Country Information

V is Most Certainly for Vietnam

For many, their first thoughts when it comes to Vietnam are of violent conflicts of the past. However, if you instead consider the country as it is in the 21st century, you’ll find a fascinating and diverse place to spend your gap-year. Unfortunately, Vietnam is a very wet country for most of the year – the difference is in the temperature. The drier months can see temperatures reaching 40 degrees C in the south, while in the north, icy winds and frost plague the mountains.

Generally, October through March sees a colder wet season, while May through September is warmer, though still rainy. The near-constant rain can be an annoyance for tourists, so many visit the country during April, which is really the only dry time of year. However, Vietnam is a lively and interesting place to visit if you don’t mind a spot of rain.

Why not travel to the Sapa Valley, to walk in the mountains’ mysterious haze, and encounter tiny tribes of unique people? Or, you could take a boat trip around An Thoi islands, 15 miniature islands, some even with their own beaches. If you want to catch a glimpse of some interesting wildlife during your gap-year, then Cat Ba National Park is ideal, with over 32 different types of mammal and more than 70 different species of bird.

Whilst on your gap-year in Vietnam, it is only right that you celebrate the Vietnamese culture and heritage. A perfect way to do this is by visiting one of the many museums Vietnam has to offer, such as the Fine Arts Museum, or the Women’s Museum, which is constantly undergoing modernizations to keep up with Vietnam’s social changes. Or why not visit one of Vietnam’s beautiful temples, such as the Mariamman Hindu temple – which also happens to be the only active Hindu temple in Vietnam?

To take part in something more active, consider the Hué Art Festival, a dynamic celebration of Vietnam’s colorful art scene. A more somber, yet nevertheless significant, visit would take you to the Reunification Palace, a symbolic reminder of the conflict with the southern Vietnamese government. After all, if you’re spending your gap-year in Vietnam, it’s morally right that you recognize the conflict and bloodshed that occurred in the country. After all of your touring and learning, you’ll probably be hungry, and Vietnam is a place where every dish and flavor imaginable come together. European restaurants flourish with a prime example being the Vine Wine Boutique Bar and Café.

You can take your dining experience to a new setting by trying out Highlands Coffee, a novel café located on a boat. Or why not try traditional Vietnamese cuisine with a modern twist, with restaurants such as Bobby Chinn’s Restaurant offering sheesha as an after-dinner treat. While many people cannot escape their preconceptions of Vietnam, spending your gap-year there would be the ultimate way of identifying yourself as a member of the new generation, not restricted by your parents’ and grandparents’ memories of turmoil and bloodshed. And you’ll find that Vietnam has much to offer in return.

Vietnam Info

As you can tell from the name this trip focuses on the North of Vietnam, if you are wondering why this is so special, here are some good reasons to add this to your trip!

After gaining independence for the French, Vietnam split into 2 countries, North and South Vietnam. After the war with the USA the communist North was successful in uniting the 2 countries to become Vietnam as we know it today.

Hanoi

The Capital, Hanoi is located in the North, and being the main base of operations for Vietnams war time leader Ho Chi Mihn, there is plenty to see and learn about Vietnam, by visiting the North of thre country.
A week could be spent in Hanoi itself, visiting monument, museums and attractions (be sure to check out the war memorial featuring salvaged wreckages from US Aircraft and also pay a visit to uncle Hos house!)
There is also plenty to see and do checking out the mentally busy street scenes in Vietnam! Like having a glass of beer in one of Hanoi’s street bars for a whopping 7 pence.

Sapa

Sapa is also located in the North of the country and is the highlight for many. It is indescribably beautiful in Sapa, and well worth the effort to put your trekking shoes on!

Halong Bay

Probably the most famous part of North Vietnam (other than Hanoi) is Halong bay, a world heritage site. Thousands of islands make this area incredibly picturesque, so bring lots of memory for your camera, as you are going to need it!