13 essential Vietnam experiences
- Group 3 Class 4
- 20 thg 10, 2022
- 4 phút đọc
Đã cập nhật: 20 thg 10, 2022
When it comes to variety, Vietnam is in a league of its own.
A trip to the capital, Hanoi, will be wildly different than modern Ho Chi Minh City, just as the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An vary dramatically from the nearby citadels of Hue.
Then there are the tea plantations, coffee farms, stunning bays, caves and coastlines — all promising distinct adventures.
Lest we forget the food. Vietnam is home to some of the freshest and most delicious cuisine on Earth — one steamy bowl of pho devoured on a plastic stool, and you’ll understand.
From can’t-miss essentials to adventurous side trips, we’ve shortlisted a few of the most memorable experiences in Vietnam:
Light a lantern in Hoi An
As one of the most beautiful destinations in Asia, Hoi An promises no shortage of photogenic scenes. But none is more mesmerizing than the Full Moon Lantern Festival.
At this monthly festival, the city shuts off its electric lights to let thousands of rainbow-hued lanterns glow against an inky black sky — both throughout the little lanes of Old Town as well as on the Thu Bon River.
Held to honor the full moon, the festival takes place along Old Town’s waterfront promenade, where music, games and entertainment energize the atmosphere.
Alternatively, travelers can hire a sampan boat to glide along the water for a quieter experience.
Either way, it’s easy to take part: You’ll simply need to purchase a paper lantern and candle for a couple of dollars — depending on your bargaining skills — light the candle, set it inside, then send it down stream accompanied by wishes for happiness and luck.
Search for the best pho in Hanoi
A taste of pho is a must on every journey, whether it’s your first time or your 50th.
Hanoi is located in northern Vietnam, which is thought to be the birthplace of the de facto national dish, so it makes sense to start your search for the best bowls in the capital.
Wedged between grand colonial French buildings in the labyrinthine Old Quarter, the best pho shops are often the most unassuming, filled with modest furniture, if any at all, and epic cauldrons of bubbling broth.
We’ll give you a couple hints: Hanoi institutions like Pho Gia Truyen (49 Bat Dan, Old Quarter) or Pho Thin (13 Lo Duc, Ngo Thi Nham) should satisfy your pho cravings.
Trace history in Ho Chi Minh City
An estimated 2 million Vietnamese civilians died in the Vietnam War (called the American War in Vietnam), which was fought across nearly two decades from 1954 to 1975.
No matter where you’re from, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the country’s recent history to better understand, and appreciate, modern Vietnam.
We’d recommend spending a few hours at Hoi Chi Minh City’s museums and monuments to commemorate lives lost in the war and better understand the conflict.
The War Remnants Museum, opened in 1975, traces several wars through graphic photographs and military equipment — including a collection of helicopters, tanks and fighter jets — as well as reproductions of prison conditions, accounts of chemical warfare and a French guillotine.
Ride the Reunification Express
The Reunification Express offers a unique opportunity to experience Vietnam’s wonderful diversity.
It might not be the fastest way to get around, but the Reunification Express (officially known as the North-South Railway) is certainly the most scenic.
This 1,072-mile rail line chugs from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, passing countless landscapes and landmarks along the 35-hour journey.
There are several different cabin options on the train, including sleeper cabins for those making the full journey.
More commonly, travelers will take the opportunity to hop on and off the train across several days to explore the country’s beautiful natural scenery and historic towns.
A few of the highlights include Van Long Nature Reserve in Ninh Binh, where magnificent rice paddies and limestone scenery await, the ancient imperial city of Hue, and the beach town of Nha Trang on the central coastline.
Take an aerial tour of Halong Bay
Halong Bay is considered one of the most breathtaking destinations in Vietnam, and it’s easy to see why.
The jade-toned bay is home to thousands of limestone islands, mysterious caves and wildlife.
Most travelers tour this natural wonder aboard a cruise, but now there’s another way to explore: by helicopter.
Launched earlier this year, Halong Heli Tours showcases the unique seascape from on high.
Travelers can choose from eight- to 40-minute sightseeing tours that soar over the bay’s many islands, beaches and fishing villages.
While you’re in the region, we’d also recommend a detour to Bai Tu Long or Lan Ha bays — Halong Bay’s lesser-known neighbors — where you can kayak, swim and trek in near total seclusion.
Beach hop in Phu Quoc
If clear water and powder-soft sand sounds right up your alley, Vietnam’s “Pearl Island” is for you.
Located in the Gulf of Thailand off the southwest coast, Phu Quoc promises dozens of beaches in all sizes and shades.
Among them, Sao Beach is often praised as one of the best in Vietnam thanks to its clear water, palm trees and sugar-white sand.
Ong Lang beach, on the west coast, tends to be quieter and more rustic — the kind of place where you’re more likely to share the water with a wandering cow or local fishing boat than other travelers.
Come sunset, snag a spot on Long Beach to enjoy the island’s famously fiery sunset alongside chilled beers and live music.
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