Find Vietnam

Highlights of Vietnam

Northern Vietnam

The capital city of Hanoi, literally translated to “city on the riverbanks”, is a city that represents the traditional Asian elements of design with a clear touch of French and American flair. This urban hub has the dichotomy of Western civilization balanced against all that is historic and local to the country for a perfectly surreal Vietnamese experience. Hanoi is an adventure in all regards, from crossing the bustling streets to tasting the exotic flavors and cuisine. Its architecture evokes some New-Orleans-style American vibes while also evoking the delicate traditional facades of Rome and other European colonized Asian countries. A few hours’ drive from the city leads to striking scenery with lush, billowing green rice fields and opportunities for incredible hiking.

Halong Bay

Picture stunning limestone grottos, inlets, and islands, surrounded by crystal clear water and set among the passing junks that have been used here since ancient times. This is Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the limestone formations that dot the seascape, take a cruise on a junk, visit the nearby floating cities, or see the unique wildlife of Cat Ba Island; but whatever you do, don’t leave Vietnam without visiting Halong Bay.

Mekong Delta

The historic Mekong Delta area surrounds and is sustained by the river of the same name and is located between Ho Chi Minh City and Cambodia. It is the major rice and fish source for all of Vietnam and hosts spectacular greenery, floating markets, ancient temples, and wildlife, including one-quarter of all of the bird species in the country. Cruise the river and see daily life, birdwatch, visit the flower and fresh fruit markets, and encounter ancient temples.

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, once known as Saigon, is another iconic metropolis at the root of Vietnam culture. Adoration and respect for the country’s leaders are evident when visiting the mausoleum in the town, with lines around the block to pay homage to the former president, Ho Chi Minh. The city once known as Saigon is also home to the Temple of literature, dedicated to Confucius, dating back to the year 1070 and still remarkably relevant and popular today.

Travel Guide

A proper exploration of Vietnam requires multiple weeks but for those looking to take advantage of their time in Southeast Asia can easily add on neighboring countries like Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Myanmar. While no US carriers currently offer nonstop service to Vietnam, most European carriers do and there is frequent and easy connecting service with nearby hubs like Bangkok, Singapore, Hong Kong and Beijing.