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sandinista445 · Joined: 30 Oct 2004 Posts: 136 Location: 世界

I am thinking of travelling to Vietnam this year and was wondering which places to visit. Which places would you consider to be the most scenic (beautiful beaches, old architecture, etc.)? Which places did you enjoy the most?

Murzel · Joined: 11 May 2005 Posts: 10

Hoi An is a magical little town, which is where the the first trading-post the Portuguese (and then other Europeans) established was in the 16th century. A lively atmosphere of antiquity, and every 14th of the month they have a festival. Both the Americans and the Vietnamese avoided involving and bombing it during the war, so the buildings have survived intact.

Hotels are a bit expensive but good quality I found. The locals in Hue recommend shopping in Hoi An too, as there is a good selection and the shop-keepers generally have a bit more respect than at places like the Marble Mountains, spectacular though the caves are (the ones you don't have time to see on the tourist bus circus).

My Son is nice too especially if you hire a motorbike with driver, and get there early. Just ask any xe om driver in Hoi An - I paid $8 for a return half-day trip, although I paid extra for a detour to the Marble Mountains. Easy to arrange.

countdown · Joined: 15 Jul 2004 Posts: 70

If it's beaches you want, try Phu Quoc island, an hour's flight from HCMC (1 million dong return). The water is clear and clean and warm and the beaches are deserted. There are a number of places to stay and guys waiting at the airport to show you and/or give you info. We've been there twice - the first time we stayed at the Beach Club. Nothing fancy but clean and cheap ($17 for a beachfront bungalow and brek), very quiet and owned by a Brit (Mike) and his lovely Vietnamese wife. The last time we stayed at the Tropicana - slightly more upmarket with a pool and larger restaurant - $50 for a beachfront bungalow. The best beach on the island is Sao Beach on the East side - rent a bike and go or take a taxi or minibus from your hotel. Fresh seafood cooked at your table, sand like white powder and warm, clear, clean water - paradise!!!!!