One of the best ways to explore the Mekong Delta is by bicycle, meandering through lush orchards, rice paddies, and riverside villages. Cycling allows travelers to experience the region’s daily life up close, from farmers tending their fields to locals selling fruit from boats at floating markets. A typical route might include stops at coconut candy workshops, traditional brick kilns, and family-run homestays where visitors can learn to cook Mekong specialties. The delta’s flat terrain makes cycling easy, even for beginners. For a truly immersive experience, combine cycling with a boat trip through the region’s intricate network of waterways.



Vietnam is a country of vibrant festivals, with celebrations taking place year-round. The most important is Tet Nguyen Dan (Vietnamese New Year), a week-long festival marked by family reunions, dragon dances, and firework displays. The Mid-Autumn Festival is a magical time for children, with lantern parades and mooncakes filling the streets. In the highlands, the Gau Tao Festival of the H’mong people is a joyous event featuring traditional music, dance, and sports. Each region has its own unique celebrations, from the buffalo fighting festivals in Do Son to the whale worship festivals of coastal fishing villages. Attending a Vietnamese festival offers a deep dive into the country’s cultural richness.

Traveling by train in Vietnam is a memorable experience, offering scenic views and a slower pace of travel. The Reunification Express, which runs from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, is a historic railway that covers over 1,700 kilometers, passing through picturesque countryside, coastal towns, and bustling cities. One of the most breathtaking stretches is the journey from Da Nang to Hue, which takes passengers over the Hai Van Pass, offering panoramic views of the sea and mountains. For an extraordinary train ride, take the overnight train from Hanoi to Sapa, which winds through misty valleys and rolling hills. Train travel in Vietnam is an excellent way to enjoy the country’s diverse landscapes while relaxing in a comfortable carriage.

Vietnam is the world’s second-largest coffee producer, and its coffee culture is an essential part of daily life. From Hanoi’s hidden cafes to Ho Chi Minh City’s trendy coffee houses, each region has its own take on this beloved beverage. The most famous is cà phê sữa đá, or Vietnamese iced coffee, a strong, sweet coffee made with condensed milk. Another must-try is egg coffee (cà phê trứng), a Hanoi specialty featuring whipped egg yolk over rich espresso. In the Central Highlands town of Buon Ma Thuot, visitors can explore coffee plantations and taste high-quality weasel coffee, made from beans fermented by civets. Vietnam’s coffee culture isn’t just about the drink—it’s about the experience of slowing down, savoring the moment, and engaging in lively conversation over a cup of aromatic brew.

Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s most enchanting destinations, and the monthly Lantern Festival transforms this ancient town into a mesmerizing wonderland. Held on the 14th day of each lunar month, the festival sees the entire Old Town illuminated by thousands of colorful lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere. Locals and visitors alike release paper lanterns onto the Thu Bon River, making wishes for good fortune and happiness. The streets become car-free, allowing for a peaceful stroll through the historic alleys, where traditional music, folk dances, and street performances take place. Vendors sell delicious festival treats such as bánh mì, cao lầu, and sweet sesame snacks. The festival is also an excellent opportunity to visit Hoi An’s historical sites, such as the Japanese Covered Bridge and ancient merchant houses, under the warm glow of lantern light.