Budget Food Guide to Vietnam

Budget Food Guide to Vietnam
When strolling down the streets of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, you can smell the fish sauce, seafood, rice, baguettes and fresh noodles. The smell is so intense you feel like eating all the time. Although the food is quick to make, it always contains fresh aromas, herbs and spices. If you ever decide to visit Vietnam, your culinary journey across the “Land of Independence, Freedom and Happiness” will be unpredictable and unforgettable at the same time. North Vietnam travel packages

A lunch in Hanoi - fried liver, a few bugs, egg, tofu, veggies and rice.
My lunch in Hanoi – fried liver, a few bugs, egg, tofu, veggies and rice.
Main features of Vietnamese cuisine:

Freshness is crucial.
Fish sauce is the main ingredient.
It’s either very sweet or super salty, extremely cold or hot.
The food in Northern parts of the country is mainly influenced by Chinese cuisine thus you can get many deep fried noodles and rice dishes.
The food in Southern parts is much sweeter and cooler.
Baguettes have been introduced to Vietnamese by French during the colonial times.
Rice and noodles are the main part of most meals, served for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
A traditional Vietnamese coffee contains a lot of extremely sweet condensed milk.
Most of fruits are used as the base for various salads instead of lettuce.
Vietnamese cuisine vs. your budget
Vietnamese foodcan be as expensive or as cheap as you want it to be. Dining out in local restaurants is affordable for everyone, no matter if you are a budget traveller or a typical holiday maker. For those whose budget is very low, I would recommend to eat small portions of street food more frequently and avoid junk food restaurants serving pizzas or burgers (Western food). The prices of food vary from 20,000 dong ($1) per bowl of Pho (Vietnamese soup) to 35000 dong ($1.65) for a plate of rice, any kind of meat and some salad. As for the drinks, you should not pay more than 10.000 dong ($0.50) for Vietnamese iced coffee with milk, commonly known as ca phe sua da. Huong Hai Sealife crusie

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Most of Vietnamese coffees are served with a tone of ice.
What’s on the Menu:
Pho (Vietnamese soup)
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A bowl of Pho.
Price: 20.000 dong – 40.000 ($1 – $1.90)

Ingredients: Any kind of thin sliced meat of your choice (chicken, beef, duck), flat rice noodles, fish sauce, fresh veggies and herbs such as lettuce, chili peppers, mint, basil or bean.

Budget Food Guide to Vietnam

Where to find it: Pho can be found anywhere in Vietnam – from street vendors to local restaurants, at any time of the day. The best city to experience the real taste and smell of Pho is definitely Hanoi.

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A pho with sliced grilled sausages.
The Pho is a great breakfast or lunch option. It’s very filling and will definitely warm you up!

Cha Gio (Vietnamese spring rolls)
Price: 5.000 dong ($0.24) each.

Ingredients: Pork or shrimps, shredded carrots and mung bean noodles.

Where to find it: There are plenty of local food vendors where locals prepare spring rolls. They are often situated at the street corners.

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Vietnamese spring rolls.
Spring rolls are deep fried and pretty salty. Their “plus” is a crunchy taste and golden brown exterior which will melt in your mouth. They taste best when dipped in nuoc cham (Vietnamese sauce).

Fried sliced potatoes with eggs
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Great breakfast option while in Vietnam (if you dare to have such breakfast).
Price: 5.000 dong ($0.24) – 30.000 dong ($1.43).

Ingredients: Fried egg, deep fried sliced potatoes, sweet chili sauce.

Where to find it: Local food vendors.

One of the greatest advantages of Vietnamese street food is its simplicity, quick preparation and easy access. Every time you are in rush and you want to grab something on the run the food is there no matter where you are and what time it is. One of the quickest and most filling meal is fried egg served with veggies and rice topped with chili and fish sauce. Real yum!

Bugs
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My lunch in Hanoi – crispy bugs.
Price: 8.000 dong ($0.28) per one scoop of bugs.

Where to find it: Local buffet restaurants.

Vietnamese are extremely adventurous eaters. Therefore, Vietnam is a great place to try some food you woudn’t in your home country – bugs, scorpions, frogs or fetal duck eggs. They might not all look very appealing, but they taste equally good. Local bugs are a real treat for Vietnamese so don’t be shy and try them!

Banh Mi (Vietnamese baguette)
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A typical pork baguette in Hanoi.
Price: 20.000 dong ($1) – 30.000 dong ($1.50).

Ingredients: Classic banh mi is filled with sliced pork, cheese and vegetables (onion, lettuce, cucumber, tomato). Vegetarian banh mi is often served with tofu instead of meat and plenty of veggies of your choice. You can also find Vietnamese baguettes with eggs, fries and soy sauce.

Where to find it: They are usually made at Buddhist temples and local food vendors.

Ca phe sua da (Vietnamese iced coffee with milk)
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Vietnamese coffee.
Price: 10.000 dong ($0.50) .

Ingredients: coffee, hot water, condensed milk (extremely sweet) and a tone of ice.

Where to find it: Local coffee shops and bars, street vendors.

Vietnamese coffee tastes so different from any European coffee you tried. It’s very sweet as it contains a lot of condensed milk. As the weather is extremely hot in Vietnam, the coffee is mainly served cold. It will give a boost for the day! If you don’t like coffee, you can swap it for a tea or a fruit drink.

As you can see, there is a huge variety of local treats in Vietnam, from spicy spring rolls to broths. Don’t be afraid of trying new things and experiencing new flavours. Keep mixing food with local drinks and enjoy their freshness.

Top 3 foods in Ha Giang

Shan Tuyet Tea in Ha Giang
Ha Giang is one of the provinces has the oldest Shan tea area in the country. From the early 20th century, the French investigates tea in Ha Giang and take attention to the ancient highland tea. It is Shan tea with big leaves, many snow-white hair covered buds and have good quality. So that people called Shan tuyet. SONG XANH CRUISE

In the natural forests of Ha Giang, Shan Tuyet tea grown mixed with other forest trees. In Ha Giang, Shan Tuyet tea located throughout most of the districts in which the ancient tea areas have 300-1000meters height. So far, some areas of province has highly specific for the an ecological tea such as: Lung Phin, Phin Ho, Tham Ve, Bo Duot,… that represents the oldest tea area of Vietnam. This is the local that produces the famous Shan Tuyet tea. The reputation of Shan Tuyet tea conquered not only the consumers but also the connoisseurs in enjoying tea. North Vietnam travel Packages

The Shan Tuyet tea in Ha Giang can be divided into two main types, there are: small Shan tea leaves, tea in Lung Phin with typical characteristics as raspberry or candle shape. Raspberry shape tea has a small leaf tea is less than candle shape tea. In addition to the perennial tea, Ha Giang still grows tea in the lowland. Paradise Cruise

Ha Giang Dried Buffalo

Dried buffalo is special food in the meals of Black Thai. This meat is usually made from muscle of buffaloes and cows freely on the northwest mountains. When making it, people cut meat into pieces with the grain then smoked by charcoal from the mountains. With the dried buffalo, the flavor of smoke is almost intact. The processing techniques are traditional secret but products are quite homogeneous. People use some spices such as pepper, ginger, especially “mac khen”- a type of forest pepper of Northwest upland ethnic minorities.

Ha Giang Dried Buffalo

You can contemplate the spices in each meat. Dried meat still retains the flavor characteristics, especially, the sweetness of the meat. When people often shred with the grain, it can eat immediately or use with corn wine. This dish is made completely natural, so it can reserve about 1 month.

 Today, cultural exchange scale between ethnic people becomes more and more develop, dried buffalo not only is the dish of the Thai but also follows the guests to nationwide. Therefore, the method to enjoy this dish is different and depends on each place.

If the Thai often enjoys their special dish instead of eating foods, especially on the rain, floods or lack of food… but now, this dish can be served with hot pot or baking dish. However, the unique flavor of buffalo meat only intact when taken directly from the kitchen, still smell of smoke, spicy peppers, flavor of “khac men”.

HA GIANG STONE BRYOPHYTE

For many years, bryophyte is regarded as the aquatic without effects. However, ethnic people in Xuan Giang commune, Ha Giang province, bryophyte is considered as special food. The food is made from it called “que”. This is not only delicious dish but also good for health.

