Top 15 Must-See Destinations for the April 30th - May 1st Holiday

Cua Lo, Nghe An is a perfect spot for those who love the salty sea breeze. During the holiday season, this place attracts a large number of visitors for sightseeing and relaxation. With its long, smooth beach, gently curving along the clear waters, Cua Lo is rapidly becoming a popular seaside town. It is nestled between two rivers: the Cấm River to the north and the Lam River to the south. The northern side features dramatic mountains rising steeply by the sea, while the southern area is home to peaceful mangrove forests and the calm, deep waters of the Lam River.

The waters of Cua Lo are rich in marine life, home to over 200 species of fish and a variety of local delicacies such as shrimp, squid, crabs, sea snakes, and grouper. In addition to swimming and enjoying the sea, visitors can taste fresh seafood right on the beach or in local eateries at surprisingly reasonable prices. Specialties like glowing squid (a tiny squid species with purple luminescent spots when freshly caught), giant prawns, or grouper are must-tries. For the adventurous, you can join local fishermen in small boats to catch glowing squid 50-100 meters offshore, then enjoy grilled or steamed squid right on the boat. It's a uniquely delicious experience.

Trang An - Bai Dinh is a must-visit destination during this holiday. The Trang An Ecological Tourism Complex, located just 7 km from Ninh Binh City, is part of the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, which was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 2014. Trang An stands out for its stunning combination of lush mountains, clear waters, and rich biodiversity. The Trang An - Bai Dinh area is a unique combination of a spiritual and natural landscape, making it a one-of-a-kind site in Southeast Asia. These two locations, situated less than 10 km apart, are part of the same tourist route, so if you're visiting one, you shouldn't miss the other.

The area features valleys, caves, wetlands, lakes, and a diverse ecosystem, creating the distinctive beauty of Ninh Binh. Moreover, it is home to a large complex of temples, with La Han statues and golden statues of Buddha. You can explore the Trang An Bai Dinh area by boat for an exciting and unique experience.

The Ancient Town of Hoi An is known for its simple, rustic charm, famous for the traditional architecture that blends harmoniously with the town's houses, walls, and streets. The streets in the Old Quarter are laid out in a grid pattern with short, winding roads that embrace the buildings.

As you stroll through these peaceful, narrow streets, visitors not only enjoy delicious local dishes but also witness the everyday life of the locals, which is calm and unhurried. The architectural heritage of Hoi An is rich and exquisite, making it a top destination for travelers from all over the world to explore and enjoy, especially when staying in one of the Old Quarter’s hotels. A visit to Hoi An makes you feel as though time has stood still, with its ancient tiled rooftops, weathered grey walls, and a sense of history that endures to this day.

Beyond its architectural wonders, Hoi An also preserves a rich and diverse intangible cultural heritage. The daily life of the town’s inhabitants, along with their customs, rituals, folk arts, and cultural festivals, are all carefully preserved and continue to flourish. Hoi An is often described as a living museum of architecture and urban lifestyles. Visitors will also be able to savor local delicacies such as corn sweet soup, rice crackers, and stir-fried clams, which are simply irresistible.

If you are not visiting Da Lat during the 30/4-1/5/2020 holiday, you're definitely missing out. Da Lat is a must-see destination with its cool, fresh climate year-round, offering the perfect environment for a relaxing break. The city is truly a gift from nature, with stunning landscapes that will leave you in awe.

Famous attractions in the city are spread across both the central area and the outskirts, including places like Xuan Huong Lake, Cu Hill, Love Valley, Than Tho Lake, and Prenn Falls. However, some locations like Love Valley, Than Tho Lake, and Prenn Falls have lost some of their original charm due to the proliferation of shops, entertainment areas, and landscaping. Another well-known sight, Elephant Falls, located not far from Da Lat, has unfortunately been heavily polluted due to waste and trash dumped by residents living upstream.

