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Vietnam

Vietnam- Overview

Vietnam is a land that merges with the clear blue waters and gets kissed by the broad horizon. Green foliage adorning the cliffs and rock-cut hilltops look beautiful against the contrast of the sandy sea beaches that shimmer when the sun rays fall on them. Vietnam is the country that speaks of art and culture and revives the age-old traditions through food, lifestyle, and culture. Its architecture not just symbolizes its authenticity but showcases balance. This is because Vietnam also has an influence of Japanese, Chinese, and French styles of architecture.

Vietnam is the country that displays the mesmerizing water bodies, takes the travelers across the emerald waters in a lavish cruise, and gives them the chance to master the traditional style of making handicrafts, and whatnot. In short, Vietnam gives the tourists a reason to cherish the vacation forever.

Accessibility to Vietnam

Vietnam is accessible by land, air, and water routes. Of them, air routes are considered as convenient. There are several airports in Vietnam that can be accessed regularly. For foreigners, the best way to enter Vietnam is by flying to its capital, Ha Noi. There are flights from most of the Asian countries and certain places like Dubai, London, etc. For people flying in from the Western countries, breaking their journey in Dubai is much more pocket-friendly. The land routes usually comprise of railways and buses. These two are not much recommended for crossing through the borders because of the heavy checking process and multiple permits required. Travelling by waterways on a cruise is quite expensive and might not be an affordable option for all.

History of Vietnam

Vietnam is the country that was born as tribes gained the power to establish their reigns. The noticeable tribe that had first demarcated highest power is the Hong Bang Dynasty. Later, Vietnam was conquered by the Chinese and it took them 1000 years to free them of the Chinese rule. Vietnam had, since then, started growing with a mixture of Chinese and Vietnamese influence in terms of food and culture until 1858. In this year, this peace-loving country was colonized by the French and Vietnam gained independence from them in 1954 under the leadership of the legendary person, Ho Chi Minh. Following this independence, Vietnam again entered into a state of unrest and got divided into two major halves – the North that support communism and the South that was against this morale. This indifference led to the Vietnam War in which South Vietnam was aided by the USA. After a great struggle, North Vietnam defeated the enemy and united the whole of Vietnam to establish peace and harmony and walk towards the path of progress.

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HA NOI - Overview

Nestled on the banks of the Red River, Ha Noi has always stood out in terms of culture, progress, and magnificence. Ha Noi is one of those prominent cities that have left its prominent significance on the pages of history. Surrounded by the beautiful elements of nature, this city has always been a source of attraction not just for the natives but for the foreigners as well. This is perhaps why Ha Noi was one of the colonized places ruled by the French. Apart from France, this city was also under the influence of Russia. This is why the present culture in Ha Noi mingles the best elements from the three cultures – Vietnamese, Russian, and French. Talking about architecture, Ha Noi is good enough to stand as a strong competitor in the world. While the coding geniuses already know the popularity of the Tower of Ha Noi, this city has a lot to offer to its visitors. French colonial architecture against the shade of the classic ancient pagodas is a sight to behold. Thus, Ha Noi is that ancient city that finds a place in the bucket list of every modern individual.

Accessibility to HA NOI

Ha Noi is the capital of Vietnam. Thus, it is evident that this city will have the largest airport in the country. Located 35 km from the central part of Ha Noi, the Noi Bai International Airport connects Ha Noi to different places. There are several airlines that connect directly to popular places like Bangkok, Manila, Tokyo, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Seoul, London, Dubai, etc. If you are traveling from one of the Asian countries, you may get a direct flight or a connecting flight from Bangkok. However, for the Westerners, changing flights in Dubai is the most convenient option.

While inside Vietnam, buses are the best way to travel on a budget. There are trains connecting Vietnam and Ho Chi Minh. However, travelling 3 days on the train is quite time-killing and, hence, air routes are advisable. However, for reaching nearby cities, cabs and buses work well.

While inside the city of Hai Noi, people can also rent bikes, scooters, and cars to travel short distances. Cycle rickshaws are also popular for traveling very short distances. They are a pocket-friendly way of traveling around the city and give you access to sight-seeing while traveling.

