Grab your beachwear and get ready to swim, surf, lounge, soak up the sun and people-watch – your best beach days await.

Here are eight Southeast Asian beaches to check out for your next beach adventure.

1. Naithon Beach, Phuket, Thailand

While it’s one of the lesser-known beaches in Phuket, Naithon Beach is still as much of a gem as its sister beaches Patong and Kata.

Embracing a slower pace than its sisters, Naithon Beach is the perfect spot for a restful and relaxing beach experience. This bucolic seaside village feels remote, but has all your modern necessities for a great Thai beach holiday.

For a break from the beach, head to the nearby Phuket Elephant Care, a sanctuary for retired working elephants. Be sure to check out the Naithon Wooden Bridge and Banana Beach too.

2. Nai Yang Beach, Phuket, Thailand

Nai Yang Beach is an excellent spot for kitesurfing and sunbathing on the sands. After all the beach activities, check out the nearby Nai Yang market to mingle with the community or visit Wat Mongkol Wararam, an ancient temple that is walking distance from the beach.

You’ll also be able to find plenty of food options up and down the stretch of Nai Yang Beach. This is where even the most seasoned of Phuket trekkers go for a slice of peace. So take it easy, grab some beach grub and do some people-watching as you while the day away.

3. Patong Beach, Phuket, Thailand

If you prefer a little bit more action, the area around Patong Beach is where you can be closer to the hustle and bustle of town. As popular a destination as Phuket itself, Patong Beach is known for its neon-soaked nightlife and its amazing street food.

Folks looking to tap into the spirituality of the area can take a pilgrimage to Wat Chalong, the largest Buddhist temple in Phuket.

Shopaholics can make a different kind of pilgrimage to the Phuket Weekend Market for all their souvenirs and retail needs or even to the shopping complexes for a multi-story, air-conditioned retail therapy.

4. Bai Dai Beach, Phu Quoc, Vietnam

Known for its powder-white beaches, Bai Dai Beach (aka Long Beach) is the jewel of Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island. Located west of Phu Quoc, the beach is where the Gulf of Thailand and Vietnam meet.

From the colourful culture to the fantastic food options everywhere you look, Bai Dai Beach offers something for everyone. You can buy the catch of the day fresh off the fisherman’s boat or the local seafood market. Enjoy a BBQ party right on the shoreline and feast on the freshest and finest catches of the sea.

Be sure to sample local specialities like sim wine at the Sim Garden Bay Gao or fish sauce from the Quoc Hai fish sauce factory. Craving something on the sweeter side? Try the grilled bananas wrapped in sticky rice from Phu Quoc Night Market.

5. My Khe Beach, Danang, Vietnam

With over 50km of picturesque white sand and turquoise waters, My Khe Beach is ranked as one of Vietnam’s most beautiful beaches. Take time to discover hole-in-the-wall restaurants that make their mark right next to high-end resorts on the coastline.

My Khe Beach offers plenty of water activities including snorkelling, jet-skiing, surfing, sunbathing and fishing.

Be sure to plan a trip to the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hoi An Ancient Town, a well-preserved traditional Southeast Asian trading port and commercial centre.

6. An Bang Beach, Hoi An, Vietnam

Located about 3km from the heart of Hoi An Ancient Town, An Bang Beach has been consistently voted as one of Asia’s top 10 beaches, thanks to its powder-white sand, blue skies and stunning views. 

Visit An Bang Beach between March and September when little rain is expected for the best beach experience.

Popular water activities at the beach include diving and snorkelling in crystal-clear waters to discover the world beneath the waves – from coral formations to colourful tropical fish. There’s also no shortage of sandcastle-building opportunities on the beach or exciting water activities like paddle boarding or kayaking for intrepid adventurers.

7. Kuta Beach, Bali, Indonesia

Bordering Legian to the north and Tuban to the south, Kuta Beach is a hotspot for beach lovers and surf enthusiasts.

A fabulous marriage of sun, sand and surf, the beach is best visited early in the day. Join the legions of surfers who religiously catch a wave on the ocean swells.

Besides being a great spot for people-watching, Kuta Beach is also where you’ll also experience plenty of encounters with beach vendors and masseuses hawking their wares and services like beach sarongs, massages and cold drinks.

When the sun goes down, the beach takes on a different personality! Chill out with a bottle of ice-cold Bintang beer, chat with the locals or other tourists, and keep an eye out for fire dancers who light up the night with their artistic performances.

8. Lepang Beach, Klungkung, Bali, Indonesia

Get a glimpse of rural Bali as you make your way to Lepang Beach as you’ll pass by paddy fields and plantations. An emerging tourist spot, Lepang Beach is known for its sparkling black and soft sand, as well as its coastline which is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, cycling and catching captivating sunsets.

Enjoy authentic, local delicacies whipped up by the charming warungs (eateries) that pop up along its coastline. Lepang Beach is still a sleepy wonder of a place that is worth a visit if you’re looking to take a step back and reconnect with nature.

*This article has been edited and adapted from Now Boarding by Changi Airport’s “8 best beach destinations in Southeast Asia (Phuket, Phu Quoc, Bali and more)”

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It’s time to dive into Southeast Asia’s hidden corners and immerse yourself in a mosaic of cultures, stories and experiences.

From the historical sites of Luang Prabang in Laos to the tranquil landscapes of Ninh Binh, Vietnam, here are five often overlooked tourist destinations in Southeast Asia to add to your 2024 travel bucket list. Whether you’re a first-time adventurer or a seasoned traveller, it’s time to embark on an adventure to these lesser-known, yet magnificent locales.

1. Ninh Binh, Vietnam

Often referred to as “Halong Bay on land”, Ninh Binh is one of Southeast Asia’s best, yet underrated scenic wonders. It offers an idyllic retreat with its towering limestone cliffs and serene rivers, as well as local homestays and motorcycle tours.

Take a traditional boat ride through the Trang An Grottoes or cycle around the peaceful rice fields. Just a two-hour drive from Hanoi, the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and the majestic Bai Dinh Pagoda also showcase the region’s rich history and spirituality.

Established in the year 968 by King Dinh Bo Linh, Hoa Lu was the very first capital of what we now consider Vietnam. Originally surrounded by a citadel and the Yen Ngua limestone hills, the village today offers a rare glimpse into ancient Vietnamese history and traditional Vietnamese culture. Do visit landmarks like Dinh Tien Hoang Temple, Le Hoan Temple and Nhat Tru Pagoda, or plan a trek up the 200m-high Ma Yen Mountain.

