Vietnam - The Lands in Between

Halong Bay

 

From Hanoi, a scenic 3-hour drive through the Red River Delta leads you to Hanoi. In the famed Halong Bay, the sublime beauty of magnificent limestone formations rising dramatically from the waters is best experienced on a boat cruise. Be transported back to the nostalgic charm of yesteryear aboard the Emeraude, a luxurious replica of a grand colonial steamer. Other charming vessels in Halong Bay include Indochina Sails and Bhaya Cruise. Make a stop at a local village to enjoy the captivating performance of traditional water puppetry, a distinctive art form of the Red River Delta.

 

Sapa

 

Vietnam’s northern mountain ranges are breathtakingly beautiful with fresh air and cool temperatures. To visit these remote mountains, take advantage of the elegantly restored Victoria Train with its plush seating and wood-paneled Pullman carriages. Home to a diverse group of ethnic minorities such as Tay, Red Dao, Black and Flower H’mong, Sapa boasts of ample hill tribe trekking and home stay opportunities. Victoria Sapa Resort combines mountain traveling with stylish comfort while Topas Eco Lodge provides a peaceful retreat amid the lush valleys. Beyond Sapa, Mount Fansipan (Indochina’s highest peak) is great for trekking and exploration. 

 

Danang

 

Although not a major stop on the tourist trail, Danang’s location between Hoi An and Hue makes a nice stop along the way. The city is one of the most dynamic of Vietnam’s modern cities with rapid industrial and economic growth. Visitors to Danang can enjoy the understated, yet fascinating Cham art and culture at Cham Museum. On the outskirts of town is China Beach, steeped in legend yet wonderfully deserted.

 

Buon Ma Thuot and Central Highlands

 

Buon Ma Thuot is the largest city in Vietnam’s Central Highlands region, an unexplored area with great adventure and trekking potential. The abundance of untouched forests, stunning landscapes, national parks and hill tribe villages are still off the tourist trails.

 

Dalat

 

With its perennial cool weather, pine-clad valleys and weathered but elegant French hilltop villas, Dalat is Vietnam’s premier hill station. Opportunities abound for meetings and incentives in boutique colonial hotels such as the Sofitel Dalat Palace, as well as mountain adventures of absailing, canyoning and even world-class golfing. For an opulent alpine retreat, Ana Mandara Villas Dalat is a good fit.

 

Mui Ne

 

Just a four-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City, Mui Ne is renowned for its long stretches of sandy beaches and perennial sea breezes that greatly complement wind-surfing and kite-surfing. It is also famous for the wind-sculpted red and white sand dunes that make great postcard shots and adventurous sports. Golfers can tee off at the Nick Faldo-designed Ocean Dunes Golf Course. Home to many different resorts, the luxurious Victoria Phan Thiet, the boutique Cham Villas and the newly refurnished Blue Ocean are our top selects for this charming beach town.

 

Phan Thiet

 

Located in Binh Thuan province, Phan Thiet is a small coastal town with a thriving fishing industry. Check out the production of nuoc mam (fish sauce seasoning commonly used in Vietnamese cuisine). Golf lovers will be delighted with a choice of two international class golf courses overlooking the sea – Ocean Dunes and the recently established Sealinks.

 

 

Nha Trang

 

In the heart of Khanh Hoa province, Nha Trang is the undisputed beach capital of Vietnam. Besides long stretches of sand lapped by crystal clear waters, it is dotted with many islands each with its own distinct character. The turquoise waters play host to teeming marine life, and snorkeling and scuba diving are perennial favorites. This beach town also features a vibrant night life. The brand new Novotel Nha Trang is a great accommodation choice; and for travelers seeking a luxurious resort experience, the six-star Six Senses Hideaway Ninh Van Bay does not disappoint.  

 

Quy Nhon

 

Quy Nhon is Vietnam’s other ‘secret’ destination. Occupying the stretch of coastline between Danang and Nha Trang, this port city is close to spectacular secluded bays and unpopulated private islands. The Life Wellness Resort Quy Nhon makes an ideal location for a peaceful retreat.

 

Mekong Delta

 

One of the world’s most fertile areas, the Mekong Delta is home to countless rice fields and tributaries across thousands of square miles of flat land. An overnight cruise in the Mekong Delta is definitely worthwhile, for the experience of awakening in the early morning to find floating markets and villages floating around you is incredible. The small sizes of the Song Xanh Sampans and Cai Be Princess are perfect for glimpses into the local ways of life while relaxing in the comfort of a floating boutique hotel. The restored colonial vessels of Pandaw and Bassac are great for Mekong Delta cruises between Saigon and Phnom Penh.

 

Phu Quoc

 

Off Vietnam’s southern coast in the Gulf of Thailand, the island of Phu Quoc is one of Asia’s up and rising beach destination. The island’s clear waters, isolated beaches, forested interior and charming local character make for an ideal beach escape. Do not forget to sample Phu Quoc’s famous traditional products - fish sauce and black pepper. For a relaxing tropical beach retreat, try La Veranda Resort & Spa.