In many ways, Vietnam is the undiscovered gem of south-eastern Asia. Visitors from around the world are often drawn to nearby countries like the Philippines (for the beaches found on more than 7,000 islands), Japan (not only for the spectacle of cities like Tokyo, but also for the history behind this surprisingly insulated island), and Thailand (it’s like the Las Vegas of the Far East). But don’t underestimate the potential of Vietnam to provide entertainment, culture, history, scenery, and everything else you’re looking for when you travel abroad. If you’re seeking a reason to visit this often underrated country, then look no further. Here are the five best reasons to skip the other Asian countries and vacation in Vietnam instead.
1. Cu Chi tunnels. These tunnels provided for one of the worst horrors of the Vietnam War, for soldiers on both sides. Enjoy a rare slice of well-preserved history when you witness the ins and outs of these tiny tunnels where some soldiers lived and fought during the war. Most tours will allow visitors to view traps and tunnels as well as shoot weapons and even go on a crawl (the quarters are close, so those with claustrophobia may want to skip the crawling portion of the tour).
2. Ben Thanh Market, Ho Chi Minh City. Shopping is pretty touristy, as activities go, but you’ll be amazed at what you can get at this central market that takes up a whole city block. You’ll find fare that would be at home in a farmer’s market, such as fresh fruit, spices, flowers, and meats (as well as coffee beans and tobacco) but you can also get clothing (especially t-shirts), souvenirs, hardware, household items, and jewelry. In short, it’s a shopper’s paradise. And if you’re visiting the city formerly known as Saigon, you should definitely stop in at this historic market (just be sure to brush up on your haggling beforehand).
3. Temple of Literature, Hanoi. Originally built as a temple to the Chinese philosopher Confucius in the 11th century, it became Vietnam’s first university shortly after, used to educate royalty and the country’s other elite. With five gorgeous courtyards, a serene pond called “The Well of Heavenly Clarity”, and several pavilions meant for study, it’s not hard to see why people would want to come here to learn. And all who graduated in the 700+ years the site functioned as a university are commemorated on various stele placed throughout the structure.
4. Haiphong. The third largest city in Vietnam is known as the City of Flower-lined Streets, and you won’t have any trouble seeing why. It is worth visiting for the historic architecture and abundant plant life, and you won’t be disappointed by the Du Hang Pagoda, a newer structure of this type (built only three centuries ago) that houses a variety of unique and decorative furnishings.
5. Cuc Phuong National Park. The major draw of this tropical primeval forest reserve (aside from the amazing array of flora, fauna, and animals present) is that it is one of the few remaining examples of its kind on the planet. So spend a day (or several) walking the 61,000 acres to view towering trees, caves and grottoes, and animals that range from the expected (monkeys) to the exotic (flying lizards). You won’t be disappointed.
Jamie Ryan writes for Barbados Holidays where you can plan your next exciting vacation.
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