Vietnam is a whirlwind. It's a country of contrasts — vibrant and chaotic, beautiful yet frustrating, rich in history but sometimes feeling hollowed out by the relentless churn of tourism.
You’ll find spectacular landscapes and undeniably great food, but you’ll also navigate pushy touts, relentless sales pitches, and an atmosphere that can sometimes feel more transactional than authentic.
Perhaps it’s not Vietnam’s fault; centuries of colonisation and conflict have left their mark, shaping a nation that often feels like it’s still searching for its identity. Yet, beneath the surface, there’s a resilience and depth that keeps drawing travellers in. Vietnam isn’t perfect, but it’s real — a place where the highs are thrilling and the lows are, well, part of the experience.
If you’re willing to embrace the chaos, the contrasts, and the complexities, Vietnam might just surprise you. This overview of Vietnam will help you navigate its highs and lows and decide if it’s your bowl of Pho.