Vietnam Holiday – Tours & Adventure Travel for Holidays Vietnam

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Vietnam Travel Guide

Vietnam Holiday – Tours & Adventure Travel for Holidays Vietnam

PureTravel Says
“Vietnam has an overwhelming beauty and is rich in natural sceneries and beauties such as deltas like the Red River Delta and Mekong Delta, as well as other beauties including green rice-paddy fields, divine beaches, soaring mountains, dense & misty forests and many more. Vietnam is in the south east of the Indochina Peninsula. The border countries are China on the north, Laos on the northwest, and Cambodia on the southwest. Located to the east is the South China Sea.”

Vietnam Holiday Highlights

Vietnam has a very rich culture, amazing historical monuments, eye catching natural scenery, beaches, mountains, rivers and forests making for ideal eco Vietnam holidays.

Hanoi Holidays

Hanoi is the capital city and the second largest city in Vietnam. Hanoi mixes East and West culture and is suffused with a rich history and culture thanks to centuries of rule by the Chinese. The city is definately the cultural centre of Vietnam and oozes historic charm. There are more than 600 pagodas and temples in the city as well as French colonial buildings and Vietnam tours should include:

French Colonial Architecture - Hanoi has many beautiful French colonial buildings constructed by early French settlers. Many remain untouched by the modernisation which swept the city in the 1970s and 1980s. These buildings include the Grand Opera House, Presidential Palace (built between 1901 and 1906), State Bank of Viet nam, historic hotel Sofitel Metropole, and the Cathédrale St-Joseph.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum - The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is housed in a magnificent structure in the center of the city and on display within the mausoleum itself is the preserved body of Uncle Ho, Ho Chi Minh himself, who looks very peaceful. After a thorough security check, visitors shuffle through the mausoleum in a line, but remember; no talking, no photos and no shorts! The mausoleum is only for a few hours each day and is closed two days a week and for two months a year, so check before visiting.

Ho Chi Minh's Vestige - Step out of the mausoleum into Uncle Ho's fascinating vestige where he both worked and lived from 1954 to 1969 when he died. Visitors can see his two houses, immaculately preserved as well as his cars and pond complete with carp.

Fine Arts Museum - Visit the fine arts museum to see silk paintings, Buddhist art and pieces covering 20th century wars. There is no English information though and only a little in Vietnamese.

One-Pillar Pagoda - Constructed in 1049, the One-Pillar Pagoda is highly respected among Buddhists who travel to Vietnam. The pagoda is hidden between the mausoleum and museum and can be busy with tourist groups at peak periods.

National Museum of Vietnamese History - This museum offers excellent collections of Vietnamese antiques, ceramics, southern ethnic groups, and rare ancient artifacts and some of the descriptions are available in English. The comprehensive displays date from 1,000 years ago and up to 1945.

Ho Chi Minh Museum - The museum is situated in a French colonial building on the banks of the Saigon River. Only finished in 1990, the stark white building is said to resemble a white lotus. Sail on the Saigon River and re-live the experiences when young Ho Chi Minh set sail for the first time to Europe in the beginning of 20th century, with his photos and letters on display.

Museum of Ethnology - For an intriguing look into the cultures and rituals of the ethnic groups of Vietnam, head to the Museum of Ethnology. There is an open air museum with characters in local attire and plenty of information to better understand the local culture.

Dong Xuan Market - There are around forty stalls at the indoor Dong Xuan Market which caters mostly to tourists. There is a good assortment of local handicrafts such as textiles, art and ceramics. There is also a good array of local food on offer with such dishes as fried frog and raw duck blood juice.

Army Museum - Set amongst four buildings on Dien Bien Phu Street, the Army Museum is an interesting glimpse into two millenia of Vietnam's military history. There are some good exhibits and information is also in English and French. Outside a Mig-21 jet fighter, T54 tank and various assorted bombs are also on display.

