54 ethnic groups
Vietnam, with its 54 ethnic groups, is the most culturally diverse country in Southeast Asia. The Vietnamese are the largest group, accounting for 86% of the population, while the remainder mainly live in mountainous regions with simple yet distinctive rural lifestyles. Sa Pa in the northern hills is a popular stop for tourists wishing to visit traditional markets and ethnic minority villages, as well as enjoy hiking and sightseeing. Ha Giang province, further northeast, is less developed but boasts a richer mix of ethnic groups. Visit the excellent Vietnam Museum of Ethnology in Hanoi for a more comprehensive exploration of this field.
On the Oolong tea hills in the O Quy Ho pass, Sa Pa
Paradise Island
Phu Quoc, Vietnam's resort island, was largely undeveloped and unknown 20 years ago. Things have changed rapidly, and it's now a popular destination with developed infrastructure including luxury hotels, restaurants, and diverse tourist activities (snorkeling, scuba diving, motorbike rentals to explore the forests and hills). However, its core charm remains intact: white sandy beaches (especially on the west coast), warm waters, spectacular sunsets, and a relaxed atmosphere. Further south, visitors should head to Hon Thom for its impressive archipelago views and what is believed to be the world's longest undersea cable.
Hon Thom Sea Cable
Ha Long Bay
Visitors will not be disappointed, provided they plan carefully. If you can afford it, book a luxury small boat and head east to Bai Tu Long Bay, explore the floating village of Cua Van, swim out to the deserted island and enjoy the unique natural scenery...
Hanoi
Hanoi is key to understanding modern Vietnam. Your budget might be limited to staying at the elegant Sofitel Metropole, one of the world's finest historic hotels, but you can still stop by for lunch or afternoon tea. This location will take you to the Hanoi Opera House, a short walk to the tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake, the bustling Old Quarter, green parks, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and Ho Chi Minh's stilt house... And don't forget to sample the delicious street food when you visit Hanoi.
Hoi An
Like a miniature Venice, this ancient trading port on the Thu Bon River is a bustling tourist attraction but also a tranquil and romantic retreat. Old wooden houses are packed with diners and drinkers in the old quarter. During the day, visitors can enjoy bike tours of the nearby countryside, spend a leisurely day on Cua Dai beach, or visit the My Son sanctuary…
Cat Tien National Park
Tigers once roamed Vietnam's lush tropical forests, and the country boasts a rich fauna. However, habitats were largely destroyed during the war, a process that continues through logging and commercial planting. But Cat Tien, located more than 100 km from Ho Chi Minh City, offers tropical rainforest protection for several mammal species, including elephants and civets, and is home to 350 bird species, making it one of the best birdwatching spots in Southeast Asia.
Ho Chi Minh City
Wild, frenetic… crowded streets and chaotic, relentless traffic – this is Vietnam’s most vibrant city. The best way to experience the city is to immerse yourself in its streets and alleys, on foot (be brave and daring when crossing the road) or by car, motorbike… Notable destinations include Ben Thanh Market and Cholon Market, Chinatown…
War and Peace
Most tour itineraries include a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, often as part of a day trip north of Ho Chi Minh City. Alternatively, there are day trips from Hue to Khe Sanh, the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), and the Vinh Moc fishing community. During the war, villagers dug tunnels deep underground to protect themselves from bombs and bullets. Visitors can access thousands of meters of tunnels in this area.
Tourists visit the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City.
Mekong Delta
Thankfully, plans to build a large amusement park in the delta called "Happyland" were cancelled, and the charm of these areas remains the simple beauty of river life, floating markets, and fertile farmland. Visitors can take boat tours, but it's best to stay a day or two to mingle with local families in Vinh Long.
Con Dao
Con Dao, a cluster of 16 small islands off the southern coast, is perhaps where Phu Quoc, just a decade ago, had only one inhabited island, Con Son. It boasts stunning beaches, snorkeling, inland jungle trekking, and birdwatching. The small island town, with its French-style buildings, is very relaxed and increasingly offers accommodations, including the ultra-luxurious Six Senses resort.
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