Things to do in HA NOI

• Visit the Old Part of the City: Ha Noi has a beautiful history that is embedded in the nooks and corners of the older part of the city. From artistic architectures to local cuisine, the old Ha Noi is the heart of Vietnamese elegance. Of course, the roads are too congested and the pavements are used as parking lots; however, the charm of walking past the crowd, observing the local people, and shopping your heart out at affordable prices should not be missed.

• Rest by Kiem Lake: Kiem Lake has a rich significance in the tales passed on in Vietnam. Translated as the Lake of the Restored Sword, Kiem Lake offers a breathtaking landscape where you can sit down to rest, have lunch, interact with people and spend time with your loved ones. It is an interesting place to talk to the growing Vietnamese teenagers and learn more about their culture as they walk down the banks of this lake hoping to practice speaking English with foreigners.

• Explore the Night Market: Ha Noi has a bustling lifestyle that can be best explored at the night market. If you are lucky enough to stay there on Friday, Saturday or Sunday nights, you should not miss this opportunity. At the night market, you will be able to walk down the streets and purchase anything that you missed out during the day owing to sight-seeing and more. Besides, the night market is a splendid place to try out the local cuisine made fresh to you on the streets.

• Take a Boat Ride at Night: If you are traveling with your better half, a bit of added romance is always the sugar on the top of any vacation. Explore the waterways by Ha Noi on a luxurious or an affordable boat. Spend the night gazing at the stars from the deck, dancing to the musical tunes of the live band, or even a candlelight dinner. The hospitality of the Vietnamese locals will ensure your experience is wonderful.

Places to See in HA NOI

• Imperial Citadel of Thang Long: You must have checked out the unique architectures of Vietnam from the past while planning your vacation. If you want to match that vision with reality, you must visit the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long. Constructed as a prominent political campus that governed Vietnam for 8 centuries, this UNESCO World Heritage Site with its lush green lawn against the backdrop of the clear blue sky is breathtaking. You will be mesmerized gazing at the flag on its highest tower and reflect on the power that was enclosed within its walls in the past.

• Water Puppet Theatre: Asian culture has a huge influence on puppet dance as this art has been preserved and passed on with every generation. The art of puppet dance has a unique adaptation in Vietnam that can be best observed at a Water Puppet Theatre. At a puppet theatre, you can be a spectator and watch the puppets dance on the water while their masters narrate the legendary tales using their skills. This is an attractive entertainment that both kids and adults love. Thus, if you are visiting Ha Noi, don’t forget to step into Thank Long Puppet Theatre, the best one yet, and see the inanimate objects come to life.

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: The importance of the leader, Ho Chi Minh, in the pages of the history of Vietnam, is incomparable. Thus, his death did not erase him from the hearts of the locals. Today, his decayed body lays at his mausoleum in Ha Noi. His mausoleum is the place where the Vietnamese pay respect to one of the greatest personalities of the world. Thus, this international personality has been gifted a beautiful mausoleum built to resemble the mausoleum of Lenin but with a cultural touch.

• Ha Noi Opera House: Vietnam was under French rule for a long time. Hence, Ha Noi, the capital, has beautiful French relics and architectural wonders left behind by the French colonists. Of them, Ha Noi Opera House requires prominent mention. This opera house was built keeping the ornate beauty of the Paris Opera in mind in 1911. Thus, you can perceive that the romanticism of French culture can be experienced in Ha Noi itself. This is a wonderful place that you must visit.

Ho Chi Minh City Overview

Ho Chi Minh City, named after the legendary person himself, is a city that speaks of progress with tradition embedded in its soul. Ho Chi Minh has a rich history that unfurls the story of the Vietnamese rise and fall. Over the years, with the change in powers, Ho Chi Minh City has acquired the name by which it is referred to today. However, the local people still prefer to address it as Saigon, the initial name of this part of Vietnam that has stories that will captivate the hearts of all.

