Opening her piece, Tooland wrote, “For those seeking a fresh holiday destination in Southeast Asia, Vietnam is the ideal place to explore - a country full of captivating experiences.”

From her personal perspective, Tooland emphasized that “Vietnamese tourism stands out in many ways.”

When thinking of Southeast Asia, many travelers tend to associate it with Thailand’s famous beaches. However, not everyone knows that Vietnam also offers stunning coastal spots in Phu Quoc, Mui Ne (Binh Thuan), and Hoi An (Quang Nam), among others.

“Many beaches in Vietnam remain untouched and peaceful. Vietnam is also home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with the most iconic being Ha Long Bay and the ancient town of Hoi An,” Tooland highlighted.

For Tooland, sailing through Ha Long Bay or kayaking among limestone islands was an unforgettable experience “in one of the world’s most serene destinations.”

She further suggested that travelers eager to discover terraced fields and majestic mountain landscapes should head to Sa Pa. For adventure seekers, she recommended the winding 370km Ha Giang loop through rugged terrain as “an unforgettable journey.”

Tooland also praised Vietnam’s rich “cultural tourism” offerings through its architecture, museums, and local lifestyles.

“Vietnamese cuisine has long been globally celebrated for its freshness, nutrition, and bold flavors. For first-time visitors, don’t miss signature dishes like pho, banh mi, or fried spring rolls,” she advised.

As for her personal favorite, Tooland declared, “Vietnamese coffee has no rival.” Whether it’s egg coffee, coconut coffee, or salted coffee, she found each variety “uniquely creative and delicious in a way that’s hard to find anywhere else.”

Another standout factor, according to Tooland, is Vietnam’s affordability. Travel, accommodation, and meals are all reasonably priced - an important consideration for tourists planning extended stays.

“It’s no exaggeration to say Vietnam is a wonderful destination, offering a travel experience that is authentic, meaningful, and truly unforgettable,” she concluded.

Do An