Vietnam: 10 Photos That Will Make You Want To Go
From the drama of its epic coastal vistas to the kaleidoscopic colour of its bustling cities, Vietnam is an assault on the senses. If you're on the verge of booking a trip to this unique country, why not let these 10 amazing images tip the balance…
Ha Long Bay
The majestic limestone karst formations of Ha Long Bay attract visitors from all over the world. Many enjoy an overnight stay on a Vietnamese junk, enabling them to catch the early morning grandeur of this unique location. Kayaking is a popular way to explore some of the innumerable islets and lagoons found across the 1,553 km2 of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Delicious “Pho” Noodle Soup
Welcome at any time of day, Vietnam's famous pho soup (pronounced 'fuh') is a broth made with rice, herbs and either beef or chicken. A delicious and satisfying pick-me-up to enjoy at a pavement eatery – and the perfect excuse for some people watching, Vietnam-style.
Crashed B52 Bomber, Hanoi
The tail of a downed American B52 bomber strikes out of a Hanoi lake. Between 1950 and 1973 Communist North Vietnam and (ostensibly capitalist) South Vietnam engaged each other in a bloody conflict that left up to four million dead. Many people in the north are especially proud of what they see as a victory over imperialist western powers, including France and the United States. The proxy war to end all proxy wars left many marks and no trip to Vietnam is complete without visiting memorials such as the one pictured (if you can find it in Hanoi's labyrinthine back alleys).
Sapa, Northwest Vietnam
A world away from the thronging streets of Hanoi, Sapa's rice terraces are a sight to behold. In summer months this area offers some much-needed respite from the heat. Enjoy the romance of the overnight train from Hanoi to Lao Cai, then complete the journey to Sapa by bus (24 miles). Alongside regular guest houses, you can choose to stay with a Hmong family in a local village – an experience not to be forgotten quickly.
Huyen Khong Cave with shrines, Marble Mountains, Vietnam
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Huyen Khong Cave is one of numerous grottoes in the Marble Mountains, located to the south of bustling Da Nang city.
Hoi An
Picturesque Hoi An is a must-see on any Vietnam itinerary. Saunter or cycle around the quaint streets of this absorbing coastal town, gorge yourself on tasty treats in the market, or simply watch the world go by at a pavement cafe.
Cu Chi Tunnels, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
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Not one for claustrophobes, the fascinating Cu Chi Tunnels demonstrate the incredible lengths the Viet Cong would go to in search of victory. As well as using the network to hide in during combat, the tunnels would also be used as underground hospitals, supply routes, living quarters and as places to stock food, weapons and ammunition. Some tunnels have been widened to accommodate bigger western frames.
Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam
Phu Quoc Island is one of Vietnam's numerous draws for beach lovers. Take a canoe out and explore the coast, or, if that sounds too strenuous, find a sun bed, grab some fresh fruit from a passing vendor – and soak up the rays.
Hanoi Night Life
Perch yourself on a tiny plastic stool and chew the fat with locals and fellow tourists in Hanoi's Old Town. The authorities instigate a strict midnight shut-down for all establishments, but there are always some 'lock-in' bars which will happily take your dong if you don't want to go to bed!
Tranquil Temples
If the excitement of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh gets too much, why not seek out a tranquil temple for a spot of quiet contemplation. While Vietnam is 'one of the least religious countries in the world', there are many wonderful temples (and Catholic churches) to visit.
Ready to visit Vietnam?
Don't forget to take out comprehensive annual or single trip travel insurance before you go. While Vietnam is generally very safe for foreigners, as with all countries there is always the possibility of having to deal with an unwanted event – from injury and illness to theft and passport loss. Travel insurance from starttravel.co.uk offers reliable, affordable protection.
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