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.

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.

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).

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.

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.