If you time your visit to Hoa Lu right, you might even get a chance to witness traditional cultural festivals like the Truong Yen Festival. Held annually from the eighth to 10th of the third lunar month, it commemorates ancient kings Dinh Tien Hoang and Le Dai Hanh through dragon dances, traditional games and other activities.

2. Luang Prabang, Laos

Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site, effortlessly marries natural beauty with spiritual depth. This enchanting town, nestled at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, is an epitome of tranquillity and cultural richness.

Start your day by witnessing the daily alms-giving ceremony, where monks clad in simple saffron robes walk silently through the streets to gather alms from locals. Visitors are encouraged to observe respectfully, or you can join a local early morning tour to partake in the alms offering as well.

Take a step deeper into Laotian culture and history by visiting any of the 30+ temples and cultural institutions throughout the town. With its sweeping roofs and intricate mosaics, Wat Xieng Thong showcases traditional craftsmanship, while the Royal Palace Museum, once the King’s residence, offers history buffs a window into Laos’ royal past.

No trip to Luang Prabang is complete without a visit to Kuang Si Waterfall. Located just a short drive from the town centre, the multi-tiered waterfall cascades into turquoise pools, creating a refreshing oasis. Hike up to the top of the waterfall for a panoramic view, swim in the inviting pools or simply relax by the water’s edge.

3. Rayong, Thailand

If you’ve been to the beach resorts of Phuket, Ko Samui, and Pattaya and loved them, you’ll have to add Rayong to your Southeast Asia travel bucket list. Characterised by unspoiled beaches, lush landscapes and a rich cultural fabric, Rayong offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city life.

A 2.5-hour drive from Bangkok, Rayong makes a great day trip destination especially for those who want a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Each of the pristine beaches along Rayong’s coastline offers its own unique charm. Mae Ramphueng Beach is a popular destination for its long sandy stretch and calm waters, ideal for sunbathing and swimming. For a more secluded experience, Sai Kaew Beach in Samed National Park is a hidden gem, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life which is perfect for snorkelling.

You can also take a short boat ride from the mainland to Koh Samet, an island boasting white-sand beaches such as Ao Prao and Ao Noina. Indulge in water sports, explore the island’s natural beauty on a scooter or kick back on a deck chair and unwind by the sea. At night, the beach resorts come alive with fire shows and beach bars, offering a taste of Thailand’s vibrant nightlife.

Foodies are in for a treat as the province is famous for its fruit plantations that produce the sweet and juicy Rayong mango. Local markets such as Ban Phe Market offer a plethora of freshly caught seafood and Thai delicacies along with souvenirs which make great mementos of your trip.

4. Surigao del Sur, Philippines

Begin your adventure at Tinuy-an Falls, often hailed as the “Niagara Falls of the Philippines”. Each level of this multi-tiered waterfall offers a unique perspective and experience – from the grandeur of the main drop to the serene pools perfect for swimming. You can hire a bamboo raft to get even closer to the waterfall, relishing the refreshing mist of the water’s spray.

Another nature spot to explore is Britania Islands, a group of 24 serene, tropical islands and islets. Each island has its distinct character – from the powdery white sands of Hagonoy Island to the rocky outcrops of Boslon Island. Island-hopping is the best way to explore these islands which offer plenty of opportunities for snorkelling, swimming and picnicking on secluded, yet beautiful beaches.

End your island-hopping experience with a visit to the Enchanted River in Hinatuan, a deep spring river with stunningly clear, blue waters. The river is ideal for swimming and snorkelling, offering a surreal experience as you explore its depths. There are picnic spots, cafes and other facilities conveniently located around the river for chilling out.

5. Cardamom Mountains, Cambodia

Spanning over 4.4 million hectares, Cardamom Mountains is one of the largest rainforests in Southeast Asia. Teeming with wildlife, native flora and plenty of natural landmarks from waterfalls to swamps, the rainforest is an off-the-beaten-track escape for eco-conscious travellers and nature lovers who want to immerse themselves in a raw, unfiltered nature experience.

For an immersive back-to-nature experience, stay at Cardamom Tented Camp. Located in Botum Sakor National Park, the eco-lodge camp offers safari-style glamping tents in an environmentally conscious ecotourism setting amidst the dense forest.

Camp activities include guided trekking, self-guided hiking, zip lining, tubing and kayaking. But where the eco-lodge really stands out is its conservation-related activities for visitors such as cataloguing flora and fauna in conservation areas; learning sessions about poaching and logging; setting up camera traps to monitor local wildlife; and accompanying park rangers on their patrols.

For a genuine immersion into Cambodian rural life, a visit to Chi Phat is a must. This community-based ecotourism village offers homestays, allowing visitors to live and interact with local families. Activities in Chi Phat are diverse and range from trekking and ancient burial sites to bat caves, bird watching and night-time wildlife spotting. The village is also a starting point for mountain bike tours and jungle treks, offering a deeper exploration of Cardamom’s natural wonders.

*This article has been edited and adapted from Now Boarding by Changi Airport’s “Hidden gems await: 5 underrated Southeast Asian destination”

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In 2022 and 2023, Vietnam’s largest island was named the world’s leading nature island destination at the World Travel Awards.

Half of the 574km² island is a UNESCO-protected National Park which features rugged mountains, lush forests, hiking trails, wildlife and waterfalls, offering adventure seekers and nature lovers plenty of opportunities for fun outdoor activities and discoveries.

As the island is surrounded by fringing reefs that are home to a variety of tropical fish and coral life, its surrounding waters is a haven for snorkellers and scuba divers.

Landlubbers are not left out as the island has cultural and historical landmarks and activities that offer immersive and memorable experiences.

We spotlight five experiences you shouldn’t miss on Phu Quoc island.

1. Explore the island’s beautiful beaches

Boasting a coastline that stretches for 150km, Phu Quoc is a beach lover’s dream destination! The island has 21 beaches, offering something for everyone.

Besides swimming and sunbathing, Sao (Star) Beach, known for its powdery white sand and clear waters, is great for snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking, windsurfing and jet skiing.

As its name suggests, Starfish (Rach Vem) Beach is famous for the orange starfish that can be found on its sandbank especially in the months of September and October.

True to its name, Long Beach has a coastline stretching some 20km long. The buzzy beach strip has luxury hotels, high-end restaurants, cafes, beach clubs, bars, souvenir shops and tourist services.

Located on the west coast, Ong Lang Beach boasts some of the best sunset views on the island.

On the northwestern coast is the more secluded white sand Ganh Dau Beach, surrounded by pristine forest and mountains, and also famous for its revolutionary past.

