The ideal places to go surfing in Vietnam

If you have seen Apocalypse Now, you already know that you can surf in Vietnam. The country has over 3000 kilometers of beautiful coastline, and the best waves are found going down the South Central Coast. Here are the best spots to go surfing.

Nha Trang

Nha Trang is the next popular surf stop as you start moving south from Da Nang. This is a coastal city full of luxury getaways, high-rise beachside resorts, and expensive seafood. While Da Nang is the surfing capital of Vietnam, Nha Trang holds the title of being the diving capital of the country. That does not mean you cannot surf though, especially during Southeast Asian typhoon season (November to March). When the typhoons from the Philippines bring storms along the Nha Trang coast, you will find nice swells in the water that make surfing ideal for any level of experience.

Da Nang

Da Nang is the epicenter of surfing in Vietnam, thanks to its warm climate and long stretches of beach with great waves that break all year round. Surf season in Da Nang is around September to March, where average water temperatures are 80°F (27 °C).

My Khe Beach has a long sandy coast that stretches 18 miles (30 kilometers) southward from Da Nang center. The beach is the most popular area for surfing among expats and is growing in popularity among the locals. The conditions are perfect for beginners to learn the sport, but there are occasional dangerous rips for thrill-seekers. Nam O Point and Non Nuoc Beach are two other popular spots in Da Nang with high-quality waves to get your surf on.

Vung Tau

Vung Tau is a serious surf destination in Vietnam and only 55 miles (90 kilometers) southeast of Ho Chi Minh City, so it is a popular expat weekend getaway. Basically, the whole length of the beach is surfable, but instead of catching mediocre swells at the front beach, head over to the back beach. Many say that the back beach is one of the best surf spots in the whole country. It is about a two-mile (three-kilometer) long stretch of sand with numerous unnamed and un-surfed breaks. You will find the back beach past the “Rio” Jesus statue, to the right of the Pagode Island.

The beach-break waves are powerful and suitable for all levels of surfers, and it is best to surf them during the winter. The mornings are ideal because the wind is not so strong and the tide is low. When the wind is high, try some kite surfing.

Mui Ne

Mui Ne is one of the best places to kite surf in the whole of Southeast Asia, as there is a lot of wind, so the waves here are generally wind swell. That is, unless there is a monster storm somewhere close by, which can be pretty likely because, well, Vietnam.

Hon Rom Beach is the most popular beach in the city, and the waves here work best during October to May. The strip is also large enough to find your own spot to surf at, but a key to finding the best waves is to look for other surfers so you can join them. The best spot to surf at is Suoi Nuoc Beach, which is on the way to the white sand dunes. The waves here are best from July to October.

See more: Catch a glimpse of Vietnam

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5 cities you should visit in the South of Vietnam

When visiting a new country with a limited number of days, travelers should choose a region and explore it. For travelers heading to the South of Vietnam, these are five can’t-miss cities.

Ho Chi Minh City

The economic backbone of Vietnam and the nation’s largest metropolis, Ho Chi Minh is one of the most fun places to visit in the country. The sprawling city is officially home to some 8 million residents, yet in reality, it’s far more populous than that. The central business zone or District 1 is the area of the city that’s most traveled by tourists. However, for the adventurous types, head to the less explored, more authentic and interesting neighboring districts: Binh Thanh, Phu Nhuan or District 3. The city is home to a number of great centrally-located museums, endless shopping and vibrant nightlife. Anyone spending time in Ho Chi Minh should explore Nguyen Hue, Ben Thanh Market, Bui Vien, the Bitexco Tower, the seafood restaurants along the canal and Binh Thanh’s maze of alleys.

Nha Trang

The most famous beach town in Vietnam, Nha Trang is an increasingly popular destination for foreign tourists. Lively nightlife and excellent seafood make a great addition to the white sand beaches and calm blue sea. Scuba diving has skyrocketed in popularity in the area and the bay is warm and clear year round. The city is one of the more family-friendly destinations in Vietnam, home to a number of amusement parks, water parks and resorts. For an unparalleled view, take a ride on the mile-long Vinpearl Cable Car.

