Vietnam offers a diverse shopping experience, from bustling markets to high-end boutiques. In Hanoi, the weekend night market in the Old Quarter is a great place to buy traditional handicrafts, silk scarves, and embroidered textiles. Hoi An is famous for its tailor-made clothing, where skilled tailors can create custom suits and dresses in just a few days. If you’re visiting the Mekong Delta, look for coconut candy, a popular sweet treat. In Sapa, handmade textiles woven by ethnic minorities make for unique souvenirs. Lacquerware, ceramic pottery from Bat Trang village, and coffee beans from the Central Highlands are other great purchases to take home.
Hoi An is famous for its monthly Lantern Festival, a magical event where thousands of colorful lanterns illuminate the ancient town. Held on the 14th day of each lunar month, this festival transforms the town into a dreamlike setting as locals and visitors release paper lanterns onto the Thu Bon River. The festival is a celebration of Vietnamese traditions, featuring cultural performances, folk music, and delicious street food. Temples are filled with worshippers, and the streets come alive with the soft glow of lanterns. Whether taking a boat ride along the river or simply strolling through the old town, experiencing the Lantern Festival is an unforgettable highlight of any Vietnam trip.
Vietnam is a fantastic destination for adventure enthusiasts, offering a wide range of thrilling outdoor activities. In Da Lat, canyoning is a popular sport, allowing visitors to rappel down waterfalls, jump into natural pools, and navigate through jungle terrain. For water sports lovers, Mui Ne is a hotspot for kite surfing, thanks to its strong winds and vast sandy beaches. Scuba diving and snorkeling in Nha Trang and Phu Quoc reveal vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. In the mountainous north, rock climbing in Cat Ba Island offers breathtaking views of Halong Bay’s limestone cliffs. Whether you seek adrenaline-pumping adventures or gentle outdoor activities, Vietnam has something for every thrill-seeker.
Vietnam is home to over 50 ethnic minority groups, each with its own distinct traditions and customs. One of the best ways to experience their unique cultures is by visiting local markets in remote regions. The Bac Ha Market in northern Vietnam is one of the most vibrant, where H’mong, Tay, and Dao people gather in colorful traditional clothing to trade goods, livestock, and textiles. The Sunday market in Sapa also offers an authentic cultural experience, showcasing handcrafted goods and local delicacies. In the Central Highlands, Kon Tum’s markets provide insight into the traditions of the Bahnar and Sedang people. These markets are more than just places to shop—they are cultural hubs where communities come together to socialize and celebrate their heritage.
Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s most enchanting destinations, and the monthly Lantern Festival transforms this ancient town into a mesmerizing wonderland. Held on the 14th day of each lunar month, the festival sees the entire Old Town illuminated by thousands of colorful lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere. Locals and visitors alike release paper lanterns onto the Thu Bon River, making wishes for good fortune and happiness. The streets become car-free, allowing for a peaceful stroll through the historic alleys, where traditional music, folk dances, and street performances take place. Vendors sell delicious festival treats such as bánh mì, cao lầu, and sweet sesame snacks. The festival is also an excellent opportunity to visit Hoi An’s historical sites, such as the Japanese Covered Bridge and ancient merchant houses, under the warm glow of lantern light.
