Off the beaten track

Vietnam’s many islands, frontier towns, and vibrant ethnic communities are still relatively unknown but absolutely worth visiting. Going to lesser-known destinations gives you an even more authentic holiday, and diverts traffic from tourist-heavy destinations. Looking for nature and rice terraces? Sleep in a homestay in Pu Luong. Eager to see the Mekong Delta? Spend a few days in lovely Cái Bè. Ready to hit the beach? Claim a spot on the sand in Qui Nhơn. You get the gist. There are many alternatives to popular spots, where, for a little extra effort you can have the place all to yourself. Your dollar will reach communities that otherwise can’t benefit from those hot spots, while your carbon footprint will be negligible. Enjoy!