For travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, Pu Luong Nature Reserve is a hidden paradise. Located in northern Vietnam, this untouched region is known for its terraced rice fields, rolling hills, and traditional stilt houses. Unlike Sapa, Pu Luong remains relatively undiscovered, offering a peaceful and authentic countryside retreat. Visitors can trek through lush valleys, interact with ethnic Thai and Muong communities, and relax in eco-lodges surrounded by nature. The reserve is also home to breathtaking waterfalls and hidden caves, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.



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.

Vietnam is the world’s second-largest coffee producer, and its coffee culture is an experience in itself. Unlike Western-style coffee, Vietnamese coffee is often brewed using a small metal drip filter called a "phin" and is known for its strong, bold flavor. One of the most famous variations is cà phê sữa đá, a sweet and creamy iced coffee made with condensed milk. Egg coffee (cà phê trứng), a Hanoi specialty, combines whipped egg yolk with coffee to create a rich, custard-like drink. Coconut coffee (cà phê dừa) is another delicious option, especially popular in Ho Chi Minh City. Visiting local coffee shops, such as The Note Coffee in Hanoi or Shin Coffee in Ho Chi Minh City, provides a cozy atmosphere to enjoy Vietnam’s unique brews.

Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, is a city rich in history and cultural heritage. The highlight of Hue is the Imperial Citadel, a sprawling complex of palaces, temples, and gates that once housed the Nguyen Dynasty. Walking through its ancient corridors, you can imagine the grandeur of Vietnam’s last emperors. The city is also home to the majestic royal tombs, each uniquely designed to reflect the personality of the ruler it commemorates. The Tomb of Khai Dinh, with its intricate blend of Vietnamese and European architecture, is particularly striking. For a scenic experience, take a boat cruise along the Perfume River, stopping at historic sites such as Thien Mu Pagoda. Hue’s cuisine is another reason to visit, with specialties like bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup) and banh beo (steamed rice cakes).

Ninh Binh, often called "Halong Bay on land," is a breathtaking region of limestone karsts, lush rice paddies, and serene waterways. Located just a two-hour drive from Hanoi, it’s an excellent destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers boat tours through stunning river caves, winding between towering limestone cliffs. Tam Coc, another must-visit, features a scenic boat ride through caves and rice fields, often rowed by local women using their feet. For those interested in history, the ancient capital of Hoa Lu showcases well-preserved temples dedicated to Vietnam’s early kings. A visit to Ninh Binh isn’t complete without a climb to the Mua Cave viewpoint, which rewards adventurers with a panoramic view of the surrounding karst formations and lush countryside.