Vietnam offers a diverse shopping experience, from bustling markets to high-end boutiques. In Hanoi, the weekend night market in the Old Quarter is a great place to buy traditional handicrafts, silk scarves, and embroidered textiles. Hoi An is famous for its tailor-made clothing, where skilled tailors can create custom suits and dresses in just a few days. If you’re visiting the Mekong Delta, look for coconut candy, a popular sweet treat. In Sapa, handmade textiles woven by ethnic minorities make for unique souvenirs. Lacquerware, ceramic pottery from Bat Trang village, and coffee beans from the Central Highlands are other great purchases to take home.
Hoi An is famous for its monthly Lantern Festival, a magical event where thousands of colorful lanterns illuminate the ancient town. Held on the 14th day of each lunar month, this festival transforms the town into a dreamlike setting as locals and visitors release paper lanterns onto the Thu Bon River. The festival is a celebration of Vietnamese traditions, featuring cultural performances, folk music, and delicious street food. Temples are filled with worshippers, and the streets come alive with the soft glow of lanterns. Whether taking a boat ride along the river or simply strolling through the old town, experiencing the Lantern Festival is an unforgettable highlight of any Vietnam trip.
Water puppetry (múa rối nước) is one of Vietnam’s most fascinating traditional art forms, dating back to the 11th century. Originating in the rice fields of northern Vietnam, this unique performance involves wooden puppets moving over water, controlled by hidden puppeteers behind a bamboo screen. Accompanied by live traditional music, the shows depict scenes from rural life, historical legends, and folk tales. The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi is one of the best places to experience this captivating art form. Performances showcase mythical dragons, farmers harvesting rice, and humorous interactions between villagers. Water puppetry is an enchanting experience that highlights Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage.
For those looking to escape the crowds, the Nam Du Archipelago is a secluded paradise off the southern coast of Vietnam. Comprising 21 islands, this hidden gem offers white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and untouched coral reefs. Unlike the more commercialized Phu Quoc, Nam Du remains relatively undiscovered, making it perfect for a tranquil beach getaway. Activities include snorkeling among colorful marine life, hiking to the Nam Du lighthouse for panoramic views, and indulging in freshly caught seafood at local fishing villages. The best way to explore the islands is by renting a boat and hopping between secluded beaches. With its unspoiled beauty and relaxed atmosphere, Nam Du is a dream destination for travelers seeking a private slice of Vietnam’s coastal charm.
Ninh Binh, often called the “Halong Bay on land,” is a stunning destination of limestone karst formations, lush rice paddies, and winding rivers. Located just a couple of hours from Hanoi, this peaceful province offers breathtaking scenery without the crowds. The best way to explore Ninh Binh is by taking a boat ride through Tam Coc or Trang An, where rivers snake through caves and towering cliffs. Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is especially impressive with its complex network of grottoes and temples. The area is also home to Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest Buddhist temple complex in Vietnam, featuring massive golden Buddha statues and intricate carvings. For panoramic views, a hike up Mua Cave rewards travelers with one of the most breathtaking vistas in Vietnam. Ninh Binh’s charm lies in its serene landscapes, making it a perfect escape from the hustle of city life.
