Vietnam. A country of inescapable beauty. A place where colonization and war have permanently altered the local culture. A nation of immensely friendly people who are quick to forgive and know how to make the most delicious of meals. Though tourism to Vietnam was almost unimaginable a few short decades ago, today, a visit to this exotic and fascinating country is one of the most popular of all Asian tours.

Most Vietnam holidays begin in the fertile Mekong Delta, Vietnam’s most prosperous region and home to most of its industry. In this southernmost region of the country, one can enjoy the buzzing atmosphere of Ho Chi Minh City, otherwise known as Saigon, the largest metropolitan area in Vietnam. Alternately, the south offers an escape to the Mekong Delta area, which is considered to be Vietnam’s ‘rice basket’, a lush and largely untouched area of farmland.

From here, go northwards through the densely forested Central Highlands of Vietnam. This region borders on Cambodia and offers the chance to explore some of Vietnam’s indigenous tribes, go elephant trekking and even explore some of the former battlegrounds of the American Vietnam War.

Vietnam’s Central Coast is a narrow corridor of land that comprises the long, skinny bulk of the country and connects its lush, tropical south with the attractive but considerably poorer bay areas in the north. The Central Coast offers a tantalizing array of beaches and seacoasts, as well as charming historic seaside towns and a UNESCO World Heritage listed temple, My Son.

In the north, you’ll finally reach Hanoi, Vietnam’s bustling capital city. The north region of the country borders China and Laos and is home to numerous harbors with stunning coastal views, such as those at the famous Ha Long Bay.