Ho Chi Minh is regarded as the father of Vietnam who helped lead the country to independence; as a result, his legacy remains in Vietnam’s capital. His mausoleum opened in 1975 and was modeled on Lenin's in Moscow. In the mausoleum, Ho's body is housed in a glass case, and it is sent to Russia for continued preservation on a yearly basis. The mausoleum receives a great number of visitors each day, so make sure to not miss this incredible historical site. As with Vietnamese religious sites, respectful attire and conduct are required.

Hanoi's Presidential Palace is an impressive building that was once home to French Governor Generals. Consequently, Ho Chi Minh felt it was an inappropriate residence while he was President of North Vietnam. Instead, he had a quaint North West-style stilt house – one of his many legacies – built behind the palace. Ho Chi Minh's House in Hanoi is surrounded by a picturesque garden, and the 100-square-foot interior is made up of two rooms with simple furnishings. 'Uncle Ho' spent the majority of his life in this modest dwelling, remaining there until his death in 1969. Make sure to find time to visit Ho Chi Minh's house, his mausoleum, and the Memorial Museum – these are absolute must-sees!

Ngoc Son Temple, also known as the Tortoise Pagoda, is located on Jade Island in Hoan Kiem Lake and connected by a classical Vietnamese-style bridge. While the temple's vividly painted decorations are splendid to behold, the main bridge is also an attractive wooden structure. Two massive columns, inscribed with Chinese characters, guard the pagoda. Ngoc Son Temple is as rich in history as it is in beauty; it commemorates soldier Tran Hung Dao who defeated 300,000 of Kublai Khan's troops, the Confucian master Nguyen Van Sieu, and the famous scholar Van Xuong.

The narrow streets of Hanoi are a fascinating paradise for curious explorers. Undoubtedly, Hanoi's most famous merchants are those who prepare and sell food. In Hanoi's Old Quarter, many locals eat breakfast on their way to work and dinner on their way home. If you happen to see an especially busy stall, you can be certain that the food is fresh and delicious – be sure to give it a try! And, if you truly want to experience an authentic slice of daily life in Hanoi, make sure to check out the traditional shop-houses. These buildings function as both homes and storefronts where shopkeepers sell textiles, shoes, vegetables, snacks, and much more.

For those who are interested in learning about Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is a definite must-see. Here, a staggering number of exhibits record the history and culture of Vietnam, as well as aspects of daily life and religion. Artifacts from weddings and funerals, as well as exquisite clothing and jewelry, may be viewed in detail. Moreover, the museum features impressive outdoor displays, including traditional Vietnamese houses that are sheltered by tranquil gardens. The museum is also family- friendly and features educational programs such as water puppetry performances, demonstrations of traditional crafts, and the children's discovery room.

One of Vietnam's most attractive tourist sites is Hanoi's Temple of Literature, originally Vietnam's first university. Today, this Confucian temple immortalizes Vietnam's most celebrated scholars by carving their names in stone. This exceptionally well-preserved complex is an enchanting example of Vietnamese architecture, and its interior teems with rich hues of gold and crimson. The exterior is equally gorgeous and includes picturesque courtyards, pavilions, and passageways that were once used by royalty.

Amid the hustle and bustle of city life in Hanoi, there is a tranquil oasis that locals and tourists enjoy: Hoan Kiem Lake. Numerous visitors flock here to take a stroll, or to sit and relax as they absorb the placid beauty of their surroundings. Hoan Kiem Lake is also known as 'The Lake of the Returned Sword.' According to legend, an emperor was given a sword to repel Chinese Ming dynasty invaders. Upon successfully completing this quest, the emperor returned the blade to the lake. In addition, Hoan Kiem Lake is home to Ngoc Son Temple (Tortoise Pagoda).

Arts and culture enthusiasts will not want to miss a water puppetry performance! This art form is unique to Vietnam and began in northern rice paddies. Puppeteers would stand in waist-high water as their puppets danced above the shimmering surface of these flooded fields. During Hanoi's water puppet shows, the puppeteers are accompanied by an orchestra and singing, and the performances illustrate stories and myths from Vietnam's past. Some of the most famous shows take place at Thang Long Water Puppet Theater in Hanoi. However, if you wish to see the puppets at close-range in a more intimate atmosphere, private stages are also available. Without question, water puppet shows are extremely popular with locals and tourists alike!

Hanoi's 36 Streets are a must-see for any visitor to Vietnam. Here, you can find a treasure trove of shops that specialize in everything from textiles and clothing, to dazzling jewelry, to delicious Vietnamese food. The number '36' corresponds with the different types of craft and merchant guilds that developed in this district over time. As a result, individual streets are often named for the types of goods that they typically sell.

