Visit Vietnam: Best Places to Visit, Must-Try Activities, and Essential Travel Tips
Vietnam is a very special travel destination for me. It was my first time in Asia, my first time backpacking, and the first country on my five-month solo journey back in 2017. On the way, I met incredible people who are still part of my life. That sums up my love for Vietnam. 😀 Aside from that, it's simply a stunning destination that offers something for every traveller.
Top Sights and Must-See Highlights in Vietnam
Northern Vietnam: Rice Terraces, Hill Tribes, and National Parks
In the mountains of the north, you'll find breathtaking rice terraces in Sa Pa and can immerse yourself in the lives of the hill tribes. You can board a boat and drift through the mystical rocky landscapes in various bays, like the famous Halong Bay. You'll discover numerous national parks throughout the country, teeming with tropical wildlife, plants, caves, and stunning scenery.
Southern Vietnam: Culture, Climate
In southern Vietnam, you'll encounter a completely different climate, lifestyle, and vegetation. I will add more details and information to this article on an ongoing basis as I share my perspective from 2024/25 with you, and I'm not there yet.
Find everything you need to plan your Vietnam trip, including must-see destinations, insider tips, and travel hacks for an unforgettable adventure.
Essential Vietnam Travel Tips: What You Need to Know Before You Go
Overview
✈️ Flight: Skyscanner (search) & Google Flights (private navigation & VPN), Trip.com
🏡 Hotel/Hostel/Homestay: Mostly Booking (pay cash) or Airbnb
🛂 Visa: Swiss citizens must apply for a tourist visa (e-visa) in advance, selecting single or multiple entry, valid for a maximum of 90 days. Important: An e-visa cannot be extended locally, and you will need to leave the country to apply for a new one.
🎟️ Onward Ticket: Officially required. We always use Bestonward to book onward flights.
📌 Capital: Hanoi
💬 Language: Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt), with over 110 recognised dialects and languages.
⛪️ Religion: The majority practice is folk religion, followed by Buddhism.
Interesting Fact: Vietnam is on the US watchlist due to the Vietnamese government's monitoring, harassment, and suppression of independent religious groups.
🏛️ Politics: Socialist Republic with a one-party system under the leadership of the Communist Party (follows Marxism-Leninism and the ideologies of Hồ Chí Minh).
💰 Currency: Vietnamese Dong | 1 CHF ≈ 28,000 Dong | 1 USD = ≈ 25,000 Dong
🍲 Food: Vietnam’s cuisine offers an incredible variety of dishes, with options for both meat lovers and vegetarians, from sweet to spicy, from fancy cafés to street food.
🛡️ Safety: A safe travel destination where we've always felt safe and comfortable.
☀️ Best Time to Travel: November to April.
Note: December in the north (including Hanoi) can bring autumn/winter temperatures.
🚘 Getting Around: Bus, train, motorbike, taxi
🔌 Adapter: Sometimes yes, sometimes no. We use these two: SKROSS Reiseadapter PRO 7A, SKROSS Ladegerät World USB (2 USB) .
📱 SIM Card: Viettel offers the best coverage. Other providers include Vinaphone and Mobiphone. All offer physical SIM cards or eSIMs at the airport. There’s also Holafly, Airolo, and Saily, but I find them too expensive.
🏧 Cash: Cash is commonly used, though cards are becoming more accepted. With Neon (Code 7401R1), you can pay cashless and withdraw money without significant additional fees.
🚑 Travel Insurance: Make sure to arrange it before your trip. We use TCS ETI Schutzbrief Plus, which offers good coverage and many benefits (f.ex. free credit card), discounts (parking, car rental, etc.) and much more. Text me for referral (50% off your first year).
