5 Must-taste Dishes Only Have in Vietnam

As being a small but colorful country in SouthEast Asia, beside the fascinating history, culture and architecture, Vietnam has a lot to offer travelers. One thing you should not miss out when it comes to Vietnam travel is, certainly, the unique cuisine.

Featured a tropical climate, Vietnam has abundant choices of cooking ingredients: from fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, beans to exceptional pork, chicken and other kind of meats; and food ranges widely from typical street food in small vendors to gourmet dishes in luxury restaurants. Especially, street food has become part of Vietnam’s culinary culture, which, in some way, is the most appealing reasons for tourists to give this beautiful country a visit. Look no further, here are 5 Vietnamese must-taste dishes you should try any time you can!

1. Pho - The Authentic Vietnamese Noodle Soup

The authentic beef noodle soup

Pho is a traditional as well as exceptional dish originated in the North of Vietnam. It is truly an art of flavors: to serve you with a hot and tasty bowl of Pho, they need over 10 different spices for the soup. All about flavor, and full of flavor. Some prefers Pho Bo (beef noodle soup), and some just gets addicted to Pho Ga (chicken noodle soup).

Pho can be served well in both street vendors and some haute restaurants. A good address of your choice might be Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su, nestled on the corner of Ly Quoc Su St. in the Old Quarter. Price ranges around VND 40,000 to VND 60,000 per bowl.

2. Bun Nem - The Wonderful Fried Springroll

Bun Nem in traditional restaurant

When being asked about the most favorite dishes in Vietnam, approximately 60% of foreign visitors admit that it is Nem. As also being one of the most well-known dishes and exclusive in the country, every Vietnamese family has Nem on Tet holiday, and it has become a lifelong custom. The distinctive flavor of chopped meats such as pork, chicken, mushrooms and shredded carrots along with dipping sauce and bun (rice noodle) make an incredible taste.

Best places to get a real Nem for yourselves can be any restaurant in town! But to savor the most, take a look at Quan Ngon, 34 Phan Dinh Phung St. Just less than VND 100,000 for a delicious meal.

3. Bun Cha - King of the Grilled Pork

Grilled pork with bamboo stick

If you once tried Bun Cha - grilled pork with rice noodle and special fish sauce, there could be a glow on your face any later time you talk about it! Much like Bun Nem, Bun Cha is also considered a signature dish of Hanoi. The scrumptious grilled meatballs with special spices mixed will not let you down. They will only grill it when you order, so it is always hot and fresh.

Experience this great dish at Bun Cha Hang Manh on Hang Manh St., they have been the master of Bun Cha for decades. A set of Bun Cha costs you around VND 50,000.

Check out more: 10 things you should do when traveling to Vietnam!

4. Banh Xeo - The Intriguing Vietnamese Pancake

The appealing yellow of Banh Xeo

The idea of sitting down at a corner of the street, watching the bustling pace of life, and enjoying a piece of Banh Xeo is truly perfect. Not like any pancake you’ve ever try: not sweet like French crepe, not crunchy like Mexican-style taco or burritos, not thick and plain like the Indian Nan; Banh Xeo is at the same time smooth and crispy, and compiles all things you need for a nutritious brunch: shrimp, pork, onion, normally served with a worth of herbs and deep sauce. With only one bite, you‘ll quite be deep in that unique taste. 

The favorite local address for Banh Xeo is 16 Hang Bong St. It only opens til 15:00, so run for the flavor! 

5. Xoi - The Ultimate Sticky Rice 

Xoi xeo ga - Green bean sticky rice with chicken

Every Vietnamese family has Xoi in their house’s altar when it comes to a special day like worshiping the ancestors, or Tet holiday. In other words, Xoi is the traditional and authentic dish of Vietnam. It is also served in various types: the white sticky rice (Xoi Trang) with roasted pork/ chicken/ sausage/ fried egg (omelet); the green bean sticky rice (Xoi Xeo) with deep fried slices of onion; the black bean sticky rice with sesame salt, the coconut sticky rice, etc. 

A famous place to try a bowl of Xoi might be Xoi Yen, 35B Nguyen Huu Huan St.

10 Things You Must Do Once in Vietnam

Vietnam is quite possibly a spectacular travel destination if you know it right. At some points, travelers love the fact that Vietnam never leaves them with a lack of activities to do next. Here are the top 10 things you’d better do during your stay in Vietnam. Check it out! 

