New island in Vietnam. Phu Quoc Island - holidays in Vietnam

Holidays in Vietnam.

Blooming Vietnam is a chaos of natural beauty, bringing new adventures every day. The senses are thrilled and alive when you walk the crazy streets of Hanoi, visit the villages around the city of Sapa, or sail along the majestic Ha Long Bay.

In Vietnam, the food, people, sights and great history keep even seasoned travelers coming back for more.

This sunny country attracts a lot of tourists with its wonderful beauty: from the bright green rice plantations in the north to the adventurous trekking in the Mekong Delta in the south of the country. However, this is a land with ancient traditions and centuries-old history, with many historical monuments and ancient temples.

There is no shortage of experiences to enjoy and there is plenty to keep your holiday busy. Vietnam is a country that abounds in spectacle and diverse natural landscapes, most of which are unexplored and untouched. From the rustic French charm and exquisite temple architecture of Hanoi to the awe-inspiring scenery of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam has exciting attractions to offer tourists with an enchanting eclecticism.

When planning a Vietnam vacation, make sure you don't miss out on the festivals and celebrations listed in the travel guides. These local village get-togethers and celebrations are a great way to get to know the people of the country and understand their customs and beliefs.

Tourism in Vietnam.

Tourism is a modern component of the Vietnamese economy. In 2012, the country received more than six million guests. The annual increase represented a victory over the 2008 decline in attendance caused by the Great Recession. The Vietnam National Tourism Administration is pursuing a long-term plan to diversify the tourism industry, which is bringing a large influx of foreign investment into the country.

The top ten most visited cities in Vietnam include:

Capital – Hanoi;

Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in the country;

Haiphong is the city, the third largest;

Da Nang is the largest city in the center of the country;

Can Tho is the largest city in the Mekong Delta (4th largest in Vietnam);

Hue is the capital of Vietnam under the Nguyen dynasty;

Nha Trang is one of the largest cities in the Central South Coast;

Phan Thiet is the resort capital of Vietnam.

Geography of Vietnam.

The Vietnamese state is located in the south. - the eastern part of Asia, shares borders with the PRC, in the north. - the western part of the country with Laos, to the south. - western with Cambodia and the Chinese Sea on the eastern outskirts. In terms of geography, Vietnam is the 65th largest country in the world, with an area of ​​approximately 332 thousand square km. In terms of population, Vietnam is ranked 13th in the world.

High mountains, dense and impassable forests, rivers and valleys, vast deltas represent the diverse and beautiful nature of Vietnam. The climate in Vietnam is tropical with its monsoons, with approximately 85% humidity on all days of the year. However, there are climatic differences within the country, this depends on the specific region, for example, near the sea the temperature is usually higher than on the plains; In the mountainous areas, winter is quite cool, and in the summer season it is very sunny and hot.

Let's look at a review of the TOP 11 amazing tourist places in Vietnam.

The best resorts in Vietnam.

Vietnam has become an idyllic holiday destination. Tropical beaches have long become favorite places among the local population, travelers and tourists from all over the world. Over the years, the comfortable beaches have inevitably expanded as tourists become acquainted with the turquoise waters and unique scuba diving in the sea of ​​the central and southern coasts.

There are a lot of well-equipped resorts, adventure seekers can find inexpensive and comfortable bungalows, and even modest hotels in cities still untouched by developers.

Vietnam has more than 3,500 kilometers of coastline, many secluded white sandy coves, clear waters ideal for snorkeling, picturesque lagoons and tropical islands ringed with even more beaches. During your days of relaxation, sunbathing near the sea under the sun, and in the evenings watching stunning sunsets, you will appreciate the best resorts in Vietnam.

The best time to visit the northern beaches of Vietnam is between May and August.

Nha Trang is the largest seaside resort town located along the magnificent bays of Vietnam. Tourists have comfortable beaches with clean and fine sand, clean ocean water with moderate temperatures. The city has about 300,000 residents with a more lively urban character than other beach destinations like Mui Ne and Phu Quoc. There are a lot of diving centers in this resort town.

The sights of Nha Trang against the backdrop of stunning panoramas are snow-white sandy beaches, green mountains, and untouched islands. An ideal holiday destination for history buffs, Nha Trang is home to the remains of the Champa Kingdom, Buddhist temples and Gothic-style Catholic churches. At the same time, natural hot springs, salt fields, and unique waterfalls offer many excursions and recreational hikes.

Since most of these monuments are located in close proximity to numerous hotels, most tourists prefer to travel on foot, by bicycle or by motorcycle. However, you can book sightseeing tours on motorcycles and bicycles. These tours include hotel stays, transfers, meals, and an accompanying guide.

Tunnels underground Cu Chi.

The tunnels are a large network of underground corridors located about forty kilometers to the north. - west of Ho Chi Minh. The tunnels were used as hideouts by Viet Cong guerrillas during the war. They have become a popular tourist attraction and visitors are encouraged to visit safer corridors.

The length of the Cu Chi tunnels is more than two hundred kilometers. Work on the tunnels was started by Vietnamese guerrillas during the Indochina conflict in 1948, as a means of shelter from French air strikes. The communication tunnels provided vital infrastructure that provided strategic control to all major rural areas of Ho Chi Minh City. Over the next two decades, the tunnels grew into a complex underground city, including hospitals, defenses and living quarters. Despite all the powerful air strikes in this area, almost all local residents could safely continue to live underground.

