Vietnam
Land of Enchantment
Vietnam has an irresistible charm that captivates tourists from around the globe. Its unique blend of old and new, tradition and modernity, makes it a fascinating destination. In the north, the traditional and historic city of Hanoi stands in contrast to the dynamic and cosmopolitan Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) in the south. Central Vietnam boasts treasures like the ancient former imperial capital, Hue, where the remnants of a bygone era, complete with stories of concubines and eunuchs, still linger in the air. Throughout the country, the landscape is adorned with the picturesque green patchwork of rice paddies, stretching into the distance. Here, the tranquil scene is interrupted only by the silhouette of water buffalo and farmers wearing iconic conical hats, toiling under the sun. But Vietnam's allure goes beyond its natural beauty; it lies in its rich tapestry of history, culture, and warm hospitality, leaving an indelible mark on all who visit.
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Highlights
The "Xe Om"
Vietnam boasts one of the world's most unique traffic phenomena: the "Xe Om" or motorcycle taxi culture, where locals offer rides on their motorbikes for a small fee. This informal transportation system is not only a convenient mode of travel but also a fascinating glimpse into the country's social fabric, fostering connections between strangers and providing insights into Vietnamese life beyond the tourist trail.
Largest Cave Passage
Vietnam's Son Doong Cave is the largest cave passage in the world, featuring its own weather system, lush vegetation, and a river. Discovered in 1991 but only explored in 2009, it offers adventurous tourists the chance to embark on multi-day expeditions through its awe-inspiring chambers and caverns, providing a once-in-a-lifetime journey deep into the heart of the earth's natural wonders.
- Exploring the bustling streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, renowned for its ancient architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
- Cruising through the limestone karsts and emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Immersing yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Hoi An, known for its well-preserved ancient town and traditional lantern-lit streets.
- Trekking amidst the terraced rice fields and ethnic minority villages of Sapa in the northern highlands.
- Sampling the diverse flavors of Vietnamese cuisine, from savory pho to crispy banh mi, in bustling street markets and local eateries.
- Discovering the historic significance of the Cu Chi Tunnels, a vast network of underground passages used during the Vietnam War.
- Soaking up the sun on the pristine beaches of Phu Quoc Island, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and serene landscapes.
- Exploring the imperial city of Hue, home to ancient citadels, ornate pagodas, and the iconic Perfume River.
- Embarking on a motorbike adventure along the Hai Van Pass, offering breathtaking coastal views between Da Nang and Hue.
- Unwinding in the tranquil countryside of Ninh Binh, where limestone cliffs, rice paddies, and ancient temples create a picturesque setting reminiscent of a bygone era.
Country Information
- Hanoi
- GMT +7
- Vietnamese Dong
- Buddhism
- 97 Million
- Vietnamese
- Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Danang, Phu Quoc
- With a tropical climate, Vietnam experiences two seasons – ‘dry’ and ‘green’. From November to April temperatures in the north, particularly in Sapa, can drop below zero while the south offers warmer days. Travel between May and October when warm, humid days with afternoon showers create a lush landscape and fewer travellers.
Essence of Vietnam & Cambodia
Embark on a one-night river cruise through the Mekong Delta, meandering along canals and engaging with local communities. Experience the delta’s beauty before taking a speedboat to the lively city of Phnom Penh. Discover Angkor Wat by torchlight on a unique tuk-tuk ride, offering a rare and enchanting view of the ancient temples. In Saigon, immerse yourself in the local culture as you explore the city’s vibrant streets aboard a traditional tuk-tuk. This journey blends scenic river cruises, historical exploration, and authentic local travel, providing a rich and diverse experience of Southeast Asia’s wonders.
Highlights of Vietnam
Explore Vietnam’s vibrant culture and history on this 9-day journey. Begin in Hanoi with a city tour, visiting Hoan Kiem Lake, the Ho Chi Minh complex, and the Temple of Literature. Cruise Halong Bay, then head to Hue to see the Imperial City and Thien Mu Pagoda. Discover Hoi An’s preserved Old Town and its unique blend of architectural influences. In Saigon, visit the Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta, experiencing local life and cuisine. Conclude with a city tour of Saigon’s landmarks before departure. Enjoy a blend of historical sights, cultural experiences, and scenic beauty.
Essence of Vietnam & Cambodia
Embark on a one-night river cruise through the Mekong Delta, meandering along canals and engaging with local communities. Experience the delta’s beauty before taking a speedboat to the lively city of Phnom Penh. Discover Angkor Wat by torchlight on a unique tuk-tuk ride, offering a rare and enchanting view of the ancient temples. In Saigon, immerse yourself in the local culture as you explore the city’s vibrant streets aboard a traditional tuk-tuk. This journey blends scenic river cruises, historical exploration, and authentic local travel, providing a rich and diverse experience of Southeast Asia’s wonders.
