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Smiling Vietnamese girl in red ao dai riding a bike

About Vietnam

Overview

Vietnam, due to geographical location connecting to China, Laos, and Cambodia, has been very much affected by different cultures, most remarkably Chinese. Under the long and narrow landscapes of the nation with the mixture of oriental mystery and French romance, it became one of the favourite places to visit in Asia. Attributable to the relatively low expenses of travelling, breathtaking natural sceneries, and the convenient accessibility between destinations, it became one of the most popular countries for backpackers' choice. Tranquil Halong Bay, busy Ho Chi Minh City, sun-sea-sand in Danang and Nha Trang are the experiences that you cannot miss in this country.

History

Many dynasties ruled over Vietnam in between periods of Chinese occupation (2nd to 15th centuries). Ruled by Le Dynasty between 15th to 17th centuries, gaining control over the former Champa Kingdom. 19th century to the last dynasty, Nguyens came into power with the imperial city in Hue during a civil conflict that had left Vietnam fractured. Late 19th to early 20th century, French colonisation of Vietnam which had left their legacy in food and buildings as we can see nowadays. Early 20th century, Japanese seized the opportunity to invade Vietnam while France was occupied by Germany. Mid 20th century, first Indochina war began in 1946, ended on 30 April 1975, when ultimately American forces retreated from Saigon as the city was taken by North Vietnamese troops.

Language

Vietnamese is the official language. English is increasingly favoured as second language. French, Chinese, Khmer, and various highlander languages are also spoken. Between 85 to 90 percent of Vietnam's residents are ethnically Vietnamese.

Facts

Consistently voted as cheapest country to travel in Southeast Asia. One of the world's largest coffee beans producer. The king of cashew, produces more than 55% of the global supply. 3444km of coastline, UNESCO heritage site of Hoi An, globally well known Da Nang and Nha Trang with their stunning beaches and great nightlife. One of the cheapest countries to get a tailor-made outfit. Almost every household has motorcycle, 60 millions motorcycles in the country with the population around 90 millions. The famous Vietnam War, lasted close to 20 years and more than 3 millions Vietnamese and 60 thousands American lives were lost. Vietnamese flag, star represents five main classes in society, intellectuals, farmers, workers, youths and military personnels. Red represents blood lost during years of conflicts in the country.

Culture

- Ethnic group - Total 54, mostly Vietnamese, and others from Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, China and Papua New Guinea. All tribes have their own costumes but without a doubt, the most famous Ao Day.

- Food - Fresh and healthy, mostly seen are rice, noodles, soup, vegetables, chicken and beef. Most well known food are Pho and Banh Mi.

- Religions - Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, and Catholicism in the modern Vietnam.

- Traffic - Mostly flooded by motorcycles, the memorable street-crossing in Ho Chi Minh City.

- Festivals - Main events are Lunar New Year and Mid Autumn Lantern Festival.

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