|
|
 |
Editor's Review |
|
Vietnam
Orientation first. Vietnam edges the South China Sea, from Hanoi in the north, to Saigon in the south, with Hue in the centre. It’s a boat country – everyday living, commerce, transport, villages and markets, all use the water. It’s where you might deliberately choose a ‘junk’ hotel – afloat on Halong Bay. Vietnamese civilisation began around three millennia ago and many ancient fragments remain. Hanoi offers a multitude of choices: the mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh, the twisting alleys of the old quarter, the lovely Hoan Kiem lake. It’s also the nearest town to the emerald waters of Halong Bay, with its thousands of tiny islands and endless list of water activities. The Imperial City of Hue also has its old town, with an impressive Citadel, the Emperor’s Tomb – and a superb beach 10 mins walk away. On to Saigon, both for the city and for the Mekong Delta. The city is a bustling bright-lights-and-bars place but with many historic attractions for more sedate travellers. (Grim-but-can’t-miss, are the Cu Chi wartime tunnels.) The vast Delta, criss-crossed by minor rivers and canals, is a wonderful area of natural beauty - as well the city’s floating markets. In the same SW corner is Tây Ninh, home to the ‘fusion’ religion of Cao Dai, with a remarkable Great Temple here.
|
|
|
|
|
|