2. Spot white lions at Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc & conquer thrilling games at VinWonders Phu Quoc

Get ready for loads of close-up encounters with wildlife at Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc, the country’s first semi-wildlife park. Home to over 3,000 animals from 150 different species including rare and endangered ones, the wildlife conservation park has an Open Zoo and a Safari Park.

At the Open Zoo, you can catch animal shows and spot square-lipped rhinoceros, lemurs, white lions, scimitar oryx and Bongo antelope, among other animals.

Kids aged 5 to 12 will love Kid Zoo where they can play the role of junior zookeepers and participate in activities such as feeding giraffes and cleaning the animals’ houses.

Over at the Safari Park, you’ll get to experience the feeling of being enclosed in a bus while animals like Bengal tigers, lions, white rhinoceros and leopards roam freely around you!

For thrilling rides, high-tech games, shows and performances, head to VinWonders Phu Quoc, one of Vietnam’s largest theme parks. The entertainment paradise has six zones, each with 12 distinct themes inspired by global civilisations, fairy tales and anecdotes.

Be transported to the picturesque streets of mediaeval Europe, filled with bustling shops and iconic brick houses with pointed roofs, at European Streetmosphere. At Fairy World, Alice in Wonderland fans can follow Alice to meet favourite characters like Mad Hatter, Cheshire Cat and White Rabbit.

At The Sea Shell, one of the world’s five largest aquariums, engage in interactive experiences like fish feeding, dining with sharks and taking photos with mermaids.

At Mysterious Viking Village, experience the life of a Viking warrior by engaging in activities like navigating challenging waters, crossing a precarious bridge, ziplining across a raging river and embracing the heroic melodies and powerful dances of victory songs.    

Typhoon World offers over 35 exciting water games including Oahu Waves where you plunge into tsunami-like splashes; Maui Twin Tornadoes where you face the fury of fierce tornadoes as you slide down Vietnam’s most thrilling spiral slide; and Serpent’s Venom where you discover your limits on the country’s first 175 metre-long slide.

3. Discover the secrets of fish sauce production & pepper cultivation

Love fish sauce or pepper? Find out how the two prized items are produced on the island by visiting fish sauce factories and pepper farms.

A major contributor to the island’s economy, fish sauce has been produced on Phu Quoc for over 200 years. About 12 million litres of fish sauce are produced every year by some 85 factories on the island. In 2021, Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism officially recognised the island’s fish sauce production as a national intangible cultural heritage.

Fish sauce is made by combining anchovies, salt, water and sometimes locally grown pepper, then fermented through various stages between six months to a year. The highest quality fish sauce is nuoc mam nhi, the first liquid to come out from the barrel containing the fermented anchovies, or extra-virgin fish sauce.

Fish sauce factories that you can visit include Hung Thanh and Khai Hoan in Duong Dong town and Phung Hung in An Thoi town along the river.

Thanks to Phu Quoc’s mineral-rich soil, its peppers have hard seeds, firm skins and remarkable aroma and taste. Two main types of pepper trees are cultivated on the island: Ha Tien and Phu Quoc (large leaf pepper and small leaf pepper).

Head to pepper farms like Phu Quoc Countryside (aka Phu Quoc Pepper Farm), Duc Ninh, Suoi Da and Khu Tuong to learn about the planting, harvesting and drying processes of peppers, and bring home fresh pepper products.

4. See scenes of past torture at the island’s most prominent historic site 

Get a glimpse of the island’s heroic history at Phu Quoc Prison, aka Phu Quoc Coconut Tree Prison or Phu Quoc Prison Camp.

Built in 1946 by the French colonialists to imprison Vietnamese dissidents during the Indochina War, the former prison is a poignant reminder of the island’s turbulent past during the colonial occupation and Vietnam War.

Covering an area of 400 hectares, it was said to be the largest prison in Southeast Asia at the time. At its peak, it housed up to 40,000 prisoners. In 1967, it was reconstructed and expanded to 12 main areas with 500 barracks.

Watch a short screening of the island’s history and check out artefacts, documentary illustrations and camp records at the Exhibition House of Relics.

Brace yourself for re-enactments of gruesome scenes of inhumane punishments including the notorious Catso Tiger Cages at the B2 Section.

A popular photo spot at the Prisoner Graveyard is the fist monument which represents the indomitable spirit and sacrifices of the prisoners.

5. Feast on street food & soak up buzzy vibes at night markets

A trip to Phu Quoc would not be complete without exploring its night markets and indulging in its popular street food.

Head straight for the famous Phu Quoc Night Market on Bach Dang Street in the heart of Duong Dong Town. The night market has over 100 stalls, a food zone and a shopping section.

Located at the start of the night market, the food zone is lined with food stalls and carts selling dried goods like fish sauce, dried seafood and sim wine, a local speciality made from the fruits of  local rose myrtle trees.

Feast on live seafood like crabs, fish, prawns, clams, scallops, oysters, snails, squids and mussels, either grilled, boiled, stir fried or deep fried, and enjoy them with local dips and sauces. Be sure to leave space for popular street eats like Vietnamese pizza, grilled skewed meats, grilled corn, Chou Chou peanuts, ice cream rolls, coconut ice cream, palm sugar honeycomb cake and stretched sugar candy.

Towards the end of the night market is the shopping area where you can shop for T-shirts, shoes, bags, handicrafts, cosmetics, paintings, jewellery and Phu Quoc’s famous pearls.

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There’s never a dull moment in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s largest city and the main hub of the southern region. Formerly known as Saigon, the city has an energetic vibe that’s characterised by a vibrant mix of tradition and modernity.

We spotlight six must-dos when you are visiting the bustling city. 

1. Discover historical marvels and war memorials

Ho Chi Minh City is steeped in history, with landmarks that tell stories of both its colonial past and its pivotal role in Vietnam’s recent history. The War Remnants Museum offers a profound, albeit sombre, perspective on the Vietnam War with its compelling exhibits. Similarly, the Reunification Palace stands as a symbol of the country’s reunified era.

For a glimpse into the city’s colonial architecture, the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and the Saigon Central Post Office, designed by French architect Marie-Alfred Foulhoux, are must-visits.

2. Indulge in the city’s local specialities and street food staples

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned worldwide and Ho Chi Minh City is the perfect place to indulge in a delicious array of local flavours. From restaurants and cafes serving contemporary Vietnamese dishes to street stalls, pushcarts and bicycle vendors offering pho, banh mi, banh xeo, banh cuon, hu tieu, com tam and more, it’s no surprise that the city is a foodie paradise.

Be sure to visit the bustling Ben Thanh Market where you can enjoy a variety of local eats as well as shop for a wide range of souvenirs.

