LONELY PLANET'S OFFICIAL ITINERARY INFORMATION
Itinerary: The Big One
ONE MONTH
Run this one in reverse, starting out in the cauldron of commerce that is Ho Chi Minh City. Hit the markets, browse a couple of museums and take a day trip to the underground world that is the Cu Chi Tunnels . Carry on to Tay Ninh, headquarters of the Cao Dai sect and their rococo temple, for a morning service.
Delve into the delta for a day or two... Mekong, that is. Try an overnight or two at Can Tho , the social and commercial heart of the region, and take to the water to cruise through the incredible world of the floating markets.
For a complete change from the pancake-flat delta, head up into the central highlands to the romantic hill station of Dalat . Back down on the coast, take in the stops from the Coastal Classic itinerary, including the beach resort of Nha Trang, the cultured charmer that is Hoi An and the old imperial capital of Hue. North of Hue is the former Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) that divided North and South Vietnam. All around this area are famous sites from the American War, including Khe Sanh Combat Base and the Vinh Moc Tunnels. All aboard the night train to Hanoi, gateway to the north.
To the east of the capital lies Halong Bay, with more than 3000 limestone outcrops dotting the scenic bay. Cruise through the bay to the rugged, foreboding Cat Ba Island before looping back to the capital through Hai Phong, for a slice of the atmosphere of old Hanoi.
To top it off, take a night train to Sapa, unofficial capital of the northwest hill-tribe region and a beautiful base for hiking and biking.
Trains and buses stop at most destinations, but to cover this huge distance a Hue-Hanoi flight could save time. Travel by boat around the Halong Bay area - the only way to get a good look at the crazy karsts.
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