Vietnam is an attractive tourist country. There is also a coastline, with resorts that allow you to enjoy warm sea waves and good weather almost throughout the year, and many attractions that allow you to create an exciting excursion program.
Where is it located and what sea is it washed by?
Geographically Vietnam applies To South-East Asia and is located on the Indochina Peninsula. In the West the country borders with Cambodia and Laos, in the North with China.
The Vietnamese coast stretches along the eastern and southern parts of the country and is washed by the South China Sea, the Gulf of Thailand and the Gulf of Tonkin.
The best tourist places to relax - photos and descriptions
Main part resorts of the country are located in the southern part. The north of Vietnam is characterized by weather conditions that are not always conducive to a resort holiday; in the south there are periods of rain, but in general there much warmer throughout the year and there is practically no winter.
Phan Thiet and Mui Ne
These resorts are located in the south of the country and specialize in beach holiday . At the same time, in Mui Ne, Russian-speaking tourists, as a rule, feel more comfortable, since the Russian diaspora has settled there, many representatives of the Russian-speaking population have own business, there are a lot of signs in Russian on the streets.
Nha Trang
This resort is one of most popular and at the same time, like Mui Ne, it is filled with a significant amount of Russian-language service. Many Russians have their own restaurants, excursion bureaus and other companies that work in the field of tourism and recreation.
Nha Trang offers opportunities for the most varied recreation. Wellness services are developed here, but there is also a lot of entertainment, including the famous Vietnamese diving.
Dalat
Is high mountain resort, which is located in the central part of Vietnam. Both Vietnamese and foreigners relax here. Moreover, the resort has a certain claim to elitism:
- many golf courses;
- cozy parks and forests;
- boat trips.
Dalat has magnificent nature, many waterfalls and coniferous forests. Excellent conditions for a relaxing holiday.
Phu Quoc and other islands
Phu Quoc- fabulous resort island, where a large safari park was recently created. In addition, there is a lot of entertainment and a great beach holiday.
Con Dao Island– a relatively new tourist destination, but worthy of attention. There's great ecotourism there. In addition to its magnificent beaches, Con Dao offers:
- reserve;
- fishing;
- observation of exotic animals.
If you find yourself near Halong Bay, you can treat yourself to island visits Cat Ba and Tuan Chau. They offer wellness services and entertainment combined with a beach holiday.
Mountain resorts
These resorts should be noted because of the presence of mineral springs there.
Vietnam has many healthy mineral water sources, but there are relatively few resorts nearby.
Of course, the weather there is not ideal for holidays all year round, but here are the conditions for have a good rest quite optimal.
Located near Hanoi Ba Vi– a resort with a national park. There you can enjoy:
- mud baths;
- bathing in hot water;
- healing sessions of traditional medicine.
Not far from Ho Chi Minh City is the city of Vung Tau, whose territory includes Binh Chau resort. The resort is actively developing, offering hot mineral springs and quality service.
Planning a budget: how much money to take to Vietnam for 7, 10, 14 days? Find the answer here.
Beaches and coast
Beaches in the south The countries are suitable for resort holidays almost throughout the whole year. In autumn the rainy season begins there, but warm days are still observed.
Most resorts have access to the sea with a water temperature of at least twenty degrees, meaning you can always swim.
North less favorable weather conditions in winter. It really gets cold there (by Vietnamese standards) and swimming in winter is not possible.
Sights of the country
The authentic Vietnam is not only resort holiday, but also an abundance of attractions.
This country has many territories where buildings of ancient civilizations and many natural beauties remain.
Besides It should be noted Remnants of the colonial era, many of the houses in Vietnam remain from the era when the French ruled the country.
For people from northern countries, they are attractive exotic entertainment:
There are absolutely original excursion options such as visiting guerrilla tunnels left over from the Vietnam War. Halong Bay is considered one of the most beautiful spaces on the planet.
Hanoi abounds architectural structures of different times: from the era of the development of Buddhism to the grandiose buildings of the times of communism. Da Nang attracts Marble mountains and pagodas. Tourists can see the famous Reclining Buddha statue watch in Phan Thiet.