3. Enjoy the city’s lively nightlife scene through its rooftop bars

As the sun sets, the city transforms into a lively hub of entertainment. District 1, known for its rooftop bars, offers stunning city views accompanied by cocktails and music.

For a more local experience, head to the famous Bui Vien Street in the Pham Ngu Lao backpacker district which is home to bars, live music venues and street food spots.

4. Go on day trips to the Mekong Delta and Cu Chi Tunnels

Venture beyond the city to experience the lush landscapes of the Mekong Delta. A day trip here includes exploring floating markets, riding through canals and tasting local fruits.

History enthusiasts will not want to miss the Cu Chi Tunnels, an immense network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong to evade American and South Vietnamese forces during the Vietnam War. As you’ll be exploring tight underground spaces, do dress appropriately.

5. Shop like a local for the best value

Ho Chi Minh City has its fair share of high-end malls and department stores like Vincom Center, Diamond Plaza, Hung Vuong Plaza, Saigon Centre and Van Hanh Mall, but for the best local shopping experience, visit a local market. 

Besides Ben Thanh Market, bustling markets like An Dong Market, Binh Tay Market and Hanh Thong Tay Market sell everything from clothing, accessories, footwear, textile and handicrafts to fresh produce, spices and local delicacies. Not only do the markets offer some of the best deals in the city, they also provide opportunities for you to interact with the locals, practise your bargaining skills and immerse in the lively atmosphere. 

6. Explore Vietnamese culture and local lifestyle

Get a peek into Vietnamese culture, a fascinating blend of old and new, by visiting the city’s temples and pagodas such as Jade Emperor Pagoda, Giac Lam Pagoda, Thien Hau Pagoda, Phu Chau Floating Temple and Phuoc An Hoi Quan Pagoda. 

One of the best ways to experience the local way of life is to go on a walking tour through the city’s historic districts. Flower fans must check out Ho Thi Ky Flower Market, one of the city’s largest flower markets, in District 10. Besides a diverse range of fresh flowers, floral products and potted plants, the flower market also has lots of food vendors offering a mouth-watering array of popular street food.

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Phong Nha is the jumping-off point for expeditions to Son Doong Cave, which has gained global fame as the largest cave in the world. But Son Doong Cave is not all that Phong Nha has to offer. Read on to learn more about the other subterranean adventures that you can embark on from the town.

1. Explore Son Doong Cave and other caves in the area

Back in 2009, the world learned of the colossal wonder known as Son Doong Cave, as an intrepid expedition team declared it the planet’s largest natural limestone cave. This astonishing revelation gained the stamp of approval from none other than the National Geographic in 2011, solidifying the cave’s legendary status.

Son Doong may have grabbed all the headlines with its mammoth rock formations, 9km length and caverns that can fit a 747 plane, but it is just part of a huge system of caves in the region, some of which are almost as big as Son Doong.

Other notable caves in the area include Hang En, which ranks as the third largest cave in the world. There is also Hang Va, where uniquely conical stalagmites have formed over the millennia. Known as tower cones, these extraordinary formations are one of the main reasons Hang Va stands out as a true gem, even amongst cave experts.

All of these caves were formed through the erosion of easily soluble limestone mountains and most of them are located within or around the protected area of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Dense vegetation means that the area is not yet fully explored, and it is possible that there are caverns even larger than Son Doong that remain undiscovered by cave experts!

2. Pick a cave tour that meets your fitness level or budget

In order to protect Son Doong’s unique environment, the Vietnamese government has imposed strict limits on the number of tourists to the cave. Independent visits are banned, and you’ll have to embark on a guided six-day, five-night caving tour with an eye-watering price tag of US$3,000 if you want to see it for yourself.

If Son Doong is out of your budget, you’ll be pleased to learn that there are other guided cave tours to suit almost all budgets as well as your fitness level. From expeditions to exploring giant caves with both dry and river passages, and day treks that bring you into deep jungles of popular cave systems, there are plenty of options. And as long as you can walk and navigate a few staircases, you’ll be able to go for a tour of at least one massive cave.

The easiest of the cave tours is a tour of Phong Nha Cave. The half-day tour entails a boat ride up the river that runs through town to the cave. The cave entrance is in the middle of a sheer cliff. Within the cave, like the other nearby caves in the region, you’ll find spectacular rock formations which have been shaped by millions of years of erosion and deposition. These rock formations take on animal names like “Lion,” “Unicorn” and “Kneeling Elephant”.

Split into distinct realms, Phong Nha Cave unfolds in two captivating dimensions. Firstly, the elevated dry caves sit perched at a lofty 200m above ground. Secondly, the adventure takes a subterranean turn into the wet caves, where an enigmatic underground river flows.

Another fairly easy half-day tour is to Paradise Cave – although it does involve a 20-minute uphill hike, but you’ll be rewarded with even more dramatic cave formations.

There are also tours to Dark Cave, which is especially popular among the backpacker crowd. It is reached by a zipline into a river, and its interior features oozing mud which is supposedly good for the skin. So, if your heart races for thrills and excitement, with a dash of obstacle courses, exhilarating swims, kayaking, rejuvenating mud baths, cave exploration and even a thrilling journey on Vietnam’s longest zipline, then this is an adventure tailored just for you!

3. Go on multi-day tours for more thrills

For thrillseekers and adventure junkies, there are multi-day tours to other cave systems, led by specialist tour operators. There’s a great variety of choices, based on the number of days and the caves you want to experience.

There’s a four-day, three-night expedition to the Tu Lan cave system, led by Oxalis Adventure Tours (which is also the only adventure tour company with the right to lead Son Doong tours), which heightens the adventure level with unique opportunities to raft and swim through rivers in the caves. A highlight of the tour is plunging into an icy underground river with clothes, footwear and backpack on (you’ll need to bring all your gear from one campsite to the next), and paddling against the current to reach a small rapids system, which you’ll have to traverse.

Other cave tours also have their unique selling points. The Hang En tour gives you the chance to camp on a “beach” (more like a sandy river bank) within the cave. At certain times of the year, morning sunbeams penetrate the campsite, making for stunning photos. Meanwhile, the Hang Tien tour brings you to a cave with a huge dome-shaped ceiling structure and formations shaped like terraced rice paddies.

Regardless of the tour you choose, you’ll be able to admire stunning stalactites and stalagmites, giant cave pearls, cliffs of flowstone and many other peculiar rock formations. You’ll also probably come across local wildlife on the cave ceiling and cave floors which include huntsman spiders, cave crickets, leeches and nesting bats. But leave them alone and they will not bother you.

