Vietnam is host to a unique mix of natural beauty and cultural diversity. It has one of the most ancient cultures of Southeast Asia, with relics of its rich history found at tourist-friendly sites such as the Hindu temples of My Son and Ponagar Tower. Its landscape ranges from mountain passes to lush rice fields and some of the world's most beautiful beaches stretched along 1,860 miles (3,000 km) of tropical coast. This comprehensive and beautiful illustrated guidebook offers walking and driving itineraries to well-known wonders and hidden treasures within the country, as well as useful maps to navigate your way. Active travelers will find plenty of opportunities to stretch their legs with self-guided walks through the shops of the Old Quarter of Hanoi, along the legendary Mandarin Road, and through tunnels used by Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Thrill seekers can find adventures from kite-surfing in Mui Ne to spotting tigers in Chu Mom Ray Park. And for a taste of authentic Vietnam culture, visit the markets of the mountain tribes. With practical information on when to go, where to stay, what to eat, and what to do, this is the ultimate guide to the best of Vietnam.

Travel & Holiday.

Vietnam is host to a unique mix of natural beauty and cultural diversity. It has one of the most ancient cultures of Southeast Asia, with relics of its rich history found at tourist-friendly sites such as the Hindu temples of My Son and Ponagar Tower. Its landscape ranges from mountain passes to lush rice fields and some of the world's most beautiful beaches stretched along 1,860 miles (3,000 km) of tropical coast. This comprehensive and beautiful illustrated guidebook offers walking and driving itineraries to well-known wonders and hidden treasures within the country, as well as useful maps to navigate your way. Active travelers will find plenty of opportunities to stretch their legs with self-guided walks through the shops of the Old Quarter of Hanoi, along the legendary Mandarin Road, and through tunnels used by Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Thrill seekers can find adventures from kite-surfing in Mui Ne to spotting tigers in Chu Mom Ray Park. And for a taste of authentic Vietnam culture, visit the markets of the mountain tribes. With practical information on when to go, where to stay, what to eat, and what to do, this is the ultimate guide to the best of Vietnam.

Travel & Holiday.

In this completely updated and revised guide to Vietnam, James Sullivan's enthusiasm for his adopted country is clear in his coverage of all of major sites, along with some lesser known surprises as well. The book begins in the ancient capital of Hanoi, moving on to surrounding sites including fabled Ha Long Bay and hilltribe villages tucked away in the jungle-covered mountains; North-Central Vietnam, including visits to Vietnamese tunnels related to the Vietnam War; the ancient cities of Hue and Hoi An; the Southern Central Highlands, featuring wildlife-filled Cat Tien National Park; bustling Ho Chi Minh City; and the vast Mekong Delta. Several in-depth features delve deeper into Vietnam's history and culture, including discussions on the hilltribes and the life of the boatpeople in the Mekong Delta; and self-guided walks and drives take you, for example, through Hanoi's picturesque Old Quarter and along the cliffside beauty between Hue and Danang. You'll also find lists of Not-To-Be-Missed Sites; experiential sidebars that guide you to get to know Vietnam more intimately, including where to see water puppets, train trips to Trai Mat, and the new "in" beaches to visit; and a hefty Travelwise section offers hand-picked hotels and restaurants.

"Plan where, when, and how to plot your adventure with National Geographic's worldwide network of travel experts and insider tips from locals"--Cover.