A lush, tropical jungle, inhabited by a host of animals, leopards, tigers and elephants, blankets most of Vietnam. In other regions there are a patchwork of rich rice patties, gorgeous beaches and breathtaking mountains jutting out of the sea. If the sublime beauty of the natural landscape isn't enough, it's accompanied by a highly cultured society it has cultivated over thousands of years. One of the biggest delights is sampling the local cuisine.

Culture
The Vietnamese people have had several great philosophies and religions shape their spiritual life; Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism, and Christianity. Over the centuries, Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism have melded with popular Chinese beliefs and ancient Vietnamese animism to form what is known as Tam Giao (or 'Triple Religion').

Although Vietnamese is the official language of Vietnam, dozens of languages are spoken throughout the country. The most widely spoken foreign languages are Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), English, French and Russian, along with various ethnic minorities and Khmer and Loatian.

There are many different artistic forms of expression in Vietnam, most popular are traditional paintings produced on frame-mounted silk, an array of theater, puppetry music, and dance, as well as religious sculptures, lacquer ware, and ceramics.

History
At one point China ruled all of Vietnam until the Indianized kingdom of Funan took control. In the 2nd century the Hindu kingdom of Champa appeared. France gained complete control of all Vietnam by 1867. Independence was granted in 1954 after a hundred year struggle. Communist forces under Ho Chi Minh defeated the French military. The country was split in two zones. US economic and military aid was given to South Vietnam in the 1960s to quell the arguments between the two regions. US armed forces were withdrawn following the Paris Peace agreement in 1973. Two years later South Vietnam capitulated to the North. Hanoi became the new capitol of the United Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

Attractions
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in the country, the economic capital, and the cultural trendsetter. The streets, where much of the city's life takes place, is a myriad of street markets, shops, pavement cafes, stands-on-wheels and vendors selling wares spread out on sidewalks.

Dalat
Dalat is also a good base for trips into the surrounding highlands, which remain tranquil. In Dalat, make sure you visit the Hang Nga Guesthouse & Art Gallery, nicknamed the Crazy House by locals.

Nha Trang
Nha Trang is a good place to go for sun and partying. With very clear turquoise waters (except for the wet season), snorkeling, diving and fishing are prime activities, and just lazing on the town beach is an experience in itself.

Halong Bay
Magnificent Halong Bay, with its 3000 islands rising from the clear, emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin, is one of Vietnam's natural marvels. The tiny islands are dotted with innumerable beaches and grottoes created by the wind and waves.

Hanoi
Hanoi, capital of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, has shaken off its unwelcoming attitude to travelers and has become one of the most beguiling cities in Asia. Its bustling markets, thriving nightlife and excellent food are attracting visitors of every stripe to this ancient city.