One of the most unexpected and undiscovered travel destinations of South-East Asia is Vietnam. With it’s amazing street food, French influenced architecture and unique spiritual practices, Vietnam is the perfect location for those on a budget who want a taste of South-East Asia.
The Vietnamese Flag, Hanoi
An example of French inspired architecture in Ho Chi Minh
My trip began in Hanoi in Vietnam’s north. Having exited the airport, I was struck by the volume of motor-bikes and mopeds zipping and darting through the traffic. The sheer number of motor-bikes was amazing compared to the few cars on the street.
There is an unwritten rule about crossing the street in Vietnam – a slow and steady pace is the key. Don’t worry about dodging the scooters, they will dodge you (as long as you maintain eye contact). This rule particularly applies when bar-hopping through some of Vietnam’s finest waterholes. The first bar we arrived at was ‘Legend Beer’, Hanoi at the top of the lake in the Old Quarter. It has an amazing panoramic view of the lake and broader Hanoi.
Motorbikes in Hanoi
Other top tourist sites that I’d propose visiting is: Ha Long Bay, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, The Temple of Literature and Ngoc Son Temple. One restaurant I would highly suggest visiting is ‘Don Duck’, which serves a blend of spicy and tasty dishes all revolving around the centrepiece - duck.
The Temple of Literature, Hanoi
Ho Chi Minh, Mausoleum, Hanoi
Away from the hustle and bustle of Hanoi, the countryside of Vietnam moves at a more relaxed and serene pace. Our tour company organised our own transport including a bus to travel to central Vietnam and beyond. The other popular option is to take a quick domestic flight to central Vietnam to places such as Hoi An.
Of all the cities across Vietnam, I’d recommend Hoi An as a must see. It is an ancient town surrounded by lanterns which is highly walkable (and you don’t have to dodge mopeds).
Hoi An Lanterns at night
Hoi An Lanterns during the day
The Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park was a spectacular natural icon for all. There is an option to ride a zipline into the caves over turquoise blue water. From there, tourists can traverse further into the caves or kayak around.
One of the more interesting experiences was taking the overnight train from Da Nang to Nha Trang. They squeeze 6 people into this tiny compartment departing at around 12 midnight. This adventurous option can be quite unsteady and bumpy, so don’t expect to have a refreshing sleep.
Rock Formations (Tinh Khanh Hoa) outside Nha Trang,
Nha Trang is a popular location for its beaches and calmer vibe. Unfortunately, we missed the typically pleasant weather due to the tail of a typhoon. However there are an abundance of beautiful beaches with a range of high-quality restaurants.
Dalat is located in the south-east of Vietnam, but because it is mountainous, the city experiences much cooler weather. These mild conditions can be a welcome relief from the more stifling weather of Vietnam’s South such as Ho Chi Minh.
A pagoda outside Dalat
In terms of best months to travel, I’d highly recommend December and January. Hanoi can be mild to cool. Central Vietnam is humid and reasonably warm. Ho Chi Minh, in southern Vietnam is typically hot and humid (even in the winter).
One of the most enlightening and also harrowing experiences was visiting the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh. The real-life photographs and war equipment gives some insight in how the Vietnam war has impacted everyday society.
War Remnants Museum, Ho Chi Minh
The best aspect of Vietnam is the amazing range of food. From street-vendors selling Banh Mi, to hot and spicy Pho, to Beef Noodle Salad, to whipped-egg coffee - the range of dishes available is endless and all very healthy.
Overall, I’d highly recommend Vietnam as a cheap and vibrant destination for all adventurous travellers in 2021 and beyond. For more detailed information on Vietnam see the Lonely Planet Guide for Vietnam.