Vietnam By Train 12 days

Highlights: Express Train experiences, Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, sea kayaking and snorkeling, charming Hoi An, Hue Imperial City, nice beaches, Nha Trang, My Son Sanctuary, boat cruises, Mekong Delta, Cu Chi Tunnels, Ho Chi Minh City.
Introduction: Most of our traveling will be done aboard the Reunification Express train, a fascinating and unforgettable way to view the unfolding landscape of Vietnam. We begin by discovering the attractions of the steamy southern city of Saigon, before taking the train to the beach resort city of Nha Trang, then to the remarkable ancient port town of Hoi An, etc. We finish our adventure in charming and graceful Hanoi.

Tour type: private - hard
Class: superior - deluxe
Duration: 12 days
Arrival/ Departure: Ho Chi Minh City/Hanoi or reverse.
Price: from USD1.105/person
Meals planned: B: breakfast; L: Lunch; D: Dinner
Group size: on request (2 - 16 persons)

Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City - Arrival (D)
Today, you are warmly welcomed at the airport in Ho Chi Minh city, also called Saigon. This is the largest city in Vietnam and the nation's economic capital. The metropolitan area Ho Chi Minh City and surrounding towns, is populated by more than 9 million.
If time permits, we will visit the bustling Cho Lon Market (Chinatown). This trip helps you view the city from another perspective and to see the abundance of fresh local produce that is such an important feature of Vietnamese cuisine. We will then enjoy the welcome dinner.
Overnight at hotel, Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 2: Ho Chi Minh - Mekong Delta (B, L)
The Mekong Delta (or the “Nine Dragon river delta”) is the region in southwestern Vietnam where the Mekong River approaches and empties into the sea through a network of distributaries. The Mekong delta region encompasses a large portion of southeastern Vietnam of 39,000 square kilometers. The size of the area covered by water depends on the season. A river cruise on the Mekong river is a great experience to watch the daily life of the locals.
We start at the hotel at 7:45am to drive to Tien Giang, on of the provinces of Mekong Delta. Arrive in My Tho City. Take a boat ride to visit Con Phung Island with full of tropical fruit gardens. We will have chance to enjoy the fruit and Mekong folk songs performed by the local artists. The visit the most ancient pagoda in Mekong Delta - Vinh Trang. After lunch, we visit the Dong Tam Snake Farm before coming back to Ho Chi Minh City.
Overnight at hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 3: Cu Chi Tunnels - Nha Trang (B, L)
This morning, we head out to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels. Cu Chi is actually the name of the district which covers an extensive underground network (approximately 200 kilometers) of tunnels dug initially by the Viet Minh and later expanded by the Viet Cong. The tunnels contained hospitals, plus accommodation and schools, and were used extensively for refuge and storage and also utilized as a military base for the Viet Cong close to Saigon. The 1968 Tet Offensive was launched from Cu Chi with surprising effect. A section of the tunnels has been widened to allow tourists to get a feel for what the life underground must have been like (please note that this will be hot and sweaty and also a bit claustrophobic!).
Return to bustling Ho Chi Minh City. We explore Ho Chi Minh City’s grand boulevards, passing famous sites such as the former President’s Palace, the Old Saigon Post Office, the Notre Dame Cathedral. We will then transfer to the station for night train to Nha Trang.
Overnight on train (Soft sleeper berth in A/C cabin).
Day 4: Nha Trang City (B, L)
Nha Trang is a coastal city and capital of Khanh Hoa province, on the South Central Coast of Vietnam. It is well known for its pristine beaches and excellent scuba diving and is fast becoming a popular destination for international tourists, attracting large numbers travelers. It is already very popular with Vietnamese tourists. Nha Trang Bay is widely considered as amongst the world's most beautiful bays. Tourists are welcome to participate in the Sea Festival, held biennially. Nha Trang was the site of the Miss Universe 2008 Pageant on July 14, 2008 and it will also host Miss World 2010.
On arrival in Nha Trang we transfer to the restaurant for breakfast. We will then visit the Po Nagar Cham Tower. The tower was constructed by the Cham in honor of Yang Ino Po Ngar, the mother of the kingdom and the Long Son pagoda with its enormous Buddha statue. After lunch, you are free to swim and relax on the beach or join many optional sea - sport activities available here.
Overnight at Hotel, Nha Trang.
Day 5: Nha Trang Islands and Snorkeling tour (B, L)
We spend a whole day to visit Nha Trang Bay. We start from your hotel to Cau Da port. Tri Nguyen Aquarium on Mieu Island is the first place to visit, many sea species of Nha Trang/ Khanh Hoa province make a small ocean world there. We will then cruise to the Mun Island, which is the best island for snorkeling. Here, the snorkeling trip help you see lots of lives colorful corals and fish. We visit a fishing village and taking a fresh lunch at the island. On the way back you will be able to see caves in which the sea swallows make their nest.
Overnight in Nha Trang.
Day 6: Nha Trang - Da Nang - Hoi An (train) (B)
Hoi An was originally a Cham port town, but has been influenced down the centuries by a myriad of traders from various cultures. There is a distinctly Chinese appearance with pagodas and assembly halls scattered along the small streets. Hoi An was once a bustling port in centuries gone by, before the river silted up. Today it is a delightful backwater town with an air of liveliness about it. The tranquility and charm of Hoi An, coupled with its low tiled houses, makes it one of the most delightful places to visit in Vietnam. It is a constant favorite of our travelers and staff.
We leave Nha Trang early in the morning for Da Nang by train. Upon arrival to Danang, we transfer to Hoi An. We visit the famous Cham sculptures museum with its collection of relics from the Cham Kingdom on the way. We continue to Hoi An ancient town, the port town since the 10th century. Today we take a walking tour around the town. We visit some old merchants’ houses, the 400 year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, and the colorful local markets.
Free to swim or relax at the Cua Dai Beach.
Overnight at Hotel, Hoi An.
Day 7: Hoi An - My Son Sanctuary (B)
In the morning, we drive to visit My Son. The My Son temple complex is regarded one of the foremost Hindu temple complexes in Southeast Asia and is the foremost heritage site of this nature in Vietnam. It is often compared with other historical temple complexes in Southeast Asia, such as Borobodur of Java in Indonesia, Angkor Wat of Cambodia, Bagan of Myanmar and Ayutthaya of Thailand. As of 1999, My Son has been recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site. At its 23rd meeting, UNESCO accorded Mỹ Sơn this recognition pursuant to its criterion C (II), as an example of evolution and change in culture, and pursuant to its criterion C (III), as evidence of an Asian civilization which is now extinct.
You are free in the afternoon to browse for souvenirs, tailor made clothes or hire a bicycle to ride to the nearby Cua Dai beach.
Overnight at Hotel, Hoi An.
Day 8: Hoi An - Hue (B)
Hue became the name of Vietnam's most well known ancient capital because many historical buildings are located in Hue, largely a legacy from its time as a capital of the Nguyen dynasty (1802-1945). Inside the city are the Royal Citadel, Flag Tower, Royal Palace, and Royal Tombs. Hue’s Forbidden Purple City was once reserved for the royal family; it was severely damaged during the War. Outside the city is the religious site known as Nam Giao Hill, or Heaven’s Altar.
After breakfast we travel across the spectacular Hai Van pass to Hue, the ancient Imperial city of the Nguyen Kings. On arrival, we transfer to our hotel and have a short break for lunch before head on to the see the Tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, with its lotus-filled lake and central pavilion and the simple and serene Tomb of Khai Dinh are the most interesting.
Overnight at Hotel, Hue.
Day 9: Hue - Hanoi (B, L)
This morning we cruise on the Perfume River. The Perfume River is 30km long and that is from Bang Lang to Thuan An estuary. The River is gorgeous sight from its basis, and runs among peaks, jungle trees and plants. The river brings with it fragrances of tropical flora. Probably that's why the name of the river has been the Perfume River. We disembark the boat and visit the 16th century Thien Mu pagoda and the impressive tomb of Emperor Minh Mang. We have few hours for shopping at Dong Ba market before transferring to Hue railway station to catch train to Hanoi late afternoon.
Overnight on train (Soft sleeper berth in A/C cabin)
Day 10: Hanoi city (B, L)
Hanoi is the second largest city of Vietnam with total population of over 6 million people. As the capital of Vietnam for almost a thousand years, The enchanting Hanoi is considered to be one of cultural centers of Vietnam, where most of Vietnamese dynasties had left behind their imprint. Even though some relics have not survived through wars and time, the city still has many interesting cultural and historic monuments for visitors and residents alike.
We arrive in Hanoi early morning and transfer to the restaurant for breakfast. We will then spend a day touring Hanoi. We begin with a visit to the President Ho Chi Minh's mausoleum and residence. We also visit the famous One Pillar Pagoda nearby. Leave the President's complex, we continue to visit the Temple of Literature which was the first university in Vietnam and was built in 1070. Then we go to the Museum of Ethnology, which is an excellent museum containing the ethnic costumes of the various minorities of Vietnam, as well as relics, tools and even full size replicas of their homes and buildings. We take a walking tour around the Restored Sword Lake, and around the Old Quarter before enjoy Water Puppet show.
Overnight at Hotel, Hanoi.
Day 11: Hanoi - Ha Long bay - Hanoi (B, L)
Halong Bay has twice been recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage Area for its exceptional scenic beauty and outstanding geological and geomorphic values. Thousands of islands emerging uneven in the fanciful waves look strong and magnificent but also mild and vivid. Amidst these islands, we feel as if we were astray in a petrified legendary world.
You are picked at the hotel at 8am to start the ride to Halong Bay. Upon arrival, take 04 hours boat cruise on the bay. Boat will stop at Thien Cung cave and Dau Go cave. Seafood lunch is provided. After lunch, we return to Hanoi.
Overnight at hotel in Hanoi.
Day 12: Hanoi - Departure (B)
Free at leisure until transfer to airport for departure. Trip ends.
Readmore: Vietnam By Train 12 days

