The Best Areas to Visit in Vietnam
Vietnam is a long, narrow-shaped country, bordering China to the north, Cambodia to the west, and the Pacific Ocean to the east. Located in Southeast Asia, Vietnam is best known for its natural beauty fusing white sand beaches, sparkling rivers (most notably the Mekong), and rich landscapes sprinkled with towering mountains, alongside the cultural delights of bustling cities and peaceful hill tribe villages.
The cuisine in Vietnam is certainly part and parcel of an authentic Vietnam experience. Typical dishes you can expect include ‘Pho’ – a rice-noodle delicacy typically eaten for breakfast, prawn-loaded spring rolls, or healthy salads infused with the likes of peanuts, fresh shrimp, and lotus stems.
Wildlife fans are sure to be in their element in Vietnam. recent years, an abundance of new species of animals and plants makes a trip to one of the country’s many national parks even more of an eye-opening experience for intrigued travellers.
Top areas to visit in Vietnam
Hanoi
The capital city of Vietnam, Hanoi should certainly be on your itinerary. Founded over 1000 years ago with 14th-century medieval streets of the Old Quarter still intact to this day, you’re sure to feel as though you have stepped back in time. Sample the street food, check out the art scene or opt for a more chilled-out vibe by heading to Hoan Kiem Lake, where you can join locals in yoga sessions, aerobic classes, or even a casual morning walk.
Ho Chi Minh City
Situated in the Southeast region of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City most known as Saigon is a fast-paced city packed with cultural delights including historic temples surrounded by modern skyscrapers. While here, be sure to visit Cu Chi and Ben Dinh – a reminder of its troubled war era, as well as the Saigon Opera House and the Central Post Office which were both built during the French settlement.
Ha Long Bay
Appointed a World Heritage Site back in 1994, Ha Long Bay located in northern Vietnam is made up of 1600 islands (which are largely inhabited or unaffected by humans) producing a spectacular panorama of limestone pillars, forming caves, arches, and other erosion-generated wonders. Make your way along the bay to visit well-known sights including Cannon Fort, Cat Ba National Park, and Sunworld.
Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc located in the southern region of Vietnam is best known for its expansive lush landscapes and unscathed natural beauty and is the ideal place to visit if you’re looking to escape the bustling cities. The Phu Quoc National Park is an unmissable place for wildlife and nature lovers where you’ll be up close and personal with exotic creatures including silver langurs, otters, slow lories, long-tailed macaques, and hornbills.
If you simply want to kick back and relax during a visit to Phu Quoc, Sao beach will be right up your street. It’s one of the most visited beaches on the island thanks to its white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise ocean. Look closely, and you may even spot starfish wandering along the shoreline each night.
Hoi An
Located on Vietnam’s central coast, H?i An was once Vietnam’s imperial capital. It is well-known for its well-preserved ancient town including temples, tombs, and its wistful old town – the latter of which is a stark reminder of the trading port it once was dating back to the 15th century. Explore the amazing sights of the city by hopping on a bicycle and heading to key sights including the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Quan Cong Temple. Come evening time, venture to the night market where you’ll come across an array of goods including Vietnamese food and quality tailoring.