Culture, Cuisine, Heritage, and Everyday life
Explore Vietnam
Vietnam has transformed remarkably over the past few decades. When I was studying in the United States, many of my closest friends were Vietnamese who had immigrated there after the war. At that time, Vietnam was still rebuilding its economy and infrastructure, and international tourism was only beginning to emerge. If I had thought about travelling in Asia back then, destinations like Hong Kong, Japan, or Singapore would have come to mind long before Vietnam.
Today, Vietnam has become one of Southeast Asia’s most exciting travel destinations. Rapid development, growing investment, and improved infrastructure have made it increasingly accessible, while its rich history, vibrant culture, and spectacular landscapes continue to attract travellers from around the world.
Over the past five years, I have explored Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, Sapa, Hue, Da Nang, and Hoi An. Each journey has revealed a different side of the country. Like Thailand, Vietnam offers remarkable regional diversity, where every destination has its own landscapes, traditions, cuisine, and atmosphere. Although I have already experienced many of its highlights, there are still countless places waiting to be discovered.
Why I Enjoy Travelling to Vietnam
Vietnam is one of those destinations that continues to surprise me with every visit. Ancient imperial cities, dramatic limestone mountains, peaceful countryside, lively old quarters, and beautiful coastlines all exist within a single country. Every region feels distinct, making each trip a completely different experience.
Beyond the scenery, I have always enjoyed the friendliness of the local people and the excellent food. Whether wandering through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, cruising among the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay, watching lanterns illuminate the streets of Hoi An, or standing atop mountain viewpoints in Sapa, every destination has left me with memorable moments and photographs that inspire me to return.
Vietnam’s Popular Cities
Top Cities to Explore in Vietnam
- Hanoi — Vietnam’s historic capital, where centuries-old temples, French colonial architecture, bustling markets, and vibrant street food create one of Southeast Asia’s most captivating cities.
- Ha Long Bay — A UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone islands, best experienced on an overnight cruise.
- Ninh Binh — Often called “Ha Long Bay on land,” featuring dramatic limestone mountains, peaceful rivers, ancient temples, and scenic countryside.
- Sapa — A mountain retreat known for its spectacular rice terraces, ethnic minority villages, cool climate, and breathtaking hiking landscapes.
- Hue — Vietnam’s former imperial capital, home to the Imperial City, royal tombs, and a rich cultural heritage along the Perfume River.
- Da Nang — A modern coastal city offering sandy beaches, mountain viewpoints, excellent seafood, and easy access to central Vietnam’s attractions.
- Hoi An — One of Vietnam’s most picturesque towns, renowned for its lantern-lit Ancient Town, preserved architecture, riverside cafés, and tailor shops.
