For most Westerners, Vietnam is associated with war and conflict. But the country today offers the traveler more than just a history lesson; it is a multi-layered culture with major influences from America, France, and China – all due to occupation and colonization. Language, architecture, cuisine, history: nothing escaped foreign influence in Vietnam. But before you think that European, Chinese, and American influence dominate the Vietnamese culture, realize that much of traditional Vietnamese life is still ingrained in the country, especially in outlying rural areas.

The capitol of Vietnam is Hanoi, one of the world’s most interesting and vibrant cities. Though Hanoi is less bustling than Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), it’s 3.5 million residents represent the best of the traditional and contemporary lifestyle of the Vietnamese people. The country’s other cities and attractions – like the Mekong Delta – are also an interesting balance of old and new. While the country is trying to leave its turbulent past behind them, it is nearly impossible to visit the region without a reminder of the conflicts that have taken place. For many history buffs, this is one of the main draws of the small country.

Vietnam is more than a chapter in a history textbook, however; it is a grand mixture of religions (Buddhists, Catholics, Confucianists, and more), arts (water puppetry, folk art, music, and literature), cuisine, languages, architecture, and more.

Tours are coming soon……..