Hence, Ho Chi Minh City displays an amalgamation of architecture, art, and culture. The growth of the business has indeed erected some of the finest skyscrapers in this city. However, the traditional pagodas of this region and the intricate architecture by the French colonists have not been lost. Ho Chi Minh City, therefore, surprises its guests at every turn by revealing beautiful sights.

In terms of culture too, the people have adapted to their traditions from Vietnam, China, and France. This is why the restaurants serve delectable local Vietnamese cuisine along with authentic Chinese and sophisticated French dishes. In short, Ho Chi Minh City is a celebration of humanity born out of the best of some of the best cultures in the world.

Accessibility to Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is booming with business all year round. And, having an airport close to this city is inevitable. Located just 6 km away from the central hub of the city is the Tan Son Nhat Airport. This airport is connected to most of the Asian prime locations like China, Japan, Philippines, India, Korea and more. Apart from the Asian countries, certain European and Middle Eastern countries may be located; however, expecting a direct or a connecting flight to Ho Chi Minh can be expensive. It is better to reach Ha Noi, the capital of Vietnam, and board flight to Ho Chi Minh City from Ha Noi to cut down on the cost.

While travelling from one part of Vietnam to another, bus routes are recommended as they are faster and convenient. There are train routes as well. However, the permits needed, thorough checking, and underdeveloped railway routes make travelling via train an avoidable experience. While inside the Ho Chi Minh City, people can commute on buses, book taxis, ride bikes, etc. Transport inside the city is not that expensive as long as you don’t fall prey to frauds.

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

• Interact at the Binh Tay Market: Known as the Cholon Chinatown Market, this place showcases the perfect blend of the three cultures – French, Chinese, and Vietnamese. The architecture of the market dates back to 1880s when the French colonists erected a magnificent shopping centre inspired by Western culture. The Chinese occupation later made this market the biggest Chinatown market in Vietnam. And, at present, this market sells goods from both China and Vietnam. Binh Tay Market is perfect for interacting with the locals as they come to shop for the essential groceries and daily needs here. Tourists can also have tasty street food at this marketplace.

• Explore the Chu Chi Tunnels: It is a known fact that while fighting a war, soldiers build underground tunnels where they live, chalk out plans and strategies, escape from one place to another, and try to stay as low and safe as possible. One such attraction can be found in Ho Chi Minh City. The Chu Chi Tunnels date back to the middle of the 20th Century where the Vietnamese soldiers had base camps. The visitors can explore the 120 km stretch of tunnels that contain kitchens, trap doors, living areas, hospitals, offices and more. It is truly an adventure of its own.

• Enjoy the Breeze at Bitexco Tower and Sky Deck: Ho Chi Minh is a city of amalgamation that has added to its modern beauty with a tinge of culture. And, this view can be best obtained if you lounge at the Sky Deck called Alto on Bitexco Tower. This building is the highest in the city and watching the sunset from its deck is a romantic experience. Visitors enjoy their favorite cocktail and international dishes while taking in the breathtaking view of Ho Chi Minh City.

• Pray at Mariamman Hindu Temple: Ho Chi Minh City has nurtured various cultures and religions. One such religion that is still found in this city is Hinduism. At present, the small Hindu community offers their prayers at this sole open Hindu temple, Mariamman Hindu Temple. This temple keeps its doors open to people from different religions and is a symbol of vibrancy of colors in architecture. Tourists visit this temple quite often to seek peace and find tranquility.

Places to See in Ho Chi Minh City

• War Remnants Museum: Vietnam had attained independence after a prolonged struggle. Fighting against the US Army for 30 years was a struggle that can be best visualized at this museum. This museum has enormous displays from the past. The courtyard has a tank, a fighter helicopter, a fighter airplane and more on display and definitely attracts the tourists to step inside. Inside the museum, tourists can get acquainted with certain war equipment, artilleries, photographs, etc. In short, it is a heart touching and educational experience.

• Cao Dai Temple: Cao Dai Temple is a unique representation of people joining from different religious backgrounds to celebrate the union of faith as a whole. This temple is the home to a small group of priests who have embraced the fact that every religion is equal. Caodaists believe in the practice of the best elements extracted from different religions. Thus, visitors can view the worship of the white-robed priests wearing different sashes that symbolize their previous religion.

