Canadian Magazine: Vietnam is an ideal destination for long-term travel

Canadian Magazine: Vietnam is an ideal destination for long-term travel

The travel magazine Drift Travel (Canada) recently shared 5 “worthwhile” destinations for long trips around the world, in which Vietnam is considered an ideal exploration journey due to the harmonious combination of diverse landscapes, cultural depth, and seamless connectivity from North to South.

Train passing through Hai Van Pass

According to Drift, unlike short trips often dominated by a dense list of “check-in” spots, long vacations will offer travelers a new perspective with different experiences, allowing them time to enjoy nature, immerse themselves in the local rhythm, and feel the connection between regions. And Vietnam is one of such destinations.

With its terrain stretching along the North-South axis, Vietnam offers a rare seamless journey in Asia. Instead of continuous separate flights, travelers can choose to travel across the country via the trans-Vietnam railway, starting from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City and heading to the other end, making the journey more natural, convenient, and easier to explore.

In Hanoi, the Old Quarter offers the deepest experience when visitors take the time to explore each trade street around Hoan Kiem Lake, where traditional beauty is still clearly evident in every corner. The space here is not only composed of ancient streets but is a “living museum” of Hanoi’s life rhythm: from the early morning street cries, family-run eateries tucked away in small alleys, to the coffee culture that has become an indispensable part of the Capital’s identity.

Old man sitting at Hoan Kiem Lake

The Huc (sunshine welcome) bridge in Hoan Kiem Lake

The journey continues to Hue – the quiet ancient capital, where historical and cultural values are preserved through each ancient architectural work. This is a stop that requires more time, not only to visit but also to feel the depth of heritage and the distinctive life rhythm of Central Vietnam. Strolling along the Huong (Perfume) River in the afternoon, enjoying refined cuisine, or listening to Hue folk songs on the river will help visitors better understand the former capital.

Hue Citadel

In the South, Ho Chi Minh City presents a completely different appearance – modern, dynamic, and full of energy. The bustling streets, towering buildings, and lively nightlife reflect a constantly developing urban area. Yet, behind that are layers of intertwined historical and cultural memories, from colonial-era architectural works to guild halls, temples, shrines, or traditional markets. It is precisely the intersection between the past and the present that has created a multi-dimensional city where each experience carries its own unique color.

In the South, Ho Chi Minh City presents a completely different appearance – modern, dynamic, and full of energy. The bustling streets, towering buildings, and lively nightlife reflect a constantly developing urban area. Yet, behind that are layers of intertwined historical and cultural memories, from colonial-era architectural works to guild halls, temples, shrines, or traditional markets. It is precisely the intersection between the past and the present that has created a multi-dimensional city where each experience carries its own unique color.

Ho Chi Minh city at night

Meanwhile, journeys connecting the northern mountainous regions like Sa Pa (Lao Cai) to the natural wonder of Ha Long Bay (Quảng Ninh) show the amazing diversity of Vietnam’s landscapes with the spectacular scenery of majestic mountains, vast oceans, and even towering limestone karsts rising from the sea…

Sapa town in mist

Lan Ha bay

Island in Quang Ninh

The special feature of tourism in Vietnam does not lie in individual destinations, but in the close connection that creates a seamless flow of experiences, a vivid overall picture. The smooth transition from the northern mountains to the coastal areas, plains, and the riverine areas of the Mekong Delta is evidence of a diverse and rich tourism ecosystem. Therefore, Vietnam is not only a destination to “go and learn,” but also a place to slow down, to explore, and to understand. A long journey along the S-shaped country will reveal more than what a short trip can offer – it is a deep, connected, and complete experience.

(Collected photos and news)