Vietnam Cycling Tour 14 days

Highlights: Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, sea kayaking and snorkeling, trekking and cycling, National Parks, charming Hoi An Port Town, handicraft villages, Hue Imperial City, Nha Trang, nice beaches, boat cruises, Ho Chi Minh City.
Introduction: This trip takes you from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City in 14 days. Combining culture, history and cycling trips will offer you a very close view of the locals. Starting in the beautiful city of Hanoi we visit the Old Quarter on cyclo, enjoy traditional water puppet show. We will then visit the Cuc Phuong National Park by bike, enjoy a cruise among the awesome limestone cliffs and clear waters of Ha Long Bay. We catch the flight to the old Imperial capital of Hue to see the treasures of the old Nguyen dynasty, the Museum and Citadel, and take a boat trip on the Perfume River and cycle to visit the city. Then, driving via Da Nang, we visit the Beaches and Marble Mountain before reaching historic Hoi An. We also visit traditional handicraft village by bike . We relax in Nha Trang with cruise to Island for swimming and snorkeling. Our sightseeing in Ho Chi Minh City includes the colonial buildings of Old Saigon and 1970's kitsch of the Reunification Hall, Chinatown and others if time permits. We finally  visit Cat Tien National Park. Trekking and cycling to the park center and spending a night there would give you an unforgettable experience.

