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Top 10 Best Places To Visit In Vietnam

As a developing country located on the Pacific Ocean, Vietnam possesses many strengths to develop tourism. Indeed, in addition to new lands outside the territory, many excursion believers still choose to explore and check-in at Vietnamese tourist destinations. Not only finding new places to explore, visitors also feel and rediscover the heroic history of the nation, as well as the wonderful natural scenery of Vietnam. Ha Long Bay - A UNESCO World Heritage Site So, Let's find out Top 10 Best Places To Visit In Vietnam 1. Hanoi Hanoi, the heart of Vietnam, the City of Peace recognized by UNESCO is a cannot be missed destination in your Vietnam trip. 4000 years of history, culture and lifestyle of Vietnamese converges in Hanoi. Hoan Kiem Lake Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam, located in the north of the country. It has a long and rich history. It is also a cultural hub, with influences from French and Chinese civilizations, as well as various religions. Hanoi is a vibrant and dynamic city, with many attractions for visitors to enjoy. There are many things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital city. You can explore the Old Quarter, visit historical sites like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature, enjoy cultural shows at the Opera House, shop at Dong Xuan Market, or take a cruise to Halong Bay. You can also try delicious Vietnamese food like pho, bun cha, banh mi, and egg coffee. Temple of Literature Read more: Hanoi Overview, what to do and what to see in Hanoi 2. Ha Long Bay If you travel to Vietnam, Ha Long Bay is a must-see destination for you as it is beauty. A comfortable 3½-hour drive from Hanoi capital city, Ha Long Bay or the Bay of the Descending Dragon, which was twice recognized as the UNESCO natural heritage, is one of Vietnam’s most prized treasures as well as the pride of all Vietnamese. Ha Long Bay's Islands and Cruises Ha Long Bay, whose tranquil beauty encompasses indigo sea and more than 3,000 limestone islands and rocky outcrops, is both mystical and magnificent making it an exceptional feat of nature that almost never fails to impress.  Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular travel destination in Vietnam. It is famous fo r it s thousands of limestone islands and caves, which create a stunning seascape. You can enjoy various activities in Ha Long Bay, such as cruising, kayaking, swimming, hiking, or visiting floating villages. Kayaking in Ha Long Bay The travel distance from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay is about 100 miles (160 km). The fastest way to get there is by car via the Hanoi-Hai Phong highway, which takes about 2.5 hours. You can also take a bus, a minivan, a train, a taxi or a seaplane. Read more: Ha Long Bay Overview, what to do and what to see in Ha Long Bay 3. Sapa Sapa is one of the best places in North Vietnam. When travelers visit Vietnam and North Vietnam, Sapa is a must-see for admiring the natural beauty and learning about the local life.  Located about 350 km to the north-west of Hanoi, Sapa District in Lao Cai Province, is a very soothing place to visit, an attractive little town set over steep hills attracting a large number of international travelers for its views and topographic mountains at the average height of 1500m- 1800m, for its impressive, rugged scenery as well as for its rich cultural diversity. Ta Phin Village Sapa offers some of Vietnam’s best trekking, with stunning views of rice terraces, waterfalls and villages. You can also experience the culture and lifestyle of various ethnic groups, such as the Hmong, Dao, Tay and Giay. Trekking in Sapa Read more: Sapa Overview, what to do and what to see in Sapa 4. Ha Giang Ha Giang is a province in the far north of Vietnam, bordering China. It is known for its spectacular scenery of limestone mountains, winding roads and colorful ethnic markets. Ha Giang is a great destination for adventurous travelers who want to explore the remote and untouched beauty of Vietnam. Lung Cu Tower Some of the best things to do in Ha Giang: Visit Milestone KM 0 at the city centre of Ha Giang. See Twin Mountain Quan Ba which looks like two breasts rising from the rice field. Explore Yen Minh Pine Forest which has a peaceful and romantic atmosphere. Visit Lung Cu Flagpole which marks the northernmost point of Vietnam with a giant flag waving on top of a tower. Learn about Hmong culture at Sung La Village which is also known as Flower Hmong Village because of their colourful costumes and houses decorated with flowers. Shop for local products at Dong Van Market which is held every Sunday morning with various goods such as clothes, food, handicrafts and livestock. 