Vietnam

Vietnam stretches over 1,600 kilometres from the Chinese border in the north to the Mekong Delta in the south, and that geography creates a remarkable variety of landscapes, climates and cultures within a single country. Most itineraries move through the country from north to south (or vice versa), revealing distinctly different characters along the way.

Hanoi, the northern capital, is a city of elegant French colonial architecture, peaceful Hoan Kiem Lake, ancient temple complexes and some of the finest street food in Asia — phở, bún chả and egg coffee are Hanoi staples. Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site a few hours east, is one of the world’s most spectacular landscapes: over 1,600 limestone karst islands rising from emerald water, best explored on an overnight cruise.

Moving south, Hoi An is Vietnam at its most enchanting — a beautifully preserved Ancient Town of yellow-painted merchants’ houses, Japanese covered bridges and atmospheric candlelit restaurants, bordered by excellent beaches at An Bang and Cua Dai. The ancient imperial city of Huế and the dramatic Hai Van Pass separating north and south offer further historical depth.

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) in the south is Vietnam’s commercial heart — a city of extraordinary energy, excellent rooftop bars, fascinating war history museums and some of the country’s finest restaurants. Day trips to the Cu Chi Tunnels and the Mekong Delta complete a picture of a country that is still processing its recent history even as it accelerates into a vibrant future.

Vietnam is an excellent value destination and suits every type of traveller. Best time to visit depends on the region, but October to April is generally most reliable across the country.