Flights to Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh Province from NT$5,175

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Hoa Lu could be completely painless or it could go on forever. We've put together some useful tips that will help you start your unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, put in your passport, important documents, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling novel and a phone filled with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you plan to catch more than just forty winks, a neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you touchdown feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable goods, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and opt for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

It's easy — be prepared. We've pulled together some useful tips for a hassle-free trip through security. Look out Hoa Lu, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Items like your jacket, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics must also be sent through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.