The Only Vietnam Bucket List You Need

Jun 15, 2019 | ESCAPE, Vietnam

Muong Hoa Valley | Sang Trinh

Heading to Vietnam? Here’s a couple of things  you need to see, do, and eat

If you have an adventurous spirit, there is no other place more ideal to visit than Vietnam. This Southeast Asian nation is the perfect spot to explore beaches, caves, eat local food, and immerse with the local culture. Here is a list of the activities you need to tick off when in Vietnam.

Trek

Whether you love getting active or not, you should try trekking in Vietnam at least once in your life. A great place to start is the Muong Hoa Valley in Sapa. This splendid hill will not only grant you amazing views filled with streams, mountain peaks, and rice terrace, it will also let you get a glimpse of some of the country’s ethnic minorities including the Dai and Dao people, and the H’Mong.

This area lies between two mountain ranges that are parallel to in other in the town’s southeast area. The best part is, the trek is fairly easy! However, it’s best to visit the area in summer so you can skip the muddy terrain.

Make sure to spend a night at a local homestay so you can befriend a local and join them on their daily activities.

Get on a Seaplane

There are only a few spots in the world that rivals the sheer magnificence of Ha Long Bay. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous all over the globe for its limestone pillars dotted with dense jungles, which stands out as its towers over the emerald waters.

Hai Au Aviation Seaplanes - Vietnam

Hai Au Aviation Seaplanes – Vietnam

The most common way to see the spot is through a cruise ship. However, if you want a more unique perspective on this paradise, contact Hai Au Aviation and hop on a seaplane for just under $100. You will even get to land on several islands.

Explore the Largest Cave in the World

Hang Son Doong is the world’s largest cave system located in a mountainous region of northern Vietnam, Phong Nga. A popular destination among adventurers, you can explore this cave with Oxalis Adventure Tours.

Hang En Cave - Hugh Derr

Hang En Cave | Hugh Derr

However, don’t expect your journey to be easy. You will face tons of challenges including muscle-numbing treks, rope climbs, sleeping in a hammock in the jungle, and bouldering. However, if you can’t deal with all those, you can always opt for the Hang En Cave – the third largest cave in the world.

Explore the Sea

Vietnam is not only rich in resources on land, but also in water, and the best way to get a glimpse of these treasures is through diving.  You can explore protected area of Con Dao on the south of the country. With 20 diving sites, and 16 islands, you will surely get your fill of paradise. Expect to see hawksbill turtles, rays, sharks, and colorful sponges and corals.

Cows on Phu Quoc Beach - ArchieB

Cows on Phu Quoc Beach | ArchieB

If you just want to snorkel, head over to Phu Quoc, an island near Cambodia. Known for its lush marine life, you can simply put on your snorkeling gear and look under the waters. You will be treated to the sight of numerous marine animals including scorpion fish, cuttlefish, nudibranchs, and octopus.

Eat Your Way Through Vietnam

Vietnam has perfected its cuisine. With its interesting mix of fresh ingredients and local flavors, devouring it will be something you will never forget. When in Vietnam, do not forget to try its iconic Pho. Considered as the country’s signature dish, Pho is made from flavorful soup with greens and meat, and rice noodles.

Vietnamese Spring rolls - Mc559

Vietnamese Spring rolls – Mc559

If you are craving for something healthy, order Goi Cuon or Vietnamese fresh spring rolls. This dish includes pork slices, shrimp, thin vermicelli noodles, lettuce, and basil wrapped in translucent rice papers.

Head Over to Vietnam

Rich with mystery, color, culture, and wonders, Vietnam is the perfect fusion of Asian, French, and American influences. With the things listed above, deciding what to do on your trip is not challenging anymore!