1. Take a cyclo trip around the chaotic Hanoi 

A short cyclo trip around the city

Have you ever taken a cyclo around the intriguing Hanoi? It will be a perfect way to see the pace of life in this bustling city. During your trip, you can have a glimpse of the crowded streets, the narrow alleys, the busy atmosphere of a pre-metropolitan, and its people. It might just cost you 2-3 USD/ 1 hour. 

2. Eat the scrumptious Pho 

The authentic beef noodle soup - Pho bo

Vietnam is widely known for its abundant and colorful cuisines which caught the eyes of a vast number of travelers. One we can name here is Pho - a must-taste dish you should not miss in your life if you have one foot on Vietnam. Pho is quite prevalent in Hanoi and always charismatic for anyone who has given it a try. Its taste won’t do you any wrong. Its taste might make you stay. 

3. Cruise in the wonderful Halong Bay 

Cruise around the exotic Halong Bay

You might hear about Halong Bay - a World Natural Heritage site which is famous for its incredible landscape with tremendous caves and islets. Relaxing on a cruise wandering around the most exotic corner of the bay and the surrounding area, you can catch all the gorgeous views, all while enjoying your time with friends and family. 

4. Trek at the amazing Sapa 

Stunning Sapa in yellow

Sapa is an all-time fantastic place for trekking. The yellow terraced fields, the colorful hill tribes cultivating on the mountain, the lush paths… you will see all those things on the way passing through the ethnic people’s village and experiencing every amazing route. You can also enjoy homestay to live like a local for few days. That could be one of a kind! 

5. Homestay in ethnic family 

Homestay in Mai Chau

This is an exhilarating activity you can take part in when you visit places in the north region of Vietnam like Sapa, Ha Giang, Cao Bang etc. Staying, eating, talking all in their house like a truly member of their family. It absolutely brings you an unforgettable experience and get to know more about unique ethnic minority culture. 

6. Jeep crawling in Mui Ne Sand dunes 

Jeep heads to Mui Ne sand hills (sources: 24 hours in Mui Ne)

Taking in the gorgeous views of White sand hill and Red sand hill stretching along to the horizon is best done by jeep. You can choose to head out on a guided tour, or rent your own Jeep to start the adventure your own. Along the way, you will immerse in cool breeze, fresh air and the salty flavor of the sea. 

7. Swim in the gorgeous Son Tra beach 

Son Tra viewed from Hai Van Pass

If you want to spend your summer vacation in a romantic place with blue water, white sand, then walk on Son Tra beach, Da Nang. Once you’re here, you might be blown away because of its phenomeno view and more than that, people here are amazing. Whenever you go, you will see Da Nang people with a big smile and treat you as if you are their family. The cost there is extremely cheap. There is no room for any trick or cheat. 

8. Join Floating markets in Mekong River Delta 

Floating markets in Can Tho

Ummm hello, fun! What’s better than sitting on a river boat to a fascinating floating market ? Known as Western region of Vietnam, Mekong River Delta is where most of Vietnam’s rice grown with unique floating market you might have never seen elsewhere, fruit orchards, fishes, national parks and pagodas. Joining floating market, you have a chance to discover the river-culture and meeting up with friendly local people in a green, lush place on earth. 

9. Having meal in Vietnamese family 

Meal at a friend's home (sources: 24 hours in Mui Ne)

Having meal with a local Vietnamese family is definitely an interesting experience - not just because of the amazing food. You will feel a little bit weird to use chopsticks to pick up the food, but when you try, you will certainly like it. Virtually, Vietnamese host is hospitable, so they may invite you some cups of beer. Wait for that! 

10. Speak Vietnamese 

A clip for Danish people to learn basic Vietnamese (sources: Vietnam Rejser)

Language is seemingly always vibrant and new once you visit a country. Vietnamese is much like that, even it’s on top of one of the most difficult languages to learn. Naturally, it will take you quite a long time to get used to, then you might feel a deep sense of excitement to say a full sentence: Toi yeu Viet Nam.

5 Best Healthcare Centers in Vietnam for Travelers

One thing might bother every single person when it comes to travel somewhere out of their motherland, is where to find healthcare help when they need support. In developed countries, it’s not hard to have health support on the way, but in developing countries, it’s not that easy. One of the difficulties is language barrier: not everyone can speak English. 

As the world’s travel trend got Vietnam on top, and the country is becoming a promising destination for tourists, we will have a look at these 5 popular medical centers with English-speaking staffs where can give you health support during your trip to Vietnam. 

