Vietnam’s festivals provide a deeper look into the country’s traditions and spiritual beliefs. Tet, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, is the most significant celebration, marked by family gatherings, fireworks, and special foods like bánh chưng (sticky rice cake). The Perfume Pagoda Festival, held in Hanoi, attracts thousands of pilgrims who journey to a sacred Buddhist temple in the mountains. In April, the Hue Festival showcases Vietnam’s imperial history with traditional performances, dragon boat races, and royal ceremonies. The Hoi An Lantern Festival, held every full moon, transforms the ancient town into a magical scene filled with glowing lanterns floating along the river.
Vietnam is a country of vibrant festivals, with celebrations taking place year-round. The most important is Tet Nguyen Dan (Vietnamese New Year), a week-long festival marked by family reunions, dragon dances, and firework displays. The Mid-Autumn Festival is a magical time for children, with lantern parades and mooncakes filling the streets. In the highlands, the Gau Tao Festival of the H’mong people is a joyous event featuring traditional music, dance, and sports. Each region has its own unique celebrations, from the buffalo fighting festivals in Do Son to the whale worship festivals of coastal fishing villages. Attending a Vietnamese festival offers a deep dive into the country’s cultural richness.
For travelers seeking luxury and relaxation, Vietnam boasts world-class resorts and spas. Da Nang is home to beachfront resorts like the InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, which offers stunning views and five-star amenities. Nha Trang is another top destination for luxury, with resorts featuring infinity pools and private beaches. Phu Quoc Island’s eco-resorts blend seamlessly with nature, providing a tranquil retreat. In Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, upscale hotels like the Sofitel Legend Metropole and The Reverie Saigon offer a mix of colonial charm and modern elegance. Vietnam’s spa culture is also worth experiencing, with traditional herbal treatments and hot stone massages available in most cities.
Vietnam is a paradise for food lovers, and its street food culture is one of the best in the world. In every city, from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, vendors set up stalls on bustling sidewalks, serving dishes that are packed with flavor and history. Pho, Vietnam’s national dish, is a must-try, with its fragrant broth, rice noodles, and tender beef or chicken. Banh mi, a Vietnamese sandwich influenced by French cuisine, is a delightful combination of crispy baguette, pickled vegetables, and savory fillings. Other street food favorites include bun cha (grilled pork with vermicelli), banh xeo (crispy Vietnamese pancakes), and fresh spring rolls. Each region has its own specialties, such as Hue’s spicy bun bo Hue or Hoi An’s unique cao lầu noodles, making Vietnam a never-ending culinary adventure.
Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, is a city steeped in history, tradition, and breathtaking architecture. The Hue Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO-listed site, offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Vietnam’s Nguyen Dynasty, with its vast courtyards, ornate temples, and royal residences. Beyond the citadel, visitors can explore the Thien Mu Pagoda, a seven-story Buddhist temple overlooking the Perfume River. Hue is also home to several majestic royal tombs, including the Tomb of Khai Dinh and the Tomb of Minh Mang, showcasing intricate architecture and beautiful landscapes. One of Hue’s unique cultural experiences is its royal cuisine, featuring elaborate dishes once served to emperors, such as bánh khoái (crispy pancake) and cơm hến (clam rice). Taking a boat ride along the Perfume River at sunset is the perfect way to end a day of exploration in this historic city.
