Welcome to Vietnam

Vietnam, a name too long associated with war, has finally won its last battle - to capture the imagination of its visitors. With an electric combination of old and new you can choose to explore the historical characteristics of the city or delve into the lively ever-changing nightlife.

Introducing Vietnam:

Vietnam boasts an intoxicating blend of vibrant yet traditional cities - Encompassing idyllic coastlines, breathtaking scenery, pulsating history and culture as well as delicious cuisine.

The soaring mountains in the north of the country tower over tiny picturesque villages where life continues much as it has done for centuries, with traditional costumes still proudly worn. Old French hill stations survive throughout the country offering welcome respite from the heat of the plains, especially through the months of April to October, which can be described as the summer monsoon - bringing hot humid weather to the whole country.

Elsewhere, the scenes are timeless. Early morning on the Mekong Delta brings the daily floating markets where fruit and vegetables are sold, and where fresh produce can be bought and sampled. Everywhere the green patchwork of rice paddies stretches into the distance, broken only by the silhouette of water buffalo and farm workers tending to their crops. You can so easily get lost in the tranquil, fascinating surroundings.

Vietnam’s past reads like a romantic legend, full of heroic struggles and outstanding victories. This will prove to be only one of the many reasons for visiting the beautiful city of Vietnam. You are certain to discover unparalleled opportunities for cultural exploration. The Vietnamese nation was primarily influenced by ancient Chinese and Indian cultures. The Kinh (Viet) people make up the majority of the population, however, Vietnam counts no less than 54 ethnic groups within its borders. Many of them live in remote areas and follow their own language and cultural identity, thus contributing to a harmonious blend of independent ethnicities. With such rich culture and historical significance you won’t run out of exploring treats.

Vietnam is the proud owner of three World Heritage Site cultural awards: 1) the Imperial City of Hue; 2) Hoi, an ancient town trade centre; and, 3) My Son holy land. Other cultural attractions include the capital city of Hanoi, known as the Pearl of the Far East. We girls know that diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but pearls come in second place, so a visit to this beautiful city will provide plenty of memorable charms to add to your collection.

The Best of Vietnam:

Increasingly famous worldwide with restaurants sprawled over the globe, yet no Vietnamese food abroad can equal in flavour or quality to that made in Vietnam itself- so while in this passionate city you have to take time out of the other fascinating features and sample the culinary delights.

Vietnamese food can be considered one of the healthiest yet most divine cuisines worldwide. With dishes varying from simple everyday meals to most complex dishes, reaching a perfect balance between fresh herbs and meats; as well as a selective use of spices to reach a fine taste- sure to satisfy any palette. Vietnam has a rich eating out tradition; as such restaurants vary greatly to cater for a variety of tastes. Some eateries consist of little stalls on the streets comprising of a mini stove and plastic chairs, collaborating the old charms of the city mixed with the latest and traditional cuisine.

Some restaurants are brand new, serving customary food blended with a European touch with glittering silver wear and modern music. The Pho Ga restaurant in Hanoi is famous for its quality chicken noodle soup (Hanoi pho) and has air conditioned room’s upstairs- for those who want to escape the sizzling heat both in and out of the kitchen.

You can also relax of one of the many beaches, such as the Vung Tau or Nha Trange, which both boast stunning views and include superb snorkelling around the many offshore islands. Whether want to journey to the past or the future you should visit this exciting city and enjoy the present enchantments.