By: Sharon Bentley November 8, 2016

vietnam | Travel Inspiration

Vietnam New Year – ‘Tet’

Tet Nguyen Dan is the Vietnam Lunar New Year, which marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring and is one of the highlights of the Vietnamese calendar; bringing with it days of traditions and celebrations.

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By: Kirsty Blakeley September 29, 2016

vietnam | Travel Inspiration

Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum

H? Chí Minh was born in 1890 and was the prime minister (1946–1955) and president (1945–1969) of the North of Vietnam. He was the Vietnamese Communist revolutionary leader.

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By: Kirsty Blakeley September 7, 2016

vietnam | Travel Inspiration

Phu Quoc Island

Phu Quoc Island is a 46km long pear-shaped island located off the south coast of Cambodia and to the south west of Vietnam. Although known as Vietnamese, it is also claimed by Cambodia, who calls it Kho Tral.

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By: Kirsty Blakeley August 17, 2016

vietnam | Travel Inspiration | Travel Tips

Halong Bay Junk Boats

We have carefully selected a range of different junk boats to use on Halong Bay. Details of our favourites are given below.

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By: Kirsty Blakeley June 30, 2016

vietnam | Travel Cuisine

Vietnamese Cuisine

Vietnamese food is extremely fresh and flavourful. Their cooking methods are quick and uncomplicated, involve a range of ingredients that work fabulously together.

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By: Martin Hosie January 10, 2016

vietnam | Destination Guides

Vietnam travel guide

Tours in Vietnam may take in the beautiful sandy beaches of the south or the breathtaking beauty of Halong Bay, the fertile lands of the Mekong Delta or the hill-tribe forests in the north.

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By: Kelly Anne Ellis July 16, 2019

8 Bucket-list travel destinations to visit in 2020

From iconic destinations to lesser-known gems, we have chosen eight amazing destinations to add to your travel bucket list in 2020.

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By: Kelly Anne Ellis July 16, 2019

vietnam | Travel Tips

Visiting Vietnam: Visa Information

Visas are required for many nationalities of travellers to Vietnam, except for nationals of about 24 countries, who are exempt from obtaining a visa. Those who require a visa have several options available to them. We have put together a comprehensive guide that will provide you with important information to make the process smooth and easy for you.

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By: Jarred Manasse August 8, 2019

Early Bird Specials! Are you ready to travel in 2020?

We've just launched our 2020 dates in some of our most popular destinations and to celebrate, we're giving you discounts on them!

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By: Jarred Manasse October 21, 2019

Everything you need to know about our small group tours

Interested in booking one of our small group tours but you're not sure what to expect? This handy guide will provide you with everything you need to know.

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By: Tara Jenneker November 12, 2019

vietnam | Travel Inspiration

Top five temples in Vietnam

Planning on exploring Vietnam? Here are the top five temples to visit in this historic country.

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By: Tara Jenneker January 17, 2020

vietnam | Travel Tips

Why you should visit Vietnam in February

If you’re thinking of travelling to Vietnam, February is your best bet - you can expect dry, bright weather throughout the whole country.

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By: Kelly Anne Ellis January 17, 2020

vietnam | Destination Guides

Top 10 temples to visit in Vietnam

Vietnam is home to thousands of temples and fascinating places of worship. We've picked out our top ten.

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By: Kelly Anne Ellis January 31, 2020

Best destinations to visit in March

March is a transitional period in many countries, a bridge between summer and winter. We've picked the best destinations to travel to during March.

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By: Michaila Knauff February 3, 2020

vietnam | Destination Guides

Top 10 things to do in Hanoi

The vibrant city of Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and is the second biggest city in the country. Hanoi encompasses an interesting mix of the East and the West with visible traces of the country’s rich history. Vietnam was invaded by the Chinese for a long time, later by the French and also by the Americans in the 20th century. Hanoi was named the 8th most popular destination in the world in 2016 by TripAdvisor and is a highly sought after destination for visitors from all over the globe due to its rich historical and cultural heritage, breath-taking scenery and delicious cuisine. Hanoi boasts a myriad of places to see and things to do, so we’ve compiled our top 10 suggestions on the best things to do in Hanoi.

