The must-see sights of Vietnam

09 October 2023

Vietnam is a country that leaves no one unmoved or unchanged – we guarantee that this destination will open your eyes and change your perspective. It’s a remarkably diverse country – a kaleidoscope of beaches, markets, mountain tribes, and motorbike rides, along with a rich history that manifests itself everywhere from incense-scented pagodas to touching war sites. As such, it can only be fully appreciated with an immersive tour taking in different places, to ensure you experience all the highlights and fabulous array of activities on offer.

We’ve shared some of our favourite things to see and do in Vietnam. All of which we can combine in a bespoke tour fully tailored to you, and including transport, accommodation, and English-speaking guides who can help you get under the skin of this intoxicating destination.

Tours might be foodie-focused, history-based, remote adventures in search of hill tribes from whom you might learn about traditional ways of life, beach breaks - or a combination of these. We could also include some, or all of them, on an itinerary around Southeast Asia, including a stop-off in Vietnam.

Cruise Halong Bay

The best way of discovering this Northeast Vietnamese UNESCO World Heritage site, with its rainforest-topped, towering limestone islands and wonderful snorkelling, is by small cruise boat, where you can spend a magical night aboard as part of your experience. You can also go kayaking here and visit a fishing farm where you can chat with the fishermen and find out all about their work and daily lives.

Discover the capital, Hanoi

With its hectic Old Quarter, Dong Xuan Market, and lovely temples, this charming North Vietnamese city with its mix of Southeast Asian, Chinese, and French influences begs to be explored in depth. We can set you up with a fascinating city tour taking you to the must-sees of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Presidential Palace, Temple of Literature, and Hoa Lo Prison.

Hike the Mai Chau Valley

In the northwest region about 135km from Hanoi, this lush mountainous landscape has trails of varying lengths, routes, and levels, through rice fields, jungle areas, and traditional villages that feel lost in time. We can even fix you up with a guide for a trekking route taking several days, staying in Vietnamese family homes.

Explore Ho Chi Minh City

Formerly Saigon, this southern city is one of the most exciting in all Vietnam, with lovely French Colonial architecture, fantastic street food, and an evolving craft beer scene. Among its top sights are the Jade Emperor Pagoda, the War Remnants Museum, and Binh Tay Market.

Cycle the Mekong Delta

Floating markets and Khmer pagodas dot this region of Southern Vietnam, with its maze of rivers, swamps, and islands, surrounded by rice paddies. Bikes are a great way to see all the fascinating trades and activities underway along its waterways, as is cruising on a hand-rowed sampan beneath the shadow of the water coconut trees lining the natural canals. Tours tend to start from Ho Chi Minh City or bustling Can Tho in the heart of the delta.

Relax in Nha Trang

This is the perfect destination for sun seekers, with around 300 days of sunshine a year. A beautiful coastal resort city in Southern Vietnam, it’s a place to relax, feast on delicious seafood, and snorkel at several sites off its gorgeous beaches or around the 19 surrounding islands with their nature reserves and coral reefs.

To book your bespoke Vietnam tour, call your Travel Counsellor today.

Why Shizuoka, Japan, deserves to be on your bucket list

10 February 2026

Shizuoka is one of those places that quietly delivers on everything people love about Japan, without the intensity that often comes with it. Perfectly placed on the Golden Route between Tokyo and Kyoto, it’s easy to reach yet rarely feels overrun. This is a region where everyday life and travel experiences blend naturally, giving you space to explore at your own pace, whether that’s over a long weekend or as part of a wider journey across the country.

A modern take on Kyoto tradition at Capella Kyoto

09 February 2026

Kyoto’s Gion district is well-known for its heritage and character. Capella Kyoto places guests right in the heart of this cultural scene, surrounded by genuine traditions and the real rhythm of Kyoto life. With celebrated landmarks on all sides - Miyagawa-cho Kaburenjo, where geiko and maiko keep age-old performing arts alive, Kenninji Temple, a peaceful retreat and the city’s oldest Zen Buddhist temple, and Ebisu Shrine for good fortune - every walk from the hotel gives you an immediate sense of the history of this part of Japan.

A family-friendly way to experience Mount Fuji

09 February 2026

Japan has a way of rewarding travellers who slow down, and Hanz Outdoor Resort is especially well suited to families looking for space and ease. Set in the Lake Kawaguchiko area, it offers clear views of Mount Fuji while remaining straightforward to reach from Tokyo. Rather than packing days with long journeys, families can settle into one place and let the mountain become part of daily life, from relaxed mornings to evenings spent outdoors together. It’s a base that works just as well for first visits to Japan as it does for families returning to explore further.