Vietnam

Vietnam holidays offer a rich tapestry of sights and sounds. Here you'll come across some of the most peaceful views in the world, from graded rice terraces to sand dunes, and temples to little fishing ports. You can spend time in the developed city centres, full of life and local flavour, and take time out in the little riverside villages or in an island resort. From Hoi An to Phu Quoc, Vietnam is spectacular.

There's so much to discover in the beautiful country of Vietnam. You might want to start in the vibrant, colourful capital of Hanoi, but don't miss the charming fishing village of Hoi An, cut through by narrow canals, and seaside Nha Trang, with its palm-lined beaches. From Ha Long Bay in the north, with its jungle-covered limestone islands, to the Mekong Delta in the south, there are plenty of things to do in Vietnam.

Vietnam tours are made even better by all the fantastic restaurants and cafés along the way. It's almost impossible to have a bad meal here. Top of the list of Vietnam food is the quintessential pho noodle soup: Pho Gia Truyen in Hanoi serves a really authentic version. You can enjoy an atmospheric coffee at Highlands Coffee, set on a large moored ferry. In Hoi An, Mr Kim's Café des Amis serves the best seafood and veggie set menus in town.

Hotels in Vietnam come in all types. In Hoi An, the Nam Hai is the ultimate designer escape, with a fantastic location on China Beach. Alternatively, you can get a super-cheap dorm bed at the Hop Yen Hotel. You'll find clean and spacious rooms with charming décor at the Jasmine Hotel in Hanoi, or you could try its sister branch, the Hanoi Posh Hotel. For an island bolthole, try the Mango Bay Resort on Phu Quoc Island.

Make time for shopping in Vietnam. Ho Chi Minh City has some great-value retail opportunities, especially if you're in the market for lacquer work or embroidered cloth. Here and in Hoi An there are fleets of tailors who can make cheap copies of your garments for nominal prices. In Hanoi treat yourself to pretty silk lanterns, linen goods or contemporary art from the local galleries. Hoi An's Hieu Da sells leather and suede goods, which can be made up from scratch overnight.