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By: Jarred Manasse April 16, 2020

thailand | vietnam | Travel Inspiration

Lockdown chat with Mariska - Travel Consultant at Encounters Travel

We speak to Mariska Knoesen, a travel consultant here at Encounters Travel, who shares her lock-down experience and which travel destination she misses the most.

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By: Jarred Manasse November 8, 2023

vietnam | Destination Guides

A Vietnam travel guide to Huong River: Explore Perfume River in Hue City - Truong Tien Bridge and Phu Xuan Bridge

Explore the Rich Heritage of Hue City Along the Perfume River: A Journey Through the Imperial City and Truong Tien Bridge.

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By: Jarred Manasse November 9, 2023

vietnam | Travel Inspiration

10 Best things to do in Hoi An, Vietnam: A travel guide

Discover the best things to do in Hoi An's ancient town, including basket boat rides & the vibrant night market - a must-visit in Vietnam.

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By: Jarred Manasse November 9, 2023

vietnam | Destination Guides

Explore the art of water puppetry in Vietnam: Unique Vietnamese water puppets, traditional art, Vietnamese art

Discover the unique Vietnamese art form of water puppetry. Learn about traditional water puppets and the people behind this ancient art.

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By: Jarred Manasse November 9, 2023

vietnam | Travel Inspiration

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Hanoi: Exploring the revered final resting place of the beloved leader

Discover the historical significance of the popular tourist spot Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Hanoi. A must-visit for understanding Vietnamese people. Find out more!

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By: Jarred Manasse November 9, 2023

vietnam | Destination Guides

Cu Chi tunnels used during the Vietnam War: Underground tunnels, Củ Chi tunnels Saigon - A Vietnam travel guide

Discover the historic Cu Chi Tunnels in Vietnam War, a travel guide to Saigon. Explore the Củ Chi's significant role in Vietnam's history.

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By: Tara Jenneker January 5, 2024

vietnam | Travel Inspiration

A guide to the 10 Best Things to Do in Hue: Hue attractions, the best things to see in Hue, and more

Explore the 10 best things to do in Hue —the ancient capital of Vietnam. Uncover the best things to see, including tombs of emperors in this historic city.

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By: Lexus Kemp January 5, 2024

vietnam | Destination Guides

Ha Long Bay Travel Guide: Exploring the Enchanting Cat Ba Archipelago on Your Trip to Halong Bay

Discover the allure of Halong Bay, a captivating bay attraction. Your ultimate travel guide for planning a trip to Halong - everything you need to know about this stunning bay!

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By: Lexus Kemp January 5, 2024

vietnam | Travel Inspiration

Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City: A guide to visiting Ho Chi Minh City attractions

Explore Ho Chi Minh City with the best things to do, from iconic attractions like Cu Chi Tunnels, temples, and pagodas to the stunning Saigon skyscrapers. Plan your trip to HCMC now!

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By: Tara Jenneker January 8, 2024

vietnam | Travel Inspiration

Mekong Delta, Vietnam: A travel guide

Explore the Mekong Delta and its lush landscape, vibrant culture, and unique cuisine on an unforgettable journey. Discover the beauty of Vietnam's most iconic river and its surrounding areas.

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By: Lexus Kemp January 8, 2024

vietnam | Destination Guides

Halong Bay Junk Boat Cruise in Indochina: A travel guide

Embark on the best Halong Bay cruise for a mesmerizing journey through the stunning landscapes and captivating junk tours in this Vietnamese paradise.

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By: Tara Jenneker January 8, 2024

vietnam | Travel Inspiration

The Central Sector of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long in Hanoi: Explore the rich Vietnamese history

Discover the rich Vietnamese history of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long in Hanoi, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the heart of the capital city.

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By: Lexus Kemp January 8, 2024

vietnam | Destination Guides

Uncover the Old Quarter charms with a 2-Hour Hanoi Cyclo Tour: Explore Hanoi, Vietnam

Explore Old Quarter of Hanoi on a unique 2-hour Cyclo Tour. Ride through the streets of Vietnam, relax, and take in the highlights locally and traditionally.

