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The fastest growing economy of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries, life in Vietnam marries the hustle and bustle of cities with the natural world. Within an hour you can go from being downtown in a shopping mall to standing at the foot of a mountain. Even excluding Vietnam's islands it has over 3,200 kilometres of coastline, meaning no matter where you are in the country a beach and the sea is only a short trip away.
101 Million
People
Tropical
Climate
34
Provinces and cities
With early kingdoms dating back to around 500 BC, Vietnam is a country shaped by diverse cultures and a rich history. Today, it is home to many important cultural and historical landmarks, from former imperial palaces to heritage sites such as Hoa Lo Prison and Con Dao. For those living in Vietnam, the good news is that many of these fascinating places can be visited during a regular days off, providing an excellent opportunity to explore the country’s history and cultural heritage.
Vietnam is a great country for healthy lifestyle and healthy eating. Every dish is an array of green and freshly cooked vegetables. With endless choice on offer, there are so many options from western comfort food to local dishes. Fresh seasonal fruit is available across every city and at low prices and if you enjoy your coffee, Vietnam is the country for you. Coffee culture is huge in Vietnam with many people choosing to go grab a coffee after work and staying at coffee shops from seven to ten at night as an alternative to going to bars with friends.
Travel across Vietnam is quite easy and becoming more convenient each year. Grab can easily help you to travel within cities and more public transport is being added to major cities each year. Travelling between cities there are many flights and sleeper buses that can be used to travel between the South and North at low cost. Aside from Grab and buses, two metro lines in Hanoi have been opened, with plans to expand to over ten lines in each city in the coming years. Once you settle your apartment near your school make sure to plan time to visit the emerald green waters of Ha Long Bay or the limestone Karsts and rice paddies of Ninh Binh.