Vietnam
Geographically and ethnically diverse, Vietnam is many things – exciting, picturesque, infuriating, noisy, unpredictable, chaotic, charming and friendly, often all in the same day. It’s a rewarding destination to visit but also a challenging one, and that’s where a good local tour operator comes in handy.
Whatever you’re looking for in a holiday, Vietnam has it. Spectacular mountain scenery in the far north and the Central Highlands; vibrant cities that embody the exotic spirit of Asia; laid back resorts on palm-fringed beaches; a mix of religions and cultures; dozens of very different regional cuisines; French colonial architecture; bustling markets, both on land and water; plenty of sporting activities including diving, kitesurfing, biking and some of Asia’s best golf courses; and people whose smiles and enthusiasm will live long in the memory.
Here’s our selection of the best places to visit, along with some suggested programmes and ideas…
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Originally established by the French as a cool mountain getaway from the heat of Saigon, Dalat remains a popular tourist spot, with its mix of historical charm, mountain scenery, its picturesque lake and one of the country’s finest golf courses. |
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If Vietnam can be said to have one marquee attraction, one place you simply must not miss, then Halong Bay is it. Almost 2000 limestone islands set in over 1500km2 of scenic bay, it is a genuinely stunning, breathtaking place and is currently in contention for Natural Wonder of the World status. An overnight junk cruise is the best way to experience Halong – but make sure you book the right boat as there are a LOT of cowboy operators around! |
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Vietnam’s capital is a captivating mix of old-world colonial charm and Asian bustle. Its charismatic Old Quarter, nestling on the shores of Hoan Kiem Lake, is the main draw for visitors – a dense network of narrow streets & alleyways housing hundreds of shops, restaurants & bars – while peaceful West Lake is an oasis of calm from the noise of the city centre. |
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The former colonial city of Saigon is now the symbol of the new, modern Vietnam, with a growing number of skyscrapers towering over old shophouses and street hawkers pushing their carts past designer boutiques and international restaurants. HCMC may be short on aesthetic appeal but it’s long on excitement with plenty of things to see & do during the day, and endless eating & drinking options at night. |
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The UNESCO World Heritage site of Hoi An attracts more repeat visitors than anywhere else in Vietnam, and it’s not hard to see why. An immaculately preserved 16th century trading port, Hoi An sits on the Thu Bon river and boasts countless historic buildings as well as plenty of shops, some lovely boutique hotels, and a unique local cuisine all its own. And there’s even a superb beach just 15 minutes out of town. |
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Formerly Vietnam’s imperial capital, Hue is a quiet provincial city located on the Perfume River, its imperial past evident in its citadel, Imperial City, royal mausoleums and Thien Mu pagoda. It’s also a great spot for visiting the DMZ area (including the Moc Ba tunnel complex, a more authentic alternative to Cu Chi), scenic Lang Co and the Hai Van Pass, Bach Ma National Park, and Thuan An beach. |
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Want spectacular scenery, great trekking/cycling, and ethnic hilltribe villages, but don’t have time to go as far as Sapa? Mai Chau is the place for you! Less than 4 hours south of Hanoi & located in a stunning valley, Mai Chau is home to many ethnic Thai communities who live on farming and, increasingly, homestays. The colourful Sunday market draws in tribespeople from all over the region and is a most colourful sight. |
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The Ricebowl of Vietnam is an extraordinary patchwork of waterways, rice paddies, fruit orchards and small riverside towns inhabited by some of the friendliest people in the country. With most tour operators focusing on the unremarkable towns of Vinh Long & My Tho, the rest of the region is ripe for off-the-beaten-track exploring. |
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Around 4 ½ hours’ drive from HCMC, Mui Ne is a very popular beach destination for tourists and resident expats alike, a scenic strip of beach lined with low-rise bungalow-style resorts and a great selection of bars & restaurants. |
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Big, bold & brash, Nha Trang is Vietnam’s most popular beach destination, a lively seaside spot with plenty of big luxury hotels & resorts (as well as plenty of cheaper guesthouses), a big beach, a waterpark, and a wide range of local & international dining options. |
