Although the Vietnam War will always clinch a place in world history, modern Vietnam is far from being the war - torn country depicted in many fictionalised stories and television shows. In actuality, although its tourism industry is relatively modern, Vietnam is fast becoming one of the favourite holiday destinations of travel junkies. The reality that it is not conclusively very ' commercialised ' seems to be one reason vacationers raise it other destinations. Vietnam is perfect for low - interpretation walking holidays during which one can bask in the charm of nature, soak in the culture and history of the area, and enjoy the heat and hospitality of its locals.
Listed below are some of the sites that we recommend you not miss during your walking holidays in Vietnam.
Cu Chi Tunnels
Travelling to historic Cu Chi, you will enjoy the sight of rubber plantations and rice fields that abound in the countryside. Once a battleground during the Vietnam War, Cu Chi is now a one of the top tourist destinations due to the existence of a maze - like network of tunnels that is approximately 75 miles long - a perfect site for your walking holidays. During the war, thousands of Vietnamese people, soldiers and villagers alike, hid as battles raged on the surface. Through the long years of the war, the tunnels were continually expanded to include meeting rooms, storage areas, and even hospitals. To encourage a more ' authentic ' experience, visitors are encouraged don ' guerrilla ' uniforms when touring the tunnels. Although the passageways have been widened and steps and lights have been added for the convenience of tourists, the tunnels continue to be a grim reminder of the dark days of the Vietnam War.
Hoi An
Another great choice for your walking holidays is the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hoi An, a charming trading seaport town dating back to the 15th century. Called the Ancient Town, it was the once the largest harbour in Southeast Asia and was the most commercially successful seaport until the end of the 18th century. Despite the ravages of time and the elements, many of Hoi An ' s original structures have been superbly preserved, and walking down its streets gives one the feeling of stepping back in time. This nostalgia is heightened by the people and their traditions. For example, hearing people sing folk songs as they work is not uncommon. Visitors are treated to a special experience during the 14th night of every lunar month as the town turns off all electric lights and hangs colourful decorative lanterns in front of their houses - a tradition for more than 300 years. On such a night, it would not be hard to fall under its spell and truly believe that you have been transported back to a simpler, more tranquil era.
Hu
Another World Heritage site, Hu also transports visitors to an earlier era. The capital city of Thua Thien, Hu was the imperial capital of the Nguyen dynasty from 1802 and 1945. Today, the structures and architecture of Hu and its neighbouring continue to attract visitors from all over the world, including its many tombs and pagodas. Examples are the expansive Tu Duc tombs and the Thien Mu pagoda; the Japanese - style Thanh Toan bridge; and The Citadel, which was once the seat of the imperial government. Guides are available for tours through The Citadel, and visitors can also view a cultural performance. Visitors can also have their photo taken wearing royal dress sitting on the Emperor ' s throne or at the Hall of the Mandarins.
