Most visitors to Vietnam are overwhelmed by the sublime beauty of the country's natural setting: the Red River Delta in the north, the Mekong Delta in the south and almost the entire coastal strip are a patchwork of brilliant green rice paddies tended by women in conical hats.
There are some divine beaches along the coast, while inland there are soaring mountains, some of which are cloaked by dense, misty forests. Vietnam also offers an opportunity to see a country of traditional charm and rare beauty rapidly opening up to the outside world.
VIETNAM TOURS & TRAVEL:
,
,
has shaken off its hostile attitude to travelers to become one of the most beguiling cities in Southeast Asia. It's slow-paced and pleasant, with a lovely landscape of lakes, shaded boulevards, verdant public parks and French-colonial architecture.
Hanoi personifies the spirit of historic Vietnam in the temples, monuments and pockets of ancient culture along the narrow streets of the Old Quarter, yet perfectly reflects the rapid changes sweeping the country as Hanoian yuppies sip cappuccinos in roadside cafes and compare cell phones.
Click here for
is the heart and soul of Vietnam. It's a bustling, dynamic and industrious center, the largest city in the country, the economic capital and the cultural trendsetter. Yet within the teeming metropolis are the timeless traditions and beauty of an ancient culture.
This is a city that churns, ferments, bubbles and fumes. The streets, where much of the city's life takes place, are a jumble of street markets, shops, pavement cafes, stands-on-wheels and vendors selling wares spread out on sidewalks. It's impossible not to be infected by its exhilarating vibe.
Click here for
Central Vietnam has it all. Historically, Hue has been the heartbeat of Vietnam. Today, its main attractions are the splendid tombs of the Nguyen emperors, several notable pagodas and the remains of the Citadel.
A living museum, the riverside town of Hoi An oozes charm and culture from every corner.
Danang is the economic powerhouse of central Vietnam. With new roads, new bridges and new buildings, it is starting to act like a city of its size, while Nha Trang has one of the
Click here for
SUGGESTED ITINERARIES: VIETNAM
Vietnam offers a varying feast for the eyes. Check out tranquil Mui Ne Beach, or the bustling party scene further north in Nha Trang. Explore the splendid rock formations, sea cliffs and grottoes of Halong Bay. Trek through the northern mountains or sashay through the colonial elegance of Ho Chi Minh City.
The city of Dalat is the jewel of the southern Central Highlands region. The cool climate and park-like environment (dotted with Vietnamese-style kitsch) makes it one of the most delightful cities in Vietnam. Dalat is also a good base for trips into the surrounding highlands, which remain tranquil.
VIETNAM Tours, Travel and Activities
SUGGESTED ITINERARIES: VIETNAM