Tour type: private - hard
Class: Superior - Deluxe
Duration: 14 days
Arrival/ Departure: Hanoi / Ho Chi Minh City or reverse.
Price: from 1244USD/person
Meals planned: B: breakfast; L: Lunch; D: Dinner
Group size: on request (2 - 8 person)
Day 1: Hanoi arrival (D)
Hanoi is the second largest city of Vietnam with total population of over 6 million people. As the capital of Vietnam for almost a thousand years, The enchanting Hanoi is considered to be one of cultural centers of Vietnam, where most of Vietnamese dynasties had left behind their imprint. Even though some relics have not survived through wars and time, the city still has many interesting cultural and historic monuments for visitors and residents alike.
Your trip starts today with the warm welcome at the airport from your arrival in Hanoi. We will take a guided half - day tour of Hanoi, visiting Temple of Literature, One Pillar Pagoda. We will then enjoy 1 hour on cyclo to visit the Old Quarter before the unique performance of Water Puppet show and have dinner at the local restaurant.
Overnight at hotel, Hanoi.
Day 2: Hanoi - Hoa Lu - Cuc Phuong (B, L)
Transfer out of Ha Noi to Hoa Lu (2.5 hrs). Visit the historic capital of Viet Nam and the famous ancient temples of Le and The Dinh Dynasties. Cycle for an hour on picturesque quiet roads through villages, rice fields, rivers and rocky outcrops to Tam Coc for lunch.
Cycling on a country road takes you to Sunny Wharf, a small dock, for a sampan boat journey in the heart of “Inland Ha Long Bay”. Take in the beauty of the karsts formations as you pass along their base and row into one of the many caves carved through the limestone. We will then transfer to Cuc Phuong National Park.
Overnight at the cottage in Cuc Phuong Park.
Day 3: Cuc Phuong - Hanoi (B, L)
Today we will cycle around the park to visit the “Cave of Early Man” and the Endangered Primate Rescue Center. Keep trekking in the jungle to discover the wild life and admire some rare trees reach 1,000 years of age before coming back to Hanoi.
Overnight at the hotel in Hanoi.
Day 4: Hanoi – Halong Bay (B, L, D)
Halong Bay has twice been recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage Area for its exceptional scenic beauty and outstanding geological and geomorphic values. Thousands of islands emerging uneven in the fanciful waves look strong and magnificent but also mild and vivid. Amidst these islands, we feel as if we were astray in a petrified legendary world.
8:00: You are picked up at the hotel. You can leave your luggage behind at the hotel in Hanoi and pack an overnight bag.
12.15 pm: Arrive in Halong city, board our junk boat for an overnight journey. Sip on a refreshing welcome drink upon check in before you begin the cruise through the bay. Feast on a delicious lunch as you cruise among hundreds of islets (Dinh Huong islet, Ga Choi – Fighting Cock islet, Dog islet, Finger islet, etc.) to discover untouched pockets of Halong Bay and visit Sung Sot cave, one of the most imposing grottos of the Bay. You will then go kayaking from the Soi Sim beach to Luon Cave to enjoy the quite atmosphere of the bay.
Overnight on Halong Bay Junk.
Day 5: Halong Bay – Hanoi (Brunch)
7.00am: For early risers complimentary tea, coffee, fruit and cake are served. Enjoy Sunrise on the Bay. Continue to explore the Bay. Sail past rock formations such as Man’s Head islet, Tortoise islet, Butterfly cave, Lion islet, Bai Tho mountain, enjoy the tranquil scenery as the boat meanders its way through the bay on the way back to Halong city, etc. Arrange your luggage and do the check out onboard at around 9.00 am. Enjoy a wholesome brunch as your boat weaves through strange-shaped limestone rock formations.
11.45am: Arrive back at Halong city for disembarkation where your driver waits to take you back to your Hanoi, on the way call on a ceramic village to see craftsmen do their works. Free time for your personal activities and dinner.
Overnight at Hotel, Hanoi.
Day 6: Hanoi - Hue city (B, L)
Hue is located in Thua Thien prefecture and is in the central part of Vietnam, 660 km from Hanoi and 1080 km from Saigon. Hue became the name of Vietnam's most well known ancient capital because many historical buildings are located in Hue, largely a legacy from its time as a capital of the Nguyen dynasty (1802-1945). Inside the city are the Royal Citadel, Flag Tower, Royal Palace, and Royal Tombs. Hue’s Forbidden Purple City was once reserved for the royal family; it was severely damaged during the War. Outside the city is the religious site known as Nam Giao Hill, or Heaven’s Altar.
We will take the flight to Hue in the morning for full day cycling tour. Our visiting sites includes Old Imperial City, Flag Tower, Thien Mu Pagoda, Royal Tombs of Tu Duc and Khai Dinh. Our exciting day ends with romantic cruise on the Perfume River with Royal music on boat.
Overnight at hotel, Hue.
Day 7: Hue - Hoi An (B)
Hoi An was originally a Cham port town, but has been influenced down the centuries by a myriad of traders from various cultures. There is a distinctly Chinese appearance with pagodas and assembly halls scattered along the small streets. Hoi An was once a bustling port in centuries gone by, before the river silted up.
We travel by private vehicle from Hue to Da Nang - Journey south along Highway 1 past the Hai Van Pass and Lang Co. On the way to Hoi An, we stop in Lang Co, the village of the fishermen and then have bath in the beach. Visit Cham Museum, Marble Mountain. After the lunch, we depart for Hoi An. Here we will walk along visit the tranquility and charm of Hoi An. Our visiting sites includes: Ong Pagoda, Hoi An Museum, Japanese Covered Bridge, Tan Ky Old House, Assembly Hall of Cantonese Chinese Congregation.
Overnight at hotel, Hoi An.
Day 8: Hoi An - cycling (B, L)
The 'Traditional Cam Nam & Hoi An's Scenery Tour' is the most popular bicycle tour for tourists who like biking during the time in Hoi An. It is a combination of two different tours: Traditional Cam Nam and Hoi An's Scenery. During this various tour, our guide will take you to the most beautiful places on Cam Nam Island and the rural area north of Hoi An. Brief information about the culture, traditions, the daily life and other interesting information of local people here.
On Cam Nam Island you can see small handicrafts, such as: steaming of rice paper, repairing of fishing nets, cooking of corn and more. We will take you to a local shipyard on An Hoi where wooden fishing boats are still being made in the traditional way by local craftsmen. After this we will visit the picturesque Long Tuyen Pagoda. The only pagoda in Vietnam with a nine-floor 'Lotus' tower on the roof.
This tour ends with a peaceful cycling-tour through the countryside of Hoi An. We are cycling along the bright green rice fields, shrimp farms and fishponds. You will see water buffalo's, endless prospects and colorful sceneries...
Overnight at the hotel in Hoi An.
Day 9: Hoi An – Da Nang - Nha Trang (Flight) (B, L)
Nha Trang is a coastal city and capital of Khanh Hoa province, on the South Central Coast of Vietnam. It is well known for its pristine beaches and excellent scuba diving and is fast becoming a popular destination for international tourists, attracting large numbers travelers. It is already very popular with Vietnamese tourists. Nha Trang Bay is widely considered as amongst the world's most beautiful bays. Tourists are welcome to participate in the Sea Festival, held biennially. Nha Trang was the site of the Miss Universe 2008 Pageant on July 14, 2008 and it will also host Miss World 2010.
We will take the flight to Nha Trang. This afternoon we will visit the Po Nagar Cham Tower. The tower was constructed by the Cham in honor of Yang Ino Po Ngar, the mother of the kingdom. After lunch, you are free to swim and relax on the beach or join many optional sea - sport activities available here.
Overnight at hotel, Nha Trang.
Day 10: Nha Trang Islands and Snorkeling (B, L)
We spend a whole day to visit Nha Trang Bay. We start from your hotel to Cau Da port. Tri Nguyen Aquarium on Mieu Island is the first place to visit, many sea species of Nha Trang make a small ocean world there. We will then cruise to the Mun Island, which is the best island for snorkeling. Here, the snorkeling trip help you see lots of lives colorful corals and fish. We visit a fishing village and taking a fresh lunch at the island. On the way back you will be able to see caves in which the sea swallows make their nest
Overnight at hotel, Nha Trang.
Day 11: Nha Trang - Ho Chi Minh City (Flight) (B, L)
Today, you will take the flight from Nha Trang to Ho Chi Minh city, also called Saigon. This is the largest city in Vietnam and the nation's economic capital. The metropolitan area Ho Chi Minh City and surrounding towns, is populated by more than 9 million.
We take a short city tour to the Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum and Notre Dame Cathedral. You will also admire the many beautiful French colonial buildings such as the main post office and the former Hotel de Ville (city hall). If time permits, we will visit the bustling Cho Lon Market (Chinatown). This trip helps you view the city from another perspective and to see the abundance of fresh local produce that is such an important feature of Vietnamese cuisine.
Overnight at the hotel, Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 12: Ho Chi Minh - Cat Tien National Park (B, L)
This park covers 74,000 Hectares of lowland forest and swamp approximately 100km (70miles) north east of Ho Chi Minh City and is home to numerous birds and mammals. One of Vietnams most important and largest National Parks. Supported by the WWF, projects include surveying the small population of Javan rhinoceros, that still exist in the area the last remaining population on main land. Other mammals include Elephant, Gaur and tiger. Many birds can be found, including such specialties as German's Peacock Pheasant, Bar-bellied Pitta and the rare endemic Orange-necked Partridge.
We will transfer out of the busy city by bus. We will then ride to a former volcanic crater, known as Lava tubes. We do a trekking to through the Reserved Core Area, See many kinds of hundreds of years old trees.
Overnight hotel/guest house in Cat Tien National Park.
Day 13: Cat Tien - Ho Chi Minh (B, L)
This morning, you are waken up by the nice songs of native birds. After having breakfast, we cycle and trek to see the Crocodiles swamp. We will then take bus ride back to HCM city.
Overnight at the hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 14: Ho Chi Minh City Departure (B)
You are free on the last day. If time permits, we suggest you to head out of town to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels. Cu Chi is actually the name of the district which covers an extensive underground network (approximately 200 kilometers) of tunnels dug initially by the Viet Minh and later expanded by the Viet Cong. The tunnels contained hospitals, plus accommodation and schools, and were used extensively for refuge and storage and also utilized as a military base for the Viet Cong close to Saigon. The 1968 Tet Offensive was launched from Cu Chi with surprising effect. A section of the tunnels has been widened to allow tourists to get a feel for what the life underground must have been like (please note that this optional tour is not included).
You will be transferred from the hotel to the airport for your flight out of Vietnam for your next destination. Tour ends.
Readmore: Vietnam Cycling Tour 14 days

