My desire to visit Vietnam was ignited the first time I glimpsed a photograph of Halong Bay. It countered the image of Vietnam I had conjured in my head; the one where chaotic streets are overcrowded with motorbikes and stifled with pollution.… Read the rest
Arriving in Hoi An, Vietnam was like taking a deep, calming breath. We came from the buzzing city of Hanoi – and the contrast was unmistakable. Hoi An sits on a lazy river full of bobbing fishing boats. The old town – a UNESCO World Heritage City – boasts picturesque streets lined with fading yellow houses.… Read the rest
When we decided to travel to Dalat, Vietnam as part of our journey through the country, we did it based on a single reason: the promise of cool, mountain weather. We didn’t care about the things to do in Dalat – not the city sights or Dalat waterfalls or tours or food – we just wanted to escape the heat.… Read the rest
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam is a vivacious city filled with a spirited culture, towering skyscrapers and the relentless sound of buzzing scooters. Marked by its tumultuous past, the city both embraces its history and looks toward a modern future. The result is an exotic blend of diversified architecture, unique local customs and engaging sights – which means there is a long list of things to do in Ho Chi Minh City.… Read the rest
The Vietnamese beer culture – long defined by cheap, light lagers – is finally evolving to include innovative and flavorful brews. The trend began with the introduction of locally produced craft beer in Ho Chi Minh City and the movement is taking the country by storm.… Read the rest
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam is a busy, sprawling city filled with honking scooters, pungent aromas and enthralling scenes. The staggering city – Vietnam’s largest with a population of 9 million people – is a mix of modern high-rises, classic architecture and historic enclaves.… Read the rest
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam is jam-packed with eateries dishing out the country’s delicious cuisine. From market halls to upscale establishments, there is no shortage of places to eat in HCMC. During our trip, we were determined to try the absolute best Saigon food – and with that in mind, we discovered top Ho Chi Minh restaurants.… Read the rest
When we decided to base ourselves in Da Nang, Vietnam for two weeks, we envisioned spending long, relaxing days at the beach, idling away our time by watching the local fisherman come and go in their basket boats. What we discovered, however, is that there are many incredible and fun things to do in Da Nang!… Read the rest
Da Nang is vastly different than most cities in Vietnam – and the most modern city on the Central Coast. The historic center sits along the Han River – and boasts just a handful of sights. To the east of the city is a long stretch of beautiful Vietnam beaches.… Read the rest
With a gripping history and enchanting sights, Hue is a must-visit city in Vietnam. Twice serving as a capital city – first, during the mid-1700s as part of the Dang Trong Kingdom and, the second time, from 1802 until 1945 as the Imperial City of the Nguyen Dynasty – Hue is a fascinating city to see.… Read the rest