Ho Chi Minh City Holidays

Ho Chi Minh City is also known as Saigon to the locals. Saigon Vietnam is the largest city in Viet nam and the former capital of the Republic of Vietnam, the city is the vibrant commercial hub and great for a Saigon travel adventure. The city offers a complete glimpse of Vietnam travel to overseas visitors and you trip should include:

Reunification Palace - This is the former home of the president of South Vietnam and most standard Saigon tours will include a visit here. The Reunification Palace is one of the most interesting places among visitors whilst on a travel in Vietnam because of its role in the war as well as the unique architecture. While visiting, don’t forget to see the amazing collection of vintage phones and radios.

War Remnants Museum - The War Remnants Museum is formerly known as the Museum of Chinese and American War Crimes. Aside from glimpses into atrocities suffered during wartime, the museum has many ancient helicopters, tanks, jets, and other armaments to observe, a sobering moment on a Saigon holiday.

Notre Dame Cathedral - This French creation is the reminder of the French legacy. The 18th century bricks and stained glass structure is the beautiful example of Ho Chi Minh City’s architectural heritage. Most viet nam holidays itineraries will include a trip here.

Giac Lam Temple - The 1744 structure, the Giac Lam temple is probably the oldest Chinese temple to see on Ho Chi Minh tours of the City (also called HCM Vietnam) and is highly regarded.

Vung Tau - Vung Tau offers fresh and clean beaches and is a popular destination for those looking for exotic beaches whilst on Vietnam tours and is a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of a Ho Chi Minh holiday.

Mekong Delta - The Mekong region is situated to the east of HCMC and is also known as the Nine Dragon River Delta and is the wonderful waterway to southern Vietnam travel. For the lovers of water sports, the Mekong Delta is one of the best places visit. Several water sports and boat tours are available to tourists. There are infinite selections of itineraries such as afternoon cruises, night trips and 2-3 day tours available on your Vietnam Hanoi travel adventure. You can also sail to Phnom Penh in Cambodia.

Jade Emperor Temple - The Jade Emperor Temple is one of the most popular Chinese temples in Vietnam. The 1909 structured temple was built in honor of Emperor of Jade.

Ben Thanh Market - Possibly the oldest and probably the busiest market in all of Vietnam, the Ben Thanh Market is bustling with over 3,000 stalls in one open-air square. Situated in District 1 between the streets of Le Loi, Ham Nghi, Tran Hung Dao and Le Lai, the market sells coffee, food, clothes, trinkets, Chinese medicine - in fact everything you might need (and plenty of things that you'd never need) can be found here! So be prepared to jostle with the locals and practice your bartering skills!

Hue Holidays

Hue is full of culture and is included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Site and has a unique charm. Hue is 400km south of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City tours are about 550km away. The famous Perfume River is also located in the city as well as:

Imperial City - The Imperial City is one of the largest attractions of Hue with several sprawling complexes, temples, walls, museums, and galleries that feature various eras of Vietnamese history.

Cua Ngo Mon - Also known as The Noon Gate, this is the main entrance to the city from the south. The Noon Gate was built in 1823 by Gia Long and presents a wonderful example of ancient architecture.

Thai Hoa Palace - Thai Hoa palace is another site worth visiting on your tour Vietnam. Also known as the Palace of Supreme Harmony, the 1833 structure is the living example of architectural expertise. Visit the Palace to receive glimpse of exquisite artistry through wall paintings, the emperor's coronation hall, and his original throne.

Halong Bay Holidays

A visit to UNESCO World Heritage site Ha Long Bay is recommended. Halong Bay is in teh north of Vietnam and is to the eat of Hanoi by 170km. Many visitors are drawn to Halong for its serene glimpse of everyday life on the bay, ancient rock formations and activities and adventures on the water.

Rent A Junk - Stay overnight or a least a few hours aboard a traditional junk on Halong Bay. Gawp at some of the 1,969 limestone islands which rise up from the waters. Routes are monitored and visitors will need to buy a ticket and choose a route around the bay. Route one is Thien Cung Grotto and Dau Go Cave. Route two will visit Sung Sot Cave and route three will explore Su Tu Bien Islet. The choice is yours!