The tour operators will handle the logistics so you’re in good hands. You’ll also get to learn about the history and geology of the caves, and will usually be accompanied by safety assistants, porters and even a chef who will whip up a spread of delicious food at every meal.

4. Explore the surrounding countryside on two wheels

After you’ve had your fill of subterranean adventure, most accommodations in Phong Nha can loan you a bicycle to explore the nearby rural landscape and communities. You can also rent a motorcycle if you feel like taking things even easier after the arduous journey.

Start with the picturesque Bong Lai Valley, which lies less than an hour’s bicycle ride away. It offers several worthy pit stops including:
• The Duck Stop, a working farm whose star attraction is a pen where you can feed and play with adorable ducks
• The Pub with Cold Beer, which, despite its name, is actually a restaurant famous locally for its whole roasted chicken
• The Bong Lai Swing Nature Farm offers swings overlooking the valley and wilderness

Things To Note

• Phong Nha is most easily accessed via a short flight to Dong Hoi City from Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, and then a 30-minute taxi ride from Dong Hoi Airport.

• Many of the caves (and sometimes even Phong Nha town itself) are flooded during the rainy season (around September to November), and are inaccessible. Avoid travelling to Phong Nha during this period, especially if you intend to go caving.

• Drop your preconceived notions of Vietnam as a tropical destination, and pack your cold-weather clothing if you’re travelling in the winter season (around November to March). It can get surprisingly chilly – temperatures can hit around 10°C in late-December.

• Expect your clothes and footwear to get wet and/or muddy if you embark on a multi-day cave tour. You’ll need to ford or even swim through streams and underground rivers, so do not wear anything you cannot bear to get dirty!

Photos courtesy of Changi Airport Group

*This article has been edited and adapted from Now Boarding by Changi Airport’s “Best way to explore beautiful caves in Vietnam – Son Doong Cave, Phong Nha Cave, and more”

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Step into the bustling streets of Hanoi with its colonial architecture and never-ending motorbike traffic. Retreat to nature and experience the serene sights of Halong Bay, a UNESCO heritage site and home to Hollywood movie sets. End the trip with a trek along the terraced rice fields of Sapa, the only place in Vietnam that experiences snowfall in winter.

We spotlight 3 best things to do in Hanoi, Halong Bay and Sapa in a week.

Indulge in Hanoi’s food and catch a glimpse of its culture

Hanoi’s Old Quarter (aka Hoan Kiem District) is a must visit and the best way to explore it is on foot. With a 1,000-year-old history, a mishmash of temples, pagodas, cathedrals, art galleries and colonial architecture, every street and turn offer something different.

Step back in time to one of the oldest houses in Hanoi built in the 1890s – the Ancient House on 87 Ma May Street. Recognised as a national monument, Ancient House is the place to get an understanding of the ancient way of life through its traditional Vietnamese architecture, ceramic kitchenware and artefacts.

Shop for T-shirts, bags and souvenirs at Dong Xuan Market, or order a local Vietnamese coffee from a roadside stall and watch the world go by. In the evening, take a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake and mingle with the locals as they practice tai chi – a form of martial arts.

Cross the wooden bridge to visit the Ngoc Son Temple which sits in the middle of the lake on a small island. Just beside the lake, be entertained by local youths dancing on the street to the latest K-pop beats.

In the vicinity of the Hoan Kiem Lake, peek into the lives of the Vietnamese through a water puppet theatre show, which features scenes of daily living, entertainment or Vietnamese legends. Tickets can be purchased on site, preferably a day in advance to secure seats. For more information, check out the Thang Long Water Puppet website.

Hanoi has a host of dining options to offer, and here’s a list to tickle your taste buds:

• Vietnamese restaurants – Nhà Hàng Ngon for Vietnamese pancakes, Nhà hàng Tầm Vị, Chả Cá Thăng Long for fish noodles

• Banh Mi – Banh Mi Lan Ong, Bánh Mì 25

• Phở – Quán Bún Thang Bà Đức, Bún riêu cua Hàng Bạc, Nhà Hàng Miến Lươn ĐÔNG THỊNH, Phở Thìn

• Cafes – Aroi Dessert Café, Coffee Cây, Maison Marou Hanoi, Đinh Café, Cafe Giảng

• French cuisine – La Terrasse du Metropole (at Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel), Green Tangerine, Duong Restaurant Ma May (for French-Vietnamese fusion cuisine and cooking classes)

Pro Tip: When crossing busy roads with motorcycle traffic, keep walking at a steady pace and do not stop. Motorcyclists know how to skilfully navigate around pedestrians, and stopping abruptly will send a confusing signal. Cross the streets with locals if you need the added courage.

Enjoy the tranquility of Halong Bay

Escape from the hustle and bustle of Hanoi to the serene waters of Halong Bay. With its towering limestone structures and unique seascape, this natural wonder is sure to charm. Many famous movies have been filmed here. They include Tomorrow Never Dies (1997), Pan (2015), and Kong: Skull Island (2017).

From Hanoi, it is a two- to three-hour journey by bus or private car to the UNESCO World Heritage Site. An overnight stay on a traditional junk boat in Halong Bay is a great way to unwind and get your digital detox amid the peace and calm of the bay. If you don’t have time for an overnight stay, a day cruise along the bay is a convenient option to take in the sights.

Activities are aplenty in Halong Bay. Go island-hopping (recommended spots are Cat Ba Island and National Park, Titop Island and Tuan Chau Island), explore caves, visit pearl farms and check out floating villages. Those up for some water activities can kayak, snorkel or dive. The best way to experience these activities would be to sign up with a tour operator who will take care of everything from transportation and accommodation to food.

Pro Tip: Climb to the top of Ti Top Island to get a panoramic view of the bay, and catch the sunset from there. If you’re an early bird, rise early to catch the glorious sunrise hitting the waters of Halong Bay.

Scale the mountains of Sapa

From Halong Bay, head back to Hanoi and continue the journey onward to Sapa – either by a train, bus or private car. Located 300km away, a one-night stay is recommended to make the journey worthwhile. Located at 1,500m above sea level, Sapa’s air is fresh and crisp compared to Hanoi’s.

Trek through the rice field terrains with a good pair of hiking shoes, take in the amazing mountain views and visit ethnic minority group villages such as the Hmong and the Red Dzao people along the way.