Hanoi's Presidential Palace is an impressive building that was once home to French Governor Generals. Consequently, Ho Chi Minh felt it was an inappropriate residence while he was President of North Vietnam. Instead, he had a quaint North West-style stilt house -- one of his many legacies -- built behind the palace. Ho Chi Minh's House in Hanoi is surrounded by a picturesque garden, and the 100-square-foot interior is made up of two rooms with simple furnishings. 'Uncle Ho' spent the majority of his life in this modest dwelling, remaining there until his death in 1969. Make sure to find time to visit Ho Chi Minh's house, his mausoleum, and the Memorial Museum -- these are absolute must-sees!

Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Asia's most famous and beautiful bays. Located on Vietnam's northeast coast, it is home to over 3,000 limestone islands and majestic, towering outcrops. Take a junk boat (a traditional, Chinese-style sailing ship) or classy boutique-style boat on a cruise through this exceptionally picturesque bay. Disembark on one of the islands and swim to explore glassy waters in hidden caves, take a bamboo row boat to discover some of the bay's secluded villages, or hike to find breathtaking aerial views of the bay. We recommend an overnight cruise; a morning on the sundeck is a refreshing way to greet the dawn of a new day. A Ha Long Bay cruise is the perfect way to discover the bay in depth and appreciate its natural beauty.

According to Vietnamese legends, each evening in ages past, an old lady wearing red used to appear on a hill. She predicted that in the future, a deity would demand that a Buddhist pagoda be built on this hill. Lord Nguyen Hoang heeded this request and built Thien Mu Pagoda. This seven-tiered octagonal tower remains an iconic symbol of Hue. In addition, this pagoda is one of the monuments associated with the Imperial City (Citadel), which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Trying Hue cuisine is must. Many years ago, Hue was the imperial city of the Nguyen dynasty. Today, it continues to play a critical role in Vietnam's culinary history, as it became home to some of Vietnam's most iconic dishes. Hue's imperial cuisine reflects the lavishness of royal lifestyles and includes feasts made from succulent meats and fish that are garnished with colorful, carved vegetables. In contrast, rustic dishes are made from everyday produce, and the traditional bun bo hue (rice noodles with slices of beef) is a local favorite. In addition, vegetarian specialties, which were once mainly for Buddhist monks, also have a long tradition in Hue.

It is believed that the Perfume River’s name comes from the orchard flowers that fall gently into its flowing water, which carries them (and their sweet, fresh aromas) into Hue. Without question, a Perfume River Cruise is one of the city's most distinctive -- and romantic -- pleasures. This river's unparalleled beauty has served as inspiration for many Vietnamese poems, novels, works of art, and music. A Perfume River Cruise is also a great way to visit the royal tombs, pagodas, and historical sites located along the water. For travelers seeking relaxation, a leisurely boat trip through Hue’s tranquil countryside is a perfect alternative to the hustle and bustle of traffic in town.

Today, Hue's Imperial Citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as a striking example of Vietnamese architecture. Centuries ago, the citadel was the major cultural and religious center of Vietnam's last dynasty -- the Nguyen dynasty. The complex sits on the banks of the Perfume River and includes impressive royal tombs, pagodas, and temples. The Imperial Citadel is a resilient structure that has weathered the ravages of multiple wars, and as a result, some areas still require renovation. Yet overall, the Imperial City retains much of its impressive grandeur from centuries past.

Khai Dinh Tomb is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it was originally conceived by Emperor Khai Dinh of the Nguyen dynasty. The tomb is located at the foot of the picturesque Chau Chu Mountain. While the Khai Dinh Tomb is relatively small compared to other royal tombs, its exceptionally intricate design is a fusion of Vietnamese and European influences. Unsurprisingly, its elaborate structure and surface decorations took around 11 years to complete!

The Fujian Assembly Hall was built at the end of the 17th century by Fujians from China. Originally, the hall's main function was to give Fujian people a place to socialize, but later it became a sacred temple dedicated to Tien Hau -- the Chinese Goddess of the Sea. The hall exhibits classical styles of Chinese architecture including ornate gates, a beautiful courtyard, flowing fountains, and a large prayer room. In addition, there is a temple dedicated to fairies and midwives, as well as The Goddess of Fertility. As a result, childless couples frequently visit the Fujian Assembly Hall to leave offerings and pray that they will be blessed with children.

This beautiful bridge was originally constructed in the 1590s and remains one of Hoi An's most iconic attractions. The bridge's north side is home to a small temple dedicated to the Taoist God of Weather, and its graceful stone arch is topped with an ornate roof that is accented by tones of redcurrant and pale green. The Japanese Covered Bridge is certainly lovely during the day, but it becomes even more impressive at night; the city lights cause the bridge's vibrant colors and ornamentation to appear even more vivid!