The Cu Chi tunnels stretch from the southern Vietnamese capital to the Cambodian border, and in those places the tunnel was three floors deep.

Many areas of the tunnel were destroyed by bombing in the 1970s, but the existing parts have been restored and are open to tourists as a poignant and fascinating reminder of those times.

Exciting hikes in the Mekong Delta.

This delta is an interesting tourist area where the Mekong River flows into the sea. This is a region quite rich and vibrant with traditions, the area of ​​which is sown with rice fields; this area produces up to half of all agricultural products in Vietnam.

All measured life along the Mekong River revolves around its banks, and all the villages are more accessible along the river, and not along paths and roads.

There are many tour operators that specialize in providing excursion tours along the Mekong River, and at reasonable prices. The Mekong River plays an important role in the development of tourism in the country due to its attractive landscapes and diverse and distinctive culture.

The Mekong Delta links all tours between the canals, the rice fields are ideal destinations for all tourists who want to find a tranquil atmosphere and experience the simplicity of rural life.

There are plenty of beautiful sceneries to enjoy: floating markets, Asian unicorn, Binh Islands, bee farms, crocodile farm, raft village and more.

Mui no.

This previously small populated beach, not far from the fishing village of Muine, has over the past 15 years grown into a good tourist resort. The strong sea breeze makes it a very popular spot in Vietnam for kite surfing and windsurfing. No trip to the village of Muine would be complete without a visit to the famous sand dunes, located just a stone's throw north of the village. On the endless sandy expanses you will have the opportunity to admire magnificent panoramic views, especially during sunset.

Muine is the most beautiful coastline, with its beaches and upscale boutiques along the entire resort. This area of ​​Vietnam is geographically blessed by God with sand dunes that prevent monsoon rains from neighboring areas. And for most of the year, this amazing resort makes it a Mecca for surfers and just vacationers.

Besides water sports, one of Muine's popular attractions are the red and white sand dunes, which you can see on your own by walking or riding in a jeep. A wonderful stream flows through the dunes, creating red rock formations that can be explored by following the stream.

Rice terraces near Sapa.

Sapa is a Vietnamese city in the north. - in the west of the country, not far from the Chinese border. Multi-level rice terraces can be seen in the green valley of Muong Hoa, between the city itself and the mountains against the backdrop of a dense bamboo forest. From time immemorial, local highlanders have grown corn and rice, along with vegetables, on these land terraces.

Sapa is home to stunning mountain scenery, green rice plantations, and unique villages on stilts. The most famous attraction in Sapa city is Mount Fansipan, which is the largest mountain in Vietnam and is only 19 km from the city. From the city, this may seem like a short distance, but if you take an excursion hike to this mountain, keep in mind that it may not be an easy hike; When moving over rough terrain, you may encounter unpredictable weather and some difficulties. Such a hiking trip may appeal to tourists in good health and who have climbing equipment; of course, technical climbing skills are not needed, but endurance is a must.

Phu Quoc beach island.

Located off the coast of Cambodia, Phu Quoc is considered the largest island in Vietnam. It is called a tropical tranquil paradise, washed by the warm turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand.

The island has virgin tropical forests, untouched coral reefs and an excellent beach. One of its famous beaches, Bai Dai, was chosen by ABC news as one of several beautiful and clean beaches.

Phu Quoc is famous in the world for producing the best Nuoc Mam or fermented fish sauce.

In truth, this tourist destination is now considered the jewel of Vietnam, with many unique landscapes, where you can spend days exploring the remote corners of the island, relaxing on sunny beaches and enjoying fresh seafood in local restaurants.

Hoi An.

Hoi An is an amazing fishing village located on the shores of the South China Sea. Hoi An was once an international seaport dating back to the 16th century, although all serious shipping business has moved to Da Nang. But the heart of this city is still the Old Town, with a web of winding small streets and Chinese-style shops. This city is sometimes called the “Venice of Vietnam” because it is criss-crossed with narrow river canals.

This small town represents the most concentrated attractions in all of Vietnam, with its old streets lined with ancient houses, pagodas and temples, ancient wells and tombs. The Hoi An tourist guide lists more than a thousand historical ancient sites.

The architecture of this city harmoniously combines Vietnamese, Chinese and Japanese culture. After many centuries, Hoi An still respects its ancient traditions, folk festivals, beliefs and its sophisticated culinary arts. A relaxing holiday awaits you, the town is surrounded by quiet villages famous for their crafts such as carpentry, bronze and ceramics.

Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi.

It is located in the historical center of Hanoi, Hoan Kiem is considered a famous picturesque lake and is a favorite vacation spot among travelers and the local population. Hoan Kiem means "Returned Sword", the name of this lake was given by a legend that tells how King Le Loi was given a magical sword by the Gods, which was used to drive out the invading Chinese. And then the king returned the sword to the Golden Turtle living in the lake.

Vacationing tourists and city residents always come to the lake when they are looking for a place to get away from the city noise. A quiet lake surrounds the holy Ngoc Son Temple, whose pagoda stands in the center of the small island.

