Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Itineraries
You can't expect to fit everything Southeast Asia has to offer into one trip and
we don't suggest you try. On the following pages is a selection of itineraries
that guide you through the different countries, picking out a few of the best
places and major attractions along the way. For those taking a big trip through
the region you could join a few together - across from northern Thailand into
Laos and down the mighty Mekong, for example. There is, of course, much to
discover off the beaten track, so if you have the time it's worth exploring the
smaller towns and villages further afield, finding your own deserted island,
perfect hill town or just a place you love to rest up and chill out.
VIETNAM
Few countries have changed so much over such
a short time as Vietnam. Today, the country is a
veritable phoenix arisen from the ashes. Many
visitors find a vast number of places to visit that
intrigue and excite them in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh
City and the other major centres; but despite
the cities' allure, it's the country's striking
landscape that most impresses.
1
Hanoi
Vietnam's historical, political and
cultural capital, an animated maze of old
merchant streets and grand French-colonial
architecture.
See p.837
2
Ha Long Bay
Sail around this UNESCO World
Heritage Site, where two thousand limestone
karsts jut out of the shimmering turquoise
waters.
See p.851
3
Sa Pa
Bustling market town nestled in the
northern mountains that's a popular base for
tours to ethnic minority villages, and as the
starting point for a scenic train ride back to
Hanoi through the dramatic landscape of
Vietnam's northwestern circuit.
See p.857
4
Hue
Tranquil yet engaging city famous for its
nineteenth-century imperial architecture, and as
a base for tours to the DMZ.
See p.869
5
Hoi An
Charmingly seductive sixteenth-
century merchant town, offering excellent
shopping opportunities and an attractive beach.
See p.877
VIETNAM
0
400
kilometres
ABOVE
FLOATING MARKET, VIETNAM; RICE PADDIES, BALI
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