If you’re in luck, you may even enjoy traditional musical performances at the villages. Walk all the way through to Cat Cat Village and be treated to a majestic and glorious waterfall at the end. Don’t be startled to see pigs, buffalos and goats roaming around as villagers keep them as pets. Keep your eyes peeled for villagers planting rice and you’ll be amazed at the amount of hard work required! To experience the village life through and through, opt for a traditional home stay (find them through Airbnb or standalone offerings online) instead of a hotel stay.

If you have fallen in love with Vietnamese cuisine at this point and would like to hone your cooking skills, take a cooking class in Sapa, which includes going to the local wet market and shopping for ingredients early in the morning – you won’t get produce any fresher than this!

But if you just want to feast, try the unique cuisines of the ethnic minority groups in Sapa. Don’t be offended if you’re offered snake wine. Some restaurants visibly display the clear jar of rice wine, with the entire snake still immersed in it!

Pro Tip: While the actual journey to Sapa by bus or private car may be shorter (six to seven hours), compared to the train (eight to nine hours), discover the romance of train travel, and at the same time, maximise your time spent and save on one night’s accommodation on the overnight sleeper train. From Lao Cai train station, it takes another hour by bus or car to reach Sapa. A sleeper bus is also an interesting option if you get a good spot on the second level of the bus by the window, to watch Vietnam’s endless motorcycle traffic flow while taking in the views in the comfort of your “lie-flat bed”.

Photos courtesy of Changi Airport Group

This article has been edited and adapted from Now Boarding by Changi Airport’s “Exploring North Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay and Sapa) in a week”

The post 3 Best Things To Do In Hanoi, Halong Bay & Sapa In One Week appeared first on Southeast Asia.

But if it’s your first visit, we hope our itinerary, which covers key destinations like capital city Hanoi and populous Ho Chi Minh City, will help you narrow down some great spots to add to your own.

Day 1: Feast, shop and sightsee in Hanoi

At this point, you’ve probably landed at Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport. Founded over 1,000 years ago, Vietnam’s charming capital city is where the old meets new. Its preserved colonial buildings will transport you back in time while its watering holes and rooftop bars boast of its vibrant nightlife scene.

Start off by fuelling up at the Old Quarter, one of Hanoi’s famous lively streets located in the Hoan Kiem district. This is right in the heart of Hanoi – a tourist hotspot filled with rows of street shops selling souvenirs as well as Vietnamese cuisine.

When hunger strikes, go for some beloved street specialities such as pho or banh mi. For the latter, head for Pate Banh Mi, an open-air roadside stall located right on the corner of 11th Street. For just 20,000 VND (~ S$1.20), you’ll get a delicious toasted baguette stuffed full of fatty BBQ pork and fresh vegetables topped with spicy chilli sauce. Grab a plastic stool and order an iced cold beer for only 10,000 VND (S$0.60) to wash it all down.

For some light shopping after your meal, check out Dong Xuan Market, Hanoi’s largest indoor market which offers fresh produce as well as wholesale fashion and accessories on the upper levels.

Round off your day with a quiet walk at Hoan Kiem Lake. A well-loved area, by both the old and young, this is where you’ll find locals exercising and getting some fresh air. Best of all, it’s a picturesque destination with pagoda-like stone gateways that make scenic backdrops for your photos.

With most tourist attractions of Hanoi centred around the Old Quarter, some recommended accommodations nearby include Hanoi La Siesta Hotel Trendy, Tirant Hotel and Luna Heaven Room. To get around, taxis may be your cheapest and best bet. Alternatively, rent a motorbike for about S$10 a day if you have a licence.

Day 2: Get acquainted with Vietnam’s culture and history

Start your day with a hearty Vietnamese breakfast along the rows of stalls at the Old Quarter. Check out Pho Bat Dan, a stall that has been around since the 1960s. It is known for its aromatic Beef Pho (50,000-70,000 VND, ~S$3 to S$4.20), made with rich bone marrow. Its broth is famously sweet, all thanks to beef bones that have been carefully stewed for hours. Expect long queues, though the wait will most definitely be worth it!

After breakfast, head to Ho Chi Minh Museum. Vietnam’s most famous museum, it houses collections of national treasures and artefacts which provide a better understanding of what helped shape Vietnam into the country it is today.

Just a short car ride away is Hoa Lo Prison Museum. Considering that this place was used by French colonists to hold up to 2,000 political prisoners during the Vietnam War, you’ll get fascinating insights into the country’s history. Having said that, such a historical trip can be rather heavy as it points to the harsh realities of war. Be prepared to pass through old prison cells and see gruesome relics like the French guillotine, for instance, which was once used to execute Vietnamese revolutionaries.

If you’re in town between Friday and Sunday, be sure to check out the Hanoi Weekend Night Market to enjoy some roadside street food and night shopping.

Day 3: Take a day trip to Halong Bay

Take a 4-hour bus ride to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s famous for its impressive limestone karsts, and some 2,000 islands and islets.

If adventure is your middle name, this is the place to go kayaking and cave-hopping. If not, explore the area on a day cruise from Halong City.

A typical day tour takes you through amazing attractions like the Ba Hang Fishing Village, a rustic floating village that is home to approximately 50 families who live in 5m² to 10m² floating houses and rely on fishing for their daily income.

You’ll also pass by Sung Sot Cave, a stunning cave that houses over 100,000-year-old stalagmites and stalactites (icicle and rock-shaped deposits). Pass through narrow passageways and be greeted with the work of mother nature, particularly high ceilings of interesting rock formations that resemble animals.

Day 4: Venture out to Da Nang Beach for more stunning nature

To make the best out of your travels to Vietnam, consider heading to Da Nang Beach. In the interest of time though, it is best to fly there (the flight is about 80 minutes compared to 16 hours by car and 18 hours by train). A domestic flight via VietJet Air or Vietnam Airlines typically costs between S$140 to S$250.

This coastal city is most known for its sandy beaches, Buddhist sanctuaries and pagoda temples, as well as the famed Marble Mountains. Set aside two hours to explore the mountains and be sure to wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking uphill for a fair bit. The entrance fee to these mountains is currently priced at 40,000 VND (~S$2.40).

For a more laidback activity, visit My Khe Beach, one of Da Nang’s most popular beaches, to enjoy a chill afternoon swim, beach-bumming or even some surfboarding (200,000 VND, ~S$12 rental per hour).

Day 5-6: Visit Ho Chi Minh City for more food and explorations

Commonly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is another popular city in Vietnam that should not be missed. The city is an hour plus flight from Da Nang. (Air tickets range between S$100 to S$130). After all that adventure and walking earlier on, you might want to take it easy for the next two days.

Shopaholics will want to wander through Ben Thanh Market which sells local produce and food as well as an array of souvenirs, T-shirts with witty slogans and traditional handicrafts.