The temple attracts many visitors and was built in honor of the great 13th century general Tran Hung Dao, who gained fame for his bravery in battle against the Yuan Dynasty.

The islet on which the temple stands is known as Jade Island, and can be reached via the ancient wooden bridge of the Rising Sun. The bridge, in classic Vietnamese style, is decorated with charming scarlet painting.

Thien Mu Pagoda.

The seven-level pagoda, known as Thien Mu, is one of the tallest in Vietnam. From the height of the pagoda there is a magnificent view of the river; it is considered an unofficial symbol of the former capital of the Vietnamese Empire. The temple was founded in 1601 during the reign of Nguyen.

Ha Long.

You will find Ha Long Bay in the northern part of Vietnam with its 120 km coastline. Halong is one of the TOP attractions in Vietnam, with its numerous tropical islands, each of which is overgrown with dense jungle. These islands form marvelous seascapes, some of which are hollow with large caves, and some have lakes and floating villages.

Break stereotypes -

Vietnam is surrounded by picturesque islands. The resorts located there are not inferior in beauty and leisure options to popular tourist destinations on the mainland. Here are the most interesting islands that deserve your attention.

This is the largest island in Vietnam with an area of ​​574 km². Almost its entire territory has been declared a protected area, consisting of untouched jungles, clean rivers, waterfalls and mountains. The latter define the landscape of Phu Quoc, which is why it is nicknamed the Island of 99 Mountains. The resort is located 65 km from the coast in the Gulf of Thailand.

The infrastructure is poorly developed; such a holiday will appeal to people who want to be alone with themselves and admire nature. The most popular activities on the island after lazily lying on the beach are diving and sea fishing.

At the heights there is a black pepper plantation, which you can visit on one of the excursions and buy a few bags of spices as a souvenir. Another asset is the pearl farms that flourish in local waters.

Ferries regularly go to Phu Quoc from the mainland, boats and boats travel like taxis, so getting there is not difficult. There are almost no roads on the island, so there is no point in renting a car.

This island lies not far from Nha Trang. You can get there by ferry. The journey will take approximately 30 minutes. People come here to see a huge aquarium, the building of which resembles a 3-deck ship. On the 1st and 2nd floors you can get acquainted in detail with the ichthyofauna of the region. On the top floor there is a seafood restaurant and a souvenir shop.

It is also worth taking a stroll through the fishing village of Tri Nguyen and stopping by the picturesque Bai Soai Beach.

The island is located in close proximity to Nha Trang. On a relatively small piece of land there is a 5-star hotel of the same name and the largest amusement park in the country. You can get to the island in 20 minutes by cable car. Its length is just over 3,300 meters, and its height reaches 70 m above sea level. There are regular water taxis, but travel by this type of transport will be more expensive. Tickets to enter the park are sold directly on the mainland or at the park ticket office. Price - approximately 500,000 dong.

This island, located in Quang Ngai province, is not yet very well known to tourists, and therefore has not yet lost its natural charm. Lee Son was formed as a result of volcanic activity, as evidenced by 5 extinct craters and pieces of solidified lava along the coastline.

Duc and Hang Pagodas have important religious significance for the locals and are worth a visit to admire the architectural forms and interior decoration.

In addition to tourism, local residents earn money by growing garlic. This vegetable can be found in almost every dish at a local cafe. You can bring garlic sauce as a souvenir. It is so skillfully prepared that the hot-spicy taste is almost not felt.

There are no excursions to Ly Son yet; you can get to it yourself by ferry from the port of Quang Ngai.

Hon Lao (Monkey Island)

This miniature piece of land occupies a little more than 2 km² and is located approximately 20 km from Nha Trang. Once upon a time, Soviet scientists brought primates to it for study. Over time, the small population of animals grew to almost 1,500 individuals. Members of a wild flock feel at ease and are not at all afraid of people. They happily come up and take the treat from your hands. However, the friendliness of monkeys should not be overestimated. You may well be left without a camera, phone or other things dear to your heart. After a walk around the island, it is worth checking out the circus performance that takes place on Ho Lao every evening.

Hon Heo (Orchid Island)

Vietnamese guides present Hon Heo as the island with the largest variety of orchids on the planet. You can get to this pearl from Nha Trang on your own by ferry or as part of a speed boat excursion.

In addition to flowers, in the gardens you can find majestic peacocks, colorful parrots, a sculpture garden and a small circus in which elephants perform.

Extreme enthusiasts are offered to jump with a parachute or ride an ostrich. There is an “Orchid Creek” in the mountains where you can go canoeing.

After an eventful day, guests will find a beautiful beach with clear water. Thanks to the special structure of the bottom, there are almost no waves here.

Thi (Ostrich Island)

Thi lies in Nha Trang Bay, next to Monkey Island and Orchid Island. This piece of paradise attracts with stunning scenery and cozy coves ideal for snorkeling. After beach fun and contemplative relaxation, tourists go to an ostrich farm to feed and ride these giant birds.

Another attraction is the garden where the pitahaya fruit, known as dragon fruit, grows. They are unlikely to allow you to pick the fruits, but no one forbids taking photographs.

Con Dao (Turtle Island)

The island lies in the Vung Tau region, about 100 km from the coast. In fact, it is an archipelago of 16 islands united by one name. Thousands of green turtles come here from April to November to lay their eggs. The meat of these animals is considered a delicacy. The species could have been completely exterminated if the Vietnamese government had not declared the archipelago and its waters a nature reserve in 1984.

