Vietnam Tours

Why Vietnam

It is part of the Indochinese Peninsula that borders Cambodia, Laos and south of China. Vietnam is not only one of the last communist countries in the world but also blessed as one of Asia’s most ecologically diverse! Whatever you are looking for from an Asia trip, Vietnam has it all.

Its diversity lies in the amazingly different landscapes including Halong Bay, Sapa Rice Terraces, two deltas and charming beaches; in its dynamic culture of minority groups, Chinese customs and French colonial influenced lifestyle. While the Vietnam War has left its mark on Vietnam, it has seen a remarkable turnaround since the 21st century.

Spectacular UNESCO World Heritage sites

The country has 8 UNESCO World Heritage sites with at least 6 representing its stunning nature and cultural values. For first-timers, you should at least check out 3 or 4 of them!

Asia Highlights recommends travelers taking an overnight cruise on Halong Bay to enjoy the grand karst scenery, see the Hue monuments for a glimpse of ancient imperial dynasty, walking around the Hoi An ancient town to taste the real Vietnam. An hour’s drive from Hoi An, is My Son Sanctuary, located in a rain-forest like setting with ancient temples built between 4-14th Century AD. The temples are dedicated to worship the god Shiva.

Ethnic group culture

Vietnam’s geographical diversity lies in its people. It is home to 54 recognized ethnic groups. Most of the minorities live in the Northern mountainous areas like Sapa and Central Highlands while Cham and Khmer are mainly settled along the Mekong Delta.

Asia Highlights suggest holidaymakers to try home-stay in Sapa Rice Terraces, which is possibly the best way to enjoy an authentic local lifestyle. Trekking and local markets are both worthy to put on your things to do list. A trip to the floating market by boat in the Mekong Delta offers a glimpse of local people’s life along the river.

Charming beaches

With a coastline of over 3,000 km, Vietnam boasts more than 20 beaches in Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang, Nha Trang Phan Thiet and Phu Quoc Island. The most popular one, is found in Nha Trang with luxurious resorts and a variety of water activities like scuba diving, snorkeling and parasailing. Families with children will enjoy staying at Nha Trang.

Unspoiled beaches on Phu Quoc Island are Asia Highlights’ favorites as it is less-developed and much quieter. The kite-shape island has over 9 beaches and among them Bai Truong is the most well-known for its gorgeous long beach sunsets.

Vietnam War history at a glance

The Vietnam War that lasted nearly 2 decades had left its mark on this land, making it a key part of the country’s history. For those interested in this history, Asia Highlights recommends two tours to visit: Demilitarized Zone in Hue where the region was once divided between North and South Vietnam; Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City which was used as a hiding place for supply routes, hospital, food, weapon caches and living quarters.

We ask that you bear in mind to show respect for this country’s history while visiting.

Try Vietnamese national breakfast: Pho

Pho is Vietnam’s traditional noodle-soup for breakfast, which represents the essence of Vietnam cooking! It is served with white noodles, slices of beef or chicken and seasoned with fresh herbs and spices to give flavor to the soup. A favorite dish among locals that is available from many family-run eateries to fancy international-chain hotels. Give it a try while you are there!

Best time to go

November to March is the best time to visit as temperatures are cooler ranging from 18°C to 29°C and with little rain. The peak season is from December to February. With Vietnam’s long and narrow landform this makes visiting an absolute stunning year-round destination to explore. Check more details out on Best Time to Visit Vietnam.

Appropriate accommodation

Accommodation in Vietnam covers all travelers’ needs, from low budget, mid-range to luxury resorts. Typically hotel charges range from USD$100 or more per night for a 4/5-star category.

While the convenience of hotel location is our priority (we prefer quiet areas near downtown), Asia Highlights’ standard for hotel selection also includes: range of facilities, level of service and English fluency of hotel staff. Here is a list of Top 9 Hotels in Vietnam.

Transport

Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are two major cities connecting Vietnam to the world. Direct flights from Europe to Vietnam take 11-4 hours and Australia 9-11 hours. Travelers from America need to make a stopover to other Asian cities, such as Beijing, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Seoul, Singapore, Taipei or Tokyo, taking 18-20 hours.

Food & dining etiquette

Vietnamese cuisine is considered as one of the healthiest in the world. Traditional Vietnamese food combines fresh ingredients, herbs and vegetables, with minimal use of oil and dairy, making it the ‘light cuisine of Asia’. You should not miss Vietnam’s street food where you can head to the Old Quarter in Hanoi to sample and see for yourself!

Must-try Vietnamese dishes includes: Pho, Cahn Chua Ca, Banh Xeo and Cha Ca. The French colonial influence is also visible in its food: French-style baguettes can be found for breakfast.

When dining together a variety of dishes are ordered and shared among one another. Before you begin to eat, the eldest is handed chopsticks and a bowl first as a mark of respect. Dining etiquette in Vietnam is quite strict but easy to comply with.

Culture and customs

Vietnam culture has been influenced by the Chinese, Khmer, French and American. The Ao Dai is considered the national dress and worn on formal occasions. On a daily basis most people wear western clothes.

Vietnamese society has a strong system of values and ethnics such as respect, learning and family. Buddhism is the main religion in Vietnam. Confucianism, Taoism and Catholicism are also present. However ancestry worship also has a key role in this nation.

Health and safety

Vietnam is considered safe for all kinds of travelers. The country has never been a victim of any terrorist attack. It is indexed as safer than 140 countries for terrorism. The political situation is stable and crime is relatively low.

However, travelers’ safety is of high importance for Asia Highlights. We encourage our travelers to take out insurance covering theft, loss or medical emergency, and to check with your local government for the latest information before departure. Read more about Stay Healthy in Vietnam.

Discover Vietnam your way

Twenty years ago we initiated a new way to travel in China: via private tour, helping travelers to discover the destination their way. In early 2016 we extended this to other Asian destinations, with Vietnam being the first.

On such a tour, you will travel independently, but with all the logistics taken care of, enjoying an itinerary designed by our specialists just for you. You will not only see the usual highlights but also discover places you never knew existed, while experiencing some unique local activities!

Just make a trip inquiry and our specialist will respond within 24 hours. The good news is that private tours in Asia are quite affordable and we don’t charge any fee for inquiries!