If all you know about Vietnam is the Vietnam War that took place ages ago, you cannot be blamed. Today however, Vietnam, stretching over 1,800 km up the eastern coast of Indochina is no longer the victimized land of war. It is a popular tourist destination where people not only come to honor those who died in the war but also experience beautiful authenticity of the Vietnamese culture, their traditions, the exquisite scenery, architecture and the hustle bustle of everyday Vietnamese life. The very fact that Vietnam is often opted for as a travel destination makes it a place worth visiting and experiencing.
Hanoi
Hanoi - Capital city of Vietnam
It is the best way to experience a new way of life along the banks of the Red River which is set amidst yellow stucco buildings bordering streets with leaves. The Art Museum also stands here which has on display sculptures, paintings and other artifacts. You can also visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum where people pay respects to the leader. The city is a striking combination of the old and the new, the ancient and the modern with French colonialism architecture standing tall with the high rise steel and glass buildings.
War Remnants Museum
War Remnants Museum - Historical importance
No trip to Vietnam is complete without a visit to the War Remnants Museum which gives an insight into the Vietnam War.
Reunification Palace
Reunification Palace - Symbol of a past history
This palace served as a government building during the Vietnam War and represents in many ways as a symbol of the war in 1966. Its historical importance cannot be underplayed.
Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City -The business hub of Vietnam
Also known as Saigon, most visitors visit Ho Chi Minh City when they land in Vietnam. Not only is the place filled with impressive architecture influenced by the French, there are also numerous hotels and other facilities to attract the tourists.
Cho Ben Thanh Market
Cho Ben Thanh Market - Authentic Vietnam
For those interested in the real Vietnam experience, visiting the Cho Ben Thanh Market is a real must. Souvenirs, various types of food and animals are right there in the market and you can immerse yourself in the flavor of the Vietnam way of life.
Things to Do
Visit Binh Tay, a place filled with attractive little shops and teahouses.
A visit to a local neighborhood like for Cholon District 5 is a must as it gives you an idea of authentic Vietnam traditions.
If you are interested in hiking, then make it to Dalat which is a popular place to indulge in some climbing in the mountains, having a walk around Emperor Bao Dai’s Summer Palace or even horse riding.
Visit Halong where you can tour about 3000 islands around the Gulf of Tonkin by paddle wheeler or by high speed boat and have a great time exploring the beaches and the grottos.
Vietnam is a great place to grab hold of a bicycle and ride long distance.
Visit the Cao Dai Temple in Tay Ninh.
How to get there
Vietnam Airlines is the best way to reach Vietnam. Regular services are there and that include helicopter and express boats. Within the country, you can use the rail transport system or even buses, motorbikes and cycle rickshaws.