Dana Filek-Gibson - Moon Vietnam

view from Sam Mountains Cave Pagoda.

Vietnam grabs hold of you from the moment you step off the plane. Your senses are assaulted by the blare of bus horns and revving motorbikes, the scent of grilled meat wafting from street carts, and the influx of people, always moving, always with purpose. This is a country on the rise.

More than 40 years after a devastating war, Vietnam is in the midst of a comeback, rising in a cacophonous clash of old and new, traditional and modern. Youre just as likely to see a luxury car roll past a rusty one-speed bike as you are to find the upper echelon of society eating from plastic tables on the street. Amid the bustling street stalls and frenzied markets, youll find a thriving country.

Beyond its cities, another Vietnam awaits. Venture to the countryside or along the coast and find tranquil beaches and sleepy farming towns, never-ending rice paddies, and the eerie labyrinth of limestone islands.

Vietnam grasps your full attention. With open arms, an open mind, and a sense of adventure, youll find yourself embracing it right back.

masks at Hanois Temple of Literature

terraced rice paddies of Vietnams northwest

Cruising Ha Long Bay: Take an overnight cruise (

Saigons Nightlife: The sun may go down, but Saigon stays up until the wee hours. Whether you want to hang out at bars, hit the clubs, or catch a live show, the southern hub has something for everyone ().

Visiting Vietnams Ethnic Minority Villages: Vietnam is home to 54 different ethnic groups, each with its own traditions, language, and culture. Learn more about these communities by heading inland to destinations like Mai Chau ().

Vietnamese Cuisine: Explore Vietnams culinary offerings, from ubiquitous, renowned standards like pho and banh mi to regional specialties ().

Motorbiking: Whether youre zipping around town on the back of a motorbike or heading out on a road trip like the Northwest Loop ().

Hoi An: A microcosm of history, culture, and cuisine, this charming former port town seduces scores of travelers every year with its traditional architecture, unique local dishes, and nearby beach, not to mention the best shopping in the country (

Hanois Fresh Beer Scene: On any given night, you can pull up a plastic chair streetside and enjoy the short shelf life of bia hoibeer made without preservatives ().

Beaches: With over 2,000 miles of coastline, Vietnam has some glorious beach getaways, from the island shores of Con Dao and Phu Quoc to mainland spots like popular Nha Trang and Mui Ne and up-and-coming Quy Nhon ().

Caving in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park: If you can only visit one of Vietnams national parks, make it this one (). Its subterranean wonders are unique.

Touring the Mekong Delta: Tap into southwestern Vietnams easygoing riverine culture by exploring floating markets, flooded forests, and fruit orchards ().

Imperial History in Hue: The legacy of Vietnams last imperial dynasty lives on in its former capital, where you can wander the Imperial City ().

Excursion to Angkor Wat: Hop over the border to explore one of the most famous religious sites in the world and its magnificent temples ().