Unique, compelling and humble
Unique, compelling and humble; Vietnam is a country of diversity, unparalleled natural beauty and fascinating culture. Bordering Thailand on Southeast Asia’s South China Sea, Vietnam is known for its breath-taking coastline and tropical landscapes.
Although decimated by war only a few decades ago, Vietnam and its people are resilient, and the country has recovered in leaps and bounds. Its metropolitan areas like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi are exhilarating experiences that will spoil each one of your senses. Ancient temples and majestic palaces rise up between the narrow alleyways of traditional markets, and the newly-built mage malls. The streets are always lively, with restaurants, markets and vendors, the smell of fragrant spices, and animated conversation. The people of Vietnam are largely agreed to be some of the friendliest in the world, and in the crowded streets of the city, it’s a fact you can’t possibly ignore.
Cuisine
In all of Southeast Asia, nothing comes close to Vietnam’s cuisine. Every meal is a new discovery, and is appreciated by foodies and non-foodies alike. Vietnam is undeniably the street food capital of the world, and you’ll be spoiled for choice wherever you go.
Natural Wonders
Vietnam’s coastline attracts scores of visitors. Possibly one of Vietnam’s most famous attractions and natural wonders is Halong Bay, where almost 2000 forested limestone islets, as tall as skyscrapers, jut out of the azure blue water. Visitors can take a cruise through this UNESCO World Heritage Site, or visit it below the water on an exhilarating diving experience.
Despite attracting over eight million visitors per year and undergoing a considerable amount of westernisation in some areas, Vietnam’s traditional culture still thrives and forms an important part of daily life. In the countryside, you’ll find traditional villages still following the time-honoured, largely rural way of life. Fields are ploughed by water bison, people work by hand to make silk, cotton and pottery, and live in traditional bamboo houses.
Culture
Vietnam’s festivals must be some of the finest in the world to watch. The streets fill with parades, dancers, music and theatrics as people celebrate and give blessings. Vietnamese people hold these traditions in high esteem and are always eager to invite visitors to join in the celebrations.
Those who are culturally-inclined will be in their element in Vietnam, with scores of ancient temples and ruins to visit, each with their own fascinating legends. One of the most renowned is Chùa Keo, a thousand year old temple in the Thai Binh district. According to legend, this was the site where a local fisherman gained enlightenment from Buddha; giving him the ability to fly, tame wild animals and walk on water. He used his gift to save the life of the sick king. The beautiful, towering temple was built in his honour, and people continue to celebrate him with an annual festival at the temple.