Without a doubt – when you visit Vietnam you are guaranteed to see some of the most spectacular tourist destinations in the world! Actually – it will be very difficult not to! From the moment you check into your 5-star hotel or drop your pack at the hostel, you and all other visitors will be steered to the same select destinations.
And they are fabulous – Ha Long Bay! Sa Pa! Mekong Delta! the islands and beaches of Nha Trang!
Waiting in line at Ha Long Bay
But the universally pre-arranged and centrally-controlled Vietnam tourist system will ensure that everyone is shepherded to these same pre-packaged, westernized, photo-oriented “Vietnamese” experiences. If you passively go along, you’ll see breathtaking views and take home some colorful souvenirs, but maybe miss Vietnam in the process.
But, with a little extra effort, you can see, enjoy and learn a lot more about the real Vietnam!
When you get off that tourist bus for lunch on your way to Sa Pa or Cambodia, avoid the restaurant you are directed to – instead walk down the dusty street or a near-by alley and try the boiling pork porridge or the fish being grilled by that wrinkled old lady sitting on her plastic stool. It’s delicious! (Just watch the time and don’t miss the bus after lunch)!
Is this Disneyland? No - it's the Mekong River?
Ask that college student who wants to speak English with you in the park if you can hire him to take you for lunch to his family farm, an hour’s motorbike ride outside of Hanoi; or to his favorite duck and noodle stand tucked in a small alley!
Avoid the tourist districts in Saigon and Hanoi – get a ride to a lake, a park, or a university on the outskirts of town – you will be welcomed with smiles and great food at the vast number of small eateries, markets and cafes wherever you find yourself.
Avoid the tourist traps - Talk to Locals
And you’ll never be more than a $5 taxi or xe om (motorbike) ride back to your hotel at tourist central!