According to local people, when looking bryophyte, they usually choose the fresh and great bryophyte. Then, it is cleaned and then is processed into many dishes. The bryophyte exists in 7 days, when it grows up to 3-4 days people should pick up right away.

Good bryophyte is less and it can eat depend on season, so it is precious dish. Bryophyte can be processed into many dishes such as fried bryophyte, dried bryophyte but the most unique dish is bryophyte mixed with spices and then grilled.

When grill, people cannot turn it several times but grill one side then grill the other. Since bryophyte dish depends on season people often make dried bryophyte. Special customers are eaten the special dish: dried bryophyte. Grilled bryophyte not only is favorite food of ethnic people but also can cure many diseases, help blood circulation, detoxification, heat stability, blood stability and strengthening resistance.

Nha Trang Tourist Attractions

In Nha Trang (Vietnam) have many tourist attractions which can be divided into 3 major groups: Beach and Sun, cultural attractions and entertainment venues.

There are many things to do and many points to visit in Nha Trang. We have market Dam, the Pagoda Po Nagar, Long Son Temple, Tower Tram Huong, theme park Vinpearl, the Catedral in mountains, the Diamond Bay, Hon Tam Island and many more attractions in Nha Trang. Centre Vietnam tours

Vinpearl Theme

Vinpearl is a theme park or water park located in the Nha Trang Tre Island (Vietnam). The Vinpearl complex, which occupies the entire island consists of hotels 5 stars, shops, beaches, parks. Ultimately a luxury priced Vietnamese resort. Mekong delta tours in Vietnam

To arrive at Vinpearl from Nha Trang, best thing is to use the cableway (see Cable Car Nha Trang). For a little more than $10, can enjoy a full day in Vinpearl all-inclusive. The Oceanography of Vinpearl, called Vinpearl underwater world is worth.

Nha Trang Tourist Attractions

Pagoda Ponagar

high in the hills of Nha Trang have Ponagar Pagoda, a temple of the reign of the Cham. Pagoda Ponagar rises 50 metres above the sea level and is situated about 2 miles north of Nha Trang, Vinh Phuoc district.

Pagoda Ponagar (Po Nagar) was built in the year 817, made entirely in brick. Today the inhabitants of Nha Trang flock to pray to this temple. The Ponagar pagoda has 3 levels, where we will go climbing up stairs from stones. Most notable is the Tower of the main temple. Halong bay cruise in Vietnam

Ponagar Temple in Nha Trang
Because Ponagar pagoda is 50 meters high above the sea, from the Ponagar watched from just behind the huge letters of the temple, we have a privileged view of the beach and the city of Nha Trang.

Long Son Pagoda

the Pagoda are Long, also known as Temple of the white Buddha, is a Buddhist temple built more than 1000 years ago and without a doubt, the most famous pagoda in the province Khanh Hoa.

The grounds of the Pagoda are Long is relatively small, 72 meters long and 45 meters wide. The complex has a large main auditorium.

The most curious of the Pagoda are Long is the statue of seated Buddha, Lotus flower-shaped. The statue is located at the top of the Hill, doing so must leave the premises of the Pagoda are Long and climbing 193 steps. The base of the statue has 7 meters and the height of the statue is 21 meters. The statue of Buddha of the Pagoda are Long was built in 1963 by Buddhist monks in the area.

Tram Huong Tower

Tower Tram Huong (Mờ Hương) is an icon of the city of Nha Trang, its literal translation is Agar wood, a type of aromatic wood used in joinery. It is a small tower that stands on a street of Nha Trang city. In the morning, in the vicinity of the Tower Tram Huong, Nha Trang people practiced sport. But the best thing is to see the night Tram Huong Tower, since it is illuminated.


Tram Huong Tower mimics the shape of the Lotus Flower.

Tram Huong Tower is on the seafront in Nha Trang, right next to the sea, Tran Phu street corner Tranh Le Ton. This tower is the best landmark in the city of Nha Trang, but is not open to the public.

Nha Trang Cathedral

The city of Nha Trang is known for its beaches, but this tourist coastal city of Vietnam has a few very nice interest points, such as for example the Cathedral of Nha Trang, located on a small hill 1 kilometer from the beach.
Read more about Nha Trang Cathedral.

9 should-do things when visiting Cat Ba Island

1. Swimming

From central town of Cat Ba, you can walk or take a motorcycle taxi or electric car to Cat Co 1 beach, Cat Ca 2 beach, Cat Co 3 beach – the most fresh and beautiful beaches in Cat Ba. These beaches are linked with a small track on the mountain side. Among the three, Cat Co 1 is the largest but also the most crowned. If you love peaceful and quite atmosphere, you should choose Cat Co 2 and 3. Remember never swim after 18h30 because around this time, the tide rises very quickly. Paradise Cruise Halong bay
2. Diving to see coral reefs

Under the water around the island, there are a lot of red coral reefs with varied rare sea creatures such as abalone, pearl, lobster and colorful flocks of fish. If you have chance to dive into the sea, you will be amazed by the fantastic and marvelous beauty of undersea world. Joining a diving tour at Diving Center in Monkey Island Resort is a unforgettable experience in you trip. Vietnam tours Packages
3. Sightseeing from Cannon Fort

Not far from the central of Cat Ba town is Cannon Fort – an era fort that was used in naval defense of Hai Phong during the Vietnam War. It is a interesting historical sight, which bring to you more understanding about Vietnam War and Vietnamese history. The fort is located on the top of mountain, so you can have an impressed view to see everything from high distance. The view can hold every detail of Cat Ba Island, from mainland to the sea. Cannon Fort is also a perfect place to see sunset. SONG XANH CRUISE
4. Strolling along the sea at night

You can hire a bike or motorbike or take an electric car to go along the seaside, get some fresh air and feel the ease in your soul. However, visitors prefer walking by their foot along the track with ocean on a side and mountain another side. If you visit with your partner, it would be very romantic and lovely.
5. Visiting to Ha Lan Bay

9 should-do things when visiting Cat Ba Island

The landscape of this bay is as similar as Ha Long Bay, but many travelers choose it over Ha Long Bay because of its pristine condition. In Ha Lan bay, you can swim on small sandy beaches, sit on the boat for sightseeing and visiting caves, go kayaking by yourselves, visiting local floating village where you can fishing and exploring pearl-making.
6. Visiting Monkey Island

Monkey Island is one of the most beautiful islands near Cat Ba town. It has friendly funny monkeys living here. It also has Cat Dua beach, which is considered as the best beach in Cat Ba with very clean blue water and strengthened white sand. You nowadays can stay in Monkey Island Resort, located in Cat Dua 2 beach, with over 30 equipped bungalows and a lot of seafood restaurants.
7. Rock climbing

This is an activity for venture lovers. They open climbing tours which instruct you the best place to climb or provide facilities. The best place for climbing is Butterfly Valley and Ben Beo Wall as well as Offenheimer’s Creation and Slo Pony at Tiger beach.
8. Discovering Cat Ba National Park

Cat Ba National Park takes the east part of the island, with a pristine abundant biodiversity. There are varied kinds of rare animals and plants such as chamois, cao cat, kingfisher, bile, yellow monkey,…as well as a lot of imposing landscapes such as freshwater ponds, marshes, coastal mangroves, caves and coral reefs. Coming to the Cat Ba national park, you can try experiencing the feeling of walking in the forest, biking and immersing in nature in order to see rare animals. In addition, visitors will also taste natural produce such as: wild honey, pink tea…
9. Visiting caves

The most popular cave in Cat Ba is Da Hoa Cave, which is located in Gia Luan commune, on the north of Cat Ba, next to Ha Long Bay. The cave lies on the height of 50m comparing to the water level. It still remains the original and primeval beauty, with multi-shaped stalactites and a small magical stream running through the cave.
Besides, there are a lot of other caves that attract your interest, including Quan Y cave (Hospital cave), Trung Trang cave, Hoa Cuong cave, Phu Long cave.