• Reunification Palace: Reunification Palace is an important structure in the history of Vietnam. When Vietnam was fighting the war against America, this heritage building played an important role. Over the years, what mattered in the warfare was grasping control over this building that housed the most important meets and greets. Hus, when a Vietnamese tanker broke straight into this building in 1975, the war changed its interface. Today, this palace hosts some important events in the country and also opens its gates to the tourists. Walking down the hallways, swirling around the grand halls, peeking into the secret rooms are some attractions that people must not miss.

• Ho Chi Minh Central Post Office: There are French architectural wonders in Vietnam but not all of them are designed by Gustave Eiffel, the designer of the Eiffel Tower. This is a major reason adding to the popularity of the Ho Chi Minh Central Post Office. Built during the French colonial reign in 1891, this post office is still functional and gives people the true taste of travelling in time. Tourists often send postcards and letters from this post office to their loved ones to commemorate the beauty of Gustave’s phenomenal architecture and this, in fact, adds to the glory of this structure’s true purpose.

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Ha Long Bay Overview

It is not every day that tourists come across a beautiful bay that is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ha Long Bay has exceeded expectations and entered its name as one of the most beautiful bays in the world. It is a beautiful location in the northern part of Vietnam that people visit all the year round and take in the grandeur of the emerald blue waters. The sun-kissed greenery all around forming a strong backdrop to highlight the limestone architecture is wonderful.

Ha Long Bay has still retained its natural beauty. Hence, people flock to this nature-loving location to walk among the trees and discover ornate limestone structures. Over the years, the roaring winds and other climatic conditions have helped in erosion. The erosion was so ornately done that Ha Long Bay has been adorned with lifelike structures at present.

These breathtaking natural structures attract tourists from all over the world and beautify the bay to the fullest. Apart from the natural beauty of this place, people can also visit Ha Long City to enjoy some delicacies. There are plenty of fine dining restaurants and rooftop cafes and pubs that let visitors have a gala time with family and friends.

Accessibility to Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay has retained its natural beauty and has not yet been disturbed by the blaring popularity of every kind of transport. The easiest way to reach Ha Long Bay is to travel via Ha Noi. Tourists can reach the capital, Ha Noi, from different parts of the world via air routes. After that, they can take a bus or book a car that will travel to Ha Long which is located at a driving distance of 165 km from Ha Noi.

Another option is traveling via Hai Phong. As Hai Phong is approximately 75 km away from Ha Long, it is a faster mode of communication. However, it will be easier for international tourists to travel to Ha Long from the capital of Vietnam directly.

After reaching Ha Long City, travelers can halt the night there or take a ferry or a cruise to the bay. It depends on how much the tourist can afford to spend as spending nights on a cruise can burn a hole in the pocket. Inside the city, buses, taxis, bikes, etc. ensure a comfortable commute.

Things to do Ha Long Bay

• Go on a Romantic Cruise: Ha Long Bay has been blessed with abundant beauty. And, experiencing that beauty is incomplete without opting for a cruise. Several tourist agencies offer cruise packages to visitors. The price per person depends on plenty of things. For tourists who want a candlelight dinner organized along with a honeymoon suite on a cruise, the price will be on the higher side. There are cheaper options also that cut down on luxury and international cuisines as local food items are easily available there. Another important factor is choosing the destination. Of more than 2000 islands at this bay, tourists need to research well and choose the trip to enjoy the most of this region.

• Go Hiking to Hang Sung Sot Cave: It is a known fact that the winds have carved out majestic formations at Ha Long Bay. This can be witnessed at Hang Sung Sot Cave. This cave is located on Bon Hon Island and can be reached easily on a ferry. The path to the opening of the cave is steep and is not recommended for people with leg injuries. However, the effort put in to reach the cave does not go into waste as the view makes up for it. The cave, at present, is fitted with artificial lights that bring out the prominent natural architectural pieces of evidence to the forefront. It is a sight people crave for even in their dreams.

