and family on Ha Long Bay

Ariel Frager/Travel + Leisure

Introducing our son to Asia was a major impetus for our trip.

While he was excited to be there, my mama-radar told me that food was imperative.

Our tour hadnt started yet, so we were on our own for lunch.

Sapa rice terrace and family in Ninh Binh

Ariel Frager/Travel + Leisure

It was so hot, and we were all tired and just couldnt decide where to eat.

Finally, we noticed a com ga hai nam' shop filled with local diners.

We were familiar with the traditional chicken and rice dish, and our crankiness lessened with each bite.

Trekking in Sapa Rice Terrace

Ariel Frager/Travel + Leisure

Rosie assured me we would have a great time and said I could text her anytime.

I didnt know what to expect from our trip.

When we finally arrived at our homestay in the mountain village, my husband was waiting for us.

Chi Chi tunnel opening

Ariel Frager/Travel + Leisure

He said the smiles on our faces, despite being drenched, lit up the rain-soaked sky.

Hangry-fueled intra-family squabbling ceased because so many meals were included in our tour; no decisions were required.

Private drivers minded our luggage on travel days that included en-route tours, complete with English-speaking guides.

We were grateful to share the crystal-clear waters and secret Sunday picnic spot with the local families.

I didnt have to do anything.

No phone calls, no emails, no checking the status of our reservations.

All we had to do was show up in our hotel lobby on time.

We just flowed through Vietnam, trusting Blue Asia and enjoying the moments rather than controlling them.

It turns out that not having to make any decisions was the best travel decision I have ever made.