Don't try to do everything in Vietnam - pick a few places and do them well.
Vietnam is an absolute must visit and it’s easy to see why. From its incredible food and welcoming people, to its diverse landscapes and fascinating cities, this long and varied country offers something for almost every kind of traveller.
This is a country where bringing your curiosity, an open mind and an appetite for exploring will lead you to the most wonderful places. The Vietnamese people are amongst the friendliest and most welcoming that I have encountered on all my travels and we found ourselves being welcomed into people’s homes to really understand life from another perspective.
My top recommendation is don’t try to do everything - pick a few places and do them well. This might be focusing on the central coast and southern region or just simply the northern areas. Seasonal weather patterns can make a big difference to your destination in Vietnam, with the time of year determining the best regions to visit.
The country is long (literally) and the choice of places to visit varied. Whether you’re looking for the stunning natural beauty of the northern mountain regions, time on the water in Halong Bay or the Mekong Delta, beach days along the expansive coastline or being enthralled in the hectic pace of cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City - there is something for everyone.
We had a wonderful local guide who made a huge impact on us in Hoi An, by taking us on a bike ride that included a visit to a mat weaver’s home and a wood carving lesson - an off the beaten track experience that immersed us in local life. These special activities do not happen by accident, they happen when you make the choice to slow down to see more of the country.
I can highly recommend the Vietage train by Anantara for a delightful way to see the countryside followed by a few days of bliss by the sea at Anantara Quy Nhon.
Whatever your interests are, Vietnam has something for everyone including families, couples, solo travellers and adventure seekers!