Vietnam Weather - When to go?

From Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh is some 1600km which gives some indication of the size of the country. As a result the weather in Vietnam varies according to distinct climate zones. Due to regional climate differences there are no good or bad seasons to visit Vietnam. When one climate zone is wet and cold another is dry and warm.

For the purpose of this summary of Vietnam weather we'll consider the country as three separate areas:
NORTH VIETNAM
The North of Vietnam experiences cool, damp winters between November and April with temperatures in Hanoi falling to around 15°C. The summer months from May to October are hot and dry.
A pleasant time to visit is spring (March-April) or autumn (October-December). There are extremes in the Highlands as snow sometimes falls in the winter whilst the summer can see temperatures up around 40ºC. There is the possibility of typhoons between July and November.
See Hanoi Weather
When to Go?
The best time to visit the north of Vietnam is from September to December when it isn't so humid. The weather turns quite cold and wet in January and this continues until March. The humidity can prove oppressive from May to the start of September and there's a danger of flooding.
SOUTH VIETNAM
The South of Vietnam has a tropical climate with hot, humid conditions which makes sightseeing in Ho Chi Minh City very tiring for much of the year. The wet season is from May to November with June to August registering the highest rainfall figures. December to April tends to be very dry. Temperatures average around 25-30°C all year round with the hottest and most humid period from the end of February to May.
See Ho Chi Minh City Weather
When to Go?
December to April is the best time to visit the south of Vietnam. There are short downpours during the wet season from May to November but they tend to only last a short time so you can still enjoy a visit during these months (just go for lunch when you see the black clouds developing). The Mekong Delta can experience severe flooding during this period making travel very difficult.
CENTRAL VIETNAM
The Central Part of Vietnam experiences something in between the weather patterns of the north and south with the rainy season in summer. The central coast area is usually quite dry from May to October and wet from December to February. Highland areas can experience freezing conditions in winter. There is the possibility of typhoons between July and November.
When to Go?
December to March is a good time to visit the Central Highlands when conditions are usually dry and cool. We visited the region in late November when the weather was beautiful with fine, warm days and pleasant evenings. We had a few light showers as we headed north towards Hoi An. Along the central coast there is a rainy season from December to February. June to October tends to be very dry and hot.
CONCLUSION
If you're planning a trip to cover all of Vietnam the best time to visit is from September to December or from March to April.
Readmore: Vietnam Weather - When to go?

Vietnam Geography

Viet Nam is located in the southeastern extremity of the Indochinese peninsula, bordering China to the North, Laos and Cambodia to the West, the South China Sea and the Pacific Ocean to the East and the South. It is an S-shaped long strip of land, stretching from 23°23’ to 8°27’ North latitude.