5. Hoi An Hoi An is a beautiful city in Vietnam’s Quang Nam Province and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 19991. It has a rich history and culture, with influences from Chinese, Japanese and French architecture. It is also surrounded by rivers, rice paddies, beaches and countryside. Hoi An Ancient Town You can enjoy many activities in Hoi An, such as cycling, boating, café-hopping, shopping, visiting ancient te mples and bridges, or relaxing on the sand. Some of the popular attractions in Hoi An are Japanese Covered Bridge, Hoi An Ancient Town, Hoi An Night Market and ALLEY Artist House. Japanese Covered Bridge The best time to visit Hoi An is from February to May when there’s plenty of sunshine, clear skies and warm temperatures. You can also experience some of the local festivals such as the Lantern Festival or the Full Moon Festival during this time. Read more: Hoi An Overview, what to do and what to see in Hoi An 6. HueHue was the capital of Vietnam in 1802 - 1945. The city is located in the central part of the country, on the banks of the Huong Giang River or Perfume River, approximately halfway between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City and 2 hour-drive from Da Nang. It is famous for its imperial citadel, tombs, temples and pagodas that reflect its glorious past. It is also a cultural and religious center with many festivals and traditions. The Imperial City Hue is usually visited with an excursion to see the Imperial Citadel, ancient temples, pagodas and tombs. Some of them are declared by the UNESCO as the world heritage of mankind. The inspection can take from 2 to 5 days, depending on the number of places that you’ve already planned to visit. Perfume River and Trang Tien Bridge Read more: Hue Overview, what to do and what to see in Hue 7. Da Nang Located in the middle of Central Vietnam, between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City , Da Nang City is not only one of the biggest cities in Vietnam but also one of the cultural and educational centers as well as the most popular tourist destination of the S-shaped country. The Golden Bridge Da Nang is a coastal city in central Vietnam, known for its modern development, beautiful beaches and cultural attractions. Da Nang is a convenient travel hub to explore the central region of Vietnam, as it has an international airport and connections to trains and buses. Some of the popular places to visit in Da Nang are: The Marble Mountains, a group of five limestone hills with caves, pagodas and views of the city. The Dragon Bridge, a spectacular bridge that spans the Han River and breathes fire on weekends. The Ba Na Hills, a resort complex on a mountain with a cable car, a theme park and a replica of a French village. The Son Tra Peninsula, a natural reserve with beaches, forests and wildlife. The Cham Museum, a museum that displays artifacts from the ancient Cham civilization that ruled central Vietnam. The Marble Mountain Read more: Da Nang Overview, what to do and what to see in Da Nang 8. Phu Quoc Covering 515 sq. km (199 sq. mi), the same size as Phuket in Thailand, Phu Quoc, which is 50kms from the Vietnamese mainland, is the largest island in Vietnam really famous for its resorts and beautiful white sand beaches. Phu Quoc Island Phu Quoc is an island in Southern Vietnam, famous for its tropical beaches, coral reefs and natural parks. Phu Quoc is Vietnam’s largest island and a popular destination for water sports, such as snorkeling, diving and kayaking. Some of the attractions on Phu Quoc are: The Phu Quoc National Park, a protected area that covers more than half of the island and hosts diverse flora and fauna. The Vinpearl Land Phu Quoc, a resort complex with a theme park, a safari park and a golf course. The Dinh Cau Rock Temple, a shrine dedicated to the sea goddess that overlooks the fishing harbor. The Phu Quoc Prison Museum, a historical site that displays the harsh conditions of prisoners during the Vietnam War. The Duong Dong Night Market, a lively market where you can find seafood, souvenirs and local specialties Phu Quoc Prison Read more: Phu Quoc Overview, what to do and what to see in Phu Quoc9. Ho Chi Minh CityHo Chi Minh City (the old name of the city is Saigon) is the largest city in Vietnam, the locomotive of the Vietnamese economy, and the most important cultural and educational center of the country. Ho