Central Vietnam

 Understanding and honoring various customs and traditions is essential in showing respect for Vietnamese culture. Here are the top five rules to keep in mind: 

 Avoid loud or aggressive behavior, use both hands when giving or receiving something, and bring a small gift when visiting someone's home. 

 Avoid kissing or hugging in public, and reserve intimate gestures for private settings. 

1.  Hue Imperial City: This UNESCO World Heritage Site was once the imperial capital of the Nguyen Dynasty. You can learn about Vietnam's history and architectural heritage by exploring the Imperial City.  
2. My Son Sanctuary: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a temple complex that dates back to the Champa Kingdom. History enthusiasts will love visiting My Son Sanctuary.  
3. Hoi An Ancient Town: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a well-preserved trading port that dates back to the 15th century. You can explore Vietnam's cultural heritage by visiting Hoi An Ancient Town.
4. Marble Mountains: This cluster of five limestone mountains offers visitors stunning views of the surrounding area. There are many caves, temples, and pagodas to explore in the Marble Mountains.  
5. Ba Na Hills: This mountain resort offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. You can visit a French-style village, explore gardens, have fun at the amusement park, and walk on the Golden Bridge that has become an Instagram sensation. 

View these points on Google Maps Here

Phong Nha is home to Son Doong, the world’s largest cave, first discovered by local farmer Ho Khanh in 1991 and explored by British cavers in 2009. The cave’s main chamber spans over 5 kilometers, reaching heights of 200 meters and widths of 150 meters. Inside, a unique ecosystem thrives, with clouds and fog forming due to temperature differences, adding to its mystique. It also boasts some of the world’s tallest stalagmites, up to 70 meters, and has revealed ancient sea creatures, hinting at its underwater past.

To preserve its pristine condition, Vietnam limits access to a few hundred visitors per year, with each paying $3,000. The process includes an application, health checks, and a rigorous trek through jungle and river crossings. Visitors must be physically fit to navigate the cave’s challenging environment.

Cost:  $3,000 + VAT

Additional Information: Click Here

While Phong Nha is known for its caves, the Phong Nha Botanic Garden is still a must-see for those with additional time to visit Phong Nha. This 40-hectare garden features lush trails, waterfalls, and diverse local flora and fauna. The best time to visit is during the dry season (February to August), when the weather is ideal.

To reach the garden, travel to Phong Nha from Dong Hoi by bus, taxi, or motorbike. The garden is just 10 kilometers from Phong Nha, easily accessible by motorbike or taxi. By motorbike, the Botanic Garden is easy to add to a day trip to Phong Nha.

In the garden, you can explore hiking paths, visit Gio Waterfall, and enjoy scenic views. It's a perfect addition to any day trip, offering adventure and relaxation in Vietnam's UNESCO-listed park.

Hours: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Entrance Fee: VND 40,000 (USD $1.62 on 9/17/2024)

One of my most unforgettable experiences in Southeast Asia was visiting the eerie Thuy Tien Lake Abandoned Water Park in Hue, Vietnam. Although it's officially closed to the public, I managed to enter after negotiating with a few individuals posing as security guards near the entrance.

Opened in 2004 and abandoned shortly afterward, the park offers a haunting, post-apocalyptic atmosphere perfect for adventurous travelers and urban explorers. Overgrown slides, crumbling statues, and a giant dragon-shaped aquarium create an otherworldly setting that’s ideal for unique, Instagram-worthy photos. Originally built by the Hue Tourism Company at a cost of around 3 million USD, this mysterious site has become one of Vietnam’s most intriguing hidden gems.

Cost: negotiated by "guards."

Hours: no official hours.

Note: I would recommend going during the day. Be safe because there is broken glass and other safety concerns that you need to keep in mind. Remember, this park is abandoned; therefore, it is not maintained. Enjoy!

Thien Mu Pagoda stands as one of Hue’s most iconic and historically significant landmarks. Founded in 1601 by Nguyen Hoang, governor of the Thuan Hoa province, the pagoda has been carefully restored over the centuries, retaining its serene beauty and cultural importance.

Its most recognizable feature is the seven-story, hexagonal Phuoc Duyen Tower, perched on a hillside overlooking the Perfume River. With its aged stone exterior and peaceful surroundings, the tower offers a picturesque setting that attracts photographers, travelers, and worshippers alike. As a symbol of Hue’s spiritual heritage, Thien Mu Pagoda is a must-visit for anyone discovering the charm of central Vietnam.

