Exploring Vietnam
Welcome to Vietnam — a country where natural beauty, diverse cultures, amazing cuisine, and unforgettable experiences come together.
From my hometown region of the Mekong Delta, with its peaceful canals, floating markets, and riverside communities, to the tropical paradise of Phú Quốc Island and the dynamic streets of Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), each destination tells its own unique story.
Journey through Central Vietnam to discover the beautiful beaches of Da Nang, the ancient charm of Hoi An, and the imperial heritage of Hue. Continue north to explore the historic capital of Hanoi, the breathtaking landscapes of Ha Long Bay, and the majestic mountains and traditional ethnic communities of Sapa.
Through The Son Mekong, I share practical travel advice, local knowledge, and personal insights to help you experience Vietnam beyond the typical tourist routes.
Let’s Explore Vietnam by Regions
The Mekong River Delta
Begin our journey in Southern Vietnam — the enchanting Mekong River Delta, one of the most popular destinations for day trips and multi-day adventures from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon).
Just a short drive from the busy city, the Mekong Delta welcomes travelers with a fascinating world of winding rivers, peaceful canals, tropical islands, lush countryside, and warm local communities.
Start your journey in My Tho, where you can cruise along scenic waterways, visit traditional villages, explore local life, and taste regional specialties. Continue to Ben Tre, a charming destination famous for its coconut groves, handcrafted coconut candy, and relaxing sampan rides through narrow canals shaded by tropical greenery.
Travel deeper into the delta to Can Tho, the region’s largest city and home to the famous Cai Rang Floating Market. Wake up early to experience a lively morning scene where boats filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, and local products gather along the river — a unique tradition that has existed for generations.
Beyond the floating markets, discover the delta’s peaceful countryside with visits to tropical fruit orchards, historic houses, traditional villages, and local families who proudly share their culture and hospitality.
Your journey can continue to Chau Doc, a charming riverside town known for its floating fish farms, spiritual sites, and the breathtaking Tra Su Cajuput Forest, one of Vietnam’s most beautiful wetland areas. For adventurous travelers, Chau Doc also serves as a gateway to Cambodia, offering a scenic speedboat journey along the Mekong River to Phnom Penh.
Rich in culture, history, traditions, and natural beauty, the Mekong River Delta offers an authentic glimpse into rural Vietnam and remains one of the country’s most rewarding destinations.
Phú Quốc Island
Known as Vietnam’s tropical paradise, Phú Quốc Island is famous for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, beautiful sunsets, and relaxing island atmosphere.
Among the island’s most popular attractions are the peaceful Sao Beach, stunning Khem Beach, traditional pepper farms, and lively night markets where visitors can experience local food and island life.
Adventure seekers can enjoy one of the world’s longest cable car rides, offering breathtaking panoramic views over the sea and surrounding islands. Phú Quốc is also home to many impressive attractions, including the European-inspired Sunset Town, the colorful Grand World, the expansive Vinpearl Safari, and the exciting VinWonders Theme Park. Beyond these highlights, countless island adventures await, from snorkeling and island hopping to exploring hidden beaches and local villages.
How to Get There
Many international travelers ask how to reach Phú Quốc. The island is easily accessible from different routes.
From Ho Chi Minh City, visitors can travel by flight, or combine a road trip with a boat journey through Ha Tien, a border town near Cambodia. After reaching Ha Tien, an express boat takes you directly to the island.
The fastest and most convenient option is flying. Phú Quốc International Airport receives daily flights from major cities across Vietnam, as well as direct international flights from destinations such as Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, and other countries.
One of Phú Quốc’s advantages is its attractive visa policy for many international visitors arriving by direct international flights, making it one of the most convenient and welcoming island destinations in Vietnam.
Whether you are looking for relaxation, adventure, nature, or unique cultural experiences, Phú Quốc offers the perfect tropical escape.
Ho Chi Minh City: Vietnam’s Dynamic Heartbeat
Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), formerly known as Saigon, is the vibrant economic and cultural heart of Vietnam. A dynamic mix of modernity and rich history, the city offers an exciting blend of architectural landmarks, bustling markets, and immersive experiences.
Start your exploration at the Independence Palace, a significant historical site, followed by the moving War Remnants Museum that offers insight into the country’s turbulent past. For a touch of colonial elegance, visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the majestic Central Post Office, both iconic symbols of the city’s French heritage.