Pac Po: Ho Chi Minh’s Cave

Right on Vietnam’s northeastern frontier with China, Pac Bo Cave is an important historical site in an enchanting location. The landscape along the Chinese border, in Vietnam’s Cao Bang Province, is characterized by forested limestone mountains, blue rivers and rice fields. Small villages of mud and straw houses dot the narrow valleys. The scene can’t have changed much since 1941, when Ho Chi Minh walked across the border from China, entering his native Vietnam for the first time in 30 years. Tours North Vietnam

In 1911 Ho had left Vietnam from the Saigon docks on a French ship. Working as an assistant cook, the ship took Ho to five continents, before he finally settled in Paris with a friend. During his 30 years of absence from Vietnam, Ho travelled widely, making many powerful friends (and enemies) in the process. He formed close attachments to communist and socialist parties in Europe, the USSR and China. Although Ho was often many thousands of miles from his homeland, he never lost sight of his goal of the liberation of Vietnam from French colonial rule. He learned from and made alliances with nationalist and independence groups across Europe and Asia. Ho was himself co-founder and founder of several ideological movements and political parties, notably the French Communist Party and the Indochinese Communist Party. In the winter of 1941, Ho finally crossed the Chinese border, near Pac Bo Cave, and set foot on his native soil once again. He lived in Pac Bo Cave for several weeks before moving on to avoid detection. Four years after Ho’s clandestine return to his homeland, Vietnam celebrated its independence from French rule and Japanese occupation, when Ho read the Declaration of Independence to a crowd of thousands in Hanoi, on September 2, 1945. Vietnam Mekong river cruise

Grandiose shrine to Ho Chi MinhPac Bo Cave is an hours’ drive from Cao Bang, the provincial capital, on the Ho Chi Minh Highway. This new road now runs the length of Vietnam; starting, appropriately, at Pac Bo and ending nearly 2,000km to the south, in the Mekong Delta (read more about this road HERE). After a beautiful drive through steep, verdant valleys the road comes to an abrupt end at a big car park. If you visit on a weekend or national holiday, chances are this car park (and the rest of Pac Bo site) will be full of coaches, carrying Vietnamese tour groups, who make the pilgrimage here. However, if you come on a weekday, especially during the middle of the day, the car park will be empty and you may well have this beautiful site all to yourself. Tickets are bought (10,000vnđ [$0.50]) at a kiosk by the car park. On the left, before entering the site, there’s a huge pagoda-esque shrine to Ho Chi Minh. Reached via a long staircase, you can purchase sticks of incense and place them in front of a grandiose gold statue of Ho, seated in a throne, as if he were an imperial monarch; an image he never cultivated during his lifetime. There’s a small museum behind the shrine but, at the time of writing, a much grander one was being built next to the ticket entrance. Alova Gold Cruise Halong bay

Lenin CreekFrom the car park it’s a pretty 10 minute walk – or 5 minute drive – along a paved lane to the beginning of a pathway, which loops around the Pac Bo Cave area. There’s a basic map of the path printed on the back of the entrance ticket. At the start of the pathway there are stalls selling Ho memorabilia, refreshments, and ‘ethnic’ trinkets. The gorgeous pool of turquoise water opposite the stalls is Lenin Creek, and the limestone hill behind it is Karl Marx Peak, both named, in the revolutionary spirit of the time, by Ho during his stay here.

Pac Po: Ho Chi Minh’s Cave

Once you start on the stone path around the area you’ll see information plaques amongst the foliage and by the stream. As this site is aimed at domestic tourists, none of the signs have English translations. This is a pity because, unlike other revolutionary sites where plaques usually regurgitate socialist mantras, at Pac Bo they simply mark spots where Ho would fish, swim, pick fruit, or write poetry during his time here in 1941. Rather bizarrely, Ho himself revisited Pac Bo as a ‘pilgrim’ in 1961. By then, at the age of 71, Ho was regarded as one of Vietnam’s greatest national heroes, and his brief stay at Pac Bo Cave had become the stuff of legend. On his return to the cave Ho made several speeches and gestures at the site, which are now also commemorated with stone tablets along the path.

Pac Bo Cave entranceIt’s a beautiful walk, with the blue waters of Lenin Creek on one side and dense jungle foliage – screaming with cicadas and tropical birdsong – on the other. The path leads away from the stream, up some steps, to Pac Bo Cave. In the summer it’s extremely humid under the canopy of trees, so it comes as a relief when – after entering the small, concealed entrance – the air inside the cave is cool and damp. Shafts of light enter the cave through small holes in the limestone. A couple of soft light-bulbs help to illuminate Ho’s wooden bed, a kettle over a campfire and the strange, Daliesque formations in the limestone, that Ho named Karl Marx. The cave is small and so well-hidden that one wonders how anyone could have found out Ho was sheltering here.

The stone path continues on the loop, passing under creepers and vines growing out over the water in all directions, creating a web of roots and branches. Next to a small sand beach by the creek, a block of limestone has been fashioned, through millions of years of erosion, into the shape of a table. Ho used this as his ‘office’ for writing poetry and translating texts. It’s forbidden to sit at this ‘table’ but the beach by the creek is a lovely place to sit a while and soak up the serenity of Pac Bo. Lenin Creek would be perfect for a refreshing swim but bathing is not allowed; this is a sacred place for most Vietnamese people.

Lenin Creek running through Pac Bo area

The whole area, despite its popularity with domestic tourists – which, unfortunately, is usually a catalyst for kitsch decoration and trash – is exceptionally well-kept, tasteful and understated. There are signs every few metres reminding visitors to throw their rubbish in the ample number of bins provided. This site, unlike the majority of revolutionary monuments in Vietnam, manages to induce a contemplative, respectful mood while not forcing its significance on the visitor or embellishing the site unnecessarily. It’s by far the ‘best’ commemorative attraction I’ve visited in Vietnam, and one of the most engaging historical sites too. It would be better if the information plaques were also in English, but perhaps the new museum will offer some background information in languages other than Vietnamese. Unlike the brash, ostentatious shrine to Ho Chi Minh that greets you by the car park, the rest of Pac Bo Cave area is elegant, sophisticated in its simplicity, and unpretentious; a fitting monument to the man who lived here from February 8 to the end of March, 1941.

Hoi An The Old city

Hoi An is a quant, unique town that you want to linger on while backpacking through South East Asia. It’s lovingly preserved Old Town is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can soak up the surrounds by simply walking or cycling the streets. Along the streets of the historic centre are speakers which play soft instrumental music, that literally feels like you are in a movie. Hoi An is full of vibrance and Vietnamese culture, a must see stop on your backpacking adventure of Vietnam.

Once the sun sets Hoi An is set alive with nightly events. Music and dance performances often take place along the riverfront where people release floating candles as well wishes into the Thu Bon River – a magic site to see. Shopping continues as you cross the bridge over to An Hoi island filled with night time markets.

The best way to get around Hoi An is by stretching your legs and exploring by foot, especially through the old town. Cycling is another great way to explore and get to near by beaches.

Hoi An’s beaches

Top up your tan with a short pedal out of Hoi An to laze over cheap beer and sunsets. Two nearby beaches; An Bang Beach or Cua Dai Beach are located 3-5km out of the city that vary in tourist numbers. Travel Halong bay Vietnam

Hub of Tailor Made Clothing

Hailing as the capital of tailor made clothing in South East Asia, Hoi An is famous for its custom made clothing. Temptations will be running high to get measured up and take home a spanking new outfit from a new suit to dresses, blazers and more. Scattered across the city are countless tailor made clothing shops producing quality made to order items within 24 hours at a reasonable price. Allow yourself time for fittings to come away looking extra sharp. Vietnam Mekong river tours

Hoi An & The Old city

Local Cuisine

Hoi An is a real haven for those people with a sweet tooth and interest in scoring secret recipes of local vietnamese cuisine. Thanks to the French influence of the town, you can find delicious cakes and pastries on every street corner. The lively local markets are a taste of organic living, with crops being grown in the surrounding farming countryside. Tea is serious business in Vietnam in particular Hoi An. It’s not just the flavorsome drink, but it comes with a whole ceremony and practice.

Visit the ruins of My Son Ruins of the Cham dynasty

Hidden in a valley surrounded by mountains one hour bus ride out of Hoi An lies the ruins of My Son of the Cham Dynasty. The impressive Hindu structures of My Son now recognised as a UNESCO world heritage site were badly damaged during the Vietnam War, still standing as a sight to see when in Hoi An.

Getting to Hoi An

Getting to Hoi An from Northern Vietnam is a breeze. Our backpacker dedicated Boomerang Bus Vietnam departs from Hanoi Backpackers Hostel and travels south to Hoi An as the last stop on route. The Boomerang Bus Vietnam covers many insanely stunning locations as stops between Hanoi and Hoi An. Another option is to get on a Top Gear Motorbike Tour that departs from our Hue Backpackers Hostel zipping over the renowned High Van Pass.