In addition, this time of year is when various flowers are in full bloom, such as sunflowers, lavender, purple phoenix, and hydrangeas. During this season, visitors can also indulge in the fresh, delicious strawberries at local gardens, as well as try Da Lat's famous specialties like fresh strawberries, crunchy persimmons, Bao Loc tea, Da Lat wine, fruit jams, and dried fruits.

Ha Giang is known for its towering rocky mountains and winding rivers, and can be divided into three main regions. The northern highland area, located near the Tropic of Cancer, has steep slopes and many valleys, with rivers and streams cutting through the landscape. The climate here is subtropical, but due to its high altitude, Ha Giang enjoys a temperate climate. The western area is known for its rocky mountains and narrow valleys, offering dramatic landscapes and challenging mountain passes.

The lowland region of the province includes the hills and valleys of the Lo River, as well as Ha Giang City. The province is home to towering peaks, including the highest point at Tây Côn Lĩnh (2419m) and Chiêu Lầu Thi (2402m). In terms of flora, Ha Giang is blessed with dense, pristine forests and a rich variety of medicinal plants, with over 1000 different species. Its wildlife includes tigers, peacocks, pheasants, pangolins, and other unique animals.

Located 300km from Hanoi, Ha Giang is a rugged highland region famed for its stunning natural beauty and dramatic landscapes. It is particularly popular for its golden terraced rice fields, which come alive with vibrant colors during the harvest season. Ha Giang is a favorite destination for motorbike enthusiasts, especially those who want to conquer famous mountain passes like Quản Bạ and Mã Pí Lèng.

Ha Giang also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with over 20 ethnic groups calling the region home. Visitors can experience the traditions and culture of these communities, including their vibrant handicrafts such as embroidered scarves, fabric bags, and brightly colored clothing. The province is famous for its scenic highland markets, where locals gather to trade goods in a picturesque setting.

The ancient capital of Vietnam, Hue, exudes a calm, historic beauty that offers a window into the royal life of the past. The imperial city, with its grand palaces, temples, tombs, and pagodas, most of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, surrounds the city and serves as a reminder of the glory and power of the Vietnamese monarchy.

However, Hue has also embraced modernity, with numerous hotels, bars, and entertainment venues catering to the growing tourism industry. For travelers, the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda remains one of Vietnam’s most revered landmarks. At sunrise, when the mist rises from the Perfume River, the city’s serene atmosphere is at its most enchanting, offering a peaceful escape for all who visit.

Hue is also known for its rich culinary heritage, with many delicious dishes that reflect the region’s royal history, such as Com Hen (rice with baby clams), Bun Bo Hue (Hue-style beef noodle soup), Banh Canh (thick noodle soup), and various traditional sweets like Che Hem and Banh Hue (including Banh Beo, Banh Loc, and Banh Nam). For those looking to bring a taste of Hue back home, local specialties such as Keo Me Xung (sesame candy), Tom Chua (fermented shrimp), Tre Hue (fermented pork), and Cung Dinh Tea make for great souvenirs.

Phu Quoc, often referred to as the 'Emerald Island', is Vietnam's largest island, and the biggest in a group of 22 islands located in the Gulf of Thailand. This picturesque island, part of Kien Giang province, is a tropical paradise known for its pristine beaches and lush greenery, making it the largest and most popular tourist destination in the country.

The northern part of the island is home to stunning sites such as Phu Quoc National Park, Ham Rong Mountain, Ganh Dau, and Cua Can. The highlight is Bai Dai Beach, with its crystal-clear waters, white sand, and towering casuarina trees. You can also explore the serene Suoi Da Ngon and Suoi Da Ban waterfalls. Historical attractions include the Nguyen Trung Truc Temple and the Vinpearl Land amusement park. The infamous Phu Quoc Prison is also a must-see for those interested in the island’s darker past.