Location: Thien Mu Pagoda sits on Ha Khe Hill, 5 km west of Hue, along the northern bank of the Perfume River.

Hours: Daily 24 hours

Entrance Fee: Free

 No visit to Hue is complete without a scenic boat ride along the Perfume River, one of the city’s most iconic natural features. Named for the fragrant blossoms that fall into the water from nearby orchards, the river is best experienced aboard a traditional dragon boat—beautifully painted and intricately crafted for an authentic Vietnamese experience.

As you glide gently down the river, you'll enjoy panoramic views of Hue’s historic landmarks, including ancient pagodas, royal tombs, and peaceful riverside villages. The calm waters and rich cultural scenery make this a favorite activity for both history enthusiasts and those simply seeking a tranquil escape.

Whether you're exploring Hue's imperial past or just soaking in the scenery, a dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River offers a memorable and relaxing way to connect with the heart of central Vietnam.

Price and Booking: The cost of a dragon boat ride on the Perfume River can vary depending on the length of the ride and the specific tour company. It's best to do some research and compare prices before booking to ensure you get a fair price. 

 There are several tour companies that offer dragon boat rides on the Perfume River. You can book directly through their websites or through a travel agency. Some popular tour companies include Hue Adventures, Hue Smile Travel, and Hue City Tour. It's best to read reviews and compare prices before booking to ensure you have a great experience at a fair price. 

Half Day Hue Tour by Car and Dragon Boat on Perfume River

 Phở Đi Bộ Walking Street in Hạ Long is a vibrant pedestrian area famous for its delicious street food, lively bars, and local entertainment. Stroll along the bustling street and enjoy authentic Vietnamese dishes like phở bò, fresh seafood, and grilled snacks. 

The colorful lights, live performances, and festive atmosphere create an unforgettable experience that truly captures the spirit of Hạ Long. It’s a must-visit spot for both travelers and locals looking to immerse themselves in the city’s culture. 

One word of caution: If you find yourself walking home from a bar late at night, make sure not to buy drugs from the locals who will offer them to you. They work with the police, and these locals will extort you for a decent chunk of change. Just use good judgment, politely decline, and walk away. This is a good word of caution for other locations around Southeast Asia. 

Reference:

$ Usually under USD 5.00

$$ Usually USD 5.00-10.00

$$$ Usually over USD 10.00

$ Nam Phuong Riverside Villa - This clean and comfortable hostel includes a restaurant and lounge.

Extra Perks: storage, bar, free parking

Located Near:  less than a mile from Trang Tien Bridge 

$$ Chi Homestay #4  This homestay has a near-perfect score on booking.com due to its clean and relaxed environment.

Extra Perks: storage, slippers, A/C, Wifi

Located Near: a short walk from the Imperial Citadel

$$$ Minh Tam Guesthouse - This guesthouse offers a comfortable stay in a private room for an affordable price. 

Extra Perks: in-room TV, breakfast available for an extra $1

Located Near:  1.4 miles from Trang Tien Bridge, 1.6 miles from Museum of Royal Antiquities and 1.6 miles from Dong Ba Market 

At the same location as the impressive Lady Buddha in Da Nang, you will find the Linh Ung Pagoda. The building is unique and beautiful, but the courtyard is even more remarkable. Bonsai trees and statues line the outer square. Four guardian statues and 18 Arhat statues depict human emotions, from happy to angry. Incense burns closer to the temple, which adds to the mystical feel of this site. 

The inside of the temple is also stunning. A golden Buddha sits cross-legged at the center of the back wall. Intricate facades and designs throughout the temple add to its overall beauty. It is very different from the many temples you will see in Thailand and reflects distinctly Vietnamese designs. This area is a must-see when you visit Da Nang. 

The Ling Ung Pagoda is 9 km from the city center, so you must take a scooter, grab app taxi, or a regular cab to get there. I rode my scooter there, and there was plenty of parking. It is a lovely refreshing ride along My Khe Beach along the way, so I recommend renting your scooter if you feel comfortable. The scooter ride makes for an even more enjoyable experience. 

Hours: All Day

Entrance Fee: Free for the pagoda

Check out the Lady Buddha Da Nang Website here

The Marble Mountains are a group of five majestic hills made of marble and limestone located in Da Nang, Vietnam. Upon ascending the mountains, one can appreciate the abundance of marble and limestone sculptures, Buddhist temples, and a plethora of caves to explore. These mountains hold significant cultural and religious importance for Buddhists and have become a popular tourist destination over time. Each of the five mountains is named Kim, Thuy, Moc, Hoa, and Tho after the five elements.  