🎒 Packing List: Here's our packing list for Vietnam! (Will be added soon)
🛂 Essential Tips for Your Vietnam Visa Application
When applying for a Vietnam eVisa, only fill out the required fields. Trust me, adding unnecessary details can cause more harm than good. My godmother's experience is a perfect example: She completed all the optional fields, and her visa was repeatedly "refused" due to so-called missing information. Despite reviewing everything and making adjustments, it didn’t work. She ended up having to go through the embassy, paying a new eVisa and extra fees on top of her initial application costs.
Key Points to Keep in Mind:
Payment Issues: Ensure your payment method works properly before you begin. If it fails, you’ll need to restart the application from scratch.
Triple-Check Your Dates:
If you're staying less than three months, consider adding a few extra days to your requested dates for flexibility.
Note that they approve the exact dates you request—not a standard 30 or 60 days.
Single vs. Multiple Entry:
A single-entry visa costs 620k VND (22,80.- CHF/ $24,75) but only allows one entry. If you plan to leave and re-enter Vietnam, you’ll need to apply for a new visa each time.
A multiple-entry visa costs around $50 (45,60.- CHF) and is worth considering if your travel plans include exiting and returning to the country.
By following these tips, you can save time, money, and unnecessary frustration. A little preparation goes a long way when navigating Vietnam's visa process!
📱Tips for Buying a SIM Card or eSIM in Vietnam
When purchasing a SIM card or eSIM in Vietnam, here’s what to keep in mind to ensure you get the best deal and functionality:
Check Your Phone’s Compatibility:
If you’re buying a physical SIM card, ensure your phone has a second card slot.
For an eSIM, double-check that your phone supports eSIM functionality before purchasing.
Assess Your Needs:
Do you need to enable a hotspot to share internet with other devices?
Is internet access only sufficient, or do you need to make local calls?
How much data do you require? Consider whether you need high data limits or just basic internet for browsing.
How many days will you be staying? Choose a plan that covers your full trip duration.
Compare Your Options:
At the Noi Bai Airport (HAN) airport, I purchased a Viettel eSIM with 30 days of unlimited internet, featuring a daily 5GB high-speed limit, for 350,000 VND (approximately 12.47 CHF/ $13,96).
My second eSIM, bought on Klook, also offered 30 days of unlimited internet, costing 13.25 CHF ($13,68).
Update Jan. 2025: This eSIM has limited speed, and the 4G connection can be unreliable at times. The coverage doesn’t seem as extensive, and the signal isn’t as strong as with the Viettel eSIM.
Look for Promotion Codes:
Before purchasing from popular platforms like Klook, Saily or other sites, check Instagram for promotion codes from influencers. A quick search could save you some money!
Usually, buying a local SIM card is the cheapest option, followed closely by local eSIMs. For more in-depth information, check out this page.
🚘 How to Get Around Vietnam: Transportation Tips for Backpackers
Train and Bus Tickets
Vexere: Offers the cheapest tickets, but the options are limited.
Bookaway: Provides a variety of choices at affordable prices.
12GoAsia: A comprehensive platform listing trains, buses, taxis, and more, but it's sometimes more expensive than the others.
If you're the spontaneous type, you can book tickets on-site while traveling. However, this may lead to limited availability, requiring you to wait for the next day or settle for less convenient schedules. Plan ahead to avoid potential delays.
Taxis and Scooter-Taxis
For rides within cities, use Grab or be (Code: W9YSY4).
You can choose between 4-seaters, 7-seaters, and different price classes.
Cheaper options may require longer waiting times or may not be available, especially in the evening.
From evening to late night, prices can double.
Tours and Activities
For hassle-free planning, book tours, adventures, and sightseeing trips via:
These platforms let you read reviews, compare prices, and secure deals, often making them more affordable than arranging every detail yourself. For unique experiences like an overnight homestay with locals in Sa Pa, avoid pre-organised tours. Large group tours might lack the authenticity or personal touch you'd find by planning independently.
You'll find more about this in my next blog post, coming in April 2025.
Travelling During National Holidays and Festivals
Be especially cautious when travelling during national holidays or festivals, such as Tết (Vietnamese New Year). Tickets sell out quickly, so it’s essential to book in advance to secure your plans and avoid disruptions.