There’s also 42 Nguyen Street, a quaint building and hidden gem that has been turned into a shopping centre filled with more fashion goods and accessories. You might also want to drop by Giac Lam Pagoda, the oldest temple in Ho Chi Minh City dating back to 1744. At the entrance of this historic site sits a sacred bodhi tree that was a present from a visiting monk from Sri Lanka in 1953.

For a more localised and unique experience, opt for a day tour (about nine hours long) to the Mekong Delta where you get to explore the distinctive delta landscape on a motorised river boat. A typical tour includes full transport – from hotel pick-up to the actual boat ride and drop-off. You’ll cruise along stunning mazes of rivers, passing by temples, rice fields as well as iconic fishing villages with stilt houses. You’ll also get to stop by areas like Tortoise Islet for a traditional Vietnamese lunch and An Khanh, a beautiful province, where you’ll taste delicious seasonal fruits paired with honey tea.

Enjoy your night to the fullest at nightspots like Blanchy’s Lounge and Apocalypse Now, and revel in the sizzling music and fun ambience.

Clearly, there won’t be a dull moment in the colourful city of Ho Chi Minh!

Things to note when travelling in Vietnam

• Download the PC-Covid mobile app for contact tracing purposes during your stay in the country
• Face masks are required in crowded public places like airport terminals, supermarkets, bus stations and public transport vehicles
• Due to the nature of the pandemic, do visit Vietnam’s official website for the latest information on Covid-19 restrictions affecting travellers

This article has been adapted from Now Boarding by Changi Airport’s “6D5N: Things to do when visiting Vietnam for the first time”

The post 5 Things To Do When Visiting Vietnam For The First Time appeared first on Southeast Asia.

Da Lat

• Bao Dai Summer Palace
• Crazy House (Hang Nga Villa)
• Da Lat Flower Gardens
• Da Lat Market
• Da Lat Railway Station

• Datanla Waterfalls
• Domaine de Marie Church
• Elephant Falls
• French Quarter
• Lake of Sighs (Ho Than Tho)
• Lam Ty Ni Pagoda (Mad Monk Temple)
• Linh Phuoc Pagoda
• Linh Son Pagoda
• Pongour Falls
• Prenn Falls
• Thien Vuong Pagoda
• Truc Lam Pagoda
• Tuyen Lam Lake
• Valley of Love
• Van Hanh Zen Pagoda (Golden Buddha Pagoda)
• Xuan Huong Lake

Da Nang

• Ba Na Hills
• Da Nang Cathedral
• Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture
• Dragon Bridge
• Golden Bridge (Cau Vang)

• Hai Van Pass
• Han River Bridge
• Linh Ung Pagoda
• Marble Mountains
• My Khe Beach
• Non Nuoc Beach
• Phap Lam Pagoda
• Son Tra Peninsula

Hai Phong

• Bao Dai Villa
• Colonial Quarter
• Do Son Beach
• Du Hang Pagoda
• Elephant Mountain
• Hai Phong Museum
• Hai Phong Post Office
• Hang Kenh Communal House (Nhan Tho Communal House)
• Municipal Theatre Square & Municipal Theatre
• Museum of Military Region III
• Navy Museum
• Nghe Temple
• Tam Bac Lake
• Trang Kenh

Halong Bay

• Bai Tu Long Bay
• Ban Chan Beach
• Bo Nau Cave (Pelican Cave)
• Cat Ba Island
• Co To Island
• Dau Be Island
• Dau Go Cave
• Hanh Cave
• Floating & Fishing Villages (Cua Van, Vung Vieng, Cong Dam, Ba Hang)
• Lan Ha Bay
• Luon Cave
• Sung Sot Cave (Amazing Cave)
• Tam Cung Cave
• Thien Cung Cave (Heaven/Paradise Cave)
• Titop Island
• Trinh Nu Cave (Virgin Cave)
• Tuan Chau Island

Hanoi

• Ba Vi National Park
• Cua Bac Church
• Dong Xuan Market
• Hanoi Flag Tower

• Hanoi Old Quarter
• Hanoi Opera House

• Hoa Lo Prison
• Hoan Kiem Lake
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
• Ho Chi Minh Museum
• Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
• Lotte Center Hanoi Observation Deck
• Ngoc Son Temple
• One Pillar Pagoda
• Perfume Pagoda
• Quan Su Temple
• Quan Thanh Temple
• St. Joseph’s Cathedral (Nha Tho)

• Temple of Literature
• Thap Rua Tower (Turtle Tower)
• Tran Quoc Pagoda
• Truc Bach Lake
• Vietnamese Women’s Museum
• Vietnam Fine Arts Museum
• Vietnam Military History Museum
• Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
• West Lake (Ho Tay Lake)

Ho Chi Minh City

• Ba Thien Hau Temple
• Ben Thanh Market

• Binh Tay Market
• Buu Long Temple
• Cao Dai Temple
• Cu Chi Tunnels

• Dan Sinh Market (War Surplus Market)
• Giac Lam Pagoda
• Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Museum
• Jade Emperor Pagoda
• Mariamman Hindu Temple
• Museum of Vietnamese History
• Notre Dame Cathedral
• Phuoc An Hoi Quan Pagoda
• Reunification Palace
• Saigon Central Post Office
• Saigon Opera House
• Saigon Skydeck, Bitexco Financial Tower
• Thien Hau Temple
• Vinh Nghiem Pagoda
• War Remnants Museum

Hoi An

• An Bang Beach
• Cam An Beach
• Central Market
• Cham Islands
• Chuc Thanh Pagoda
• Cua Dai Beach
• Fujian (Phuc Kien) Assembly Hall
• Hoi An Night Market
• Hoi An Impression Theme Park
• Hoi An Ancient Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

• Japanese Covered Bridge (Chua Cau Nhat Ban or Pagoda Bridge)
• Kim Bong Carpentry Village
• Museum of Trade Ceramics
• My Son Sanctuary (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• Old House of Phun Hung
• Old House of Tan Ky
• Quan Cong Temple
• Sa Huynh Culture Museum
• Van Duc Pagoda

Hue

• Bach Ma National Park
• Dong Ba Market
• Elephant Springs
• Forbidden Purple City
• Gia Long Tomb
• Hon Chen Temple
• Ho Quyen, Tiger Fighting Arena
• Hue Imperial City
• Huyen Tran Princess Temple
• Khai Dinh Tomb
• Minh Mang Tomb
• Mount Ngu Binh
• Perfume River
• Tam Giang Lagoon
• Thai Hoa Palace
• Thanh Toan Bridge
• Thien Mu Pagoda
• To Mieu Temple
• Truong Tien Bridge
• Tu Duc Tomb
• Tu Hieu Pagoda

