Vietnam Famous Places

Vietnam is rich in history and culture blended from diverse influences that have presided over the country and its people. From the 2000 years of domination by the Chinese to the more modern influences of French colonialism and the turbulent independence movement of the mid 20th Century, Vietnam is now being embraced by the world for its magnificent natural beauty, friendly and inquisitive people and its delicious food. Full of UNESCO and World Heritage listed sights. Vietnam is a treasure trove of memories. Its geography, man made monuments and structures are supplemented by the positive attitude of the Vietnamese people themselves, creating an inspiring and captivating atmosphere for visitors.

Hanoi
Hanoi is the capital of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam and is often referred to as the ‘Paris of the Orient’. Filled with lakes, tree lined boulevards and French designed villas, this romantic city cuts a distinctly different style of life to that in Saigon. A must see sight in Hanoi is the Old Quarter, comprised of trading streets where traditional and modern goods are traded from centuries old “tunnel houses” and narrow streets are abuzz with color and activity.

Sapa
A favorite destination for those who have ventured there, the old French hill station of Sapa is set among the picturesque Hoang Lien Son mountain range, which is the highest in Vietnam. Inhabited by the Black Hmong ethnic minority and surrounded by many other colorful hill-tribe minorities, Sapa is a perfect location to appreciate the lifestyle of these friendly people, especially at the markets.

Halong Bay
The World Heritage listed Halong Bay is often referred to as the ‘jewel in the crown’ of Vietnam. According to legend, the 1000’s of islands were formed by a dragon and its efforts form some of the most stunning scenery in Vietnam. No itinerary would be complete without at least spending a four hour cruise on the Bay of Tonkin and, if time permits, staying overnight on board a traditional junk boat anchored among the bizarre rock sculptures watching sunset and sunrise.

Hue
This ancient city is bisected by the Perfume River, given its name by the smell created from the fallen flowers which drift down the river each year. Hue became the capital and cultural center of Vietnam last century and was home to Vietnam’s last Emperor Dynasty and as such contains the must see UNESCO listed Citadel and Royal Tombs.

Hoi An
Known as the ‘Living Museum of Vietnam’, this UNESCO listed town is a place lost in time. Once a major trading port of South East Asia from the end of the 16th Century to the early 19th Century, Hoi An was populated and influenced architecturally by Japanese, French, Chinese and Vietnamese designs. Becoming forgotten to the outside world once its river silted up, this charming town still retains its well kept original historic buildings and ancient backstreets and has become a favorite destination for today’s visitors. It is also the best place for bargain priced, tailor- made clothes.

Dalat
Built by the French as a hill station retreat from the Saigon heat, this small town nestled in the Central Highlands is a favorite destination for the romantics and is also known as the favorite honeymoon destination among the local Vietnamese. Being surrounded by lakes, valleys and waterfalls, this small colonial designed town has a real alpine feel.

Nha Trang
Nha Trang has traditionally relied on its vast fishing industry which is evident in the lifestyle of the local people. Taking advantage of some of the best coastline and weather in Vietnam, Nha Trang is developing into one of its main resort towns. Boasting perfect weather for fishing and some of the clearest water in Vietnam, a cruise, snorkel and seafood lunch out on the bay among the islands off Nha Trang is a must.

Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh formerly called Saigon with a population of 7 Million, is situated in the south-eastern corner of Vietnam with a short distance north of the Mekong river delta and is the largest city and commercial hub of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. Major tourist attractions include the Reunification Palace-formerly South Vietnam Presidential Palace, the War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Opera House and Ben Thanh Market. Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta with dense network of canals and rice fields are only short drive away.

Mekong Delta
Known as the Rice Basket of Vietnam, the Delta is an important region both economically and culturally for the country as it is the world’s largest exporting region of rice. Home to 15 million Vietnamese, this is a world of waterways, backwaters and canals, always influenced by the whims of the river system. The Delta is an ideal place to experience the life of a local Vietnamese farmer in one of our home stays, located among the small islands and canals of the Mekong River.