Vietnam Most Loved Travel Experiences

Vietnam Has Everything for Everyone

For couples seeking a getaway filled with sun, sea, and excellent beaches, consider Mui Ne. This destination has evolved beyond just being an alternative to Nha Trang and Da Nang, becoming a popular hotspot in its own right.

For nature and culture enthusiasts, a trek to the picturesque mountains of Sapa remains a must-do experience. Picture yourself enveloped by fresh mountain air, vibrant flora, and the colorful traditional attire of local ethnic communities—this is your dream adventure waiting to unfold!
Photo: tintravel.com - Mui Ne Beach

If you're social and enjoy meeting new people, make sure to stop by a bia hoi corner on the street. Enjoy a plate of roasted peanuts alongside a mug of fresh draught beer, and it might just change your perception of what beer can offer.

Vietnam's history is marked by resilience amidst war. A visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, located about 90 minutes from Ho Chi Minh City, provides a glimpse into this historical narrative.

Halong Bay caters to a wide array of travelers' tastes, with stunning water views, majestic mountains, fishermen's lifestyles, mysterious grottos, and breathtaking landscapes. Frequently cited as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay is a captivating destination where all these elements converge.

Last but not least, exploring the vibrant lives of the Mekong Delta from a boat is a beloved activity for travelers. You'll soon realize that peace and happiness thrive in this serene environment, where locals embrace the simplicity of life.

A Memorable Trek in Sapa

Nowhere else will you find a trek as memorable as in Sapa. As you wander through the lush landscape, you'll be awestruck by the expansive terraced rice paddies. The enchanting isolation, complemented by the colorful attire of the local ethnic groups, leads you from vibrant markets to charming stilt houses. Along the way, music and local wine will add to the rich tapestry of your journey.
Photo: vyctravel.com

You can select a trail that suits your fitness level and preferences. Generally, easier trails attract larger crowds, while challenging ones offer a more authentic experience. A guide is recommended if you opt for the latter.

Your guide is likely to be a local young person who shares captivating stories about their life while ensuring you stay engaged. This unique experience is not to be missed during your time in Vietnam.

Travel Tips:

Charge your camera fully, as Sapa is one of the most photogenic locations in Vietnam.

Be clear with street vendors to avoid persistent following.

Always ask for permission before photographing ethnic minorities.

Refrain from stepping on rice paddies; they are vital to the local economy.

Cheering Over Bia Hoi with Locals

Sipping beer at a street corner in Hanoi's Old Quarter while engaging with new friends and observing life unfold around you could be one of the most memorable moments of your travels.

The term “bia hoi” is said to be third in importance after “xin chao” (hello) and “cam on” (thank you) for those learning Vietnamese. On a hot day, nothing rivals a chilled glass of draught beer.
Photo: xahoi.com.vn

The great news is that draught beer is widely enjoyed throughout Vietnam. The downside? It's so affordable (around 25-40 cents per glass) that you may find it hard to put down the glass after your third! Ta Hien Street is a popular spot for bia hoi, where tourists and locals gather to socialize and chat about anything from current events to everyday life.

As you sip your beer, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere around you—vendors selling books and DVDs, elderly locals strolling peacefully, and various modes of transport whizzing by. This seemingly chaotic scene can be both fascinating and entertaining while you relax over a drink.

Travel Tips:

• Vietnamese commonly enjoy beer with boiled or roasted peanuts—give it a try!
• Be prepared for street vendors to approach you with postcards and snacks. A firm “no” will suffice if you prefer not to buy anything.
• Stay vigilant against pickpockets at all times.

Rejuvenating Yourself at Untouched Mui Ne Beach

Ranked among the top beach destinations by both international visitors and locals, Mui Ne offers everything you need for a delightful beach holiday, featuring a long stretch of white sandy shore lined with coconut palms, tranquil waters for swimming, and choppy waves ideal for wind and wave surfing, along with equipment rentals for snorkeling and other water sports.
Photo: yeudulich.com 

The area also benefits from well-developed accommodations, including hotels, resorts, bungalows, and hostels that neatly line the beachfront.

To the east and north, enormous sand dunes make for an exhilarating day trip for sand surfing enthusiasts. The rewarding hike to the summit offers stunning views of Mui Ne's beach and the nearby fishing village.

Alternatively, consider a jeep tour to explore the Cham ruins or take a motorbike ride to Phan Thiet town. The local market in Phan Thiet is brimming with fresh seafood and dragon fruit, and the region is famously known for its high-quality fish sauce.

Paddling Along the Mekong River

If you’ve ever dreamed of Venice, visiting the Mekong Delta will make you feel as if you've found the "Venice of the East." Traveling from house to house often involves navigating fragile bamboo bridges, while venturing into villages requires a boat ride along picturesque canals and rivers.
Photo: saigonhotel.com

While there may be no grand sparkling churches, you’ll encounter friendly homes instead. Forget gondolas; a local woman wearing a conical hat may offer you a ride in her boat while singing traditional songs.

As you glide through this serene landscape, you experience the essence of simple happiness: breathe in the fresh air, connect with the water that cradles our civilization, and enjoy the gentle breeze from the coconut groves while watching children play in nature.

The canals between My Tho and Ben Tre provide ample opportunities for such water-based adventures. You can rent a boat for personalized exploration or opt for a package tour from Ho Chi Minh City. This experience is truly unmissable!

Cruising Through the UNESCO World Heritage: Halong Bay

Ha Long Bay is a source of immense pride for the Vietnamese people, having been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its breathtaking landscapes of caves, mountains, and serene waters make it deserving of this prestigious title.
Photo: baovanhoa.com 

The ideal way to appreciate Ha Long Bay's beauty is by booking a tour from Hanoi or Ha Long City, especially those offering overnight stays on a boat. Alternatively, you can choose a tour that includes an overnight on Cat Ba Island. Either option will allow for breathtaking views as you sail from cave to cave, contemplating the wonders of nature. Many tours also offer kayaking, swimming, and brief visits to local fishing villages.

Travel Tips:

• Protect the environment by avoiding littering while on board.
• Be mindful of the weather; apply sunscreen generously to avoid sunburn.
• Bring a swimsuit as most tours will include swimming stops at scenic spots.
• A pair of flip-flops is ideal for cruising around Ha Long Bay.

Exploring the Cu Chi Tunnel

If you’re interested in understanding Vietnam's wartime history, the Cu Chi Tunnels is a great place to start. Located approximately two hours from Ho Chi Minh City, this intricate network of tunnels served as a miniature underground city and houses numerous war relics.

Spanning over 200 kilometers, these tunnels provided living quarters and meeting places for Viet Cong soldiers during the war. As you crawl through the narrow passageways and sample yucca with salted sesame seeds, you’ll gain insight into Vietnam's remarkable resilience. The tunnel system's clever architecture, designed for survival and military strategy, is truly astonishing.
Photo: sincafe.net

For a hassle-free experience, consider booking an organized tour from Pham Ngu Lao Street, which includes transportation and knowledgeable guides. Cu Chi is a significant site for those wishing to delve deeper into the history of the Vietnam War.

Travel Tips:

• Book your tour in advance to ensure everything runs smoothly. Ideal group sizes for visiting Cu Chi should be around 15-20 people.
• Bring plenty of water, as there can be a lot of walking involved.
• Consider carrying a notebook if you are keen on history, as Cu Chi provides a unique opportunity for experiential learning about the Vietnam War.