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 has a tropical climate with average temperatures ranging from 22°C to 27°C. The wet season runs from May to October, bringing hot, humid days and frequent rainfall. The dry season, from November to April, offers cooler, more pleasant weather ideal for travel. Keep in mind that weather can vary significantly across regions—northern Vietnam experiences cooler winters, southern Vietnam remains warm year-round, and coastal and mountainous areas each have distinct microclimates.
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Language: Vietnamese is the official language, with regional dialects and minority languages spoken. English, French, and Chinese may also be heard in tourist areas.
What makes it special: Vietnam enchants with a blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse landscapes. Cruise through Halong Bay, explore the colorful lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, or trek through the northern mountains where ethnic minorities preserve unique traditions. French colonial charm, bustling street markets, and an extraordinary culinary scene—from steaming pho to fresh seafood—make Vietnam a destination that excites the senses.
Social customs: Vietnamese people are known for their warmth and curiosity. Personal questions are common and should not be taken as impolite and courtesy and humility are valued. Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly, remove shoes before entering homes or temples, and show respect for elders and cultural norms.