The country has a total length of 1,650 km stretching from the northernmost point to the southernmost point and its east-to-west width is 500 km at the widest part and 50 km at the narrowest. Accordingly, Vietnam’s territory is very diverse. It encompasses a number of hills, mountains, deltas, coastal lines and continental shelf, of which mountains and hills make up more than three quarters of Vietnamese total lands. Regions with elevations less than 1,000 metres above sea level make up 85% of the territory. Mountainous regions over 2,000 meters above sea level only account for 1%. Mountain ranges and hills form a large bow facing the South China Sea with 1,400 km length from the Northwest to the Southeast. The highest mountain ranges are all scattered in the West and Northwest. Fan Xi Pan Massif, at the height of 3,143 meters, is considered as the roof of Indochina.
Downwards the Central, the mountain range seems lower and ends with a coastal strip of lowland.  This terrain is characterized by dunes and lagoons in the east towards the coast and terrace of ancient alluvial deposits towards the mountains.
Heading from Hai Van Pass to the South, the topography is less complex. A stretching limestone mountain range is completely replaced by large granite mountains followed by a vast plateau known as the Central Highlands which are dotted with magnificent waterfalls.
Yet, only one fourth of the Vietnamese territory is covered with deltas separated in many regions by mountains and hills. The two largest with fertile arable are Red River Delta of 16,700 sq km in the north, and Mekong River Delta of 40,000 sq km in the south. This, coupled with above geographical features, makes Vietnam resemble a bamboo pole supporting a basket of rice on each end.
In addition, Vietnam boasts a long coastline of 3451 km including countless divine beaches; some is shaded by coconut palms and casuarinas (Hoi An and Nha Trang), others bounded by seemingly endless expanses of sand dunes (Mui Ne) or the rugged spurs of Truong Son Mountains.
With such nature- prioritized geographical features, Vietnam is increasingly confirming its image as the must-see destination in Southeast Asia.
Readmore:  Vietnam Geography

Religions of Vietnam

Vietnam is a country which has a rich and wide variety of religions. These include religions based on popular beliefs, religions brought to Vietnam from the outside, and several indigenous religious groups.

