Thailand, Vietnam both popular gems in Southeast Asia

Source: Vietnamnet

Both nations boast a multitude of natural attractions and diverse range of landscapes, from beaches to hills, rivers to dense forests.

According to the media outlet, Vietnam features plenty of mesmerising beauty characteristics, with highlights being the iconic Ha Long Bay, the sandy dunes of Mui Ne, the Tonkinese Alps, and the terraced rice fields of Sa Pa. Pristine lakes, meandering streams, and fascinating cave systems all add to the natural allure.

Concerning the best time to visit the nation, the magazine points out that the north, home to Hanoi and Ha Long Bay, is best visited either from October to November or from March to April. The centre, including Hue and Hoi An, is ideal from January to July, while the south, encompassing Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, is preferable from December to April.

While Thailand and Vietnam share similarities, they each boast unique attractions, from magnificent temples and bustling night markets to white sand beaches and historic sites, the article wrote.

Hanoi in particular offers a beautiful blend of modern culture and ancient history through sites such as the Old Quarter and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, whilst Da Nang where is home to serene beaches, and the historic city of Hue offers visitors a glimpse into Vietnam’s past.

Travel and Leisure Asia suggested that tourists should take part in a plethora of activities in the two countries, from exciting water sports such as snorkeling and diving to invigorating treks through waterfalls and meadows full of wildflowers. Indeed, there are plenty of cave systems and islands to explore and cruises to go on. Enjoying cultural attractions and visiting markets in bustling urban cities are also some of the best things to do in these places.

The travel website also gave a shopping guide for both nations. In Hanoi, guests can explore the night markets for the latest in fashion, with Dong Xuan indoor market offering a diverse range of products from clothes to seafood. In Ho Chi Minh City, Ben Thanh Market is perfect for picking up unique food items, whereas the Cholon Chinatown market is ideal for homemade spices and sauces.

Han Market in Da Nang and the Dinh Cau Night Market in Phu Quoc Island are also ideal for picking up souvenirs, it added.

Vietnamese cuisine contains a lot of seafood, fresh herbs, fish sauce, vegetables, and a lighter use of cooking oil. Some of the most popular Vietnamese delicacies include Pho, Bun Cha, Banh Mi, Cao Lu, and Banh Cuon pancakes, the article concluded./.