Vietnam
Undisturbed beaches and soothing mud baths may not be the first things that come to mind when one thinks of Vietnam, but these are a few of the beautiful things to discover when visiting this Southeast Asian haven. Vietnam is brimming with culture, flavorful foods, and experiences that leave a lasting impression. To discover for yourself, head to coastal Vietnam, and the southeast area of Nha Trang, which is popular for its many natural amenities and proximity to sites worth seeing.
Must-Do: Indulge in a restorative mud bath filled with mineral-rich clay from the area at Tháp Bà Mud Bath, the oldest in Nha Trang. Rinse off in hot or cold mineral pools or in waterfalls also located there. Tháp Bà Mud Bath also has swimming pools, whirlpool tubs, a sauna, and other water fixtures for total relaxation. Before or after a soak, visitors can admire and immerse themselves in the lush tropical flowering plants and trees that surround this one-of-a-kind retreat.
Eat: Nha Trang is considered the seafood capital of Vietnam, and Hải sản địa phương Vien Ho is a favorite local eatery. Here, diners enjoy plates such as steamed mussels in a savory brown sauce garnished with local chilis, gently steamed lobsters split down the middle, and fried fish served whole and seasoned with the flavors of Vietnam. For dipping purposes, dishes are accompanied by house-made sauces, some sweet, some spicy. And the seafood is so fresh that one diner recently wrote in an online review, “Everything was swimming before it went into the kitchen.”
Day-Trip: You can spend a day exploring temples in Vietnam, and it’s well worth it. Located on the northern bank of the Cai River, Po Nagar Temple melds history and religion that date back to the seventh century. Follow the scent of burning incense to this ancient place of worship, where Chinese and Vietnamese Buddhists still go to pray. Like giant chess pieces waiting to be played, a series of pillars leads to the main towers, intricate and impressive tributes to the Vietnam goddess Yan Po Nagar.
