Elevate Destinations

Experts in socially responsible luxury travel. We design travel experiences that support conservation and local communities without skimping on comfort.

Vietnam: Terraced rice fields cover rolling green hills with scattered trees under a cloudy sky, with mountains rising in the background. A winding road and small houses are visible among the lush landscape.

Vietnam

Adventures in Poetic Travel

Experience Vietnam's culture and natural wonders

Vietnam stretches along the coast of South East Asia and offers plenty of variety through cuisines, landscapes, and dialects! There is an undeniable beauty to be found throughout this country, from the mountains of Sapa, where hikers can appreciate the dramatic terrain, to the calm waters of Halong Bay, where you can gaze up at the glistening stars from the deck of your boat.

Vietnam is a destination for families and travelers to linger in the colors and culture of this friendly place.

With abundant socially responsible volunteering opportunities, take time to contribute to the people and the land. Assist a village school in Sapa or get involved in numerous projects with Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation in Hanoi on a culturally immersive trip while enjoying the spectacular Vietnamese views and flavorsome foods these regions offer.

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Sample Itineraries

Inspiration for your custom adventure

  • Vietnam, Siam Reap, and Laos

    This is a classic itinerary, centered around some of the must-see sites of Southeast Asia, remixed for families who long for something unexpected.

  • Vietnam: South to North

    This journey from southern to northern Vietnam is truly a little taste of everything that makes Vietnam so unique.

Your Questions Answered

What to know about Vietnam

When is the best time to visit Vietnam?

Due to the country's long and narrow shape, the best time to visit Vietnam varies greatly by region. While southern Vietnam can be visited year-round, northern Vietnam is best visited from October to April. Central Vietnam has its rainy season between September and December, so we recommend visiting in the dry season between January and August, when the weather is warm and sunny.

Where are the best places to visit in Vietnam?

There are many diverse and unique places to visit in Vietnam. In the north, Hanoi charms visitors with its historic Old Quarter. Nearby, Sapa offers misty rice terraces, Mai Chau and Pu Luong will draw you in with its lush mountains, and Halong Bay features iconic limestone islands. Central Vietnam has the ancient imperial city of Hue, Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets, and stunning national parks like Phong Nha-Ke Bang. In the south, Ho Chi Minh City draws you in with vibrant street life, colonial architecture, and access to the lush Mekong Delta.

What are the best things to do in Vietnam?

There’s no shortage of incredible things to do in Vietnam. It truly is a country with something for everyone. Adventurers can trek among hill tribes and terraced fields in Sapa or the mountainous areas of Mai Chau, Pu Luong, and Cao Bang, kayak through the emerald waters of Halong or Lan Ha Bay, or cycle the back roads of Hanoi’s outskirts or along the Red River. Families will love exploring caves in national parks and taking waterfall hikes in Bach Ma. Foodies can sample street eats, join a cooking tour, and cruise through the Mekong Delta’s floating markets to try regional specialties. Those seeking culture and history can visit the Cu Chi Tunnels and local villages, and enjoy live music or traditional performances.

What does a typical Vietnam itinerary look like?

Though we can design an itinerary to suit your family’s interests, a typical Vietnam itinerary often includes highlights from north to south. You might start in Hanoi to experience its lively street life and ancient temples, then cruise the magnificent waters of Halong Bay. Moving south, enjoy the colorful town of Hoi An and the imperial wonders of Hue. Finish your journey in Ho Chi Minh City with visits to historical sites and a boat trip into the lush Mekong Delta. Each Elevate Destinations journey can be uniquely tailored to suit your travel style.

What traditional Vietnamese food should I try while traveling?

Vietnamese cuisine is a journey in itself and specialties vary by region. Pho is a customizable, aromatic beef noodle soup that has become a Vietnamese icon. Banh mi is a crispy baguette sandwich made with pork, blending French and Vietnamese styles. Try bun cha, a dish of grilled pork served with noodles, and banh xeo, a crispy pancake. Banh cuon, steamed rice rolls, goi cuon, fresh rice paper rolls, and hearty bowls of com tam, broken rice, are additional can’t-miss meals.

Why should I choose Elevate Destinations as my Vietnam travel guide?

As your Vietnam travel guide, Elevate Destinations will curate an authentic, tailor-made journey connecting you with Vietnam’s history, nature, and local communities. Our expert Travel Advisors will design a seamless journey with support before, during, and after your trip. Our local partners and guides connect you to meaningful cultural exchanges and sustainable travel experiences. We focus on responsible tourism, designing your trip to support local communities and protect the environment.

What should I know about Vietnamese culture?

Vietnamese culture has evolved over the centuries through many influences. These include Chinese, French, and neighboring Southeast Asian cultures. You will experience this in architecture and food. Vietnamese culture is warm and welcoming, but American travelers should be aware of some cultural differences. Tipping is not a strong norm in Vietnam. Tipping is appreciated for excellent service, especially in tourist areas, but is not usually expected and should be done discreetly. Haggling is expected in markets, but do so respectfully. Smile, and remember that negotiation is a friendly interaction. Never touch someone’s head, point your feet at people or sacred objects, or touch sacred altars, as these are considered disrespectful. Public displays of affection are uncommon, so keep romantic gestures to a minimum. When taking photos, always ask permission, especially when photographing people or inside temples.