Out of many countries in this world that are worth visiting and exploring, here are 6 reasons why Vietnam should be the first one on that list. With lots of amazing food, rich culture, beautiful nature, and so much more, these are all the things you can explore in Vietnam.
Discover the Beauty of Vietnam’s Architecture & Archaeology
Vietnam is a kind of a location where years and years of multicultural merging has left traces on the land.
The Dai Viet civilisation ruled over the north part but also gained its dominance in the whole country later. The traces of this Chinese-influenced culture can still be seen in historic buildings such as the Temple of Literature which is a famous ancient university where the finest Vietnamese elites studied centuries ago.
The Cham people used to live south of Dai Viet territory where they were creating the first bits of an empire that we now correspond with central Vietnam as well as certain parts of South Vietnam. The Cham, unlike the Buddhist Viet, were Hindu. This culture of theirs often put them in uncomfortable situations with their northern neighbours.
Though the Cham kingdom eventually lost their long-term battle to Dai Viet, their descendants still live on the grounds of Cambodia and Malaysia. Their culture can be seen in the sturdy walls of the Champa My Son Temple Complex even today. So, if you ever go to Vietnam, make sure to visit it.
Explore the Local Culture
The Vietnamese nation has been around for over thousands of years and they seem like they will stick around for a long time to come as well.
These past centuries have enriched Vietnam with such a versatile culture that manifests itself in numerous beautiful ways.
As for the architecture, you absolutely have to visit the temple in Hoan Kiem Lake, the Japanese bridge, and the venerable Tan Kyu House. If you’re looking for entertainment then head straight to one of the famous Vietnamese Water Puppets. On the other hand, if you are mesmerised with fine arts, you should visit Kim Bong Village where you can take some of the most stunning carvings with you.
If you want to see the lively night-life of the action-city in Vietnam you should visit Vietnam Festivals as well. Though traffic can be pretty bad during the celebration of Tet (New Year), you should definitely not miss it.
Taste some of the most delicious local Vietnamese food
The Vietnamese simply love their food. They are passionate foodies and they won’t hesitate to go into heated debates about the perfect and proper way to prepare the noodle dish pho any time of the day. It’s quite complicated to point out exactly what makes Vietnamese dishes so unique and delicious considering how many influences on their food there have been through history. The influences of Chinese and French cuisine can definitely still be tasted in some of the most popular Vietnamese dishes such as cao lau noodles and banh mi.
Another huge preoccupation in many Vietnamese places is beer. Every major city in Vietnam has its own brand of beer and all of them are unique and delicious in their own way. You should definitely give them a try.
Learn about the Vietnam War History
Most Americans instantly think of the Vietnam War when they think about Vietnam. On the other hand, Vietnamese people see this war as a major and most important step made towards decolonization of their land. Just as much as the American Revolution is a big part of America's history and creation story, the Vietnam War is a big part of Vietnam’s national creation myth.
To learn about their aspect and perspective on this monumental war, you can visit numerous Vietnam War sites that perfectly represent this view. For instance, there are many historic war sites in Saigon that have been turned into museums and memorials showcasing an important victory of the Vietnamese nation. The Cu Chi Tunnels paint the picture of the covert struggle of the Communist guerrillas against the invading American forces, while the War Remnants Museum showcases the savagery of war on this land. If you want to see the exact spot where the South Vietnamese government submitted to communist forces then you should visit the Reunification Palace.
Farther north in Hanoi you can visit Ba Dinh Square that is a home of the Ho Chi Minh Museum, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the Ho Chi Minh Stilt House.
Expand your horizons by volunteering
Though travelling can be done solely for entertainment and having fun, why not combine the fun and practical part by spending some time abroad gaining new skills, expanding your horizons, and integrating into a new culture in a completely new and unique way?
Well, if you want to meet Vietnam on a whole new personal level you can always sign up for programs to volunteer overseas where Vietnam is also included as one of the most popular choices. There are tons of amazing programs that include teaching overseas, volunteering with children, volunteering with animals, and so much more.
Dive into some of the most adventure activities
If you choose to travel to Asia in hopes of finding some amazing adventurous times, Vietnam should definitely be your number one choice.
No matter what you imagine as adventurous times, Vietnam has all of it and more to offer to those who come to Vietnam wanting to explore its beauty. You can go sledding down the Mui Ne sand dunes. You can ride through Vietnam on a Russian-made motorcycle. Whatever suits your appetite can easily be found in Vietnam. Some of the most exciting adventures you can go on around HaLong Bay involve kayaking on the bay and climbing up the karst walls.
Conclusion
Overall, Vietnam is such a beautiful and versatile country with lots to offer to passionate and adventurous travellers. Its rich history is still written all over their architecture, the food is unique and delicious, the nature is absolutely stunning, and there are tons of great opportunities for amazing volunteering programs. So, what are you waiting for? Hop on the plane and visit this beautiful country full of natural wonders and rich culture.
