Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City)
Once upon a time this was romantically referred to by the French as the Pearl of the Orient but today Ho Chi Minh City is referred to as Saigon but almost everyone who lives there. It is a modern city and has only been under Vietnamese control for a little more than 200 years. The character of the city remains heavily French influenced with villas, a lively café society and wide boulevards but with a strong Asian feel. Saigon has more of a cosmopolitan feel than Hanoi although most of the old French colonial city is rapidly vanishing beneath the constant rising skyline. Saigon is a fresh, fun and vibrant city desperate to be explored and a ‘must do’ on any Vietnam holiday.
Mekong River Delta
Mekong Delta is the perfect relaxation place for holiday to Vietnam. Classed as the southern rice bowl of Vietnam, it is a fertile area covered with rice fields and winding tributaries of the Mekong River. Originating from the high plateau of Tibet, the Mekong River spans over 2600 miles long and travels through China, Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia before reaching Vietnam. The Delta is a colourful and beautiful display of rural life with its lush and plentiful vegetation, island farms and floating markets. A place not to be missed, the Mekong River Delta will provide a Vietnam holiday not to forget.
DaLat
In the central highlands lies DaLat, Le Petit Paris which was the name given to this former French hill station. The Vietnamese like to name it City of Eternal Spring because of the cooler, fresher air of this mountainous region. It is nestled in the highlands and known for its tranquil beauty and was a favourite of the French during colonial days. There is much French influence here and there are hundreds of picturesque colonial villas dotted throughout the town. The alpine landscape of pine forests, rolling hills and tranquil lakes make it a popular getaway for honeymooners and travellers alike.
Nha Trang
Nha Trang offers the widest selection of accommodations in the central coastal region of all the seaside areas in Vietnam. It proudly hosts some of the best-known beaches and pristine crystal clear waters. Popular for snorkelling and diving, the area has a lively atmosphere and many ocean front seafood restaurants and sidewalk cafes. Stunning examples of the Cham culture can also be found in the 10th century Po Nagar Towers.
Halong Bay
Halong Bay in the North of the country is one of the most scenic areas in Vietnam. It has over 3000 fascinating sculptured islands rising from the clear emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. Perfect for visit whilst on holiday to Vietnam, the rock formations are full of fabulous grottos, caves and lovely beaches. You can wander through rock formations which legend says were made by a mighty dragon whose feet caused the formation of mountains in the sea.
Author: Victoria is a writer for http://www.greatvietnamholiday.co.uk/. Find them on twitter @greatvietnam or
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Great-Vietnam-Holiday-Collection/281600138573418.