Southern Vietnam is so unique in every possible sense. Here are the best places to visit and admire its diversity.
Southern Vietnam is so unique in every possible sense. Here are the best places to visit and admire its diversity.
Pham Ngu Lao aka Backpacker's District is the place to shop cheap, from clothing and DVDs to travel tickets and accommodation. Pham Ngu Lao is where locals hang out and tourists explore so it is always happening, always noisy and always fun! Beware of skims but don't miss out on the fun. Just hang out at the street bars, cafes and restaurants, shop and enjoy!
This is the place which all visitors to Ho Chi Minh City have to see! Time-stamped by the historic events of 1975 when the Communist North Vietnam took over South Vietnam ending the Vietnam War. The dramatic events of that day were wildly publicized around the world but the most impactful image was from the Reunification Palace: A tank getting through the front gates of the palace and a soldier putting the South Vietnam flag on the balcony. This same tank is still on display at the front lawn. Today, the palace maintains the look it had in 1975 and is still in use for official functions.
Located in the Gulf of Thailand and off the coast of Cambodia, this Vietnamese island is a paradise on earth! White sands, crystal clear waters, jungles and mountains fascinate all visitors. Relax at the tranquil beaches or motorbike in the mountain jungles, whatever you do, you'll create memories for a lifetime.
An intriguing following, Cao Dai teaches that each religion has the same reason. True to this belief, Cao Dai incorporates elements of all major religions into its rituals. Even the temples, the largest of which is less than 100km from Ho Chi Minh, are built as Christian cathedrals with Oriental elements and Asian influence. Behind the altar are images of the founders of each of the major world religions - Buddha, Confucius, Laotse, Jesus and Mohammed, while under the central dome is the Cao Dai eye. Experience the spirituality and traditions of this religion by exploring the beautiful temple and staying for the ceremonies.
The gruesome reality of the American - Vietnamese War which lasted for 30 years is displayed at the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh. War equipment, weapons, machinery, tanks and bombs are shown but the most disturbing pieces are the "tiger cages" used for political prisoners and the French guillotine among other torture tools. Looking at the pictures of "Agent Orange" victims, adults and children sprayed by chemical weapons or born with birth defects from the aftermath, gives one a live image of the cruel war.
Da Lat, the city of eternal spring, where weather is mild and refreshing year-round, making it the perfect escape from the hot Vietnamese summer. The French colonists had discovered this heavenly place and made it to their liking long ago... To this day, Da Lat features the typical French colonial architecture and you can even spot some berets being flashed around. The wonderful classic atmosphere of the town, surrounded by exquisite nature of lakes, waterfalls, gardens and forests, have established Da Lat as the top wedding venue and honeymoon destination of Vietnam.
The honeycombed underground of Cu Chi is legendary for its role in the American - Vietnamese War. This maze of tunnels spreads all over the area from Ho Chi Minh to the Cambodian border and comprises of astonishing 250km of passages, adapted for life and fight underground. Numerous living areas, command centers, weapons storage, even a factory helped the Vietnamese combat their enemies using the element of surprise and quick unseen movement. Nowadays, the Cu Chi Tunnels are a major historic site, visited by thousands each year.
The irresistible beaches of Nha Trang are the jewel of Southern Vietnam. White sand, emerald waters and luxury accommodations along the shoreline attract visitors from all parts of the world. Scuba diving of the coast of Nha Trang and around the offshore islands is a true treat for all dive-enthusiasts while the entertainment, bars and restaurants along the beach line promenade offer a great way spend some time gazing at the mesmerizing scenery.
Widely known as "Vietnam's Rice Bowl", Mekong Delta feeds over one third of the country through its mighty water ripped landscape of rice paddies, sugar cane groves, fruit orchards and more. A trip to this area is unforgettable! Try the local delicacies from the floating markets and visit the floating villages along the maze of Mekong canals. This agricultural Venice of Vietnam hides many ancient treasures as well, from Khmer temples to sacred grounds.
Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam's most exciting and happening place where old and new blend into an exhilarating mix. Previously known as Saigon, the city has passed through turmoil and success but emerged as the jewel it is today. Centuries old spiritual temples stand by ultra-modern skyscrapers, backpackers' hostels by luxury hotels, cheap knock-offs stands are counterbalanced by designer malls and traditional delicacy food stalls compete with the fancy restaurants. A city of contrasts, Ho Chi Minh is unforgettable.
Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam's most exciting and happening place where old and new blend into an exhilarating mix. Previously known as Saigon, the city has passed through turmoil and success but emerged as the jewel it is today. Centuries old spiritual temples stand by ultra-modern skyscrapers, backpackers' hostels by luxury hotels, cheap knock-offs stands are counterbalanced by designer malls and traditional delicacy food stalls compete with the fancy restaurants. A city of contrasts, Ho Chi Minh is unforgettable.
Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam's most exciting and happening place where old and new blend into an exhilarating mix. Previously known as Saigon, the city has passed through turmoil and success but emerged as the jewel it is today. Centuries old spiritual temples stand by ultra-modern skyscrapers, backpackers' hostels by luxury hotels, cheap knock-offs stands are counterbalanced by designer malls and traditional delicacy food stalls compete with the fancy restaurants. A city of contrasts, Ho Chi Minh is unforgettable.
Asia is such an incredible destination with countless treasures to discover. Here are some of the best places to visit where natural beauty, cultural diversity and outstanding architecture will make the experience absolutely unforgettable.
Asia is such an incredible destination with countless treasures to discover. Here are some of the best places to visit where natural beauty, cultural diversity and outstanding architecture will make the experience absolutely unforgettable.
Known for being one of the most beautiful countries in Southeast Asia, Vietnam is surprisingly lesser known for its beaches... That means, now is the time to visit them! Enjoy the sand dunes, blue warm waters, palm trees and spectacular vistas before they become overcrowded. Here are the absolute best beaches to escape, relax and forget about everything else!
Known for being one of the most beautiful countries in Southeast Asia, Vietnam is surprisingly lesser known for its beaches... That means, now is the time to visit them! Enjoy the sand dunes, blue warm waters, palm trees and spectacular vistas before they become overcrowded. Here are the absolute best beaches to escape, relax and forget about everything else!
The authenticity of Vietnam is so charming that you have no other choice but to fall in love! The entire country is a photographers' dream - ancient cities, vast rice fields, fisherman villages, foggy mountains and sunny beaches... The idilic picture becomes even more complete the minute you experience the communal spirit and warmth of the local people.
The authenticity of Vietnam is so charming that you have no other choice but to fall in love! The entire country is a photographers' dream - ancient cities, vast rice fields, fisherman villages, foggy mountains and sunny beaches... The idilic picture becomes even more complete the minute you experience the communal spirit and warmth of the local people.
The beautiful city of Hanoi has many faces, all of which need to be explored to gain a perspective on Vietnam and its people. Beautiful French colonial buildings remind of the colonization period while centuries old palaces and temples in classic Vietnamese architecture stand as witnesses of a glorious past. Spiritual, vintage and modern collide in a wonderful mix of people, places and unique experiences.
The beautiful city of Hanoi has many faces, all of which need to be explored to gain a perspective on Vietnam and its people. Beautiful French colonial buildings remind of the colonization period while centuries old palaces and temples in classic Vietnamese architecture stand as witnesses of a glorious past. Spiritual, vintage and modern collide in a wonderful mix of people, places and unique experiences.
What an incredibly picturesque area is the central part of Vietnam! Beautiful, unexploited beaches, ancient imperial cities and gorgeous surroundings... The photo ops are everywhere!
What an incredibly picturesque area is the central part of Vietnam! Beautiful, unexploited beaches, ancient imperial cities and gorgeous surroundings... The photo ops are everywhere!