Vietnam, famously known as the land of the “Ascending Dragon ” for its geographical shape on the world map is a country located in Southeast Asia with a rich and complex history. The country was ruled by China for over a thousand years until it gained independence in the 10th century. In the 19th century, it became a French colony known as French Indochina, which lasted until the mid-20th century. During the 20th century, Vietnam was the site of a long and devastating war between communist forces led by the North Vietnamese government and the United States and its allies. The war ended in 1975 with the reunification of the country under communist rule.
Today, Vietnam is a rapidly developing country with a population of over 97 million people. Its economy has grown significantly in recent years, driven by manufacturing and tourism. The country is known for its beautiful landscapes, delicious cuisine, and rich culture, which includes traditional music and dance, festivals, and religious practices.
Best Time to Travel Vietnam
The best time to travel to Vietnam depends on which part of the country you plan to visit and what activities you have in mind. Generally speaking, the best time to visit Vietnam is during its dry season, which runs from November to April.
In the northern part of Vietnam, including Hanoi and Halong Bay, the best time to visit is from October to April when the weather is cool and dry. From May to September, the region experiences hot and humid weather with occasional heavy rainfall.
In central Vietnam, including Hoi An and Danang, the best time to visit is from February to May when the weather is dry and temperatures are pleasant. The region experiences heavy rainfall from September to December.
In southern Vietnam, including Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, the dry season runs from December to April, with hot and humid weather the rest of the year. The region experiences occasional flooding during the rainy season from May to November.
Best Places to Visit in Vietnam
Hanoi
Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam, located in the northern part of the country. It has a population of over 8 million people and is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. One of the top attractions in Hanoi is the Old Quarter, a historic district known for its narrow streets, traditional architecture, and bustling markets. The area is home to many shops, street vendors, and restaurants, and is a great place to sample Vietnamese street food.
Other popular attractions in Hanoi include Hoan Kiem Lake, a scenic lake in the heart of the city, and the Temple of Literature, a historic Confucian temple that dates back to the 11th century. Hanoi is also known for its French colonial architecture, including the iconic Opera House and the Presidential Palace. The city has several museums, including the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, the Ho Chi Minh Museum, and the Fine Arts Museum.
One of the best ways to experience Hanoi is by exploring its street culture. The city has many bustling street markets, where you can find everything from traditional handicrafts to clothing and souvenirs. You can also try street food specialties like pho, banh mi, and egg coffee, which are all popular in Hanoi.
Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay
Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay are two of the most beautiful natural wonders in Vietnam, located in the Gulf of Tonkin, in the northeastern part of the country. Both bays are known for their stunning limestone karst formations, emerald waters, and beautiful landscapes. They offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the cities, and a chance to explore the natural wonders of Vietnam.
Halong Bay is the more famous of the two bays and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s home to over 1,600 limestone islands and islets that rise from the sea, forming a breathtaking seascape. You can explore the bay on a traditional junk boat or kayak, taking in the views of the limestone formations and visiting some of the bay’s caves and grottoes.
Lan Ha Bay, on the other hand, is less crowded than Halong Bay and is known for its pristine beaches, calm waters, and beautiful scenery. It’s a great destination for kayaking, swimming, and snorkelling, and there are several small fishing villages where you can learn about the local culture and way of life.
One of the best ways to explore Halong and Lan Ha Bay is on a multi-day cruise, which allows you to see the best of both bays and experience the beauty of the region at a more leisurely pace. There are many different cruises available, from budget to luxury, so you can choose the one that best fits your preferences and budget.
Hue
Hue is a city located in central Vietnam, and it was the imperial capital of the Nguyen dynasty from 1802 to 1945. One of the top attractions in Hue is the Imperial City, a vast complex of palaces, temples, and courtyards that served as the seat of the Nguyen emperors. The Imperial City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-visit destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
Another popular attraction in Hue is the Thien Mu Pagoda, a beautiful Buddhist temple that dates back to the 17th century. The pagoda is located on the banks of the Perfume River and is known for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere.
Hue is also home to several tombs of the Nguyen emperors, including the Tomb of Tu Duc and the Tomb of Khai Dinh. These tombs are known for their beautiful architecture and stunning landscapes.
For those interested in learning more about the history and culture of Hue, there are several museums worth visiting, including the Hue Museum of Royal Fine Arts and the Museum of Antiquities. One of the best ways to explore Hue is by taking a leisurely boat ride along the Perfume River. The river is flanked by lush greenery and traditional houses, and you can see several historical sites along the way.
