Top 10 must-do experiences in Vietnam
1. Kayak through emerald waters
Whether you go to Halong, Lan Ha or Sung Sot Bay, it's the perfect activity for exploring the blue waters at a chilled out pace. Perfect for getting in a sneaky arm workout too!
2. Explore the tank graveyard at Ben Het Camp
An ideal activity for a dose of haunting history. While the camp is now farmland, discarded tanks serve as a reminder of the epic tank battle between the US Army & People's Army of Vietnam.
3. Fish with the locals in Halong Bay
You won't get a more authentic Vietnamese experience than this. In Cua Van village, local families will take you on fishing trips, and even teach you how to make and cast traditional fishing nets.
4. Recharge with Hanoi's famous cold brew coffee
Exploring is hot work. Luckily, Hanoi's dotted with cafes with seriously good cold brew. Café Pho Co, Giang Café, or the popular Café Nhi are some of our top pics.
5. Bike through the countryside & herb gardens
Beyond Hoi An city lies a countryside dotted with amazing riverside villages and farmland waiting to be explored. Tours will often see you leaning your bike against a local's home for lunch.
6. Eat a home-cooked meal with a local
Those same lovely families who'll offer to take you on a fishing trip will sometimes even offer for you to stay. This way, you can learn their culinary secrets & fry up the juicy fish you've just caught.
7. Scooter through the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City
Hands down, the best way to feel Ho Chi Minh City's energy. Whizz past temples, and through busy market streets - just be sure to keep your wits about you.
8. Have a drink 25 floors up in Chill Skybar
This is one of those amazing upmarket rooftop bars when you can pretend you're a high roller. Walk in with flash clothes, grab an even flasher cocktail, gaze out at the city lights or party it up.
This upmarket bar is the place to go if you want to drink fashionable cocktails with trendy people. It's also the place for a panoramic view of the vibrant city.
9. Trek through the mesmerizing north
For a breathtaking trek (literally and figuratively) head to Sapa. It's considered Vietnam's best trekking spot, largely due to its magical terraced rice fields.
10. Tip toe past Ho Chi Minh's tomb
For a spiritual experience, explore this revolutionary leader's final resting place. And be sure to catch the extravagant changing of the guard ceremony outside.