In general, a lot of attractions are concentrated in the relatively small territory of Vietnam.
Regardless of which part of the country you go to, you will be able to make an interesting cultural program for yourself.
Interesting things, souvenirs and gifts that you can bring from Vietnam are in this article.
International airports
Now the territory of the country includes nine international airports, but only until four are there regular flights from Russia. The largest is Tan Son Nhat, which is located in Ho Chi Minh City. Not far from the capital(45 kilometers from Hanoi) is Noi Bai Airport, which attracts tourists with its architecture in the style of a classic Vietnamese pagoda.
If you need to fly to Dalang, it has its own airport three kilometers from the city. Khanh Hoa Province uses Cam Ranh, which is located in Nha Trang.
Tourists who are interested in resort holidays most often used Tan Son Nhat Airport, which is closest to others popular resorts. In the future, this airport will be used for domestic flights, and “resort tourists” will be served by Long Thanh Airport.
How to easily and comfortably cover a distance of more than 10,000 km? All the secrets of flying to Vietnam are here.
Socialist Republic of Vietnam.
Viet-nam means "country of the southern vets."
Capital of Vietnam. Hanoi.
Vietnam area. 332,000 km2.
Population of Vietnam. 79939 thousand people
Location of Vietnam. Vietnam is a state in the Southeast, in the east of the Indochina Peninsula. In the north it borders with, in the west - with and. In the southwest, east and south it is washed by the waters of the Gulf of Thailand.
Administrative divisions of Vietnam. It is divided into 52 provinces and 3 central cities.
Vietnam form of government. Republic.
Head of State of Vietnam. President, elected for a term of 5 years.
Supreme legislature of Vietnam. A unicameral National Assembly whose term of office is 5 years.
Supreme executive body of Vietnam. Government.
Major cities in Vietnam. Haiphong, Ho Chi Minh City.
Official language Vietnam. Vietnamese.
Religion of Vietnam. 55% of the population profess, 12% Taoism, 10% Catholicism, 23% Islam, Protestantism, paganism.
Ethnic composition of Vietnam. 88% are Vietnamese, 12% are Chinese, Muong, Thai, Meo, Khmer, Man, Cham.
Currency of Vietnam. Dong = 100 su = 100 hao.
Flora of Vietnam. About 40% of the territory is covered with tropical trees. Above 600-700 m in the north and 1000-1200 m in the south, pine and broad-leaved trees (oak, beech, chestnut) grow in mixed tropical forests. Bamboo is common along the rivers. Significant areas, especially in, are covered; in the south there are mangroves.
Fauna of Vietnam. Animal world represented by elephants, deer, bears, tigers, leopards. Among the small ones, the hare, squirrel, and monkey are especially widespread. A variety of birds and reptiles are observed. Of the latter, crocodiles, lizards and snakes live here.
Of course, we cannot say that this is absolutely all of Vietnam, especially since we left one of the interesting regions (Sapa and the surrounding area) for the next time, but nevertheless, during this time we formed both a general impression of the country and recorded many details about the characteristics of Vietnam and the Vietnamese.
We regularly make notes about all the interesting facts both during preparation for the trip and, of course, during the trip itself, and now we have systematized our notes and present to your attention 90 facts about Vietnam that surprised us.
In many ways, these facts are based on our observations and this is the Vietnam that we saw. If your opinion on some points differs from ours, welcome to the comments!
1. Second place in rice consumption per capita is firmly held by Vietnam, losing first place to Burma. The average Vietnamese eats 169 kg (!) of rice per year, i.e. a family of two people needs almost a kilogram of rice per day. Well, you don’t even have to stutter about the variety of rice varieties (there are dozens of them here), or do you still think that there are 3-5 types :)?
2. Pho soup is one of the most popular Vietnamese dishes. This is a soup with rice noodles and, most often, beef, although it also happens with chicken or fish. Pho soup is served in almost every cafe and restaurant, there is even a chain of establishments called PHO24. The Vietnamese eat it with chopsticks, mainly for breakfast.
