Thanks to a symphony of beeping motorbikes, buzzing street food and a constant caffeine high, Vietnam’s energy is electrifying. One of southeast Asia’s most vibrant countries is also one of its more affordable, giving wallet-conscious travellers an excellent alternative to nearby Thailand.
And as Thailand’s tourism surges – partly due to what’s been dubbed ‘the White Lotus effect’, travellers are increasingly looking east. This year, Vietnam marks 50 years since the end of the Vietnam War (known locally as the American War), with Saigon falling to communist-run North Vietnam on 30 April 1975. While the more popular tourist destinations like Hanoi, Phú Quốc and Hạ Long Bay still have plenty to offer, there are also lesser-known sights to explore from north to south where you’ll enjoy a quieter experience.