Now the islands are a tropical paradise, covered with dense forests, where rare plants grow and more than 100 species of animals live. The idyllic tranquility has brought dugongs back to the coastal waters. These animals are also called sea cows.

There is almost no tourist infrastructure - only a few hotels and restaurants. The center of civilization is the town of Con Son Village, where there are several shops with essential goods.

The voyage to the island will take approximately 30 minutes. from Hoi An, but you can get there only as part of an excursion. The thing is that Thuan Tin offers only gastronomic tours, which are very popular today.

Gourmets are invited to culinary schools, where classes will introduce the main ingredients of Vietnamese cuisine, teach them how to prepare iconic dishes, and then serve a hearty lunch.

This is one of the largest islands in Halong Bay. Its area is about 140 km². Formally, it belongs to the city of Haiphong, which is 33 km away. Cat Ba represents a rock. People have wrested space from it to build hotels, restaurants and other tourist infrastructure, which is very well developed here compared to other islands of Vietnam.

A significant area of ​​land is occupied by a national park, where you can take a fascinating walk. Not far from the reserve there are labyrinths - a legacy of the Civil War. The tunnels served as a refuge for local residents, as well as a hiding place for partisans. The galleries had everything necessary for a comfortable life.

The landscape is complemented by mangroves, lakes and coral reefs along the coast. All beaches are connected by a cableway along steep cliffs.

Active entertainment includes junk boat rides along the shore and elephant trekking.

Vietnam is one of the “rice civilizations” with ancient Buddhist temples lost in the jungle, underground guerrilla tunnels and a rich colonial heritage, perfectly preserved from French times. Vietnam is the Thailand of 20 years ago, not yet trampled by millions of tourists. “Fun, bright, inexpensive” - this is how you can describe local resort life in three words. Incendiary discos until the morning, forbidden pleasures, excellent shopping, unimaginable exotic dishes... Or a relaxing holiday with children, romantic sunsets, mountain hikes and the best photos as a souvenir. You choose what you like.

How to get there?

From Moscow to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, regular flights of Aeroflot or Vietnam Airlines take approximately 9 hours. And this is the only point that can confuse beach lovers in winter. Our fellow citizens do not need a visa to Vietnam. And if you want to see more in one trip, it’s logical to combine a vacation in Vietnam with a visit to neighboring countries - China, Laos, Cambodia, Burma or Thailand. Where is the best place to relax? More on that later.

Which resort should you choose?

If you fly now or in the coming months, then a holiday without rain is most likely in the south and center of the country. These are popular resorts: Phu Quoc Island, Vung Tau, Mui Ne, Phan Thiet, Nha Trang, Da Nang. Focus on flights to Ho Chi Minh City or Nha Trang, depending on the chosen resort. January and February are “velvet” months, it’s comfortable to relax, the air and water are +25...+28 °C. In March and April it is hot and dry, the temperature is +30…+35 °C. In the summer months, it is better to choose resorts in Northern Vietnam with a flight to Hanoi. And now we will briefly describe the most popular and rated resorts in the country, where you should go first.

Nha Trang

Nha Trang and its antipode Phan Thiet top the rating of preferences of Russian tourists. Nha Trang Bay takes an honorable 29th place in the world ranking of the most beautiful resort bays. Nha Trang (Russians from the Far East say “nishtiang”) is growing and developing rapidly, new hotels of international hotel chains appear every year. Many restaurants, shops, colorful markets, a beautiful resort promenade. You won't be bored. After or instead of the beach, you can go on a boat to the neighboring islands - see the monkeys or hang out for the whole day in an amusement park. Temple complexes, Buddha statues, pagodas are the cultural component of the resort. And you can improve your health in local mud baths and thermal baths. Nha Trang has a lot of European youth, decent clubs with trendy DJs, and a good selection of inexpensive alcohol. A few disadvantages: most hotels are on the second line; Locals come to the city beach, which is used by most tourists, in the late afternoon; after work, they like to relax here with their children. And in the summer months there are a lot of jellyfish near the shore.

Phan Thiet

The complete opposite of Nha Trang. Relaxed, democratic, inexpensive. Most of the hotels are two- or three-story cottages on the shore, comfortably hidden in palm groves. Here everyone smiles at each other, there is no crowd on the beaches, only the sea, the sun and a light, fresh breeze. If flip-flops (aka “flip-flops”), shorts and a white Panama hat are your style of relaxation, but you want to forget about the dress code at least for a while, this is definitely the place for you. Tourists come with children because it is inexpensive, sandy beaches and the entrance to the water is gentle. Couples find romantic sunsets and time to be alone in Phan Thiet. Lovers of large portions of seafood with ice-cold beer will find relaxation here, and local masseuses will make you see “the sky in diamonds” with their little hands. There are no particularly interesting attractions in Phan Thiet and the surrounding area. Tourists tired of the sun prefer to dilute their idle lying on the sand with water sports. And the downside is perhaps the only one. From the nearest airport in Ho Chi Minh City, it will take 5-6 hours to get to the resort by bus or taxi.