3. Banh mi or French baguette sandwich– This is another very popular dish in Vitenam. The baguette is cut and a variety of fillings are placed inside: meat, fish, tofu, eggs, herbs, it turns out to be a street Subway.
4. Fish sauce is very popular in Vietnamese cuisine.– it is made from fish that has been subjected to a fermentation process. Simply put, fish sauce is what comes out of fish that has been mixed with salt and kept in barrels under pressure for several months. Doesn't sound too nice, does it? In general, the smell is even worse =) But the locals cannot imagine life without it.
5. Plastic trash can, which stands under every table - a mandatory attribute in very cheap local eateries. If this is not provided, then visitors simply throw garbage under the table. Also, the waiter, when clearing the table, can sweep the garbage directly onto the floor. We had previously seen the same habit of littering in local catering establishments only in 
6. In the simplest cafes - “for locals” As a rule, there is no menu; there is a choice of 2-3 standard dishes (rice and noodles) with several variations.
7.
IN tourist places Vietnam– complete culinary abundance. Any cuisine of the world, a large selection of seafood, coffee shops, in general, everything your soul and stomach desire. Of all the variety, we only tasted crocodile and frog legs, but here you can try almost any exotic meat - turtle, scorpion, ostrich, eat the heart of a snake or drink the blood of a cobra 
8. Hot Pot is a popular tourist attraction in Vietnamese restaurants. A gas stove is placed on the table, and a saucepan with broth is placed on it, where the ingredients are added during the process either independently or with the help of a waiter. 
9. Low, child-like chairs and tables right next to the roadway– another bright and memorable feature of Vietnamese catering. Moreover, decently dressed office employees can dine in such places. 
10. Hanoi has, where instead of tables and chairs there are bathtubs with toilets, and food and drinks are served in mini-urinals and medical ducks :)
11. Vietnam is the largest exporter of dragon fruit (pitahaya)– we drove past huge, endless “cactus” plantations strewn with red fruits several times 
12. Vietnamese money(dongs, 20,000 VND ~ $1 USD) are made of plastic (polymer money) - they do not get wet, do not tear and practically do not get dirty.
13. Vietnamese traders, for the most part, they didn’t seem very friendly to us. If they don’t understand something, for example, an order in a cafe or at a market, they will often simply brush it off, saying go ahead, and then they will delve into the situation and give you some advice. Although if they still manage to sell their products to tourists, then they become more satisfied 
14. In general, the Vietnamese– quite friendly and helpful people. They often look more gloomy than Thais, but when you communicate with them, they begin to smile widely 
15. Vietnam ranks second in coffee production and exports(second to Brazil), and in terms of production and export of robusta - first. In 2012, Vietnam managed to overtake Brazil in total coffee exports, despite the fact that total area the territory of Vietnam is almost 30 times smaller!
16. Coffee shop – this is a place where you can meet representatives of any segment of the local population. Absolutely everyone loves coffee, and is ready to drink it several times a day, sipping sip after sip for hours, at least that’s the impression we got.
17. At the same time, according to coffee consumption per capita, Vietnam is only in 93rd place (considering that Russia occupies 57th place, and the first, unexpectedly, is Finland). About 95% of the coffee grown is exported.
18. Vietnamese coffee– very tasty and aromatic, simply divine drink. We had never been fans of coffee before, but it was in Vietnam that we got hooked on it.
19. Traditional way of brewing coffee– using a special metal filter, which is installed directly on the cup. Ground coffee is placed in it and boiling water is poured, and the finished drink slowly, drop by drop, enters the cup, thus the brewing process is a meditative part of the coffee ritual 
20. The coffee drinking process is also ritualistic.– despite the fact that only a small amount of the drink is strained through such a filter, a real Vietnamese can stretch it out for almost an hour, sipping it in small sips 
21. This type of coffee is usually very strong.. Sometimes they drink it just like that, but more often - with condensed milk (milk/white coffee), and the amount of condensed milk and coffee turns out to be approximately the same 
22. In the southern part of the country, by default, it is assumed that the coffee will be cold, with ice - this is how they are used to drinking it here. Therefore, if you want a hot drink, it is better to clarify this when ordering. Cold coffee is brewed in the same way, just then poured into a glass with ice. 