💬 The Vietnamese Language and Useful Phrases for Travelers
At first glance, the answer may seem obvious: Vietnamese. However, considering Vietnam’s long history, including over a thousand years under Chinese rule and nearly a century of French colonisation, it's interesting to explore how these influences have shaped the language. Vietnam is one of the few countries in Southeast Asia where the national language is written using the Latin alphabet.
The Vietnamese language, which belongs to the Austro-Asiatic language family (like Khmer), originally lacked tonal elements. It was through interactions with the Chinese language and particularly the Tai-Kadai language with its complex tonal system that Vietnamese developed its own tonal characteristics. This is why Vietnamese is considered a tonal language.
You’ll also find French influences in the Vietnamese language. For example, "Chocolat" became "Sô-cô-la," and "Café" turned into "Cà phê."
Basic Vietnamese Phrases for Travelers
Knowing a few simple Vietnamese phrases can greatly enhance your travel experience, help you connect with locals, and show respect for their culture. Learning words directly from the locals can also create a fun exchange, where you can teach them English or words from your own language.
In addition, understanding key phrases can be especially helpful during negotiations. To make shopping or bargaining easier, it's a good idea to learn how to say numbers, ask for prices, and express "It's too expensive!". These basic Vietnamese phrases will help you navigate your travels and secure better deals with ease.
Hello: Xin chào! (sin tschäu)
Goodbye: Tạm biệt (tam bieet)
Thank you: Cảm ơn (gahm öhn)
You’re welcome: Không có gì (choum coh si)
I’m sorry, Excuse me: Xin lỗi (Sin loi)
No problem: Kong saô (choum säu)
Yes: Vâng (vung)
No: Không (khome)
I want to pay: Tính tiền (ting tien)
How much is it?: Bao nhiêu tiền? (bäu niü tien)
Too expensive: Mắc quá (mac uah)
I want discount: Giảm giá (sam säh)
💰 Cost of Living in Vietnam: An Overview
Vietnam is one of the most affordable countries for travellers and expats, offering a low cost of living, budget-friendly food, and cheap rent. While Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are more expensive, smaller cities and rural areas provide even lower prices, making Vietnam a top destination for digital nomads and retirees.
🍜 Street food: 1–4.- CHF ($1-$5,50) per meal (cheap and delicious local specialities)
🍜 Restaurant: 3,50–10.- CHF ($3,80-$11) per meal (higher prices for international and upscale dining)
🛏️ Accommodation: (Prices vary widely depending on location and amenities, with discounts for long-term stays!)
Budget: 5,50-20.- CHF ($6-$22) (hostels, guesthouses)
Mid-range: 20-40.- CHF ($22-$44) (hotels, private rooms, boutique stays)
Comfort & luxury on a budget: 30-60.- CHF ($33-$65) (high-end apartments, pools, beachfront stays)
Luxury hotels & resorts: 70.- + CHF ($76+) (international chains, premium services)
🏷️ Long-term stays often come with discounts—great for digital nomads & slow travellers!
🚌 Bus: 9,50-20.- CHF ($10-$22) for long-distance travel (cheap and popular option)
🚂 Train: 15–30.- CHF ($16,50-$33) for long-distance routes (comfortable & scenic)
🛵 Motorbike rental: 5,50-7,20.- CHF ($6-$8) per day (popular for independent travellers)
➡️ For more details on the prices of organised tours, homestays, and more, check out my upcoming blog posts!
💰 Vietnam Travel Tips: Payments, Tipping, and Bargaining Explained
Cash or Card? A Guide to Payments in Vietnam
In Vietnam, cash is the most common form of payment. While card payments are available in many places, especially in cities like Hanoi, they often come with a 3% transaction fee. However, larger supermarkets, chain stores, modern cafés, and restaurants typically accept cards without issues. Most hotels and hostels also allow card payments, but you’ll likely encounter the same 3% surcharge.
