Vietnam is a nation always on the move. Look away for a moment, and a business pops up, a new experience breaks ground, a route appears where there was none before. In 2019, travellers to Vietnam have more options than ever before, and it only gets better from here. Below are seven inspired ways to get to know Vietnam now.

PLAN AN URBAN GETAWAY

Countrysides are nice, but Vietnam’s cities are flourishing at a pace that simply can’t be ignored. For a hit of the energy that has the country in its sway, plan a long weekend in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang. What you find might surprise you: modern Vietnamese kitchens, trendy rooftop bars, hole-in-the-wall boutiques, contemporary art galleries, and craft beer houses wait around each corner. Grab a ca phe and enjoy the non-stop action.

Da Nang 1 Day Tour

EXPERIENCE ETHNIC CULTURE IN A HOME STAY

Vietnam’s ethnic homestays  consistently win travellers over with their warm hospitality and excellent value. Here’s the chance to interact with ethnic minorities on a personal level, taste authentic countryside cooking, and bed down in breathtaking locations on a budget. Start your search with homestays in Vietnam’s national parks and reserves such as Pu Luong and Phong Nha, and in Tai and Hmong villages surrounding of Sapa and Mai Chau.

Mai Chau – Ban Lac Village 02 Days 01 Night –> Book now!!!

CHECK YOURSELF IN FOR A WELLNESS RETREAT

Not many people know it yet, but Vietnam’s central coast is poised to become Asia’s next big wellness destination. Already the spas in the area are snapping up industry awards for thoughtful programs and striking design. HARNN Heritage Spa and Fusion Maia are two pioneers leading the pack, however the zen-like mineral hot springs at Alba Wellness Valley and lagoon-facing villas in Lang Co are worth at least a few nights. Yoga practitioners can make their way to Hoi An, where 200-hour teacher training courses and wellness retreats now take place on an almost monthly basis. Beyond Central Vietnam, the islands of Con Dao and Phu Quoc also present amazing world-class wellness breaks.

LEAD UP FOR A VIETNAM MARATHON

Who says holidays have to be indulgent? A new crop of marathons and triathlons have sprung up around Vietnam, opening fresh trails to runners from all over. The Vietnam Mountain Marathon is the perfect excuse to spend a few days in the stunning highland town of Sapa, but you’ll find plenty of other options throughout the year, including beachfront races in Da Nang, heritage runs in Hanoi, and more marathons in destinations such as Moc Chau, Ha Long and Ho Chi Minh City.

SAMPLE NEW FLAVOURS ON A FOODIE TOUR

Vietnam’s delicate, delicious cuisine is reason enough to visit. In 2019, you’ll find contemporary restaurants challenging old ways, and dedicated foodies opening their kitchens and neighborhoods to visitors via personalised tours. Vietnam’s tour operators are embracing the trend, with north-to-south foodie tours that delve deep into Vietnamese culinary philosophy.

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