Enjoy the attractions of Vietnam from mountain to sea

Sai Gon - Vietnam

Have you ever heard about Vietnam travel? Just take a look around the net and you'll be attracted by the attractions Vietnam offers. Eternal green fields fused with the bustling metropolis of Vietnam make this Southeast Asian nation a feast for the eyes. After decades of unceasing wars, Vietnam has risen from the trenches as a triumphant country proud of its unique culture and history.

If you are taking a trip the cultural and vibrant Vietnam travel information, here are some sights and experiences that are not to be missed.

Vestiges of the Past: The Cu Chi Tunnels

Witnessing some of the most gruesome encounters, take a tour on the former battlefields, foreign military bases, and national museums in the country to commemorate this time of courage. From the Cu Chi tunnels, My Lai, to the Khe Sanh grounds, you will instantly feel the cry to save the lives of people.

Holy Grounds: Temple Tours

A trip to Vietnam is partly synonymous to centuries-old architectural wonders of worship. Filled with Buddhist temples, entering these historic and highly-ornamented shrines offers a moment of tranquility on your journey. Most notable are the One-Pillar Pagoda located above a lotus pond in Hanoi and the towering Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue constructed in 1601. Visitors should wear suitable clothing that covers most of the body when going inside these sacred sites.

Through the Waters: The Mekong Delta and Halong Bay

Whether buying goods from the floating market of Mekong Delta, or cruising on a luxurious ship in Halong Bay, the rivers flowing within Vietnam serve as the channel to view the most heart-stopping sights on the land. Its clear waters and white sand also provide for amazing beach holidays where diving is a must for every ocean adventurer.

Shopping Districts: Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi

Affordability is the selling point of Vietnam when it comes to top-quality garments, handicrafts, jewelry, paintings, and souvenir items. The cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh come to life with a whole lot of products which you can get at a cheap price especially if bargaining is your prowess. Haggling is a typical scene in Vietnam but make sure to negotiate firmly but friendly, if possible, with a smile to boot. The conical hat and trademark ao dai costume are tourist favorites.

Founded on Festivals: Traditional Celebrations with Dance and Music

There is no better way to experience the Vietnemese culture than to take part in one of their many festivals throughout the year. From traditional ceremonies, vivid costumes, sports competitions, cultural music and dance, to special offerings, Vietnamese festivals pay tribute to ancestors, heroes, and the land's natural wealth. Undeniably the most-awaited celebration is the Tet or New Year festival which occurs around the end of January or early February.

Reaching the Peak: Sapa and Dalat

Tread the mountains of Vietnam for a closer look at its sweeping landscapes. The Sapa and Dalat regions are exciting destinations to breathe in the fresh air on top of the highlands. It is not surprising how mountain climbing and cycling have been a favorite for travelers as well as photographers from around the world.

Traveling to this land guarantees a rich learning experience of traditions carried by the enduring spirit of the Vietnamese people.

Vietnam vacation along the coast

It would be a pity if you visit Asia without spending a few days with Ethnic Travel Vietnam tours. Compared to other Asian countries, Vietnam is a beautiful country brimming with history, culture, temples, palaces and lush greenery. It has quickly become a top tourist destination drawing thousands of travelers from around the globe on an annual basis.

Lang Co beach in Hue

Hue is one of the first places you should consider visiting when you're in the country. Located in the central area of the country, set on a river, this area is rich in history and home to an impressive citadel and purple city. The architecture is breathtaking, an opportunity to really soak up some of the history dating back centuries.

Sapa is another must see area, located in the north west of the country. This traditional market town is bordered by rolling green hills and mountains, an outdoor adventure seekers paradise. This area is very popular with hikers and walkers and once you make your way to the top of one of these mountains, you will be amazed at the spectacular views that welcome you on the Ethnic Travel Vietnam Sapa tours.

Hanoi is the most visited city in Vietnam; it's also the second largest city. Here you can enjoy affordable prices in shops and for accommodation. The city is home to an old quarter, which is a fantastic opportunity to soak up some history and culture.

