The Destination
The morning air in Hoi An smells of woodsmoke and river mud, mixed with the sweet perfume of incense drifting from temple altars. Lanterns still flicker from the night before as shopkeepers slide open wooden shutters, revealing bolts of silk and lacquerware. This is Vietnam at its most atmospheric — a country where ancient traditions and breathtaking landscapes collide with the relentless energy of modern life.
Vietnam is having a moment, and it’s not hard to see why. From the jagged limestone pillars of Ha Long Bay to the emerald rice terraces of Sapa, the country is a visual feast for any traveler — especially those with a camera in hand. But beyond the postcard views, what makes Vietnam truly special right now is its accessibility. Visas are straightforward, infrastructure is improving rapidly, and the cost of travel remains remarkably low compared to other Southeast Asian destinations. Whether you’re a backpacker sleeping in hostels for $10 a night or a luxury traveler booking a suite in a colonial-era hotel, Vietnam delivers experiences that feel both authentic and extraordinary.
What surprised me most on my last trip was how much the country has changed since I first visited a decade ago. High-speed trains now connect major cities, rural roads are paved, and Wi-Fi is fast even in remote villages. Yet despite the modernization, the heart of Vietnam remains intact — the chaotic charm of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, the serene beauty of the Mekong Delta, and the warmth of a people who welcome visitors with genuine hospitality.
Getting There & Getting Around
Flying into Vietnam is easier than ever. Major international airports in Hanoi (Noi Bai), Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat), and Da Nang serve direct flights from most Asian hubs, plus connections from Europe, North America, and Australia. Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa — but the e-visa system is fast and reliable. Apply online at least a week before your trip, and you’ll get a 30-day single-entry visa for around $25. For longer stays, a visa on arrival requires a pre-approval letter from a travel agency.
Once you’re in the country, getting around is an adventure in itself. The train network is my personal favorite — the Reunification Express runs the length of the country from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, offering sleeper berths that are surprisingly comfortable. A soft sleeper from Hanoi to Da Nang costs about $40 and takes 15 hours, but the views of the coast and countryside are worth every minute. Domestic flights are cheap and fast — Vietnam Airlines, VietJet, and Bamboo Airways compete on popular routes like Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City for as little as $30 one-way. For short distances, buses and minivans are plentiful, though they can be cramped and bumpy. Renting a motorbike is the ultimate freedom — but only if you have experience. Vietnamese traffic is chaotic, and insurance may not cover foreign riders.
The best time to visit depends on where you’re going. Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long Bay) is best from October to April, when the weather is cool and dry. Central Vietnam (Hoi An, Da Nang, Hue) shines from February to August, avoiding the rainy season. The south (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta) is warm year-round, with a dry season from November to April. If you’re trying to cover multiple regions, plan for at least two weeks — and be prepared for the weather to change dramatically as you move.
The Experience
Start in Hanoi, where the Old Quarter’s narrow streets are a sensory overload of motorbikes, street food, and French colonial architecture. Don’t miss a bowl of pho from a street stall — the broth is simmered for hours with beef bones and star anise, and it costs about $2. For a deeper dive into Vietnamese cuisine, take a cooking class in the countryside outside Hanoi, where you’ll visit a local market and learn to make spring rolls and banana flower salad.
From Hanoi, head east to Ha Long Bay. Yes, it’s touristy, but there’s a reason. The limestone karsts rising from emerald waters are genuinely awe-inspiring. Book a two-day cruise on a traditional junk boat — prices start at $150 per person for a mid-range option, including meals, kayaking, and a visit to a floating village. For a less crowded alternative, consider Bai Tu Long Bay, just to the north, which offers similar scenery with fewer boats.
In central Vietnam, Hoi An is a must. The ancient town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its lantern-lit streets are magical at night. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Fujian Assembly Hall, and the local market. For a unique experience, take a basket boat ride through the Bay Mau Coconut Forest — local boatmen will spin you in circles and show you how to catch crabs. It’s touristy but genuinely fun, and the mangroves are beautiful at sunset. Hoi An is also famous for its tailor shops — you can have a custom suit or dress made in 24 hours for around $100.
