One of our favourite cities in Southeast Asia, Hanoi is a treat where narrow streets crammed with shops and cafes meet grand French colonial architecture.
Forested limestone islands in the mist rise from the Gulf of Tonkin as if by magic. Take a cruise to idyllic beaches, stay over night on a traditional junk or kayak past locals waving from their floating homes.
UNESCO town of tailors, beautiful old buildings and a delicious and unique cuisine. Visit the nearby temples at My Son or head to the beach for pure relaxation.
Exsus' top tip: head to Hoi An during one of the full moon festivals which are held on every 14th day of the lunar month. The streets are closed to motorised bikes and cars, all the lights are turned off and the town is let up purely by lanterns and the light of the full moon. It's a magical experience to stroll through the town and gaze at spectacular shop fronts full of brightly coloured lanterns or enjoy a romantic meal by lantern-light!
Full Moon Days during 2011: 15 June, 14 July, 13 August, 11 September (biggest full moon party of the year), 10 October, 9 November, 8 December
Full Moon Days during 2012: 7 January, 5 February, 6 March, 4 April, 4 May, 3 June, 2 July, 1 August, 30 August, 29 September (biggest full moon party of the year), 29 October, 27 November, 26 December
Set on the banks of the Perfume River and with a backdrop of the Annamite Mountains, Hue oozes romance. The lavish tombs of the last imperial family that line the town’s riverbank speak of Vietnam’s feudal past.
Hue has named 2012 as National Tourism Year. As part of this, the town is organising the 2012 Hue Festival from 7-15 April, during which time visitors can enjoy mesmerising artistic performances showcasing Hue's rich cultural values and heritage. Ask our Asia expert, George, for more information.
A.k.a. Saigon, this frenetic city is on the up. Gleaming skyscrapers dwarf colonial architecture and lively bars are packed with locals. Nearby, the Cu Chi Tunnels are a fascinating day trip for a glimpse into the horrors of the Vietnam War.
Flooded fields, floating villages, colourful markets and enough rice to feed the whole of Vietnam, this charming, rural area is a real highlight. Take a cruise to see Mekong life up close.
With long sandy beaches and shimmering waters, a hideaway just outside Nha Trang is the place to come at the end of your Vietnamese adventure.
Magical, mountainous region where rice terraces ripple down mountainsides and hill tribes preserve an ancient way of life. Fantastic trekking or cycling through the river valleys.