Travel news
Vietnam has reopened its borders to travellers, three months ahead of schedule. The relaxation of rules means bustling Hanoi, historic Ho Chi Minh City and picturesque Ha Long Bay are viable holiday destinations once more.
Before the hordes of holidaymakers descend is the perfect time to discover the lesserknown parts of the country. Here are five ideas for your next Vietnamese vacation…
1. Phong Nha
Phong Nha-ke Bang National Park, a Unesco World Heritage Site, is home to around 300 caves, including the Son Doong cave, believed to be the biggest in the world. Before the pandemic there was a reported one-year waiting list for mythical Son Doong, but many of the regions other caves are much more accessible – and just as impressive.
2. Da Lat
If you need a breather after the hectic, motorbike-strewn metropolises of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh, make a beeline for Da Lat. Up in the central highlands of Vietnam, the hilly region benefits from cooler temperatures, lush scenery and some fascinating architecture.
3. Da Nang
Located on the coast in central Vietnam, Da Nang plays host to some of the best beaches – and most luxurious resorts – in the country, such as the white sand paradises of Non Nuoc and My Khe. The area is also packed with sightseeing opportunities, from former trading town Hoi An (a Unesco World Heritage Site) and rose-hued Da Nang Cathedral, to the pagoda-peppered Marble Mountains and the Fifth Military Division Museum, which chronicles the region’s tragic history.
4. Hue
Just north of Da Nang, coastal city Hue was the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty and is now known for majestic architecture (the sprawling Imperial Citadel is a must-see) and incredible cuisine – be sure to sample local speciality Bun Bo Hue while you’re there.
5. Ha Giang
In the far north of Vietnam, Ha Giang is a mountainous, sparsely-populated province bordering China, famous amongst intrepid travellers for the Ha Giang Loop, a four-day, three-night motorbike tour along winding roads, vertiginous passes and hairpin bends.