Tucked away in the beautiful corner of Southeast Asia lies Vietnam.  Known for its rich cultural heritage, Vietnam offers an exciting, yet beautiful getaway for individuals looking for a serene place to enjoy their vacation. As bustling as it’s beautiful, this country makes a great destination for every type of traveler and budget. People looking for adventure and or a relaxing time at the beach find that Vietnam provides an unforgettable experience. There are different travel agencies that provide affordable Vietnam tour packages.

Here are some more reasons to visit Vietnam.

1. Spectacular landscape
Unknown to many, Vietnam is a hidden gem that only people who’ve visited are able to tell. For the historically astute people, this country has beautiful caves like Phong Nha Ke Bang, Halong Bay and Sapa that are all known for their breathtaking beauty. The French style villas situated next to Pine forest provide incredible scenery.

2. Affordability
If you are looking for an awesome travel destination and you are strapped for cash, Vietnam would be an excellent alternative. Plenty of flights on Heathrow-Saigon charge $700. Flying in from neighboring countries such as Thailand and Singapore is much cheaper.  Vietnam travel agencies provide Vietnam tour packages for different budgets. Most of the 5 star hotels offer affordable rates that are below $100. What’s more, the country has plenty of mini hotels and guesthouses that are comfortable and clean for as little as $10 a night. You can also choose a self-catering house or stay with a local family if you’re more adventurous.

After getting to Vietnam and finding a great place to stay, you definitely need to see the sights. You can hire a car with a chauffeur for $50 a day. A bus ride will only cost you $7 or you can take a taxi for around a dollar. Flights from Saigon to Phu Quoc or Hoi An average at around $80. For the more adventurous, you can rent a motorbike for $7 a day.

3. Hospitable and friendly locals
Just like most South East Asian countries, Vietnam has friendly and hospitable locals who are always kind and welcoming.  People from Hoi An, are known for their honesty while those from Hue are elegant and loyal. Farmers in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam are also hospitable and will welcome you by smiles.

4. Mouth-Watering Cuisines
 While you may have tasted some Vietnamese food in New York, Bourgogne of Pair or in Toronto, nothing beats the authenticity of food served in Vietnam. Vietnamese food varies depending on the regions although fresh vegetables are a staple in any place you decide to visit. You can find plenty of sea food in Da Nang and Nha Trang at afford prices. The sea food is caught in the morning and served during dinner. Furthermore, you can sample some street food on the sidewalks. Favorites include the bun cha and noodle soup.

5. Historical heritage and culture
You’ll find grand colonial architecture in cities like Hoi Chi Minh and Hanoi. The Hoi Chi Minh Mausoleum provides visitors with the opportunity to experience the repressive force of the communist apparatus. The mausoleum was named after a beloved Vietnam leader who led the country into independence. The stories of survivors who experienced the aftermath of the Vietnam War is apparent too in the monuments and museums. Visit the old town and get to see the Chinese-inspired shop houses and winding lanes with

6. Beautiful beaches
While most people only think of Cambodia and Thailand as countries with clear water and white sands, you’ll be surprised to learn that Vietnam boasts of equally beautiful beaches ln towns such as Mui Ne and Nha Trang. Less known beaches such as Doc are also hidden treasures.

7. Famous Coffee
Being the second biggest producer of Coffee in the world, Vietnam is known for its sweet and thick coffee. You can have your coffee iced with condensed milk, plain or with egg froth. The civet coffee or Kopi Luwak is known for its legendary status as the coffee berries are collected from the Asian palm. When blended, these coffee beans provide an excellent brew guaranteed to make your stay in Vietnam memorable.

8. Fresh supplies market
If you enjoy going to the market, you’ll find Vietnam amazing thanks to the bustling local markets. Locals shop for fresh vegetables in the morning. You’ll also find handicrafts, accessories and clothes. While in Ho Chi Minh City, you can check out the famous Ben Thanh Market.

9. Traditional festivals
The rich tradition and history are a great influence to the festivals organized all year round in Vietnam. Tet holiday celebrates love for one another and their ancestors, The Lunar New Year is celebrated by making a chung cake over some fire and gossip. The buffalo lighting festival is celebrated in Hai Phong and the winning buffalo is killed and presented to the gods.

10. Easy immigration process
Previously, getting a visa to Vietnam was stressful and time consuming. However, new regulations provide an easier way to acquire a visa either at the embassy or upon arrival. Travel companies offering Vietnam tour packages provide an easy online application. Once you’ve applied for an approval letter, it only take 2 days to have the visa letter emailed to you. If you opt to go to the embassy, this will only take you 3-5 days.

11. Great infrastructure
Vietnam has grown over the years and now visitors can easily access the remote areas thanks to the improved infrastructure

12. Safe and Friendly
There is a huge misconception that Vietnam is a war-torn country that is not peaceful. However, this country is safe and the Vietnamese are friendly and welcoming.

13. Amazing sites of the world
If you are looking for a country that offers a whole package in one, you need to visit Vietnam. You can sample the best luxury resorts, stunning beaches, world heritage sites, sanctuaries, museums, parks and more. Vietnam has stunning hills and valleys.

14. Ideal location for lovers
Hanoi and Hoan Kiem Lake are great locations for lovers. These are also great spots for wedding photography. You can take a boat ride with your spouse on the Ha Long Bay.

15. Great location
Being situated in Southeast Asia, Vietnam is close to neighboring countries like China, Laos and Cambodia.

Vietnam is a great destination for every traveler. Hanoi was ranked 4th by TripAdvisor as one of the top destinations in the world. If you are looking for a cheap, yet adventurous location for your next vacation, you should include Vietnam as your 2016 destination.  There are travel agencies that provide Vietnam tour packages to ensure that your stay in Vietnam is smooth.