Top 7 Souvenirs to Buy in Vietnam

The top 7 souvenirs to buy in Vietnam, whether you are on holidays or on a business trip.

Apart from the joy of discovering a new culture, taking photos and tasting the exotic flavors of Vietnam, shopping might bring you more opportunities to get in touch with local habits.

A shopping tour is usually the last step of a trip and it is always a bit tricky. The second “HCMC 100 exciting things”, a campaign promoting activities in the city, announced some time ago the top 7 souvenirs to gift to friends, family members and loved ones. The results came from a poll voted on by travelers and expats. Travel to Vietnam

Hopefully more of these events will be coming to other major cities, such as Hanoi, Hoi An, Hue and others.

CONICAL HAT

Ao dai

Non la (leaf hat) is a circular cone made of bamboo cataphylls, notable for it’s romantic adornments. The non la is more than an indispensable tool for people in Vietnam: it has become a cultural symbol. The style differs by region, so for example those of the Tay people have a distinct color, while in Thanh Hoa they use only a 20-hem frame. Hue’s is thin and elegant, while Binh Dinh’s is thick. Mekong delta tours

Vietnamese wear the non la all year. The shape protects the wearer from the downpours of the rainy season like an umbrella, and provides shade and protection from the heat during April and May, when temperatures climb to unbearable levels.

Top 7 Souvenirs to Buy in Vietnam

Local Insight: At a workshop, you can get a hat for only VND 3,500 - VND 10,000. Depending on the quality, price at souvenir shops range between VND 30,000 and VND 100,000.

Since the 18th century, the ao dai (long dress) has been Vietnam’s national costume. There are three main styles of ao dai nowadays. Halong bay cruise

“Trendy” ao dai reach to the floor and fit the curves of the body by using darts and a nipped-in waist; the “hippy” ao dai is brightly colored and very popular among young teenagers; and the “mini” ao dai have slits extended above the waist and the panels reach only to the knees.

The usual way to acquire an ao dai would be to pick the fabric first. Usually there are two different colors, one for the long dress itself and a second contrasting color for the trousers worn underneath. After the fabric is chosen, you bring it to a tailor specialized in creating ao dais. Usually it takes around one week until you can pick up the finished product, but please keep in mind that during the preparation for Tet (lunar new year), it can take significantly longer.

Local Insight: An ao dai costs at least VND 700,000. If you can spend the time and have experience finding decent cloth and a good tailor, you might have your stylish ao dai at a reasonable VND 1,500,000.

Silk is woven from the cocoons of the silkworm. Thus, It has always been considered extremely luxurious and only available to the nobility. The days when silk had only been manufactured for Vietnamese royalty is long gone, and the fabric has become widely used throughout the country. Silk and its beautiful products are affordable nowadays, so tourists have a chance to choose their favorites and gift them to friends and family.

Local Insight: The price for regular Vietnamese silk is at least VND 70,000/m and over VND100,000/m for premium kinds. Silk below that price is originating from China and of questionable quality.

The art of hand-embroidered pieces of clothing and framed silk pictures is an old handicraft tradition in Vietnam. You will mostly encounter picturesque natural scenes like flowers, trees, animals and birds, patiently stitched one colorful thread at a time. But also daily life scenes, even portraits can be created with this ancient technique. Tourists are frequently baffled by the vast variety of designs, offered in hand embroidery shops, the vibrant colors and the intriguing depth of the artwork.

In some shops, tourists can explain or sketch their individual idea to the artist, who creates a personalized present for friends and family.

If you visit Da Lat, there is a workshop & gallery for marvelous and artful hand embroidery images upstairs in the central market.

Local Insight: You can buy a small hand embroidered product for around VND 500,000. For bigger pictures, the price can be VND 2,000,000 and above.

Sand painting is the art of pouring colorful sand and powdered pigments on a sticky surface and fixating it later with spray, so it doesn’t come off again. However, there is a second art form called sand painting, which is practiced in Saigon: The artist pours the colorful sand between two glass panes or in a specially designed mug or vase. The layers of sand form an enthralling piece of art, that looks stunning on every shelf and makes an excellent souvenir. Vietnamese sand picture art comprise 4 categories: Landscape, portrait, labor scenes and the traditional art of calligraphy.

Local Insight: The price for artful sand pictures ranges from VND 300,000 to VND 700,000.

GUOC MOC

wooden clogs

Wooden clogs (guoc moc) were a sort of traditional footwear for men and women alike in the past. After the feudal period, they mostly remained in a trio of Non la, Ao dai and Guoc moc to increase the gracefulness of Vietnamese ladies when attending important festivals or any special events in town. Guoc moc are rarely used nowadays, but tourists can catch a glimpse of them at traditional activities like the Cai Luong and Ca Tru performance.

Local Insight: Being considered as quite old fashioned footwear, the real Vietnamese wooden clogs are hard to find. If you can find some around VND 150,000 then go for it.

MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS

A handmade musical instrument can also make a nice keepsake. Bamboo flutes and mini t'rungs are very popular among visitors. Since the flute is just a small bamboo pipe and the t’rung can be easily disassembled for transport, they are convenient to carry home and don’t use up too much space in your already stuffed luggage.

The sweet tone of these instruments will thrill your ears and remind you of the most memorable moments from your trip to Vietnam.

If you are in Saigon, there is a nice old man, playing and selling simple flutes in Le Loi street at the sidewalk. If you are interested in hearing more traditional flute play, there is a student club of young flutists, who meet in the evening hours at 23/9 Park near Ben Thanh Market to play and practice. Nguyễn Thiện Thuật street in D1 is also known as “guitar street”. There are many shops and workshops for instruments, mainly guitars and their relatives - like the ukulele.

Local Insight: Prices for a t’rung range from VND 300,000 to VND 1,000,000. Simple bamboo flutes come at around VND 10,000.

You should expect to bargain for the items you want to take home as souvenirs. One “trick”, that can be applied in Ben Thanh Market is to browse the fixed-price shops outside and negotiate with the inside shops for the items you want to buy. We also have a blog post on bargaining at the market which shows you some tips to bargain and suggest some of the best places for shopping apart of the Top 10 Shopping Places in HCMC.

7 tourist traps to avoid when traveling in Vietnam

When you travel, especially to a country with the culture, lifestyle and mentality that are absolutely different from yours, sometimes it’s quite hard to avoid different kinds of troubles and traps. Some people even say that Vietnam itself is one big trap for a tourist. But we strongly disagree with it and believe that traveling smart can reduce the risks to the minimum. Read the article to learn about the potential traps (which hopefully, will not happen to you) and figure out how to avoid them! South Vietnam tours

Taxi Scams
Probably, most of the travelers which have visited Vietnam, have some stories connected to taxi services. There’s a lot of traps that may happen to tourists: sometimes the drivers don’t take the passengers where they have to; or they will not agree on the price according to the counter; or they will not give your change back; or even make a few circles on the same street just to have a bigger distance on the counter. In a word – the taxi drivers in Vietnam are very creative when it comes to making a fool of tourists! So choose only reliable taxi services, don’t pay till you reach your destination and be confident, like you know the city perfectly! Image Cruise

Overpriced Bus
When you take a bus in big cities in Vietnam or especially, bus from the airport, there is a chance that when the bus driver understands you are a foreigner, he may charge you a double or even triple price for a ride! The regular price for a bus ticket is between 25,000 – 30,000 VND (about $1), but be ready that the driver can ask you to pay up to 100,000 VND. What is the most funny is that the locals will happily support him and try to persuade you that the price is actual, such a solidarity! SONG XANH CRUISE

No Change
If you are in Vietnam, if you are a tourist and if you pay with a large banknote, most probably, you will hear the answer that there’s no small money to give you a change. It can happen in the markets, bars, even restaurants. That’s why it is better always to have some small banknotes to be able to pay without a change or at least to say the waiter (or seller) that you have it, so it may help to avoid the scamming and save your money.