When withdrawing cash from ATMs in Vietnam, expect a typical fee of around 2% per transaction, though it may fluctuate or be a fixed amount, like 50k VND per withdrawal. No ATM seems to offer fee-free withdrawals. To reduce extra costs, bring a travel credit/debit card with no foreign transaction fees and a reasonable exchange rate. This will help you withdraw cash affordably and make payments without extra charges, ensuring a smoother travel experience throughout Vietnam.
Tipping in Vietnam: A Quick Guide
In Vietnam, tipping is not common, and it’s not expected in most situations. Service charges and VAT are included in most modern café, restaurant and bar bills, so there’s no need to tip in fast-food or mid-range eateries. Street vendors don’t include VAT, but tipping isn’t required.
For Grab rides (cars and motorbikes), it’s not necessary to tip, but rounding up the fare is appreciated. Grab food delivery also doesn’t require a tip, though rounding up or tipping between 5-20k VND (0,20 - 0,70.- CHF) for larger orders is a kind gesture.
Massages and spa treatments are exceptions, where a tip of 10-20% is common, especially for exceptional service. Tipping for barbers and hairdressers is also appreciated.
Lastly, it’s a good idea to tip tour guides and personal drivers, as their service can significantly enhance your experience.
Overall, tipping is not mandatory in Vietnam, but it’s always appreciated for personalised services.
Bargaining in Vietnam: A Cultural Norm
Bargaining is integral to Vietnamese culture, especially in markets, street stalls, and many shops. While prices are fixed in supermarkets, restaurants, and some stores, negotiation is expected in most places.
At first, bargaining may feel overwhelming, unfair, and tedious. Once you're used to it, it can become an entertaining and engaging part of the experience. It's important to understand that prices are often inflated, and negotiating isn't offensive—it's just part of daily life in Vietnam.
Before complaining about prices, try converting the cost into your home currency. You'll likely find the difference negligible and worth the experience. Remember, paying inflated prices doesn't necessarily support the local economy; it can encourage dishonest practices. On the other hand, negotiating is seen as a sign of respect for the local culture.
Tips for Bargaining:
Start Low: Offer around half the asking price as a starting point. Gradually increase your offer until you're satisfied. If there’s no agreement, pretend to walk away. However, if it's something you really want, think twice before walking away—some vendors are firm and won’t chase after you.
Don’t Flash Your Money: Showing large amounts of cash may prompt sellers to inflate prices. Keep your money hidden until the end of the deal.
Negotiate in Vietnamese Dong: Always use the local currency to avoid unfavorable conversions, especially if you’re paying in dollars.
Be Respectful: Negotiation is about finding a fair price, not winning a battle. Always remain polite and friendly during the process.
In Vietnam, bargaining is not just about getting the best deal; it’s a way to connect with the local culture. Embrace the process with respect and enjoy the experience!
For further reading about prices and planning your travel budget, check out my other blog entry.
☀️ Best Time to Visit Vietnam: Weather, Seasons, and Travel Tips
Vietnam offers a diverse climate due to its long geography, ranging from chilly winters in the north to tropical heat in the south. When planning your trip, the best time to visit depends on your interests and activities. Here's a breakdown of Vietnam’s climate and the best travel times:
General Climate Overview
North Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Halong Bay): Winters (December to February) can be chilly, with occasional snowfall in the highlands. Summers (May to August) are hot and humid with heavy rainfall.
Central Vietnam (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An): Warm year-round with a more distinct dry season from February to June.
South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc): Tropical weather all year, with a rainy season from May to October. The dry season (November to April) is ideal for exploring.
Best Time for Specific Activities
Beach Holidays: The best time for the central coast (Da Nang, Hoi An) is from February to June, with pleasant temperatures and less rain.
