Vietnam is a country of captivating natural beauty, magnificent temples and shrines, and some of the most beautiful beaches in Southeast Asia. The country’s rich culture appeals to many travelers, although it is particularly intriguing to Americans because of our shared tragedy of war. In the decades since the historic conflict, Vietnam has unified and changed. It is now an oasis of harmony and peace, as well as a top foodie destination. Tourism infrastructure is developing rapidly and it’s one of the best travel bargains in Asia, so now is the time for savvy travelers to visit Vietnam.
Recommended Vietnam Itinerary
For an insightful look into this fascinating country, we recommend journeying from North to South. Begin with the colonial charm of the capital Hanoi and the sweeping vistas of Halong Bay in the north. Continue on to Hue and the quaint, UNESCO-listed Hoi An of the central region, then travel south to Ho Chi Minh City.
Northern Vietnam
Although Hanoi is the modern-day capital, the narrow lanes, colorful markets, and traditional workshops of the Old Quarter retain the charm of centuries past. Visit the sprawling Ho Chi Minh Memorial Complex to see the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum where the leader’s embalmed body is enshrined. Look in the widows of the preserved Ho Chi Minh Stilt House where he lived from 1958 through his last days in 1969. Visit the architecturally graceful Temple of Literature, which was founded in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius.
You’ll see many temples and pagodas in Hanoi. Pagodas (chua) are dedicated to Buddha and, often, to various Hindu gods and avatars. Temples (den) are built to memorialize historical figures, especially kings, emperors and victorious generals. They are frequently built next to or inside pagodas. Prayers and incense are offered at pagodas, but not at temples. Travel Maestro tip: Be sure to wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees when visiting temples.
Beyond sightseeing in Hanoi, do plan to see a water puppet show. This variation on an ancient tradition began as entertainment when the rice paddies flooded and is unique to northern Vietnam. Travel Maestro tip: To truly engage with the local culture, ask your Covington vacation advisor to arrange a private dinner in a local home where you can enjoy good food and conversation with your hosts.
After two or three days of activity in Hanoi, it’s time to relax on a serene cruise through the magical beauty of Halong Bay where dramatic limestone monoliths jut straight up out of the water. Take a day cruise aboard a Chinese junk or spend one or two nights aboard a luxury ship where you’ll savor delicious Vietnamese food, learn how to make traditional spring rolls, practice Tai Chi on the sundeck, and swim or kayak among the limestone islands.
While in the northern part of Vietnam, if you’re up for a physical challenge, trek the hills and valleys around Sapa and experience the colorful hill tribe villages. The terrain can be steep and challenging, so you must be physically fit and have good footwear. If you’re not up for the trek, stay in Sapa where the tribes bring their superb textiles and needlecrafts to the weekend markets to sell. Travel Maestro tip: Know that some of the tribes will not allow their picture to be taken. Always ask first.
Central Vietnam
Fly south to Hoi An, a picturesque river town that was a major international port from the 17th- to 19th-centuries. A walking tour of the UNESCO town’s highlights should include the Japanese Bridge built in 1593, the 200-year-old Tran Family Chapel, and a silk lantern making workshop.
The city of Hue (pronounced hway) straddles the Perfume River, named after the scented shrub that grows there. Along the river banks are some impressive tombs of Nguyen Dynasty emperors (1802 – 1945). Hire a longboat to take you from one to the next and wait while you explore. Be sure to see Tu Duc (an extensive site with lots of character), Minh Mang (a large and very well-preserved site), Khai Dinh (modest in scale but quite ostentatious), and the Thien Mu Pagoda (a lovely, seven-tiered structure surrounded by gardens). Travel Maestro tip: Hue is also a good base from which to explore the historical sites of the Demilitarized Zone. You’ll want a local guide.
Southern Vietnam
Fly south to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon when it was the capital of South Vietnam. Modern life meets tradition in this vibrant, growing city that’s in constant motion and abuzz with 6.5 million motorbikes, yet has nearly 200 old-style temples and pagodas.
In the historic center, view the European-style landmarks such as the Hotel De Ville and the Opera House (exterior only) and the Notre Dame Cathedral. Visit Reunification Palace, formerly the Independence Palace of the South Vietnam president. A visit to the War Remnants Museum with its comprehensive documentation of the Vietnam War is a powerful experience. Travel Maestro tip: About 25 miles from the city are the Cu Chi tunnels, an extensive network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong. A few sections of the tunnels are open to the public.
Ho Chi Minh City is also the gateway to the Mekong Delta where flourishing markets, lush rice fields, and fruit and flower orchards prevail. Travel Maestro tip: Do be sure to include a day tour to visit the famous floating markets and the local cottage industries at the Mekong River Islands.
When to Go
Vietnam stretches over 1,200 miles from north to south and there are three separate climate zones: north, central, and south. In the north and south, tropical monsoon season is from May to September; in the central region, it’s from October to April. Those rainy seasons are also the hottest, with temperatures up to 105°F. The high season (meaning best weather) is from September to March. Travel Maestro tip: Avoid the Tet holidays (Vietnamese New Year) in late January and February because hotels and transportation will be completely booked with local travelers.
The vacation experts at Covington have a network of local contacts in Vietnam and Southeast Asia. We design custom vacation packages, especially for your interests and budget. Contact Covington today to start planning your trip.
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