Essence of Vietnam & Cambodia
Embark on a one-night river cruise through the Mekong Delta, meandering along canals and engaging with local communities. Experience the delta’s beauty before taking a speedboat to the lively city of Phnom Penh. Discover Angkor Wat by torchlight on a unique tuk-tuk ride, offering a rare and enchanting view of the ancient temples. In Saigon, immerse yourself in the local culture as you explore the city’s vibrant streets aboard a traditional tuk-tuk. This journey blends scenic river cruises, historical exploration, and authentic local travel, providing a rich and diverse experience of Southeast Asia’s wonders.
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Top Places to Visit
Sapa
Located 1,500 metres above sea level in Vietnam’s remote northwest mountains, Sapa is famous for its rugged scenery, luscious rice fields and rich cultural diversity. Close to China, this picturesque town is home to many ethnic minority hill tribes, who can be seen around the town in their colourful, traditional costumes.
Ninh Binh
A short journey south of Hanoi brings you to the “Dry Halong Bay” known for its limestone hills and meandering river that takes you through three caves before unveiling a secluded valley. Your boatsmen are locals who often employ their feet for rowing. As you make your way through the waterway on a sampan, keen an eye out for plunging Kingfishers or nimble-footed mountain goats silhouetted against the skyline and rough stone.
Mekong Delta
Floating villages, green fields and sleepy villages make up this region. Though the pace of life here is laidback, the region is full of life with luscious rice paddies and fish farms being cultivated by the river, as well as sugar cane, fruit, coconut and shrimp. It is one of Asia’s most picturesque regions that offers travelers the opportunity to experience rural Vietnam and a way of life little changed over centuries.
Dalat
Dalat is a slice of Europe in the Central Highlands. It was originally the playground of the French who built villas in the clear mountain air to escape the heat and humidity of the coast and of Saigon. Dalat is still popular with locals and tourists alike for this reason, as well as the town’s landscape of colonial villas, lakes and rolling hills. Dalat’s market features locally-made specialities such as candied fruits, coffee and the finest cool climate vegetables and flowers in Vietnam.
Hanoi
The capital city of Vietnam and one of the most beautiful cities in all of Asia. Hanoi is full of history; a maze of winding, narrow, wooded lanes full of shops, taverns, bicycles, cycles and motorbikes. The city center is an architectural museum piece, its blocks of ochre buildings retaining the air of a peaceful and austere provincial town, contrary to the fast-living and bustling air of Saigon. Through several successive dynasties, it remained as the country’s capital city, the heart and soul of the whole nation.
Hue
Situated directly on the atmospheric Perfume River, Hue is without doubt one of Vietnam’s most historic cities. This former Royal Capital is full of temples, pagodas, palaces, tombs and culture. Hue became Vietnam’s first World Cultural Heritage site recognized by UNESCO in 1993.
Phan Thiet / Mui Ne
Often overlooked by travelers, Mui Ne is a charming beach town and a paradise for kite surfers! Centered along one main road are a vast array of international and local seafood restaurants, bars and beach clubs. Phan Thiet is located 200km from Saigon along Vietnam’s southeastern coast; it is home to one of the best stretches of beach in the country.
Saigon
Vietnam’s largest and most up-and-coming city, buzzing with activity 24 hours per day! French colonial buildings and historic landmarks and museums are highlights of this rapidly developing city. The city is crammed full of restaurants and bars ranging from simple pavement stalls where you can buy a bowl of noodles for a few cents to sophisticated restaurants serving fine European cuisine at a fraction of the price you would pay in Europe.
Halong Bay
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is considered by many to be one of the Natural Wonders of the World, and for good reason. Over 2,000 magnificent limestone karsts rise from the clear, emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin, making for a truly picturesque scene.
Danang
Vietnam’s third largest city, and largest major port city, Danang is an ideal base to explore the nearby Old Town of Hoi An, or historic former royal capital of Hue. Located directly on the coast, Danang boasts some of Vietnam’s most beautiful beaches and beach-side hotel resorts.
Hoi An
This quaint riverside town was once the principal port of the Cham Kingdom. Beautiful, steeped in history and culture, this UNESCO World Heritage Town is very popular with visitors to Vietnam. Hoi An has retained a distinct Chinese atmosphere with low, tile-roofed houses and narrow streets. The original structure of some of these streets remains intact. All the houses were made of rare wood, decorated with lacquered boards and panels engraved with Chinese characters; pillars were also carved with ornamental designs.
Phu Quoc
Surely the most beautiful island in Vietnam, Phu Quoc is surrounded by picture-perfect white sand beaches and with dense, impenetrable jungle in the center. Long Beach is refined, Ong Lan Beach romantic, and Bai Sao simply irresistible. It takes about 40 minutes by plane from Saigon to reach the “pearl island” where you can enjoy both sun and steam baths, then climb to caves or take tours to forests where you can enjoy the nature and wildlife.
