Vietnam: Best Bits

Vietnam is only recently beginning to become a popular destination for western tourists, but those who do take a break from normality and visit this or any other part of the Far East will find a remarkable country waiting for them. Vietnam offers so much to do, see and experience that it has something for everybody. Here are some of the things to get excited about when planning a visit to the country.

Food: Similar to the cuisine of its neighbours Thailand and Cambodia, Vietnam has an excellent reputation for food. A taste for rice and noodles will probably be needed, but there is plenty of choice to please everyone. Spring rolls are delightful, especially when rolled yourself, and noodle soup is often available for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The seafood available along the long coastline is amongst the best in the world, and extremely affordable at roadside restaurants. For those who want to really cut loose and do as some of the Vietnamese do, dog is available in certain places.

Drink: Green tea is amongst the most refreshing drinks that can be tasted, and is great with any meal. For those who want to drink something a bit stronger, Vietnamese beer is highly touted. Hanoi and Saigon beer are refreshing, cheap and sometimes even cold! Bia Hoi is the true delight for beer drinkers. Served on the day it is made, it can be found on almost every corner of Hanoi and is available for the sum of 7p a glass. Refreshing and tasty, it is also preservative-free, meaning no hangovers!

Things to do: One of the highlights of Vietnam is the beautiful Halong Bay, where over three thousand islands rise out of the water. Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are fascinating cities with plenty to do and see, while the Mekong Delta is a great place for a day out exploring Vietnam’s coast and its rice production. The Cu Chi Tunnels offer a glimpse into the life of the Vietcong, fighting the Americans during the war. It is hard to believe that even the widest of tunnels has been widened especially for tourists. At Hue visitors can marvel at the remnants of Vietnam’s imperial history, while Hoi An provides the ideal spot for rest and relaxation of the beach.

Transport: Unlike its neighbour Cambodia, Vietnam does have a railway system, and this is the favoured way of getting around. Travelling on the trains is hard work but a very fun experience, though they are slow moving and usually late. Whole families cram into the tiniest spaces and sleepers are jolted out of their bunks, but it’s impossible not to enjoy the strange experience.

The People: While more reserved than the Thais or the Cambodians, the Vietnamese are very friendly and willing to help visitors. If you are polite and respect their way of life, they will respond in kind and help you on your way.

Vietnam provides a great holiday destination, even if it has yet to be properly discovered by westerners. For cheap flights, take a look at Travelzoo, who regularly have bargains available for a Far Eastern adventure.