Vietnam is a country full of history, varied scenery, friendly locals and pretty incredible food. It’s definitely worth a visit if you are a lover of any (or all) of those things, and as there is so much to see, it’s often hard to decide how best to do it. From the hills of Sapa in the north to the Mekong in the south and everything in between, there are different ways to travel Vietnam and sightsee the best of this impressive country. So, which is right for you?
River Cruising in Vietnam
Taking a river cruise is one of the most relaxing ways to travel. You’ve got a travelling base, so there is no need to unpack more than once and you’ll come home to the same stateroom every day – which you can set up just the way you like it. The staff on board will get to know you (and your favourite drink!) pretty quickly, and each day you can choose to either kick back and relax on board or head out to explore on the carefully curated shore excursions.
You’ll primarily dine aboard your ship and you’ll find a mix of meal options, including cuisine inspired by the regions you are river cruising through. Depending on your operator and size of the ship, you can expect to share your journey with between 36 and 108 passengers which fosters a perfect setting to form bonds with like-minded people or have some ‘me’ time. You can be as social or as private as you’d like, with opportunities to mingle or to retire to your stateroom should you choose.
Mekong river cruises provide a focus on the southern region of Vietnam, where the Mekong winds its way through the floating villages and farmlands, as well as incorporating a city stay in Ho Chi Minh City at the start or end of the cruise, depending on the direction of your journey. These river cruises also showcase the highlights of Cambodia, so are a good way to get an insight into more of South East Asia. If seeing more of Vietnam is your focus, perhaps consider combining your river cruise with an overland tour to see more of the country.
Guided Touring in Vietnam
Most multi-day guided tours of Vietnam are operated as small group tours, so you can foster close bonds with your fellow travellers and also with the locals. Travelling with a small group means you can get access to places and experiences that are intimate and quintessential in your destination. If your meals are included in your tour you’ll dine at handpicked restaurants and sometimes in people’s homes, and when you’re left to your own devices, you can take your pick or ask your guide for their recommendation.
Unlike a river cruise, you’ll have to unpack and pack up your gear as you move from place to place. This goes hand in hand with the chance to stay in different styles of accommodation, anything from luxurious hotels to simple homestays with local families, depending on your tour. You will often travel in a combination of coach and local transport, and there are even cycling tours of Vietnam that see you take to the trails and check out the best of the countryside from handlebar height.
Depending on how much time you have to explore Vietnam, you can do a tour that takes in the highlights from north to south (or visa versa) or you can choose an itinerary that focuses on just one region in more depth. No matter which way you choose to do it, or where you choose to spend your time, you’ll be blown away by the countryside, culture, cuisine, and everything that makes Vietnam the beautiful and charming country that it is.
About Global Journeys
Global Journeys is an Online Travel Agency based in Noosa, Queensland, Australia that offers multi-day tours, cruises and river cruises. With a dedicated team of travel consultants and leading technology, Global Journeys partners with the world’s best travel operators to offer their clients over 5,000 trips to choose from worldwide.
Website: www.globaljourneys.com
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Media Contact: Barb Durance – PR & Marketing Manager
