However there is another reason to visit, five in fact. Thanks to the efforts of local governments and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), a few National Parks and Historical sites are now being protected for future generations.
Be sure to visit them when you make the journey to Vietnam.
Hoi An
Located some 30km south of Danang in Quang Nam Province, Hoi An Old Town is a stunning little town full of history, culture and beautiful old architecture.
Perfect for just strolling around, Hoi An was placed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1999.
Between the 15th – 19th century, Hoi An was one of the major trading centers for South East Asia, before the Thu Bon River silted up and operations were moved north to Danang where they continue today.
Today many visitors flock to Hoi An for not only the history and culture, but also for the beach, tailors and the many restaurants and bars that operate through out the town.
Halong Bay
Covering some 3000 sq. km, Halong Bay is famous for it’s spectacular scenery, which is made up of 1,969 limestone and schist islands.
Sitting in the northeast corner of Vietnam and bordering the Chinese border, the Vietnamese Government made Halong Bay a National Protection Area in 1962. It wasn’t until 1994 that it was placed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
For the Vietnamese Halong Bay holds strong myths and legends, while for the traveler, Halong is simply magically!
Hue – The Complex Of Hue Monuments
In 1993, the former Capital of Vietnam, Hue, had some of its monuments placed on the UNESCO World Heritage Listing.
During the Nguyen Dynasty (1802 – 1945), 13 Kings ruled the country from Hues Citadel, which is located on the banks of the Perfume River.
Hue, whilst not the Capital city anymore, is now considered the religious center of Vietnam and Buddhism.
My Son
Situated 68km southwest of Danang, My Son was once the Imperial City of the Charm Dynasty, which ruled through between the 4th – 13th centuries.
Today many of the statues and monuments have been moved to the Charm Museum in Danang, however My Son, comprising of more than 70 temples, is a major draw card for travelers visiting Quang Nam Province and Hoi An. My Son was listed by UNESCO in 1999.
Phong Nha Cave – Ke Bang National Park
Comprising of some 65km of caves and underground rivers, Phong Nha is home to over 100 families and some of Vietnams most endangered plants, fauna and animals.
Extending back to the Laos border, Ke Bang National Park is primarily tropical forest and a landscape made up of hundreds of limestone karts.
Listed with UNESCO in 2005, the park provides a great environment for trekking, photography and boating. Phong Nha is growing quickly in popularity with both local and foreign travelers.
Adam Hurley is an experienced tour guide, living and working in Vietnam for nearly 5 years. He also works in photography.
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