Mui Ne

A neighbor of Phan Thiet, this resort is loved by outdoor enthusiasts. Thanks to the constant wind, there is an ideal wave for surfers and kiters and several dozen specialized schools with professional instructors. Prices are tolerable: an hour of windsurfing costs about $50, kitesurfing costs $70. Many speak Russian, and there are several establishments where you will be treated to borscht and dumplings. True, prices at the resort are higher than in Phan Thiet, again thanks to the large number of our tourists. On the central street of Mui Ne you will find spas and massage parlors, cafes and souvenir shops.

Phu Quoc

An island resort in the very south of the country, in the Gulf of Thailand, just 15 km from the coast of Cambodia. Considering the size of the island (the largest island in Vietnam is the size of Singapore), there is plenty of room to expand here. Active tourists choose trekking through the jungle, kayaking and canoeing, walks through numerous gardens and parks, and excursions to pearl factories. And diving in coastal waters is considered the most interesting and inexpensive in the country. But the main natural wealth of the island is its luxurious sandy beaches, stretching for many kilometers. There are still very few tourists on the island, although the infrastructure is rapidly developing. Hotels, casinos, golf courses, shopping and entertainment complexes are being built, and a new airport has appeared. But today it is still a calm, clean and still inexpensive resort. There is no better place for a quiet family or romantic holiday in Vietnam.

Vung Tau

A popular family resort 130 km from Ho Chi Minh City. It is almost as large and famous as Nha Trang, but there is no vibrant nightlife here. But in the evening you can while away the time in bars with live music, which is very rare for Vietnam. The beaches are wide, sandy, and restaurants and guest houses are now open in the former villas of the French aristocracy. The choice of hotels is also decent, for every taste and budget. Buddhist temples, pagodas, parks, a former royal residence, caves and underground tunnels - there is where to walk and what to see. There are two disadvantages: petty theft on the beaches and the presence of oil drilling platforms in the water area.

Con Dao

“Let’s catch up and overtake Thai Phuket!” – this is roughly how one can voice the ambitions of the Vietnamese tourism authorities on the islands of this archipelago in the South China Sea. The first description of the islands belongs to Marco Polo, and Con Son (the old name of Con Dao) received its notorious fame thanks to the most terrible prison for political prisoners in Vietnam. Today it is a young resort with beautiful beaches and the best Six Senses hotel complex. Most of the island is occupied by a National Park, with many interesting dive sites and fishing spots.

Dalat

A popular international mountain resort in the south of the country, 300 km from Ho Chi Minh City. These places are reminiscent of the French Alps with their mild climate and natural beauty. And it was built during the French colonization of Indochina as a mountain refuge from the sweltering heat. It is cooler here than on the coast, and daytime temperatures, even in the hottest summer months, do not exceed 25 °C, and at night drop to a comfortable 15 °C. From November to April is the dry season, it is better to come at this time. Dalat can be compared to Ubud in Balinese. Here are the best spas and massage parlors in the country, and also offer several options for treatment and healing using traditional oriental methods. These are acupuncture, Vietnamese herbal massage, Indian massage, Tibetan practices of facial and body massage with warm basalt stones. And Dalat has the best themed restaurants serving Vietnamese and French cuisine. As souvenirs, tourists buy the famous Luwak coffee (a palm marten has already feasted on its beans), artichoke tea, ceramic dishes inlaid with mother-of-pearl, and premium quality silk products. It’s logical to combine Dalat with a holiday on the beaches of Nha Trang and a few nights in Ho Chi Minh City.

Danang and Hoi An

The most popular seaside resorts in Central Vietnam. The best season for a beach holiday is March and April. Da Nang has a modern international airport, the city is the fourth largest and the industrial center of Vietnam. Nevertheless, it is very picturesque, there are several good beaches nearby, including the famous China Beach - a place for youth hangouts and surfing stations. And 40 km away is the cozy town of Hoi An with a huge number of temples, pagodas, art salons, silk and souvenir shops. This is a museum city; 844 historical monuments are officially registered in it. Here you should try authentic Vietnamese cuisine and inexpensively replenish your summer wardrobe with handmade silk items, literally sewn in front of you. The ancient imperial capital of the country, the city of Hue, is a place of pilgrimage for tourists, history buffs and adventurers a la Indiana Jones, located a few hours away by car from Da Nang.

Halong and Haiphong

Halong Bay is a very beautiful and unusual place in northern Vietnam. From Hanoi it takes 3-4 hours (150 km) by bus or taxi. If you've seen James Cameron's film Avatar, the cliffs of Ha Long will remind you of the floating boulders of the planet Pandora. Only in Ha Long do they strangely stick out from the turquoise waters of the bay. The best way to spend a few days in Ha Long is on board a wooden cruise ship. So you can swim to your heart's content in warm and clear water, visit the most beautiful and interesting places, buy authentic souvenirs in a floating village, go down into mysterious caves on the shore and take the best selfies of your life. And don’t forget to try the local delicacy – sweet and sour fish baked in sugar. Ha Long is also famous as the filming location for the films “Indochina” starring Catherine Deneuve and “Tomorrow Never Dies” with Pierce Brosnan as James Bond. Haiphong is a cozy resort town not far from Ha Long. It is reminiscent of Hanoi twenty years ago with its clean flower-filled boulevards, colonial houses and leisurely pace of life. In addition to good shopping, the city has many temples, inexpensive restaurants, and a decent zoo. The proximity to Hanoi makes it easy to visit Halong and Haiphong in one trip, along with a few days' stop in the capital.

Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City

A description of the resorts will be incomplete without mentioning the main cities of Vietnam, which are usually visited by almost all tourists, because they are also the air gates of the country. These cities are definitely worth attention and at least a short introductory visit.

Hanoi is the capital of the country. This city will not leave anyone indifferent: old French houses are surrounded by greenery, and two steps around the corner there are ancient temples. Halt a rickshaw and ride along the city boulevards, and in the evening catch a performance at the Theater on the Water. Have dinner at a national restaurant, and the next morning go take a photo at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, look into the Temple of Literature and be amazed at the elegance of the One Pillar Pagoda and throw a coin into the Lake of the Returned Sword. And if you have time and energy left, go for a while to the mountains to the former French resort of Sapa. In one day in Sapa you can feel all four seasons, enjoy the natural beauty, see the unique Tafin Underwater Palace and the Thac Bak Silver Waterfall. And the bravest and most resilient will be able to climb the highest peak of Indochina, Mount Fansipan (3,143 m).

Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon, as locals and American tourists habitually call it, is the main city of South Vietnam. Saigon is interesting during the day and does not sleep at night. Colonial buildings from the last century coexist peacefully with skyscrapers, shopping centers and office buildings. You'll be impressed by the former Presidential Palace, and you can buy interesting finds from local designers on Dong Hoi Boutique Street. Military history buffs will be interested in descending into the guerrilla tunnels of Cu Chi, while families with children will appreciate a river cruise along the Mekong with lunch and a visit to a snake nursery. And in the evening it’s so nice to admire the bright lights and life boiling below, while sipping a cocktail or cool beer at the hotel’s rooftop bar. And with renewed vigor, go in search of “adult” night adventures after an invigorating foot massage. In terms of the number and density of bars, discos, and entertainment on the edge, Saigon is not inferior to Bangkok.

Until recently, Phu Quoc was considered inaccessible: until 2012 there was not even an international airport here, and the first direct flights from Russia started only in October 2017.

The reason why one of the most beautiful Vietnamese islands remained off the tourist route is quite simple: for many years it was a disputed territory between Vietnam and Cambodia and passed from one state to another. Now the political uncertainty is over and there is no doubt that in a couple of years Phu Quoc will become one of the most popular destinations. Therefore, if you want to experience cleanliness, tranquility and a clear sea, you should not postpone your trip. It seems that very soon there will be no less tourists here than in popular Nha Trang. In the meantime, on the paradise island they carefully preserve traditions (in some settlements matriarchy reigns) and observe customs that may seem, at least, strange to a European person. Just look at the ritual of eating a snake’s heart - according to tradition, a man must eat it raw while the heart is still beating. It is believed that it strengthens the immune system like no other remedy.

Everything you wanted to know about the Vietnamese

If you want to learn a few words in Vietnamese, be prepared for the fact that it will not be easy. Vietnamese is a tonal language, which means that not only sounds are of great importance, but also the intonation with which they are pronounced. The same syllable with a neutral, rising or falling intonation will have completely different meanings - an unpleasant surprise for many foreigners who carefully pronounce local words. It is not surprising that the Vietnamese, who have been accustomed to distinguishing the slightest nuances of intonation since childhood, have excellent hearing. It's no surprise that one of the most favorite pastimes here is karaoke. They can be found at almost every step - in shopping centers, markets, on the streets. And at any time of the day you will see Vietnamese selflessly singing inside.

How to get around?

You will hardly see cars here. The fact is that taxes on the purchase of a personal car in Vietnam are a total of three times higher than the price of the car itself, so the local population travels exclusively on bikes. Officially, people aged 16 and older are allowed to drive mopeds, but the police do not enforce the rules too closely. So on the street you can easily meet 12-year-old drivers, and in villages children start driving bikes even earlier. Often there are “family” vehicles, when a mother and two or three children are placed on a bike. Although the situation on the roads of Phu Quoc Island cannot be compared with what is happening in big cities, the traffic here is quite dense and, most importantly, chaotic. Accidents happen quite often, and the main danger for European tourists is the cute Vietnamese habit of stopping without warning right in the middle of the road to talk on the phone, greet a friend or take a little rest.

Beaches: Fukuoka's main treasure

The beaches in Phu Quoc are truly some of the most beautiful in Vietnam. If you like secluded wild places where there is not a soul around, here you can easily find a deserted bay even at the height of the high season. Do you prefer well-equipped, comfortable beaches with restaurants right by the water? There are plenty of such options here too. The total length of snow-white sandy beaches is more than 150 km. The most popular and picturesque are Long Beach and Ong Lan, and for lovers of secluded corners - Bai Dai. To see the most beautiful bays, you should rent a scooter and go on an independent trip. The high season here lasts from November to April - at this time Fukuoka is quite dry, the water temperature rises to +27°, and the air warms up to + 29°.

What else to do?

In addition to a beach holiday, there are many opportunities here - from eco-trips to the tropical forest and trips to pearl farms to boat trips on yachts and snorkeling. We must not forget that Phu Quoc belongs to the category of nature reserves - the tropical forest here is preserved in its original form, and even five-star hotels of famous European chains are built so as not to harm nature. Therefore, wherever you go, amazingly beautiful nature awaits you. Here are a few places worth seeing.