• Dive and Explore the World Underneath: Ha Long Bay, with its clear emerald waters, offers perfect clarity suitable for diving and snorkeling. Most of the popular islands have got diving schools that encourage visitors to explore what lies beneath the sparkling waters. The instructors are well-trained and certified. Hence, even beginners can safely indulge in this adventure sport and swim around the natural grottoes under the water.

• Cycle and Visit Beaches: Ha Long Bay indeed covers a huge area. Some visitors prefer exploring on their own but hiking is not a convenient option if they are short of time. This is when cycling comes into play. There are bike rentals available that tourists can easily afford. Cycling amidst the natural green foliage with the soothing breeze caressing the face is heavenly. At the end of the bike ride, dropping down at a beach shack, listening to local music, and enjoying a gala dinner sounds truly fun.

Places to see in Ha Long Bay

• Floating Villages: Exploring the countryside is always breathtaking because of the views. And, what if that same countryside floats on water? This is possible at Ha Long Bay by visiting the four remaining floating villages. Of them, the most popular one is Vung Vieng Fishing Village. This is an ideal place to try out fishing techniques, learn how to sew fishing net, get familiar with the local culture and watch the incomparable scenic beauty all around.

• Cat Ba Island: Ha Long Bay has numerous islands. Of them, Cat Ba Island is the biggest and has a lot of attractions. The natural beauty surrounding the island is exquisite. The trails offer challenging hiking experiences to both experts and novices. There are luxurious hotels that offer exotic delicacies and beach extravaganzas. Tourists can also take part in adventure sports during their leisure time that will make their trip memorable.

• Ban Chan Beach: Ha Long Bay is a popular tourist destination and exploring the beaches with complete privacy is quite difficult. Nevertheless, tourists can sail down to Ban Chan Beach to enjoy the serenity of the beautiful surroundings. The emerald waters are perfect for quick swim or underwater diving and snorkeling. Tourists can also have fun playing beach volleyball, building sand castles, and more. This beach is also perfect for newly-wed couples as they would get more privacy comparatively and would be able to enjoy the beautiful sunset in each others’ companies.

• Co To Island: As Ha Long Bay has become a popular tourist attraction, commercialization has reflected on the local culture. This has diminished the authentic experience of enjoying a day at the bay. To know what it truly feels to explore the sandy beaches against the rugged cliffs overlooking the turquoise blue waters, tourists should visit Co To Island. The island is less popular among the tourist agencies because of which pocket-friendly delicious sea food, naturally discovered trails, and the authentic beach experience will turn out to be an inviting experience.

Hoi An Overview

It is not every day that people get to spend time in an ancient town that has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is why a visit to Vietnam is incomplete without planning a day or two of exploration in this legendary town of Hoi An. In terms of lifestyle, the people from Hoi An have a simplistic way of living that has been preserved from the days of the past when trading was the biggest source of income here. This town is recognized for its trading activities conducted peacefully at its port. Though it is not functional as the main port of Vietnam today, the people have still retained their signature and that attracts tourists from all over the world.

Hoi An is the town of love. Hoi An is the town to mingle. Hoi An is the town to experience the rustic ambience of this ancient town. It is a wonderful place to rest on the sea beach and watch your kids play. It is a wonderful place to walk hand in hand with your partner and watch the sun set over the distant horizon. In short, this is a blissful place that tourists must visit during their stay in Vietnam.

Accessibility to Hoi An

The ancient town of Hoi An is a preserved place and the authentic culture has been kept fastened in the vicinity of this city. Thus, the trace of the ultra-modern lifestyle is not easily found. There are no airports or railway stations in Hoi An. Because of this, travelling by road is the most convenient option.

The closest airport is located at the town of Da Nang where flights land and take off daily from prominent centers such as Ho Chi Minh City, Ha Noi, etc. There is a railway station too at Da Nang. However, railways routes are time-consuming and this is not a wise option. Upon reaching Da Nang, tourists can board buses or hire taxis to reach Hoi An. There are ferry rides available to Hoi An too. However, carrying a lot of luggage and travelling by ferry ride can be a little uncomfortable.

