What is Vietnam Famous For?

Why is Vietnam Now on Everybody's Bucket List?

Vietnam is becoming one of the most sought-after holiday destinations for travellers. The following reasons contribute to its popularity:

• Vietnam is often on the bucket list for sea-lovers looking for beaches, sunbathing, water sports, and fresh seafood. Its 3000 km coastline offers some of the most scenic beaches.
• Many travellers like exploring nature, and Vietnam embraces eco tourism to attract such visitors while protecting the environment. Dense green jungles, majestic mountains and peaceful rice terraces are among Vietnam's many natural beauty spots.
• Besides its beaches and natural beauty, Vietnam has some amazing temples and pagodas. Moreover, its rich history and culture offer tourists a variety of experiences.
• Visitors also plan trips to Vietnam to experience remarkable festivals like Hùng King's Day and Oóc Om Bóc.

7 Reasons Why Vietnam is So Famous

Vietnam is a whole package for tourists who either want to enjoy nature or have an urban experience, whether they are a mountain person or a beach person. Check out why Vietnam is getting popular among visitors:

1. UNESCO Heritage Sites:

Vietnam has 18 UNESCO Heritage sites designated for nature, culture, and mixed heritage. The UNESCO legacy is a major draw for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

• The majestic beauty of Ha Long Bay,
• Hoi An's ancient town—each site tells a unique story, and
• The intricate temples of My Son Sanctuary, steeped in Cham civilisation history.

2. Vietnamese Food:

From bustling markets to charming sidewalk cafes, food lovers will find endless delights in every bite. The diverse Vietnamese cuisine includes:

• Popular dishes of pancakes, spring rolls, and Hue beef noodles — bursting with regional flavours,
• Famous Vietnamese coffee, popular for its strong brew and creamy sweetness, and
• Chilli oil, a side dish for spicy food lovers.

3. Culture and Heritage:

Vietnam is popular for its vibrant culture and heritage. Immerse yourself in authentic experiences of:

• Traditional festivals such as Tet and Mid-Autumn, full of colourful parades, lanterns, and communal feasts,
• Village life by staying in rural villages, where time-honoured customs still thrive, and
• Try Ao dài, the traditional attire of Vietnam.

4. Unique Travel Experience:

Vietnam has something in store for every tourist, from mountains to beaches and thrilling activities to relaxed trips.

• Marble Mountains for adventure lovers, its limestone peaks, hidden sacred statues and panoramic vistas,
• Glowing night streets of Ho An with lantern-lit riverside promenades and traditional wooden architecture, and
• Golden sand dunes and a surreal desert-by-the-ocean landscape at Mui Ne.

5. Affordable:

One of Vietnam's biggest appeals is its affordability.

• A one-week trip covering accommodation, food, and transport can cost approximately Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 35,000 per person.
• Budget travellers can stay in comfortable guesthouses without breaking the bank.
• Street food meals often cost less than a few rupees, yet deliver unforgettable flavours.
• Even guided tours and adventure activities remain surprisingly accessible at these prices.

6. Adventure Tourism:

Vietnam is not only for peaceful vacation lovers but also for thrill-seekers.

• Experience ziplining and whitewater rafting in Dalat, surrounded by pine forests and cascading waterfalls.
• Come face-to-face with towering karsts and hidden caves by kayaking along Halong Bay's emerald waters.
• Enjoy high-adrenaline rafting, tranquil cycle paddling, and many other activities.

7. Spelunking (Cave Exploration):

Tourists can enjoy guided spelunking, that is, cave exploration tours.

• Explore Hang En and Paradise Caves for their underground cathedral-like chambers.
• The glittering stalactites and stalagmites provide a surreal contrast to the dark jungles above.

Note: Stalactites are icicle-shaped formations hanging from the cave's ceiling, while stalagmites are mounds on the cave's floor. Both are formations of mineral deposits formed through water precipitation.

Best Time to Visit Vietnam

The best time to visit Vietnam depends on where you want to spend your time. July and August are best for beach lovers along the central coast, while these are also the busiest tourist months. If you are into city-hop, December to March has cooler, drier days in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Tips for Indians Travelling to Vietnam

1. Consider Travel Insurance

   Travel Insurance is not mandatory for travelling to Vietnam, but having it keeps you stress-free so you can focus on enjoying your vacation. Trips can get disrupted by sudden illness, accidents, and last-minute cancellations. Travel insurance for Vietnam covers you against these unpredictable events.

2. Respect Local Etiquette and Public Behaviour

   Public displays of affection are frowned upon in many Vietnamese areas. Maintain a low profile in public and do not challenge or provoke. Queue up politely at public places; don't cut in line, especially near the temple or the food stalls. Always seek permission to take photos, especially of monks and local villagers.

3. Currency

   Vietnam's currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND), and Indian Rupees are not accepted, especially by street vendors and small shops, who prefer cash. So, you must exchange currencies, but do it at trustworthy points such as airports and banks or with licensed money exchangers.

4. Be Aware of Local Customs

   Respecting local customs is essential for any tourist anywhere; the same goes for Vietnam. For instance, Vietnamese people remove their shoes before entering temples and even homes. They prefer modest clothing that covers their knees, chest, and shoulders at religious places. You must respect these practices and speak politely to people, especially the elders and the monks.

5. Stay Hydrated and Protect Yourself from the Sun

   Vietnam has a tropical climate, and it can be hot and humid. So, carry a water bottle and keep drinking water to stay hydrated. Have coconut water and fresh fruit juices from street vendors. Apply sunscreen if you are out for extended walks or for long hours to prevent tanning and sunburn. Adding sunglasses and a broad-brimmed hat for sun protection will be better.

6. Pack a Portable Charger and a Travel Adapter

   Carry a universal travel adapter and a portable charger to charge your phone, camera, and other electronics. You must also keep a power bank with at least 10,000 mAh to ensure multiple charges during the day. Don't forget charging cables and converters for any additional gadgets you may carry.

Your Adventure Awaits in Vietnam

Vietnam has the perfect blend of nature, culture, and modernity. From the misty mountain of Sapa to the golden beaches of Ky Co, each destination has its own flavour to entice the visitor. Tourists can walk down to any of Vietnam's bustling markets and buy souvenirs to take a part of this beautiful country back home. Whether you desire excitement, peace, or culture, Vietnam has everything.