Verdant patchworks of rice paddies, pointed lampshade-style hats, a country ravaged by war, and economic repression - these are the international images of Vietnam, seen on worldwide television and read about in the newspapers. But there are other scenes to be found, ones of natural beauty, ethnic culture, and imperial history, of timeless traditional villages, idyllic sea resorts and dynamic cities. Ancient temples and colorful pagodas are scattered throughout the urban centers, while among them stand hotels of modern luxury, and the development of tourism infrastructure is a booming business. Vietnam is a perfect balance between ancient times and the here and now, a country that reveres its past heroes, a nation that has collectively put the woes of war behind it, and people who welcome visitors to their country with open arms and friendly smiles.
Highlights:
This Along the Coast of Vietnam itinerary combines the country's natural heritage sites and the entire famous beach destination in Vietnam. Wander wide-eyed through the lively streets of old Hanoi and stay overnight on a traditional Vietnamese junk in bewitching Halong Bay. Fly to fascinating Hoi An, with its French background lingering in the streets. Indulge your self in some of the pristine beaches in Hoian, Nhatrang & Muine along the coast of Vietnam.
Highlights:
Once a collection of small fishing villages, Nha Trang Bay is now a bustling tourist destination, famous for its 7km stretch of coastline, coral reefs and warm, turquoise water. The sun shines all year round here, and temperatures never stray far from 26°C, thanks to its sheltered position beneath the mountains. It's this winning combination of favourable climate and rare natural beauty that make Nha Trang a jewel on the South China Sea.
Highlights:
The historic, merchant town of Hoi An had become one of the busiest international trading ports of southeast Asia by the 17th and 18th centuries, and it still retains its medieval charm today, with many of its old buildings superbly preserved.Today Hoi An is becoming a popular destination with local and foreign visitors for its historic Old Town, sandy beaches and excellent seafood. There are many markets in town which are an ideal place to pick up silk paintings and tailored silk clothing.
Highlights:
Phan Thiet is one of the closest beachside towns to Vietnam's metropolis, Ho Chi Minh City, but remains relatively untouched by developers and still retains the charm of a rural fishing community. Bordered by a series of undulating hills, lush green forests and red sand dunes, Phan Thiet's coastline and micro-climate make it the ideal Vietnamese destination for holidaymakers in search of tropical seclusion. Nestled on the country's southeast coast, Phan Thiet was the site of a US military base during the Vietnam War, known as Landing Zone Betty. Today peace has been restored and the South China Sea bumps gently against the white sands of Phan Thiet, at their most impressive on nearby Mui Ne Beach.
Highlights:
This largely untamed island in the Gulf of Thailand has a spirit of fun and adventure that you'll find infectious. There are plans to turn Phu Quoc into another generic tourist destination so plan your visit soon and stay as long as you can to soak up the laid-back atmosphere of Vietnam's teardrop island with its year-round agreeable climate. 45km west of the Vietnamese mainland and a short flight from Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc is a densely forested island, ringed with unspoilt beaches. In the 17th Century Vietnamese and Chinese immigrants earned their living here from a bounty of Sea Cucumbers, but these days the main trade is in pepper and fish sauce.