Can Tho

Can Tho is the largest city in the Mekong Delta and home to some of the country’s most interesting markets. The commercially-friendly location along the banks of the Hau River has made this an important trading center for centuries. Anyone visiting should set aside a day to rise early and visit the wholesale Cai Rang Floating Market and the retail Phong Dien Floating Market. A day trip exploring the numerous narrow canals and tributaries of the region, with stops in rice paper factories and crocodile or python farms, is also highly recommended.

Phan Thiet

A lively fishing port along Vietnam’s South Central Coast, Phan Thiet serves some of the best seafood in the country. Spend the day exploring the mishmash of streets surrounding the colorful harbor. Just north of the city center lies the increasingly well-traveled ward of Mui Ne, famed for its Sahara-esque sand dunes and miles of picturesque coastline. Like almost everywhere in Vietnam, the best way to explore is on two wheels. Those with a motorbike should also take the opportunity to ride south from the city along the great coastal roads.

Da Lat

Check out this cool mountain escape when motorbike madness becomes too much. Da Lat can be reached by bus or motorbike from the country’s largest urban center in 4–6 hours and is a peaceful pine-scented alternative to Saigon’s concrete sprawl. The city itself can be explored in a day; just make sure not to miss the central market, or Hang Nga Guesthouse. The outlying areas offer even more to see. The region is the epicenter of Vietnam’s enormous coffee industry and the hills and valleys surrounding the city are blanketed in coffee plantations. For nature lovers, the areas’ forests offer some great canyoning through dense valleys and over misty waterfalls. On the way in or out of the city, make sure to stop at Elephant Falls, the most famous waterfall in the Central Highlands.

See more: Top 5 places for hiking near Saigon

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Top markets in Nha Trang, Vietnam

Nha Trang is no different from other cities of Vietnam that has got a great selection of local markets for travelers to explore and try their luck at bargaining. Here is some info on Nha Trang’s best markets.

Dam Market

Dam Market (Cho Dam) is the largest and most popular one of all. With three floors full of stalls and boutique shops to explore, Dam Market is a bit of an overwhelming experience, but nevertheless a must-do. It is part tourist souvenir market and part local market. You will find all sorts of merch, from clothes, shoes and bags to tourist trinkets, art, designer knockoffs, electronics, dried and packaged foods and food stalls. The dried seafood section is worth your time, because you will find some of Nha Trang’s most famous local specialties such as dried shrimp, squid and cuttlefish.

Since this is a very popular destination for most tourists, prices may be a little inflated when quoted to you. Get your bargaining skills ready. However, do try not to haggle too much. Remember that a dollar to us may be worth a meal to the locals. To avoid tourists and get a more local experience, visit early in the morning. Early hours are when Nha Trang’s residents go shopping. Plus, it’s a great way to avoid the midday heat.

Xom Moi Market

For a more raw, local experience, head to Xoi Moi Market (Cho Xom Moi). Locals come here to shop for their groceries, household equipment and whatever else they need in their everyday life. Xom Moi Market is situated a little further away from the center of the city, so you’re gonna have to wake up a little early to get there around 7 a.m. which is when the market comes to life. You can enjoy a delicious breakfast here from the array of Vietnamese dishes the vendors sell in their stalls. These include pho, the de-facto national dish of Vietnam, and a local specialty called ‘bun ca’, a fish soup with rice vermicelli and fish balls. Don’t forget to buy some delicious fruits such as mangosteen (seasonal), milkfruit, rambutan and mango. If you do not like the smell of durian, you should probably avoid the food section or just hold your nose as you walk past.

Vinh Hai Market

While other markets are great if you enjoy being surrounded by locals going about their day, Vinh Hai Market (Cho Vinh Hai) serves those who prefer to steer clear of the crowds. Vinh Hai Market is not only smaller, but it is also more local than the other two mentioned above. Perhaps you may even be the sole foreigner around. Don’t be afraid if curious locals come up and talk to you. Since the market is not touristy, you won’t find as much merch as you might you find in typical tourist markets, like souvenirs or fake branded items. You will get the real authentic stuff, and for a much cheaper price.

Nha Trang Night Market

Of course, as with any other city in Vietnam, Nha Trang has a night market. What’s a little odd though is that it opens at 9 a.m., however it is most lively after the sun goes down. If during the day you were busy exploring all the beach that Nha Trang has to offer, and forgot to do some shopping, then the night market will be your chance. Like Dam Market, souvenirs, cheap clothes and all kinds of novelty items are sold in the stalls that line up and down the street. The night market will certainly be a great walk after a filling seafood dinner on the way to your next venue – possibly a pub to spend the night away.