Hoi An's Tan Ky Old House is steeped in rich layers of culture and history, and it has been carefully preserved over the course of seven generations. While Tan Ky Old House is one of Hoi An's most aged buildings, it is in excellent condition and divided into multiple functional rooms. Tan Ky also possesses elegant Japanese and Chinese architectural influences. Chinese aesthetics abound in the use of dark wood paneling and carved Chinese characters, and Japanese sensibilities shine in the designs of the ceiling and peaked roof. The house's visual appeal is further amplified by its numerous antiques and dazzling mosaics. Be sure to allow yourself plenty of time to explore this amazing architectural gem.

The Mekong is more than just an unhurried flow of water headed toward the South China Sea. This mighty river meanders through Southern Vietnam, and its waters help make the Mekong Delta the most fertile in the entire nation. One of the best ways to experience this rich region is through a Mekong Delta Cruise. As you gently float on a sampan (a traditional, Chinese-style boat), enjoy gazing at nearby villages, lovely fruit orchards, and farmers and fisherman earning their daily livings. Take an exciting overnight cruise along the Mekong Delta, where you can witness the lively mornings that are characteristic of this region. Each morning, the Mekong Delta wakes up early! Its bustling floating markets open to sell their fresh produce, including succulent tropical fruits.

The Ho Chi Minh Opera House is a French colonial building located near Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office. The Opera House's exterior is painted in pearl-white and pale beige, and these colors look especially luminous under evening lighting. This is one of Old Saigon's most recognizable buildings, and it is home to operas, concert recitals, ballet performances, and traditional dance and drama programs. The Opera House regularly posts information about its upcoming events, so visitors to Ho Chi Minh City will not want to miss one of these spellbinding performances!

The Central Post Office dates back to French colonial times and was designed by Gustave Eiffel with his collaborator Marie-Alfred Foulhoux. It is located next to Notre Dame Cathedral and encourages visitors to imagine what life was like in the late 1800s. It also remains in excellent condition and fully functional. Tourists are welcome to stop by and send postcards that will serve as reminders of their trip to this rich historical site. The Central Post Office still keeps two old glue pots, which were used many years ago for attaching stamps to envelopes. Some of the building's most distinguishing features include its marble floors, two overhead maps, and a colossal portrait of Ho Chi Minh.

Ho Chi Minh City Hall (People’s Committee Building) is a classic example of French colonial architecture, and this iconic landmark is located at the end of Nguyen Hue Street's walking promenade. Its spectacular buildings have intricate wall reliefs, statues of animals and figures, and a large commemorative sculpture of Ho Chi Minh. City Hall is also located near many other French- style buildings, including the Ho Chi Minh City Museum and the Opera House.

Set on lovely grounds with manicured trees, the airy and open Reunification Palace is a fascinating example of 1960s architecture. Many dramatic scenes from Vietnam’s modern history took place at this building; the Reunification Palace is most famous for being the site where the Vietnam War ended. In 1975, a North Vietnamese tank smashed through the building's gates, and a soldier rushed inside to fly a Viet Cong flag from the balcony. Today, it still hosts important occasions including meetings with national and international dignitaries. Unless official events are taking place, this fascinating palace remains open to visitors.

Dong Khoi Street, home to numerous colonial-style buildings, was once especially important to the French. However, the street has seen significant changes over the years. It was known at Tu Do (Freedom Street) during the Vietnam War. When Communists took over the city it was renamed Dong Khoi -- Total Revolution. Today, the street is Ho Chi Minh's major commercial center. Dong Khoi is home to international brands, stylish cafes, exclusive restaurants, and colonial era architecture including Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, and the Opera House -- all perfect reasons to continue venturing along the street!

The Jade Emperor Pagoda is one of Ho Chi Minh City's most visually spectacular temples and an excellent example of Buddhist architecture. Over a century ago, the structure was built by Cantonese immigrants from Guangzhou in South West China to honor the Taoist god Jade Emperor Ngoc Hoang. Here, pungent clouds of incense fill the air, reminding visitors of the temple's sacred purpose. The Jade Emperor Pagoda is also known as the Tortoise Pagoda because many tortoises circle around a small pond, crawling on each other’s backs.

The War Remnants Museum, formerly known as the Museum of Chinese and American War Crimes, is a stark memorial to the Vietnam War. It includes U.S. military equipment, bombs, armored vehicles, and an immense helicopter. In addition, there are hundreds of striking exhibits and horrific photos. Each year, approximately half a million visitors visit the museum to learn about the intense suffering brought about by the war. While the War Remnants Museum is a very somber place, and these artifacts are extremely difficult to look at, they stand as powerful reminders of the importance of peace.

