Xin chào, my friend! Ever wondered why visit Vietnam? Let me take you on a journey through my beloved homeland. Born and raised here, I’ve grown up surrounded by the rich flavors, stunning landscapes, and heartfelt traditions that make Vietnam truly unforgettable. Vietnam isn’t just a destination – it’s a living experience, ready to welcome you with open arms.
A Street Food Paradise
Vietnamese food is more than just a meal—it’s a way of life. If you truly want to understand our culture, start with the street food!
-
- Pho – The soul-warming beef noodle soup we eat for breakfast
- Banh mi – A crispy baguette loaded with savory fillings
- Bun cha – Grilled pork and vermicelli noodles, Hanoi’s pride
- Cao lau – A specialty from Hoi An, made with water from an ancient well
- Com tam – Fragrant broken rice with grilled pork and egg
- Goi cuon – Fresh spring rolls wrapped with shrimp and herbs
- Hu tieu – A flavorful noodle soup that’s a favorite in the south
And don’t forget Vietnam’s fruits—fresh, exotic, and delicious:
-
- Mango – Juicy, sweet, and perfect for smoothies or eaten fresh
- Mangosteen – Sweet and juicy with a soft white interior
- Rambutan – A spiky fruit similar to lychee
- Dragon fruit – Vibrant pink skin with refreshing white or red flesh
- Durian – Love it or hate it, the “king of fruits” has a rich, custard-like taste
- Jackfruit – Fragrant, sweet, and often used in desserts
In Vietnam, the best meals aren’t found in fancy restaurants – they’re on the bustling streets, where locals gather for a quick bite and lively conversation.
Breathtaking Scenery
From towering mountains to endless coastlines, Vietnam’s landscapes are as diverse as its people. You can find plenty of lists of famous destinations online, so instead, let me introduce you to some hidden gems that locals truly cherish.
-
- Lan Ha Bay – A stunning alternative to Ha Long Bay, with fewer tourists, crystal-clear waters, and hidden beaches perfect for kayaking and swimming.
- Pu Luong Nature Reserve – A peaceful retreat with terraced rice fields, ethnic villages, and lush green valleys perfect for trekking.
- Bach Ma National Park – A nature lover’s dream, with waterfalls, hiking trails, and panoramic views from the mountaintop.
- Con Dao Islands – A remote paradise with crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and quiet beaches, also known for its historical significance as the resting place of national heroine Vo Thi Sau.
- Tay Nguyen – The heart of Vietnam’s coffee culture, surrounded by waterfalls and the rich traditions of local ethnic groups.
- Khe Sanh (Quang Tri) – A mountainous area with misty landscapes, historic battlefields, and breathtaking views, perfect for adventurous travelers.
If you love beaches, skip the crowds in Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, and explore hidden coastal treasures like Quy Nhon – Phu Yen, Ly Son, and Co To Islands, where you’ll find unspoiled beauty and local charm.
A Deeply Rooted Culture & Rich History
Vietnam’s culture and history are woven into daily life, offering a fascinating journey for those who seek to understand it.
-
- Ancient Temples & Pagodas – Explore sites like the Temple of Literature in Hanoi or My Son Sanctuary, a relic of the Champa Kingdom.
- Colonial & War History – Walk through the streets of Hoi An, a UNESCO-listed town with well-preserved architecture, or visit the Cu Chi Tunnels to learn about Vietnam’s resilience during wartime.
- Ethnic Diversity – Meet different ethnic groups in Tay Nguyen or Sapa, each with unique traditions, festivals, and vibrant clothing.
- Traditional Arts & Music – Experience a mesmerizing water puppet show or listen to the melancholic sounds of Ca Tru, an ancient Vietnamese folk music.
- Daily Cultural Practices – Enjoy a cup of Vietnamese egg coffee, witness the bustling morning ritual of locals exercising by Hoan Kiem Lake, or join a family in preparing bánh chưng during Tet.
Vietnam is not just about places – it’s about stories, traditions, and the enduring spirit of its people.
