First trip to Vietnam! Sightseeing Spots and Tourist Information Summary
For those of you about to embark on your first trip to Vietnam, this article is written just for you. From Hanoi in the north to Da Nang in the center and Ho Chi Minh City in the south, we will introduce you to the sights, specialties, and popular souvenirs that will make you enjoy Vietnam to the fullest. Let’s create unforgettable memories against the backdrop of Vietnam’s culture and beautiful landscapes.
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1. Northern part of Vietnam (Hanoi and other cities)
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a fascinating city with its rich history and culture. Hanoi’s Old Quarter, with its narrow streets stretching in all directions, is lined with old buildings and temples. Here visitors can enjoy traditional handicrafts and delicious street food. Hoan Kiem Lake is also located in the center of Hanoi, with many historical buildings and museums in the area.
A short distance from Hanoi, visitors can experience the natural wonders of Halong Bay and Ninh Binh. In Ha Long Bay, a cruise through the lush green islands and limestone caves is popular. Ninh Binh, also known as “Halong Bay on land,” offers breathtaking views of the karst landscape from the water.
In addition, on the outskirts of Hanoi, there are traditional Vietnamese villages such as Dong Lam Village. Here you can catch a glimpse of the old way of life and relax in the peaceful countryside.
2. Central (Da Nang, Hoi An, etc.)
Da Nang, a typical city in the central region, combines beautiful beaches with modern urban landscapes. The city has many tourist attractions, including the Long Bridge, Marble Mountain, and the Cham Sculpture Museum. The Long Bridge is especially beautiful when illuminated at night, and the Dragon Blowing Flames show is popular on weekends.
Hoi An is famous for its historic townscape, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Old merchant houses, temples, and streets lined with beautiful lanterns are the perfect place to experience the traditional charm of Vietnam. My Son Sanctuary is also a historical site with relics of the ancient Champa Kingdom, testifying to the richness of the cultural heritage of Central Vietnam.
3. Southern region (Ho Chi Minh City and others)
Ho Chi Minh City, the center of the southern region, is the largest city in Vietnam. With its mix of bustling markets, skyscrapers, and historic buildings, the city is at the crossroads of modernity and tradition in Vietnam. Shopping and dining can be enjoyed along Dong Khoi Street and at Ben Thanh Market.
Cruises along the Mekong Delta are especially popular as day trips from Ho Chi Minh City. In the Mekong Delta, you can visit riverside markets and traditional villages to experience life in the Vietnamese countryside. In addition, many historically significant sites, such as the Cu Chi Tunnels and Vinh Long, offer visitors the opportunity to visit relics from the Vietnam War era.
4. Vietnamese Gourmet Specialties
Vietnamese gourmet cuisine is known for its diversity and unique flavors. Pho, a typical Vietnamese dish, is characterized by its aromatic broth and thin rice noodles, and can be enjoyed in different styles in different regions, such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Hanoi’s pho has a simple, clear flavor, while Ho Chi Minh’s is characterized by a variety of ingredients and a thick broth.
Báinh mì is a sandwich made of French bread with a variety of ingredients, ideal for breakfast or a light meal. Also known as goi kung, spring rolls are a healthy dish of fresh seafood, vegetables, and herbs wrapped in rice paper.
Vietnamese cuisine also includes many region-specific dishes such as cau lau, which can be found in Da Nang and Hoi An. Cao lau combines thick slices of rice noodles, pork, crackers, herbs, and a special broth, and is a well-known specialty of Hoi An.
In addition, egg coffee is a unique drink originating in Hanoi that tastes like a dessert, with egg yolks and condensed milk whisked together and added to the coffee. By eating these dishes, visitors can taste the culture and history of each region of Vietnam.
5. Popular souvenirs of Vietnam
There is a wide variety of souvenir options from Vietnam. Vietnamese coffee, with its rich aroma and intense flavor, is a favorite souvenir for coffee lovers. Particularly famous is the Trungen brand of coffee, which has a rich flavor unique to Vietnam.
Embroidered accessories reflect traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship and can be found in various forms, such as handkerchiefs, bags, and cushion covers. These are carefully crafted by hand and have a unique beauty.
Traditional Vietnamese lacquerware called lac is another popular souvenir. Lacquerware is known for its luster and exquisite designs, making it a perfect decorative or utilitarian item. Vietnamese silk products are also of very high quality, and a variety of products, such as scarves and clothing, are available at markets and boutiques.
Finally, Vietnamese spices and herbs have a unique flavor that can only be found in the region and make great souvenirs for food lovers. These spices can be used to recreate the taste of Vietnamese cuisine at home.
6. Conclusion
If this is your first trip to Vietnam, this article will help you to fully appreciate the unique attractions of each region of Vietnam. Historical monuments, beautiful natural landscapes, delectable cuisine, and wonderful souvenirs await you. Discover the culture and history of Vietnam and enjoy an unforgettable trip.
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