Modern Vietnam offers visitors a variety of choice. In the far flung north, Sapa offers world-class trekking amidst terraced rice fields and ethnic encounters with diverse hill tribes. In the country’s capital of Hanoi, wonder the streets of the old quarter where traditional Sino-Vietnamese motifs mingle with French colonial flair. To the east embark on a cruise through Halong Bay, an awe-inspiring landscape of limestone islands rising from the sea like mythical dragons.

In central Vietnam, explore the former imperial capital of Hue, its sprawling citadel and the tombs of Emperors standing along the banks of the Perfume River. Continue south to the ancient town of Hoi an, a melting pot of history and cultures, reflected in its varied architecture, from wooden Chinese shop houses and temples to colorful French colonial buildings.

In the South Central Highlands discover Dalat, a former French hillside retreat. Dalat is known for its temperate climate, lush forests, waterfalls and has some of the best mountain biking and hiking opportunities in Vietnam. In Southern Vietnam, let your senses be overwhelmed by Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), the high octane commercial capital of the country. Navigate the head spinning motorbike traffic, sample gastronomic delights from myriad food stalls and wonder the streets witnessing a mix of old and new in this ever-changing city.

For a calmer pace of life, head to the Mekong Delta, the primary breadbasket (or more aptly “rice basket”) carved out by a maze of small canals and rivers dotted with villages and floating markets. Off the coast of Vietnam, laze on the tranquil beaches of Phu Quoc island or truly get off the radar with a trip to the pristine sands of Con Dao island.

The ancient origins of Vietnam’s literature, language and culture, and the country itself, began in the north along the fringes of the Red River Delta. Long controlled and influenced by the Chinese, Vietnam enjoyed nine centuries of independence until the French colonial rule. In 1887, Vietnam became a part of French Indochina, a period led to an architectural and culinary legacy. At the end of World War II Vietnam declared its independence; however France continued its control until soundly driven out by Ho Chi Minh’s nationalist forces in 1954.

Shortly thereafter based on the Geneva Accord, Vietnam was divided into two parts: the Communist North and the anti-Communist South. US economic and military aid to South Vietnam increased and conflict brewed on the horizon. In March 1965, the first American troops landed in the South and the Vietnam War began. Tens of thousands of people died on both sides, and billions were spent in military expenditures. The US and Vietnam signed a peace agreement in 1973, with Americans withdrawing forces. Internally however, the South and North Vietnamese forces continued to fight . In 1975, the capital of South Vietnam – Saigon – was captured and renamed Ho Chi Minh City. North and South Vietnam were merged to form the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

For the next few decades Vietnam, demoralized by the effects of war, remained economically stagnant. The country was isolated from the world, and foreign visitors found obtaining visas difficult. Those who were successful found that travelling in the country was severely limited. Things changed in the 90s when the communist government embarked on a massive economic reform program known as Doi Moi (renovation) introducing capitalist elements to its economic policy and opening up the country’s trade to foreign investment. Today, Vietnam is one of the fastest growing and most exciting countries in Asia. The country’s dynamic population looks towards the future while embracing the world and visitors with open arms.