I’ve been to Vietnam 19 times, don’t miss these must-visit spots
Since his initial trip to Vietnam, this traveller has been captivated, returning whenever possible. Here are his top recommendations for those <a s must-visit attractions.
I travel destination in Asia, and it has profoundly shaped my life. Vietnam is where I first travelled solo, where I got engaged, where my wife became pregnant, where I decided to become a travel journalist, and where I did cherished, one-on-one journeys with my mum, my brother and my late father.
In the 18 years since I first arrived, Vietnam has undergone massive changes. I cannot claim to fully grasp the complexities of its rapid modernisation, but the shift in mood is undeniable. Vietnam is on track to become the second-largest economy in Southeast Asia, surpassing Thailand, and it saw a remarkable 40 per cent jump in tourist numbers last year.
It is a nation on the rise, filled with expanding opportunities. During recent visits, I felt this sense of optimism while exploring its bustling cities, speaking with taxi drivers, hotel staff, restaurant servers, and students eager to improve their English.
Of course, a positive atmosphere alone does not make a location worth luxurious vessels that offer on-board lodging and cruise the bay for two or three days. These boat tours typically include opportunities for sightseeing, visits to floating fishing villages, trips past massive sea caves, and water-based activities like swimming, kayaking, and snorkelling.