Vietnam
Vietnam never stands still. From the lantern-lit charm of Hội An to the rooftop buzz of Saigon, this is a country that blends ancient beauty with a modern, free-spirited adventure. Limestone cliffs rise from the water in Hạ Long Bay, and jungle-covered mountains stretch across the north. It’s a place where street food, landscapes and everyday life come together in ways that feel lively, layered and constantly in motion.
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Unmissable Moments
Saigon by Vespa After Dark
Sunset drinks on a rooftop, then you’re straight into it. Riding on the back of a Vespa through Saigon's traffic in the dark before the night closes at a live music venue in the backstreets. This is the best possible introduction to Vietnam. Immediate, chaotic and completely alive, all within hours of landing.
Private Snorkelling at Half-Moon Reef and Coral Mountain
A private speedboat out of An Thoi Port to reef systems most Phu Quoc visitors never find. Half-Moon Reef first. Golden anemone gardens and coral canyons in water up to nine metres deep. Then Coral Mountain, the largest cactus coral grove on the island in water so clear it barely feels real. The day ends with a cocktail in hand at a secluded island with a beach bar.
Over the Hai Van Pass in an Open-air Jeep
Mountains to your left. Ocean to your right. Climb into an open-air army jeep and take the long way north, tracing one of Vietnam’s most dramatic coastal roads. Hairpin turns. Wind strong enough to make conversation pointless.
Drink Bia Hơi by the Train Tracks
Pull up on tiny plastic stools in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where families still live, cook and drink along an active rail line that’s been running for generations. Sip bia hơi – fresh Vietnamese beer brewed daily – as trains thunder past just metres away, shaking the street and pausing conversation mid-sentence.
Conquer Khau Pha Pass, Vietnam
Climb into the clouds on one of Vietnam’s most dramatic mountain roads. This 30 km stretch winds through steep gradients and endless hairpin bends, rising above 1,200 metres and slicing through mist, cloud and cascading rice terraces. You’ll thread past remote ethnic villages, jagged peaks and valleys that drop away beneath you, before rolling into Sapa’s cool highland air with burning legs and views that feel almost unreal.
More Than Just Lights: The Meaning of Vietnam’s Lanterns
Lanterns hold a special place in Vietnamese culture, symbolizing hope, happiness, and good fortune. Traditionally made from silk and bamboo, they were once used to light homes and temples, but today they shine as icons of beauty and celebration, especially in places like Hội An, where glowing lanterns transform the town every night.
Cheat-Sheet:
MAJOR AIRPORT:
Nội Bài International Airport (Hanoi) & Tân Sơn Nhất International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City)
CURRENCY:
Vietnamese Dong (₫ / VND)
HIGH TRAVEL SEASON:
November to April (cooler, drier weather – perfect for exploring)
LOW TRAVEL SEASON:
May to October (hot, humid, with bursts of monsoon rain and less crowds)
TIPPING CULTURE:
Not expected, but always appreciated, especially in cafés, restaurants, and on tours
HOW TO SAY 'THANK YOU':
Cảm ơn, pronounced roughly like “gahm un” (with a soft, rising tone)
Why we love it
Bart
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