Vietnam holiday is the first choice for many people in UK. This is a country of diverse culture, beautiful people and natural landscapes that feel seemingly untouched. Vietnam is based in Southeast Asia and borders Cambodia, longer than it is wide; its approx 2000 miles in length North to South.
Vietnam sits prettily alongside the East Sea and inland it is kissed by the Mekong River and Red River.
A country that offers a different cultural experience as you travel along the path from one tip of the island to the other. South Vietnam rests alongside the border of Cambodia, separated by the vast Mekong River.
South Vietnam has a mirage of attractions to see. The best time of year to visit South Vietnam is November to March, when it will be slightly cooler and not as wet.
Lets begin your journey at Phu Quoc Island. An island placed at the southernmost tip of Vietnam and known by tourists as a hidden treasure. Phu Quoc is a short ferry ride from the main island and has accommodation so you can extend your stay. A tour guide like Vivutravel will be able to arrange all of this for you, so you can enjoy the relaxation and embrace what Phu Quoc has to offer.
Phu Quoc offers the chance to see pepper fields, breathtaking waterfalls and you can even collect and buy pearls from locally caught oysters. It's a place for reflection and relaxation, graced with white beaches and warm clean waters.
Moving onto our next destination but staying close to the water, we introduce the wonderment of the Mekong River an area known as Mekong Delta. The Mekong Delta is a bustling and vibrant agricultural region, responsible for producing over a third of the countries annual food supply; from rice, coconut palms to fruit orchards and sugar canes, the cities nutrient rich soil means agriculture is at its heart.
Mekong Delta is a collection of a dozen small towns each offering floating markets, boat rides along the Mekong and a chance to eat some delicious freshly cooked cuisine bought from a floating restaurant.
Can Tho is the largest town, with accommodation and restaurants in plentiful supply. The Mekong Delta really is best explored with a local tour operator, Vivutravel will ensure you are introduced to all the best places for culture, food and even the best place to recharge your batteries before you head onto your next destination; The city!
Now you have relaxed, it's time for the colourful, hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon.
The name itself rolls off the tongue, exotic and intriguing. With its French inspired architecture, including a Notre Dame Basilica made entirely from French imported materials, the city offers a chance to experience some of the best of Vietnamese cuisine and culture.
An average population of 8 million people ensure this city always feels alive. Colourful streets offer the chance to haggle over locally made clothing and trinkets and enjoy local Vietnamese cuisine.
Markets are a big part of Vietnamese life and you will be spoilt for choice when visiting the city, markets are a chance not only to haggle and shop but to enjoy street food and embrace the best of the local culture. Shopping with locals is a fantastic experience.
If like most British people you love a good market then Ben Thanh Market is a must! Shop with the locals in the morning for spices, fresh fruits, coffee and in the evening explore the textiles, clothing and electronic goods. There is also street food a plenty; pho noodles, spring rolls and traditional Banh Xeo (crispy pancakes), breathe in the atmosphere and smells and embrace feeling like a local.
Cho Lon, also referred to as Binh Tay Market is situated on the edge of the city and is a great place to experience the buddhist culture and exquisite Chinese architecture. The market offers handmade trinkets, textiles and fresh fruits and spices, but is best known for its open air food court; graced with Chinese dishes; from steamed pork buns to traditional Chinese sausages, get ready to open your tastebuds and enjoy.
You are blessed with architecture all over the city and you will be astonished at the vastness and beauty of some of the buildings. With museums and memorials there is plenty of opportunity to escape the humid temperatures for a while and learn more about this fascinating city and its incredible history.
When you are in Ho Chi Minh City, do not forget to visit amazing Cu Chi tunnels to understand more about the Vietnam war which was over more than 40 years ago, but still having many lessons to learn.
Vietnam offers exceptional value for money; for very little you can experience adventures you would never be able to afford in England. Imagine waking up in a River lodge alongside the Mekong River or opening the doors of your beach hut onto white beaches lapped by a clear blue sea. All of this is possible on even the tightest budget.
South Vietnam is a heady mix of islands, beaches, cultural cities and of course the magic of the Mekong River, planning your journey can take time and research.
Choosing a tour is a great way to see the South of the island and ensure you are not missing out on any of its hidden secrets; using local knowledge and expertise means you will get the best out of the time you have to spend.
Vivutravel offers a huge range of experienced Vietnam tours and you can combine a tour with many other attractions the South has to offer. Tours can be tailor made to suit where you want to visit and their extremely helpful and knowledgeable tour guides will make your holiday one of the best times of your life.
An exceptional Vietnam tour operator with vast experience and knowledge, you will feel very safe in their hands. www.vivutravel.com
Vivutravel are a professional and friendly tour operator; from completing the initial enquiry form through to booking your chosen itinerary the experience will be straightforward and easy. With many customer reviews and accreditation you can be assured of their loyalty to you and your Vietnam holiday. Simply complete their online travel enquiry form and one of their expert travel consultants will be in touch to discuss your Vietnam adventure.
What are you waiting for? Bustle, beauty & rivers await.
Read more:
The UK guide to Vietnam