A Culture That Feels Like Home
Our Vietnamese culture is built on warmth, tradition, and hospitality. Strangers quickly become friends, often greeted with a heartfelt smile. In Vietnam, a smile is more than just politeness—it reflects kindness, openness, and a welcoming spirit.
-
- Friendly Greetings – Imagine walking down a quiet village road or a bustling city street and being greeted with warm smiles and friendly nods from strangers, or a child excitedly waving at you from a bicycle. In Vietnam, these moments happen every day
- Local Hospitality – Don’t be surprised if a family you’ve just met invites you into their home for a cup of tea or a steaming bowl of pho. Hospitality here isn’t just a gesture—it’s a way of life.
- Everyday Smiles & Helping Hands – Lost in a maze of alleyways? A local on a motorbike might stop to guide you. Unsure about a dish at a street stall? The vendor will likely encourage you to try it and explain how it’s made.
- Festivals & Traditions – If you visit Vietnam during Tet (Lunar New Year), you might find yourself joining a family in making bánh chưng (sticky rice cakes). During a football victory celebration, you could end up in a sea of red flags, chanting and cheering with newfound friends. There is no distance between visitors and locals—everyone is invited to celebrate, as long as they respect the culture and embrace the joy.
We take pride in our heritage and love sharing it with those who visit. We love everyone who loves our country; and we respect everyone who respects our culture. If you come with an open heart, you’ll leave not just with memories but with newfound friendships and a deep connection to this beautiful land.
Adventure Awaits
If you crave adventure, Vietnam is full of thrilling experiences that locals love just as much as visitors. Let me tell you about some of my favorites!
-
- Ha Giang Loop – This is the ultimate motorbike adventure! Imagine cruising through winding mountain passes, waving to friendly children, and stopping at roadside stalls for a hot bowl of pho with breathtaking views all around.
- Ninh Binh – Locals call it “Ha Long Bay on land,” and it’s easy to see why. Picture yourself paddling through hidden caves, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lush rice fields, just like something out of a dream.
- Son Doong Cave – The world’s largest cave, hidden in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, with its own jungle and river. Due to its fragility and high demand, visits require pre-booking months in advance. Guided expeditions offer a rare chance to camp inside and explore its vast chambers.
- Mui Ne – Ever tried sandboarding? Mui Ne’s rolling red and white dunes are perfect for it. And if you’re into water sports, the strong coastal winds make this place a paradise for kitesurfing.
No matter where you go, adventure is just around the corner in Vietnam. And the best part? You’ll always find a friendly local ready to share a story, give you directions, or even invite you to join in on an adventure of their own!
A Budget-Friendly Paradise
The best part? Vietnam is one of the most affordable travel destinations in the world!
-
- Street food meals for under $2, or even $1 – Enjoy a hearty bowl of pho or a banh mi sandwich for an incredibly low price.
- Scenic train rides – The stunning Hue to Da Nang route costs less than $10, offering breathtaking coastal views.
- Luxury for less – Stay at beachfront resorts for as little as $50 per night or charming homestays starting from just $10 per night, offering great value for every traveler.
- Cheap transportation – Renting a motorbike costs around $5–$10 per day, bus tickets start at $1 for short distances, and train rides between major cities can range from $10 to $30, making travel affordable and easy.
- Affordable activities – Join a street food tour in Hanoi for around $10, cycle through the rice fields of Hoi An for just a few dollars, or take a boat trip along the Mekong Delta for as little as $5—exciting experiences at a fraction of the cost.
Whether you’re a budget backpacker or a luxury traveler, Vietnam offers incredible value for every traveler.
Discover Vietnam Like a Local
Beyond its famous landmarks, the true magic of Vietnam lies in everyday moments:
-
- A stranger’s warm smile as they greet you on a village road
- An old woman carefully selecting fresh herbs at a morning market
- The soulful melody of a dan bau drifting through a Hanoi alleyway
- A friendly local offering homemade rice wine, turning a simple meeting into a cherished memory
So, why visit Vietnam? Because it’s more than a destination—it’s a feeling of warmth, adventure, and belonging.
Come, explore, and let Vietnam steal your heart. You’ll leave not just with photos, but with stories, friendships, and a piece of this country in your soul
