Ha Long Bay, ancient Hoi An, vibrant cities and the world's best street food
Vietnam is one of the world's most beautiful and culturally rich countries — a long, S-shaped nation stretching from the mountains of the north to the Mekong Delta in the south. Ha Long Bay's 1,600 limestone islands emerging from emerald water is one of the world's great natural wonders. Hoi An's lantern-lit ancient town is a UNESCO heritage site. Hue's imperial citadel echoes with royal history. Hanoi's Old Quarter is a maze of 36 ancient guild streets. And the food — Pho in Hanoi, Banh Mi everywhere, White Rose dumplings in Hoi An, and fresh spring rolls in Saigon.
Vietnam's best time depends on region. November to April is dry in the south and central coast. October to November and March to April are best for all regions. Ha Long Bay is best from October to April. Hoi An is best in February–July. The north (Sapa, Ha Giang) has cool winters and green summers.
2-day liveaboard cruise through 1,600 limestone karsts — kayaking sea caves, floating fishing villages
UNESCO-listed lantern-lit trading port — tailors' shops, Japanese Covered Bridge, cooking classes
Vast royal palace complex of the Nguyen Dynasty — throne room, royal tombs, and Thien Mu Pagoda
36 ancient street guilds, Hoan Kiem Lake, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the iconic egg coffee
Boat through floating markets, rice paper factories, coconut candy workshops, and river village life
Pho, Banh Mi, Com Tam (broken rice), Bun Bo Hue, fresh spring rolls — best street food in Asia