In his biography on the Culture Trip, Matthew wrote: “Three years ago I quit my job and moved to Vietnam because I knew there was more to life than sitting in a cubicle and waiting for a pension. Since then I've had more wild adventures and met more amazing people than I ever thought possible.”

He had one article on the Culture Trip website, listing many interesting cities and places in Vietnam. In the article, he stated: “Vietnam might look small on the map, but this fascinating country has enough beauty to fill a continent, from jagged mountains in the north to tropical beaches in the south and the wealth of history and culture in between.” Here are some suggestions from a foreigner who falls in love with the country and people of Vietnam.

Hanoi

Vietnam’s capital city is full of history and culture, especially in the Old Quarter near Hoan Kiem Lake. This is the epicenter of tourism in the city, with market streets, buzzing nightlife, and some of the best Vietnamese food on the planet.

(Photo: The Culture Trip)

Ha Long

When it comes to Vietnamese tourism there’s no avoiding Hạ Long Bay. This place was recognized as one World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Try to get on a reputable tour boat, or stay on Cát Bà island. For a similar experience with a little less hustle and bustle, try the nearby Bai Tu Long Bay.

(Photo: The Culture Trip)

Hue

This city was once the capital of imperial Vietnam under the dynasty of Tay Son and Nguyen, and much of its rich history still remains. Currently, this city is one of the important cultural, tourist, and culinary centers of the Central region and the whole country with extremely beautiful destinations for travel-loving hearts.

(Photo: The Culture Trip)

Hoi An

According to Matthew, if you only have time to visit a few places in Vietnam, make Hoi An one of them. Its Ancient Town is more captivating than the pictures suggest, and it gets even more beautiful at night when all the lanterns light up. The town’s past as a trading port on the silk route has also developed a rich history of tailoring, with hundreds of professional tailors still working today, so spend a couple of days here and have a nice dress or suit made just for you.

(Photo: The Culture Trip)

Nha Trang

Nha Trang is a beautiful coastal city with diverse destinations. It has both beautiful natural scenery and lots of exciting activities for those who like adventure games. There are a whole host of extreme activities waiting for adrenaline junkies among – try jet skiing, surfing, or even flyboarding, if you’re brave enough.

(Photo: The Culture Trip)

Da Lat

If you’re looking to escape the heat then Da Lat is the destination for you. The city is built on a plateau of 1,500m (4,921ft) above sea level and has a cool climate. The mountain town is a popular holiday destination for families and young couples, which, along with its rich agricultural heritage, is why it’s known as the City of Love and Flowers.

(Photo: The Culture Trip)

Ho Chi Minh city

Ho Chi Minh City is known for its chockablock traffic and noise pollution. There are museums, world-class restaurants, rooftop bars, luxury hotels, street food stalls, and as good a nightlife scene as you’ll find anywhere in the region.

(Photo: The Culture Trip)

Can Tho

Most people opt for an hour-and-a-half-long day trip to My Tho from Ho Chi Minh City, but if you have the time, venture further into the Mekong Delta and Can Tho. In this riverside city, you’ll discover Cai Rang, the largest floating market in Vietnam, which is much more impressive than the others in the region; shop for everything from clothing to exotic fruits.

(Photo: The Culture Trip)

Da Nang

The buzzing coastal city of Da Nang, sandwiched between Ba Na hills and the South China Sea, has one of Vietnam’s most stunning skylines. It’s a great base to explore nearby attractions including the Golden Bridge, My Khe Beach, Lang Co Beach, and My Son. But don’t miss out on what the city itself has to offer: see its impressive pink cathedral, built in 1923, grab a bargain at the bustling Han Market, and, as night falls, visit Dragon Bridge, the longest bridge in Vietnam, which lights up the city with dragon breath lighting effects.

(Photo: The Culture Trip)

Hai Phong

It’s nicknamed the City of Flame Flowers because most of the streets are lined with Royal Poinciana flame flower trees; visit between May and June to see the flowers in full bloom. The leafy boulevards have a real European feel; look out for the neoclassical Opera House and the elegant Queen of the Rosary Cathedral, dating to the 19th century. Meanwhile, the Do Son Buffalo Fighting Festival is a unique cultural attraction that draws huge crowds every year.

(Photo: The Culture Trip)

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