Pearl farm. Perhaps this is the most popular excursion on the island, which almost every tourist goes on. There are three pearl farms in Fukuoka, and they are all located near Long Beach, in the southern part of the island. Employees explain how pearls are grown and clearly demonstrate the process by opening the shells and removing small pearl balls from them. There is also a store where you can buy pearls and various products made from them. If you are thinking about what souvenirs to bring, this is a great option.

Boat trip on a yacht. The size of the boat depends on the number of participants - they offer a variety of options for rent. You can go to the small islands that are located south or north of Fukuoka. You will be invited to fish, snorkel at picturesque reefs, and admire the beautiful views. The walk usually includes a traditional Vietnamese lunch and in some cases even alcoholic drinks. If you want to catch the best shots and enjoy snorkeling, go to sea as early as possible. By the middle of the day, the islands will be filled with tourists, and the water will become cloudy due to the peculiarities of local currents, and you will not be able to see the reefs properly.

Bai Sao Beach. It is located in a small bay and is famous for its snow-white sand and amazingly clear emerald water. If you want to take flawless shots for social networks that will make all your friends jealous, head here for a walk, swim and lunch at a seaside restaurant. Of course, you need to choose seafood!

Kayaking on the Cua Can River. You put on a life jacket, get into the kayak, get two oars and set off for a free swim along the river. You will be able to admire the floating houses, take a close look at traditional Vietnamese dwellings, even look through the windows and, of course, take the most beautiful shots.

Coconut prison. During the Vietnam War, more than 40 thousand prisoners were held here. The memorial makes a rather painful impression, but is popular: many Vietnamese come here to see part of history with their own eyes.

Ho Quoc Pagoda. The largest and most beautiful pagoda on the island. The sun plays on the red tiled roofs and quirky elements of the buildings. Gilding, fresh flowers, bright decorations and fruits - the atmosphere here is truly fabulous.

Park at the tranj waterfall. One of the best places to relax with the whole family. The park is decorated with images of all kinds of animals, gazebos, ponds, and even on the hottest day you can find a cool corner here.

Vinpearl Safari Park. Located near Long Beach, in the northwestern part of the island. The reserve covers an area of ​​380 hectares and is home to 150 species of rare animals. There is a wildlife park where you can ride in special cars, and an open-air zoo where primates, gibbons, lemurs, Asian elephants and antelopes live in the rainforest.

Amusement park Vinpearl Land. If you are going to Phu Quoc with children, this place is a must visit. A whole country of entertainment - attractions, a water park, an arcade, a dolphinarium, bowling alley and many cafes and themed restaurants. Adults and children will be delighted

What to try?

Of course, local seafood: there is a huge selection of fish, lobster, crab, squid, oysters, scallops and lobsters with signature fish sauce, which is produced in Fukuoka. A must-see on the program is the night market in Duong Dong, where you can try local dishes and choose fruits.

Where to stay?

The island has accommodation options of varying levels, from guesthouses to luxury hotels.

Vinpearl Resort Phu Quoc 5*. One of the largest and most comfortable hotels on the island. Private beach, luxurious spa and excellent restaurants.

Mariott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort and Spa. A designer hotel with an unusual interior and impeccable service.

Nam Nghi Phu Quoc. Located on the shores of the magnificent Mong Tai Cape. An almost ideal place for relaxation and quiet.

EpizodE Festival

Do you like music? When traveling to Vietnam, don't miss the Epizode festival, which is held in Phu Quoc in winter. Ideal beaches, free creative people and the opportunity to escape from everyday problems will make your vacation unforgettable.

How to get there?

In October 2017, Royal Flight launched convenient direct flights from Moscow and Yekaterinburg.

Vietnam is home to many paradise islands. Some of them are very famous, like Phu Quoc and Cat Ba, while others are still hidden gems that need to be discovered.

If you love nature, be sure to visit each of these top 10 paradise islands in Vietnam at least once in your life

Phu Quoc island

When talking about the beautiful Vietnamese islands, people always remember Phu Quoc first. Here you can enjoy fresh air, a calm atmosphere, a cool sea breeze, away from the noise of everyday life. Crystal clear sea, white sand, gentle sun and green coconut palms will always delight you.

Nam Du island archipelago

Nam Du promises to be a very hot holiday destination this summer thanks to its clear blue water and shady coconut palms along the sandy shore. It is especially convenient to get here from Ho Chi Minh City. The cost of the entire trip will be no more than VND 2 million.

While on the island, wake up a little early, hire an xe ôm (motorcycle with driver) for VND 80,000 and take a trip to the lighthouse. From here you can admire all the beauty of the paradise island of Nam Du, discover the most beautiful views and take stunning photos of your trip to this island.

Con Dao island

Con Dao is located at a distance of about 179 km from Vung Tau, 230 km from Ho Chi Minh City and 165 km from Can Tho.

The island is renowned for its pristine beauty with white sandy beaches and surrounding mountains that create a tranquil landscape. Here you will get rid of fatigue, take your mind off work and relax after a long journey.

