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Vietnam

  • © Carson Ganci / age fotostock

    Hanoi and Halong Bay, Vietnam

Vietnam in pictures - Hanoi and Halong Bay

  • Hanoi and Halong Bay

    Hanoi, Vietnam's capital, has a population of around 6.5 million, but this is estimated to be growing at a rate of 3.5% each year. The bustling city has all the advantages and disadvantages of your typical Asian capital. Buildings that date back to the colonial era, be it Chinese or French, stand next to towering business centres which rub shoulders with pagodas and temples. It is a place of contrasts, where authenticity blends with modernity and urban frenzy with meditation, and it is this contrast which lends this historical city a special identity. From Hanoi you can easily reach, by land or sea, Halong Bay, considered by many to be the eighth marvel of the world, where tourists from all over the world flock to enjoy a cruise among the islands strewn across the turquoise blue sea. Whether you visit Halong Bay by land or by sea, it should be an essential stop-off on your travels in Vietnam; you will undoubtedly be enthralled by its mysterious atmosphere...
    Discover Hanoi and Halong Bay
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In brief +

Weekly budget
£500
Flight budget
£800
Flight duration
18h30 
Time difference
+5h / +6h
Visa
Yes
Vaccinations
No
Currency
Dong
Language(s)
vietnamese

Vietnam :

map Vietnam

Destination overview

Stretching along the eastern parts of South East Asia, Vietnam is a culturally diverse country of imperial cities, sumptuous countryside and dramatic coastline. In contrast to neighboring Cambodia and Laos, life in Vietnam moves at a much faster pace. As heritors of a true civilisation its people have taken this country forward after almost 40 years of conflict. Their energy and direct nature is sure to keep you on your toes and wanting more. Go back and explore the fascinating remnants of the American War in the city of Ho Chi Minh, where skyscrapers sit alongside battered old silk shops and traditional temples. Head north and discover the other end of the spectrum in the city of Hanoi as it revels in the splendor of its French colonial legacy. Away from its cities you'll find the true beauty of this country. Drift among the paddyfields in the land of the peasants and their famous pointed hats or discover the mountains, jungles and mighty rivers. Go coastal and escape to the magic of Halong Bay, exploring this natural wonder of the world as you float through azure waters within a labyrinth of spectacular limestone islands. Further south, roam the streets of the charming historic port of Hoi An with its abundance of bars, restaurants and famous tailors, immerse yourself in its culture and heavenly cuisine.

pros

  •  The countryside is very varied and extremely beautiful.
  •  Locals are communicative with tourists.
  •  The cuisine is refined and varied
  •  The monuments, buildings and imperial cities

cons

  •  Hotel business of unequal quality.
  •  Be aware of traffic in the larger cities. Crossing the road is no walk in the park.
  •  The climate is not ideal from June to September.
  •  Thirty years of war have left traces that are still visible.

Vietnam Travel guide

Our Editorial team's advice

Vietnam is very large. Unless travelling for four weeks, you will need to be content with only discovering one or two parts of the country. Choose the North, South or Centre and use plane transfers when possible. Most agree that Hanoi is nicest to arrive to, and Saigon best to leave from. A week should be sufficient to visit Hanoi, Saigon, the Hue imperial tombs, Da Nang and the Mekong delta.

Vietnam : Reasons to go

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Vietnam in pictures

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  • Hanoi and Halong Bay, Vietnam
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    Hotel reviews Vietnam

    Have you been to this destination before? Where did you stay? We want to hear about it, so post your review on the EasyOpinions forum for us! Create an opinion
    • Melia Hotel Hanoi Melia Hotel HanoiMelia Hotel Hanoi
      Photo of susan humphries

      susan humphries 18/04/2011 :

      "Really a business hotel more than a tourist hotel but in a very good position for all the sights, some walkable others in a taxi.. "

      7/10 More...
    • Bamboo Village Bamboo VillageBamboo Village
      Photo of susan humphries

      susan humphries 27/03/2011 :

      "Fabulous hotel on the beach with a pool. Rooms like mini chalets and glorious tropical gardens. Restaurant with delicious food by the beach."

      8/10 More...
    • Victoria Chau Doc Hotel Victoria Chau Doc HotelVictoria Chau Doc Hotel
      Photo of susan humphries

      susan humphries 16/03/2011 :

      "Lovely hotel with old world charm right on the Mekong river in Chau Doc. Beautiful room with a view of the river, nice bathroom."

      8/10 More...

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    Neil Kreeger Section editor

    only a third of the story is completed, watch this space!

    Weather Vietnam

    • Ho Chi Minh City 27°C | 34°C 4 day weather forecast 34°C 34°C 35°C 35°C
    • Hanoi 26°C | 30°C 4 day weather forecast 30°C 34°C 37°C 32°C
    • Da Nang 28°C | 36°C 4 day weather forecast 36°C 37°C 37°C 37°C

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