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Vietnam is a beautiful country packed with things to do and sights to see. Its natural beauty is truly a sight to behold, and the welcoming charm of the local people makes it a must-visit destination if you’re traveling in Asia.
To help you get your planning started, check out this mini guide to make the most of your time in the country:
1. Visit the Lantern Festival in Hoi An
Every year, Vietnam celebrates Every Tết, which is a celebration of the Vietnamese New Year. During this celebration, the vibrant destination of Hoi An comes alive with color and light as they host the annual Lantern Festival. You’ll see thousands of lanterns throughout the festival, which lasts for five days, and the main spectacle of the event is when the lanterns are placed in the river in a beautiful flickering display. You can also hire a sampan boat and immerse yourself in the beauty of the occasion.
2. Take a boat trip in Halong Bay
If you’re looking at Vietnam holiday packages, be sure to add a boat trip to the captivating natural beauty spot of Halong Bay. This area is considered to be one of the best places to visit in the country, and it’s not hard to see why. The scenery speaks for itself, with limestone towers commanding the view and azure waters sparkling in the sunshine. Don’t forget to try the seafood here too, as you can sample fresh catch of the day and tasty local dishes.
3. Hop on a bike around Hue
Located between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, is the beautiful destination of Hue. This spot is rich in history and has some of the most beautiful sights to admire. Hire a bike here and start off nice and early to cycle to Vong Canh Hill. Once you reach this spot, it’s an excellent opportunity to see panoramic views of the Perfume River. Plus, there are so many other places to see on your cycle, including the tomb of Minh Mangl and the Imperial Citadel.
4. Sample the best Pho in Hanoi
One of the main reasons that people visit Vietnam is to experience some of the best street food and local dishes on offer. Pho is a dish that is renowned in the country and has made waves across the globe. Hanoi is said to be the capital of Pho dishes, and you’re never short of places to taste this delicious food. Every restaurant boasts its own style and secret recipe, so why not try a few different places to get a feel for your favorites.
5. Visit the world’s largest cave
Close to the border of Laos, you’ll find the raw and unspoiled jungle location of Phong Nha. In this spot, you’ll discover a myriad of caving adventures within the world’s largest cave, Hang Son Doong. It’s so tall, a skyscraper could fit inside it! The area is the perfect place to trek the forest, and you can hire guides to take you to the best and most beautiful spots.