Joanna James
Bursting to the seams in a riot of exotic colour and flavour, Vietnam has become a trendy destination renowned for its beautiful beaches, ancient temples, bustling markets, and delicious street food. Read on to discover a list of exciting things to do in Vietnam!
Home to fascinating temples, street food stalls, shophouses, and lots of traffic, Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a must-visit destination in Vietnam. Old Hanoi consists of 36 ancient streets where residents once crafted luxurious silks, paper, and various brushes which were supplied to Hanoi’s imperial city – the Thang Long Citadel. Apart from soaking in the rich history of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, one can also take in cool bars, local beer corners, restaurants, and an eclectic collection of stores selling funky trinkets.
Vietnamese cuisine essentially consists of minimal cooking, farm fresh ingredients, lots of leafy greens and plenty of fish. A great way to taste your way through Vietnam’s fresh herb-infused cuisine is by signing up for a street food tour. These walking tours last only half the day and do a fantastic job of taking travellers to top street food spots to sample dishes such as Pho and Banh Mi. Don’t forget to beat the tropical heat with a Vietnamese iced coffee with a generous helping of condensed milk.
There is no way better to take in Vietnam’s lush heartland than via travelling on a luxury rail carriage such as the Vietage. Discerning travellers who book themselves for train travel in Vietnam can enjoy stunning views of verdant rice paddies, quaint fishing hamlets, and mesmerising mountain scenery. One can expect to tuck into three-course gourmet lunches, indulge in spa treatments, and sip on snazzy cocktails to truly top off a luxurious experience.
Vietnam’s bustling Downtown Ho Chi Minh City is certainly a thrilling area to explore. This energetic area sits alongside a flowing riverside and is home to lovely French colonial villas, sleek high-rises, and colourful temples. The best way to explore these busy streets is via a vespa – which will help navigate the throngs of locals and visitors alike. To immerse yourself in Ho Chi Minh City's exciting atmosphere, spend time at local coffee shops, stop by craft cocktail bars located on hidden rooftop terraces, and tap into the local street food scene.
Known popularly as ‘Halong Bay on Land’ – Tam Coc is an exceptionally scenic area in Vietnam; where the Ngo Dong River sedately makes its way through emerald, green rice fields beautifully framed by towering round-topped limestone peaks. Tam Coc is best explored on board a bamboo boat traditionally rowed by women. Tam Coc is also home to rare wildlife, so consider visiting the Cuc Phuong National Park Endangered Primate Rescue Center to catch a glimpse of the endangered Delacour’s langur.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