Upon my arrival at the mountain entrance, a shopkeeper specializing in marble statues greeted me. Although the surrounding businesses provide parking facilities, be prepared for high-pressure sales tactics once you complete your visit. This shopkeeper guided me to my parking spot from the highway, indicating how much pressure is in store for those thinking they are being offered to park by a benevolent local. Nonetheless, the experience is well worth it. I hiked to the top of Mount Thuy and was impressed by the hike itself. The view of the city from the top was breathtaking. 

Entrance Fee: 40,000 (USD 1.69 as of 3/2024)

Location:  The Marble Mountains are located in Da Nang, Vietnam. The address is Hoa Hai Ward, Ngu Hanh Son District, Da Nang. 

Getting There:  To reach the Marble Mountains, take a taxi or hire a private car from Da Nang. It's a 20-30 minute drive. You can also take a motorbike or bicycle. Wear comfortable shoes and carry water while exploring the hills. 

Private Tour to Marble Mountains and Monkey

Arguably the other most prevalent symbol of the city of Da Nang is the Dragon Bridge. Completed on March 29, 2013, this bridge serves as an important crossing of the Han River to connect the airport to the other main roads in the city. It is one of my favorite bridges in the world. As a bonus, the bridge lights up at night. If you visit it on Saturday or Sunday at 9 PM, the dragon breathes fire

The highest peak of the Marble Mountains is Thuong Thai, and at the peak lies the mystical Huyen Khong Cave. The cave's ceiling allows sunlight to peek through, and the temperature inside is pleasantly cool, providing a welcome relief from the hot weather. Huyen Khong Cave is home to several notable features, including a stunning sculpture of Sakyamuni Buddha and the Trang Nghiem Tu' temple, built-in 1825, positioned high on a rock for all to see.  

The Trang Nghiem Tu' temple looks gorgeous and unique within the cave's high ceiling and natural light, emanating a peaceful and spiritual aura. The cave also displays sculptures of two men playing a game of chess, which I, as a chess lover, found fascinating. Visiting Huyen Khong Cave is undoubtedly a highlight of any trip to the Marble Mountains. The easiest way to get there is by scooter, but you can also take a cheap and efficient taxi using the grab app. 

Entrance Fee: 40,000 (USD 1.69 as of 3/2024)

Location:  The Marble Mountains are located in Da Nang, Vietnam. The address is Hoa Hai Ward, Ngu Hanh Son District, Da Nang. 

Getting There:  To reach the Marble Mountains, take a taxi or hire a private car from Da Nang. It's a 20-30 minute drive. You can also take a motorbike or bicycle. Wear comfortable shoes and carry water while exploring the hills. 

Private Tour to Marble Mountains and Monkey

Reference:

$ Usually under USD 5.00

$$ Usually USD 5.00-10.00

$$$ Usually over USD 10.00

From my experience, booking.com is the best booking method for Southeast Asia, and it is all I currently use.

Click links for current availability and rates, which are subject to fluctuation. These are some of the top-rated hotels/hostels in their price ranges:

$ Hana Homestay Da Nang 

$ Siro House Da Nang Homestay

$$  Nhật Quang

$$ Raon Apartment and Hotel 

$$$ Sena home 4th-Rooftop Overlooking Danang Dragon Bridge 

$$$ Green House Hotel

The Japanese Bridge, also known as Chùa Cầu, is a breathtaking bridge located in the beautiful city of Hoi An, in the Quang Nam province of Vietnam. Built by the Japanese in the 17th century, it has been serving as a temple for the local residents ever since. The bridge acts as a connecting point between two ancient streets in Hoi An and is renowned for its unique architecture and traditional Japanese style.

Spanning approximately 18 meters in length, Chùa Cầu is constructed of wood and stands on brick and stone piers, topped with a striking red tiled roof. It has become one of the most popular landmarks in Hoi An, attracting tourists from all over the world who are captivated by its historical significance and stunning beauty. A visit to the Japanese Bridge is a must to truly appreciate the charm and splendor of Hoi An.

Hours: Daily 24 hours

Entrance Fee: 

Walking on the bridge is free, but there is a 120,000 VND (USD $4.92 as of January 2024) fee to visit the adjacent temple. 

