Vietnam - Backpackers' Haven

No other country embraces backpackers with greater gusto than Vietnam. The abundance of cheap youth hostels, affordable hotels, the easy availability of internet cafes and local tour operators, affordable and appetising cuisine and the friendly smiles of the locals make you feel right at home.

Vietnam's ‘S' shaped peninsula, bordering on neighbouring countries like Laos and China, on top of its French colonial roots, brings about an interesting cacophony of East-meets-West. Where else do you tuck into French baguette and pancakes for breakfast and pho bo (beef noodle soup) for lunch, enjoy an idle afternoon at a local café with their absolutely aromatic drip coffee, immerse in exotic French architecture, explore its rich historical roots and travel to the magnificent mountains and beautiful islands across the country?

Ho Chi Minh City may be Vietnam's commercial and financial hub but it is Hanoi that retains its Old Quarters' historical roots and the authenticity of its people. A trip to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must when you are at Hanoi. Termed the "Bay of the Descending Dragon", Halong Bay has thousands of amazing islands with limestone caves and grottoes that will leave you breathless. Look out for fishing villages where villagers hawk their wares on boats. Visibility is best between May to October but slap on the sunblock as it could well be the hottest time of the year.

When in Hanoi, how can anyone not make a trip to SAPA Valley, tucked away in the Northwest of Hanoi, comprising of majestic mountains where the ethnic minorities call home? Book a tour at any of the local tour operators in Hanoi and be prepared to spend three to four days at Sapa Valley. Weekend markets teem with life where the hill tribes gather to sell wares. Their striking, traditional garb with their hand embroidered clothing and jewellery belies their ability to speak a smattering of English, French, Chinese and even Japanese. You may want to consider a home-stay at the traditional hilltribe village in the surrounding area. Light hiking trips promise to be a feast for the eyes.

Being in Vietnam was as if I was transported to my parents' era; where life was simpler, people were friendlier and everything was just much less complicated. An eclectic mix of rich culture and history together with enchanting nature sites will certainly draw me back to Vietnam very soon before this fast developing country loses its old world charm.

Things To Take Note

1. Visas are required when visiting Vietnam.
2. Temperatures can range from below 0 degrees Celsius to over 30 degrees Celsius across Vietnam. Be sure to check on the temperature before your trip.
3. If you are not fussy about your accommodation, low-priced youth hostels will save you a tidy sum.
4. Local tour operators are abound in Vietnam so take your time to compare the prices and itinerary amongst the stiff competition. Handspans Tour and Sinh Café Travel are reliable ones to look out for.
5. If you prefer to join a tour group, try Commonwealth Travel Service Corporation. If you're a SAFRA member, you can enjoy your perks here!
6. If you are not sure how much of their local currency, dong, to change, set aside US dollars as the locals are more than happy to accept it as a second currency.

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