Caption: Hà Nôii and Phú Quốc Island are on CNN's list of the 17 best places in Asia. VNA/VNS Photo

HCM CITY – Hà Nội and Phú Quốc Island are on CNN's list of the 17 best places in Asia.

The US-based television network cites natural charm, rich history and good cuisine as its reasons for choosing the two destinations in the north and south of Việt Nam.

"As the capital of Việt Nam, Hà Nội is a hub of history, culture and endless energy,” CNN said.

The Old Quarter is the best place for first-time travelers to start in Hanoi. Located on the northern end of Hoàn Kiếm Lake, the Old Quarter’s most popular attractions include quaint Buddhist shrines, street markets, and traditional Vietnamese arts, it said.
The Old Quarter is also ideal for travelers looking to experience the rare sense of timelessness that seems to sum up this area of the city.

Besides Hanoi, CNN suggested that travellers try Phú Quốc Island, also known as “Pearl Island”, Việt Nam's largest island in the Cửu Long (Mekong) Delta province of Kiên Giang.

The island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Southeast Asia and the world's longest overseas cable car. — VNS