Vietnam has rapidly become one of Southeast Asia’s most popular and rewarding destinations to travel to. Offering attractions that appeal to all interests and traveler types, this long, thin coastal destination has it all. Whether seeking an unforgettable family holiday, a relaxing retreat or an adventurous trip away, Vietnam has the destinations, infrastructure and sheer variety to accommodate.
Starting from the south, Vietnam’s Mekong Delta region is an adventure in and of itself. A veritable waterworld, life thrives off the Mekong River’s canals and small waterways, where boats, homes, markets and transportation live a water-bound existence. Lush farms and fruit orchards line the water’s edges and hidden towns and cities make for exciting and entirely unique visits. Producing the majority of the country’s produce, a visit to the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam is a glimpse into its heart and soul.
Further up the coast from the bustling Mekong region is one of Vietnam’s most famous destinations, offering the country’s most contemporary, cosmopolitan experience. Ho Chi Minh City, a metropolis of nearly 10 million, is a thrilling visit boasting all types of extremes. Budget hostels are offset by world-class, five-star hotels, delicious and cheap street eats are counterbalanced by sumptuous gourmet restaurants, ancient alleys look up to modern skyscrapers and an innumerable amount of attractions can be found all throughout the cities districts. One of the easiest points of international access, a visit to Ho Chi Minh City is an absolute must when traveling to Vietnam.
Dotting up the coast, travelers will find a huge variety of visits, from the lush, inland attractions of the mountain town of Dalat (great for adventure travelers) to the coastal beach escapes of Vung Tau, Phan Thiet, Mui Ne and Nha Trang. Travelers will revel in the warm climates and clean beaches/waters of coastal Vietnam, leading all the way up to the cultural heartland that is Central Vietnam.
For those seeking an equal dose of culture and history with their tropical beach escapes, the central area of Hoi An, Danang and Hue is the spot to visit. Each destination has its own fascinating history, from Hoi An’s countryside and ancient town to Hue’s forbidden city and royal roots. Danang is rapidly becoming its own worthwhile visit with some of the country’s best beaches, tastiest seafood spots and cool, modern attractions.
Spanning all the way to the north, visitors will find plenty of things to do between Hanoi, Halong Bay and the northern reaches of Sapa. The capital city of Hanoi has some of the country’s most fascinating history and culture, as well as some excellent cuisine, accommodation and shopping. To the east sits the UNESCO-protected Halong Bay with its iconic limestone islets, and to the north sits the mesmerizing hill tribe visits of Sapa and Ha Giang. The best part about Vietnam? The rest of the country is organically developing, and many more of its lesser-known parts are becoming great places to visit as well (offering unique, off-piste experiences.)