1. Family Medical Practice 

Having branches in 3 big cities in Vietnam, including Ho Chi Minh city, Hanoi and Da Nang, Family Medical Practice Is a foreign-operated hospital. With a vast number of professional & experienced medical experts, Family Medical Practice provides 24/24 health care services in international standard. In return, the price is quite higher than normal hospital. 

Addresses: 

Hanoi: 298 Van Phuc, Kim Ma St., Ba Dinh Dist., 

Ho Chi Minh city: 34 Le Duan St., District 1 

Da Nang: 50-52 Nguyen Van Linh St., Hai Chau Dist., 

2. VINMEC 

VINMEC is the first international hospital which modeled on the international-standard Hospital Facilities. They have a lot of medical professionals and good services, you don't have to wait on a long queue. The price is high in comparison to other Vietnam domestic hospital. 

Address: 458 Minh Khai St., Hai Ba Trung Dist., 

3. Viet Phap Hospital (Vietnam - France Hospital) 

Known internationally under the name Hôpital Français de Hanoï, formerly the Vietnam International Hospital, Viet Phap is a privatized hospital in Hanoi, Vietnam, sold to a French company in September 2000. Its staffs include French and Vietnamese doctors. 

Address: 1 Phuong Mai St., Dong Da Dist., 

4. Phap Viet Hospital (FV) 

One of the outstanding traits of FV is wherever you’re from, you can choose the physician you want, either speaking English or French. Most of staffs here can speak these two foreign languages fluently. Besides, the hospital also provides translating service in case patients are in need. 

Address: 6 Nguyen Luong Bang St., District 7, Ho Chi Minh city

5. Hanh Phuc Hospital 

Known as a 5-star hospital - Hanh Phuc is always on top list of the best hospitals in Vietnam in general and Binh Duong province in particular. It offers a comprehensive range of quality healthcare for women and children. English-speaking staffs are available. 

Addresses: 

Ho Chi Minh city: 97 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai St., District 1, 

Binh Duong Province: Binh Duong Avenue, Thuan An Commune,

Read more about our top 5 ideal destinations for trekking in Vietnam. 

2 Grandeur Caves in Vietnam Alternative to Son Doong Cave

“We live in a wonderful world that is full of beauty, charm and adventure. There is no end to the adventures we can have if only we seek them with our eyes open”.

Recently, you might have heard about Son Doong Cave - aka the world’s biggest cave featured in the Guiness World Records 2013 - and seen that name to become viral on worldwide broadcasts and media. You might have a glimpse of it through the live footage of Good Morning America program by ABC News - and certainly you should watch it to be sure that you do not miss a magnificent natural wonder - and from the moment the clip being spreaded to the world, Son Doong has just left it first footprint on the modern world, and seriously amazed people from all walks of life by its unbelievable beauty. 

"A hidden world".

"Come from other planet".

"Heaven on Earth".

This could be a real challenge for anyone who wishes to visit this stunning spot, as tourists cannot easily flock to the place. Tour to Son Doong Cave is fully booked til 2016, and the total cost of around $3000 is not really a reasonable number for most adventure seekers. 

But there must have been a way. Some alternative choices for those who really want to discover that corner.

Hang En (En Cave)

Instead of waiting hopelessly in the queue, many people opt for a medium cave exploration in En Cave, which just costs nearly 10 times less than a trip to Son Doong.

Also being an exotic cave complex nestled in Phong Nha Ke Bang national park, Quang Binh province of Central Vietnam, En Cave is the third largest cave in the world, aged nearly 3 million years, over 2km long, 130m high, and 150m wide. En Cave has its own ecosystem and climate, and also contains a beach, a jungle and rivers. That is somehow a smaller copy of Son Doong cave - a worthy reward for everyone who loves adventure. 

After crossing 10km hard trek through the remote forest, you will see an awe-inspiring view. But it is real. The mysterious beauty of stalactite pillars and the grandiose rock arches formed over time… you cannot see it elsewhere. Get inside, and surely you can feel the world changing; you can feel the past behind you and the future coming across; you can feel the time flow through the emerald sea in front of you. That all worths it.

Thien Duong Cave (Paradise Cave)

For some people cannot enter a hide-and-seek with the nature, cannot join a real adventure with so many difficulties ahead, they widely choose Thien Duong Cave (Paradise Cave). Also located in Phong Nha - Ke Bang cave complex, with the length of 31.4 km, the width of 30 - 100m, the widest point measured at 150m and the height of around 60m, Thien Duong is considered the longest dry cave in Asia having been discovered since 2005. Named for its obviously brilliant appearance, a vast number of visitors coming here are seriously blown away with its series of white crystal stalactites resembling glass pillars and many other spectacular formations. It really does live up to its name. 