7 tourist traps to avoid when traveling in Vietnam

Street Vendors
Whenever you walk in the more or less touristic areas, especially in big cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, lay streets vendors will approach you and offer to buy different stuff – from fruits to souvenirs. The price for a foreigner may even seem low and acceptable, but comparing to regular prices in Vietnam, it may be 10x higher. Why should you pay more if it always possible to go to the stores and markets which are just a little bit far away from the downtown?

Women With Fruits
If you see on the street of Vietnam a woman carrying a yoke, usually with fruits, be careful. It is common for villages and small towns, but for sure not for city centers of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh. It actually looks beautiful and you will probably want to make a photo of her. So be ready, after that a woman may ask you to pay for a photo, usually it is approximately $4 (50,000 VND). This is one of the popular tourist traps in the country.

Silk Markets And Tailor Shops
Vietnam is famous for its high-quality silk and fine tailors. However, in the towns like Hoi An, which is considered to be one of the best in the industry, there’s such a big number of silk markets and tailor shops, that the chances to become a victim of a cheater. If you are planning to get a new piece of cloth in Vietnam, better make a research and find some trustful and reliable places in advance.

Travel Agents
At the train or bus stations, especially in big cities, you may meet so-called “travel agents”, people who will kindly offer you their help in booking tickets and arranging your trip. If you meet one of them, better go away. Their fees may be not that high, but after all, you may, for example, end up in the 2nd class train, instead of the 1st one, for which you’ve actually paid.

Tam Coc - Bich Dong

Tam Coc-Bich Dong or Tam Cốc-Bích Động is one of the famous destinations of Vietnam. Tam Coc means 'three caves' and it is literally a landscape of three natural caves while Bich Dong is a fifteenth century pagoda.
Boat ride across the golden paddy fields are something to cherish about
Understand the place

Surrounded by Ngu Nhac Son Mountains, Tam Coc and Bich Dong welcome its tourists with serene landscape. Considered to be the "second nicest grotto" after Huong Tich, it's definitely worth a visit.

How to get there

To visit Tam Coc-Bich Dong, you have to reach Ninh Binh first

By air: Fly to Hanoi or Nol Bai airports. Take a taxi from the airports to reach Ninh Binh. Costs range from $68-$85.

By car: Hired cars available from Hanoi and also from Halong Bay tours. Costs range from $60-$7.

By bus: Regular buses from Gial Bat (Hanoi) are available for 70,000 Dong.

From Ninh Binh, you have to reach Van Lam Wharf. From there boats are available up to Tam coc and then to Bich Dong grotto. North Vietnam tours

Tam Coc - Bich Dong

Cost
Organized tour: $18/head to Tam Coc from Ninh Binh.

What to see?
Hang Mua
Phat Diem cathedral

Activities
Hire a motorbike which is a common transport at Ninh Binh and take a ride across the nearby areas.
Boat ride on the river Tam Coc (60,000 VND/head) and Trang An or Van Long.
Visit the temple of Thai Bhi apart from the obvious Bich Dong Pagoda. Mekong delta tours

Danger

Just hang a sweet smile in your face with a polite but firm “No. Thanks” to every seller approaches you.

Off the beaten path tips

Miss the boat and take a bike. You will save yourself from the sellers and can experience a different trip altogether.

4 Best Local Foods in Hoian

There are a number of local delicacies specific to Hoi An that travellers must eat when they visit Hoi An, especially 4 Best Local Foods in Hoian. You can get authentic taste for a dollar a plate. You cannot leave Hoi An without trying Cao Lau- Hoi an's signature dish,  chicken rice, white rose and quang noodle. These foods are the 4 Best Local Foods in Hoian. Centre Vietnam tours

1. Cao lau- Hoi An's signature dish

Cao lau is  a delectable dark pork broth with fat yellow noodles, slices of juicy pork,  served with bean sprouts, green vegetables, slices of and crispy croutons. The noodles must be made with the water from one of the closely guarded ancient Cham wells hidden throughout Hoi An.
Why Cao Lau is so special and one of the 4 Best Local Foods in Hoian?

Water as it must come from an ancient Cham wells around Hoi An

Vegetable have to be taken from Tra Que vegetable village

The ashes which use to soak the noodle have to be taken from Cham Island

Where to try Cao Lau in Hoi An?

If you are looking for local taste and local price, you should go to Thanh Cao Lau (24 Thai Phien St). Price: 25,000 VND. Open hour: All day but they will close very soon in the noon and night if the ingredient is over. Best Halong bay cruise

If you prefer the comfort of a restaurant with air con, walk down to Ms Vy’s Morning Glory restaurant on 106 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street in the centre of town.

4 Best Local Foods in Hoian

2. Hoi An Chicken Rice - Com Ga  Hoi An
Hoi An chicken rice -Com ga is delicious fluffy rice cooked in chicken stock with a tiny bit of turmeric for colour, thrown in a wok and served with boiled, coarsely shredded chicken Chicken in this dish is torn into small pieces and then mashed with crushed onions, Vietnamese coriander and the other spices. This mixing step is important and clearly shows the delicacy of the cooker.. The dish is then served up with very spicy chili sauce, pepper to slow the heart various coating mix chicken liver hard, extremely attractive. Before being served to customers, the springy chicken pieces and fragrant rice are decorated with peppermint, papaya, and salted onions. MANGO CRUISE

Where to try a dish of Chicken rice in Hoi An?

In Hoi An center: try Com Ga Huong on the pavement outside 48 Le Loi Street (near Thu Thuy Cloth Shop). Huong’s opens daily at around 14:00 and stops serving once the pot is clean.

Outside center: Com Ga Ba Buoi at 22 Phan Chu Trinh. It is family-run restaurants and have been set up in the 1950s. Prices here vary (for tourists) but expect to pay around 30-40,000 VND depending on their mood.

In tourist’s restaurant, yoi can try Mermaid – 2 Tran Phu and Miss Ly’s Cafe on 22 Nguyen Hue.

Please check video for How to make Hoi An Chicken Rice

3. White Rose  Hoi An
White rose - an appetizer named for its shape when presented properly – White Rose is a type of shrimp dumpling made from translucent white dough bunched up to look like a rose.

Ingredients such as shrimp and pork are placed on top the carefully folded noodles and topped with crispy shallot. The unique dipping sauce is made of shrimp broth, hot chilies, lemon and sugar.

Water must be drowned from the old Ba Le well, which is filtered and purified 15-20 times before being mixed with the rice paste to form airy dough.

Where to try a plate of White rose in Hoi An?

Local Restaurant: Banh Bao Banh Vac: 533 Hai Ba Trung St. Price: 4 USD/ 1 dish

The recipe for these dumplings is secret, held by one family in Hoi An who supplies all the restaurants. At 533 Hai Ba Trung Street, Tran Tuan Ngai is a third generation secret keeper of the traditional white rose recipe.

Check our vide: How to make white rose Hoi An?

4. Quang Noodle

The noodle is yellow or white in color and made from rice flour. It is mixed with shrimp, pork and vegetables, and topped with grilled rice paper and spices. This noodle dish is a complex mixture of flavors and texture. The vibrant wide yellow tumeric noodles, sesame rice crackers, roasted peanuts, fresh herbs, and flavourful. Unlike these noodle soups, mì Quảng is served with very little broth and almost like a dry noodle dish or noodle salad with the broth serving to bring all the flavors together.

Quang soft noodle soup tastes best when being served with a variety of herbs, such as mint leaves, houttunya, cabbage, onion, coriander and so on.

What makes Quang noodle soups unique is the richness of the broth, the lack of it and the crushed peanut toppings on the noodles.

7 Incredible Things to do in Vietnam’s Central Highlands Region

The Central Highlands region of Vietnam is a lush forested area home to indigenous tribes, traditional villages, the captivating city of Dalat, sparkling waterfalls and the odd elephant here and there!

