A Travel Idea for the Malaysian to Explore Vietnam from North to South
Vietnam is an S-shaped strip of land, stretching from 23°23′ to 8°27′ North latitude. As a result, there are distinct differences in culture and climate between the North and South. Therefore, if you have a lot of time for traveling Vietnam, a traversing trip from North to South Vietnam with notable highlights will be a perfect choice to discover our nation from its cradle.
1. Hanoi (Hà Nội)
Hanoi, the capital city, has been the cultural, social and political center of Vietnam for over 1000 years. In this old city, you can watch interesting combinations between tradition and modernity, the past and the future. It will unfold before your eyes with hundreds of heritage sites, unique traditional festivals,and interesting cultural shows, etc.
The tourist top choice is Hanoi Old Quarter that is the perfect blend of both modern French architecture and traditional Asian culture. An ideal tour starts by wandering around Hoan Kiem Lake in the early morning to watch a slower but chill pace of local people, filling up your energy by a hot bowl of Pho and then taking out the map and going to desired places.
You should experience a cyclo or double – decker bus to explore Hanoi. These vehicles will take you through many well-known streets and cultural and historical relic sites, such as Hoan Kiem Lake, West lake, Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Opera House, the Hanoi Flag Tower, etc.
Hanoi is also named as “Paradise of cuisine” and serves every need from street food lover to fan of Michelin star restaurants. There are a lot of dishes you should try, such as Banh My (a Vietnamese tasty version of French Baguette), Pho (a national symbol consisting of broth, rice noodle, herb, beef or chicken), Cha Ca (grilled fish with dill and turmeric) and Egg coffee (authentic Hanoi coffee).
Note: If you are a Malaysian Muslim, you should keep in mind that most Vietnamese dishes are made from pork. If you do not want to break Islamic rules, we suggest that you ask the waiter or waitress in the restaurant before ordering food.
Let’s travel to Hanoi to discover the 1000-year-old city of Vietnam. It takes 3 hours and 20 minutes to travel to Hanoi from Kuala Lumpur. Therefore, you can find non-stop Kuala Lumpur – Hanoi flights to save time and money.
Tháp Rùa (Turtle Tower) standing on a small island near the center of Ho Guom lake is the symbol of Hanoi. Source: Internet
After deeply immersing in traditional North Vietnam, it’s time to go to the South. You can travel by plane, train, or intercity bus. We recommend you take a train to cross Vietnam. You can slowly enjoy breathtaking views and the nature changing of this S-shaped nation and have an authentic, unique experience in chit-chatting with the locals.
2. Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An (Huế – Đà Nẵng – Hội An)
This combo is a must-choice option for travelers to discover Vietnam Central.
Hue is the former capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, the last Vietnamese Royal family. As a result, Hua is famous for the ancient beauty of Imperial City (The world-recognized complex of monuments), king’s tombs, pagodas, and temples. In the city, you can enjoy poetic scenery, a chilling pace of life, the delicacy and sophistication of royal court cuisine, and a time-honored traditional craft village.
From Hue, travelers can easily access Danang – a young and liveable city. On the way, you can experience one of the world’s top 10 most beautiful coastal roads – Hai Van Pass. This pass includes perilous curves, zigzag roads, and spectacular and artistic beauty.
Lying on the coast of the East Sea, Danang is the economic and cultural center of the Central region. It lusts tourists with scenic white sandy beaches, magnificent sunrise and sunset, many different shapes and color bridges (Dragon Bridge, Golden Bridge, etc.), and a wide range of festivals and international events.
Another place in the journey to explore the central region of Vietnam is Hoi An Ancient Town. The little town was an essential trading port for centuries and became a UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site. Next to the bold imprint of Vietnamese culture, one can see in Hoi An the colors of China, Japan, and Western countries in houses, assembly halls, pagodas, shrines, churches, and ancient wells.
Hoi An Ancient town is an example of a South-East Asian trading port dating in the past. Source: Internet
3. Ho Chi Minh City (Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh)
Ho Chi Minh City (beloved named Saigon) is the largest city in Vietnam. It is the most exciting, moving, and bustling but retains many ancient marks.
Besides the most modern highrise buildings, you can see many diverse tourist spots and a system of historical museums, cultural and religious places. For instance: Independence Palace, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Sai Central Post Office, Cho Lon Market, Thien Hau Temple, Cu Chi Tunnels, etc.
According to a new survey by CEOWorld, Ho Chi Minh City is ranked in the top five best cities in the world for street food. Tourists can enjoy diverse local cuisine and beverages at low prices with roadside restaurants, coffee shops and food stalls.
Landmark 81 is the tallest tower in Vietnam and Southeast Asia so far. Source: Internet
If you still have extra time, we recommend that you should travel to the Southwest region of Vietnam. It is the home of exotic culture, distinct floating life and warm-hearted people.
You will have a chance to enjoy a tranquil atmosphere, savory meals in local boat vendors, and to see endless rice paddies.
Book KLIA to Ho Chi Minh flights with Vietnam Airlines now to enjoy multiple offers and outstanding In-flight services!
Our S-shaped nation has an interesting history, natural diversity and rich cuisine. We welcome people from around the world to explore and experience our wonderful culture.
