I’m currently travelling in Vietnam once more, and it has made me recognise how accurate the words of St Augustine are: “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only a single page.”
This chapter of my book reveals an appreciation of the luxury in the Western world that we often take for granted. Traveling through the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, among the 11 million motorbikes that mingle with other forms of transport, it soon becomes clear that speed is not the most important factor and that consideration for others is an unspoken rule of the road. Families board one bike with up to four passengers at a time, and have mastered this form of transportation to an art.”, Sarah Thompson wrote in her blog.
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| Photo: Travelweekly |
Sharon Thompson was captivated by the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC). From its jam-packed streets, filled with motorbikes, to the seemingly endless rows of shops that offer everything from food and toys to jewelry and fashion, there is something for everyone in this bustling city. Not to mention the array of eateries, beer shops, and coffee shops. But the city also boasts a wide selection of high-end hotels, featuring luxurious rooms and exemplary customer service. Visitors can also expect to be welcomed by the city’s friendly sellers and local people.
HCMC has generally warm temperatures year-round, with heatwaves typically hitting the city from April to May. The rainy season runs from May to November, with slightly cooler temperatures experienced in December and January.
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Sarah Thompson highlighted the importance of taking time to relax when travelling from South to North, recommending Hoi An and Hue as two cities to stop off midway. She suggested that spa treatments at beautiful hotels are a great way to enjoy a calming break.
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| Photo: Travelweekly |
Hoi An is a city in Vietnam that comes alive in the evenings, with beautiful lanterns lining the streets and couples taking romantic boat trips along the river. Often referred to as the ‘Venice of the Far East’, Hoi An’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, free from traffic and full of life.
If you ever visit Hanoi, make sure you don’t miss out on the unforgettable cyclo tour around Hoan Kiem Lake and the old quarter. The old town boasts unique architecture that will transport you back in time. After your tour, why not top it off with a delicious egg coffee, one of the city’s most popular drinks?
Reasons Why Tourists Are Drawn to Vietnam
Vietnam is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, but its street food is just as famous. Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated for its use of fresh ingredients and unique spices and herbs. With an abundance of dishes to choose from, visitors can barely manage to sample them all in one trip!
Vietnam is an ideal destination for travelers on a budget. A vacation in Vietnam costs significantly less than many other countries around the world, making it a great choice for those looking to save money.
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| Photo: BBC |
With its stunning coastline stretching over 3,260 km, Vietnam is renowned for its exquisite beaches that adorn the South China Sea. Even amongst the finest beaches Vietnam has to offer, visitors are consistently returning to this country for an unforgettable holiday, luxuriating in the mesmerizing beauty of its paradisiacal shores.
Hаlоng Bау is an absolute must-see for any traveler visiting Vietnam. Nestled within the Gulf of Tonkin, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has captivated visitors with its stunning seascape of over 1,600 islands and islets. Located just four hours east of Hanoi, Halong Bay is well worth the journey. Whether you spend a few nights on a boat surrounded by the breathtaking islands or simply enjoy a day trip, Halong Bay is a remarkable experience that will surely stay with you for years to come.
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| Photo: Cathay Parcific |
Apart from the stunning sceneries, historical attractions, and famous Vietnamese cuisines, the people of Vietnam are a huge draw for tourists. With a blossoming smile, the locals are always welcoming to foreign visitors, intrigued and curious about people from developed countries.
Friendliness is a big part of the culture, as the extended family spirit is deeply rooted in it. Locals are known to invite guests to their homes to enjoy a drink or meal together, making a visit to Vietnam a truly unforgettable experience.
If you ever find yourself in need of assistance while travelling, don’t hesitate to ask the locals for help! Even if you don’t speak the same language, you can still communicate using body language and gestures. If that fails, try using a translation app like Google Translate to bridge the gap. Remember to be patient and open-minded, and you’ll be sure to get the help you need!
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| Photo: Vinpearl |
Vietnam’s history is complex and fascinating, making it a popular destination for tourists eager to learn more. From visits to fascinating museums and the renowned Cu Chi Tunnels, to exploring the Vietnam War and the imperial city of Hue, there’s something for everyone. No matter how long you stay, you won’t be able to get all the answers you seek – that’s why many visitors come back to Vietnam time and time again to uncover more of its rich and varied history.
Con Dao island named Asia’s paradise sea: CNN
NDO/VNA – Boasting crystal turquoise sea and a placid atmosphere, Con Dao island in the southern province of Ba Ria – Vung Tau has been named by the US Cable News Network (CNN) as one of Asia’s paradise seas.
Central region to host diverse activities to celebrate New Year 2019
NDO – Cities and provinces in Vietnam’s central region will host a wide range of activities in celebration of New Year 2019.
Vietnam’s Hoi An named the world’s best city of 2019
NDO – Vietnam’s ancient city of Hoi An in the central Quang Nam province was named the world’s best city of 2019 by the New York-based Travel + Leisure magazine.
Hoi An among 15 world’s best cities
NDO/VNA – The ancient town of Hoi An in the central province of Quang Nam was named among the 15 best cities of the world in a recent readers’ vote of the US travel magazine Travel & Leisure.
Vietnam Military History Museum receives Fatherland Protection Order
NDO – The Vietnam Military History Museum held a ceremony in Hanoi on July 15 to celebrate its 60th anniversary (1956-2016) and receive the Fatherland Protection Order, first class.