Trekking in the Highlands (Sa Pa, Ha Giang): From October to March, the weather is ideal for trekking, with cooler temperatures. However, January tends to be cloudy, foggy, and cold. The Golden Season in Sa Pa is in late August and September, when the rice is ripe for harvest. Locals recommend visiting in June and July, as the skies are often clear, and the rice terraces are lush and vibrant green. Although it's the rainy season, the occasional showers enhance the region's natural beauty.
Visiting Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City: December to March is the best time to explore these cities, with cooler and drier weather.
Peak Tourist Seasons
Summer (July and August): Despite the rainy season, this period sees high tourist activity due to school holidays. Central Vietnam’s weather is perfect for beachgoers.
Tết 節 Festival (Late January to early February): The Vietnamese Lunar New Year can impact travel plans due to high prices and widespread movement across the country. While there are festivities, most people celebrate with family, friends, and neighbours. The pre-Tết season is beautiful, with red decorations and flowers, but during Tết itself, many businesses may be closed or operate with limited hours. For example, eVisa applications are closed from January 28th to February 2nd this year (2025).
Low Season
April to June & September to November: These months offer more settled weather, but expect occasional rain. They are ideal for avoiding the summer crowds and high season prices, though typhoons might disrupt travel from August to September.
Typhoon Season (August to September)
Typhoon season impacts both the northern and southern coasts of Vietnam, with Halong Bay and central Vietnam being especially vulnerable. Prolonged rainfall from typhoons can lead to severe flooding, landslides, and damage from strong winds. In northern areas like Sa Pa, heavy rain can trigger significant landslides, which have caused fatalities in the past and can block roads for extended periods due to the region’s rural setting and limited infrastructure. All of this can obviously lead to transport disruptions, power outages, and other challenges that can make travel more complex and less predictable. Therefore, it's advisable to closely monitor weather forecasts and focus on low-risk activities and locations during this time.
Festivals, Events and Celebrations
Tết, Lunar New Year (29th January, 2025)
Vietnam’s most significant celebration, marking the lunar new year. It typically falls in late January or early February. Families reunite, homes are decorated, and offerings are made to ancestors. Note: The Lunar New Year holiday in 2025 will span nine consecutive days, from January 25 to February 2, with the first day of the Lunar New Year falling on January 29.
Huế Festival and Huế Craft Village Festival (1st week of April, 2025)
A vibrant celebration of arts, culture, and heritage held in the historic city of Huế. Enjoy traditional crafts, music, and dance performances.
Hùng Kings Temple Festival (April 7th, 2025)
Celebrated from the 8th to the 11th day of the third lunar month, this festival honours the legendary Hùng Kings, the founders of Vietnam. The main event takes place in Phú Thọ Province. Note: The first day is a public holiday.
Vu Lan, Ghost Festival (18 August, 2025)
Held on the 15th day of the 7th lunar month, this is a day to honour wandering spirits with offerings and prayers.
Independence Day (September 2nd, 2025)
Commemorating Vietnam's declaration of independence in 1945, this is a day of national pride, marked by parades and celebrations.
Mid-Autumn Festival (17 September, 2025)
Celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, this festival honours the harvest moon. Tip: Hoi An’s Ancient Town becomes a magical scene with lanterns and floating boats on the Thu Bon River.
New Year’s Eve (December 31st)
Festivities include fireworks, parties, and gatherings to welcome the Gregorian New Year.
Hoi An Lantern Festival
Held monthly on the full moon, Hoi An Lantern Festival transforms the Ancient Town into a glowing wonderland. Streets and shops turn off electric lights, illuminating the area with vibrant lanterns and candles. Visitors can release lanterns onto the Thu Bon River, experiencing a serene celebration of Vietnamese tradition and beauty.
By understanding Vietnam’s seasonal weather patterns, you can choose the best time to visit based on your interests and enjoy a more comfortable and memorable experience.