See more: A day trip in Vinpearl Land, Nha Trang

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Top amazing water parks in Vietnam

Summer is here and there is no better time than now to visit a Water Park. It is the perfect place not only for children but for you adults as well to let go of your inhibitions and scream your head off on super-steep water slides, basically have lots of uninterrupted fun with your family and friends.

Vietnam has some of the best water parks in the world, and two of them, Suoi Tien Theme Park and West Lake Water Park were even featured on Buzzfeed US’s “Ridiculously Cool” Water Parks List.

Ho Tay Water Park, Ha Noi

Inaugurating on 19 May 2000, Ho Tay Water Park used to be a phenomenal at that time which was the first rank attraction in not only Ha Noi but also Northern Vietnam. Huge amount of investment brings to this 35,560 m2 complex the most modern facility in the South East Asia at the time.

Visitors seeking for strong high surf do not need to go to the seas because Ho Tay Water Park features a 3m depth wave-making pool with its waves of 1,2m high. Extreme experiences can be collected in a system of swinging ropes and diving pool of 3,5m in depth. For ones enjoy relaxing moment may lay on a buoy, then let the artificial currents of the 450m long “lazy-stream” drive you around the park while sunbathing and sightseeing the poetic West Lake outside the complex. Children are prioritized with a large area well designed with funny cartoon characters and colorful lanes of lower height. Near this zone are a wide array of food and drink serving stalls as well as many eye-catching fountains and statue for taking photos.

Suoi Tien Water Park, Saigon

Despite being quite far away from the downtown center of Ho Chi Minh City (about 40km), Suoi Tien (Fairy Stream) is still a deserving amusement park for your Vietnam day trips. It derives from a legend that there were seven beautiful girls died and magically became fairies in this area, which was also the inspiration for building and developing such a large amusement park as you see nowadays.

As for the structure and design of the park, it is easy to realize the Oriental architectural elements everywhere, ranging from statues, buildings to outdoor games; all are based on Vietnamese’s oriental beliefs and represent their desire for happiness, fortune, and wealth. Besides entertainment games, here is also where you can take a chance to experience traditional activities as well as cultural festivals, e.g. Hung King Anniversary, Lunar New Year, and Mid-Autumn Moon Festival.

Dam Sen Water Park, Saigon

Dam Sen Water Park in Saigon is divided into 30 parts, and features several activities, restaurants, and shows including a floating restaurant and a lake similar to West Lake where you can fish. There is even more such as a puppet show, a bird garden, a sports center, a water park of course and the Nam Tu Royal Garden.

A trip to a Water Park should be a mandatory event for every family, the adrenaline rushes and fun there simply cannot be matched anywhere else. There is something very relaxing about floating down on one of the ‘Lazy Rivers’ that make you feel as if the waves were carrying all your stress away.

Vinpearl Land Nha Trang Amusement Park, Khanh Hoa

Another fantastic attraction in Vietnam is The Vinpearl Land Nha Trang Amusement Park, which is designed to be an independent recreational area and is conveniently linked to the 5-Star International Vinpearl Resort. The Water Park is proud to accommodate South Asia’s biggest wave pool and if you thought that was impressive, wait till you hear this, Vinpearl Land Nha Trang is also home to the longest sea cable car in the world.

The water slides in the park operate on a timely schedule so grab a copy beforehand to ensure you do not miss out on anything. There are numerous water slides for you to enjoy and if you need a quick break then you can relax on the all year round blue sea while enjoying a panoramic view. The aquarium there is also worth a visit as it features a conveyor belt which moves under a body of water holding a variety of aquatic creatures.

Read more: Top markets in Nha Trang, Vietnam

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The ideal destinations for summer in Vietnam

If you have a plan to travel to Vietnam in summer but not know where to go. Just check some attractive places that are well worth taking a visit. It will be the best choice for tourists when coming to Vietnam in the hot wet season.

