Lifestyle

Are TripAdvisor’s suggested destinations in Vietnam worth exploring?

There are countless amazing experiences to be had in Vietnam, from indulging in mouthwatering street food in Hanoi to exploring the captivating natural beauty of Halong Bay's "limestone forest." These are just a couple of the incredible itineraries that await visitors to this enchanting country.

Administrator

20 January, 2024

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In TripAdvisor’s top choice for travel in 2024, Vietnam is one of the most fascinating destinations in Asia.

Captivating American tourists, the country is set to attract even more travelers this year. Let’s explore its five tourist attractions adored by the TripAdvisor community!

Hoan Kiem Lake on a warm winter day. Photo: BM Travel Vietnam

The premier travel website recently unveiled its Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best 2024 awards, honoring five Vietnam destinations: Hanoi, ancient town Hoi An, former imperial capital Hue, world wonder Ha Long Bay, and hill town Sapa.

The 2024 Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best Destinations are determined based on the quality and quantity of reviews for accommodations, restaurants, and things to do in each destination. These reviews are contributed by travelers worldwide on TripAdvisor over the past 12 months.

Hanoi: A Food Lover’s Paradise

The Vietnamese capital triumphed in two categories in the TripAdvisor Awards 2024. Hanoi won the top spot for food destinations and placed fourth in the overall top 25 destinations.

Hanoi is undeniably a haven for food enthusiasts in Vietnam. Offering a wide array of dining options, ranging from street food to regional delicacies to exquisite specialty dishes.

Egg coffee and sticky rice are Hanoi specialties. Photo: BM Travel Vietnam

From the soothing pho (traditional Vietnamese noodle soup) to the fusion wonder of banh mi (Vietnamese-style baguette), from the flavorsome bun cha (grilled pork with vermicelli) to the refreshing delights of goi cuon (fresh spring roll), diners can savor the richness and diversity of Vietnam’s street food.

International tourists can sample a variety of regional specialties in the heart of the capital without venturing far, experiencing flavors that remain faithful to the originals. Must-try dishes include banh cuon Cao Bang (steamed rice rolls from Cao Bang province), vit quay Lang Son (roast duck from Lang Son province), and bun bo Hue (beef noodle soup from Hue).

Hanoi also boasts three Michelin-starred restaurants, namely Gia (contemporary Vietnamese cuisine), Hibana by Koki (Japanese cuisine), and Tam Vi (home-style Vietnamese dishes).

The Idyllic Charm of Hoi An Ancient Town

A corner of ancient town Hoi An. Photo: Nguoi Hoi An

Meanwhile, Hoi An, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, secured second place in the Honeymoon Destinations category and tenth place in the overall top destinations category in TripAdvisor’s 2024 list.

Established in the 16th century in central Vietnam, this ancient city has won the hearts of global travelers with its UNESCO World Heritage status, preserved village life, nearby pristine beaches, and a harmonious blend of Chinese and French influences reflected in its diverse local food scene.

With a laid-back atmosphere, Hoi An charms visitors with its century-old houses, assembly halls, and stunning beaches, promising an unforgettable honeymoon.

In addition, Hoi An is an ideal destination for digital nomads due to its affordable cost of living. A cup of coffee costs around $1, a bottle of local beer about $2, and a bottle of mineral water about $0.3. A delightful three-course dinner for two, including a bottle of house wine, will not exceed $30.

The Breathtaking Beauty of Halong Bay

Halong Bay in Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam. Photo: The Pinoy Traveler

Ranking third in the Trending Destinations category, Ha Long Bay in Quang Ninh province is renowned for its mesmerizing limestone islands adorned with lush vegetation, surrounded by captivating emerald waters.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the bay entices visitors from around the globe to revel in its enchanting scenery, featuring thousands of majestic limestone pillars emerging from the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Gulf of Tonkin in the East Sea of Vietnam.

Hue: A Mythical Former Imperial City

Hue, situated in central Vietnam, clinched the eighth spot in the Cultural Destinations category. According to TripAdvisor, “Hue is clustered around the Perfume River, which divides the capital of the Nguyen dynasty in two. It has countless must-see historical sites, particularly those designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Key attractions include the ornate Imperial Citadel, the colorful Thanh Toan Bridge, royal tombs, and the symbolic Purple City.

The Former Imperial City of Hue in central Vietnam. Photo: Visit Hue

From moss-covered towers tucked into the hills to weathered stone warriors solemnly guarding the afterlife, Hue Citadel and Imperial Tombs exude the aura of a forgotten, almost mythical world. Constructed over 31 years from 1802 to 1833, the citadel served as the residence and governance center for nine Nguyen lords and 13 emperors of the Nguyen Dynasty. The tombs were meticulously designed to manifest the distinct personality, philosophy, and priorities of each monarch.

Sapa: A Town Enveloped in Mist

Sapa Town in the northern province of Lao Cai landed fifth place in the Trending Destinations of the 2024 TripAdvisor Awards.

Sapa Town, Lao Cai Province, Vietnam – a romantic setting. Photo: Hoa LyLy

The captivating landscapes of northern Vietnam’s mountainous regions have captured the hearts of many international travelers. The plum blossom season in February and March offers breathtaking vistas for sightseeing and trekking, showcasing valleys and mountain slopes blanketed with beautiful white flowers.

Tourists can also explore the Saturday night “Love Market,” the Gothic stone church in the city center – a reminder of French missionary influence, and savor various ethnic specialties at Vietnamese and European restaurants scattered throughout the town.