Vietnam is a land of breathtaking contrasts and sensory delights. It is a country that features everything from exotic culinary delights to breathtaking scenery. Seemingly endless, tranquil rice paddies stand in stark contrast to bustling cities such as Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi which embrace all the technology and conveniences that the modern world has to offer. The well-preserved colonial buildings of Hoi An play host to a slew of charming boutiques and tempting cafes while, further north, the local hill-tribe people of Sapa sell a wide variety of exquisite crafts and handmade trinkets. Beyond the urban areas, this diverse country is characterised by vast, verdant jungles and lush mountainous regions as well as an enticing coastline peppered with golden sand, palm-lined beaches.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s electrifying southern metropolis formerly known as Saigon, brims with a restless energy that’s impossible to resist. The city is a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and flavours: the chaotic charm of Ben Thanh Market, where vendors peddle everything from exotic spices and street snacks to tailor-made suits; the leafy oasis of Nha Hang Ngon, serving traditional Vietnamese cuisine in a garden setting; and the lively cafes, rooftop bars, and art galleries that pulse through the districts, offering endless opportunities to soak in the city’s contemporary vibe. History and culture are never far away—admire the neo-Romanesque Notre-Dame Basilica, explore the carved statues at the Jade Emperor Pagoda, reflect at the War Remnants Museum, or visit the rare Taoist sanctuary of Khanh Van Nam Vien Pagoda. From bustling streets and hidden alleys to stylish nightlife and live music, Ho Chi Minh City is a constantly evolving urban playground where every corner offers a new adventure.
Hanoi, Vietnam’s captivating capital, is a city of contrasts where centuries-old traditions coexist with vibrant urban energy. Its wide boulevards, tree-lined lakes, and ancient pagodas are infused with the elegant legacy of French colonial architecture, creating a uniquely atmospheric backdrop. Visitors can witness synchronized t’ai chi at the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, meander through the bustling Old Quarter with its maze of narrow streets, lively traders, and weaving scooters, or enjoy the whimsical art of water puppetry at the Thang Long Puppet Theatre. Highlights also include the UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, the tranquil Perfume Pagoda temple complex, and the stately Hanoi Opera House in the French Quarter. Beyond its historic sites, Hanoi pulses with cafés, markets, and street-side eateries, offering an authentic taste of Vietnam’s culture, cuisine, and daily life—making it a city that charms at every turn.
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