Soak up the culture of Dalat

The Central Highlands is elevated at 1,500 meters and offer a welcome respite from the tropical humidity of the south of Vietnam and the landscape is dominated by lush rolling hills, punctuated with ancient villages. Few travellers make in this far inland, which is to your advantage. The main highlights are the former battlefield sites, the indigenous tribes and the charming city of Dalat, dubbed Vietnam’s original resort city. Central Highlands and Qui Nhon Beach 7 days

Dalat goes by several different names: ‘the Jewel of the Central Highlands’ and ‘City of Eternal Spring’ are just two. Whatever you choose to call it, Dalat is the very antithesis of Ho Chi Minh City 300km further south: it’s cooler and more laidback. The city was established as a hill station in the late 19th century, designed to offer respite for the resident Europeans from the oppressive heat and humidity of Saigon. Today Dalat retains its unique culture, from the exquisite French colonial architecture of the French Quarter, to the European villas and traditional farmhouses. In fact some of the larger Colonial properties have been fully restored and are in use today as hotels. BASSAC CRUISE

Don’t miss the gingerbread-style Dalat Cathedral (pictured above) which was built in 1931 for exclusive use of the French visitors and residents. Stop by the magnificent Crémaillère Railway Station, which is resplendent in bright yellow Art Deco style, although sadly its not used a great deal anymore. And gawp at the truly bizarre Hang Nga ‘Crazy House’ which was designed by a local war hero’s daughter and which has mystified travellers for years. Its architecture is likened to that of Antoni Gaudi and the grounds are said to be inspired by Dr. Seuss. Image Cruise

Dalat is also known as the ‘City of Thousands of Pines’ thanks to the abundance of fragrant pine trees that line the banks of the many lakes. Chill out with a trip on one of the lakes, both natural and artificial including Da Thien, Ho Xuan Huong and Tuyen Lam. The city is also famed for its beautifully fragrant flower gardens filled with roses, orchids, lilies and camellias. Don’t miss the delightful Dalat Flower Park, located towards the end of Xuan Huong Lake which covers an impressive 7,000 sq. meters. Also in the area are individual flower gardens set around an authentic reconstructed Vietnamese teakwood house. Give your legs a rest and opt for a brief cable car ride u over Dalat’s pine forests, which also takes in an impressive hill-top pagoda. Alternatively a 4×4 trip up the Langbiang Mountain offers spectacular views over Dalat’s mountains, valleys and cityscape. Get here for either sunrise or sunset for an awesome view.

Finally Dalat firmly cements its position as the honeymoon capital of Vietnam with its dreamy palaces and summer houses. The thirteenth and final emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty Bao Dai (1913-1997) resided at the city’s three heritage sites, which are known as Palace I, II and III. Together with the Dalat Palace Hotel and the Dalat Du Park Hotel many of the structures was established around 1922. The Emperor also perfected his swing at the Dalat Palace Golf Club, with its sprawling greens, built in European style.

7 Incredible Things to do in Vietnam’s Central Highlands Region

Try the world-famous coffee of Buon Ma Thuot

The capital of Dak Lak Province is Buon Ma Thuot, which is best known for its production of famous Vietnamese coffee. Catch the annual festival each March which is dedicated to the ‘black nectar’. The town also offers a gateway to the Yok Don National Park…

Hike in the Yok Don National Park

Head about 40km west of Buon Ma Thuot to explore the vast National Park of Yok Don. This biodiverse forest is an important conservation site and is home to nearly forty different animal species which are globally endangered, including the Asian elephant, leopard, red wolf and tiger. Established in 1986, the park is an excellent place to hike the forested hills and traverse the pretty waterfalls and Srepok River. Birdwatchers will also be in their element with over 250 different types of bird species to be found here.

Explore the heritage of Lak Lake

Ho Lak, aka Lak Lake, is the largest natural lake within Vietnam’s Central Highlands and visitors are treated to a glimpse of everyday traditional life that take place on the banks of the lake. Jun village at the southern end is home to the traditional M’nong settlement who still live in authentic stilt houses crafted locally from wood and rattan. As well as the M’nong, there are also other colourful minority hill tribes that call this are home, such as the Edeh and Jarai. Travellers can ride an elephant alongside the lake or take a dugout canoe (or a boat if you’re not feeling adventurous) across the lake to explore Emperor Bao Dai’s former hunting lodge.

Discover the minority hill tribes of Kontum

The quiet village of Kontum offers a fascinating insight into rural life. Centuries old Sedang, Rengao, Bahnar, Gieh Trieng  and Jarai minority hill tribes live in settlement which are centered around the ‘rong’ – a massive communal building where communities gather. Don’t miss the Tan Huong Church, the wooden Montagnard Church which was constructed in 1913 and the colonial-style Catholic seminary.

Chill out in Ngoc Hoi

The small town of Ngoc Hoi is close to the border with Laos on the popular Ho Chi Minh walking trail. Visitors can stay here and soak up the calm atmosphere prior to crossing over into Laos.

Experience Pleiku for yourself

The town of Pleiku is located in the Gia Lai Province and is home to communities of the Kinh ethnic group. The town has a pretty little pagoda, the Minh Thanh Pagoda, which travellers can wander around. Close by is the Bien Ho Lake where visitors can try their hand at fishing or hire a local boatman to ferry them across the lake.

Hanoi Ancient Citadel

This Citadel is located in a large space, Ba Dinh, Hanoi. It was ranked 'Historical National Culture' in 1999 and now in the center of Hanoi, Ba Dinh district. Hanoi Ancient Citadel and monuments located in the ancient region, has over 10 centuries. Indochina sails – Halong Bay travel

In 1010, King Ly Thai To moved the capital from Hoa Lu to Thang Long, the castle was built and expanded in the following reign. Thang Long is planning with three nested rounds. The Long Phuong Ly – Tran is in the palace area. Citadel in the middle covers the economic area in the east. La Thanh or Dai La Thanh is outmost citadel. In 1805, the Nguyen reign of Hanoi has retained the Forbidden City area to ​​offer the king when touring in the north. During the French reign, the French keep this area as commander of the military. JAHAN CRUISE

Hanoi Ancient Citadel

Five old structures have retained after the French attacks Hanoi citadel:

In old buildings left over after the French broke into Hanoi from south to north, including the following items: The Hanoi flag tower, Doan Mon Gate, Kinh Thien, Hau Lau and Bac Mon.

Bac Mon
Bac Mon is the only remaining gate of the Citadel of Hanoi’s Nguyen Dynasty. Previously, outside of the citadel, it has a canal with 20 meters width. Bac Mon has completed the restoration, renovation to serve travelers. However, the traces of shells from the French warship fired on April 25th 1873 that remains on the outside of the Bac Mon. Two wooden gates was renovated, the area of each wing is 12 meter, 16 tons weight. Today, on the Gate, there is place to worship two General Director of Hanoi: Nguyen Tri Phuong and Hoang Dieu. Hanoi & Halong Bay 4 days

Hau Lau
Hau Lau was built behind the main of building- Hanh Cung Hanoi. According to feng shui, Hau Lau means keep peace for northern Hanh Cung. It is said that when the King travels, this is the accommodation of princess.

Hanoi flag Pole

It was built in 1812, under the reign of Gia Long, Hanoi flag pole is one of the buildings in area of Hanoi ancient intact.
Flag pole has more 40 meter height, octagon, standing on the square. Having spiral staircase, 51 steps leading to the top. The Hanoi flag pole has been rebuilt twice: in December 1959 and November 1989.
Kinh Thien palace

Kinh Thien palace is central citadel of Le reign. Stone dragon of Kinh Thien palace is a masterpiece of architecture that represents sculpture Le So reign.

Top 10 Things to Do in Vietnam

Vietnam is a rich, woven tapestry made up from the many cultures and civilisations which have lived, invaded or ruled here. You can still see old men in berets in Dalat – thanks to the French influence; Chinese temples and pagodas are everywhere while in the north various ethnic hill tribe folk live and dress in much the way they have done for centuries past. This is a diverse land and there is plenty to keep the visitor occupied whether you prefer well-trodden routes or something a little more out of the way. Here is selection of 10 of the best. Travel to Vietnam
1) Hoi-An
A place like no other in Vietnam, the UNESCO World Heritage listed Old Town of Hoi-An is a feast for the eyes with its picturesque waterfront, Chinese-style houses and colourful, flower draped, buildings.
An unhurried meander around once the sun goes to bed is a major destination highlight as swaying lanterns and coloured lights create a dreamy atmosphere. With a small dose of imagination you can imagine yourself back in the times when Hoi-An was a principal port for the Indonesian spice trade.
The lovely Cua Dai beach is just a quick bike ride away and bike hire is everywhere and cheap. If made-to-measure clothing happens to be on your wish-list you’ve come to the right place. Hoi-An is simply bursting at the seams with tailor shops who can whip up anything from a pair of shorts to a bespoke suit, in some cases overnight.

