The ao dai, Vietnam’s traditional dress, is a symbol of elegance and national pride. Worn by women and occasionally men, this long, flowing tunic with high slits is often seen at formal events, weddings, and cultural festivals. The ao dai has evolved over the centuries, influenced by both Vietnamese and French styles. In modern Vietnam, students, office workers, and flight attendants still wear the ao dai as a sign of cultural identity. Tailor shops in Hoi An and Hanoi offer custom-made ao dai, allowing visitors to take home a piece of Vietnamese tradition.



Vietnamese markets are vibrant hubs of daily life, offering everything from fresh produce and handmade crafts to unique souvenirs. The Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling place to shop for textiles, handicrafts, and street food. Hanoi’s Dong Xuan Market is known for its wholesale goods and traditional Vietnamese fabrics. In Sapa, the Bac Ha Market is one of the most colorful, with ethnic minorities selling intricate embroidery, medicinal herbs, and livestock. The floating markets of the Mekong Delta, such as Cai Rang, provide a fascinating insight into the river-based economy. Bargaining is an essential skill when shopping at Vietnamese markets, making every purchase a fun cultural experience.

Water puppetry (múa rối nước) is one of Vietnam’s most fascinating traditional art forms, dating back to the 11th century. Originating in the rice fields of northern Vietnam, this unique performance involves wooden puppets moving over water, controlled by hidden puppeteers behind a bamboo screen. Accompanied by live traditional music, the shows depict scenes from rural life, historical legends, and folk tales. The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi is one of the best places to experience this captivating art form. Performances showcase mythical dragons, farmers harvesting rice, and humorous interactions between villagers. Water puppetry is an enchanting experience that highlights Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage.

Vietnam is a paradise for food lovers, and its street food culture is one of the best in the world. In every city, from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, vendors set up stalls on bustling sidewalks, serving dishes that are packed with flavor and history. Pho, Vietnam’s national dish, is a must-try, with its fragrant broth, rice noodles, and tender beef or chicken. Banh mi, a Vietnamese sandwich influenced by French cuisine, is a delightful combination of crispy baguette, pickled vegetables, and savory fillings. Other street food favorites include bun cha (grilled pork with vermicelli), banh xeo (crispy Vietnamese pancakes), and fresh spring rolls. Each region has its own specialties, such as Hue’s spicy bun bo Hue or Hoi An’s unique cao lầu noodles, making Vietnam a never-ending culinary adventure.

Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, is a city steeped in history, tradition, and breathtaking architecture. The Hue Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO-listed site, offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Vietnam’s Nguyen Dynasty, with its vast courtyards, ornate temples, and royal residences. Beyond the citadel, visitors can explore the Thien Mu Pagoda, a seven-story Buddhist temple overlooking the Perfume River. Hue is also home to several majestic royal tombs, including the Tomb of Khai Dinh and the Tomb of Minh Mang, showcasing intricate architecture and beautiful landscapes. One of Hue’s unique cultural experiences is its royal cuisine, featuring elaborate dishes once served to emperors, such as bánh khoái (crispy pancake) and cơm hến (clam rice). Taking a boat ride along the Perfume River at sunset is the perfect way to end a day of exploration in this historic city.