Southern Vietnam has been named one of the best places to visit in November by Lonely Planet
Southern Vietnam has been named one of the best places to visit in November by Lonely Planet
This November, Southern Vietnam has been spotlighted as one of the world’s most attractive travel destinations, coinciding with the onset of the dry season, which is considered the region's most beautiful time of year. According to travel guide Lonely Planet, Southern Vietnam ranks among the top ten global destinations to visit in their article "Where to Go in November? The Best Places to Visit Next Month."
Discover Why Southern Vietnam Stands Out
Southern Vietnam is celebrated for its relaxing atmosphere, sharing the limelight with Ghana. Other destinations highlighted by Lonely Planet fall under themes such as wildlife, culture, food, and adventure. Notably, Southern Vietnam and Seoul (South Korea) are the only two Asian locations to be featured in this prestigious list.
An engaging video shared on Lonely Planet’s Instagram showcased the Hon Thom Cable Car in Phu Quoc, underscoring the region’s tourism appeal. The video garnered over 200,000 views, reflecting the excitement surrounding these remarkable destinations.
The Allure of the Dry Season
The primary reason Southern Vietnam earned its spot on Lonely Planet’s list is the transition into the dry season, marked by pleasant weather and warm sunshine. While still a hidden gem for many international travelers, Southern Vietnam is home to stunning attractions like Phu Quoc Island, Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta, and Tay Ninh. Each of these locations offers unique experiences enriched by breathtaking natural landscapes and rich cultural, historical, and spiritual significance.
Phu Quoc: Vietnam's Largest Island
As Vietnam's largest island, Phu Quoc has been attracting international attention and has earned accolades from prestigious global tourism awards. It was ranked as the second-best island in the world by Travel + Leisure in their 2024 World’s Best Awards, following the Maldives, and recognized as a top beach destination by Lonely Planet.
November marks the start of Phu Quoc’s prime tourist season, inviting visitors to enjoy various outdoor activities, including kayaking, snorkeling, and marine sports in the island's pristine waters. The southern beaches, particularly Sao Beach and Kem Beach, provide ideal settings for these adventures. The island also features exceptional golf courses, such as Eschuri Vung Bau Golf, offering stunning views and an immersive experience within nature.
Exceptional Entertainment and Luxury Resorts
Phu Quoc continually enhances its offerings with luxurious resort infrastructure and unique entertainment experiences. It is also the only destination in Vietnam with a special visa exemption policy, allowing tourists to stay for up to 30 days. The island is home to world-class resorts like JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort and La Festa Phu Quoc, making it an international luxury destination.
Unique Experiences Await
Visitors to Phu Quoc can enjoy daily artistic fireworks shows, ride the world’s longest three-rope cable car to Hon Thom Island, and witness the stunning sunset at Hon Bridge. They can also experience world-class shows like "Kiss of the Sea," featuring an impressive display of eight performing arts by 60 international artists.
Tay Ninh: A Hidden Gem for Cultural Exploration
While often overlooked on the international tourism map, Tay Ninh offers a rich exploration of Vietnam's indigenous culture and history, including significant landmarks related to the Vietnam War. The province is home to Ba Den (Black Virgin) Mountain, the highest mountain in Southern Vietnam, standing at approximately 986 meters above sea level.
November is a beautiful time to visit Tay Ninh, as the transition from rainy to dry season unveils breathtaking cloud formations at Ba Den Mountain. Lonely Planet emphasized Southern Vietnam's appeal for healing experiences, particularly the cool air and scenic beauty found at the mountain's summit.
Spiritual and Cultural Experiences
Ba Den Mountain attracts many visitors due to its significant spiritual landmarks. At its peak stands the Tay Bo Da Son Buddha statue, recognized by the Guinness World Records as Asia's highest copper structure at 72 meters tall. Following an award-winning photograph of the statue surrounded by clouds, Tay Ninh has seen a rise in international tourist interest.
Visitors can partake in the lantern offering ceremony held every Saturday evening, where they can write wishes on lanterns and participate in the traditional rituals of lighting and releasing them into the sky. The sight of thousands of lanterns illuminating the mountain creates a magical experience, symbolizing the intersection of earth and sky.
Southern Vietnam, with its captivating landscapes and rich cultural experiences, is a must-visit destination this November. Whether it's the pristine beaches of Phu Quoc or the spiritual allure of Tay Ninh, travelers are sure to find unforgettable experiences in this remarkable region. For more travel insights and updates, keep exploring resources like Lonely Planet.
Source: VNA