Anyone relatively unfamiliar with Vietnam will know of it for two reasons: that’s where America went to war in the mid-20th century and where younger travelers are enjoying their backpacking adventures. There are different ways to appreciate this country and all the things to do in Vietnam. Some will prefer to focus on the history, seeing the war from a fresh perspective, while others will seek out the food and culture across different cities and regions. There’s a lot to enjoy, from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between.
Experiencing The History Of Vietnam
One thing comes to mind more than anything else with Vietnam, especially for US travelers, and that’s the Vietnam War. It’s still a raw subject in the living memory of many people. That intensity is what makes a historic trip to Vietnam even more interesting. You get to see the war from a different angle and learn more about what happened there. Vietnam’s major cities still retain snapshots and relics from this period. Prime examples include the Cu Chi Tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War, the Hoa Lo Prison for American prisoners of war, and the B-52 wreckage in Hanoi. Surprisingly, the former embassy in Ho Chi Minh City still stands, too.
Away from the horror and sober feel of modern wartime history, there’s so much more that teaches visitors about Vietnam’s history. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a popular spot, and it has held the leader’s preserved body since 1975. Further afield, all kinds of monuments and temples date back centuries. The Po Shanu Cham towers in Phan Thiet are particularly impressive.
Experiencing The Culture Of Vietnam
The culture of Vietnam is rich and diverse thanks to countless generations of people making this country their home and shaping its identity. There are symbols of all kinds of religions and ethnicities to be found right across the country. There is also a great blend of the old and new, traditional and non-traditional, in the country’s major cities. Ho Chi Minh City will always be popular with travelers because of its familiarity and Western feel to some of its attractions. The Suoi Tien Cultural Theme Park and city zoo are good examples. Those who are after something more traditional will enjoy the marketplaces.
Over in Hanoi, there is an equally interesting range of experiences that you can only get by visiting Vietnam. Thanks to social media clips, one of the most famous right now is Train Steet. Basically, it’s a street in Hanoi where the train line runs incredibly close to the buildings of a residential and commercial area. As long as you’re safe and respect the trains and local people, it’s worth seeing. The same is true for the unique Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, where you experience a beautiful local art form.
Experiencing The Landscape Of Vietnam
Another reason that people go to Vietnam is to take in the beautiful landscape. It’s a good idea to base yourself in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City for convenience and all the perks mentioned so far. However, you don’t want to pass up a chance to venture further afield. The natural landscape of Vietnam and the agricultural areas are both stunning. It’s no wonder that so many people decide to go trekking across the country to see as much as possible rather than sticking to one city. One area that particularly stands out is the Hoa Thang sand dunes. There is a stunning oasis-like lake with lotus flowers in the middle of the sands.
Lastly, you need to check out everything that makes Dan Nang special. This is an area where locals have found an interesting blend between the traditional and modern as a way of engaging tourists. One example is the beautiful bridge with its own fire-breathing dragon. There’s also the Am Phu cave, which has been upgraded into an underground trail with spooky daemons in the rock. There’s also a very rare Lady Buddha statue here that’s perfect for photo opportunities.
Experiencing The Food Of Vietnam
Finally, there’s the chance to experience the diverse cuisine that Vietnam has to offer. Many people keen to see Vietnam first-hand will have some experience with Pho, but there are plenty of lesser-known Vietnamese noodle dishes that are just as spectacular. You can enjoy spending time checking out the special dishes in different establishments in the major cities to see what the locals really like to eat. There may be variations on themes that your traveler friends haven’t even heard of. You can also enjoy the sights and smells of Vietnam’s dishes from some of the best street vendors in the country.
The food culture in Vietnam is diverse, and you can either stay safe with tourist-friendly dining experiences in the cities or go further afield into more daring territory. The most extreme, and once not for the faint-hearted, is Snake Village. You can leave the rest up to your imagination and see it for yourself. The more laid-back experiences tend to be found in the cafes and tea houses. One that has great cultural significance for American travelers is the Bún Chả H?ơng Liên Noodle House in Hanoi. It was here that Anthony Bourdain and Barack Obama dined together, and the table is now behind glass.
See Authentic Vietnam At Its Finest
This guide on things to do in Vietnam is just a starting point. Once you dive into the different types of experience and research the different areas in more detail, you’ll find there are even more treasures off the beaten track. If you want to go for the history, open yourself up to the harsh reality of the war and the more profound heritage of this nation. If you prefer the idea of a cultural trip, check out the temples, museums, and entertainment on offer in the bigger cities. Either way, you can do so while appreciating the stunning landscape of Vietnam and its food. You’ll soon see why it’s become a must-visit destination.