Nha Trang

Nha Trang is renowned for its crescent-shaped coastline, pristine beaches, and turquoise bay. The bay is dotted with small islands and is surrounded by an array of hills. Those visiting this part of Vietnam in summer can also enjoy windsurfing, parasailing, undersea walking, and fly-boarding.

Mui Ne

This tourist attraction of Phan Thiet has been famous for its long white sandy coastal line, crystal-like water and endless lines of green coconut trees. There are plenty of best places that you must visit in June whilst in Mui Ne, such as Hon Rom beach, Fairy Spring, Cham Temple – Poshanu, fish market.
Not only will you have the opportunity to contemplate the beautiful scenery, but also to try many different water activities such as kite surfing or scuba diving. And do not forget to taste various delicious seafood dishes which as well are the pride of the residents here.

Da Lat

Da Lat is not too hot in comparison to other cities in Vietnam in June. It offers travelers the best weather, fun shopping, great food and a surprising number of wonderful places to visit. In this city of thousands of flowers, you may find the French colonial buildings, deeper island, pagoda and temples interesting and also many waterfalls and hill-tribe villages amazing. The best places to visit include Love Valley, Mong Mo Hill, Than Tho Lake, Da Lat Cathedral, Bao Dai Palace and Elephant Falls.

You will never run out of activities to amuse yourself in Da Lat. There are plenty of activities to choose such as biking, hiking, cruising, or simply enjoying the fresh and cool air. Da Lat offers a lot more interesting outdoor and indoor activities, especially in the summer.

Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc is yet another beach destination for a summer in Vietnam. The largest island in Vietnam can be accessed by ship or plane. Khem Beach, Sao Beach, Ham Ninh fishing village, splendid corals, and unique seafood dishes make it a perfect summer getaway.

Ha Long Bay

The UNESCO-listed world heritage site of Ha Long Bay needs to be on the itinerary of every traveler, especially if one is visiting Vietnam in summer or spring. The destination is most famous for the cruise tours past the towering limestone islands topped by rainforests. However, those visiting in summers can discover the bay in an entirely different way. Tourists can relax on the shores, visit the cool caves, swim in the glittering waters, or take a seaplane ride.

Read more: Top 10 activities in Ha Long Bay

Sapa

Sapa is rated as one of the most dramatic nature mountain sites in the northeast of Vietnam. It lies at an altitude of about 1500 meters above sea level, the annual temperature in Sapa town is 15.4°C with a maximum of 29.4°C. Therefore, it is highly seasonal with a subtropical climate and an ideal place to visit in the summer. Sapa is the home to many minority traditional tribal villages, primary the Black Hmong and Dao tribespeople and you can trek through their villages to understand more about the unique local customs.

Visiting Sapa in the summer, you will have a chance to admire the breathtaking view of terraced rice fields. They will turn green to yellow for harvesting season. To get the amazing view, immerse into the pleasant atmosphere or record the images of Sapa town, tourists can go to Tram Ton Pass or Heaven’s Gate, the highest mountain pass in Vietnam.

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Top must-visit attractions in Nha Trang, Vietnam

Nha Trang is a coastal city and capital of Khanh Hoa province. Located on the south-central coast of Vietnam It makes its home on the beautiful Nha Trang Bay, including a total of 19 islets and islands. Fast becoming one of the top destinations in Vietnam, Nha Trang has it all. Empty sandy beaches that stretch for miles, cool waterfalls, ranges of untouched mountains, an interesting history, and a unique culture.

Dam Market

Dam market is the most popular market in Nha Trang and is a huge imposing four-story concrete structure. Inside you will find everything Vietnamese, from clothes and accessories to electronics and household items, spread around various colorful stalls. Head in here in the morning and have some breakfast in the food court to start your day.

Tran Phu Beach

Tran Phu Street running down the coast of Nha Trang is the most popular street in the city, with high-end resorts like Intercontinental and The Sheraton on one side, and a lively beach on the other. There are plenty of beach-side cafes, restaurants, bars and pubs for you to choose from that have their own little bit of beach with reclining chairs and parasols, so find one to suit your tastes and spend an evening lazing about.

See more: Nha Trang, paradise on earth

Po Nagar

These are some of the best-preserved pieces of Cham architecture in Vietnam, similar to the My Son Temples in Da Nang. Built between the 7th to the 12th centuries, this temple is dedicated to the goddess of the country, Po Nagar, and is still used for worship by the remaining descendants of the Cham culture that once flourished throughout the country.