🍲 Traditional Vietnamese Cuisine
Vegetarian Dishes 🌱
Goi Cuon – Summer Rolls
Fresh, non-fried spring rolls with vegetables, Thai basil, Chinese chives, rice noodles, peanuts, and lettuce. Can be made with tofu instead of meat, served with soy, peanut, or fish sauce.Banh Mi – Vietnamese Baguette
A sandwich filled with tofu, pickled vegetables, herbs, and sauces. Available at street vendors with various fillings.Banh Xeo – Vietnamese Pancakes
Savory pancakes filled with vegetables, bean sprouts, and herbs. Vegetarian versions are made with tofu and vegetables.
Meat Dishes 🍖
Phở – Noodle Soup (National Dish)
A traditional Vietnamese soup enjoyed all day, typically made with beef (Phở Bò) or chicken (Phở Gà). The Northern version is lighter, while the Southern version is richer and bolder.Banh Mi – Vietnamese Baguette (with Meat)
A popular sandwich filled with grilled pork, chicken, beef, or pâté, alongside fresh vegetables and sauces. A quick and satisfying meal.Bánh Cuốn – Steamed Rice Rolls
Delicate rice rolls filled with minced pork, mushrooms, and sometimes Vietnamese sausage, served with crispy shallots, herbs, and fish sauce.Goi Cuon – Summer Rolls (with Meat)
Fresh rolls wrapped in rice paper with shrimp, grilled pork, or beef, paired with herbs, noodles, and vegetables. Served with dipping sauces.Bún Chả – Grilled Pork with Noodles
A Hanoi specialty featuring grilled pork (pork belly or meatballs) served with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a tangy dipping sauce.Bánh Hỏi – Vermicelli with Grilled Pork
Delicate vermicelli noodles topped with grilled pork (often skewers), fresh herbs, fried shallots, and peanuts, served with a fish sauce-based dip.
Other Traditional Dishes 🍜
Cha Gio – Vietnamese Spring Rolls
Crispy fried rolls stuffed with pork, shrimp, or vegetables are typically served as appetisers with a tangy dipping sauce.Canh Chua – Sour Soup
A Southern Vietnamese favourite, this sour soup is made with fish or shrimp and tamarind, balanced by vegetables, herbs, and a hint of spice.Sweet Brown Rice
A traditional dessert, often served warm, made with brown rice, sugar, and coconut milk for a rich, sweet treat.Vietnamese Coffee Varieties
Salt Coffee: A unique brew with a salty layer on top, creating a balance of savoury and sweet flavours.
Egg Coffee: A creamy, rich coffee topped with whipped egg yolk and sweetened condensed milk.
Coconut Coffee: A sweet blend of coffee and coconut cream, often served iced for a refreshing treat.
Drip Coffee with Condensed Milk: A popular Vietnamese way to brew coffee, often served as “cà phê sữa đá” (iced coffee with sweetened condensed milk) for a strong, sweet flavour.
Vietnam’s cuisine caters to both vegetarians and meat lovers, with dishes ranging from fresh summer rolls to flavorful noodle soups. Meat options include duck, pork, beef, and more, offering something for every palate.
I'll provide more details about the prices in my upcoming blog post, which will be released in March 2025.
Top Sights and Must-See Attractions in Vietnam: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
Top Sights and Highlights in Northern Vietnam
🌇 Hanoi
Hanoi is Vietnam’s historical capital, blending ancient landmarks with a modern vibe. For culture, history, and food lovers, this city is a perfect mix. Famous for Hoan Kiem Lake, the Temple of Literature, the Old Quarter, and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hanoi offers unique street food and a lively coffee culture. Hanoi boasts countless trendy cafes, rooftop bars, and restaurants to suit every budget. It also serves as a perfect base for day trips and weekend getaways. Although busy, it’s less crowded than Ho Chi Minh City, making it ideal for sightseeing.
⛵️ Halong Bay
A UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its towering limestone islands. A must-see, as most people would say. It's perfect for activities like boat tours and kayaking. Popular attractions include Ti Top Island, Sung Sot Cave, and Cat Ba Island. To escape the crowds and enjoy a more authentic experience, consider an overnight boat cruise or explore quieter, less-visited areas such as Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay. These locations offer stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.