23. When ordering coffee, Almost everywhere they bring green tea for free. Often - hot in the morning, and cold at lunch, with ice. Oh, how many dirty dishes are left after a very small company)). Guess how many people actually were at this table? 
24. Shops and markets have a large selection of coffee by weight- both in grains and ground, in a wide variety of varieties. There are both pure varieties of Arabica or Robusta, as well as all kinds of mixtures; Luwak is also popular. Prices: 150,000 - 500,000 VND ($7.5-$25) per 1 kg. There is also tea and ground bitter cocoa.
25. As a decoration, on cafe tables, Instead of a vase of flowers, you can often see a pot of green rice sprouts 
26. A typical Asian name for a cheap hotel is “guesthouse.”, which is so common among backpackers, is practically not used here - instead, “motel” is more often used. At the same time, compared to or, for the same money, you can get more decent accommodation here, for example, for $10/day you can rent a room with air conditioning, a refrigerator, a TV, wi-fi, a balcony, towels (which will also be changed every day ), hygiene items (soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes) and flip-flop slippers =) 
27. Flip-flops – in Vietnam it’s not just women, but also slippers (they are also flip-flops, they are also flip-flops). They are so popular here that they are required in almost any hotel/guesthouse, and we most often came across blue ones, apparently this is the general standard. It is very convenient, especially when traveling light, to find flip-flops in your room - we wore them to the beach and took them on excursions to the islands and beaches.
28. Numbers that are called single here(single) are 30% cheaper than double, but are quite suitable for two, because the bed is still a double and all accessories (toothbrushes, towels, flip flops) are presented in duplicate. But this rule does not apply in expensive hotels (4* and 5*).
29. Standard practice when checking into inexpensive hotels- pick up passports and return them only after check-out; apparently, there are cases when guests leave in the morning without paying. Since we are very careful about our passports, we always tried to leave some other ID with a photo (for example, a water permit), but this does not work everywhere. In decent hotels they do not collect passports.
30. Guesthouses are often narrow buildings, one room-room wide, most often with balconies on the front side facing the road. The remaining rooms have windows to the side or no windows at all.
31. Often guesthouses, and houses in general, are built close to each other, so that common walls are obtained. From the outside it even seemed to us that there was one building in front of us, but in fact there were 4 different ones. 
32. At night, motorbikes are driven into the lobby of guesthouses, and even quite decent ones - with marble floors, mirrored walls and antique furniture 
33. Numbering of floors in buildings - as in, The traces of French colonization can be seen here. The lowest floor is ground, and then comes the first, second, etc. With the exception of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, buildings everywhere are mostly low - 4-5 floors, less often 7-8.
34. However, there are several places in Vietnam where you can see the city from above. In Hanoi, we climbed to the SKY72 observation deck on the 72nd floor and a 360-degree panorama of the entire city. In Ho Chi Minh City - on observation deck in the Bitexco Financial Tower building, and in Vung Tao they admired the city and the South China Sea from a statue, just like in Rio de Janeiro.
66. Ticket offices for many natural attractions(waterfalls, parks), they close at 4-5 pm, and daylight hours last until 6, so if you accidentally arrive at the place after the ticket office closes, you can save on entrance tickets - this happened to us a couple of times completely unplanned.
67. In Vietnam you can not only ride the elephants familiar to Asia, but also arrange an ostrich ride.
68. Vietnamese people love to swim, however, they hardly swim, but go waist-deep into the water and splash in the waves, and do this in clothes 
69. They even snorkel with their clothes on, and even in life jackets 
70. Due to the mountainous terrain, the climate in different regions of Vietnam varies significantly. For example, you can swim and sunbathe in Nha Trang, but having driven just 140 kilometers to Dalat, it’s great to freeze - early in the morning and after sunset, the temperature drops to +16.
