British newspaper's 6 underrated spots in Vietnam worth discovering
For travelers seeking nature and a path less trodden, British newspaper The Independent recommends six underrated destinations in Vietnam, from golden rice terraces to beaches.
Mu Cang Chai District - Yen Bai Province
The terraced rice fields of Mu Cang Chai, 300 kilometers north of Hanoi, glitter in gold and green during harvest season, colors unique to the northwest mountains. The rice paddies stretch as far as the eye can see, interwoven with green forests.
But this highland district offers more than just the fields, and visitors can enjoy hot springs, local markets, festivals, and a variety of foods.
Photo by Giang Huy
Bai Tu Long Bay - Quang Ninh Province
Bai Tu Long Bay is located in the northeast, 182 kilometers from Hanoi and close to Ha Long Bay.
The bay has hundreds of islets and a network of caves. It has a national park spread over thousands of hectares of islands and sea.
A popular choice here for tourists is a five-star cruise with an overnight stay and a visit to a fishing village. There is no entrance fee, and visitors only have to pay for boat tickets and port services. Shared cruises cost VND150,000 - VND250,000 ($5.70 - $9.60) per person, and multiple routes are available.
Phong Nha Town – Quang Binh Province
Phong Nha is about 490 kilometers from Hanoi and is a destination for nature and adventure. Visitors can explore Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The place is home to the world's largest cave, Son Doong.
Travelers can relax on a boat ride along the Son River or go hiking and biking. There are also opportunities to engage with local culture. Visitors are advised to avoid visiting during the rainy season from October to December.
Photo courtesy of Sovaba Travel
Quy Nhon City - Binh Dinh Province
Quy Nhon is a city in south-central Vietnam lying between the sea and mountains with beaches with golden sand and clear water. It is situated 1,060 kilometers from Hanoi and 650 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City.
It is known for its seafood and Cham relics such as Twin Cham Towers and Banh It Towers dating back to the 11th century.
Photo by Nguyen Phuoc Hoai
Phan Thiet City - Binh Thuan Province
Situated 210 kilometers from HCMC, Phan Thiet is perfect for short weekend trips. Visitors can explore the fishing village of Mui Ne and visit sand dunes. The seafood is also a major draw.
Phan Thiet is worth visiting all year round, though April to August is best for swimming and sunbathing. Between August and December it has bigger waves that could appeal to surfers. December brings rain, and so umbrellas are advised in case of outdoor plans.
Photo by Huy Thoai
Da Lat City - Lam Dong Province
Da Lat is situated 1,500 meters above sea level on the Lam Vien Plateau and around 300 kilometers from HCMC. With its year-round cool climate, it offers an escape from the southern heat.
The city has its dry season between October and December, and this is the best time to see cloud-covered mountains just outside the city.
Photo by Van Phu
