Vietnam is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends exotic cuisine, warm hospitality, French colonial heritage, stunning limestone islands, and beautiful beaches. Highlights include the charming town of Hoi An, where visitors can have custom-made clothing tailored, and the iconic Halong Bay, best explored on a cruise aboard a traditional junk boat. The Mekong Delta offers a different perspective, with serene journeys on a Bassac Boat through its winding waterways. With its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Vietnam enchants visitors, leaving a lasting impression of its natural beauty and timeless charm.
Halong Bay: Situated in the Gulf of Tonkin, boasts an otherworldly landscape with over 1,600 islands and islets that create a mesmerizing seascape of limestone pillars and awe-inspiring caves. These islands, predominantly made of limestone and schist, feature unique formations of graceful and intriguing shapes. The entire area is now designated as a World Heritage site, preserving its natural beauty.
Hanoi: The capital city of Vietnam, boasts wide tree-lined boulevards that grace misty lakes throughout the city. Amidst this picturesque scenery, you'll find ancient temples and bustling markets. Highlights of Hanoi include the vibrant and colorful flower market, the bustling shopping haven known as the "Old Quarter," and the upscale boutiques along Nah Tho Street.
Hoi An: A destination with a dual personality, offers both the charm of an old-world trading post with narrow streets and traditional houses and the allure of pristine beaches accompanied by beautiful resorts and expansive stretches of white sand. Hoi An is a beloved place for many travellers in Vietnam. It's worth spending a few days here to soak in its enchanting atmosphere, wander along colorful lantern-adorned streets, savor delectable cuisine at fantastic restaurants, explore high-quality tailor shops, and even attend cooking schools.
Mekong Delta: This is a complex network of rivers, swamps, and islands, home to floating markets, quaint villages, and lush rice paddies. This region nurtures an incredible variety of fruits, flowers, and livestock, making it a fascinating area to explore over the course of a few days.
Saigon: Formerly known as Ho Chi Minh, is still commonly referred to as such by both locals and foreigners. This city was heavily influenced by the French during their colonial occupation, resulting in European style architecture. Today, the city's core retains its elegant boulevards and historic French colonial buildings. With a population exceeding 8 million people (and approximately 4 million motorbikes!), Saigon offers a vibrant mix of street markets, shops, sidewalk cafes, and vendors selling an array of goods along its bustling sidewalks.
Vietnam is blessed with a tropical climate that generously bestows plenty of sunshine, with average temperatures typically falling within the range of 22°C to 27°C. The climate in Vietnam is divided into two distinct seasons. From May to October, you'll encounter hot and humid days accompanied by substantial rainfall. In contrast, the period from November to April tends to be drier and slightly cooler.
It's important to note that the local climate within Vietnam exhibits variations from the northern regions to the southern parts of the country. Additionally, weather patterns differ when you move from the mountainous areas to the coastal regions, offering a diverse and dynamic climate experience.
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Language: The official language is Vietnamese, with different dialects apparent throughout the country. A host of various languages particular to ethnic minorities are also spoken, as well as Chinese, English and French to a lesser degree.
What makes it special: Vietnam captivates with its rich history, from elegant French colonial architecture to bustling markets and serene lakes. The country offers unforgettable experiences, from cruising Halong Bay on a traditional junk and enjoying fresh seafood by the ocean to exploring the northern mountains, home to diverse ethnic groups with unique cultural traditions. Hoi An is a must-visit, especially during its monthly full moon Festival of Light, when the town glows with vibrant lanterns and lively celebrations. Combined with its incredible culinary scene, Vietnam is a destination that delights at every turn.
Weather: Vietnam enjoys a tropical climate generously bathed in sunshine, with average temperatures ranging from 22°C to 27°C. The country experiences two distinct seasons: May to October brings hot, humid days accompanied by ample rainfall, while November to April is generally drier and slightly cooler. Be mindful that the local climate exhibits variations from north to south, and weather patterns diverge in the mountainous areas compared to the coastal regions.
Social customs: The Vietnamese people are known for their exceptional friendliness and outgoing nature. Be prepared for numerous personal questions and comments about various aspects of your life. While this may seem forthright, the Vietnamese themselves often possess a quiet reserve, so it's best to allow the conversation to be guided by the person with whom you are speaking. It's essential to understand that their curiosity is not meant to be rude, even when it comes to topics like your weight. Given their strong work ethic, the Vietnamese are an industrious and hardworking nation. Public displays of anger are generally frowned upon, so a gracious smile will prove far more effective than showing temper in most situations.