Chi Minh City is the largest metropolitan city in the South of Vietnam, in a picturesque place, in the Mekong Delta.Romantic Sunset in Ho Chi Minh CityThe southern capital of Vietnam is more than a curious tourist destination. Whatever the traveler wants - rich excursions or a bustling nightlife, exotic Vietnamese cuisine or the usual European dishes, chic hotels or budget guesthouses are not difficult to find in Ho Chi Minh City.Bui Vien Walking Street at nightRead more: Ho Chi Minh City Overview, what to do and what to see in Ho Chi Minh City10. Mekong DeltaThe Mekong Delta is a region in southwest Vietnam, where the Mekong River splits into many branches and canals before reaching the sea. The Mekong Delta is known for its rich biodiversity, agricultural production and cultural diversity. The Mekong Delta has a long history of human settlement and cultural diversity. It was part of the ancient civilizations of Funan and Chenla, which flourished between the 1st and 9th centuries AD. It has been influenced by various cultures, such as Khmer, Vietnamese, Chinese, and French. Floating Market in Mekong DeltaSome of the activities and attractions in the Mekong Delta are: Taking a boat tour along the waterways and visiting floating markets, villages and islands. Exploring the natural beauty and wildlife of national parks, such as Tram Chim, U Minh Thuong and Tra Su. Learning about the history and culture of different ethnic groups, such as Khmer, Cham and Chinese. Sampling local delicacies, such as coconut candy, snake wine and elephant ear fish.Read more: Things to do in Vietnam's Mekong DeltaVietnam's S-shaped land is a remarkable tourist destination, offering all sorts of experiences from trekking in the mountains, relaxing in urban night lights, resting on the beach, enjoying delicious food, and more.Each destination in Vietnam has its own meaning to make each trip an unforgettable memory. And it's not just about the 10 best places to visit in Vietnam above; This country has many things waiting for you to discover along the way. Prepare well for your trip to Vietnam and be ready for the surprises to come. Please contact incredibleasiajourneys.com to plan your own holidays in Vietnam.

Sapa Trekking: A Dream Destination for Nature and Culture Lovers

Sapa, located in the Northwest of Vietnam, is a wonderful destination for travelers who love nature, culture, and adventure. This mountainous region boasts stunning views of rice terraces, valleys, waterfalls, and peaks. It’s also home to several ethnic minorities such as the H’Mong, Dao, and Tay who have preserved their unique traditions and lifestyles for centuries. The beautiful picture of Sapa Trekking is definitely the best ways to explore the nature of Sapa. It allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty and diversity of the landscape while interacting with local people and learning about their culture. However, trekking in Sapa requires preparation and planning as there are different levels of difficulty, routes, and options to choose from.  In this article, we will share tips and advice on planning your Sapa trekking adventure based on our experience and research. When is the best time to enjoy trekking in Sapa? Not every season is ideal for trekking in this mountainous region. You need to consider the weather, the scenery, and your preferences before you book your trip. Here are some tips on when to go trekking in Sapa and what to expect in each season. Spring (March-May): This is a great time to go trekking in Sapa if you love sunny days and blooming flowers. The weather is dry and moderate, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The plants and trees are starting to grow after the winter, creating a vibrant green landscape. This is also the time when the local people are planting rice in the terraced fields, which is an interesting sight to witness. Spring is a good season for solo trekkers who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet on the trails. Sapa in Spring Summer (June-August):  This is the rainy season in Sapa, which means you will encounter humid and wet conditions on your trek. The temperatures can reach up to 30°C, but the rain can cool things down quickly. The rain can also make the trails muddy and slippery, so you need to be careful and wear proper shoes. On the bright side, summer is when Sapa is at its greenest and most lush. You can also enjoy some waterfalls and streams along the way. The rain does not last all day, so you can still have some sunny hours to admire the scenery. Sapa in Summer Autumn (September-November): This is another excellent time to go trekking in Sapa if you want to see the golden hues of the rice harvest. The weather is still dry and pleasant, with temperatures between 15°C and 28°C. The rice fields are at their most photogenic, with beautiful shades of green and yellow. This is also the best time to climb Fan Si Pan, as the visibility is high and the views are spectacular. However, autumn is also the high season in Sapa, so expect more tourists and higher prices. Sapa in Autumn Winter (December-February): This is the coldest season in Sapa, with temperatures dropping as low as 0°C. You may even see some snow on the higher peaks, which can be a rare and magical experience. However, winter also brings fog and mist, which can reduce your visibility and affect your views. The trails can be icy and slippery, so you need to wear warm clothes and layers. Winter is a good season for adventurous trekkers who want to challenge themselves and see a different side of Sapa. Sapa in Winter Choose Your Trekking Difficulty Level Before embarking on your trekking adventure in Sapa, it’s important to decide on the level of difficulty you want to experience. Sapa offers three main levels of trekking difficulty: easy, medium, and hard. Easy Trekking: Perfect for beginners or those looking for a leisurely walk. These treks typically last one to two days and cover 10-15 km per day. You’ll enjoy views of rice fields, mountains, and villages. You’ll also visit ethnic minority villages such Lao Chai, Ta Van where you can stay overnight at a homestay or hotel. Medium Trekking: Ideal for intermediate or experienced trekkers seeking a bit more challenge. These treks usually last two to three days and cover 15-20 km per day. You’ll follow a similar route as the easy treks but add a detour to Cat Cat Village, an old village of the Black H’Mong people at the foot of Fansipan Peak. You’ll also climb hills and cross streams and bridges along the way. Hard Trekking: For adventurous or expert trekkers looking to test their limits. These treks typically last three to four days and cover 20-25 km per day. Your goal will be to reach the summit of Fansipan Peak, the highest mountain in Indochina at 3143 m above sea level. You’ll pass through various terrains such as bamboo forests, waterfalls, rocky slopes, and snowfields while camping at different altitudes along the way. Choose Your Trekking Option The last thing you need to decide is how you want to organize your trekking trip. There are two main options: booking a tour or going independently. Booking a tour: This option is more convenient and hassle-free, as you don’t have to worry about transportation, accommodation, food or guides. You can compare prices, reviews and itineraries online or offline before booking your tour. The advantages of booking a tour are that you can save time and money, meet other travelers and support local communities. The disadvantages are that you have less flexibility and freedom, may encounter large crowds or scams and may have a lower quality of service or experience. See our best Sapa Trekking Tours:  Sapa Trekking & Bac Ha Market ,  Sapa Trekking & Explore ,  Sapa Trekking Tour with Train ,  Sapa Cycling & Trekking Tour ,  Sapa Trekking Tour with Bus ,  Sapa Adventure By Trekking Tour   Going independently: This option is more adventurous and flexible, as you can plan your own trip according to your preferences and budget. You can arrange your own transportation from Hanoi to Sapa by train or bus, book your own accommodation in Sapa town or homestays, buy your own food from markets or restaurants and hire your own guide or porter from local agencies or villages. The advantages of going independently are that you have more control and choice over your trip, can avoid tourist traps or crowds and can have a more authentic or personal experience. The disadvantages are that you have to spend more time and effort on planning and logistics, may face some difficulties or risks on the way and may miss out on some information or insights from professional guides. Amazing treks in Sapa 1. Lao Chai & Ta Van Villages Experience the magic of green rice fields and small houses nestled in the misty mountains This trek will take you to the world of traditional hill tribe villages and their rice terraces. You will follow a small path, cross the Muong Hoa River and see the homes of Lao Chai and Ta Van villages. You will learn about the rice cultivation, and the cultures of ethnic minorities such as Black Hmong, Zay, Red Dao. Trekking in Ta Van Village Duration: 1 day Trekking level: Easy – Medium Distance: 6-8 km. 2. Cat Cat – Sin Chai Villages Make friends with the adorable Black Hmong children who love to smile for photos with tourists This trek is more like a relaxing walk than a hike. Cat Cat is an ancient village of Black H’Mong people who are famous for their brocade weaving and jewelry making. You will walk to the village and see the farms and techniques used by the locals. You will also climb up to the mountain and reach Sin Chai – a village of Red Dao people with gorgeous scenery. You will be accompanied by the local children who are curious and friendly. You will also enjoy the flowers such as peach blossom, plum blossom, gladiolus, pear blossom, rose… if you come here in the spring. Cat Cat Village Duration: A half day Trekking level: Easy Distance: 3-5 km. 3. Ta Phin Village Trekking is a great way to connect with local ethnic people and discover their ways of life Ta Phin village is situated about 12km from Sapa Town. The village of Red Dao and Hmong people has a rich culture that has not been affected by the modern life. The Red Dao are known for their herbal medicine and their use of plants to treat many illnesses. Trekking through the countryside, you will see the beautiful landscape of rice fields, mountains, streams, and hill tribe houses. It is wonderful to spend some time wandering the village, seeing the local life and talking with them. Ta Phin Village Duration: A half-day to full day Trekking level: Easy – Medium Distance: 5-7 km. What to Pack for Trekking in Sapa Packing for trekking in Sapa can be hard, as you need to be ready for the weather, the terrain and the trip duration. Here are some key items that you should take for your Sapa trekking adventure: Clothing: You should take clothing that can handle different weather and temperatures. Sapa can be cold and foggy in winter, hot and humid in summer, and rainy and muddy in spring and autumn. You should take layers of clothing that are warm, waterproof, breathable and quick-drying. You should also take a hat, a scarf, gloves and socks for extra warmth. Footwear: You should take footwear that is comfortable, durable and suitable for different terrains. You will walk on dirt paths, rocky slopes, muddy fields and slippery bridges during your trekking trip. You should take hiking boots or shoes that have good grip, support and cushioning. You should also take sandals or flip-flops for resting at your accommodation or homestay. Backpack: You should take a backpack that is spacious, lightweight and comfortable. You will need to carry your backpack for several hours per day during your trekking trip. You should take a backpack that has enough space for your clothing, footwear, toiletries, water bottle, snacks, camera and other essentials. You should also take a backpack that has padded straps, waist belt and chest strap for extra comfort and stability. Toiletries: You should take toiletries that are basic, eco-friendly and compact. You may not have access to showers or toilets during your trekking trip. You should take toiletries that are essential for your hygiene and health, such as toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, deodorant, sunscreen, insect repellent and toilet paper. You should also take toiletries that are biodegradable and natural, as you may have to dispose of them in nature. You should also take toiletries that are small and light, as you have limited space and weight in your backpack. Water bottle: You should take a water bottle that is reusable, refillable and insulated. You will need to stay hydrated during your trekking trip. You should take a water bottle that is made of metal or plastic that can be reused and refilled with clean water from springs or streams along the way. You should also take a water bottle that has a lid or cap that can prevent leaks or spills. You should also take a water bottle that can keep your water cold or hot depending on the weather. Trekking in Sapa is a wonderful way to discover the beauty and diversity of Vietnam’s northern region. It is also a great way to experience the culture and lifestyle of the ethnic minority groups who live there. However, trekking in Sapa also requires some preparation and planning, as there are many factors to consider such as the difficulty level, the route, the option, the transportation, the accommodation, the guide or porter and the packing. In this blog post, we have shared with you some tips and advice on how to plan your Sapa trekking adventure. Hope this information helps you have a smooth and enjoyable trip with Incredible Asia Journeys.