In Hanoi you can discover so much at the host of museums available. From here you can explore many parts of the country, including some of the beautiful lakes. Be aware that this is a busy city and is filled with motorcycles weaving their way down the roads, so always stay on the lookout.

When visiting getting around by public bus or car is the safest mode of transport, while most of the locals rely on motorcycles, there are a high number of accidents. Instead of spending your vacation in a hospital bed after a motorcycle accident, be aware and use public transport to keep yourself safe and explore all that this city has to offer.

Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling business hub, but also a very popular stop for visitors looking for some much needed retail therapy. There are also a number of top restaurants and bars in the area, where you can try some of the local cuisine.

Once you reach Halong Bay and take a cruise on Ethnic Travel Vietnam Halong bay tours, you will be mesmerized by the crystal clear waters and amazing rock formations. If you are lucky enough to visit this area, hire a boat for the day and explore the over 2,000 small islands surrounding the bay. Many tourists swim in the clear waters, enjoying the underwater life and exploring each rock formation close up.

Finally, there is Dahat, another very popular tourist destination in Vietnam. This area is home to French Colonial architecture, towering pine trees and an abundance of natural beauty. It's here where you will find a host of restaurants and a booming nightlife.

If you're looking for some fun nights out while visiting Vietnam, then Dahat is definitely the place to visit.

For many tourists, once they arrive in this magnificent country, they don't want to leave. It's important to remain legal and not overstay your visa and your welcome. If you want to stay longer, approach the embassy and ask for an extension, you may get another thirty days to continue your exploration.

Vietnam travel from sacred temples to natural wonders

Hanoi Literature temple

Vietnam travel news. It's pretty sad that when most people think of Vietnam it is in conjunction to the Vietnamese War. And who can blame them, the majority of movies only use it as a site for war. While it is an integral part of the country's history there is much more to Vietnam than a war it fought several decades ago. From the artistry of the countless sacred temples to the natural wonder of the Sam Mountain and Halong Bay, Vietnam has a lot to offer to the tourist. Granted it is not the easiest of places to travel through, however it is definitely worth it.

The Cost of Traveling in Vietnam

The exchange rate is 1 USD to aprox 22.300 VND (Vietnamese Dong)

If you plan to stay at a hostel, expect to pay about 5 bucks (that's around 130,000 VND). Private rooms cost between $350,000 to 400k VND for a double room. You'll best be served if you eat at the local street hawkers and stalls - the food there is both fresh and supremely cheap. 20000 VND gets you a nice rice dish or the famous pho. If you wish to eat at a proper restaurant, they're not expensive either and cost somewhere between 40,000 to 90,000 VND. And use the bus if you want to travel since it's the cheapest. The public bus around the city of Ho Chi Min City costs a mere 3,500 VND (about 16 cents). Train rides are not steeply priced either, for example the 800 km ride from Danag to Hanoi would cost less than 35 dollars.

The prime attraction in Vietnam is the natural beauty, and it won't cost you to explore that. Organized tours of sites such as the Cu Chi tunnels (which were the Viet Cong's base of operations for the Tet Offensive 1968) can cost between 100,000 to 200,000 VND however - but again, that's not really expensive. Visits to Halong Bay are around 30 dollars for 2 days and the price increases with the number of days.

Money Saving Tips

As aforementioned eat street food as much as you can - it's really cheap. If you're traveling lone distance try to take the late night train or bus, they are relatively cheaper and will save the cost of a night's accommodation as well. And if you possess the power of bargaining, you'll find it pretty helpful in Vietnam.

Top things to Do and See

Vietnam's most distinctive architecture are the Pagodas and they can be found in plentiful quantity all across the country. They are intricately carved and are elegant in their structure. Used mostly as shrines and temples, they are worth a visit.

The capital of Vietnam, Hanoi is a grand mix of French Colonialism and Eastern influence. You can explore the quaint streets of the Old Quarter and visit temples, galleries and other things located in this city. If you want an insight into Vietnamese History go check the History Museum and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

If you want to relax, head on over to Dalat which is nestled in the hills of the central highlands. Enjoy the mountain air and the serenity of the natural landscape. You can visit the tribal villages which are dotted around the nearby hills.