Religion has exerted a deep influence on Vietnamese culture and the Vietnamese concept of life. The attitude towards life, death, and the world beyond bears a deep imprint of Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism, which have been coexisting peacefully for centuries in Vietnam. 
In regard to the major world religions, Vietnam is a multi-religious state, with more than 20 million believers, and more than 30,000 places of worship.
BUDDHISM
The predominant religion in Vietnam is Buddhism, which is also one of the world's great religions. Buddhism was first introduced into Vietnam under the Chinese domination, in the second century B.C., by Chinese immigrants and by Indian preachers coming by sea, and reached its peak in the Ly dynasty (11th century). It was then regarded as the official religion dominating court affairs. Several kings took the cassock or retired into a pagoda after their abdication. Buddhist monks served as counselors to the king at court. Moreover, Buddhism was preached broadly among the population and it enjoyed a profound influence on people's daily life. Its influence also left marks in various areas of traditional literature and architecture. As such, many pagodas and temples were built during this time.
Since the Tran Dynasty (1225-1440), Buddhism began to show signs of decline. Nevertheless, the ideological influence of Buddhism remained very strong in social and cultural life. Presently, over 70 percent of the population of Vietnam are either Buddhist or strongly influenced by Buddhist practices.
Buddhism was originated in India by Shiddharta (563-483 B.C.) or Gautama Buddha, which means the Enlightened One".  According to Buddha, man was born into this world to suffer. The cause of suffering is the craving for wealth, fame, and power that necessarily brings about frustration and disappointment. In order to be free from suffering, man must suppress its ultimate cause: craving. He must not be attached to anything in this "world appearance" and live a life full of virtue, according to the Eightfold Path. This core of Buddhist teaching holds that there are eight "right" ways to live virtuously: right views, right thought, right conduct, right speech, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness and right meditation. An individual's fate in this existence is determined by what he has done in his previous existence. This is the law of Karma, or cause and effect.
The soul does not perish at death, but reincarnates in another existence and this goes on and on. The Buddhist's goal is to be freed from the circle of reincarnation and reach Nirvana, which is a state of complete redemption and supreme happiness. Theoretically, any person may become a Buddha by suppressing craving and following the Eightfold Path, but those who actually attain Buddhahood are rare.
There are two branches of Buddhism: Hinayana (Little Vehicle) also called Theravada Buddhism, which nourishes in Sri Lanka, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Burma, and Mahayana (Great Vehicle) Buddhism which is found in China, Korea, Japan, and Vietnam. Most Vietnamese Buddhists belong to the Mahayana branch. The Theravada branch exists in communities of ethnic Cambodians and Vietnamese living in the Mekong Delta.
The great majority of Vietnamese people regard themselves as Buddhists but not all of them actively participate in Buddhist rituals at the pagoda. For centuries, the Buddhist clergy has not been organized into a hierarchical system. Each pagoda was completely autonomous of others and was entirely administered by local individuals or communities. The first attempt to organize Buddhism on a national scale was achieved by the General Buddhist Association in 1955. Further efforts culminated in the establishment of the Unified Buddhist Church of Vietnam in 1964.
CONFUSIANISM
Confucianism is more of a religious and social philosophy than a religion in the accepted meaning of the word. It has no church, no clergy, and no Bible. It advocates a code of social behavior that man ought to observe so as to live in harmony with society and attain happiness in his individual life. There is little concern about death, the world beyond, and spiritual feelings in this religion.
Confucius, or Kung Fu-tzo (551-479 B.C.), the founder of this religion, stressed the improvement of the moral self as the basic duty of the individual as well as the statesman. In order to rule the world, one must rule one's country; in order to rule the country, one must rule one's family; and in order to rule the family, one must have control of oneself. Consequently, the improvement of the moral self is the cornerstone of Confucianism. Confucius believed that man is born with an essentially good nature which becomes corrupted in his contact with society. In order to improve his moral self and regain that original good nature with which he was born, man must practice the five cardinal virtues of benevolence, propriety, loyalty, intellect, and trustworthiness. In order to keep harmony in the nation and happiness in the family, man must observe the three basic relationships between sovereign and subject, father and son, and husband and wife. On the national level the basic virtue is loyalty to the sovereign, and on the family level, the basic virtue is filial piety. The ritual expression of filial piety is ancestor worship.
Confucianism was introduced into Vietnam as early as the first century, during the Chinese domination. Two Chinese governors at that time, Hsi Kwang and Jen Yen, were most instrumental in its introduction. It was after Vietnam achieved independence that Chinese influence and Confucianism became important in Vietnam. Because of a political philosophy that was favorable for the monarchy, Confucianism was promoted and supported by the government. In 1253 the Institute for National Studies was founded by the king to teach the classical books of Confucius. Under the Le dynasty, studies of the Confucian doctrine attained their apogee. With the French conquest and the influence of Western philosophies, Confucianism began to decline. However, Confucianism still pervades the thinking and behavior of Vietnamese people from all walks of life. It should be noted that the Vietnamese people do not follow many of the Confucian tenets. As an illustration, the pronouncement that "when the father dies, the mother should obey the children" has in reality never been practiced. The widowed mother is till respected and obeyed by all her children.
TAOISM
Another religion which has a deep imprint on the way of life of the Vietnamese is Taoism. Lao Tse (600-500 B.C.), the founder of Taoism, advocated a philosophy of harmony between man and man and between man and nature. To achieve this state of harmony, all forms of confrontation should be avoided. The virtues of simplicity, patience, and self-contentment must be observed. By non-action and keeping away from human strife and cravings, man can reach harmony with himself, other people, and the universe. Reason and knowledge cannot lead man to the right path (Tao), which can be reached only by inward probing and quiet meditation. In essence, Taoism is a religious philosophy. However, the followers of Lao Tse transformed it into a religion with church and a clergy involved in the communication with deities, spirits, and the dead. Taoist clergymen claimed they could cure illness, alleviate misfortune, and predict the future.
Taoism was introduced into Vietnam during the Chinese domination period. By the time Vietnam recovered its independence, it had become one of the main religious faiths of the Vietnamese people. Under King Ly Nhan Ton (1072-1127), the examination for the recruitment of officials consisted of essays on the "three religions." Under the succeeding dynasties, Taoism became a source of inspiration for poets and writers. From the end of the Tran dynasty, Taoism began to turn to mysticism and polytheism. It was this mystic aspect of Taoism that appealed to the common people of Vietnam.
CHRISTIANITY
Despite being the crucial religion of the world, Christianity does not play a major role in Vietnam’s culture. It was introduced into Vietnam rather late, in the second half of the sixteenth century, by Portuguese, Spanish and French European missionaries. The first missionary, Ignatio, came to Vietnam in 1533.
However, it was not until 1615 that the first permanent Christian missions were founded in Hoi An by the Portuguese Jesuits. In 1626, Alexandre de Rhodes was chosen to head the Jesuit mission in North Vietnam. He published a catechism book in Latin and Vietnamese in 1650 and the first Vietnamese, Portuguese and Latin dictionary in 1651 in Rome. Christianity began to develop rapidly.
Since the early decades of 18th century, the preaching of Christianity was banned in Vietnam. Despite the proscription, Catholic missionaries continued their evangelization of Vietnam. Under the Nguyen dynasty, especially under Kings Minh Mang, Thieu Tri, and Tu Duc, the Christians were persecuted and labeled "perverse to the public order." Using the persecution of Christians as a pretext, the French conquered Vietnam in the second half of the nineteenth century. Under the French administration, the Catholics enjoyed the support of the government. It was during the Ngo Dinh Diem regime that the Catholics filled key positions in the government, the army, and the police.
Today there are about three million Christians in Vietnam, most of them Catholics. Despite representing a small percentage of the population, the Catholics played an important role in the political life of Vietnam during the last three decades prior to the fall of Saigon in 1975.
OTHER RELIGIONS
There are two religious sects, Cao Dai and Hoa Hao, which have recently been established in Vietnam. They have been confined to the rural sectors of the Southern Delta region. Their influence on Vietnamese culture has been not so significant.
Caodaism was first introduced to the country in 1926. It is a synthesis of different beliefs, including the teaching of Buddha, Jesus, Confucius, Lao-Tse, Victor Hugo, and so on. It was founded in 1919 by Le Van Trung who established a priestly hierarchy modeled along Roman Catholic lines. The seat of Caodaism is in Tay Ninh, about 60 miles from Saigon. The adherents to this sect have been estimated at about two million.
Hoa Hao is a reformed Buddhist sect of the Theravada variety. Founded in 1939, it is concentrated in the Mekong Delta with its number of followers around two millions.
MOTHER WORSHIP (THO MAU)
Researchers describe the Vietnamese mother-worship cult as a primitive religion. Mother, Me in the Vietnamese language, is pronounced Mau in Sino-­script. The mother worship cult might be originated from the cult of the Goddess in ancient ages. In the Middle Ages, the Mother was worshipped in temples and palaces. Due to the fact that it is a worshipping custom and not a religion, the Mother worshipping cult has not been organized as Buddhism and Catholicism have. As a result, the different affiliations of the cult have yet to be consistent and different places still have different customs.
The custom of Mother Worship originated from the north. In the south, the religion has integrated the local goddesses such as Thien Y A Na (Hue) and Linh Son (Tay Ninh).
In fact, the Mother worship cult was influenced by other religions, mainly Taoism.
Readmore: Religions of Vietnam

Ethnic Minorities of Vietnam

Vietnam is a multi-nationality country with 54 ethnic groups. The Viet (Kinh) people account for 87% of the country's population and mainly inhabit the Red River delta, the central coastal delta, the Mekong delta and major cities. The other 53 ethnic minority groups, totalling over 8 million people, are scattered over mountain areas (covering two-thirds of the country's territory) spreading from the North to the South.

