Vietnam is a wonderfully exotic and diverse country that has been attracting travellers since opening up to tourism in the early nineties. Utterly compelling, this long and slender country situated in the far eastern corner of Indochina, has an incredible heritage, breath taking natural beauty and some stunning colonial architecture that makes it a hard destination to beat. Get here quick though, as Vietnam is modernising rapidly with a much-improved infrastructure, new hotels and ever changing city skylines.
From the French colonial Hanoi, the coastline as you head south is littered with ancient fishing villages, towns and cities, with the glistening beaches and shimmering waters of the South China Sea enticing you. Everywhere you go there are remnants of the war, but don’t be fooled into thinking this is all this country is about. It is a remarkable destination just waiting to be discovered. We have been to Vietnam so at Millington Travel we know where to go and what to do. Call us today to plan your memorable visit to this fantastic country.
Millington Travel’s Top Ten in Vietnam
- Halong Bay. Take an overnight trip on a traditional junk, and see the awe-inspiring sight of thousands of limestone islands rising majestically from the sea.
- Cyclo-Ride in Hanoi – this quintessential Vietnamese mode of transport gives you a close-up view of local frenetic street life and some impressive French colonial architecture such as the Opera House.
- Red River Delta – slow the pace down and take a trip into the countryside up north and experience a lifestyle little changed in centuries.
- Trek around Sapa – This small market town perched on a plateau in the northern mountains facing Fan Si Pan, Vietnams highest peak, is the base for trekking and exploring ethnic minority hill tribe villages.
- Hue – The former capital’s historic citadel, mausoleums and gardens are enough to impress even the most jaded traveller.
- Hoi An – Enchanting Unesco World Heritage listed town, beautifully preserved buildings and narrow streets with some great beaches nearby.
- Cu Chi Tunnels – look out for ‘booby traps’ that local guides reveal at this fascinating tunnel complex a short trip from Ho Chi Minh City.
- The Mekong Delta – Putter down the final stages of the mighty Mekong river system, through classic Vietnamese scenery, rice paddies and all.
- Chill out on Phu Quoc – an unspoilt coconut palm fringed beaches on this lesser known island in the south of the country.
- Bia Hoi (local lager-like draft beer) – these local bars can be found in the back lanes of the old quarter in Hanoi as well as Hoi An – they are a fun, friendly, cheap and great way to mingle with the locals.
When to go?
Vietnam can be visited year round. November to April is the busiest time as this is generally regarded as the dry season. The Monsoon season from May to November is still hot, but humid with afternoon showers. The north is cooler than the south especially from December to February.
