Vietnam is a paradise for food lovers, and no trip is complete without experiencing its street food culture. Hanoi’s Old Quarter is the best place to sample pho, the iconic noodle soup, or banh mi, a French-inspired sandwich packed with meats and pickled vegetables. In Hue, savor the unique flavors of bun bo Hue, a spicy beef noodle soup. Hoi An is famous for cao lau, a dish made with chewy noodles, pork, and fresh greens. Down south in Ho Chi Minh City, enjoy banh xeo, a crispy turmeric-infused pancake filled with shrimp and bean sprouts. Street food markets, such as Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City and Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi, offer endless options for foodies.
Vietnam is a country of vibrant festivals, with celebrations taking place year-round. The most important is Tet Nguyen Dan (Vietnamese New Year), a week-long festival marked by family reunions, dragon dances, and firework displays. The Mid-Autumn Festival is a magical time for children, with lantern parades and mooncakes filling the streets. In the highlands, the Gau Tao Festival of the H’mong people is a joyous event featuring traditional music, dance, and sports. Each region has its own unique celebrations, from the buffalo fighting festivals in Do Son to the whale worship festivals of coastal fishing villages. Attending a Vietnamese festival offers a deep dive into the country’s cultural richness.
Traveling by train in Vietnam is a memorable experience, offering scenic views and a slower pace of travel. The Reunification Express, which runs from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, is a historic railway that covers over 1,700 kilometers, passing through picturesque countryside, coastal towns, and bustling cities. One of the most breathtaking stretches is the journey from Da Nang to Hue, which takes passengers over the Hai Van Pass, offering panoramic views of the sea and mountains. For an extraordinary train ride, take the overnight train from Hanoi to Sapa, which winds through misty valleys and rolling hills. Train travel in Vietnam is an excellent way to enjoy the country’s diverse landscapes while relaxing in a comfortable carriage.
Beyond its famous beaches, Vietnam is home to several lesser-known islands that offer pristine beauty and tranquility. Con Dao, an archipelago in southern Vietnam, boasts crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and incredible marine biodiversity, making it perfect for snorkeling and diving. The island also has a rich history, as it was once home to a notorious prison during French colonial rule. Ly Son Island, off the coast of Quang Ngai Province, is known for its volcanic landscapes, garlic farms, and stunning cliffs that overlook the deep blue sea. Nam Du, another hidden gem, offers untouched beaches, coral reefs, and a peaceful fishing village atmosphere. These lesser-explored islands provide a perfect escape for those seeking relaxation and adventure away from the usual tourist trails.
Ninh Binh, often called “Halong Bay on land,” is a breathtaking region of limestone karsts, lush rice paddies, and serene waterways. Located just a two-hour drive from Hanoi, it’s an excellent destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers boat tours through stunning river caves, winding between towering limestone cliffs. Tam Coc, another must-visit, features a scenic boat ride through caves and rice fields, often rowed by local women using their feet. For those interested in history, the ancient capital of Hoa Lu showcases well-preserved temples dedicated to Vietnam’s early kings. A visit to Ninh Binh isn’t complete without a climb to the Mua Cave viewpoint, which rewards adventurers with a panoramic view of the surrounding karst formations and lush countryside.
