For the outdoor enthusiast as well as the city lover, Vietnam can’t be beat for a travel destination. The 3444 kilometers of coast offer a picturesque treat for a vacationer looking for something a little bit different on their next vacation. The area has had more than its share of war and strife. That is why during this time of peace Vietnam is a must see destination. Make sure you check out this wonderfully historic country.

For forty five years of the twentieth century Vietnam has been embroiled in war. French and Spanish forces decimated the country and in 1867 Vietnam became a colony of France. In 1945, Vietnam declared its independence and became entangled in yet another attack by the French. The realization of the independence of Vietnam was not fully realized until 1989.

The Vietnamese are a fiercly proud people. They welcome foreign travelers to their country and show their history throughout their culture. The economy of Vietnam has headed down the path of maturity and can be glimpsed in the culture that has sprung up. When you visit Vietnam you will be treated to lush botanical gardens, monasteries and all the history of the proud Vietnamese. Check out the Binh Soup Shop, the headquarters of the Viet Cong during the Vietnam war. Hanoi is a city that is a testament to the culture of the Vietnamese. Be sure to stop by the One Pillar Pagoda for some eleventh century architecture that is preserved today.

The real beauty of Vietnam can be seen in the rainforests of the Ba Be National Park. You will see the traditional stilt houses of the Tay people that live in the area. You can take an elephant ride and view all the magnificent species of animals that live in the region. Halong Bay located in the Gulf of Tonkin boasts over 3000 islands with beautiful beaches and cliffs for the astounded traveler. If you don’t mind small spaces you can check out Phong Nha Cave. It is thousands of meters beneath the ground and is a wonderful place to explore.

Vietnam is a wonderful place to visit on your next vacation. Check with your travel agent for some places you can make sure you check out on your trip. The country is a jewel at any time of year because of its geographic location. Be sure that you include Vietnam on your list of must see places.