Reasons to Visit Vietnam
There is so much more to do in Vietnam than just the odd city tour and museum. Kite making in Hue, a fisherman eco-tour in Hoi An, an educational talk in Hanoi, cycling through the rice terraces of Sapa - there are many wonderful ways to see the country, experience its culture and meet its people.
Famous for the Vietnam War, you can of course visit the War Remnants Museum and the Cu Chi tunnels in Saigon. However, the country's history has many other facets to be explored such as the old merchant town of Hoi An or the imperial city of Hue. The imprints of the former foreign rules of the Chinese and French are present wherever you go from iconic buildings to everyday life; past and present existing in harmony.
Vietnam offers great value for money from every angle. From hotels to transport to food, your US dollars or Vietnamese Dong will go far!
Vietnamese food is renowned for its freshness, bold flavours and presentation. It is an integral part of the local culture and each region has its own unique and wonderful dishes. This part of Southeast Asia is undoubtedly one of the best places in the world to eat. And if you want to learn the art of Vietnamese cooking yourself, there are also a number of fantastic cooking courses for you to enjoy.
The people of Vietnam are among the friendliest you will ever meet. They are also extremely resilient having survived foreign invasions by the Chinese and French, as well as famine and war with their cultural identity remaining intact. You only have to witness the National Flag Raising ceremony in Ba Dinh Square, Hanoi to witness a nation united not simply by patriotism, but by a very strong sense of community and respect.
From the UNESCO site of Halong Bay with its thousands of limestone outcrops to the Tonkinese Alps and lush green rice terraces of Sapa, Vietnam offers an abundance of stunning scenery and landscapes. Besides natural assets, there are plenty of other man-made photo opportunities such as the colourful floating markets of the Mekong Delta and the bustling streets of the Old Quarter in Hanoi.
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Southeast Asia
This romantic city is the best place to experience the country’s imperial past. Other highlights include the atmospheric tunnels at Vinh Moc and the battle site of Khe Sanh.
Located near the ancient citadel in a peaceful suburb of Hue the Y Thao cooking school is a truly unique way to learn more about Vietnamese cuisine and of course lend a hand in creating a culinary masterpiece.
During a two-hour journey upriver you can first explore Thien Mu Pagoda, a serene and picturesque landmark which is also an important Buddhist site.
Situated not far from Ming Mang's Tomb outside Hué sits an old pagoda which has become one of the best orphanages in central Vietnam. Run by nuns, the Duc Son Pagoda and Orphanage...
Crossing to the north bank of the Perfume River, you will enter the imposing moated Citadel, built by Emperor Gia Long in 1804.
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Further reading:Tours in VietnamWhen to GoHighlightsItinerary IdeasPlaces to GoThings to DoAccommodationAbout VietnamCountry Guides
Other countries in Southeast Asia:BorneoBurmaCambodiaIndonesiaLaosMalaysiaPapua New GuineaThailandThe Philippines