The City Hall, Opera House stand as a reminder of Saigon’s colonial era, while Ben Thanh Market immerses you in a lively marketplace full of local goods, food, and souvenirs. For an unforgettable evening, enjoy a dinner cruise on the Saigon River, offering spectacular views of the skyline and the sparkling city lights.
Ho Chi Minh City is also the gateway to several extraordinary destinations in Southern Vietnam. From here, travelers can journey into the mekong delta,, Explore the fascinating Cu Chi Tunnels, hike Ba Den Mountain, or escape to Vung Tau, Mui Ne, Nha Trang and Da Lat. Most tours in the South begin right here, making Saigon not just a destination but also the perfect starting point for wider adventures.
Ready to explore?
Central Vietnam: Da Nang, Hoi An & Hue
Central Vietnam is home to some of the country’s most iconic destinations, and Da Nang, Hoi An, and Hue create the perfect combination for travelers looking to experience beaches, culture, history, and natural beauty.
Da Nang is a vibrant coastal city known for its long sandy beaches, modern atmosphere, and impressive natural landscapes. One of the city’s most famous attractions is Ba Na Hills, where visitors can enjoy a scenic cable car ride through the mountains and admire the iconic Golden Bridge, an architectural masterpiece supported by giant stone hands that has become a symbol of Vietnam.
Beyond Ba Na Hills, the Marble Mountains offer a fascinating mix of nature, spirituality, caves, and ancient pagodas. Meanwhile, Da Nang’s beautiful beaches provide the perfect place to relax and enjoy stunning views of the East Sea. Thanks to its convenient location, Da Nang is also an excellent gateway for exploring the highlights of Central Vietnam.
Just 30 kilometers away, Hoi An Ancient Town — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — welcomes visitors with its timeless charm. Once a busy international trading port, Hoi An today attracts travelers with its colorful lantern-lit streets, peaceful riverside setting, traditional architecture, and beautifully preserved merchant houses.
Further north, Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, reveals the country’s fascinating royal history. Visitors can explore the impressive Imperial City, a UNESCO-listed complex of palaces, gates, temples, and historic structures that once served as the home of Vietnam’s Nguyen Dynasty emperors.
A relaxing dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River offers another unforgettable experience, with views of ancient pagodas, royal tombs, and peaceful countryside landscapes along the riverbanks.
Together, Da Nang, Hoi An, and Hue showcase the very best of Central Vietnam — a region where natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unforgettable experiences come together.
Hanoi: A Cultural Gem and Gateway to Northern Vietnam
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a city where ancient traditions and modern life come together in a fascinating harmony. With its rich history, charming streets, unique cuisine, and vibrant local culture, Hanoi offers travelers a deeper connection to Vietnam’s past and present.
At the heart of the city lies the Old Quarter, a historic maze of narrow streets that has been a center of trade for centuries. Many streets are named after the traditional goods once sold there, and today the area remains a lively destination filled with street food stalls, old shop houses, local markets, and the authentic atmosphere that reveals the true spirit of Hanoi.
Just a short walk away, the peaceful Hoan Kiem Lake (Sword Lake) provides a relaxing escape from the city’s busy streets. Locals and visitors enjoy walking along the tree-lined paths, especially in the early mornings and evenings when the area comes alive with exercise groups, cultural activities, street performances, and family gatherings.
Hanoi is also closely connected to Vietnam’s modern history. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is one of the city’s most important landmarks, attracting visitors who come to learn about the country’s history and pay their respects.
Beyond its own attractions, Hanoi is the perfect gateway for exploring the wonders of Northern Vietnam. From here, travelers can begin unforgettable journeys to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its emerald waters, dramatic limestone islands, and spectacular caves best experienced by cruise.
For adventure seekers, Hanoi is also the starting point for trips to Sapa, where breathtaking terraced rice fields, traditional ethnic villages, and the challenge of conquering Fansipan Mountain — the “Roof of Indochina” — await.
With its timeless charm, cultural treasures, and convenient location, Hanoi is an essential destination for anyone exploring Vietnam.
Travel Essentials & Local Souvenirs
Every journey leaves us with unforgettable memories. Bringing home a meaningful souvenir is a wonderful way to preserve your memories long after your journey has ended.
The Son Mekong was created to help travelers discover products and services that can enhance every stage of their journey – from planning your trip to finding authentic Vietnamese specialties.
Thank you for visiting. And wish you a safe, rewarding, and unforgetable journey through Vietnam. Happy Travels!ough Vietnam.
Happy Travels!