Hoi An
A picturesque and friendly port town with an old quarter dating back to the 15th century which seeps with charm, history and…
Vietnam is a country of delicious food, magnificent hotels and unquestionably friendly people.
A holiday to Vietnam is all about variety – combining culture, friendly people and beautiful landscapes.
Vietnam also offers fabulous hotels which reflect the culture and architecture of each region and some superb beach resorts to unwind at the end of your trip. The food, even in the simplest of restaurants, is divine.
There are five major regions in Vietnam. The northern highlands, which form a ring around the second region, the Red River Delta, the Truongson Mountain range, the central coastal strip and finally the Mekong Delta. With over 1,800 miles of coastline, you will find very different weather patterns from north to south at different times of the year.
The further north you travel, the more authentic the feel, with thousands of bicycles, women wearing the traditional ao dai and delicious street food for which the area is famous. It is also in the north that the French influence is most noticeable, particularly in the architecture of old Hanoi.
A selection of activities and experiences you could consider including in your holiday to Vietnam.
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British citizens do not require a visa for a stay of up to 15 days in Vietnam. The exemption period is from July 1st 2015 to June 30th 2017 and also applies toGerman, French, Spanish and Italian citizens. If visitors from these five nations wish to travel in Vietnam for more than 15 days, they will still need to apply for a visa, as no extensions to visa waivers will be granted.Please note that after visiting Vietnam with a visa waiver, and after exiting the country, visitors will need to wait at least 30 days before re-entering Vietnam again,visa free.
Crossing for the first time is pretty breathtaking, ideally take your guide’s lead until you get the hang of it. Basically follow the crowd as zebra crossings and pedestrian lights don’t really exist. It will feel as though you’re walking into oncoming traffic but the numerous cars, motorbikes and bicycles will avoid you.
Vietnam is relatively safe, with only incidents of theft being the worst menace to travellers. We advise keeping an eye on your belongings when out and about in busy crowds, and leaving any valuables behind.
The street food in Vietnam is some of the best in the world and a trip to this country should include trying some of the local cuisine. Eating at stalls which are busy and popular with the locals is our best tip, along with making sure food is fresh and has not been sitting around all day in the heat.
During your visit, try a bowl of the popular ‘Pho’ pronounced fur which is eaten at all times of the day, every day. Made up of rice noodles in a broth flavoured with plenty of fresh herbs and meat, each Pho you try will be slightly different depending on its city of origin.
Yes. While there are many places to have a suit made the best tailors are still found in Hoi An. It is worthwhile taking something to be copied also – a quick and easy way of recreating your favourite item.
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Vietnam is seven hours ahead of GMT. Due to its position close to the equator, it does not observe daylight saving time.
From London to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh, direct flights take approximately 12 hours.
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