Trekking in Vietnam: Top 7 Exciting Trails to Conquer
Trekking trails in Vietnam abound, but we’ve picked the best 7. Traverse the mountain highlands of Sapa and Ha Giang. Be captivated inside awesome caves, by sublime scenery in national parks, and mountain top vistas. For spiritual seekers, tread a Buddhist pilgrimage trail.
Vung Tau Beach City — Overlooked Waves near Ho Chi Minh City
Vung Tau is a nice beach getaway at any time of year, especially from Ho Chi Minh City. Visitors are drawn to unique viewpoints, cable car rides, islands, and a range of interesting sites. Besides fresh seafood, the waves of Vung Tau are a good match for beginner surfers.
Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral: A Vatican Basilica in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica is a key landmark in Ho Chi Minh City. The red bricks and all other materials were imported from France between 1863 and 1880. There are many interesting things about Saigon Cathedral, and the faithful can still attend mass every day.
Cholon in Saigon or Chinatown in Ho Chi Minh City
Cholon, or Chinatown, used to be a separate city to Saigon. The word means ‘big market’, but there’s much more to Cholon and its place in the story of Saigon. Before you head to Saigon Chinatown, read about its unique character, food, pagodas, markets, and local customs.
Caodaism: A Uniquely Vietnamese Religion and Its Most Famous Temple
Caodaism is a uniquely Vietnamese religion. It’s a crystallization of religion and philosophy from East to West and has played a special role in Vietnamese history. Visit the Tay Ninh Holy See – a popular Cai Dao attraction with unique architecture and sacred objects.
30 Best Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City: The City That Never Sleeps
Go on the best foodie ventures, and enjoy unique Saigon coffee culture. Experience history through city architecture, War Remnants Museum, and religious icons. Get a taste of greater Asia from Chinatown to Little Tokyo, or adventure down the Mekong Delta and Cu Chi Tunnels.
Con Dao Island: Infamous Hell Prison Turned Paradise
Con Dao Island was once feared for its horrific Tiger Cages in the infamous Con Dao Prison. Now, it’s more a paradise of nature trails through Con Dao National Park. Its beaches and islands are ideal for snorkeling and fishing. Find out how to get to this exotic hideaway.
Thich Nhat Hanh: An International Buddhist Zen Master from Hue
Thich Nhat Hanh, the world-renowned Zen master, began his journey at Tu Hieu Pagoda, Hue. He was a prominent peace activist during the Vietnam War. Later, he gained fame for his teachings of Engaged Buddhism, mindfulness in the Plum Village Tradition, and his monastic books.
One Pillar Pagoda: A Buddhist Lotus Pedestal in Hanoi
One Pillar Pagoda, otherwise known as the Lotus Pedestal at Dien Huu Pagoda, dates to the second Ly King. Discover why it’s shaped like a lotus and built in a pond dedicated to Guan Yin. A visit to this tranquil pagoda is also a chance to see a Bodhi tree from Bodh Gaya.
