Alongside a serene slip of river, candles flicker in windows and doorways. Teenagers play chess by moonlight as children float red and gold lanterns across the water. Paper-maché tiger masks and unicorn dancers – these are the sights of Vietnam’s Mid-Autumn festival, or Tết Trung Thu. But moon cakes and happy crepes are just two of the many reasons to honeymoon in this exquisitely lush landscape - from misty villages to bustling urban vibes – Vietnam is truly a treasure worth the time to discover.
the romance
After tradish wedding formal teas and enlightening candle ceremonies, lounge the day away in a colonial-style beach bungalow on the Mui Ne peninsula. Come morning, board a guided boat for a sunrise breakfast cruise to the floating market of Can Tho. Explore glistening limestone isles or catch a few z’s under a thatched parasol. Take in Hanoi for its delightful afternoon Water Puppet show, or dine on banana blossom salad and star anise ice-cream at a breezy nearby eatery.
the scenery
Vietnam is a land of plains and plateaus juxtaposed against cityscapes teeming with bicycles and motor scooters. Imperial cities of alpine peaks and fertile deltas intertwine with boutiquey nosh spots scented with baked spring rolls, mango cakes, and nutmeg cream. Mystical pagodas, aficionado opera houses, Dynastic temples, and Royal Palaces come together to create a pastiche of visionary timelessness, sure to leave every ecstatic couples in pure awe.
the attractions
French remnants, bodacious boulevards, and ancient shrines will leave smooching shutterbugs pleased as punch. In the Old Quarter, make sure to seek out the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum, or the silk village of Yen Thai. One Pillar Pagoda, the Hai Ba Trung Temple, and Hanoi Temple of Literature are perfect examples of history withstanding modernity. At Ha Long Bay, visit one out of the 3000 islands available for sublime beaches and mysterious grottoes. While in Hue, scope out the Perfume River Bridge, Nine Dynastic Urns, and the Heavenly Lady Pagoda, dating back to the reign of the elite Nguyen Dynasty.
the adventure
In Ho Chi Minh, opt for a gander at the Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum or an excursion into the forests of Sapa, where you’ll discover the secluded villages of the local hill tribes. While Mui Ne offers a jeep trek to the top of its infamous yellow sand dunes, while Bao Trang is home to a mini-Sahara desert, where you can rent a pushbike or scooter for a day of extreme sports. Or go easy on yourself and simply slide down on a self-made sledge, finishing off with a soothing dunk in the Vinh Hao Hot Springs.
the secrets
For mere pennies, go boho by investing in an "instant commission" at a quaint storefront art store. Drop off a photo or print, only to leave with your very own commissioned work of art in a matter of hours. Peruse local jewelry shops for strands of fresh-water black pearls or venture into old Saigon for cups of rice wine and roasted rack of lamb. Stalls filled with uber-wallet-friendly souvenirs offer flowery silks, cotton shawls, wooden chopsticks and fabulous hand bags to boot.
before you go
What to Expect
Northern Vietnam:
Winter: The weather is cooler in January and February (14-20°C/58-69°F). There is little rainfall during these months as well.
Spring: March and April are comfortable months (17-27°C/63-81°F). The temperatures are warm and precipitation is low.
Summer: May through September are typically very hot and wet (24-33°C/75-91°F).
Autumn: October though December are pleasant months. Temperatures are still quite warm and rainfall is infrequent (15-29°C/59-84°F).
Southern Vietnam:
Dry Season: There is little precipitation November through April making it an ideal time to travel. Temperatures are also quite warm (25-35°C/77-95°F).
Wet Season: May through October is the rainy season. Downpours occur daily usually in the late afternoon. Temperatures remain similar to those found during the dry season (25-35°C/77-95°F).
Clothing
Loose, light clothing is recommended for travel throughout the year. Be sure to bring raingear as well if traveling during the wet season. Warmer clothing is also necessary if you plan to visit the highlands or travel during the winter.
Currency
The Dong. U.S. Dollars are also generally accepted.
The Lingo
Vietnamese
Documents
A valid passport
Local Delicacies
Pho bo: The national dish is a soup that is comprised of broth, rice noodles and beef.
Banh Chuoi Nuong: A banana-flavoured cake often eaten on holidays.