Hoi An
Hoi An is a small city located on the central coast of Vietnam, in the Quang Nam Province. It is known for its well-preserved Ancient Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination.
The Ancient Town of Hoi An features a mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architecture, reflecting the city’s history as a major trading port in the 15th to 19th centuries. Visitors can wander through the narrow streets lined with old shophouses, visit temples and pagodas, and see the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge.
Aside from its historical significance, Hoi An is also known for its beautiful beaches, such as An Bang Beach and Cua Dai Beach, which offer opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Hoi An is also famous for its cuisine, which blends Vietnamese, Chinese, and local flavours. Popular dishes include cao lau (noodle dish with pork and vegetables), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), and com ga (chicken rice).
Danang
Danang is a coastal city located in central Vietnam, in the Quang Nam Province. It is the fifth-largest city in Vietnam and a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and stunning landscapes.
One of the main attractions in Danang is My Khe Beach, which is a long stretch of white sand beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Other popular beaches in Danang include Non Nuoc Beach and Lang Co Beach.
Danang is also home to a number of historical and cultural sites, including the Marble Mountains, which are a group of five limestone hills that feature caves, temples, and spectacular views. Another notable attraction is the Cham Museum, which houses the world’s largest collection of Cham artefacts and provides a fascinating insight into the history and culture of this ancient civilization. The city is also famous for its cuisine, which includes specialties such as mi quang (a noodle dish with pork and vegetables), banh xeo (Vietnamese pancake), and ca kho to (caramelised fish).
Saigon
Saigon, also known as Ho Chi Minh City, is the largest city in Vietnam and a bustling metropolis that serves as the economic and cultural centre of the country. Located in southern Vietnam, it is home to a diverse population and offers visitors a mix of modern and traditional Vietnamese culture.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Saigon is the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, which is a beautiful example of French colonial architecture. Another must-visit site is the Cu Chi Tunnels, which are a network of underground tunnels that were used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War.
Saigon is also known for its vibrant street life, with bustling markets such as Ben Thanh Market and Binh Tay Market offering a variety of goods, from food and clothing to souvenirs and handicrafts. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Vietnamese cuisine at street food stalls and local restaurants, with popular dishes including pho (noodle soup with beef or chicken), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), and com tam (broken rice with grilled pork). In addition to its cultural attractions, Saigon is also home to modern skyscrapers, luxury hotels, and shopping malls, making it a great destination for both business and leisure travellers.
Cu Chi Tunnels
The Cu Chi Tunnels are a network of underground tunnels located in the Cu Chi district of Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon) in Vietnam. The tunnels were used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War as a military base and supply route, and played a significant role in the war effort. The tunnels are a popular tourist attraction and offer visitors a unique glimpse into the history of the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore a section of the tunnels, which have been preserved and enlarged for tourist access, and see firsthand the narrow passageways, underground living quarters, and booby traps that the Viet Cong used to evade and ambush American troops.
In addition to the tunnels, visitors can also see displays of weapons and other artefacts used during the war, as well as watch a short film about the history of the tunnels and their significance in the war. The Cu Chi Tunnels are a testament to the resourcefulness and resilience of the Vietnamese people during the war, and provide a sobering reminder of the human cost of conflict. They are an important historical site that is worth visiting for anyone interested in the history of the Vietnam War or military history in general.
Mekong Delta
The Mekong Delta is a region in southwestern Vietnam where the Mekong River flows into the South China Sea. It is a lush and fertile area known for its scenic beauty, rich culture, and agricultural production. The Mekong Delta is often referred to as the “rice bowl” of Vietnam, as it is a major producer of rice, as well as other crops such as fruit, vegetables, and fish. Visitors can take a boat tour of the delta to see the floating markets where locals sell their produce, and learn about the traditional fishing methods used in the area.
The delta is also home to a number of small villages and towns where visitors can experience traditional Vietnamese life and culture. One such town is Can Tho, which is known for its beautiful temples, bustling markets, and scenic riverfront. Another popular attraction in the Mekong Delta is the Vinh Trang Pagoda, which is a beautiful Buddhist temple located in the town of My Tho. Visitors can see the ornate architecture and intricate carvings that adorn the temple, and learn about the history and significance of Buddhism in Vietnam. Anyone interested in the history of the Vietnam War or military history in general.
Vietnam is indeed an astonishing mix of natural highlights and cultural diversity. This fascinating country is full of surprises and is one of Southeast Asia’s most underrated destinations that deserve a visit.
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