Beautiful scenery, delicious food,
World Heritage Sites,
…and only 4.5 hours from Fukuoka!
One of the best things about living in Fukuoka is the quick and easy access to other parts of Asia. Did you know that Vietnam Airlines offers non-stop weekly flights to Ho Chi Minh City – and that you can be there in just four and half hours? Last month we took a quick five day tour of three areas in Vietnam including the bustling southern city, Ho Chi Minh, Hoi An, a beach resort with World Heritage attractions and Hue, an ancient capital city also boasting World Heritage sites. Because Vietnam stretches from north to south, there’s always somewhere warm or cool enough to suit you. There’s no “bad season” and there’s something of interest for everyone: warm sand beaches, historic ruins, shopping, and last but not least, great food! Despite Vietnam’s image as a developing country, wherever we went we felt entirely safe, comfortable and welcomed. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a novice, Vietnam is well worth considering as your next holiday destination. Flip the pages for some our snapshots, then access our new online travel photo gallery to see many more – and enter a lucky draw for a free flight to Vietnam!
Ho Chi Minh City
Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) is the largest and most progressive city in Vietnam. Despite it’s huge size, the city center is safe and easy to navigate on foot. There are plenty of open air cafes, restaurants and boutiques to check out, and the mix of colonial period European and Asian architecture makes for colorful snapshots. Motor scooters are everywhere! HCMC is definitely a city on the move.
Buffet Din Ky
We asked our guide to take us somewhere exciting and off the tourist track, and look where he took us! Exciting, delicious and cheap! What more could you want? A massive self-serve buffet of Vietnamese cuisine, fruits and deserts. VND 105,000/person.
50 Le Thi Hong Gam Q-1, Tel: 8294-112
Continental Hotel – Cafe La Dolce Vita Cafe
Try as you may, you cannot shop all day long. Rest your heels in classic comfort in this hotel’s open air cafe. A cold beer, iced lime soda, or ice cream will surely refresh you!
132-134 Dong Khoi Quan 1TP, Tel: 8299-201
Legend Hotel Saigon
Overlooking the scenic Saigon River and within walking distance to best shops, this premium class hotel is a great place to base yourself in comfort. Full modern facilities including outdoor pool. Fabulous buffet breakfast! Deluxe room: $280.00
2a-4A Ton Duc Thang St. District 1, Ho Chi Minh City +84-8-827-2388 www.legendsaigon.com
Hue
Located along the banks of the Perfume River, and nick-named Vietnam’s Kyoto, Hue was the capital city until 1945 and is home to many historic and cultural sites including several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You’ll need at least one full day or more to enjoy the major sites including a riverboat tour and a visit to the Cho Dong Ba Market. For both a thrill and cheap way to get around town, be sure to take a three-wheeled spin in a cyclo. From June 3 June 11, 2008 the Hue Festival 2008 brings together art troupes and sculptors from over 27 nations. More info: www.huefestival.com
Imperial Citadel
A sprawling complex of temples, pavilions, moats, walls, gates, museums, and galleries representing various periods of history in Vietnam. Ideal for a leisurely and peaceful strolls.
Tombs of the Emperors
Located along the Perfume River these expansive grounds are a wonderful place to stroll and absorb both historic and scenic sites.
Banh Nam
A slim layer of flour wrapped in banana leaf with a dusting of shrimp. A must-try while in Hue!
Century Riverside Hotel Hue
Situated along the bank of the Perfume River and close to part of town popular with tourists; location is this hotel’s trump card. Speaking of cards, there’s a casino next door – as are the docks for the river tour boats. Deluxe River view twin room: $155.00
249 Le Loi Street, Hue +84-54-823390 www.centuryriversidehue.com
Hoi An
Once an important international port, the old town of Hoi An, full of winding lanes and Chinese-styled shop houses is particularly atmospheric, especially as the sun goes down. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, many of the buildings in the Old Town have been well preserved. A single ticket gives you access to temples, museums, and other attractions. Inexpensive and speedy tailors, cafes, and restaurants serving both local and international fare abound. With the popular Cua Dai Beach nearby, Hoi An offers a unique combination of cultural and resort-style attractions. Great souvenir shopping too!
My Son Ruins – UNESCO World Heritage Site
Influenced by Hinduism and built by the Champa kingdom (200AD~1700AD), several brick structures remain despite the ravishes of war. Beautiful jungle and mountain scenery make this an ideal outing from Hoi An.
Marble Mountain
A sudden outcropping of mountains is home to some fascinating Buddhist temples, caves and grottoes. There are plenty of steps to climb so wear comfortable shoes!
The Nam H’ai
Luxurious designer accommodations, spa and dinning. Visit: www.ghmhotels.com for more info.
River Beach Resort
Facing the De Vong River, a beautiful pool in the garden, and just a short walk to the best beach in the area, this hotel has so much to offer. The rooms and beds are comfortable and the staff are super friendly. Full restaurant service including buffet breakfast. Deluxe room (garden/pool view): $98.00
05 Cua Dai Beach, Hoi An +84-510-927-888 www.river-beachresort.com
Souvenirs
Sesame-Sprinkled Gum
I love Asian sweets! In Hue, I found Nam Thuan, a peanut and sesame flavoured soft candy. It’s a great chew and energy booster. Available in the main market but try to visit the main shop and see it being made. Me Xung, 201 Duong Huynh Thuc Khang-Hue. Tel: 054-534068
Silk-ware
In Hue we found Rose, a shop specializing in tailored silk ware. Operated by Frenchman Gerard Rollet and his wife Rollet Ho Thi Nguyet Thuy, they offer western-styled designs and speedy custom alterations on-the-spot. The top pictured here was VND 240,000. 14 Pham Ngu Lao Tel: 054-837299
