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| Hanoi
is the capitol of Vietnam and is located in the north of the country with
a population of more than 3 million. It has broad boulevards, lush trees,
and dozens of lakes and temples. Add a touch of French colonial architecture
to that and you have a unique city with a lot of charm. Hoan Kiem Lake
(Lake of the Restored Sword) is right in the center of the city. Nearby
is the Old Quarter where you are immersed in the hustle and bustle of the
merchant district. Each street is named for a specialty, be it silk clothing,
ceramics, motorbike seats, coffins or other arts and crafts. |
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| Halong
Bay is accessible from Hanoi and is perhaps the country’s most
beautiful region. With over 3,000 oddly shaped limestone islets, the natural
beauty of the grottoes is captivating. And for nature lovers a visit to
the northwest mountains and the exquisitely manicured rice terraces of
Sapa is a must. |
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| More
than 700 miles to the south of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City – or
Saigon as it was formerly known – is a rapidly developing and dynamic metropolis.
People sell everything from fruit to DVDs on the sidewalk and street corners.
The city remains the economic capital of the country and is booming, with
new hotels and businesses opening daily. Chic western bars and clubs are
filled with ambitious young expatriates seeking their fortunes, while all
around them life goes on as it has for countless generations. From here
one can also journey into the Mekong Delta, with its many villages that
have cottage industries and the floating markets of the mighty Mekong River. |
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| The
historic merchant trade town of Hoi An in the middle of the
country has preserved much of its old architecture. The town has a thriving
artists colony and visitors can buy unique and unusual works of art. Its
blend of Japanese and Chinese architecture reflects the commerce of bygone
days in this ancient port city. The regional food in Hoi An is superb and
attracts many tourists. Hoi An was also the first place in Vietnam to be
exposed to Christianity. |
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city of Hué, the ancient capitol of the Annamese, is
another highlight. Wander through the enormous Imperial City with its numerous
temples and royal compounds. Here too are the elaborate tombs of former
emperors, scattered throughout the environs of Hué. |
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| Nha
Trang is one of Vietnam's premier seaside resorts. Miles and
miles of empty beaches, deserted bays, numerous islands and coral reefs
provide opportunities to swim, snorkel and scuba dive. Seafood restaurants
and cafés ring the beach area and the food is excellent. Quiet beaches
can be found minutes from the center of the town. Boat trips to surrounding
coastal areas and islands provide another escape. |
