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.

Singapore through the seasons: why there’s always something to celebrate

10 August 2026

Singapore may be compact, but its calendar is packed with celebrations that can transform an already memorable city break into something even more special. Throughout the year, its neighbourhoods are illuminated by festival lights, the Marina Bay skyline becomes the backdrop for fireworks and motor racing, and streets fill with parades, markets, music, and food. Many events reflect Singapore’s multicultural identity, giving visitors the chance to experience Chinese, Malay, Indian, and international traditions within the same city. You don’t necessarily need to plan your entire holiday around one event, either. Time your visit well, and Singapore’s annual celebrations can add colour, flavour, and a real sense of occasion to the attractions, restaurants, and neighbourhoods already on your itinerary.

Why Portugal is the perfect destination for every type of traveller

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Some destinations ask you to choose between a city break and a beach holiday, culture and nature, or relaxation and adventure. Portugal makes it surprisingly easy to experience them all. Its size means you can explore Lisbon’s historic neighbourhoods, unwind beside the Atlantic, taste wine among the terraces of the Douro Valley, and hike through mountain or volcanic landscapes, sometimes within the same trip. Add a mild climate, warm hospitality, and a distinctive regional food scene, and it is easy to understand why so many people return to discover a different side of the country. Whether you are planning your first visit or looking for fresh inspiration, there is a version of Portugal to suit almost every kind of holiday.

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If you’re dreaming of a journey that blends adventure, nature, and authenticity, Costa Rica deserves a spot at the top of your list. With its rainforests, striking volcanoes, and pristine coastline, this Central American gem perfectly captures the relaxed pura vida way of life. What truly sets it apart, though, is the extraordinary range of wildlife that calls it home. From sleepy sloths to migrating whales, Costa Rica offers some of the most remarkable animal encounters on Earth. Here are five you won’t want to miss…

The must-see sights of Vietnam

Singapore through the seasons: why there’s always something to celebrate

Why Portugal is the perfect destination for every type of traveller

Five unforgettable wildlife encounters in Costa Rica

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