Lang Son

• Mau Son Mountain

Mui Ne & Phan Thiet

• Fairy Stream
• Linh Son Truong Tho Pagoda
• Mui Ne Beach
• Mui Ne Fishing Village
• Phan Thiet Central Market
• Phan Thiet Harbour|
• Phan Thiet Water Tower
• Po Shanu Cham Towers
• Red Sand Dunes
• Ta Cu Mountain
• Takou Mountain
• The Prince’s Castle
• Van Thuy Tu Temple
• White Sand Dunes

Nha Trang

• Alexandre Yersin Museum
• Ba Ho Waterfalls
• Bai Dai Beach
• Dam Market
• Hon Ba Mountain
• Hon Khoi Salt Fields
• Impressions Museum
• Long Son Pagoda
• National Oceanographic Museum
• Nha Trang Cathedral
• Po Nagar Cham Towers
• Suoi Do Pagoda
• Thap Ba Hot Springs Centre
• Tran Phu Beach

Phuc Quoc Island

• Cao Dai Temple
• Coi Nguon Museum
• Dinh Cau Night Market
• Dinh Cau Rock (Dinh Cau Temple)
• Duong Dong Market
• Ham Ninh Fishing Village
• Ho Quoc Pagoda
• Long Beach
• Ong Lang Beach
• Phu Quoc National Park
• Phu Quoc Prison
• Sao Beach
• Su Muon Pagoda
• Sung Hung Pagoda
• Suoi Tranh Waterfall

Vung Tau Island

• Bach Dinh (Villa Blanche)
• Binh Chau Hot Springs
• Con Dao Museum
• Epigraphic of Linh Son (Linh Son Co Tu Pagoda)
• Ho Tram Beach
• Jesus Christ Statue
• Long Son Big House (Ong Tran Temple)
• Niet Ban Tinh Xa Pagoda
• Phu Hai & Phu Son Prisons
• Quan The Am Bo Tat Pagoda (Pagoda of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva)
• Robert Taylor Museum of Worldwide Arms (Museum of Antique Weapons)
• Thang Tam Monument
• Thich Ca Phat Dai Pagoda
• Vo Thi Sau Tomb
• Vung Tau Lighthouse

The post Must-Visit Places appeared first on Southeast Asia.

Crawl through the Cu Chi tunnels

Experience thrills and spills at theme parks and waterparks

• Dam Sen Water Park in Ho Chi Minh City
• Sun World Danang Wonders amusement park in Da Nang
• Vinpearl Land amusement parks in Nha Trang and Phu Quoc Island

Fly homemade kites

• Phu Quoc Island

Watch Hoi An Memories at Hoi An Impression Theme Park to discover how Hoi An has grown in the past 400 years

Make handicrafts at traditional handicraft villages

• Bat Trang ceramic village in Hanoi
• Van Phuc silk village in Hanoi
• Tha Ho pottery village in Bac Giang
• Phu Lang Pottery Village in Que Vo district
• Dong Ho painting village in Bac Ninh
• Tay Ho conical hat village in Hue

Learn how to make silk lanterns in Hoi An

Learn how to cook traditional Vietnamese dishes in a cooking class

Take a cyclo-rickshaw ride

• Through the backstreets of Hanoi
• Through the ancient town of Hoi An

Enjoy a homestay in a traditional village in Pu Luong

Take a boat ride through a cave system in Ninh Binh

Take a river cruise down the Mekong River

Cycle through the backstreets of Hanoi

Go kayaking

• Cai River
• Can Tho River
• Halong Bay
• Lak Lake
• Lan Ha Bay
• Phong Nha Cave

Go on an elephant ride

• Buon Ma Thuot
• Hue

Explore Mekong Delta on bicycles

Take the Sun World Fansipan Legend Cable Car in Sapa

• See the terraced rice fields of Muong Hoa Valley
• Enjoy scenic views of Hoang Lien National Park and Mount Fansipan

Go trekking in Sapa

Go on a farming and fishing eco tour on the Cua Dai River

Shop for toys

• Hanoi – Luong Van Can Street
• Ho Chi Minh City – Le Van Tam Park

Catch a water puppet show

• Hanoi – Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, Vietnam Puppet Theatre
• Ho Chi Minh City – Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre, Thao Dien Village, Vietnam History Museum
• Hoi An – Hoi An Traditional Art Performance Theatre
• Hue – Hue Water Puppet Theatre
• Quang Ninh – Royal International Park, Yen Duc Village 

The post Fun Family-Friendly Activities appeared first on Southeast Asia.

Bach Ma National Park

Spot: Monkeys, birds, reptiles, frogs, tiger, leopard

Ba Na-Nui Chua Nature Reserve

Spot: Rare birds, mammals, reptiles

Ba Be National Park

Spot: Pangolin, Vietnamese Salamander and Tonkin snub-nosed langur monkeys

Can Gio Mangrove Reserve

Spot: Spot-billed pelicans, painted storks

Cat Ba National Park

Spot: Birds such as white swallow, redshank, greenshank and kingfisher, monkeys like the golden-headed langur, chamois, cao cat, gecko, varan

Con Dao Islands

Spot: Sea/green turtles, dolphins, dugong

Cuc Phuong National Park

Spot: Black giant squirrel, Indian flying squirrel, samba deer, loris

Ha Giang Province

Spot: Birds, mammals

Hoang Lien National Park

Spot: Silver cheek langurs, black gibbons, red-crested pheasants, large-spot eagles, spike frogs

Hon Cau Island

Spot: Turtles, butterfly lizards, snakes

Nam Cat Tien National Park

Spot: Gibbon sanctuary, one-horned Java rhino, clouded leopard, white-winged ducks

Ngoc Linh Nature Reserve

Spot: Rare birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Spot: Tiger, gaur, birds, reptiles, amphibians, butterflies

Pu Mat National Park

Spot: Indochinese tiger red-shanked duoc

Thung Nham Bird Garden

Spot: Birds

Tonle Sap Lake

Spot: Birds

Tra Su Cajuput Forest

Spot: Birds, bats, reptiles

Van Long Nature Reserve

Spot: Delacour’s langur, birds

Vat Sam Eco Park

Spot: Crocodiles, monkeys, gibbons, birds

Vu Quang National Park

Spot: Birds, Ha Tinh langur, red-shanked duoc, yellow-cheeked gibbon, starfish saola, muntjac

Yok Don National Park

Spot: Elephants

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