Among ethnic minorities, the most populated are Tay, Thai, Muong, Hoa, Khmer, Nung... with a population of around 1 million each, while the least populated are Brau, Roman, Odu with several hundred people each.
The Viet people succeeded in establishing a centralized monarchy right in the 10th century. The Cham people once boasted a flourishing culture early in the history. The Tay, Nung, and Khmer peoples had reached high levels of development with the presence of various social strata. The Muong, H'mong, Dao, Thai peoples... gathered under the rule of local tribal heads. Many ethnic groups divided their population into social echelons, especially those who lived in mountainous areas.
A number of ethnic minorities had mastered some farming techniques. They grew rice plants in swamped paddy fields and carried out irrigation. Others went hunting, fishing, collecting and lived a semi-nomadic life. Each group has its own culture, diverse and special. Beliefs and religions of the Vietnamese ethnic minority groups were also disparate from each other.
However, a fundamental solidarity among ethnic groups has been established on top of this difference as a result of a centuries long cooperation on the soil of Vietnam. Right in the first century of the history, a mutual supplement in economic relationship between lowland people and mountainous people was formed. This solidarity had been unceasingly strengthened during wars of resistance for defending the country. Through the shared struggle for defending and building of the country and the mutual assistance for co-existence and development, a common community between the Viet people and other ethnic minority peoples had been established and continuously consolidated and developed.
Nonetheless, an evident gap in the material and moral life has indeed still existed between peoples living in the deltas and those living in mountain areas as well as among ethnic minorities themselves. The Vietnamese government has worked out specific policies and special treatments in order to help mountainous people catching up with lowland people, and made great efforts to develop and preserve traditional cultural identities of each ethnic minority group. At present, the programs of providing iodized salt for remote villages, equipping village's health care and hygienic station, fighting malaria, building free schools for ethnic minority children, settled agriculture and fixed residence, and projects of creating new writing scripts for minority peoples and studying and developing traditional culture of each ethnic minority group... have obtained satisfactory results.
Readmore: Ethnic Minorities of Vietnam

Vietnam Culture

The richness of Vietnam 's origins is evident throughout its culture. The spiritual life of Vietnamese people has been shaped by four great philosophies and religions namely Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism and Christianity. Over the centuries, Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism have melded with popular Chinese beliefs and ancient Vietnamese animism to form what is known as Tam Giao (or 'Triple Religions').

