Vietnam promises a spectacle of delights. A charming country filled with natural wonders, tantalising cuisine and rich history, it deserves a place on anyone’s bucket list. Here’s how you can get the most out of your trip of a lifetime.
When should you visit Vietnam?
The best time to visit Vietnam is during the dry season, which runs from December to May. And before you book your trip, remember to check the latest travel advice so that you’re fully prepared with any travel documents or visas.
What’s the best way to get around Vietnam?
With Vietnam being such a big country, trains, including dedicated ‘sleeper trains’ are a very useful way to get around. Otherwise, planes can be taken if you want to travel a long distance in a short amount of time.
When getting about on a more local scale, buses and rented motorbikes are the easiest way to move around. Both are very cheap compared to taxis.
What things can you see and do in Vietnam?
When it comes to things to do in Vietnam, the list is endless. Key destinations include the following:
- Ha Long Bay: Soak up the picture-perfect UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning scenery of limestone karsts that sit amongst striking green waters.
- Ninh Binh: The ideal day trip, Ninh Binh is great for adventurers, offering caves and grottos to explore by boat.
- Ha Giang: If you want to experience riding a motorbike with enviable views across terraced rice paddies and remarkable valleys, this is the place for you.
- Hanoi: A trip to the capital is a must and the Old Quarter is well worth a visit to eat street food and enjoy marvel at the charming, narrow houses.
- Ho Chi Minh City: This bustling city is packed with markets, culture and the brilliant Mekong Delta.
Opting for a dedicated Vietnam tour can be a much more convenient option to box off your desired itinerary, as they often integrate travel into the trip. This way, you’re guaranteed to see some of the country’s best sites in one go.
What is the cuisine like in Vietnam?
Best known for recipes passed down through generations, Vietnam’s culinary scene is a joy to behold and you’ll be spoilt for choice with tasty dishes to try.
You might already be familiar with pho, a hearty broth with flat rice noodles packed with herbs and spices, as well as the humble bánh mì baguettes, which come stuffed with meat or egg with fresh vegetables drizzled in a sweet sauce. But there’s so much more to try beyond these staples. Gỏi cuốn, otherwise known as ‘summer rolls’ are a fresher different take on your typical spring rolls, while chè is a savoury and sweet dessert made with an array of ingredients, from grass jelly to tapioca fruit.