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By: Tara Jenneker January 8, 2024

vietnam | Travel Inspiration

Things to Do in Phnom Penh, Cambodia - Unveiling the must-see Attractions in Phnom Penh

Discover the rich history of Phnom Penh with must-see attractions like the National Museum, Silver Pagoda, and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. Explore things to do in Phnom and Cambodia.

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By: Lexus Kemp January 9, 2024

vietnam | Travel Inspiration

Uncovering the Tragic Past of S-21 & Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum located in Phnom Penh

Explore the tragic past of Cambodia's S-21 prison at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh. Learn about the atrocities committed during the Khmer Rouge regime and pay your respects to the victims.

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By: Ama Abrahams January 9, 2024

vietnam | Destination Guides

Choeung Ek Killing Fields, Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, and Choeung Ek Genocidal Center: The History of Cambodia in Phnom Penh

Discover the haunting past of Cambodia at Choeung Ek Killing Fields and Genocidal Center. Unearth chilling truths about Khmer Rouge, S-21 Prison, and the genocidal history.

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By: Tara Jenneker January 9, 2024

vietnam | Travel Inspiration

The Royal Palace of Cambodia: A Must-Visit Attraction in Phnom Penh, Southeast Asia

Discover the rich heritage of Cambodia at the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, the official residence since 1866, showcasing Khmer grandeur along the riverfront.

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By: Lexus Kemp January 9, 2024

vietnam | Destination Guides

The Silver Pagoda in Phnom Penh, Cambodia: A Jewel of Southeast Asia

Discover the Silver Pagoda (Wat Preah Keo) and Royal Palace in Phnom Penh. Explore Khmer heritage with the Emerald Buddha statue and exquisite Baccarat crystal at Preah Keo Morakot.

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By: Ama Abrahams January 9, 2024

vietnam | Travel Inspiration

Visit the Skun Market commonly known as the Spider Market in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Experience the unique and vibrant atmosphere of Skun Market in Cambodia, the world-famous spider market. Shop for exotic souvenirs, traditional food, and handmade goods from local artisans.

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By: Tara Jenneker January 10, 2024

vietnam | Travel Inspiration

Kulen Mountain, Cambodia: Pilgrimage Haven, Waterfalls, and 16th Century Marvels in Phnom Kulen National Park

Explore Kulen Mountain and Phnom Kulen National Park near Siem Reap, Cambodia. Discover 16th-century marvels, reclining Buddha, and ancient lingas.

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By: Lexus Kemp January 10, 2024

vietnam | Destination Guides

The Best Things to Do in Siem Reap, Cambodia: Angkor Wat Temple and more Siem Reap attractions

Discover the best things to do in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Visit Angkor Wat Temple and more top attractions in the city of Siem Reap. Plan your Cambodian tourist visit now.

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By: Lexus Kemp January 10, 2024

vietnam | Travel Inspiration

Hmong Village, Vietnam: Homestays, trekking Adventures, and more through the Mountains of Ha Giang in the Sapa Region

Explore the mountainous beauty of Vietnam in Hmong villages, Sapa and Ha Giang. Discover ethnic culture, traveler reviews, and great deals. Book your trek now!

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By: Tara Jenneker January 11, 2024

vietnam | Travel Inspiration

Exploring the Best Things to Do in Hanoi, Vietnam: Unveiling the Top Hanoi Attractions

Explore the vibrant culture of Hanoi! From ancient temples to bustling night markets, discover the best things to do in Hanoi. Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Vietnam's capital.

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By: Jarred Manasse September 12, 2025

vietnam | Travel Inspiration

Unique Experiences on Our Vietnam Tours

Ready to experience Vietnam in all its flavors and colors? Join us on one of our tours and let these moments become part of your story.

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By: Martin Hosie October 16, 2025

vietnam | Travel Inspiration

10 Unforgettable Vietnam Bucket List Adventures

Vietnam is a land of contrasts where limestone peaks rise from emerald bays, bustling streets hum with life, and ancient traditions thrive beside modern energy. From dawn Tai Chi in Halong Bay to the lantern-lit evenings of Hoi An, from the mystery of the Mekong Delta to the imperial grandeur of Hue, each stop offers a story to carry home. On our immersive Small Group tours in Vietnam, you’ll unlock authentic encounters that turn a Vietnam adventure holiday into a lifetime memory.

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