Imagine you have a vacation that’s neither too long nor too short, and you want to bring some change to your daily routine. There’s an option that’s not too far, about a 3-hour flight away, to switch from Taiwan to Vietnam and experience the country’s unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures.
Vietnam — its “colorful” lakes and mountains, “fragrant” cultural charm, and “authentic” local cuisine are simply intoxicating.Vietnam is one of the oldest cultures in the Asia-Pacific region. For thousands of years, it has been deeply influenced by Chinese culture. Just the Vietnamese-Chinese population alone exceeds one million people, and its food, customs, and festivals are similar to those in Taiwan. Coupled with the historical legacies of early French colonization and the Vietnam War, Vietnam has developed a richly diverse cultural identity. Vietnam is like an elegant and charming lady, as well as a familiar and friendly girl next door.
Vietnam’s unique terrain boasts breathtaking natural beauty, such as Ha Long Bay, known as the “Inland Ha Long Bay.” Located in northeastern Vietnam, about 150 kilometers from Hanoi, it is famous for its dense cluster of 1,969 limestone islands in the bay, and was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.
Ha Long Bay — only by taking a cruise, enjoying the scenery, and dining onboard can you truly appreciate its picturesque beauty. (Image provided by Vietjet Air)
Nha Trang is the capital of Khanh Hoa Province, a coastal city in central-southern Vietnam. With its pristine beaches and excellent diving opportunities, it has quickly become a popular international tourist destination, attracting a large number of backpackers from Southeast Asia. Nha Trang is one of Vietnam’s most important tourism hubs, thanks to its clean and beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and mild climate all year round.
Nha Trang Bay is one of the most beautiful bays in the world. (Image provided by Vietjet Air)
Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is the economic hub of southern Vietnam, a key center for industry and commerce, and was once a representative city of the communist bloc. Today, the entire city is vibrant, with French colonial red-brick buildings visible everywhere. This beautiful city, known as the “Paris of the East,” is almost a must-visit destination for travelers to Vietnam.
Ho Chi Minh City — the historical and cultural traces of Vietnam are fully displayed here. (Image provided by Vietjet Air)
Notre-Dame Square — this church, with a history of over 100 years, is nicknamed the “Red Cathedral” because of its brick-red exterior. The red bricks and all materials used in the church were imported from France. The front of the church features two spires, and inside there are beautiful stained-glass windows, giving the feel of being in Notre-Dame de Paris.
Notre-Dame Square — the brick-red exterior has earned it the nickname “Red Cathedral.” (Image provided by Vietjet Air)
Apart from its scenic beauty, Vietnam’s cuisine also wins hearts. From spring rolls, pho soup, papaya salad, to Vietnamese curry served with French bread, Vietnamese dishes are varied. Though familiar to Taiwanese, they offer an extra refreshing touch of exotic flavor. Vietnamese cuisine emphasizes color, aroma, and taste, often using fish sauce, shallots, crushed peanuts, and fresh herbs to enhance flavors. Dining in Vietnam, even in a foreign land, brings a sense of comfort through familiar and friendly cultural and culinary elements.
A representative Vietnamese dish — spring rolls. (Image provided by Vietjet Air)
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