71. Even at +20 it’s really cold here. When we had to ride a bike in the wind in T-shirts and light jackets, we were cold, we even had a runny nose and a sore throat. In this weather, locals wear warm jackets and hats, and brag their heads in horror when we report that in Russia it can be -20 in winter))
72. Two-toed socks are popular among locals so that even in cold weather you can continue to wear flip-flops instead of closed shoes.
73. In some cities, French architecture, embankments and streets, made us nostalgic for European travel, and Dalat, which is called the Paris of Vietnam, even has its own “Eiffel Tower”. There are flower beds on the streets, the city really resembles in some places 
74. You can often see in cities neatly trimmed lawns, in the form of flowers, boats, teapots, etc.
General information about Vietnam
The official name is the Socialist Republic of Vietnam (SRV). Located in the eastern part of the Indochina Peninsula. Area 331,690 km2, population 80 million people. The official language is Vietnamese. The capital is Hanoi (3.3 million people, 2001). Public Holiday- Independence Day September 2 (since 1945).
Member of the UN (since 1977), ASEAN (since 1995), APEC (since 1998), etc.
Geography of Vietnam
Located between 8°10' and 23°24' north latitude and between 102°09' and 109°30' east longitude. From the east the country is washed by the South China Sea, from the west by the Gulf of Thailand. The length of the sea coast is 3960 km. Vietnam's territory includes islands located in the South China Sea and Gulf of Thailand, incl. part of the Paracel and Spratly Islands. The largest of them (km2): Phu Quoc (568), Cat Ba (180), Con Dao (50).
In the north, Vietnam borders with China (border length - 1300 km), in the west - with Laos (650 km), in the southwest - with Cambodia (930 km). From north to south the country stretches for 1650 km, from east to west: 600 km in the north, 400 km in the south and approx. 50 km in central Vietnam.
The western and interior regions of Vietnam are occupied by the mountains and plateaus of the Yunnan Plateau. The Truong Son ridge stretches from north to south for 1,400 km. A narrow lowland runs along the coast. In the north and south there are two plains formed by the deltas of the Red and Mekong rivers, the area of which is 15 thousand and 40 thousand km2, respectively.
The rivers belong to the South China Sea basin. Their total length is 41 thousand km. Largest rivers(km): Red (1149, in Vietnam 510) and Mekong (4220, in Vietnam 220). The most important lakes (ha): in the south - Darlak (1 thousand), in the north - Baba (500), in Hanoi - Western (466).
The subsoil is rich in minerals: coal, oil, natural gas, iron ore, manganese, copper, etc. The most significant reserves are coal - 12-15 billion tons, apatite - up to 1 billion tons. Real oil reserves are estimated from 2.5 to 3.5 billion tons, natural gas - from 600 to 1200 billion m3. Hydropower resources are estimated at 80 billion kWh.
Land fund 33.2 million hectares. Agricultural lands occupy 7.5 million hectares (21% of the total territory). Four types of soils predominate: red earth and basalt 16 million hectares, alluvial 8.6 million, sierozem 2.5 million, rocky soils high mountainous areas 3.3 million hectares.
The climate is subtropical and subequatorial, formed under the influence of dry northeastern monsoons from mountainous regions and humid southwestern winds from the sea. Summer, when the air flow from the ocean predominates, is the rainy season. Winter, when air currents rush from land to sea, is the dry season. average temperature the warmest month (in the north - June, July, in the south - April) - approx. 29°C; the coldest - from 15°C in the north (January) to 25°C in the south (December). The average annual precipitation in the northern regions is up to 2830 mm, in the southern regions - up to 1600 mm.
There are 289 families, 1,850 genera, and 7,000 plant species in forests; 1000 species of birds, 300 mammals. Along the coastline there are almost 1000 species of fish (catch 600-700 thousand tons per year) and other valuable seafood. 500 thousand tons of salt are produced per year.
