Vietnam is a land of bustling cities, fascinating culture and mouthwatering cuisine, there’s no denying it’s one of Southeast Asia’s most compelling destinations. Stretching around 1,650 kilometres from north to south, this vibrant nation is blessed with fantastically diverse landscapes and attractions, drawing travellers both young and old, budget and luxury, to its balmy shores.
Hanoi
Vietnam’s charming capital Hanoi can be found in the north. Known as the ‘Paris of the Orient’, this buzzing metropolis combines French Colonial architecture and tree-lined avenues with a thriving Old Quarter and colourful street markets. All of which can be explored by cyclo, the city’s quintessential mode of transport. But leaving the hustle and bustle behind and heading to the coast, you’ll discover the jewel in Vietnam’s scenic crown. A breathtaking natural wonder, Halong Bay features towering limestone peaks and jungle-clad islets that rise from emerald coloured waters. Visitors sail amongst the landscape aboard traditional wooden junk boats, with accommodation onboard allowing you to spend a night amidst this spellbinding scenery.
Central Vietnam
Travel down the coast and you’ll find several alluring cities situated in central Vietnam, each with their own character and charms. Whereas former imperial capital Hue offers top sights, with its elaborate palaces, regal tombs and peaceful temples, enchanting port town Hoi An has a quieter appeal. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town is brimming with delightful architecture displaying Vietnam’s diverse cultural legacy. Chinese temples and French colonial merchant houses can be found alongside a host of local markets and the iconic Japanese Bridge. This beguiling destination is also well-known for its shopping, thanks to its famed silk lanterns and affordable tailor-made clothing.
Ho Chi Minh City and Southern Vietnam
Head further south still and you’ll arrive at Ho Chi Minh City, otherwise known as Saigon. A confluence of old and new Vietnam, the city mixes sleek skyscrapers and designer malls with ornate temples and classic French architecture. And for those looking to gain insight into the country’s more recent history, there could be no better place. Ho Chi Minh played a pivotal role in the Vietnam War and is home to both the sobering War Remnants Museum and immense Cu Chi tunnel network.
Southern Vietnam also boasts the watery world of the Mekong Delta. Famous for its abundant harvests, the delta is often referred to as the ‘rice bowl’ of Vietnam. Its fertile landscape is crisscrossed by a maze of rivers and canals, with boats, houses and even whole markets floating upon their waters. Cai Rang Floating Market of Can Tho is the biggest of them all, with hundreds of locals trading fresh fruits and vegetables from traditional sampan boats. One of the many unique experiences this captivating country has to offer.
Ready to go?
Speak to your Vision Travel Advisor and take advantage of On the Go Tours’ 2 for 1 sale on their Very Vietnam Tour.