Ultimate Guide to Vietnam

Vietnam, a Southeast Asian gem, offers a captivating blend of ancient culture and stunning natural beauty. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a history buff, or simply looking to relax on pristine beaches, Vietnam has something for everyone. This ultimate guide will provide you with everything you need to know about visiting this enchanting country, from top hotels to must-see attractions and activities.  

There are a few international airports in Vietnam, which you can fly in to from any London airport. Vietnam Airlines flies direct to Noi Bai International in Hanoi - this is a great option if you are starting your tour by exploring Hanoi, Halong Bay and Sapa. Other airports in Vietnam are Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City - the busiest hotel in Vietnam, perfect for visiting Phu Quoc and the Mekong Delta. And there's Dan Nang Aiport which is the most convenient if you're travelling to Hoi An and Hue. 

 

You can choose a connecting flight with Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines with short stops in Dubai, Qatar or Singapore. 

 

Flight time is around 13 hours not including any stops. 

 

I highly recommend flying Business Class due to the length of flights, comfortability and great service. 

Possibly the most famous destination in Vietnam, Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone islands. We can arrange luxury cruises for you to explore this stunning natural wonder in comfort. 

 

One of the best ways to experience Halong Bay is by staying overnight on a junk boat. Our favourite here at Tailored Journeys is the Violet Heritage Line. See a sample itinerary here. 

This ancient town is known for its well-preserved architecture, vibrant lantern-lit streets and rich cultural heritage. Make sure not to miss the Japanese Bridge and the bustling night market. Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its fresh flavours and unique dishes. Take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional dishes like Pho and Banh Mi. 

 

We recommend staying at the Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai for the ultimate luxury experience. 

Hue is the former imperial capital and offers a glimpse into a Vietnam's royal past. Here you can explore the Imperial City, ancient tombs and pagodas. Not far from Hue is the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, home to some of the world’s largest caves, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers thrilling trekking and caving adventures. Don’t miss the stunning Son Doong Cave! 

 

One of our preferred hotels in Hue is Azerai La Residence, a stunning hotel that will take you back in time in style. 

This is Vietnam's largest city, also known as Saigon. It is a bustling metropolis with a fascinating mix of old and new and here you can visit the War Remnants Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral and Ben Thanh Market. Discover the extensive network of underground tunnels used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. We can arrange private guided tours for a fascinating glimpse into this historic site.  

 

From Ho Chi Minh City you can also embark on a Mekong Delta cruise to see the floating markets and lush scenery. See the Mekong Navigator here - an elegant boutique river ship! 

 

Located in the heart of the city is the Park Hyatt Saigon, a great choice to explore everything right on your doorstep. 

This is one for the beach lovers! Phu Quoc is a paradise with its white-sand beaches, clear waters and luxury resorts. It's an ideal spot for snorkelling, diving and utter relaxation. 

 

A fantastic place to stay in Phu Quoc is the Salinda Resort - a gorgeous hotel right on the beachfront. The perfect way to end your holiday in Vietnam. 

Nestled up in the mountains, Sapa is renowned for its beautiful terraced rice fields and vibrant local culture. Trek through the hills, stopping of at traditional villages. See our sample itinerary here for Sapa. 

 

Aliana Boutique Sapa Hotel & Spa is the perfect choice, situated on the edge of a mountain offering the most amazing views. 

- The best time to visit Vietnam varies by region. The North is best from October to April, the central coast from February to May and the South from December to April. 

- You will need a visa to enter Vietnam. E-visas are available and can be applied for online. 

- The official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND) Creditc cards are widely accepted in major cities but it's always good to have cash for smaller towns and markets. 

- Vietnamese is the official language, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic phrases can be helpful and appreciated by locals. 

 

Vietnam is a diverse and captivating destination that offers something for every type of traveller. From its rich history and vibrant culture to its stunning natural beauty and luxurious accommodations, Vietnam is sure to leave a lasting impression. Let this ultimate guide be your roadmap to an unforgettable Vietnamese adventure. 

 

Start planning your dream trip to Vietnam today with Tailored Journeys, and experience the magic of this enchanting country first-hand. 

 

Contact us on 01442617777 or holidays@tailoredjourneys.co.uk to speak to one of our Vietnam specialists for more information!