Breathtaking nature of Vietnam
From chaotic metropolises to majestic natural landscapes that offer truly picturesque road trips, Vietnam is a country where one can never be bored as a tourist. It offers something to quite possibly everyone, be it peace and quiet, or loud and flashy neon lights.
So, what is there to see in this relatively small, or rather interestingly shaped, yet incredible Asian country with almost endless sightseeing opportunities. Well, one thing is certain: variety.
Sa Pa: A peaceful oasis in the north
The tropical heat that many associate with South-East Asia is nowhere to be found in northern Vietnam, 1,600 meters (5,249 feet) above sea level at the French-founded resort area of Sa Pa in the Hoang Lien Son Mountains.
Sa Pa is found at the base of Fansipan, Vietnam's highest mountain, and the former village now has an extensive tourist infrastructure.
With flashing neon signs, competing tour operators, hotels and restaurants try to lure in guests. While such flashiness may not appeal to everyone, it can't be denied that Sa Pa is one of Vietnam's most popular destinations.
This is also helped by the surrounding area, where visitors can spend days hiking along narrow paths that lead to lush green rice terraces and fields of corn and indigo.
Hanoi: Between chaos and contemplation
Vietnam's capital is also its transportation hub: No matter what day it is, there are guaranteed to be mopeds clogging the city's boulevards.
However, at the center of Hanoi, the narrow market alleys and old merchants' houses are clear of traffic as well as charming
Phong Nha-Ke Bang: On a cave tour
This national park includes several hundred caves stretching more than 350 kilometers (217 miles).
Just a fraction of these widely branching paths are open to the public, but anyone who enters this subterranean world, whether by foot or on boat, will experience surreal-looking, fantastically illuminated caves that are full of bizarre shapes
Mekong Delta: Vietnam's orchard
In the very south of Vietnam, the Mekong River flows into the South China Sea in an extensive network of hundreds of river branches and canals. Where the Vietnam War once raged is now a fertile region.
The best way to explore the Mekong Delta is by moped or bicycle.