Southeast Asia has been a popular tourist destination for a long time. In colonial times the Indochina Peninsula was the epitome of the exotic Orient. The turmoil of the 70s changed the situation in the region, and for a while, Thailand became the star attraction, but Vietnam is back, and it has some beautiful destinations that are specifically Vietnamese. Vietnam is a unique country, 1650 kilometres north to south, with diverse wildlife and many cultural influences. Vietnam has gone through a lot of changes but has kept much of its identity and charm. Here are some of the highlights starting in the south.
- Ho Chi Minh City: Formerly Saigon, Ho Chi Minh is now a vibrant modern city with all the conveniences. It has a vibrant nightlife and various styles of accommodations, from 5-star luxury hotels to boutique hotels in Saigon in the historical centre district. Several attractions are nearby, including the 1891 Saigon Central Post Office, the War Remnants Museum, Reunification Place, and the Saigon Opera House, among other things. Outside the city, there is the War era, Chu Chi Tunnels, where you can experience what the Vietnamese soldiers had to go through as they fought for independence. There is also Sao Beach and the beautiful Mekong Delta. Ho Cho Minh City is a great place to begin your adventure.
- Danang (Central Region): Danang is perhaps the best-known area in the central region of Vietnam. Danang is also a modern city, but it features many old and new world influences, and it is a great place to experience authentic Vietnamese culture. A main attraction of Danang is the beautiful coastline and famous Beaches such as Nam O, and My Khe. Vietnam has an enormous coast, and if you want to see more of it, perhaps chartering a boat from Danang will be just the thing. There are also various tourist attractions such as the Dragon Bridge, The Danang Cathedral, and various other museums and historical locations.
- Hanoi: Hanoi is the capital and the most important city in the northern region. It is a beautiful city that has kept much of the charm of the colonial era. You can enjoy the world’s best coffee while listening to jazz in the city park and feel very Parisienne for a while. Not too far from Hanoi is Ha Long Bay, which should be on everyone’s bucket list. It is an iconic, postcard-perfect location. There are many Historical attractions such as Ho Chi Minh’s Tomb and more ancient sites as well.
Wherever you go in Vietnam you will experience the charm of the culture as well as some the cuisine that is known the world over.
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