A gap year in Vietnam

Gap years in Vietnam

War-torn for decades, Vietnam is one of the latest ‘secret’ destinations – but backpackers have been aware of its charms for years. If you’re looking for a Gap Year that’s a little spicier than most, then Vietnam could be just the place. It’s not an easy choice: bureaucracy and language barriers put off the travel-cowards. But if you want to eat the world’s best noodle soup, explore World Heritage caves, and buy beer at 10p a glass, then get there before the tourists do.

The best way to support yourself in Vietnam is by teaching English: the language of world business is ready currency here. Vietnam aims to become a developed country by 2010 and economic revival has already begun. Anyone with aspirations in business or tourism wants English lessons: so get out there and teach.

First things first: before you leave the UK, sort out a visa. It’s essential for any length of stay and organising it beforehand will save you hours. Once you reach Vietnam, you’ll find that domestic flights cover a great deal of the country; think about pre-booking to suit your itinerary. Cheaper and just as comfortable, rail travel is a good alternative. The North-South railway is a popular route for the backpackers who are beginning to discover the country, and the section between Hue and Danang is particularly scenic. While in the major cities, avoid taxi and motorcycle transport; drivers don’t always speak English and if they do, they might feign ignorance. All the better to fleece you. Buses are your best bet in the cities where you can’t walk. Ho Chi Minh also has plans for an extensive city subway, but it won’t be ready until 2020.

Understanding Vietnam starts with its history. After conquering Vietnam in the mid nineteenth century, France maintained its hold for almost one hundred years; Vietnam declared independence in 1945 and finally regained it in 1954. But the country couldn’t yet lay down its weapons; years of war with US, Cambodian and Chinese forces were to follow. Finally settled, today’s Vietnam is a wonderful mixture of Westernised cities and untouched landscape, all bearing the cultural and architectural marks of war. The country’s principle religion is known as ‘Triple Religion’, a blend of Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism, and the population is no less cosmopolitan. After Vietnamese and English, French is one of the most commonly spoken languages; you’ll find fresh baguettes being sold alongside Pho (noodles) on the streets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh.

It’s easy to become confused, because Ho Chi Minh is a city and a person. The former is a great place to slurp noodles and fill a case with tailor-made clothes; the latter was the great revolutionary who led Vietnam to independence in the mid 20th century. You’ll find out about the man on your travels; as for the city, it’s a busy economic capital with a population of around 6.5 million (5% of which are students). Originally – and often still – called Saigon, its history is reflected in the colonial French buildings and established Chinese population.

Prettier, older and smaller than its busier, brawnier brother Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi is a gorgeous place to stop for a slurp. Or maybe a super-cheap massage, a manicure, or a lakeside walk. Hanoi is full of interesting history, from French architecture to the Prison Museum (complete with torture equipment). And don’t miss the opportunity to gawp at Vietnam’s most famous prime minister – who was stuffed, embalmed and popped into a concrete bunker at the Mausoleum.

World Heritage listed Halong Bay (google it) is the most photographed place in Vietnam, and you’ll soon discover why. 1,500 square km of emerald water is sprinkled with almost 2,000 islands, many of which feature truly jaw-dropping caves. Try Mui Ne Beach – fabulous snorkelling to be had along its coral reefs – or rave-goers favourite, Nha Trang.