Population of Vietnam
According to the 1999 census, the population of Vietnam was 76.3 million people. Compared to the previous 1989 census, the population increased by 11.9 million people. The birth rate in 1989-99 was 1.7%, in 2002 1.31%. Infant mortality 42 people. per 1000 newborns. Average life expectancy (2002) 68.2 years, men 65.5 years, women 70.1 years.
Migration percentage rural population to cities in 1989-99 3.2% annually. In 1999, 23.5% of the country's population lived in cities, in 2002 - 25%. Sex ratio: 51% women and 49% men. The retirement age (only public sector workers in cities) for men is 60 years, for women - 55 years.
Literacy rate - 91% (in 1989-88%).
Vietnam is a multinational country, with 54 nationalities and nationalities living in it. Actually, the Vietnamese (Viet, or Kinh) make up 87% of the population. They live mainly in the deltas of the Red and Mekong rivers, in coastal areas Central Vietnam. The Chinese population in Vietnam is 4%. Of the nationalities, the most numerous are the Tay, Thai, Muong, Hoa, Khmer, Nung - St. 1 million people each. The smallest nationalities - Brau, Roma, Odu - number several hundred people.
The national language is Vietnamese, spoken by St. 90% of the population. Ethnic minorities, while maintaining their own language, use Vietnamese in interethnic communication.
There are 6 officially recognized religions in Vietnam: Buddhism, Catholicism, Protestantism, Islam, Caodaism and Hoa Hao. According to official data, the country has approx. 7.5 million Buddhists, while 85% of the population consider themselves followers of this religion, approx. 5 million Catholics, 500 thousand Protestants, 150-170 thousand Muslims.
History of Vietnam
The oldest state association on the territory of Vietnam arose in 2 thousand BC. In the 3rd century. BC. it was called Aulak. This civilization in the 2nd century. BC. was captured by the Han Empire. In 938, the Vietnamese achieved independence and ended. 10th century formed the independent state of Dayco Viet (Great Ancient Viet), from 1069 - Day Viet (Great Viet).
In the 11th-14th centuries. Dai Viet is one of the largest states in Southeast Asia. In the 13th century Dai Viet was invaded three times by Mongol troops, but the people defended their independence. In the beginning. 15th century The Ming dynasty ruling in China enslaved Dai Viet. As a result of the popular liberation movement (1418-27), the Chinese were expelled from the country. In the 16th-19th centuries. The Vietnamese State is declining and is actually falling into two parts. In the end 18th century The uprising of the rural and urban lower classes under the leadership of the Teishons eliminated the power of the warring feudal factions and removed the Le dynasty from power. In 1786, the Teishons united the country, and in 1789 they defeated the troops of the Qing dynasty. In 1802, the Taishon state fell. The power of a new dynasty was established - Nguyen (1802-1945). In 1804 Dai Viet was renamed Vietnam.
The colonization of Vietnam by France began in 1858 and ended by 1884. The surrender of Japan in 1945 created favorable conditions for the successful implementation of the August Revolution. On September 2, 1945 in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, on behalf of the provisional government, proclaimed the creation Democratic Republic Vietnam (DRV).
In March 1946, France recognized the independence of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam, and in September of the same year launched a colonial war against it, which lasted 8 years until the defeat of French troops near Dien Bien Phu in May 1954.
In accordance with the Geneva Agreements (July 1954), Vietnam was divided into two parts along the Ben Hai River, south of the 17th parallel. In October 1955, the South Vietnamese authorities, in violation of the Geneva agreements on holding general elections, proclaimed the Republic of Vietnam in the south. From that moment on, the United States began to openly interfere in the affairs of Vietnam.
In 1965-73, the US Armed Forces took a direct part in operations against the liberation movement in southern Vietnam and waged an air war against the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. Having failed to achieve the desired results, the United States was forced to sign an agreement in Paris on January 27, 1973 to end the war and restore peace in Vietnam. Having lost American support, the Saigon regime fell in the spring of 1975. On April 30, 1975, Saigon was liberated.
On April 25, 1976, general elections were held to the National Assembly of a united Vietnam, which adopted a decision on July 2, 1976 on the reunification of Vietnam and the creation of Vietnam.
