Travelling to an international destination poses challenges, with considerations like budget and food being significant factors. Travel couple Muskaan and Aashish faced similar concerns when planning their first trip abroad. In an interview with OT, the duo shared how they discovered a renewed passion for travel in Vietnam. With a budget of INR 80,000, thewanderfullylost duo explored the streets of this Southeast Asian country and recommended seven spots for couples interested in romantic dates, hiking, and beachside experiences.
Stroll through the narrow streets of Old Quarter, one of Hanoi's oldest neighbourhoods, taste local street food and meander around Hoan Kiem Lake. This area features Vietnamese architecture, open spaces, and historic shops and is easily traversed on foot.
You'll see vendors selling flowers and fruit on bicycles, friends playing checkers, and cooks busy with Pho and Bun Cha (broth). The more you explore, the more you'll discover hidden alleyways on the 36 streets, peaceful pagodas, and quaint coffee shops.
Take a day trip to Ban Gioc Waterfalls, one of Vietnam's largest. Similar to well-known waterfalls like Niagara and Iguazu, Ban Gioc Waterfall straddles the border between Vietnam and China. Fed by the Quay Son River, the waterfall features multiple terraces, adding to its visual impact. Open to visitors throughout the year, it remains a worthwhile destination regardless of the season. Although it's generally recommended, the best time to visit is from September to October.
Embark on a two-day cruise with your partner in Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO world heritage site. The bay consists of about 1,600 islands and islets in the Gulf of Tonkin. These formations feature limestone pillars rising from the sea, creating a beautiful landscape with arches and caves. Due to their precipitous state, most islands remain uninhabited. Endemic species such as the Cat Ba Langur have found their home here.
Travel to Sapa to see Muong Hoa Valley, visit the ethnic minority market and climb Mt. Fansipan.
The top three mountains to visit in Sapa are Fansipan, the highest mountain in the Hoang Lien Son Mountain Range, about 9 kilometres southwest of Sapa Town in Lao Cai Province, followed by Ngu Chi Son Mountain and Ham Rong Mountain. You can also explore Sapa town, located at the head of a deep valley with rice terraces that have been farmed for centuries.
Enjoy a boat tour in Trang An, explore Mua Caves, and visit Bich Dong Pagoda. Ninh Binh attracts visitors with its natural beauty and rich history. Famous for its limestone formations and ancient temples, it's often referred to as "Halong Bay on land." The province offers a tranquil escape, showcasing the unique charm of rural Vietnam with boat rides along rivers.
Enjoy a boat tour in Trang An, explore Mua Caves, and visit Bich Dong Pagoda. Ninh Binh attracts visitors with its natural beauty and rich history. Famous for its limestone formations and ancient temples, it's often called "Halong Bay on land." The province offers a tranquil escape, showcasing the charm of rural Vietnam with boat rides along rivers.
Visit Ho Chi Minh City, the financial centre of Vietnam, and explore attractions like the Mekong Delta, War Remnants Museum, and District 1. Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh serves as the economic hub of Vietnam's southern region. As a lively metropolis, HCMC's cityscape blends old and new Vietnam, showcasing the city's history and future.