Despite dialectic variations throughout the country, Vietnamese (Kinh) still confirm its status as the official and normative language. However, there are dozens of different languages spoken by various ethnic minorities and Khmer and Laotian are spoken in some parts. The most widely spoken foreign languages in Vietnam are Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), English, French and Russian, more or less in that order.
Along with these, popular artistic forms including traditional painting on frame-mounted silk; an eclectic array of theatre, puppetry, music and dance; religious sculpture; lacquer ware and ceramics are also mainstays of the country's culture.
In addition, Vietnamese cuisine itself varies greatly by its regions. Even dishes that are staples throughout Vietnam are prepared differently in the north, centre, and south. Vietnam ’s cuisine is like much of its culture in reflecting its many contacts with other cultures over the centuries – Chinese, Khmer, and French the most notable. General speaking, there are nearly 500 different traditional dishes that include exotic meats (but consider carefully before you eat a rare animal) and fantastic vegetarian creations (often prepared to replicate meat and fish dishes). However, the staple of Vietnamese cuisine is plain white rice dressed up with a plethora of vegetables, fish (which is common in Vietnam ), meat, spices and sauces. Spring rolls, noodles and steamed rice dumplings are popular snacks, and the ubiquitous soups include eel and vermicelli, shredded chicken and bitter soups. Fruit is abundant; some of the more unusual ones include green dragon fruit, jujube, khaki, longan, mangosteen, pomelo, three-seed cherry and water apple. Vietnamese filtered coffee (ca phe phin) is very good; it's usually served very strong and very sweet.
MUSIC
Music is considered as an inevitable spiritual food for life in the eyes of Vietnamese generations. Through lyrics, they can free your innermost feelings, insert themselves with encouragement, nurture good sentiment in their children’s mind, communicate with the invisible supernatural forces, or expressing their desires towards a better life.
Since its beginning, the Vietnamese music has undergone strong inclination with high degree of originality in style and instrumentation, resulting from the heavy influence of thousands-year Chinese domination and, in the South, the Khmer and Indianised Cham musical traditions. The traditional system of writing down music and five note scales are of Chinese origin. Generally, Vietnamese music can be classified into three broad purpose-based categories namely Folk Music, Classical Chamber Music (Court Music) and Theater Music.
Firstly, Folk Music includes children's songs, love songs, work songs, festival songs, lullabies, lamentations and funeral songs. It is composed by villagers illustrating their life in the countryside and usually sung without the support of musical instruments.
Secondly, Classical Chamber Music is rather rigid and formal. Once it was performed at the imperial court for the mandarin elite only. This music falls into two typical kinds such as “Hat A Dao” (in Northern Vietnam) and “ Hue royal music” (in Central Vietnam ), which was recognized as one of the world’s intangible Cultural Heritages in 2003. Here is the appraisal of the UNESCO Council for Vietnamese royal music: “Vietnamese royal music represents an elegant and refined music. It deals with the music performed in the imperial courts and on different anniversaries, religious festivals, and on such particular occasions. Of the different categories developed in Vietnam , only the royal music was national.”
Last but not least, Theatre Music is the harmonious combination of singing, dancing and instrumentation. Nowadays it is blended by Court Theatre, folk performances and foreign influence exemplified in three typical types such as “Cheo”, “Hat Tuong” and “Cai Luong”, of which “Cheo” dates back from the oldest history of Vietnam.
As Vietnam is home to 54 brotherly ethnic groups, its musical characteristic is very diverse accordingly. Each group has its own musical tradition that includes the distinctive melody expression, costumes and instruments such as reed flutes, litho-phones, bamboo whistles, gongs and stringed instruments made from gourds.
VIETNAM WATER PUPPETRY
Water puppetry is Vietnam age-old traditional culture with its own identities. The stage is the water surface, the closed-door house or puppets’ house or "thuy đình" (pagoda on water) is built in the middle of the pond or lake that looks like a communal house in Vietnam countryside. Water puppetry originated in the northern Vietnam Delta during the Ly Dynasty (1010-1225). Chronologically speaking, it is considered an ancient art form which is on the brink of extinction.
The items to be played depict people’s daily life activities or customs and habits. To have a finished puppet, it needs time and patience for chiseling, fitting, painting, decorating and dressing. The well-prepared puppets, the easier for controlling and the more interesting the performance is. Normally, puppets are made of sycamore wood because it’s light and tough finished puppets are vitalized by artists in harmony with characters in the play. Water puppets are traditional wooden carving; they are realistic, poetic and romantic in roles of fishermen, fairies or musicians... Each puppet consists of two parts: the body and the base. The body is the floating part and the base is the underwater part for controlling most important is the control-board attached in the base and success lies in the movements, the action of puppets. Well-experienced artists have created for life, for younger generations variety of puppets and the control-boards. Puppets are controlled and directed by artists in the puppets’ house by pulling, pushing strings. In water puppetry, music plays the vital part. With outdoor stage on water and no-word play except few poems or saying, music is inseparable; it’s to make merry the performance, to personify the characters, and to direct the acting.
Water-puppetry is a cultural tradition of the red river delta farming people. It helps the locals to preserve their villages’ identities, the nature of the farmers who are very hard-working and high-spirit in fighting against the enemy. Therefore, it is said that a trip to Vietnam is incomplete without water puppet shows. All it takes is one hour, and the audience can immerse themselves in Vietnamese culture and peak at the bygone days.
HUE ROYAL MUSIC – an intangible cultural heritage
On November 7, 2003, UNESCO bestowed world heritage status on 28 relics of nations as masterpieces of oral and intangible heritage of humanity. Among the 11 masterpieces of Asia, nha nhac (royal music) represents the first intangible legacy of Vietnam to have been put on this list. The UNESCO council appraised Vietnamese royal music in the following terms: “Vietnamese royal music represents an elegant and refined music. It deals with the music performed in the imperial courts and on different anniversaries, religious festivals, and on such particular occasions. Of the different categories development in Vietnam , only the royal music was national.”
Nha nhac (Vietnamese royal music) and its principles came to Vietnam under the Ho Han Thuong reign (1400-1407). The Ho dynasty, however, only existed for a short time, so nha nhac rapidly fell into oblivion. In 1427, Le Loi defeated the Chinese Ming invaders and liberated the country. However, nha nhac only began to develop in the reign of King Le Thanh Tong (1460-1497 and reached its peak under the Nguyen dynasty (1802-1945). Nha nhac is genre of scholarly music. It attracted the participation of many talented songwriters anf musicians, with numerous traditional musical instruments. From now on, nha nhac will have opportunities to preserve, develop and popularize to the public, inside and outside the country.
GONGS OF THE CENTRAL HIGHLANDS
The Central Highlands’ Gong instruments formed into sets. Each set is a musical allotment with a close system of sound. Each set of Gongs consists of 3 or 15 of gongs together with drums and cymbals. As the part of a musical allotment mentioned above, Gongs reflect an efficiency of excellent sound. Furthermore in the co-ordinative-synchronous performance that the natives call “competition” of Gongs. Hence, these musical instruments mobilized in a majestic space of Highland forests. Gongs music caused everybody tremulously, attracted most of the generation and they are also admired by legendary long-poems.
In the common valuation of the Highlands ’ Gong, Gongs of each ethnic minority has its own, The Edeh’s Gong has is complex sound, fast speed and big intensity. As for M’Nong’s Gong is quite fast speed but not big intensity. Although of the fast speed, the music is “a pleasant dialogue” of Gongs. When it sounds to harmonize to each other, listener has a feeling as the sound of springs, the wind and murmuring forests as well as sound of animal, smiles. Gongs of the Bahna, J’rai incline to the tune of the music.
The Central Highlands’ Gong is not only a musical instrument but also a holy implement a fantastic language and the message linking human and God. Because according to point of view and faith of ethnic minorities that Gong is the dwelling of Gods. The Gong God has his spirit with happiness, sorrow and sulk. The Gong God also has his family: Father, mother and children. He can help human to be fully wealthy and happy, but he will make an opposition if he is hurt.
Highland ’s Gong goes with man passing through difficulties in life. The sound of Gong is used for holding such ceremonies as: the rite of ear-bugling, maturing, age of seventy upwards, wedding, greeting for guest, abandoning grave, celebrating new house…Gongs’ sound is also a signal of information, hearing of Gongs’ sound of Highland that we can understand the owner of the party is happy or not, then we will take part in the happiness or sorrow with them.
Because of the value and signification of Gongs, it is said that: “there is the culture of Gong in the Highlands . Besides, due to the diversity complexity and high density of the highland Gong, so it is said that the Central Highlands is one of the cultural centers of ASIAN Gong. When speaking of cultural character of the Highlands , they cannot help speaking of culture of Gong.
TRADITIONAL CHÈO or popular opera
Traditional chèo is seen as a heritage of Vietnam culture and the red-river delta is the cradle of this, the region rich in folk songs, in funny stories, in proverbs and sayings, in allegories... The land the sites and beautiful spots are deeply impressed in stories narrated by village yard chèo performances. Generations gone by, chèo becomes more and more selected and enriched and it’s a typically artistic style. Since its birth, chèo has been an attraction to people of all walks of life, with no regards to age or social position or nationality.
Chèo is self-narrative stage form where the spectators and the performers mutually exchange ideas. The players make a self-introduction while the viewers closely watch. There are dance, singing, music and literature in script. The contest in chèo varies in proverbs and sayings, fully optimistic in the laughter, humor and no less witty. The humanity is deeply expressed in human rights in the fight between the good and the evil and the winner is always the kindness. Classic chèo normally has good ending in oriental traditions. Many chèo scripts are highly valued as national properties. Actors and actresses in chèo are good dancers. They express their emotions by dancing, in clear styles that are sourced from dailylife activities. The melody in chèo music is a touch, it’s combination of both traditional and modern music. Music is background of chèo that directs the performance styles of all times. Music and play script are decisive factors, chèo music depicts the red river delta folklores that deeply imbue in poems, then again are expressed in chèo contextual meanings. It’s also called “làn” or chèo style. During performance, there are different situations in chèo characters known as “dieu" or way of acting. Đieu is more artistically skilled. The songs in chèo are sometimes excerpts of traditional proverbs and sayings. There’s also clown in chèo who help make the spectators get rid of their tiredness of daily hard work. For years, chèo becomes well-affected by new factors in language, music dancing and art. Folkloric melodies of all parts in the country, from North to South, from lowlands to highlands, even from overseas are popularized to meet the tastes and demands of the countryside spectators.
Viet Nam chèo is said to be vitalized and sustainable. Nowadays, there are professional chèo troupes in cities and provinces. More traditional values such as courage, loyalty, self-sacrifice are felt. Moreover classic chèo is always highly appreciated. Even modern themes are applied and played in chèo.  For generations now, chèo become spiritual source of life for Việt Nam farmers. Chèo is stage art, chèo is music and poetry in their life. Chèo is liked best due to its nationally cultural identity.
Readmore: Vietnam Culture