Vietnam is a country that is quickly becoming a ‘must see’ tourist destination and it’s not surprising – there is so much to do and see here. It has emerged from French rule and the ‘American War’ and is changing at such a rapid rate that NOW is the time to visit. Having ventured to Vietnam twice in the last twelve months, hosting tours for Twos a Crowd, here are five things that made Vietnam such a memorable destination for me.
Street Eats Tour in Ho Chi Minh City
If you’re one of those people that isn’t too sure about eating from street vendors, then this tour is for you. The street eats tour in Ho Chi Minh was included as part of our Twos a Crowd solos trip to Vietnam. We dined out on Vietnamese pizzas; Pho and Pancakes. Fresh, fresh and fresh. The food was amazing. Highly recommended.
Explore the Markets in Old Town Hoi An
Central Market is your usual South East Asian Market, in that it has everything you might want, even a food court (of sorts). Except maybe fresh fish. If you need that head to the Market on the bank of Thu Bon River, it’s right next door. If, after all your shopping and bargaining, you are a little tired, head to Phan Boi Chau some coffee and people watching. Try the little cafe right opposite the Hoang Dieu bridge for a traditional Vietnamese coffee, or wander a little further down to Mia Coffee and grab a latte or Macchiato.
Take a short river cruise at Sunset in Hoi An
For somewhere between 40,000 and 80,000 dong (depending on your bargaining skills) you can take a 30 minute boat ride on the Thu Bon River. It’s a nice way to take in the lights of the old town and gives struggling locals a little helping hand. I like to get on a boat and chat to the locals – taking photographs every inch of the way!
Take a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake at night
The lake is beautiful enough during the day but at night it really comes to life. Thousands of lights reflecting off the still waters give it an almost magical feel. If it’s not too busy take a moment to enjoy the tranquility of Ngoc Son Temple across the red bridge and learn about the legend of the Turtle and the sword.
Wander the old town of Hanoi
During the day many of the little alleyways are chocked full of shops and stalls selling just about anything. There’s plenty of restaurants and bars that can be enjoyed for lunch, dinner or well into the evening. And of course, it’s a great chance to do some people watching…
*I hosted this tour of Vietnam for Twos a Crowd – a travel company from Melbourne, Australia, dedicated to the needs of solo adult travellers. We travelled with Buffalo tours in Vietnam and our Guide Laki was, as always, AMAZING.
Have you been to Vietnam? If so, what were your top 5 things to see or do? We’d love to hear from you.
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