Vietnam is a fantastic shopping destination, offering everything from handcrafted souvenirs to modern fashion. The Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit for local goods, including silk scarves, lacquerware, and traditional ao dai dresses. Hanoi’s Dong Xuan Market is known for its textiles and handicrafts, while the city’s boutique stores sell high-quality handmade leather bags and ceramics. Hoi An is the best place to get custom-tailored clothing, with hundreds of skilled tailors ready to create suits, dresses, and shoes within a few days. Art lovers should explore the galleries in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where local artists sell unique paintings and calligraphy.
Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in its many traditional craft villages, where artisans have preserved their skills for generations. Bat Trang, near Hanoi, is famous for its exquisite ceramics and pottery, with workshops allowing visitors to try their hand at making their own pieces. In Hoi An, Kim Bong carpentry village is known for its intricate woodwork, while Thanh Ha pottery village produces beautiful terracotta sculptures. The silk-weaving village of Van Phuc showcases the artistry behind Vietnam’s finest silk garments. These villages not only offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s craftsmanship but also provide unique souvenirs that carry a piece of the country’s history and culture.
For travelers seeking an epic road trip, Vietnam’s Hai Van Pass offers one of the most scenic coastal routes in the world. Stretching over 20 kilometers between Da Nang and Hue, the pass winds through misty mountains, providing spectacular views of the South China Sea. The drive itself is an adventure, with hairpin turns and panoramic viewpoints that are perfect for photography. Along the way, travelers can stop at Lang Co Beach, a stunning stretch of white sand and turquoise water. The Hai Van Gate, an ancient fortification at the summit, offers insight into the region’s historical significance. Whether you rent a motorbike or take a guided tour, traversing Hai Van Pass is a must-do experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Vietnam is home to 54 ethnic groups, each with its own distinct traditions, languages, and customs. In the northern mountains, the H’mong and Dao people are known for their intricate embroidery and colorful textiles. In the Central Highlands, the Bana and Ede tribes maintain ancient gong music traditions, recognized as a UNESCO cultural heritage. The Cham people, descendants of the ancient Champa civilization, practice a unique form of Hindu-influenced culture in southern Vietnam. Visiting these ethnic communities provides an opportunity to witness traditional crafts, participate in local festivals, and experience homestays in traditional stilt houses. The best places to explore ethnic culture include Sapa, Ha Giang, and the remote villages of Dak Lak province.
For travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures, Pu Luong Nature Reserve is a hidden gem in northern Vietnam. Located about 150 km from Hanoi, Pu Luong offers spectacular terraced rice fields, traditional stilt-house villages, and lush jungles. Unlike Sapa, which has become more touristy, Pu Luong remains relatively untouched, providing an authentic experience of rural Vietnam. Trekking through Pu Luong’s valleys brings travelers into close contact with ethnic minority communities like the Thai and Muong people, who maintain their traditional way of life. The highlight of a Pu Luong trek is the breathtaking views from Hieu Waterfall, where visitors can swim in crystal-clear waters. Staying in an eco-lodge or homestay allows visitors to truly immerse themselves in the serene beauty and slow-paced lifestyle of this pristine region.