When To Go - Vietnam Guide

Vietnam has a tropical monsoon climate with monsoon season running from May to September in the south and October to April in the north.

When on a south Viet nam tour the dry season is from December to May and rains from may through to November, although these can be light showers. Day temperatures can be as high as 40C from March-May and rarely fall below 20C.

Whilst on north Viet nam travel it is cold from late December to early March and the weather is pleasant from March onwards with day temperatures reaching an average 30C.

The Tet Festival (New Year) is held during January to early February and this period could be busy locally.

Top Tips for Vietnam Adventure Holidays

Social Etiquette - Etiquettes such as handshaking and greeting are normal. Your clothing should be simple and informal on your Vietnam vacations. In Vietnam only children wear shorts so, if possible, try to avoid them, especially if on a Vietnam luxury tour. You have to remove any footwear when entering temples and Buddhist pagodas. Do not touch Vietnamese people on the head.

Photography - Taking photographs is normal and allowed, though except restrictions at some places such as ports and airports. If you wish to take photos, it’s better to ask permission first.

Travel – The main airports for a Vietnam trip are Noi Bai International Airport, 35km north of Hanoi and Tan Son Nhat International Airport, 7km from your Ho Chi Minh City vacation.

There are bus and taxi services available for your Hanoi holiday and other parts of country on your vacation Vietnam.

There are many ports such as Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, Cam Ranh, Da, Qui Nhon, Haiphong, Da Nang, and Vung Tau. International cruise services are available from these ports.

For traveling while on Vietnam trips, there is a rail service from Vietnam Railways available. For international travelers it’s advisable to avoid traveling by rail. You can also go cycling Vietnam as an option to really explore the country.

There are several road routes to China through Mong Cai, Lang Son, and Lao Cai available. Similarly, you can also cross Vietnam from Cambodia through Moc Bai. Road service to Laos is also available from Lao Bao and Cau Trieu.

Language - When in Vietnam, it’s a good idea to request an English speaking travel Vietnam guide, as most signs are written in the Vietnamese language.

Vietnam Holidays in Focus

Adventure and Activities on Vietnam Trips

Make sure to include adventure activities on your Vietnam tour. Vietnam offers various adventure sports and activities. You can play golf, go motor biking, rock climbing, river rafting etc. and experience the thrill of exploring rugged terrains.

Hiking - Want to know Vietnam more closely? Explore the scenic mountains up north. Get drunk with the mesmerizing setting of nature in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. The grassy tracks of Mekong Delta are another destination for memorable hiking expeditions.

Jungle Trekking - Vietnam is the country of deep forests. Explore the virgin interiors of the forests and observe the abundance of local flora and fauna in the jungles of Vietnam. The jungle trekking is one of the best adventure activities you can do in the country.

Water Sports - Vietnam has several rivers that allure international tourists to surf their beaches, swim, river rafting, and play many other water adventures. Venture to Ha Long Bay and you will be bowled over by the spectacular scenery herein.

Scuba Diving at Vung Tau and Nha Trang Beaches - Visit the places and you will discover the innumerable colors of water sports whilst on a Vietnam adventure. Scuba is one of them.

Rafting in the Pong Nha River – Experience the thrill of river rafting in the river Pong Nha. You can go windsurfing in the numerous beaches as well.

Kayaking in the Ha Long Bay - Vietnam is one of the most favored places for paddling activities. While in the country don’t forget to kayaking in the Ha Long Bay. The dramatic setting at the Ha Long bay that includes charming isles, wonderful beaches, quaint bays, beautiful coastal areas, and dark caves makes it the perfect place for water adventures.

Nature and Wildlife

Lakes - Hanoi is rich in natural beauty as well. The city is called City of Lakes due to its many scenic lakes. The most famous lakes that every traveler should visit are Hoan Kiem Lake, Halais Lake, West Lake, and Bay Mau Lake.

