The Asian belt stands out for keeping its traditions and culture alive. Its vibrance, quick-paced life, cramped spaces housing the biggest hearts, and such wholesome food and landscape attract a flock of travellers round the year.
One such country in Southeast Asia is Vietnam.
It has everything you need for a memorable trip—luscious food, delectable coffee, brilliant landscapes, ancient temples and modern museums, happening streets, and cosy spots.
It is a world away, with streets bustling with the sound of traffic. But the air is quite laidback with a pleasant breeze.
The people are so warm and welcoming! They take their food and coffee very seriously. So, you’re in for a treat whether you go to a local street food stall or a posh restaurant!
A trip through the country offers a brilliant panorama of nature, history, and culture. Usually, travellers struggle deciding between Ha Noi and Ho Chi Minh City. Well, we say, wherever you go—these two cities are great to soak in the best of Vietnam in a short span.
Confused between the two? Check out what we think you should do in both these cities and choose what hits closest to home!
Ha Noi
The capital city of Vietnam, Ha Noi is inundated with cafes at pretty much every corner, the aroma of Pho and other street dishes haunting you in every lane. It paints a glorious picture of the city’s history, dips you into its vibrant culture, and takes you down a beautiful landscape.
When in Ha Noi:
Explore the city on foot
Walk around the streets exuding history, with walls narrating the journey of Vietnam. Wonder at the ornate monuments adorning the streets like St. Joseph’s Cathedral, and the Temple of Literature.
Don’t forget to stroll around Old Quarter. The area proudly displays its remnants of French colonialism with a touch of modern influence. It is fantastic for those fond of art, with several galleries. Each of the 36 streets in the area has a unique colonial charm to it.
Watch time (and a train) pass you by on the Train Street
Ever been awestruck at thoe viral videos of a train passing through narrow by-lanes—just inches away from a line of residences? The thrill is very true and worth the hype.
Cafes and restaurants line up the Train Street for tourists to chatter away waiting for a train to pass by. Grab a glass of beer or coffee and bask away.
P.S. You can time it well with the help of locals—ask them about the train timings.
Hoan Kiem Lake
This beautiful location offers tranquility right in the heart of chaos. Watch the sunrise as it brings the city to life, with residents stepping in for their routines, and getting into the groove for the day. At mid-day, it works as the perfect location for a break, a pause between a busy day.
Explore the street food
Vietnamese cuisine boasts of some appetising dishes – which you don’t have to hunt much for. Restaurants catering to all kinds of pockets line the tourist streets. Wherever you go, you’re sure to find something unique to tickle and comfort your taste buds.
Don’t forget their coffee – one of the largest producers of coffee in the world, Vietnam loves iced coffee and hosts the tourists with a unique favourite – egg coffee!
P.S. Don’t worry if you’re vegetarian or vegan. Though you won’t find as many options, you have good, palatable food to try too.
Take a trip to Ha Long
Ha Long is a bay, declared a UNESCO site for its limestone caves. Tourists flock in round the year, but it is a relic worth spending your entire day on. Plunge right into the heart of nature and its beauty on a boat ride inside the caves. While away fishing and relish the most of this tropical beauty.
Ho Chi Minh City
Informally and sentimentally known as Saigon (its former name), Ho Chi Minh City is often ignored because of its urban and cosmopolitan mania.
But we see beauty in this chaos. If you are a lover of everything urban, this is your place. If you enjoy nightlife, urbane landscapes, and delectable oriental cuisine, HCMC is the answer.
The streets echo the revving engines of motorcycles, yet extend to warm, hospitable doors. As soon as you start exploring, you’ll notice hints of Parisian architecture merged with Vietnamese and modern designs.
Amidst multiple activities and adventures for travellers, don’t miss out on these experiences if you’re visiting Vietnam for the first time.
Explore District 1 (Dong Koi)
An oasis of history in the modern city, it is full of architectural relics. The gems of the area are –
● Notre Dame Cathedral of Vietnam, which was constructed with materials imported from Paris back in 1880.
● Opera House to enjoy an artistic evening with brilliant performances.
● The Old Post Office to experience a bit of Europe on Asian land, and even send a postcard in the times of Instagram stories!
Sail around the Mekong Delta
Just hours away from the city is a river that fills itself with the melted snow of the Himalayas. Adorned with palm trees, Mekong Delta is a wonderful choice if you want a day away from urban chaos and bask away in tropical abundance.
You can also choose to stay overnight and witness the famous floating market that runs (or sails) only in the morning.
Shop at Ben Thanh market
Put your bargaining skills to good use in one of the largest in the city. From footwear, and cutlery, to flowers, everything can be a steal here.
P.S. If bargaining is not your thing, indulge yourself and splurge at the upscale street in Dong Khoi for chic brands.
Explore museums and experience the nightlife
Ho Chi Minh City is a treasure for art and history connoisseurs. Choose among these galleries and museums and spend the day with the best of the Vietnamese past.
At sunset, head to one of the many rooftop restaurants by the river bank and enjoy a sundowner, and let your hair down as the night takes over.
Spend the day in Binh Quoi Village or China town
Bin Quoi is a tourist village nestled by the Saigon River with a bright splash of greenery everywhere. Fish your time away, tune your photography skills with picturesque landscapes wherever your sight falls and live like the villagers… forgetting the cares of life!
Conclusion:
Whether you choose Ha Noi or Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam and its people are sure to keep a part of your heart with them.
For the best experience, visit the country in the months of March and April.
Contact us for an unforgettable trip to Vietnam with the best of comfort.