In the southern part, Bãi Sao is a remote and stunning beach, perfect for relaxation. The region also offers nature lovers the chance to trek through the lush trails of Suoi Tranh, explore the vast pepper plantations, visit fish sauce factories, and see the beautiful pearl farms. Dương Đông, the island’s main town, features two famous landmarks: Dinh Cậu Temple and the bustling Dinh Cậu Night Market. If time allows, don't miss the Cuoi Nguon Museum, the ninth private museum in Vietnam, which tells the story of Phu Quoc, and the ancient Sư Muôn Pagoda. Adventure seekers can enjoy fishing, coral diving, night squid fishing, or kayaking at Bai Khem.

During the 30/4-1/5 holiday season, instead of visiting the usual crowded beaches or popular tourist cities, why not change the pace and head to the peaceful Mekong Delta region for a more tranquil getaway? Can Tho, the heart of the Mekong Delta, offers a unique cultural experience with its charming riverside life and slower pace. It’s an ideal destination to fully immerse yourself in nature and local traditions.

Famous for the Cai Rang Floating Market, lush fruit orchards, and traditional craft villages, Can Tho is a must-visit for those wanting to explore the waterway lifestyle. The city is home to three main ethnic groups: Vietnamese, Chinese, and Khmer, each contributing their own festivals and customs to the region, adding a rich cultural diversity.

Exploring Can Tho means discovering vibrant floating markets, ripe fruit gardens, and traditional festivals. The beauty of this place lies in its rustic, authentic charm. Once known as the 'Western Capital' (Tây Đô), the allure of Can Tho comes from drifting along the Hau River, watching the sunrise rise over distant mangrove forests, and feeling the peaceful tranquility of the area.

Located about 60km from the heart of Hai Phong City, Cat Ba offers a cool climate, crystal-clear waters, lush forests, and numerous islands, making it a top choice for young travelers seeking island and beach adventures. A 2-3 day trip is perfect to explore and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this beautiful archipelago. Besides the refreshing climate, visitors can explore several stunning beaches and small islands scattered across Cat Ba.

The main island features a pristine forest on limestone mountains, an area being developed for eco-tourism. To the southeast of the island lies Lan Ha Bay, while the southwest boasts Cat Gia Bay, where small, clean beaches with gentle waves are perfect for beach tourism and relaxation. The seascape is dotted with limestone formations similar to those found in Ha Long Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay. Some smaller islands also feature beautiful, pristine beaches.

Popular spots here include the Cat Co beaches (1, 2, and 3), with Cat Co 2 being the most beautiful, offering clear waters where you can see coral reefs. Cat Ba is also famous for its local specialties, such as shrimp noodles, sea snakes, seven-course sea crab, and steamed tu hai.

Da Nang attracts visitors not only for its diverse natural beauty but also as a city that is "green, clean, and beautiful" with friendly locals. When in Da Nang, you can explore three UNESCO World Heritage Sites nearby: the ancient capital of Hue, the historic town of Hoi An, and the sacred My Son Sanctuary. This beautiful coastal city in central Vietnam, with its clean environment and good infrastructure, is considered one of the most livable cities in the country. It offers a wide variety of attractions, services, and activities, and visitors here are free from tourist scams.

At night, the city sparkles with vibrant lights, but unlike the hustle and bustle of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang offers a peaceful and clean atmosphere with civilized living. The city's cleanliness and modern lifestyle make it a place worth visiting to marvel at how livable a city can be. A must-visit in Da Nang is the Son Tra Peninsula, a lush forested area with rich biodiversity and pristine beaches surrounded by rocky cliffs. Known as the "City of Bridges," Da Nang is famous for its illuminated bridges over the Han River, providing a stunning nightly light show.

In addition, the Ba Na Hills eco-tourism area is becoming increasingly popular, with its world-record cable cars and the largest indoor amusement park in Southeast Asia – Fantasy Park. Da Nang also boasts several stunning natural attractions that will captivate visitors, including the Marble Mountains, Ba Na Hills, Son Tra Peninsula, the Hai Van Pass, the romantic Han River, and the iconic Han River Bridge. And of course, the beautiful My Khe Beach, one of the most stunning beaches in the world, is also a must-see.