Binh Ba Island

For the last three years, if we talk about domestic tourism, the island of Binh Ba immediately comes to mind, which is famous not only for its landscapes, but also for its culinary richness that can captivate the heart of any traveler.

There are many beaches on Binh Ba. Of the seven most popular, only three can be reached by motorcycle. These are Nom, Chuong and Nha Cu. Nom Beach is very wide and sandy. You can sometimes find corals on it.

Most locals and tourists swim here because the sea is very clean.

Chuong Beach is about 30 minutes from the pier. This is the only beach on the island where you can see the sunset.

There are a lot of sea urchins on Nha Cu Beach, so watch your feet while swimming to avoid getting hurt. However, this is why the beach is usually clean and deserted.

Binh Ba Island has more to offer than just blue seas, white sand and romantic scenery. It also attracts gourmets with its very original cuisine.

Don't forget to visit the local market in the morning where you will find the best vermicelli, noodles, pastries, pancakes, quaivaccake (patties made from thin wheat dough filled with shrimp, pork, fish sauce, salt and sugar) ... all dishes are incredibly tasty and affordable .

The island is located in Cam Ranh Bay near the resort town of Nha Trang. A deep-sea ship repair base of strategic importance is located in this area. Therefore, access to the island is difficult for tourists. Not only for foreigners, but, often, depending on the season, for locals too.

Also, this island is called Lobster Island, due to the abundance of restaurants offering lobster raised on local home farms.

Binh Hung Island

The island is located near Binh Ba Island and is very popular among travelers. Just 5 minutes from the pier and you are there. Tourism on Binh Hung Island is not developed, so it is quite deserted.

Binh Hung also attracts with its Hon Chu Lighthouse, Stone Egg Beach and other tourist attractions. In addition, the island has a nice Kinh beach, with three changing colors. Crystal clear water and white sand will enchant those who come here.

Nuoc Ngot Beach is another place on the island that is definitely worth a visit. It gets its name from the stream located there, which flows inside the island and then flows into the sea.

The island is known for its white sand beaches and clear blue water. This place has not been touched by tourism, so it still retains its pristine appearance.

Hang Rai

Hang Rai Island is located south of Vinh Hy Bay, about 35 km from Phang Rang City. This is a region that is home to coral reefs and sea caves on the beach. Hangrai Island surprises tourists with its untouched beauty.

Anyone who had the opportunity to set foot on its shores will probably never be able to forget this land. Hangray is like a sleeping princess who is waiting in the forest for her prince so that he can wake her up. Hangrai gracefully rests on the mountainside, and the huge sea waves surprise tourists.

The island gives travelers an amazing feeling of being lost in a fairy tale of almost perfect beauty. Stones of different shapes create numerous large and small picturesque caves. The water on Hangrai Beach changes its color depending on the position of the sun in the sky. This is a great opportunity to satisfy your passion for those who love art.

Lyson

The island region of Lison is a wonder: beaches with emerald water, continuous white waves or the twinkling lighthouse. The virgin natural landscapes are amazingly beautiful.

Watching the sunrise from the top of Thoi Loi, taking photos of the sunset at To Vo Gate or enjoying the sunset are the most unforgettable experiences that no tourist on the island will miss. This is one of the most impressive places in Quang Ngai province.

Kulao Cham (Cu Lao Cham)

Located about 15 km from Cua Dai Beach in Hoi An, Kula O Cham is made up of eight different islands. Thanks to its calm and pristine paradise beauty, Kulaocham gradually won the hearts of many tourists who prefer sea travel. Just 15 minutes by canoe from Kuadai Beach, you will have the opportunity to admire the enchanting views of the island.

Dense forests, cool climate, wide beaches with stretching sands are the traditional landscape of Kulaocham.

The most wonderful thing to do here is to snorkel with your friends to explore the sea. Don't miss the opportunity to cycle along the road that winds through dunes and coastal fishing villages. Discover a jungle picnic amid greenery that will give you unforgettable moments.

Cat Ba

Cat Ba Island is made up of 367 individual islands, including Cat Ba Island itself, south of Ha Long Bay, off the coast of Hai Phong. The climate of Cat Ba is magnificent, fresh and perfect for a beach holiday.

Most tourists come to Cat Ba to swim. Beaches Cat Co 1 and Cat Co 2 are two spacious beaches with a gently sloping sandy entrance to the water, which many people love.

If you want to explore the island further, hire a boat to visit Lan Ha Bay and swim on the sandy beaches in the bay, where the sea water is clear, there is plenty of space and it is not crowded.

Cat Ba is famous for its fresh seafood dishes such as sam, lobster, snapper, squid,... You can taste them at local restaurants located in the Cat Ba market area. The prices are clearly marked there.

The climate here is quite cool. The average temperature on the island is only 25 degrees Celsius. The island has many beautiful beaches and virgin forests. Cat Ba is an amazing place not only for relaxation, but also an ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts.

Koto (Co To)

The Koto archipelago consists of more than fifty large and small islands. This is one of the best island resorts.

Coto Island was recently opened to tourism and therefore does not have high-end hotels, luxury restaurants or entertainment.

However, Koto attracts thousands of travelers every year who come to the island to explore the wildlife and interact with the friendly local people.

And it’s simply impossible to resist the varied menu of fresh seafood typical of this island.