Five things not to miss in Vietnam, from canyoning in Dalat to visiting Hoi An, all low cost. Come and read our five tips for a perfect trip to Asia.
Il Vietnam it is not a country that appears on the cover of a travel catalog as is the case for other countries in Southeast Asia. Surely you have heard of the Vietcong, you still have some school reminiscences on the division of the country (which became independent in 1945) and someone portrays it with green rice fields among which peasants with classic straw cone hats appear.
Who has the desire to venture to Vietnam instead he will discover that it is a country beyond all imagination. Despite the indelible signs of a war that has brought the entire country's economy to its knees, walking through its streets and talking to the locals we have encountered hospitality and genuineness in a crescendo of landscapes.
The country extends east of Indochinese peninsula, with a long-form "S" shape as if to protect the states adjacent to it. An unusual journey in a land that is still pure and simple, where it becomes customary to surrender to the innocent smile of its people.
Here are the 5 things to do in Vietnam.
Given that we had reserved for Vietnam only three weeks, before leaving, we were wondering with which one mezzo travel almost 2000 km from south to north and save time and costs. We have bought a Honda Win in Saigon, South Vietnam, for just over 250 euros which we sold in Hanoi at the end of the trip for about the same price. In addition to our goal, the motorcycle he gave us unique glimpses of Vietnam and wonderful chats in the most remote villages, always accompanied by delicious meals.
60 km north of Saigon don't miss the Cu Chi tunnel, a reticulate of underground tunnels where the Vietnamese fought and won the war against America. The visit, complete with a guide, is very dynamic. As a Vietnamese soldier, we entered underground tunnels and bypassed traps camouflaged with leaves.
For an adrenaline rush and a more intimate contact with nature, try the canyoning in Dalat. An aquatic playground where instead of phantom slides, we descended waterfalls and rock walls in double rope, crossed streams and tried free dives from 6 meters, and 11 for the more daring. An enchanting and uncontaminated landscape setting.
Continuing the crossing to the north, a mandatory stop is Hoi An. , a coastal town exactly halfway between Saigon and Hanoi. Although we were well advised to avoid tourist spots, Hoi An, UNESCO heritage, it amazed us. A magical atmosphere created by colored lanterns, classical music played through loudspeakers and period buildings that now house bistros, lounge bars and the characteristic tailors.
Le homestays, or stays in the homes of local people, are quite common in Vietnam. It is a great opportunity to avoid the highly touristy areas and immerse yourself in the habits of the place, eating exquisitely. The price varies from 5 to 10 euros for a room, including breakfast and sometimes even dinner. Often the family made dinner and then we ate together.