🏞️ Ninh Binh
Often referred to as the “Dry Halong Bay,” Ninh Binh boasts stunning limestone karsts, lush landscapes, and tranquil rivers, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat away from the crowds of popular spots like Halong Bay. While it has gained popularity in recent years and can become crowded, it still offers plenty of opportunities to escape the hustle and bustle. Must-visit attractions include Trang An, Tam Coc, and the Bich Dong Pagoda. Ninh Binh is perfect for photography, hiking, and exploring hidden caves.
⛰️ Sa Pa
Sa Pa, located in northern Vietnam, is renowned for its stunning rice terraces, vibrant local culture, and treks through villages of the Hmong, Dzao, and other ethnic groups. It's a fantastic destination for trekkers and nature lovers, offering beautiful landscapes and a chance to connect with local traditions. While Sa Pa has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many new hotels and guesthouses being built, it still maintains an authentic vibe. You can experience this through homestays nestled in the valleys and hillsides, providing a unique cultural immersion. Popular spots include Cat Cat Village, the Silver Waterfall, and the trek up Fansipan Mountain, which offers a breathtaking view.
⛰️ Ha Giang
For thrill-seekers, adventurers, and nature lovers, the Ha Giang Loop is one of Vietnam's most scenic motorbike routes. Offering stunning landscapes, remote ethnic villages, and challenging terrain, it’s perfect for those seeking to explore the “untouched” beauty of northern Vietnam. However, it has gained immense popularity in recent years, attracting more tourists than before. Despite this, it still provides a sense of adventure with spots like the Dong Van Karst Plateau, Ma Pi Leng Pass, and the Lung Cu Flag Tower.
⛰️ Cao Bang Province
Cao Bang Province is a hidden gem in northern Vietnam, offering beautiful mountains, deep valleys, and magnificent waterfalls. Perfect for nature lovers and cultural explorers, it’s an off-the-beaten-path destination for those looking to avoid crowds. Key highlights include the Ban Gioc Waterfall, Pac Bo Cave, Nui Mat Than and Thang Hen Lake. Cao Bang is home to several ethnic groups like the H'mong, making it a unique place to explore both nature and culture.
Top Activities in Vietnam
A Blend of Adventure, Culture, and History
Cooking Classes: Immerse yourself in Vietnam’s rich culinary culture by learning to make iconic dishes like pho and fresh spring rolls in Hanoi or Hoi An.
Pottery Classes: Visit traditional villages like Bat Trang and try your hand at crafting authentic Vietnamese ceramics.
Canyoning Adventures: For thrill-seekers, Dalat is the perfect spot to rappel down waterfalls amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Kayaking in Halong Bay: Paddle through emerald waters and discover hidden caves in one of the world’s most stunning UNESCO Heritage Sites.
Trekking and Homestay in Sapa: Explore the terraced rice fields, trek through breathtaking mountain trails, and enjoy an authentic cultural experience by staying with a local hill tribe family. A homestay in Sapa offers a unique opportunity to connect with the warm hospitality of ethnic minorities like the Hmong or Dao.
Mud Bathing in Caves: Relax and rejuvenate in the therapeutic mud baths of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.
Exploring War Tunnels: Step into history at the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City, a sobering yet fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s past.
—> Stay tuned for detailed posts with more insights and links to enhance your Vietnam adventure! One post coming in April 2025.
Why Vietnam Should Be on Your Bucket List
Vietnam is a budget-friendly destination with excellent travel infrastructure and easy accessibility! Enjoy adventure activities like canyoning and kayaking, or immerse yourself in cultural experiences such as homestays, pottery, and cooking classes. Vietnam's stunning landscapes range from majestic mountains and beautiful beaches to lush rice terraces and dense jungles. With reliable buses and trains, travelling around the country is simple and convenient. Plan your trip to Vietnam today for an affordable and unforgettable adventure filled with culture, nature, and excitement!