"A narrow land with a bit of everything" Top 5 Page for this destination Vietnam by SirRichard

Vietnam Travel Guide: 13,657 reviews and 28,623 photos

History...

Vietnam is a country which recently opened to tourism, but has developed a lot in the last few years. Some friends of mine came not long ago and told me it was very virgin, no tourists at all... I wouldn't say so anymore. There are many touristic resources (not as many as in nearby Thailand or Singapore), but is not so touristly crowded as to feel part of a visiting crowd.

It has a rich and ancient culture, very related with its giant north neighbour (China). Not only the Vietnam War remains, but loads of Palaces, Tombs, Museums, and UNESCO heritage places.

Nature...

Halong Bay

Landscapes here are gorgeous... apart from the typical rice fields and palm trees, you can find some fantastic natural sceneries here:
- Halong Bay (north) with its many rocky islands.
- The Mekong river delta, with its many canals, farms, markets...
- The north mountains (Sa Pa...) where you can do some trekking and explore some remote tribes with amazing traditions.
- The beaches around NaThrang and the middle part of the country, so wild...

... and charming people

A local market

People are really charming here, you will find a bustling activity around the many local markets, full of colour and enchanting smells.
Vietnam cuisine is famous in Asia, it's got a huge variety and is really delicious and cheap. Try local specialities at the street stalls, sit amongst locals and enjoy food as part of their lives.

Last visit to Vietnam: Aug 2003
Intro Written Sep 23, 2003
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Reviews (51)

Hanoi Water Puppets Theatre Nightlife (2)

This traditional form of puppeting is exclusive of Vietnam, specially of the north, so Hanoi is the perfect place to see... more travel advice

Chinese Guesthouses (Hoi An) Hotels (4)

Hoi An has many interesting and well preserved ancient lodgings, all decorated in chinese style, in which you feel... more travel advice

Old Town area above the Lake (Hanoi) Hotels (4)

If you are looking for a cheap hotels and guesthouses area in Hanoi, take a look around the area which is north of the... more travel advice

Cyclos Transportation (7)

This public bycicle transport is very typical of Vietnam. Not as fast as the motos, is a more relaxed way to see the... more travel advice

Tourist Traps (1)
Hanoi, capital of touts
Favorites (9)
See All Ho Chi Minh
Off The Beaten Path (3)
See All Vegetables' markets
Local Customs (5)
See All Hand towels
Shopping (5)
See All Fish markets

Restaurants (5)
See All Brother's Cafe (Hanoi)
What to Pack (2)
See All Monsoon
Sports & Outdoors (1)
Badmington
Things to Do (7)
See All Halong Bay Grottoes
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Comments (40)

alza Nov 26, 2010 at 8:10 PM Report Abuse

salut l'ami! may be going to Vietnam within a year, my friend wants to know how much we shld budget for a month,travelling cheap... as if I know! haha. How long did your visit last? tks for all your tips!
beardop Jul 12, 2009 at 1:18 AM Report Abuse

just a quick question. do you remember the business name on where you got your tailor shirts made in Vietnam? or do you know any good tailor outlets that are cheap and quick? thanks Paige
piglet44 Nov 16, 2008 at 5:59 AM Report Abuse

hola Joaquin,you are the first person who gives me good tip for the monsoon weather! muchas gracias de Jerusalen
flyfreak Oct 20, 2008 at 7:24 AM Report Abuse

hola, thks for your helpful pages on Vietnam and so many other countries. I like your motto "when in doubt .. move" ;-) saludos, patricia
Jasminerose Aug 26, 2008 at 2:51 PM Report Abuse

Hi there I am coming for 3 weeks mid November... have been to Thailand but never Vietnam. Your pages are beautifully put together and really great info. so I have a slight idea what to expect.. *great pics thankyou : ()
ValbyDK Jun 15, 2008 at 8:49 AM Report Abuse

Hi Joaquin. Great info. I'm planning a trip to Vietnam later this year. Thanks for the tips.
pure1942 Apr 30, 2008 at 9:22 AM Report Abuse

Hi Joaquin - What a great page! I'm looking forward to visiting Vietnam. Looks like such a beautiful and interesting country. Thanks for sharing - Brian
locbuuloc Feb 29, 2008 at 4:59 PM Report Abuse

That is just an awesome bit of information on Vietnam. Weldone! Tourists likeyou will be welcomed no matter where you are. Cheers
dancinbudgie Jan 6, 2008 at 6:46 PM Report Abuse

Thanks for some great tips. Will be in Vietnam in August and they will be very useful.
jenwelker Dec 9, 2007 at 5:46 AM Report Abuse

Where can we find these great croissants and cafe au lait?