An Introduction to VIETNAM

Vietnam is rich in history and culture blended from diverse influences that have presided over the country and its people. From the 2000 years of domination by the Chinese to the more modern influences of French colonialism and the turbulent independence movement of the mid 20th Century, Vietnam is now being embraced by the world for its magnificent natural beauty, friendly and inquisitive people and its delicious food. Full of UNESCO and World Heritage listed sights. Vietnam is a treasure trove of memories. Its geography, man made monuments and structures are supplemented by the positive attitude of the Vietnamese people themselves, creating an inspiring and captivating atmosphere for visitors.

Time - Vietnam is 6 hours behind Eastern Standard Time in New Zealand.

Language - Official language is Vietnamese. English is widely spoken as is French by the older generation.

Entry Requirements - Passport must be valid for 6 months beyond the length of stay. Visas are required for New Zealanders, the price of which is extra to your group cost.  

WHAT’S NEW THIS YEAR

The countries of Indochina hold some of the most spectacular scenery, ancient monuments and friendly warm people in the world. Despite the huge increase in travel to this region over the past ten years, every time I go back there I am constantly struck by the endearing charm of the countries that make up Indochina and how little things have actually changed. The proliferation of modern high rise buildings, super highways and smart shopping centres that usually spring up in developing regions when tourism takes a hold, has not happened in any large degree to Indochina and so a visit here is still an exciting and fascinating experience for even the most seasoned traveller. Our 2009 brochure for Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos contains all of the group tours that have become so popular with New Zealanders, although we are making some small changes to the itineraries in response to the feedback we have received over the past year. These changes will make our group tours more enjoyable for participants as they will add some previously unvisited areas or eliminate sections that do not hold enough interest.

SAIGON (HO CHI MINH CITY)

The former capital of what was South Vietnam, Saigon, or Ho Chi Minh City as it is officially known, is at the forefront of the modernisation and expansion that Vietnam is undergoing. By Vietnamese standards, Saigon is a modern city thriving on the fast paced lifestyle that comes with the commercial gains. Despite this, there are still many historical sights and locations to see and visit in and around Saigon including the Mekong Delta to the south and the famous Cu Chi Tunnels to the west.

HANOI

Hanoi is the capital of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam and is often referred to as the ‘Paris of the Orient’. Filled with lakes, tree lined boulevards and French designed villas, this romantic city cuts a distinctly different style of life to that in Saigon. A must see sight in Hanoi is the Old Quarter, comprised of trading streets where traditional and modern goods are traded from centuries old “tunnel houses” and narrow streets are abuzz with colour and activity.

HUE

This ancient city is bisected by the Perfume River, given its name by the smell created from the fallen flowers which drift down the river each year. Hue became the capital and cultural centre of Vietnam last century and was home to Vietnam’s last Emperor Dynasty and as such contains the must see UNESCO listed Citadel and Royal Tombs.

HOI AN

Known as the ‘Living Museum of Vietnam’, this UNESCO listed town is a place lost in time. Once a major trading port of South East Asia from the end of the 16th Century to the early 19th Century, Hoi An was populated and influenced architecturally by Japanese, French, Chinese and Vietnamese designs. Becoming forgotten to the outside world once its river silted up, this charming town still retains its well kept original historic buildings and ancient backstreets and has become a favourite destination for today’s visitors. It is also the best place for bargain priced, tailor- made clothes.

DALAT

Built by the French as a hill station retreat from the Saigon heat, this small town nestled in the Central Highlands is a favourite destination for the romantics and is also known as the favourite honeymoon destination amongst the local Vietnamese. Being surrounded by lakes, valleys and waterfalls, this small colonial designed town has a real alpine feel.

NHA TRANG

Nha Trang has traditionally relied on its vast fishing industry which is evident in the lifestyle of the local people. Taking advantage of some of the best coastline and weather in Vietnam, Nha Trang is developing into one of its main resort towns. Boasting perfect weather for fishing and some of the clearest water in Vietnam, a cruise, snorkel and seafood lunch out on the bay amongst the islands off Nha Trang is a must.

SAPA

A favourite destination for those who have ventured there, the old French hill station of Sapa is set amongst the picturesque Hoang Lien Son mountain range, which is the highest in Vietnam. Inhabited by the Black Hmong ethnic minority and surrounded by many other colourful hill-tribe minorities, Sapa is a perfect location to appreciate the lifestyle of these friendly people, especially at the markets.

HALONG BAY

The World Heritage listed Halong Bay is often referred to as the ‘jewel in the crown’ of Vietnam. According to legend, the 1000’s of islands were formed by a dragon and its efforts form some of the most stunning scenery in Vietnam. No itinerary would be complete without at least spending a four hour cruise on the Bay of Tonkin and, if time permits, staying overnight onboard a traditional junk boat anchored amongst the bizarre rock sculptures watching sunset and sunrise.

MEKONG DELTA
(My Tho, Chau Doc, Can Tho, Vinh Long)

Known as the Rice Basket of Vietnam,the Delta is an important region both economically and culturally for the country as it is the world’s largest exporting region of rice. Home to 15 million Vietnamese, this is a world of waterways, backwaters and canals, always influenced by the whims of the river system. The Delta is an ideal place to experience the life of a local Vietnamese farmer in one of our home stays, located amongst the small islands and canals of the Mekong River.

 

Country Map

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Images from VIETNAM

Country Info