Nha Trang Cathedral

Nha Trang Cathedral is another still functioning religious monument that also serves as a tourist attraction. Despite being constructed using simple blocks of cement, the cathedral looks surprisingly elegant. Mass is held multiple times a day, and it is a great way to witness differences in religious routines compared to those back home.

National Oceanographic Museum

The National Oceanographic Museum opened in 1922 and is housed in an old French colonial building. Since inception it has allowed visitors to explore the marine life of the region through artifacts, fossils and displays, spread out over two floors. Makes for a great excursion if you have kids.

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Best luxurious resorts in Vietnam

Accommodation in Vietnam ranges from simple dorm accommodation in backpacking hostels to world-class resorts, both in large cities and in popular coastal and rural destinations.

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

Situated right outside the very center of Hanoi, the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi is within a 10-minute walk to Hoan Kiem Lake and the National Museum of Vietnamese History. The hotel offers an outdoor heated pool. Wellness facilities include a Turkish steam bath, a jacuzzi and a spa bath and a relaxing massage session can be requested. Family-friendly rooms are available, big enough to accommodate guests traveling with kids.

Park Hyatt Saigon

The Park Hyatt is situated on Lam Son Square in Ho Chi Minh City providing guests with easy access to such attractions as the Saigon Opera House and the Ho Chi Minh Municipal Theater. The 252 guestrooms available at the Park Hyatt Saigon include amenities such as air-conditioning, cable television, and high-speed Internet access. Guests can also enjoy a swimming pool, a fitness center and a full-service spa, which offers a selection of massages and beauty treatments.

See more: 4 romantic getaways in Vietnam

Evason Ana Mandara Nha Trang

Situated at Nha Trang’s beachfront, the Evason Ana Mandara offers stunning views of Nha Trang Bay. Featuring luxury, elegant design and decor, the luxury resort offers guest rooms that are either situated in the lush tropical gardens or with spectacular views of the sea. Each unit is provided with a Jacuzzi and has free internet access. There are several dining options, from the Pavilion Restaurant that offers Vietnamese and International specialties to the Beach Restaurant where visitors can taste freshest local seafood by the infinity swimming pool.

Bai Tram Hideaway Resort

Properly, peaceful hideaway Bai Tram is a place of such rare beauty you can't believe that you haven't heard before. A sandy bumpy track leads past shacks within roofs aflame with bougainvillea, past a wide mouth of blue water and a rickety bamboo bridge; past shrimp farms and velvet-eyed cows. The road ascends to the entrance, where you climb out of the car to take in the view: a 100-hectare sweep of creamy white sand and green bush encircled by hills, remote and stunning.

See more: 5 most luxurious resorts in Quy Nhon

Pilgrimage Village

The Pilgrimage Village is located 4 miles from Hue’s city center and offers guests a rustic village setting. The luxury resort was renovated in 2007 and offers a blend of local culture, modern art concepts, and traditional Vietnamese style elements. A total of 99 accommodation units are available including 72 deluxe units, 15 honeymoon bungalows, 5 honeymoon pool huts, and 3 traditional Vietnamese pool houses.

Princess d'Annam Resort & Spa

Facing a century-old French lighthouse and placed in a picturesque surrounding amidst magnificent sceneries, the Princess d’Annam Resort is Vietnam’s first all-villa luxury boutique resort. The hotel is situated on the pristine bay of Ke Ga about a 4-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh city. Overlooking the South China Sea, it is features stunning mountains, red canyons, sand dunes and a rich ecosystem. Guests can participate in a wide range of outdoor activities from four-wheel exploration on dirt roads or spectacular mountain raids, to playing at one of Vietnam’s best golf course.

La Residence Hue Hotel & Spa

Located in the heart of Hue, the La Residence Hue Hotel is made up of 122 spacious guestrooms. All of these accommodations are gracefully appointed with a wide array of modern amenities. Enjoyable local, regional, and international cuisine can be appreciated in hotel’s restaurant and guests can sip on their favorite drink at the cozy bar. Visitors can work out in the gymnasium, take a dip in the swimming pool, soak in the sauna or enjoy a variety of spa services.

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