Once inside the town, tourists can commute on buses, taxis, and motorbikes. Travelling inside the town is affordable. It is to be kept in mind that certain parts of the old town have restricted entry. In those places, modern transportation is prohibited. Hence, tourists would have to explore those areas on foot.

Things to do in Hoi An

• Learn to Cook Vietnamese Dishes: Vietnamese food is truly delicious. And, tourists often fall in love with the local cuisine so much that they feel like cooking it themselves. This is where cooking classes come into play. Several popular restaurants at the ancient town of Hoi An organize cooking classes. The schedule of the class varies depending upon the complexity of the dishes and the activities involved. All these classes are monitored by professional chefs themselves, and, hence, tourists get to take back the palatable taste of Vietnam when they return home.

• Get Tailor-Made Clothes: Vietnam is quite traditional yet fashionable. And, the best part is that quite a lot of this originates in Hoi An. Hoi An has numerous tailors who cut out the best garments and sow them to fit the customers perfectly. From modern dresses to traditional suits – these tailors can stitch them all. And, they can get clothes tailor-made within 24 hours. This is a splendid opportunity that tourists can grab at affordable prices. They can get gorgeous clothing necessities designed and tailor-fitted in no time.

• Learn to make Handicrafts: Tourists who visit Hoi An will get to see shops selling various handicrafts. Some items can be used on a regular basis and some are good for décor. All these souvenirs cannot just be bought but made by the tourists themselves. Most of these shops are run by non-profit organizations that employ locals to earn a living out of it. The locals are more than happy to show their customers how to make the artifacts and take them back to their loved ones.

• Get Pampered at a Spa: Hoi An has many local spas where trained professionals have been serving from one generation to another. These spas charge lesser than the ones inside posh hotels and offer equivalently good experiences. Tourists can book an appointment at any of these spas and experience the process of relaxation in the Vietnamese style. Getting pampered during the vacation that involves a lot of hectic journeys will surely feel good.

Places to see in Hoi An

• Tan Ky House: Hoi An is an ancient village that used to thrive on trade and commerce in the past. Tourists from all over the world have an interest in knowing what the lives of those rich merchants would have been like in the best. This can be best visualized by visiting the Tan Ky House. This family house was built in the 18th Century inspired by Vietnam’s authentic architectural style. Even today, the house is furnished beautifully decorated with ornate artifacts that have been used by nine generations of this influential family.

• Japanese Bridge: This unique bridge was constructed in the 16th Century to establish a warm relationship of trade and commerce between the merchants of Japan and China. The bridge is greatly inspired by the Japanese style of architecture with subtle elements to narrate certain historical pieces of evidence from the yellowed pages of Japan. This covered bridge also has a Buddhist temple and this construction makes it absolutely unique in the world.

• Mia Coffee: It is essential to get the taste of the local beverages. And, the ancient town of Hoi An has been cultivating coffee for centuries. This preserved technique generates some best-handpicked coffee beans that are processed and made into delicious coffee at Mia Coffee. This rustic taste of coffee attracts coffee connoisseurs from all over the world as is a popular tourist attraction.

• Lantern Market: Some of the best Vietnamese lanterns handmade by the locals are available for sale at this night market popularly known as the Lantern Market. Most of the lanterns are woven with silk and has various Vietnamese symbolisms crafted on the surface. The market looks ravishing as the lanterns glow at night creating a universe of their own.

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Vietnam- Overview

Accessibility to Vietnam

History of Vietnam

HA NOI - Overview

Accessibility to HA NOI

Things to do in HA NOI

Places to See in HA NOI

Ho Chi Minh City Overview

Accessibility to Ho Chi Minh City

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

Places to See in Ho Chi Minh City

Ha Long Bay Overview

Accessibility to Ha Long Bay

Things to do Ha Long Bay

Places to see in Ha Long Bay

Hoi An Overview

Accessibility to Hoi An

Things to do in Hoi An

Places to see in Hoi An

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