Top 10 Things to Do in Vietnam

2) Stroll the Alleys of Saigon
Despite its change of name to Ho Chi Minh City, Saigon is still the name you will hear uttered by many of its people and what people they are! The city is congested, noisy and just a little crazy as many major cities are. However, unlike other metropolises, Saigon seems to exude a warmth and human element which is so often lacking elsewhere – smiles are handed out freely here.
For a true glimpse into the Vietnamese urban way of life go for a wander through the alleyways. Narrow enough to be able to touch the walls either side as you stroll, you will still see motorbikes weaving round the children as they play. City folk live and work here; you will see disembodied feet poking into the alley from rooms just big enough to hold a mattress and outside may be a Hobbit-sized table and chair where food is served.
Labyrinthine and tiny, these corridors heave with activity and character and are just as jam-packed with grins and waves as everywhere else in this special city.
3) Ha Long Bay – Northern Vietnam
Blatantly touristy it may be and there is no doubt you will be rubbing shoulders with multitudes of gap-year travellers but there is no denying the breath-taking and mystical beauty of World Heritage listed Ha Long Bay. Rising dramatically from emerald waters are almost 2000 limestone islands sculpted into strange shapes and each wearing a hat of lush jungle greenery. Travel Halong bay
Halong Bay
Day cruises are possible but they don’t get you to the more spectacular corners of the bay – for this you will need an overnight cruise. Up for exploration are wave-sculpted grottoes and caves, beautiful beaches and hidden lakes.
4) Cu-Chi Tunnels – 40km north-west of Ho Chi Minh City
The Cu Chi tunnels – part of the vast network used by the Viet Cong – are a must-see site for anyone interested in the war between Vietnam and the U.S. The underground labyrinth – of which Cu Chi is a part – is where the Viet Cong worked, hid, stored supplies, arranged military operations and in some cases lived for years.
A visit to the Cu Chi tunnels will show you examples of  how people lived in this underground world as well as giving you the chance to fit yourself into one of the hide-out holes. There is even a section of tunnel which visitors can crawl through (with escape routes every few metres for anyone who finds the claustrophobic confines too much). Also on display are booby traps, a bombed out tank, weapons and bomb crater remains.
For all those action-man wannabes out there, there is a shooting range with the opportunity of firing an AK47 (among other weapons) to your heart’s content. Beware though – you pay per bullet and it could get costly if you get carried away in the moment.
5) My Son – Duy Phú
Although a substantial amount of the Hindu temples at My Son were destroyed by bombing during the Vietnam War it is still worth a visit. The spread-out site contains clustered buildings and evocatively ruined temples dating from the 4th century AD – built during the Cham Empire period. To fully understand what you are seeing it is best to take a guided tour as none of the ruins have any interpretation panels. The site is also best viewed early in the morning or later in the day to avoid the main bulk of the tourists.
6) Mekong Delta
A visit to the Mekong Delta area in Southern Vietnam gives the visitor a window onto a rich and colourful region peppered with local villages and traditional lifestyles. No trip to Vietnam is complete without at least one river journey on the mighty Mekong and here is where it finally reaches the end of its journey and joins the sea. Mekong river cruise
Mekong Delta Vietnam
Among the many experiences and sights on offer you can cruise among the colourful craft of the floating markets, get up close to the floating fishing villages, visit a honey farm, row along in a traditional sampan, visit tiny villages and sample the sounds and smells of sprawling port markets.
Each of the Mekong Delta delights can be visited independently but it is often cheaper and far easier to book onto one of the many tours available. These range from single day trips to several days with authentic home-stays with a Vietnamese family as part of the deal.
7) War Remnants Museum – Ho Chi Minh City
As many trips to Vietnam begin in this city, the War Remnants Museum is a good way to gain an early insight into this country’s tragic history, primarily with reference to what we Westerners call ‘the Vietnam War’.
The Museum is ostensibly a collection of photographs exhibited over several floors with themed rooms such as ‘Agent Orange’ (the highly toxic defoliant used by the U.S. Military), the use of napalm and the My Lai massacre. Exhibits are in places graphic and not for the squeamish.
Among the outside exhibits are a ‘Huey’ (UH-1) helicopter, diffused bombs and ordnance as well as various other pieces of military equipment.
Critics complain the museum is too one-sided which, being situated in Vietnam, may be both true and understandable. However, it does help the Western visitor look at both sides of the coin having previously perhaps only been exposed to the U.S. perspective with films such as ‘Apocalypse Now’ and ‘Full Metal Jacket’.
8) Hang Nga Crazy House – Dalat
If the words weird, wonderful and outlandish float your boat the Crazy House is a definite must-do. Designed by PhD qualified architect Mrs Dang Viet Nga, the aptly named Crazy House is a surreal riot of intertwining branches, narrow criss-crossing walkways, tiny tunnels, odd-shaped steps leading this way and that, little rooms and hidey holes, houses on stilts, towers and platforms, all set with angles slightly off and with weird perspectives.
Crazy House Vietnam
Wander where you will – which will almost certainly involve getting lost at least once – and marvel at the mind which envisaged and made real this wonderful place.
If a visit isn’t enough then it is possible to stay here in one of the Lord of the Rings-esque rooms – all totally unique and themed.
9) Sapa – North Vietnam
The rugged scenery of this beautiful mountain town surrounded by rice terraces and rich tropical vegetation is worth the journey here in itself. However, the main reason for visits here is to afford travellers a glimpse into a way of life little changed in centuries – that of the hill tribe people. Glimpsing colourful and unusual traditional dress while learning and witnessing age-old customs and culture are all part of the draw. There are many ethnic minority hill tribes who live around this area and there are plenty of tours and companies ready and willing to introduce you.
If acquiring a souvenir or two is your aim the people of these ethnic tribes create a diverse and beautiful range of hand-made goods for both the Vietnamese and the tourist market which include tribal clothing, blankets and jewellery.
Trekking is also a big thing here and with good reason – the scenery is stunning and there are plenty of rewards for your time and effort.
10) Marble Mountain – Near Da Nang
The majestic and magical Marble Mountain, which is inexplicably absent from must-see lists and almost all tourist literature, is at base level a Buddhist pilgrimage site, Spread over five hills and dotted with caves, tunnels and temples, this super-special place oozes serenity and has the smell of incense ever-present.
Each of the caves is connected by way of pathways and carved marble steps which meander between bushes full of bloom. As you walk along with the scent of incense wafting in the air, butterflies flutter past and lizards skit among the trees. Along the way you will find dragon statues, pagodas, gateways and archways.
The caves themselves vary from pocket sized grottoes with just enough room for a candle ornamented altar while the biggest are cathedral-like and stunning with whole temples inside. Shafts of sunlight blaze down from small holes way, way above while further exploration of passage ways  may suddenly unveil Buddha statues carved directly from the stone itself – some small, some enormous.
This is a truly magical place – the air and beauty of which can only be fully appreciated by visiting.

Tại sao nghệ và mật ong lại có thể trị đau dạ dày hiệu quả?

Tinh bột nghệ đen là một vị thuốc quý, tinh chất của nghệ có tác dụng tăng tiết mật, hỗ trợ tiêu hóa nhưng lại không tăng tiết vị dạ dày,bên cạnh đó nghệ còn ức chế sự phát triển và khả năng sinh khối u trong dạ dày , do vậy khi bị viêm loét dạ dày nghệ được lựa chọn là phương pháp ưu việt từ thiên nhiên .

Tại sao nghệ và mật ong lại có thể trị đau dạ dày hiệu quả?

Mật ong nguyên chất trong y học cổ truyền vừa là vị thuốc quý và cũng là thực phẩm có giá dinh dưỡng cao

Mật ong chứa đường Glucose, Fructose, Maltose, Sucrose, các acid amin, khoáng chất, enzym tiêu hóa,cùng rất nhiều loại VitaminA, B1, B2, B6, E..kích thích sự chao đổi chất. kali, magê kích thích ăn ngon miệng, làm tăng hàm lượng axit hữu cơ, cải thiện hệ tiêu hóa tốt hơn, thành phần phấn hoa trong mật ong tăng cường khả năng miễn dịch..mật ong làm giảm tiết dịch axít trong dạ dày nên các triệu chứng đau rát nhanh chóng mất đi. Bạn có thể dùng củ nghệ đen tươi

Hỗn hợp tinh bột nghệ và mật ong là khác tinh của căn bệnh viêm , loét dạ dày.

