view, landscape, nature-2843338.jpg

Vietnam:  Land Of The Blue Dragon

In the world of wandering, we explore new places and immerse ourselves in new cultures, new cultural people, new environments.  The thirst to find oneself in this new environment does not want to be quenched.  Vietnam or the land of the white dragon made me more colorful in this colorful world.  The friendly behavior of the people there, the delicious food there, the trustworthiness of the people there gave me a shadow of eternal joy and peace.  Let’s discuss some facts about this Asian country today, so that you can enjoy yourself there.

Vietnam at a glance

The country of Vietnam is located in Southeast Asia.  Geographically it is bordered by China to the north, Laos and Cambodia to the west and the East Sea to the east.  This country is home to about 97 million people.  Hanoi is the capital of this beautiful country, which is unique in its own beauty.  Vietnam is mainly known for its rich history, diverse culture and beautiful scenery.

Culture of Vietnam 

The Vietnamese are mainly influenced by Confucianism, Buddhism and Taoism.  Moreover, due to geographical location, they follow both Chinese and Western cultures.  The Vietnamese family value system is based on good name, honor, love of learning and loyalty to family.  And moreover, talking about their dress, Ao Dai is a gown worn over trousers, which is considered the national dress.  Vietnamese traditional arts, cuisine, and festivals are significant aspects of the culture.

Natural beauties of Vietnam 

Vietnam is full of natural beauty and quality.  Its birth is a blessing from the creator.  It has the sea as well as other places to visit.  Vietnam’s beauty includes stunning landscapes such as the limestone islands of Ha Long Bay, the rice terraces of Sa Pa, the vibrant Mekong Delta and the picturesque beaches of Phu Quoc and Da Nang.  Also mentioned below are some of the places we visited to quench the thirst of the wanderlust:

  • Ba Be National Park.
  • Hoang Lien Son mountain range.
  • Ban Gioc Waterfall.
  • Ha Long Bay.
  • Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park.
  • Son Doong cave.
  • Thuy Son Mountain.
  • Mui Ne Beach.

Weather in Vietnam

This incredibly beautiful country bears the characteristics of both tropical and temperate regions.  The north of Vietnam has four distinct seasons, while the south is hot and humid all year round.  The rainy season coincides with the Monsoon circulation, which brings heavy rainfall from May to October in the north and south and from September to January in the central region.  Hence, you will actually find a mixed climate here which will give you a chance to enjoy a unique beauty.

Language

The vast majority of Vietnamese speak Vietnamese.  Vietnamese is the only national language of about 80 million people in Vietnam.  It is an Austroasiatic language.  The Vietnamese are tonal and use a Latin-based script called Quốc Ngữ.

National currency

Since Vietnam’s independence in 1978, the country’s sole currency, the Vietnamese đồng (VND), has been issued and controlled by the State Bank of Vietnam.  For foreigners like us, there is the convenience of bank-based money exchange, which converts our dollars into that country’s currency.  The Vietnamese dong has a huge downside against the dollar  Currently 1 dollar is equal to 24655 Vietnamese dong.

People’s nature in Vietnam 

The Vietnamese people are known for their rich cultural heritage, resilience and strong sense of community.  Their varied traditions, delicious food, friendly behavior with the people of the outside world are bound to attract people’s hearts.

Foods in Vietnam 

Vietnamese cuisine is famous for its vibrant flavours and balanced approach.  There are such mouth-watering dishes that you won’t be satisfied with just one bite.  From the iconic phở (noodle soup) to bánh mì (baguette sandwiches) and spring rolls, the cuisine showcases a harmonious blend of herbs, spices and textures, making it a foodie’s delight.  Also, a short list for food lovers is given below:

  •  Pho.
  •  Cha ca.
  • Banh xeo.
  •  Cao lau.
  • Rau Muong.
  • Nem ran/cha gio
  •  Goi cuon 

Markets in Vietnam 

Vietnam’s busy and vibrant markets offer travelers a wonderful experience.  Places like Hanoi’s Dong Xuan Market and Ho Chi Minh City’s Ben Thanh Market offer a wide range of goods, from clothing and souvenirs to street food.  These markets in Vietnam reflect the vibrant culture and local crafts.  Some market names are mentioned below for the interest of the readers:

  • Hoi An Night Market. 2,548. Flea & Street Markets.
  • Ben Thanh Market. 13,253. Flea & Street Markets.
  • Ben Nghe Street Food Market. 2,265. Flea & Street Markets.
  • Cai Rang Floating Market. 1,838. Flea & Street Markets.
  • Night Market. 805. Flea & Street Markets.
  • Bac Ha Market. 499. Flea & Street Markets. 
  • Dalat Market. 423.
  • Central Market. 687.

Religion and belief

Vietnam is primarily an atheist state.  Most people here do not believe in religion.  Yet religion exists here among some communities and people.  The three main religions in Vietnam are Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism.  Sometimes, they are combined into one religion called the Three Teachings or Tam Giao.  Moreover, Catholicism, Protestantism and Cao Dai exist in Vietnam.

Why you need to visit Vietnam

Vietnam’s natural beauty, rich culture, rich history and sincere locals seem to be a complete package.  From stunning landscapes like Halong Bay and the Mekong Delta to ancient temples, bustling cities, delicious food and warm hospitality, Vietnam offers an unforgettable and immersive travel experience.