The beauty of the terrace fields in Sapa, the northern province of Lào Cai. — VNA/VNS Photo Quốc Khánh

HÀ NỘI — Việt Nam has been praised by the New Zealand Herald for offering 'something most destinations can’t: genuine surprise around every corner.'

In a recent article titled Unlock the layers of Vietnam, the prestigious newspaper provides a comprehensive look at the country’s outstanding tourism destinations, from the 'emerald waterways' of the Mekong Delta to the ancient imperial grandeur of Huế and the 'chaotic energy' of HCM City's bustling streets.

"Often described as the jewel of Southeast Asia, the country enchants visitors with its ancient culture, dramatic landscapes and iconic cuisine. For Kiwis chasing adventure, warmth and something truly different, it’s a perennial bucket list favourite," the paper says.

The article also highlights insights from Lucy Anthony, a reservations consultant for Wendy Wu Tours, who experienced Việt Nam firsthand after years of promoting the country to travellers.

A corner of Hạ Long Bay. The UNESCO-recognised World Heritage site is always one of the most attractive destinations in Việt Nam. Photo vietnamtourism.gov.vn

Anthony had helped countless customers book their dream Việt Nam holiday, but last year she switched roles and became the traveller, taking her mum on the Vietnam at a Glance tour, according to the New Zealand Herald.

“It was just really exciting to be somewhere so different from anywhere I’d been before,” she told the newspaper. “The cities, the history, the scenery – it all just blended together into this incredible experience.”

Seeing Việt Nam through both industry eyes and as a wide-eyed first-timer gave Anthony a unique perspective on why the country leaves such a lasting impression. However, it also highlights what many Kiwi travellers often miss out on.

Anthony also cited the civilisation in Việt Nam, which dates back more than 4,000 years, creating a culture so layered and deep it is hard for people from newer parts of the world to comprehend.

Regarding the role of a traveller to Việt Nam, she also suggested various famous tourist destinations, such as Sapa in the northern province of Lào Cai, the UNESCO-recognised World Heritage site of Hạ Long Bay, the capital city of Hà Nội and the historical relic of Củ Chi in HCM City.

Foreign tourists in the ancient city of Hội An. — VN/VNS Photo Thanh Hòa

“Việt Nam’s one of those places where there really is something for everyone,” she says in the New Zealand Herald. “But to really get it, you need someone who has lived and breathed it their whole lives to show you around. It makes all the difference.”

Whether it’s watching mist roll over Hạ Long Bay, walking ancient streets in Hội An, or eating street food with new friends in Hà Nội, the memories made in Việt Nam are the kind that stay with you for life – especially when you have the right person showing you the way, according to Anthony.

For Anthony, Việt Nam is one of those places that truly brings special experiences and emotions to everyone. The difference lies in the fact that tourists are led by enthusiastic guides who are knowledgeable about the geography, culture and local customs, allowing them to fully understand every corner of the country.

Another aspect that tourists love when travelling in Việt Nam is that all transportation services, meals, entrance tickets and flights are carefully arranged in advance, so they only need to focus on enjoying everything and spending time relaxing in the country known as the 'pearl' of Southeast Asia.

Tourists from New Zealand have increasingly chosen to visit Việt Nam in recent years. Earlier, House of Travel, the largest travel company in New Zealand, stated that it has seen a significant 130 per cent year-on-year increase in holiday bookings to Hà Nội by New Zealanders, alongside a 32 per cent rise for Bali and an 11 per cent rise for Tokyo.

David Coombes, CEO of House of Travel, recently stated that this growth reflects a shift in Kiwi travel appetites, as families become more confident about exploring new destinations. — VNS