Mekong delta Travel Guides

MeKong detal where is one of the largest rivers in the world is the 12th and it is the largest river of VietNam. The Mekong River, with length of 4,800 kilometers, originating from China, flows through Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia and down the East Sea in Vietnam.
1, MeKong delta Information
Location
MeKong deltaVietnam is a very rich, beauty and lush area.MeKong delta is the southern most region of VietNam end of the Mekong river is the largest river of VietNam. It splits in Cambodia into two main rivers: the Bassac and Upper river, then in Viet Nam creat a maze of small canals, rivers and floating markets. Life in the Mekong Delta revolves much around the river and boats are still the main means of transport to access villages.
Climate
Trips to Mekong Delta are suitable all year round but the best time is the monsoon from June to September.
Transport:
Mekong is home to the the vast river, canal, crisscrossed canals. Seasonal flooding, Mekong people used canoes, boats as shelter, housing, earn a living and prevent flooding.
2, Some of the major tourist attractions in MeKong delta- Viet Nam are:
Journeys to Mekong Delta are boat trips through canals, floating markets, exploring the local daily life by staying overnight on islands and visiting family run factories; not less interesting, tasting local specialities. The most renowned places in the Mekong Delta are My Tho, Vinh Long, Can Tho and Chau Doc. This is also a natural passageway from southern Vietnam to Cambodia either by road or by river.

• Mango 3 days Ben Tre – Sa Dec – Chau Doc
• Mango 3 days Chau Doc – Can Tho – Ben Tre

Mekong delta Travel Guides

When you go to MeKong, you can explored along the MeKong river such as: garden tour ( Tien Giang , Ben Tre , Vinh Long , Can Tho , Dong Thap , Hau Giang ); floating tourist season ( Long Xuyen , Chau Doc , Ha Tien , Rach Gia , Dong Thap Muoi ); mangrove tour and island ( Bac Lieu , Ca Mau , Phu Quoc ) , spiritual tourism , culture ...
Mekong cylingMekong Cycling
Coming The Mekong Delta you have a chance to take part in Floating Markets in which all kinds of product are traded from boats.
In there, visitors can explore quaint riverside towns, some fruits on floating markets is fresh and colour fancy. To make shopping easier, the boats suspend a sample of what they sell from the top of a long pole. Besides, you can visit small riverside workshops including blacksmiths, rice huskers, thatchers and coffin makers. Other highlights include visits to local orchards, flower markets and fish farms. There are also bird sanctuaries, rustic beach getaways like Hon Chong and impressive Khmer pagodas in the regions around Soc Trang and Tra Vinh.

When to go in Hue

Vietnam's north-south extent and seasonal wind patterns give it a varied climate, which make it a viable destination at any time of the year. Some seasons are more favourable than others, however.

The Vietnamese climate

The north of the country experiences four seasons, with a surprisingly cool winter season for the latitude. The summer months from May to September are almost always hot and humid, with the most rainfall occurring during this period. Winter, from late December to early March, is often grey, drizzly and chilly. Hue Citadel, Vietnam travel

The south has two seasons, wet and dry. During the rainy months between May and November, it rains fiercely for about 30 minutes a day (but some days not at all), normally in the afternoon or early evening. The dry season runs from December to April, with the hottest months stretching from March to late April, with temperatures well over 30°C (86°F) Jasmine Cruise – Halong Bay

When to go in Hue

In Central Vietnam – roughly from Danang to Nha Trang – the dry season runs from February to September, and is followed by lots of rain from October to December. The seasons are not as pronounced here, however, and it can rain at any time of the year, but the hottest months are June/July while the coolest months are December/January.

• 3 days to the Floating Markets

High and low season in Vietnam

Generally, high season is from October through March. The peak is from mid-December through February, at which time prices can nearly double, particularly in beach-resort areas. During the peak season it is essential to have advanced reservations in resort areas such as Mui Ne and Nha Trang. Conversely, in the low season some hotels, resorts and restaurants may close for a month.

The best and worst times to visit are subjective to some degree. If you are a budget traveller and don’t mind a few wet days, come in low season. If you enjoy bustling activity, want the best chance of good beach weather and can afford the extra costs – and particularly want to spend Christmas, New Year or Tet in Vietnam – then high season is for you.

It’s near-impossible to find a time of the year when the north, centre and south have equally good weather, but the safest bet – if you’re travelling the length of Vietnam – is between March and April. The rains will have abated, humidity levels are still bearable, and it will be relatively warm and dry throughout Vietnam. However, if you are just visiting north and south Vietnam and skipping the centre, November and December are good months too.

Vietnam's festivals and events

Festivals in Vietnam are a time of fun and plenty. In fact, the country is a great place for festival lovers. Colourful celebrations, most with a strong Chinese cultural influence, take place throughout the year, although the most interesting are in spring and autumn. Common elements in traditional festivals include temple visits, offerings to ancestors or tutelary gods, costumes, dragon and lion dancing, music, parades – and lots of food.

Negotiating Hoi An's street food stalls

What we say: 4 stars
Vietnam is a fast-food nation based around slow-cooked food. Breakfast and lunch is taken on the hoof — it’s pho to go and rice on the run until you sit down for dinner with the family at the end of the working day. Street food is king, with mobile snacking a close second. Here’s our rundown on what you’ll find in Hoi An while on the go. Centre Vietnam tours
Permanent shops
In Hoi An, to have a permanent structure on a permanent pitch is a rarity unless you are working from the front room/motorbike garage of your roadside home. You’ll find very few who have ‘made it’ to the top of the rung, however stumble across one of these and you will be rewarded with some of the best examples of street food to be had. Phuong Bahn Mi on Hoang Dieu Street backing on to the central market is for very good reason a must-try.

Danang – Hue – Hoian 4 days

Permanent mobile stalls
A permanent mobile stall is one which rucks up each morning to set up on its own pavement pitch for the day. More often than not these stalls trade in bahn mi or nuoc mia (sugar cane juice) with the occasional barbecue firing up in the late afternoon. When Hoi An shook hands with UNESCO, all these traders in the old town were relocated to the central food market in town, one of the best spots to sample a good cao lau or mi quang, and to a covered area to the far left of An Hoi, in an effort to keep the streets clean. Step out of the pedestrianised streets however and you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Negotiating Hoi An's street food stalls

Trailer food
These mobile vendors often seen walking their carts up the road in their pyjamas are the owners of semi-permanent pitches, perhaps at a market or streetside location shared by several vendors. A great Hoi An example is the massive banyan tree on Tran Cao Van Street, where the 07:00 slot is held by an old Ba selling the sweet bean soup of che (one of the most popular in town). She hangs up her ladle at 11:00 to be replaced by the fruit juice lady, who later joins rank with the pork noodle-bun thit nuong family at around 14:00 each day.
Motorbike vendors
With no fixed trading abode you’ll find motorbike food vendors cruising the streets touting their wares on bikes laden with pots and pans, occasionally sporting a smoking barbecue strapped tightly to the petrol tank. The food you buy from these traders in Hoi An is not often found in restaurants — it’s a whole new menu of 5,000 to 10,000 VND treats waiting to be flagged down and sampled.

• Indochina sails – Halong Bay travel

And the must-tries? Listen out for “banh chung day, cha day” — “I sell sausages”, delicious pork stuffed in banana leaf. And you can’t leave Hoi An without trying a banh beo, a yummy steamed bun packed with a quail egg and pork.
Bicycle vendors
Easier to flag down than their motorbike riding friends, the menagerie of conical hat-wearing vendors sell a variety of cheap eats. The corn ladies who patrol the streets, shouting what may sound like “assss hooole” from February till October are well worth risking 2,000 VND over, selling what seems like 101 different corn dishes with a side order of sweet milk.
Basket ladies
It’s the photo we all go home with, the two-baskets-on-a-pole wielding ladies selling everything from fruit to full-blown meals. In Hoi An the best way to find them is to head to the market on riverside Bach Dang Street, where you’ll find a whole array of snacks from Hoi An’s famed white rose – plump shrimp filled rice dumplings — through to tiny sea snails. A great thing to try here is the betelnut. Just 1,000 VND will get you a lesson in rolling and chewing the nut from an old Ba, and maybe some of the best photo opportunities to be had.