Boasting its lengthy coastline, gastronomic delights, and diverse natural and cultural resources, Vietnam has recently risen as a popular destination for those wanting to explore South East Asia. Each part of the country offers different vistas and experiences, ensuring a beautiful variety of stimulating adventures for every traveler.
Come up north and visit Vietnam’s bustling capital city of Hanoi and explore the Old Quarter. Mingle with the locals in this neighborhood, which is lined with shops and buildings where you can find old Vietnamese architecture, ancient streets, and delicious local cuisine. Hanoi is where you’ll also see a multitude of motorcycles on the road and sidewalks, something that the country’s famous for as it’s the primary mode of transportation for the Vietnamese. You can also hop on a bus and join one of the many boat tours to see Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Boat tours around the bay typically offer a lunch buffet as you cruise around the towering limestone rocks.
Down along the coast of central Vietnam is where Da Nang is located, famous for its beautiful beaches and as a jump off point for the old imperial city of Hue and the ancient town of Hoi An. Travelers can stay at a hotel overlooking the beaches of Da Nang, and enjoy a day-long trip to see the Golden Bridge and one the longest cable cars in the world at Ba Na Hills. Spend a few nights at the neighboring city of Hoi An, where you can ride the viral spinning basket boats in the morning and release lanterns on the river at night. Don’t forget to visit the imperial city of Hue and dress in Vietnam's traditional wear, ao dai, to explore the citadel (the ao dai you can rent in Hue is a bit different from the ao dai we normally know as it’s the old or traditional version, which was eventually simplified into its current look!).
Finish your trip down south in Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) to see Vietnam’s most populous city and its economic center. Learn about the country’s wartime history at the Independence Palace and Cu Chi Tunnels, go for Vietnamese coffee at the Cafe Apartments, and walk around historic Ho Chi Minh Square, Ben Thanh Market, and Saigon Square to shop ‘til you drop.
Don’t forget to try local dishes wherever you are in the country! Each region has their own spin on local dishes, but don’t forget to try Vietnamese coffee, Banh Mi, Pho, Bo Bun Hue, Banh Xeo, and Vietnamese spring rolls to name a few. Ask locals or hotel staff where their favourite stalls are and eat like a local on low stools on the sidewalks.
There is plenty to explore around the diverse country of Vietnam and it’s always worth taking a trip back to see more of what the country has to offer! Spend your first private group tour at these romantic destinations and enjoy Vietnam. You’ll want to keep coming back!