Vietnam is a land of diverse landscapes, cultural complexities, and staggering natural beauty.
Vietnam’s glorious history is one of colonization, war, and rebellion. This Southeast-Asian country was once a lesser-known destination, but in recent years it has become widely popular. Due to it’s growing popularity, it has become quite common in people’s bucket lists, and it should be on your list too.
Why Should Vietnam Be On Your Bucket List?
Vietnam is full of mountainous terrains, wetlands, tropical forests, and long coastlines. The emerald rice paddies and the obscure karst peaks of Vietnam are a sight to behold. Due to its prolonged history of colonization and invasion, you can find Chinese and French influence worldwide, starting from the colonial-era buildings to the exquisite pagodas to the royal tombs. But what exactly attracts the tourists to this place? Let us find out:
Chills And Thrills And Stills
Vietnam has all the thrills and the chills provided you have the bills. And if you own a camera, get ready to take the most beautiful stills in Vietnam:
Phong Nha-Ke Band National Park
Jagged hills shrouded in rainforests and rivers coursing through spectacular ravines make this national park impressive. Some fortunate travelers can experience the chambers of the world’s largest cave, Hang Son Doong, but more accessible thrills are of Hang Toi (Dark cave) where you can go kayaking.
Halong Bay
The superb scenery of this World Heritage wonder makes for the best “me” time you can relish. Experience the ethereal misty karst limestone peaks and go for a cruise ride on the shimmering waters of this mystical place.
Cat Tien National Park
Popular activities of this place include wildlife spotting, cycling, and trekking. The most famous Wild Gibbon Trek is an activity you must do.
Phu Quoc Island
It is ideal to slip into low gear and enjoy the seaside cocktail and the blood-orange sunsets. Hop on a bike to experience an intimate view of this island edged with white sand beaches.
Con Dao Island
The island is a heavenly destination that boasts pristine dive sites, remote beaches, and rainforests. It is one of the most exquisite charming places to explore.
Ba Be National Park
Loaded with natural beauty, this place is an essential destination for adventure lovers. Limestone mountains, evergreen forests, waterfalls, caves, lakes, and many more spectacles to witness can be found here. For the best experience, explore this place by boat or by mountain-biking excursion or by trekking.
Sapa
A cascade of rice terrains can be witnessed in the countryside surrounding this place. The most spectacular rural vistas can be witnessed here as this place is brushed with all shades of the green color palette. So take out your trekking boots and hit the trails here.
Da Lat
Couples, take note of this place which is the honeymoon capital of Vietnam. The beauty of Colonial-era villas amidst pine grooves and the flower gardens is breathtaking. You can also try many adventure sports here.
Angkor Wat
You cannot miss the magnificent sight of the temples of Angkor. Apart from enjoying the spectacular view, you can also try hands-on ziplining, birdwatching, biking, etc.
Exquisite Sustenance
Nothing comes close to the Vietnamese food in Southeast Asia. The rich flavors and the freshness of the ingredients is a treat for the palate. Vietnamese cooking, known for its minimal use of oil and fresh herbs and vegetables, is one of the world’s healthiest cuisines. The national dish here is Pho, a concoction of rice noodles, beef/chicken, and fresh herbs. Other preparations like a spring roll, crab fried with tamarind, snail vermicelli, etc. are the famous street food of Vietnam. It is a heaven for seafood lovers. Most items are flavored with fish sauce (do not forget to buy a bottle of this sauce for your home), coriander, cilantro, mint, and basic that makes the food more aromatic.
Drinking is a great experience in Vietnam because locally made alcohol is very cheap here. Vietnam has a deep-rooted beer-drinking culture, so relax and enjoy the local draught beer, Bia Hoi, in any bar. Saigon Do and Bia Hanoi are other popular beers among Vietnamese. Do not miss out on the Ruou de (rice alcohol), the Vietnamese version of vodka. Head to Da lat to treat yourself with extremely good Red wine and White wine. You can also sip coconut wine in many regional markets.
Markets
The markets are full of local artisans, chefs, fishermen, and very friendly farmers. The markets here are rich in color and commerce. Photographers can capture Vietnamese villagers’ perfect shots and their piles of perfectly arranged tropical fruits and different kinds of seafood. Do not forget to explore the souvenir rich streets of Hoi An and floating markets of Mekong Delta
Conclusion
We don’t think you require any more reasons to visit this place, which has a rich history and culture and some magnificent sights and thrilling adventures. Head out and explore this place for an enriching experience.
