Vietnam
Ancient lantern towns, karst mountains and extraordinary food at every turn.
Why Vietnam?
Vietnam rewards a traveller who moves at a considered pace, spending enough time in each place to find the side streets, the neighbourhood cafés and the moments away from the busier attractions.
For a solo traveller, Hoi An is one of the world's great bases: small, walkable, extraordinarily beautiful and with a tailoring, food and café culture that makes long, solitary, pleasurable days entirely natural.
Why it works.
Vietnam is a deeply rewarding solo destination. Its food culture — phở at a plastic stool, bánh mì from a street cart — makes eating alone one of the genuine pleasures of the trip. Internal transport has improved dramatically, and the country's north-to-south structure gives a solo journey natural shape.
Best areas.
Hoi An ancient town
The most beautiful town in Southeast Asia, lantern-lit and walkable, with the best tailors and restaurants in Vietnam.
Hanoi's Old Quarter
The northern capital's 36-guild streets, a lake at the centre and the best phở in the world.
Ha Long Bay or Ninh Binh
Karst limestone landscapes by water, the most dramatic scenery in northern Vietnam.
Vietnam is long and varied; the ideal time depends on region. February to April suits both north and central. The south is best November to April. October and November are beautiful in Hoi An. Alma will plan the route around the best conditions for your timing.
Domestic flights are fast and affordable between Hanoi, Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City. Trains are scenic and excellent for the coastal route. Alma will structure the north-to-south (or south-to-north) flow so travel time is part of the experience.
Ready to make Vietnam your own?
Tell us how you like to travel and we'll build a personalised plan for Vietnam — the right neighbourhoods, stays and experiences for you.
Plan My Vietnam Trip