Door: Ties en Fay
vietnam
Places to be
Hanoi is a city of contrasts — lively streets filled with scooters and quiet lakes surrounded by ancient temples. The Old Quarter feels timeless, with narrow lanes, colourful shopfronts and the scent of street food drifting through the air. French‑colonial buildings stand beside traditional markets, creating a blend of cultures and eras. Hanoi feels warm, soulful and full of character, a place where history and everyday life flow together beautifully.
Ha Long Bay is one of Vietnam’s most magical landscapes — a calm emerald sea dotted with thousands of limestone islands rising dramatically from the water. Misty mornings make the bay feel dreamlike, while sunsets paint the cliffs in soft gold. Cruising through the quiet coves and hidden lagoons feels peaceful and otherworldly. Ha Long Bay is serene, majestic and unforgettable, a place where nature takes centre stage.
Ho Chi Minh City is vibrant, energetic and full of life. Modern skyscrapers rise above historic buildings, and the streets buzz with cafés, markets and motorbikes. The city has a warm, youthful spirit — lively at night, creative during the day and always moving. From rooftop views to quiet temples hidden between busy streets, Ho Chi Minh City feels dynamic, colourful and endlessly exciting.
Sapa is a peaceful mountain town surrounded by terraced rice fields, misty valleys and towering peaks. The air is cool and fresh, and the landscapes shift beautifully with the light. Local villages dot the hillsides, offering a glimpse into traditional life. Trekking paths wind through green fields and quiet forests, making Sapa feel calm, natural and deeply connected to the land.
Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s most charming towns — a place of lantern‑lit evenings, golden buildings and riverside calm. The ancient streets are lined with tailor shops, cafés and colourful houses that glow warmly at sunset. At night, lanterns reflect on the water, creating a soft, magical atmosphere. Hoi An feels gentle, romantic and timeless, a town where every corner invites you to slow down.
Phu Quoc is Vietnam’s tropical island escape — warm, sunny and surrounded by clear turquoise water. Soft beaches, palm trees and quiet bays create a relaxed, peaceful atmosphere. Inland, forests and waterfalls offer a touch of adventure, while the island’s sunsets are some of the most beautiful in the country. Phu Quoc feels soothing, bright and perfect for unwinding by the sea.
The right time to go
Autumn in Vietnam feels gentle and golden — a season of soft sunlight, cooler breezes and landscapes that shift into warm, earthy tones. From September to November, the country settles into a calm rhythm, with clearer skies in the north and a peaceful, refreshing atmosphere across many regions.
In Hanoi, autumn is especially magical. The air turns crisp, the lakes shimmer under soft morning light, and the scent of milk‑flower blossoms drifts through the streets. The Old Quarter feels quieter and more romantic, with golden leaves falling along tree‑lined boulevards. Cafés open their windows to the breeze, and the city takes on a nostalgic charm that locals love.
Further north, Sapa becomes a tapestry of colour. The terraced rice fields turn shades of gold and amber as harvest season begins, creating some of the most breathtaking landscapes of the year. Mist rolls gently over the mountains in the early morning, and the cool air makes trekking peaceful and refreshing. Villages feel calm and welcoming, surrounded by fields glowing in autumn light.
Out on the water, Ha Long Bay feels serene and dreamlike. The skies are clearer, the sea is calm, and the limestone cliffs rise quietly from the emerald water. Mornings are misty and soft, while afternoons glow with warm sunlight. Cruising through the bay in autumn feels peaceful and almost otherworldly.
In central Vietnam, Hoi An becomes warm and golden. The ancient town glows softly in the late‑afternoon sun, and lanterns reflect beautifully on the river in the evenings. The weather is pleasant, the streets feel relaxed, and the whole town carries a gentle, romantic atmosphere.
Further south, Ho Chi Minh City remains lively and energetic, but the humidity eases slightly, making the city feel more comfortable. Rooftop views are clearer, markets feel vibrant, and evenings are warm without being overwhelming.
On Phu Quoc, autumn brings calm seas and bright days. The beaches feel peaceful, the water turns crystal clear, and sunsets paint the sky in deep orange and pink. It’s a perfect time for slow days by the ocean, gentle breezes and quiet tropical moments.
Everywhere you go, autumn in Vietnam feels warm, soft and full of quiet beauty. It’s a season of golden landscapes, gentle weather and peaceful days — a time when the country reveals one of its most charming and inviting moods.
Travel tips
Vietnamese is the official language. English is widely spoken in major cities and tourist areas, but less common in rural regions. Simple phrases like xin chào (hello) and cảm ơn (thank you) are appreciated.
Domestic flights connect major destinations like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang and Phu Quoc. Trains offer scenic journeys along the coast, while buses and private drivers are common for regional travel. In cities, taxis and ride‑hailing apps are reliable and easy to use.
Vietnamese culture values politeness, calmness and respect. Dress modestly when visiting temples, remove shoes when entering certain homes or sacred spaces, and avoid touching someone’s head. A gentle tone and patience are appreciated, especially in busy markets.
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND). Cash is widely used, though cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants and shops in larger cities. Vietnam is generally safe and welcoming. Traffic can be busy, so crossing streets requires attention. Stay hydrated in the heat and follow local guidance when exploring remote or mountainous areas.