Indian newspaper shares Vietnam travel guide.

According to the General Statistics Office of Vietnam, Vietnam has recently recorded a 25% increase in international visitors. While most tourists flock to popular destinations like Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, the highlands, rivers, terraced rice paddies, and rice fields offer unforgettable cultural experiences. Although Vietnam has many destinations, Luxebook focuses on showcasing some of the most important ones.

Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital city, is Vietnam's second-largest city. A city of immense historical significance, it boasts numerous culturally rich attractions such as the Old Quarter, St. Joseph's Cathedral, Bach Ma Temple, Dong Xuan Market, Long Bien Bridge, and Hoan Kiem Lake.

Hanoi also boasts a wide variety of delicious dishes, including bun cha (grilled pork with vermicelli), banh cuon (steamed rice rolls), and pho cuon (rolled pho). Coffee is a particularly popular beverage, and visitors will find it hard to find the unique egg coffee anywhere else. And as the sun sets, visitors can enjoy draft beer and the lively atmosphere at the "beer intersection" of Ta Hien and Luong Ngoc Quyen streets.

Ho Chi Minh City

As Vietnam's largest city, Ho Chi Minh City clearly embodies two key values: a booming economic hub with numerous skyscrapers and a vibrant work environment; and a repository of rich historical values, featuring monuments and buildings influenced by French architecture.

Ho Chi Minh City is also renowned for its diverse culinary scene, ranging from street food carts to upscale restaurants. Bamboo Bar, Doozy, Kumquat Tree Speakeasy Bar, Nê Cocktail Bar, The Haflelton, and Tung Dining were included in the list of the world's 50 best restaurants in 2023.

Phu Quoc

For those seeking a perfect beach with swaying palm trees, a nearby pristine forest, and a few bars to enjoy cocktails while admiring the sea, Bai Sao Beach in Phu Quoc is a fantastic choice.

Bai Sao Beach is located about 28km from Duong Dong town and is considered the most famous beach in Phu Quoc. According to local guides, the best time to visit is from June to October, when Bai Sao Beach has more starfish than in other months.

Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is a famous destination with over 2,000 limestone islands featuring unique geological formations. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-see for those who enjoy crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand beaches.

Sa Pa

Located 320km north of Hanoi, Sa Pa attracts many tourists with its stunning terraced rice fields. Rice has been cultivated on terraces for centuries, and the pristine natural landscape is picturesque. The highest peak here is Fansipan – known as the "Roof of Indochina." It is also home to many ethnic minority groups with unique cultural values.

In terms of cuisine, the area boasts many traditional ethnic dishes made from various meats such as beef, pork, buffalo, and goat. Sa Pa is also famous for its salmon, known for its fresh and light flavor.

Hue

For those interested in Vietnamese history and passionate about Vietnamese cuisine, Hue is a must-visit destination. The best time to visit Hue is from February to April. Located about 130 km north of Hoi An, Hue is the former capital of Vietnam. It preserves many architectural works, temples, and tombs of the Nguyen dynasty.

In terms of cuisine, Hue offers an interesting blend of regional dishes such as clam rice, banh xeo (Vietnamese savory pancake), banh khoai (fried rice cake), nem lui (grilled pork skewers), banh ep (pressed rice cake), and bun bo (beef noodle soup). And if you want to do some shopping, Dong Ba Market has everything from everyday household items to goods and Hue specialties, such as dried lotus seeds, Phu Cam conical hats, and many other handicrafts.

Da Nang

This is Vietnam's third-largest city and also home to some of the country's most beautiful beaches. Water sports enthusiasts can visit My Khe Beach, while those who prefer privacy can explore the pristine Tien Sa Beach in the north of Son Tra Peninsula. The ideal time to visit Da Nang is from February to April.

In terms of cuisine, visitors can go to Han Market and discover a paradise of local food such as Quang noodles, banh xeo (Vietnamese savory pancake), grilled pork vermicelli, or spring rolls.

Phuong Thao is an editor at Travellive magazine. She is passionate about traveling and enjoys capturing moments with her camera in every place she visits. Travel, art, and lifestyle are Phuong Thao's favorite writing topics.

Phuong Thao