Unveiling the Hidden Charms of Vietnam: Beyond the Crowds

Vietnam’s alluring combination of stunning beaches, historical sites, captivating mountain hikes, and delectable cuisine has captured the attention of travelers worldwide.

However, with the increasing popularity of this Southeast Asian gem, you may find yourself amidst the masses at the most well-known destinations. Fear not, for we have sought the expertise of three seasoned, Vietnam-based travel writers to unveil the country’s wonders away from the crowds.

But here’s the catch: promise to keep these insider recommendations a secret!

Discovering Hidden Coffee Paradises in Buon Ma Thuot

Meet Christine Van, an established magazine lifestyle editor and Viet-Kieu American who has called Vietnam home for two decades.

If you consider yourself a coffee enthusiast, then Buon Ma Thuot is your ultimate paradise. Situated in the central highlands of Vietnam, this region is renowned for its vibrant coffee culture. Immerse yourself in guided tours of lush coffee plantations, relishing the aroma of freshly roasted beans, and even mastering the art of Vietnamese-style coffee brewing. As the nation’s largest coffee-producing area, Buon Ma Thuot takes immense pride in its primary export, evident through the annual coffee festival held in mid-March.

However, Buon Ma Thuot’s wonders extend beyond its coffee culture. Enchanting waterfalls like Dray Nur and Dray Sap transport you into a realm of picturesque beauty akin to fairy tales. Though swimming is prohibited, the lush green surroundings and the soothing sound of cascading water create a breathtaking experience from the land.

After exploring the waterfalls, I often find solace in my uncle’s nearby home. If you don’t have local family connections, the Dakruco Hotel is an excellent alternative with its comfortable rooms, outdoor pool, and spa, ideal for unwinding after a day of adventure.

To completely immerse yourself in the local culture, a visit to Lak Lake is a must. This tranquil oasis is nestled amidst charming villages, inhabited by the welcoming M’Nong ethnic group. Experience their vibrant rattan and wooden stilt houses near the water’s edge and embark on canoe tours offered by various companies. Engage with the M’Nong people, partake in their cultural traditions, listen to their folk songs, and join in the drumming sessions.

Conclude your day with a fabulous meal at Quán Nem Nướng Thanh Loan, savoring nem nướng dắk lắk, one of Buon Ma Thuot’s signature delicacies. This dish features seasoned ground pork mixed with an array of aromatic herbs and spices, wrapped in fresh rice paper. Grilled over hot coals, it offers a tantalizingly smoky and flavorsome experience.

Immersing in the “Kingdom of Fish Sauce” at Chau Doc

Allow us to introduce Phan Cac Truc, a storyteller, visual arts enthusiast, and native of Vietnam.

Situated near the Cambodian border, Chau Doc is a captivating city within the Mekong Delta that thrives on its multicultural heritage, evident through its architecture and cuisine influenced by the Chinese, Cham, and Khmer communities. Alongside delightful Mekong Delta cruises, visitors can explore sacred sites such as the Hang Pagoda and Ba Chuc Tomb, or venture into nature’s embrace at the Tra Su Bird Sanctuary, teeming with diverse flora and fauna.

My personal highlight in Chau Doc is the mesmerizing Chau Doc Floating Market, renowned for its distinct culinary adventures featuring an incredible variety of fish plucked fresh from the river. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste mắm (fermented seafood) and savor the remarkable range of fish sauces crafted from distinct species like snakehead, catfish, and anchovy. Sample the local specialty bún mắm, often referred to as “Vietnamese gumbo,” or indulge in the region’s signature dish, lẩu mắm (fish sauce hot pot), which tantalizes the taste buds with shrimp, fish, meat, and over 20 different types of vegetables and herbs. During the festive season, the market buzzes with activity as the locals prepare for celebrations, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere.

Another must-visit gem in the region is the breathtaking Tra Su Cajuput Forest, a floating wonderland and one of Vietnam’s most picturesque sites. Timing your visit during or just after the monsoon season from June to November allows you to witness the forest’s magnificent transformation, as brilliant shades of green envelop the surroundings. I also recommend embarking on a 4km (2.5-mile) hike up Sam Mountain, treating yourself to panoramic views of the vast rice fields that stretch towards the border. Before beginning the trek, grab some hot sponge cakes made from palmyra sugar, a local specialty readily available in village houses and stalls.

Exploring Nature’s Treasures in Tranquil Lang Co

Let’s now dive into the insights of Giang Pham, a prominent lifestyle, food, and beverage writer based in Ho Chi Minh City.

Away from the bustling tourist hotspots, Lang Co is a hidden gem nestled between the imperial city of Hue and Danang, boasting an abundance of rich traditions, warm hospitality, and diverse landscapes. This serene haven unveils pristine fishing villages, national parks, inviting white-sand beaches, and picturesque turquoise bays.

During my visits, I find solace at the Laguna Lăng Cô, a sprawling 280-hectare (692-acre) resort offering breathtaking views of the sea, surrounded by lush forests and majestic mountains. The resort’s attentive staff can help organize various local tours, including visits to the charming fishing village of Canh Duong. Here, locals maintain traditional and sustainable fishing practices, such as sun-drying fish with natural salt to enhance flavor and preservation. The hotel actively collaborates with local fishermen, providing an opportunity to join them on a boat tour to learn about their fishing techniques, which sustain this vibrant village.

Another destination not to be missed is Bach Ma National Park, a true treasure trove showcasing awe-inspiring natural wonders. Prepare to be captivated by towering waterfalls that plummet nearly 300m (984ft), the vibrant flora and fauna, and breathtaking vistas overlooking Lang Co Bay from the park’s peak at 1450m (4750ft) elevation. Numerous guided trails cater to different levels of expertise, with some leading you to the remnants of French colonial villas and hotels, adding a historical twist to your nature adventure.

For those seeking extraordinary cuisine and fresh seafood, including oysters that exude the essence of the seashore, I highly recommend Lang Chai Lang Co Seafood Restaurant. Situated near the picturesque Lap An Lagoon, this culinary haven offers stunning views of the bay while you indulge in mouthwatering delicacies.

The ideal time to visit the Lang Co region is from March to July, when sunny weather dominates with minimal rainfall. However, brace yourself for the humidity. From August to December, the region experiences the rainy season, transforming the landscapes into lush shades of green.