Vietnam is quickly becoming one of the most desired destinations for tourists around the globe. From its rich history and culture to beautiful nature and welcoming people, this Southeast Asian country really has a lot to offer to anyone who comes for a visit. Depending on what your ideal vacation is, you can pick and choose different tours and options and create your own perfect package through which you can get to know this majestic country. In this article, you will find some great ideas you can add to your trip itinerary. Pack your bags and let’s start!
The beautiful Saigon
The top of our list of must-visit places in Vietnam is definitely the amazing Ho Chi Minh City, more widely known as Saigon. It is a city where the East meets the West, a combination of eastern architecture and remains of French colonialism, so don’t be surprised that you can find the Notre-Dame Cathedral, constructed entirely with materials imported from France, on your sights-to-see lists. Now, there are many different ways of exploring this beautiful city, and a lot of different things to do in Saigon. One of the most popular options are the fun and educational motorbike tours with knowledgeable local guides. Motorbikes are one of the most popular means of transport in Vietnam, so taking this type of tour will help you have a more authentic experience. Also, visiting sights like The Central Post Office, one of the remaining buildings from the French colonial period, or the Ho Thi Ky Flower Market, is made easier and more interesting with a smaller group, so that you get a much more immersive experience.
Cruising the Mekong Delta
Just imagine, upon traveling more than 4,000 kilometers from the Tibetan Himalaya, the majestic Mekong enters Vietnam and starts slowing down. As if it wants to soak in the landscape rich in small stilted villages where the way of life that hasn’t changed for centuries. If you want a more authentic experience, you can always catch a ride on one of the cargo ships frequenting this river. You can lay back, and simply enjoy the peace and quiet along with some breathtaking views of the riverbank. Now, if you prefer a more modern approach, you can always book some cruises offered to tourists. Most of these include a nighttime option that allows you to discover a whole new world settled along the riverbanks.
Ready for some caving?
It would be a shame to visit this great country and not take the time to explore one of the world’s largest caves. Hang Son Doong is located in the Quang Binh province, region of untouched wilderness and barely penetrable jungle, close to the border with Laos. The whole province is full of hundreds of deep caves and the in the center of it all is the small town of Phong Nha where you can rent out all the necessary gear and hire guides to take you exploring. The name "Son Doong" means "mountain river cave", and this majestic cave was created 2-5 million years ago by river water eroding away the limestone underneath the mountain. The cave contains a cavern that is so tall it could fit an entire skyscraper. Being able to explore such a wonder is truly a unique experience and one you shouldn’t miss out on.
Finally, leave some room for the fantastic Vietnamese cuisine
Rich and flavorful Vietnamese cuisine is something you don’t want to overlook. Whether you prefer dining in fancy restaurants, or getting your food, like the locals, from numerous street vendors there one dish you need to include on your travel menu. The famous Pho, a quick, tasty meal containing four simple ingredients: clear stock, boiled beef, rice noodles, and herbs or green onions. This is a staple dish for Vietnamese people, and you will find it is served everywhere and is incredible no matter where you eat it. Of course, every restaurant and street vendor will tell you that they have their secret recipe that you simply have to try. You can be the judge where the best Pho in Vietnam is.
This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the wonders this amazing country has to offer. All that is left is to get your ticket and make Vietnam your next destination. Safe travels!
One of the country i want to visit in the future too 😊