Visit the Hoan Kiem Lake when you are holidaying in Vietnam, where you can participate in martial arts sessions, do amazing tai chi stunts, and make your tour a memorable one. You can also visit the West Lake, the city’s biggest lake. It’s located on the foot of the Beverly Hills. There are also several trendy restaurants & clubs available in this lake area. The 6th century Tran Quoc, Vietnam's oldest pagoda, is also a site situated in the middle of the lake.

For cultural and spiritual travelers, there is a ‘boddhi’ tree. The tree is grown from the seeds of the tree under which Gautam Buddha achieved enlightenment.

Classic Itineraries - Visit Vietnam

Vietnam adventure holidays offers a wide range of experiences to international travelers. There are several tranquil beaches such as Mui Ne Beach, mountains and popular party places such as Nha Trang and many more. You will find wonderful rock formations and grottoes of Halong Bay at Halong Vietnam to explore as well. Alternatively for adventure lovers, Halong Bay Vietnam also offers several trekking places in the northern mountains. Sapa further north is also recommended for hiking and trekking opportunities.

Vinh Moc Tunnels - The Vinh Moc tunnels are the examples of true patience and dedication. Built between 1965 and 1966, the tunnels are over 70 feet deep, and spread over 64,000 square feet of area. With underground homes, a small cinema hall, and a hospital, these tunnels speak the story of that time and how a whole community used to live in these tunnels.

Dalat - Dalat has wonderful and challenging mountains in Asia. With perfect climate the place offers excellent mountain biking opportunity for adventure lovers.

Pinhatt Mountain - Wear your adventure gear and bike the trails of Tuyen Lam Lake to the top of Pinhatt Mountain. Experience the true fun of mountain biking when enjoying the scenic view of the hills.

Thuan An Beach - For those who want an escape from the hustle and bustle of cities, Thuan An beach is the perfect place. Located just 8 miles to the north, the beach is one of the most popular places among overseas travelers.

Cu Chi Tunnels - The Cu Chi Tunnels are one of the surprises that every visitor should include in their program. These tunnels are located 40 miles northwest of Ho Chi Minh City. The 200 mile long tunnels with multiple chambers are built under the city.

The most important aspect about these tunnels is that these tunnels were dug with bare hands and ordinary tools. The 1940 structures were first made during the French regimen and expanded later during the 1960 Vietnam War. These are the tunnels that saved Cu Chi people, where they slept, ate, healed their wounds, planned attacks, and taught their young.

The amazing tunnels are the engineering marvels that you not one should miss. There are many agencies that offer tours to Vietnam and many also visit the Cu Chi Tunnels. You can crawl through the tunnels to experience the Cu Chi days, which is an experience in itself not to be missed on tours of Vietnam.

Nha Trang Holidays

The town of Nha Trang is probably best known as Vietnam’s premier seaside resort and is pretty lively (certainly more so than Mui Ne and Phu Quoc beach towns). Nha Trang is scuba diving capital of Vietnam and boasts many watersports opportunities. It is also each to reach as it's on the main Hanoi-HCMC rail line and is served by its own local airport.

Da Nang Holidays

The third largest city in Vietnam, Danang is on the eastern coast by the South China Sea. And as it is halfway between Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, Danang proves to be a popular tourist spot.

Hoi An Holidays

Hoi An was an important international port during the 16th and 17th centuries and today retains a sense of style and beauty with quaint vehicle-free lanes, ancient shophouses and plenty of intriguing historical sites. Now designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hoi An is on the east coast of Vietnam and just south of Danang.

Suggested Itineraries

-Sample the Vietnam music scene.
-Explore Nha Trang Vietnam.
-Explore Sapa Vietnam for amazing hiking opportunities
-See the water puppet show in Hanoi.
-See the Colonial architecture and French influence.
-Cruise Ha Long Bay on a boat trip, with an overnight stay if possible.
-Take a trip on The Reunification Express
-Visit Danang
-Visit Phan Thiet
-Explore the quaint streets of Hoi An
-Take a boat trip along the Mekong Delta