Vietnam, a land of splendour and intrigue
A country that borders China to the north and hugs the coastline of the Indochina Peninsula, Vietnam has a vast array of sights and sensations waiting to be discovered. Book one of our flights to Vietnam and discover this ancient and unpredictable Southeast Asian destination.
Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay in the north-east of the country covers more than 900 square miles and consists of around 1,600 islands. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the scenery of the Bay is at once surreal and beautiful, where every vista is extraordinary.
Hanoi
Hanoi is home to the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its role throughout the history of the country can't be underestimated - it was its capital for 800 years and was at the heart of Vietnam politics for 1,300 years. Here you'll find the body of Uncle Ho - Ho Chi Minh - which is preserved in a glass case within a mausoleum in the heart of the city.
Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City is home to the Cu Chi Tunnels which were built in 1948, spanning some 75 miles. Now they have become a vast war museum. Walk the subterranean passages and learn what life was like for the Viet Cong soldiers who dwelled within.
The War Remnants Museum was opened in 1975 and is a sobering reminder of a conflict that lasted almost 20 years. Here you'll find an array of weapons, tanks and other military equipment that was used against the Vietnamese by the USA.
Hoi An
Hoi An was a vital port during the 16th and 17th centuries and saw burgeoning trade between Asia and Europe. Nowadays it's a delightful seaside town that is populated with old canals, Japanese-built bridges, pagodas, wooden houses, French colonial buildings and Chinese temples.
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the M? Son Hindu Sanctuary is a gorgeous example of 4th-century Champa architecture that lies amid a tropical jungle. Here you'll discover the temples, towers and sculptures that make up the impressive ruins.
Hue
Situated in central Vietnam, Hue was established as the country's capital city in 1802 and remained so until 1945. Walk among the Complex of Hue Monuments that are now recognised as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Eating out
Hanoi's Red Bean Restaurant offers authentic Vietnamese cuisine with a contemporary twist. Enjoy meals whose colour alone dazzles and whose flavours zing, from spinach ravioli served with nectar soup to roasted duck breast glazed with orange and served with sautéed vegetables.
Herbs and Spices in Hoi An not only provides great food - the stuffed squid is a signature dish -but provides its patrons with the chance to learn its culinary secrets.
The aptly-named Noir in Ho Chi Minh City is an experience unlike most others where you literally dine in the dark. Close your eyes and submit to the sensations of sound, smell and taste.