Ba Vi National Park is renowned as one of the top ecological sites in Vietnam, offering a refreshing atmosphere surrounded by lush mountains. Located just under 60 km from the heart of Hanoi, Ba Vi is a perfect getaway for those seeking fresh air and the breathtaking beauty of wild, unspoiled nature. The park stands out amidst the vast greenery with its mysterious and enchanting beauty, often shrouded in mist, making it a must-visit for adventurers in Hanoi.

The Ba Vi area is also famous for its local specialties, including dishes like catfish, river eel from the Da River, goat meat, wild boar, goat's milk, grilled goat meat, taro soup, sour pickled vegetables stir-fried with crispy pork fat, and cassava greens. During the colder months, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like camping and roasting meat over an open fire in the expansive forest, warming up both body and soul while savoring a delicious meal under the chill of winter. The mystical atmosphere of the forest adds to the unique charm of the experience.

Located just under 2 hours from Hanoi, Tam Dao is a charming destination that should not be missed during your trip. Here, you'll be treated to stunning views of the landscape, as layers of clouds envelop the mountains surrounding the town. The town of Tam Dao is nestled within the Tam Dao National Forest, offering a cool, refreshing climate with an average annual temperature of around 18°C.

With its clean air and cool weather, Tam Dao is a perfect spot for eco-tourism and relaxation, making it a popular short getaway for Hanoi residents. Visitors to Tam Dao are sure to have unforgettable experiences, particularly when taking photos at its famous scenic spots. Though the town is relatively small, it is home to a variety of delicious local dishes, including fresh su su vegetables, wild greens, and free-range chicken. Be sure to indulge in these local treats when visiting Tam Dao.

Sapa is a mountainous district in Lao Cai Province, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. Visiting Sapa during this time of year, tourists can partake in the vibrant rhododendron flower festival. Moreover, you can enjoy the stunning flower views by taking the cable car or the scenic mountain train, all while surrounded by the colorful blooms.

While in Sapa, don't miss a visit to the peaceful and serene Cat Cat Village, which offers a perfect escape to unwind during your holiday. For those seeking adventure, a trek to the peak of Fansipan, standing 3,143 meters above sea level, will reward you with panoramic views of the magnificent Sapa landscape. There are also many other attractions worth visiting in Sapa, such as Ham Rong Mountain, Muong Hoa Valley, Silver Waterfall, and Ta Phin Village.

Mai Chau is a mountainous district located in the northwest of Hoa Binh Province, bordered by Da Bac and Tan Lac districts to the east, Quan Hoa district in Thanh Hoa to the west and south, and Van Ho district in Son La to the north. Formerly known as Mường Mai, Mai Chau was established in the 13th century during the Tran dynasty. Historically, the people of Mai Chau defended the border and achieved many military victories, earning recognition from the imperial court. The local ethnic forces have long been a source of pride for their bravery against the Ming invaders.

For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, there is no better place than Mai Chau - Hoa Binh. The charm of this area lies in its tranquil, rustic beauty, with charming homes nestled around lush fields and the peaceful sound of birdsong in the air. Visitors can also experience the local culture firsthand by participating in daily activities of the ethnic groups in the Northwest Highlands, offering a truly authentic rural experience.

The Ha Long Bay Heritage Area is a UNESCO-recognized site covering 434 square kilometers in a triangular shape, with its corners marked by Dao Dau Go (west), Ba Ham Lake (south), and Cong Tay Island (east). It consists of 775 islands, featuring caves and pristine beaches. The adjacent buffer zone is a national cultural and scenic site, designated by the Vietnamese Ministry of Culture and Information since 1962. Ha Long’s terrain is a mix of islands and mountains interspersed with sea valleys, characterized by saline ecosystems, mangroves, and steep limestone islands, offering a striking contrast of landscapes in perfect harmony.

Known as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Ha Long Bay is famous for its magnificent islands and mysterious beauty. In addition to its natural allure, the bay is also a biodiversity hotspot, home to diverse ecosystems and thousands of plant and animal species. The bay is rich in cultural and historical significance, offering an unforgettable experience for visitors. Ha Long Bay is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.