Last month, we spent 2 weeks in Vietnam travelling from the south to the north. We started from Ho Chi Minh City, travel to Mui Ne, back to HCMC, took a flight to Danang, travel by taxi to Hoi An, took a bus from Hoi An to Hanoi via a 4 hours stop at Hue and from Hanoi, we took a train to Sapa.
Here's our 5 Tips on Vietnam Travel:
1. If possible, do not stay more than 2 nights in HCMC. Instead, visit nearby attractions e.g. Mekong Delta and Mui Ne beach. The idea is to get out of HCMC.
2. Mui Ne beach is beautiful, especially in March when the sky is clear and yet not as hot and humid like HCMC. There are many beach resorts where you can relax or if you are the adventure type... then go kitesurfing!
3. As for central Vietnam, visit the Hoi An old town. Be sure to join the Hoi An Photo Tour if you love taking photos. A must-visit restaurant is the Morning Glory, almost everything on the menu is good.
4. If you have the time, stay one night in Hue. It is quite different from the rest of the Vietnam. We had only 5 hours stop-over here and regretted not staying at least a night to visit the sights and try the food here.
5. Hanoi weather in March is gloomy and wet. If not for the amazingly delicious street food, we would not have stay for another night. You must try the food stalls along the street (Hàng Chiếu) of the Old Quarters. Eat at those stalls that are busy and have many local customers. The soup base of the Pho here is very tasty. The deep fried prawn fritters are heavenly when down with lots of Bia Ha Noi (local beer).
