Vietnam is a country with breathtaking national parks, an amazing culture, beautiful beaches and some of the best food you can find in the world. Everything you are looking for; Vietnam has it! In our opinion, these are 5 highlights that you should not miss.
1. Sapa
In the far north of Vietnam lies the centrally located mountain town of Sapa. the most popular base for trekking along the many minority villages, spectacular green valleys and phenomenally beautiful rice fields and terraces. Mu Cang Chai is more unknown and therefore more authentic. This district is located in the northwest of the country in the province of Yen Bai. It is harder to reach (more than a day traveling from Hanoi), but is worth the extra time. Hike around the breathtaking rice terraces or explore the area by motorbike. Because this area is less touristy than Sapa, this is the place to get to know the rustic life of the local minorities (hill tribes).

2. Hanoi
Chaotic and exotic, but at the same time nice and cozy. Not too big, not too small. And that food… The central point in Hanoi is Lake Hoan Kiem, where the residents (very) early in the morning do their morning gymnastics. North of it is the atmospheric "Old Quarter". Here thousands of scooters and cyclists go through narrow streets full of displayed merchandise every day. Each street has its own craft: tailors, shoe makers, grocers, goldsmiths, and so on. The nicest place in the old neighborhood is the cozy intersection with bia hoi bars. Here locals, expats and tourists drink a fresh Vietnamese beer; which is also the cheapest beer in the world ($0,20).

3. Halong Bay
The spectacular Bay of Ha Long is famous for the large rock formations that rise above the sea like small islands. There are a lot of cruises you can book. Do a cruise with at least one overnight stay on the sea. The more you pay, the nicer your junk (traditional, wooden ship) and the better the food (fresh fish for breakfast!). The view at sunset is unforgettable. Kayaking along the rock formations, often part of the tours, is also magical.

4. Hoi An

Tourist favorite in the heart of Vietnam is Hoi An. Such a wonderful hangout where you can stick longer than planned. With the nicest boutique hotels, atmospheric restaurants, a nice local market, old architecture and the pure Vietnamese countryside or beach within cycling distance (rent a bike!). You can also have all kinds of tailor made clothes or suits made for very cheap!

5. Mekong Delta
West of Ho Chi Minh City, lies the huge delta of the Mekong River. Travel independently or book a tour (of at least 2 days) and see how the residents literally live off the Mekong. People do their laundry there, take a bath, and buy fruit and vegetables in floating markets. There are various intimate islands in the delta where coconuts, bananas, mangos, longans and citrus fruits are grown.