Travel brings riches in life with experiences, learnings, making new friends and pushing you out of your comfort zone. Perhaps that’s why they say, “Travel is the only thing you can buy that makes you richer”.
For the unaware, 27th of September each year is celebrated as World Tourism Day. This is to raise awareness of the role of tourism within the international community. So, on the occasion of this World Tourism Day, we got in touch with Hemant Gaba, an indie film writer and director, who recently travelled to Vietnam. He spoke to us about his experiences in the Southeast Asian country.
Vietnam is the perfect destination for a nomadic escape
We asked Hemant which are the 5 top experiences or places one shouldn’t miss here, “Just walking or cycling around in the ancient town in Hoi An has got to be the first thing on this list!” A touristy area with boat rides and great food options, Hoi An has got to feature in your list of places to visit! “It is also a super romantic place and is highly recommended for couples.”
Here’s what’s on Hemant’s not to miss list:
- A boat ride in the stream and cycling around the landscape in Ninh Binh
- Covering a 150 km circumference on a motorcycle in Ha Giang, the northern province of Vietnam
- A food tour in Hanoi which incorporates trying local food with a local person
- A train ride from Hanoi to Ta Nang for the splendid views of the gorgeous landscapes
Da Nang’s bridges and ports can’t be missed!
While there are the typical tourist spots in Da Nang like the Marble Mountain and My Son etc., but one of the most interesting features and yet less written/talked about is the main city.
“The main city has two parts, which are on the two sides of the river which are connected by several bridges. These bridges have very interesting shapes like one is in the shape of a dragon and on some particular days you can see an electric flame through the mouth of the dragon. There’s another bridge that constantly changes colours.”
Coming to Ninh Binh, which with its natural beauty and the marvellous landscapes, is truly a hidden gem in Vietnam. Small streams with ducks and caves, farms and huge limestones make it nothing like anything you would have ever seen before. “Ninh Binh and Hoi An are the two places that I would highly recommend!“
“The most exciting part about Ha Giang for me was going to the northernmost tip of Vietnam which shares its border with China!”
Both Ha Giang and Sapa valley are mountainous terrains in Vietnam. While Sapa Valley and a popular tourist spot but if you are looking for something more peaceful and less explored, you can opt for Ha Giang instead. You’ll see some of the most terrific mountains, very close to each other in different shapes and lots of greenery. “Don’t miss out on their local rum, it’s extremely strong and you’ll love it.”
The coasts of Na Trang, Mui Ne and Dalat a.k.a the City of Eternal Springs
For the beach bums and the coastal babies, Nha Trang, the coastal resort city in southern Vietnam is a must-visit. It’s also great for history buffs as it is home to remnants of the Champa Kingdom, Buddhist temples, and gothic-style Catholic churches.
Its natural hot springs, salt fields, and unique waterfalls offer a myriad of sightseeing and recreational activities. Also, check out Mui Ne a tiny fishing village nestled between turquoise beaches that line the Eastern coast of Vietnam. Just rent a bike and explore the village!
Image Source: 123RF.com 
Image Source: Vietnam-guide.com
Centred around a lake and a golf course, Dalat is yet another province in Southern Vietnam’s central highlands that all nature freaks must visit!
Known as the “City of Eternal Spring” for its distinctive temperate climate, the city offers attractions like the Elephant Falls, Valley of Love, Da Lat Flower Gardens and more.
And definitely don’t skip The Crazy House, a whimsical structure which serves as a guest hour and art gallery designed by Dang Viet Nga, a Soviet-trained Vietnamese architect, back in 1990!
The distinct and unforgettable food of Vietnam
As Hemant already recommended before, a trip to Vietnam is incomplete without a food tour!
“You absolutely have to try the Pho in Vietnam. Especially the beef Pho, it is the best one and Banh Mi, which is like a sandwich made of French bread.”
As per Hemant, Hanoi is the food capital of Vietnam and the best way to explore food in this city is to go on a guided food tour!
If you’re on a budget, Hemant recommends picking a hostel or an Airbnb rather than a hotel to stay at. “The Airbnb options are plenty and they’re pretty good, especially in Hanoi and Ho Chinh Minh.“
Click here to follow Hemant on Instagram
Featured Image Source: Daily Maverick