Following a narrow path throughout the forest with the length of around 16km, you can see the weather changing. The more you get inside, the cooler air you will feel. This grandeur spectacle costs  you $6 for entrance fee. Though it doesn’t provide you with an exotic exploration, it still worths a visit. Breathtaking, and unforgettable. 

5 Reasons Hoi An Should Be on Your Bucket List

Hoi An is a perfect destination for you to relax in Vietnam and different from other cities as Saigon or Hanoi. It is a very peaceful and relaxing city makes you feel warmer when you come here. And surely, people have some reasons to get addicted to this beautiful place.

The peaceful browny-yellowy houses on the riverside

5 Ideal Places for Trekking in Vietnam

Over the last few years, travel has become an essential part as well as a meaningful standard to assess a full life. People tend to travel further and more frequent each year; and nearly two thirds of them want to explore more rather than just stay and relax. One of the most popular and easy-to-join adventure travel is trekking, which is preferred in mountainous countries. 

Given the favorable terrains conditions including plunging highland valleys, giant terraced paddy fields and soaring limestone mountains, Vietnam offers excellent trekking activities, ranging variously from soft-hiking to hardcore trek conquering the highest mountain in the country… So, if you are looking for an exotic spot for your trekking trip in Vietnam, then check out this list of 5 ideal destinations you could consider picking up and ultimately start your journey. 

1. Ham Lon, Soc Son, Hanoi 

Way to the top

Situated just about 40 km away from Hanoi's center, Ham Lon mountain will be a perfect choice if you arrive in the capital and want to combine your city tour with one more day trekking. You can take a short car trip here and start conquering! With around 4 hours trekking, you will be on the top at 462 metres height above the sea level. Ham Lon also fits those who don’t have much time to travel but still want to enjoy the gorgeous beauty of nature. Near, amazing, and adventurous! 

2. Tam Dao, Vinh Phuc  

Also a nearby place to Hanoi, Tam Dao mountain - 900 metres height above the sea level - can be an ideal choice for one-day trekking. The only way to get to the top is basically passing the thick forests. Normally, Tam Dao mountain has 3 peaks, so you can conquer 1, 2 or even all of them. Beside mountain, there are also various beautiful places you can have a short visit to Rock Cathedral, Silver Waterfall, etc. With cool climate and sublime mountain, Tam Dao is extraordinary impressive to everybody which has once been here. 

3. Sa Pa, Lao Cai

Mountain top's view

Located in Northwest of Vietnam, about 360 km from the capital Hanoi, Sa Pa is a well-known destination not only for its sublime landscape and the extraordinary people but also for its being an ideal trekking destination. From Sapa center, you can have short trek to some hill tribe villages nearby such as Cat Cat, Sin Chai, etc. If you intend to go with a longer route, you can opt for Muong Hoa valley, Ta Phin village… One of the most incredible place you should not miss is Fansipan – the highest peak of Indochina at 3143 metres. Take a two or three-day trip trekking to the top of the mountain and you will be definitely blown away of what you are watching. 

4. Cao Bang 

Ban Gioc Waterfall

According to SkyScanner, Cao Bang ranked the 5th out of five incredible trekking destinations in South East Asia. Its extremely rugged topography, evergreen forests, huge cave system and especially the bluish Ban Gioc waterfall have colored the splendid beauty of this Northeast province. It attracts a huge number of visitors coming for trekking as well as enjoy daily life with the amazing Tay, Nung ethnic people. 

5. Ha Giang 

The endless terraced field

The North Vietnam is famously excellent with a lot of amazing trekking destinations. Ha Giang, also known as ‘The land of rocks’, is among the spotlight. Everywhere you go, you will see peaky rocks lying in the ground. It’s seriously essential for trekkers to put on a high-quality sport shoes, pack your luggage tight, and just go. Dong Van Plateau and Lung Cu Flag tower are great places to trek out.

The Green Way to Travel in Viet Nam

As the modern life causes us so much busyness and stress, people often tend to get more concerned about some new and relaxing travel trends such as: eco tourism, green tourism, adventure tourism, etc. It's not an exception for foreign visitors traveling in Vietnam: they all mostly want to discover places that remain natural, with no noise and emission, just to enjoy the peaceful and quiet scenery, and free their mind of life for a while.

Perfect place for camping

Under that circumstance, a short trip to Suoi Da Lach will be an awesome idea and a perfect choice with those who long for a day off.