Just a short drive away, My Son Sanctuary offers a completely different vibe. These Hindu temple ruins, built by the Champa Kingdom between the 4th and 13th centuries, are often called the "Angkor Wat of Vietnam." The site is smaller and less crowded, but the red brick towers and intricate carvings are hauntingly beautiful. Go early in the morning to avoid the heat and the tour groups.
Further south, Ho Chi Minh City is a dynamic metropolis where skyscrapers tower over French colonial landmarks. Ben Thanh Market is chaotic but worth a visit for souvenirs and street food — bargaining is expected, so start at half the asking price. For a quieter escape, take a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground passages used during the Vietnam War. It’s a sobering but important experience.
Costs & Budget
Vietnam is one of the best value destinations in the world. Here’s a realistic breakdown:
- **Budget traveler ($25-40/day)**: Dorm bed in a hostel ($8-12), street food for all meals ($5-10), local bus or train for transport, and free attractions like temples and markets.
- **Mid-range traveler ($60-100/day)**: Private room in a guesthouse or boutique hotel ($25-50), restaurant meals ($10-20), domestic flights or private taxis, and a few paid activities like cooking classes or boat tours.
- **Splurge traveler ($150+/day)**: Luxury hotels or resorts ($80-200), fine dining ($30-50), private drivers or first-class train, and exclusive experiences like a private Ha Long Bay cruise or a spa day.
Hidden costs to watch for: Visa fees (up to $50 depending on type), entrance fees to attractions (Ha Long Bay: $30, My Son: $15, Cu Chi Tunnels: $10), and tips for guides or drivers (not expected but appreciated). ATMs are widely available, but withdrawal fees can add up — bring some cash for small purchases.
For Travel Creators
Vietnam is a creator’s dream. The landscapes are dramatic, the street life is colorful, and the light is golden at sunrise and sunset. Here are my top tips for capturing it on camera:
- **Best spots for footage**: Ha Long Bay from a kayak or the top deck of a junk boat; Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets after dark; the rice terraces of Sapa during harvest season (September-October); and the bustling markets of Ho Chi Minh City.
- **Lighting considerations**: Shoot early morning (6-8 AM) for soft light and fewer crowds. Sunset is also beautiful, especially on the water. Midday sun is harsh — use that time for indoor scenes or B-roll of markets.
- **Local permissions**: In general, filming in public places is fine, but always ask before filming individuals, especially monks or ethnic minorities. Some temples and museums prohibit tripods or drones — check ahead.
- **Storytelling angles**: Don’t just show the sights — capture the sounds and smells. Record ambient audio of street vendors, motorbikes, and temple bells. Interview locals if you can — a 30-second clip of a noodle seller talking about her family adds depth to your video.
- **Gear recommendations**: A versatile zoom lens (24-70mm) is ideal for street photography and landscapes. A lightweight tripod is essential for night shots. If you’re flying a drone, check local regulations — Vietnam has strict no-fly zones near airports and military areas.
Should You Go?
Absolutely. Vietnam is one of the most rewarding destinations in Southeast Asia, offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural depth, and affordability that’s hard to beat. It’s perfect for solo travelers — the hostel scene is social, and the food is easy to navigate even if you don’t speak Vietnamese. Families will appreciate the variety of activities, from boat rides to cooking classes, though the traffic and noise in cities can be overwhelming. Luxury seekers can find world-class resorts in Da Nang, Phu Quoc, and Nha Trang, while backpackers will love the budget-friendly guesthouses and street food.
My only caution: Don’t try to see everything in one trip. Vietnam is long and diverse — focus on one or two regions and go deep. You’ll leave wanting more, and that’s the best reason to come back.
