Hoi An is a historic riverside town on Vietnam's central coast, around 30 kilometres south of Da Nang. Once a prosperous trading port, the town is home to a remarkably well-preserved Old Town designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with ochre-coloured buildings, ornate temples, wooden merchant houses and atmospheric lantern-lit streets. The town offers a distinctive blend of Vietnamese, Chinese and Japanese influences, reflected in its architecture, cuisine and traditions. Travellers can wander the narrow lanes, explore the bustling market, take a boat along the Thu Bon River or cycle through the surrounding countryside and rice paddies. Hoi An is also known for its tailors, making it popular for custom-made clothing, while nearby An Bang Beach offers an opportunity to combine cultural sightseeing with time on the coast.
Beguiling and beautiful, the former capital of Vietnam is still revered as a cultural and religious centre, and achieved UNESCO World Heritage status in 1993. The city owes its charm in part to its setting on the Perfume River, but more significantly, to its many ancient temples and palaces – all vestiges of the last remaining Vietnamese dynasty, the Nguyen dynasty. The 19th century Hue Citadel, otherwise known as The Imperial City, should be high on your ‘to-see' list (you will need a day to get through the entire complex); while scattered along the riverbank are myriad more shrines and stupa, including the Thien Mu Pagoda with its octagonal tower. Bathe in a number of mineral hot springs, take a boat trip along the river, or take a ‘food tour’ of the superb eateries in town.
With its wide boulevards, ancient pagodas and tree-lined lakes, Vietnam’s capital is also the country’s most atmospheric and beguiling city. There is an energy and charm here arising from the genteel mix of French colonialism and Asian grace and tradition. Enjoy a showcase of synchronised t’ai chi at Hoan Kiem Lake; stroll around the lively Old Quarter with its narrow streets with traders and hoards of scooters weaving in and out, and don’t miss the chance to see a water puppetry show at the Thang Long Puppet Theatre. Other places to visit include the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, the Perfume Pagoda temple complex and the Hanoi Opera House in the heart of the French Quarter.
Scattered across the South China Sea off the eastern coast of northern Vietnam, Lan Ha Bay is a spectacular seascape renowned for its emerald waters, secluded beaches, and dramatic limestone karsts. Bordering the famous Ha Long Bay, it offers a quieter, less crowded alternative without compromising on natural beauty. More than 400 limestone islands and towering cliffs rise from the tranquil waters, creating a breathtaking setting best explored by traditional junk boat or luxury cruise. Visitors can spend unforgettable days sailing through this enchanting landscape, discovering hidden lagoons, floating fishing villages, and secluded coves. The bay also offers excellent opportunities for kayaking, swimming, snorkelling, caving, rock climbing, trekking, and cycling on nearby Cát Bà Island. Combining spectacular scenery with a peaceful atmosphere, Lan Ha Bay promises an unforgettable experience in one of Vietnam's most beautiful coastal regions.
As previously described
The isolated rural district of Mai Chau lies tucked away in an idyllic valley in northern Vietnam. The area is known for its excellent hiking and biking opportunities as well as its picturesque pastoral landscape and laidback village lifestyle. The district’s capital city, also known as Mai Chau, is commonly used as a springboard for exploring the area’s many traditional villages which are famous for their stilt houses featuring palm leaf roofs, bamboo-slat floors, and large, patterned windows. For a wonderfully authentic Vietnamese experience, visitors can enjoy an overnight homestay in one of these stilted houses where they can interact with the locals and learn about their traditions and customs.
Luang Prabang is a historic town in northern Laos, set at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers and surrounded by forested mountains. A UNESCO World Heritage-listed destination, it is renowned for its well-preserved Buddhist temples, French colonial architecture and relaxed riverside atmosphere. Travellers can explore ornate monasteries, climb Mount Phousi for panoramic views, and visit the Kuang Si waterfalls, where turquoise pools cascade through lush jungle. Early risers can witness the traditional alms-giving ceremony, while the lively night market offers local handicrafts and Lao cuisine. With its blend of spiritual heritage, natural beauty and unhurried pace, Luang Prabang provides a distinctive introduction to Laos and is particularly appealing to travellers seeking culture, scenery and authentic local experiences.
Best known as the gateway to the magnificent ancient temple complex of Angkor Wat, Siem Reap is a pleasant town with lovely French colonial and Chinese architecture and a laid-back ambience. The main attraction here is of course the Angkor complex. Covering an area larger than Paris, it encompasses scores of exquisite temple structures featuring intricately carved detail – dancing ladies and lotus flowers embellish the walls, five-headed naga (serpent deities) fan out from chunks of rock. Abandoned for unknown reasons thousands of years ago, it was rediscovered in 1860 by a French explorer, Henri Mahout, and has been Cambodia’s crowning glory ever since. Other attractions in and around Siem Reap include an array of arts and crafts shops, a cultural village that allows a glimpse into traditional local life, and a bird sanctuary on the outskirts of town.