When it comes to Southeast Asia's highlights, visiting Angkor Wat Temples is at the top of many travelers' bucket lists. Angkor Wat is the centerpiece of the UNESCO-recognized temples of Angkor -- a well-preserved reminder of the Khmer Empire's former grandeur. It comes as no surprise that Angkor Wat tours provide fascinating insights into bygone eras. At least once in your lifetime, see this massive temple complex in silhouette before it shines with the golden light of early morning. As you witness a beautiful sunrise over Angkor Wat, be prepared for a truly unforgettable moment. Over the centuries, overgrown foliage has interwoven itself into the picturesque temple of Angkor Thom. And, if you're looking for less touristic Angkor complex ruins, venture to the hidden gems of Banteay Srei and Banteay Samre to see exquisite salmon-pink sandstone carvings.

Embark on a Tonle Sap tour to see the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. The Tonle Sap's climate is relatively predictable with two distinct seasons (wet and dry). The lake fills to the brim during the rainy season, and in contrast, it can shrink down to just a few feet during the dry season. A cruise through this great lake will take you past Tonle Sap floating villages, home to people whose livelihoods depend upon the fishing and agriculture that these waters provide. Explore Tonle Sap Lake to learn more about Cambodian village life, mangroves, and the stunning bird sanctuary that is situated in this peaceful region.

Luang Prabang waterfalls are spectacular. The Kuang Si Waterfalls, located approximately 18 miles (29 km) from Luang Prabang, are some of the most gorgeous in the world. A Kuang Si Waterfall tour will take you to this majestic three-tiered waterfall which boasts turquoise waters that cascade 160 feet (50 meters) down. The falls collect into pools, and the cold waters are great for a refreshing swim. You can simply relax and enjoy this sublime setting if you wish. If you need to stretch your legs, take a trek to explore the streams that feed the main waterfalls.

Traditional Buddhist ceremonies are an important part of daily life in Laos, and one of Luang Prabang's attractions is the daily ritual of almsgiving. At dawn, monks in tangerine-colored robes emerge from temples and travel through the streets of Luang Prabang in silence, accepting offerings of rice and fruit from faithful pilgrims. Even during wars and periods of political conflict, morning alms in Laos has thrived for centuries. Tourists and non- Buddhists are also welcome to participate in the ceremony. Appropriate attire is required including long pants or skirts, and shirts that cover your shoulders, arms, and torso. You are also welcome to watch this sacred ceremony unfold and take photographs from a distance, but these activities should be done as discreetly as possible.

The Royal Palace in Luang Prabang is a must-see during your Laos vacation. Built in 1904 for King Sisavangvong, the building is set on lovely grounds and now functions as a museum. The Royal Palace Museum (National Museum) is a great destination to explore; it provides an introduction into the past royal family’s history, and its collection of murals and gifts from foreign countries is extremely well-preserved. Some of the museum's highlights include the king's car collection, as well as the highly-revered Phrabang Buddha.

Arguably, Wat Xieng Thong in Luang Prabang is the city's most iconic and beautiful temple, overflowing with religious and historical significance. Wat Xieng Thong, Laos was originally built in 1560, and the temple has since undergone numerous revisions and restorations. Today, this almost 500-year-old complex remains well-preserved and is one of the most significant centers of religious worship for the Lao people. Since Wat Xieng Thong Temple is located close to the Mekong River, it is also seen as the gateway to the city. The building itself exhibits traditional Lao architectural styles and is home to a striking 'Tree of Life' mosaic, intricate carvings, and a massive funeral carriage that measures almost 40 feet (12 m). One of the building's many highlights includes the exquisite Reclining Buddha. Dating back to 16th century, this elegant statue is considered to be one of the greatest Buddhist artworks in all of Southeast Asia.

Wat Mai Buddhist Temple is not only one of Luang Prabang's largest temples but one of the most visually-stunning buildings found in Southeast Asia. This Buddhist temple in Luang Prabang is a major focal point during the Lao New Year when the Phra Bang -- one of the most sacred Buddha images in Laos -- is on display for a ceremonial cleaning. Wat Mai Temple in Luang Prabang was built during the 18th century by King Anurat and has also been the home of Sangkharat, Lao Buddhism's highest dignitary. In addition, Wat Mai is famous for its exquisite sim (ordination hall), which has a five-tiered brick-red roof, elegant carvings and scrollwork, reliefs that depict narrative scenes, and generous flourishes of glimmering gold. Without question, this spectacular temple is one of Laos' national treasures.