Hanoi (VNA) – Vietnam's tourism sector officially entered the recovery stage after a long hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Acknowledging an increase in demand of search for destinations, US-based online travel booking platform Booking.com announced the 10 most welcoming cities in Vietnam for this year.
The list was based on more than 232 million verified reviews made on its website.
1. Hoi An
As an ancient city that sits along Thu Bon River, Hoi An of Quang Nam province impresses travellers with its unique architectural ensemble that features iconic yellow houses and rich traditional heritage, Booking.com wrote.
Hoi An Ancient Town (Photo: VietnamPlus)
The 400-year-old city is best discovered by foot as it has plenty of stores selling from silk dresses and suits, leather goods, to quirky souvenirs.
Traffic and pollution are almost entirely absent in this city which offers travelers a one-of-a-kind leisure and relaxation experience, it said.
Hoi An is also the only destination in Vietnam to break into the list of 10 most welcoming cities on Earth endorsed by global travellers of Booking.com.
2. Phong Nha
With phenomenal natural beauty and kind local people, Phong Nha in Quang Binh province deserves its rightful place in travelers’ hearts as the second most welcoming city in Vietnam. The combination of breathtaking colossal caves, colourful limestone stalactites, and rich forest jungles create a gradient-like painting impression that is sure to captivate tourists.
The tranquil beauty in Phong Nha (Photo: VNA)
When it comes to joining sightseeing tours along the Son River, enjoy the endless views of peaceful landscapes while being taken around by enthusiastic and hospitable boat men.
3. Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh rose to international fame after being featured as a picturesque setting of the Hollywood blockbuster film “Kong: Skull Island”. Apart from its striking limestone karsts, lush green paddy fields and historic monuments, this destination will offer travelers a great opportunity to peek into the rustic rural life while being welcomed by good-natured locals.
An aerial view of part of the Trang An Landscape Complex in Ninh Binh province (Photo: VietnamPlus)
One of the best ways to experience amazing hidden spots and tasty signature dishes is to get recommendations from the locals who are more than willing to give helpful insider tips.
4. Hue
Hue, the famed ancient capital located in Thua Thien-Hue province in central Vietnam, is well known as a poetic and romantic city. Owing to its rich heritage, this destination represents a land of cultural quintessence and exquisite traditions that will appeal to any history lover.
The relaxed pace of the city will also provide a pleasant escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, while its gastronomic scene, which features imperial cuisine and mouthwatering street food, will prove to be a treat to the senses.
5. Mui Ne
It’s easy to lose track of time in Mui Ne (Binh Thuan province) with a handful of leisure activities and high-adrenaline experiences amidst an incredible setting of stunning pristine beaches, golden sand dunes and countless luxury resorts.
A beautiful beach in Binh Thuan province (Photo: VietnamPlus)
With ideal conditions for sand sliding, windsurfing, kite-flying and kayaking, adventure lovers can enjoy a fun-filled day no matter what activity they choose to experience. Alternatively, travelers can simply spend a lazy afternoon by the pool or feast on fresh seafood in one of the restaurants at Mui Ne’s beautiful coastlines with the sound of the sea in the background.
6. Tuy Hoa
The climate of Phu Yen province is excellent all year round, so travelers can visit at any time of the year without having to worry about the weather. Tuy Hoa city will be loved by beach lovers due to its gorgeous shorelines and, unlike the crowded beaches of Nha Trang and Mui Ne, beaches in this city have a peaceful and laid-back atmosphere.
Discovering the cultural and historical stories, as well as admiring the architecture of the Champa people, is also an interesting experience that tourists should try.
7. Mai Chau
For those looking for a calm destination rich in nature and culture that’s free from bustling urban noises, Mai Chau (Hoa Binh province) is an ideal getaway.
Rice fields in Mai Chau (Photo: VietnamPlus)
Just a three-hour drive from Hanoi, the idyllic district of Mai Chau offers travelers unforgettable experiences such as cycling through beautiful rice fields, visiting minority villages, and enjoying traditional dances and music performed by local ethnic groups. The hospitality of the locals and its casual atmosphere are the main charms of this destination.
8. Dong Hoi
Thanks to the discovery of the world’s largest caves in Quang Binh province – Son Doong, Dong Hoi is no longer a destination that flies under the radar. Exploring the magnificent Son Doong cave and capturing one of the most iconic and “magical” moments when the sun shines through the cave sinkhole is guaranteed to be an astonishing experience in Dong Hoi.
The beauty inside Son Doong Cave (Photo: VietnamPlus)
If you are seeking for more relaxing activities, Booking.com suggests having a leisurely stroll along the banks of the romantic Nhat Le River to hear the waves lapping against the shore while admiring the fiery sunset.
9. Sa Pa
With no shortage of gorgeous landscapes, Sa Pa (Lao Cai province), dubbed as the “Gateway To Heaven”, is one of the unique destinations every traveler should visit for a refreshing escape into the clouds. What attracts thousands of travelers are Sa Pa’s magnificent views from Fansipan Mountain, picturesque ethnic villages, and spectacular rice terraces.
An aerial view of Muong Hoa village (Photo: VietnamPlus)
Other than that, the warm nature and unique local lifestyles impresses travelers around the world with this cool-weathered destination.
10. Con Dao
A journey to the tourist paradise, Con Dao (Ba Ria-Vung Tau) is the ideal choice for those who want to discover the endless beauty of one of the most charming and mysterious islands in the country.
The pristine beauty of Con Dao (Photo: VietnamPlus)
What draws travelers are the untouched natural landscapes blessed with stunning beaches and rich coral reefs, the tranquility of the place, and the cultural and historical imprints found all over the island./.
