Vietnam Hidden Gem
Vietnam is a land brimming with wonders, offering a rich history, captivating cultural traditions, and breathtaking landscapes. The country’s diverse cuisine is as remarkable as the warmth and hospitality of its people.
In the north, explore the charming alleys and admire the well-preserved colonial architecture of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Trek through the misty valleys of Sapa, or be mesmerized by the towering limestone karsts that rise dramatically from the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay.
Central Vietnam draws you in with the historic beauty of the Imperial City of Hue. Sail along the serene Perfume River, surrounded by landscapes steeped in ancient history. Picture women in traditional conical hats and children playing along the riverbanks. Cycle through the town’s timeworn streets, pass lush rice paddies, and savor Vietnam’s famous Bánh Mì — widely regarded as one of the world’s most delicious sandwiches.
8
World Heritage Sites
54
Ethnic Minorities
63
Cities
Vietnam Highlights
Vietnam Highlights
Explore our Vietnam sample itineraries to inspire your travel planning. The itineraries can be easily customised and adapted to your personal interests and preferences.
The Vietnamese people trace their origins to legendary kings who ruled nearly 5,000 years ago, making Vietnamese culture one of the oldest and most distinct in Southeast Asia. Over the centuries, this rich heritage has been shaped by various neighboring and ruling cultures, including the Chinese, Cham, Khmer, and French, among others. As visitors explore Vietnam, they will encounter a cohesive national culture, while also discovering unique regional characteristics that add depth and diversity to the country’s cultural tapestry.
Many of Vietnam’s most fascinating festivals are unique to specific regions. When planning your trip, it’s a great idea to consult with your travel advisor to see if any local festivals coincide with your itinerary. That said, some of Vietnam’s larger festivals are celebrated nationwide:
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Tết (Lunar New Year): Tết, usually celebrated between mid-January and mid-February, is the largest and most important holiday in Vietnam. People travel to their hometowns to reunite with family, and many businesses close for several days. The festive atmosphere is palpable as the country celebrates a new year filled with hope and joy.
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Vu Lan Festival: This special festival honors parents, especially mothers, both living and deceased. Celebrated on the 15th day of the 7th lunar month, Vu Lan is a time for reflection, gratitude, and paying homage to one’s parents.
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Mid-Autumn Festival (Tết Trung Thu): Known for its colorful paper lanterns, delicious mooncakes, and lively lion dances, the Mid-Autumn Festival is especially loved by children. Falling on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, it’s a time for families to gather, sip tea, and enjoy sweet mooncakes together.
Overall, Vietnam is a safe destination with minimal health or safety risks. However, it’s always wise to take basic precautions. Before traveling, consult your healthcare provider to see if any vaccinations or medications are recommended.
In bustling cities and crowded areas, be sure to keep an eye on your belongings, including cameras, mobile phones, and wallets/purses, to avoid theft.
The Vietnamese Dong (VND) is not pegged to the US Dollar, but the exchange rate as of February 2020 is approximately 1 US Dollar = 23,200 VND. ATMs are widely available in all cities, and many accept international ATM cards. Credit cards are increasingly accepted at larger hotels and shops, though some merchants may charge a small fee, and international transaction fees could apply
The Vietnamese postal system offers affordable international mailing, with letters and postcards sent worldwide for less than $2 USD. For faster shipments, international courier services like FedEx, UPS, and DHL are also available in Vietnam.
SIM cards for mobile phones are inexpensive and easy to find. Short-term data packages are very affordable and simple to activate. If you’d like to use your mobile phone upon arrival, consult with your travel advisor to arrange a SIM card in advance.
When traveling to Vietnam, it’s important to stay flexible and keep an open mind. Many travel frustrations arise from differing expectations and miscommunication. If issues arise, try to remain patient, smile, and embrace the experience. The Vietnamese people take great pride in their country and culture, and they are eager to share the beauty of their nation with international visitors.