Please Note: The bridge is currently under extensive renovations, and it is covered/closed for tourist at this time (As of January 2024). Please check back or contact me here for further information as you plan your trip. 

 The Fujian Assembly Hall, also known as the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall or Hoi Quan Phuoc Kien is a fascinating historical and cultural landmark located in Hoi An, Vietnam. The hall was constructed back in 1690 by the Fujian Chinese community, and it served as a gathering place for their community to worship, meet, and hold meetings.  

The traditional Chinese architectural style of the assembly hall is truly breathtaking and features intricate carvings and stunning artwork. The main hall is dedicated to Thien Hau, the goddess of the sea and protector of sailors, while other smaller halls are dedicated to other deities and ancestors.  

Visitors can explore the assembly hall and marvel at the impressive carvings on the walls and ceilings, the colorful murals portraying mythological scenes, and the ornate altars dedicated to various gods and goddesses. The peaceful courtyard provides a serene atmosphere with its small garden and fishpond.  

Apart from being a religious and cultural site, the Fujian Assembly Hall serves as a venue for social gatherings and community events. The hall has played a crucial role in preserving and promoting the customs and traditions of the Fujian Chinese community in Hoi An.  

Hours: Daily 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Location: Phuc Kien is located in Hoi An old town along Tran Phu Street.

 If you're someone who's interested in history and culture, then the My Son Sanctuary in Hoi An, Vietnam, is one place you should definitely visit. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient Hindu temple complex is a testament to the Champa Kingdom's religious and political capital and is considered one of Southeast Asia's most important archaeological sites.  

Constructed between the 4th and 14th centuries, the My Son Sanctuary is a perfect example of the Champa's unique architectural style. The temples here are dedicated to the Hindu deities Shiva, Krishna, and Vishnu and feature impressive brick towers with intricate carvings and sculptures. For history enthusiasts, a visit to this site is a must.  

If you're planning a trip to the My Son Sanctuary, there are several ways to reach the site. You can take a bus, rent a motorbike, or opt for a guided tour. The sanctuary is located around 40 kilometers west of Hoi An, so it's easy to reach no matter where you're staying.  

Visiting the My Son Sanctuary is a great way to explore Vietnam's rich history and immerse yourself in ancient Hindu culture. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about the region's past, you're sure to be amazed by this incredible site. 

Hours: 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Entrance Fee:  VND 150,000 (USD $6.12 as of January 2024)

Getting There: The best options for traveling the roughly one hour journey from Hoi An to My Son are by public bus, guided tour, or a motorbike rental.

Additional Information: click here

An Bang Beach is a picturesque and tranquil beach located just a few kilometers from the ancient town of Hoi An in central Vietnam. This stretch of white sandy beach is known for its pristine waters, gentle waves, and peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for both locals and tourists seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating escape.  

Visitors can bask in the sun on the soft sand, go for a refreshing swim, or simply admire the breathtaking views of the surrounding coconut palm trees and lush greenery. An Bang Beach boasts a friendly and laid-back atmosphere, and there are plenty of beachfront restaurants and bars that serve delicious seafood dishes, refreshing drinks, and live music, making it the perfect spot to unwind and indulge in the local cuisine while enjoying the ocean breeze.  

For those looking for more adventure, there are usually several water sports and activities available, such as paddleboarding, kayaking, or surfing. Alternatively, guests can take a leisurely bicycle ride along the coast or explore the nearby fishing villages to get a glimpse of the local livelihood. Overall, An Bang Beach is a must-visit destination that promises to leave you feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and inspired by the beauty of nature. 

Getting There: An Bang Beach is located approximately 4 km from Hoi An's old town.  To reach An Bang Beach in Hoi An, Vietnam, you can rent a bike or motorbike from Hoi An's old town, take a taxi or ride-hailing services like Grab or Gojek, or check if your hotel offers shuttle bus services to the beach.

Visiting Ponagar Temple in Nha Trang, Vietnam, is a must for history and culture enthusiasts. This ancient Cham temple, dedicated to the goddess Yan Po Nagar, dates back to the 7th century and showcases stunning Cham architecture and intricate carvings. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Cai River from the main tower and explore the serene gardens and sculptures that highlight the area's spiritual heritage. Remember to dress modestly out of respect for this sacred site. Capture the beauty of Ponagar Temple and immerse yourself in Vietnam's rich cultural history.

Hours:  8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Entrance Fee: 30,000 VND (USD $1.18 as of 10/2024)