Vietnam. The natural beauty and cultural variety of Vietnam are astoundingly diverse. The country of Vietnam has a long history and a multicultural population that includes more than 50 ethnic minority groups, which makes travel there rich in cultural heritage. The scenic beauty ranges from mountain peaks seen from hillsides to beautiful green rice fields coloured with every shade of green. Outdoor enthusiasts may savour the countryside at one of the many national parks, in which hiking, bicycling, and kayaking are common activities.
The larger cities hum with the urban lifestyle and provide plenty of opportunities to bite into Vietnam’s delectable culinary delights, while the rural regions are filled with magnificent landscapes. This fascinating nation is one of Southeast Asia’s most underrated travel destinations and is full of surprises.
Here are some hotspots to explore!
- The Iconic Halong Bay
Halong Bay’s limestone coastline is one of the top sites in the world to visit for breath-taking sea scenery and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This harbour in the Gulf of Tonkin has thousands of limestone islets that have been worn over millennia by wind and water into sharp pinnacles. This is an ideal cruising region since a boat is the finest way to view the bay’s splendour. To truly see Halong Bay’s famous sights, choose at least one overnight vacation because a day trip falls short. The Hang Sung Sot, which has three enormous caverns, and the Hang Dao Go, which has incredibly bizarre stalactites and stalagmites, are only two of the many caves in the bay that may be accessed.
However, for the majority of travellers, the pleasure is just driving through the karsts and taking in the ever-changing view of the pinnacles as you go.
- The Long Mekong Delta
The enormous Mekong River ultimately reaches the sea in the deep south of Vietnam through a network of channels that connect the riverbank. The delta is among the most fascinating places for tourists to explore. It is incredibly green, full of mangroves and paddy field panoramas, and full of vibrant local life. It also has chaotic floating marketplaces that may be explored by boat. Can Tho is the most well-liked place to start off from because it’s near to the floating marketplaces of Phong Dien and Cai Rang, and boat rides from Ca Mau let you visit the Cau Mau Nature Reserve and U Minh Mangrove Forest.
- Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon City)
For those who enjoy big cities, no trip to Vietnam would be complete without stopping at Ho Chi Minh City, the bustling economic centre of the nation. The restaurant and café industry is tremendously diverse, the streets are insanely congested with motorbikes and automobiles, and the shopping is among the greatest in the nation. The majority of the city’s attractions are concentrated in Dong Khoi, the district’s core area, which is compact and simple to navigate. The Ho Chi Minh (HCMC) Museum, which houses an excellent collection of objects that tell the history of the city. Visit more historical museums to learn more about Vietnam’s extensive past.
- The Capital City – Hanoi
The frantic capital of Vietnam is both a confusing and alluring site for visitors. It is the beating heart of the country. Some tourists may find the motorcycle craze, smog, and continual clamour of street sellers to be too much, but Hanoi is the destination to go if you want to experience Vietnamese city life. The old town area has lots of decaying charm, and history buffs should come here just to visit the many top-notch museums.
- The Cu Chi Tunnels
The Cu Chi Tunnels are a vast tunnel network used during the Vietnam War, stretching over more than 250 kilometres, allowing Viet Cong soldiers to operate and communicate in the land surrounding Ho Chi Minh City. It is an absolutely fascinating experience for all tourists, not just those interested in Vietnam’s history. A guide can take you into two brief areas of the network’s confined spaces, which are obviously not suitable for anyone who are claustrophobic. At times, you’ll have to practically crawl on your hands and knees. Either Ben Dinh village, which is the more popular option, or Ben Duoc village provide access to the tunnels.
- Nha Trang and its Beaches
Nha Trang reigns supreme in Vietnam when it comes to beach fun. The six-kilometre-long, pristine beach stretches along the waterfront of the city of Nha Trang, where local families on vacation and international tourists alike congregate in the summer. Excellent swimming waters, dedicated swimming areas, and well-kept relaxation spaces make this a terrific choice for leisurely days in the sun and sand. Up north of the city lies the historic Po Nagar Cham Towers, which have been used as a house of worship there since the 7th century. A great place to visit after the beach.
- Hoi An
Hoi Ani is a charming city in Vietnam which has the greatest preserved traditional architecture nationwide. When Hoi An was a significant meeting place for Japanese and Chinese merchants who came for the local silks in the 15th century, the old town area was a delight to visit since it was crammed full of well-preserved merchant buildings. The charming Japanese Bridge, which is located at the western end of Tran Phu Street, serves as the main landmark of Hoi An. Close by, the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation is the most artistically designed temple in the old town. The town is also well known for its diverse delicacies and meals from its cultural exchange in the past.
