What does an Australian tourist who has explored Vietnam 14 times write about this destination?

With a population of 100 million, this Asian country is developing at a breakneck pace that few nations can match. I observed this last March while traveling throughout Vietnam, from south to north, from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An, Da Nang, Hue, and Hanoi .

This is my 14th trip to this country, but my first in four years. Vietnam is so vibrant that during my absence, even ancient sites have changed, not to mention the increasingly modernized cities.

The bustling cities were so intense that, within a week, they comfortably exhausted me. To recharge, I combined urban adventures with excursions to the peaceful Vietnamese countryside. There, I drifted along rivers, dozed on smooth beaches, hiked on tranquil mountain trails, played on superb golf courses, and wandered through jungles containing the ruins of historical kingdoms.

With Vietjet launching new direct flights to Vietnam from Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne, along with Bamboo Airways (Sydney and Melbourne), I believe this is the perfect time for Australian travelers to explore these five amazing cities.

Hoi An

Hoi An ancient town in the morning by the Hoai River.

Few ancient towns in Southeast Asia can rival Hoi An. As one of Vietnam's most popular tourist destinations, this UNESCO-protected town undeniably offers photogenic moments of tranquility, especially in the evenings when the setting sun gives way to the colorful glow of thousands of paper lanterns. These lanterns hang from the town's villas, shops, and temples, some dating back 400 years. Highlights include the 16th-century Japanese Bridge, the vibrant Phap Bao Pagoda, and the Tan Ky Heritage House.

Hoi An's iconic lanterns make wonderful souvenirs. Visitors can buy them at the night market or design their own at handicraft workshops…

Leaving the bustling center of Hoi An, visitors should take time to find peace in the My Son sanctuary, located about 30 km from Hoi An.

Da Nang

Da Nang is a friendly city, home to 1.2 million people, with many great attractions and shopping options, a vibrant nightlife, and a wide range of accommodation choices.

Da Nang is modern, well-organized, clean, peaceful, has little traffic, and is surrounded by the magnificent beauty of nature, with the coast to the east and lush green hills to the west.

Located 1,500 meters above sea level on a mountain 45 minutes west of Da Nang, Ba Na Hills Resort enhances the city's appeal for families. Parents can enjoy affordable spas, the luxurious Ba Na Hills Golf Club, and wine tastings at the Debay wine cellar...

The Golden Bridge is consistently mentioned in international media as one of the world's most beautiful bridges.

Children will love Sun World Ba Na Hills, a massive resort and amusement park with thrilling rides, indoor climbing, and a wax museum. Meanwhile, teenagers can fill their social media with unique photos from many photogenic locations. These include five cable car lines, Le Jardin D'Amour garden, a recreated French village, and the magnificent Golden Bridge.

Hue

While most Vietnamese cities have looked to the future, Hue remains deeply rooted in its past heritage. Eight decades after the end of its long period as the capital of the feudal regime, this central coastal city still revolves around the Imperial Citadel, one of Asia's most beautiful royal palaces.

Hue Imperial Citadel

Hue's appeal to tourists is now even greater thanks to newly opened walkways along the outer city walls (Upper Citadel). From there, visitors can look east to the bustling Dong Ba Market, west to Thien Mu Pagoda, or south to the museum, shopping area, and Hai Ba Trung food street.

Further on is the direction towards the seven great royal tombs, including the tomb of Emperor Tự Đức, which is a favorite destination for tourists to explore.

Leaving the center of Hue, visitors will arrive at Lang Co beach. This area is not yet overdeveloped, but offers plenty of accommodation, food, and shopping options to avoid boredom. This resort town is located 55 km south of Hue, nestled between the East Sea and the shimmering Lap An lagoon.

Hanoi

Hanoi may be Asia's best destination. Few places can rival its blend of ancient architecture, art galleries, vibrant nightlife, magnificent parks, memorable cuisine, and historical value. For A$200 a day in Hanoi, you can stay in a five-star hotel, enjoy three fine meals, take taxis all over the city, and visit many interesting sights.

The O Quan Chuong city gate, built in 1749, is located east of Thang Long citadel and is the only remaining gate among many gates in Hanoi.

Thang Long Imperial Citadel, Temple of Literature, Quan Su Pagoda (built in the 15th century), Tran Quoc Pagoda (1,500 years old)... are must-see destinations for tourists. In addition, visitors can explore the country's museums to learn more about it.

From Hanoi, visitors can reach the enchanting Sa Pa. Scattered across the mountain slopes, above the emerald green terraced rice fields, this area, located 250 km northwest of Hanoi, offers unforgettable peaceful scenery.

Ho Chi Minh City

Diet-conscious travelers should avoid Ho Chi Minh City, as it's hard to resist the temptation of its cuisine. Every day, you'll leave your hotel and join a city-wide feast.

The Saigon River flows through the heart of the country's most vibrant city.

Tourists can visit places like Cholon Market, take a walk in District 1 to explore the Opera House, Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon Central Post Office… Combine all of this by enjoying the famous broken rice dish.

Leaving the country's most vibrant city, tourists should visit Can Tho to see floating markets such as Phong Dien floating market, located 20 km from the city center, and Cai Rang floating market…

Source link: https://thanhnien.vn/du-khach-uc-14-lan-kham-pha-viet-nam-viet-gi-ve-diem-den-nay-185230812194152962.htm