The first steps towards the transition from a centralized economy to a market economy were taken in Vietnam back in 1979. As a strategic course covering almost all spheres of society, the policy of renewal began after the VI Congress of the CPV in 1986.
1980-90s became a period of fundamental qualitative changes in the economic and socio-political development of Vietnam. Violation of traditional economic ties, which followed the collapse of the USSR, as well as stagnation in Vietnam itself, confronted the country with the need to develop its own development strategy.
From the beginning 1990s Vietnam demonstrates strong economic growth at 6-8% per year. Vietnam manages, with varying degrees of success, to solve economic and internal political problems and feels very comfortable in the regional community.
The policy of renewal opened a qualitatively new stage in the life of society. From a semi-feudal and semi-socialist state, Vietnam entered the 21st century. with its own development model and its own ambitions. Currently, Vietnam maintains diplomatic relations with 167 states.
Government structure and political system of Vietnam
Vietnam is a parliamentary republic. The Constitution of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam is in force, adopted on April 15, 1992, the fourth after the 2nd World War (1946, 1959, 1980).
Currently, there are 57 provinces in Vietnam, four cities of central subordination (million people): Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City (over 5), Haiphong (1.7) and Da Nang (0.7).
Vietnam's political system is defined in the preamble of the Constitution: "The Party leads, the people rule, the State governs." The Communist Party of Vietnam is the only party holding a leading position in political system countries.
Relying on the authority of the ruling party since 1945, the leadership of the CPV at the VI Congress in 1986 initiated radical changes, proclaiming a policy of “renewal”. Currently, the CPV has St. 2 million people General Secretary of the CPV Central Committee - Nong Duc Manh, elected at the IX Congress of the CPV in April 2001.
Principle government controlled is revealed in the Constitution: “All power in the country belongs to the people, who exercise it through the National Assembly, People's Councils at all levels, elected by the people and responsible to them.”
The National Assembly (NA) is a unicameral highest representative body that exercises legislative power, decides the main issues of domestic and foreign policy of the state, and exercises supreme control over the activities of all state bodies. Elects from among the deputies the Standing Committee, the President and Vice-President, the Council of Ministers (government), the Chairman of the Supreme People's Court, and the Prosecutor General of the Supreme People's Prosecutor's Office. Consists of 498 deputies elected from administrative-territorial units and from socio-political organizations and unions. Elected for 5 years, its sessions are held 2 times a year. More than 90% of NA deputies are members of the Communist Party of Poland.
All citizens of Vietnam who have reached the age of 18 have the right to vote, and from the age of 21 - to be elected to the National Assembly. At the 1st session of the 11th convocation (July 2002), Nguyen Van An was elected Chairman of the National Assembly.
The Standing Committee of the National Assembly (SC NS) is a body that constantly operates between sessions of the NS.
The President of Vietnam is the head of state and represents Vietnam in the international arena. He is elected by the National Assembly for 5 years from among the deputies, and is responsible and accountable to the National Assembly. Promulgates legislative acts and gives them interpretation, proposes to the National Assembly the candidacies of the vice-president, the chairman of the government, the chairman of the Supreme People's Court and the prosecutor general. In accordance with the decision of the National Assembly or the PC, the National Assembly declares martial law, general or partial mobilization, etc. The President exercises overall command of the Armed Forces and heads the National Defense and Security Council. The President of Vietnam, Tran Duc Luong, was elected to this post in September 1997 and re-elected in July 2002.
The Council of Ministers is the government of Vietnam, the highest executive and administrative body of state power. Accountable to the National Assembly, and in the intervals between sessions - to the Standing Committee of the National Assembly and the President of Vietnam. The government includes 20 ministries and 6 government agencies with the status of ministries. The term of office of the head of government is 5 years. Chairman of the Council of Ministers of Vietnam - Phan Van Khai - elected in September 1997, re-elected in July 2002.
The local government system is consistent administrative division countries. Each administrative unit has a government body elected by the local population - the People's Council. Term of office of the People's Councils of provinces and cities
central subordination and equivalent administrative units - 4 years. The term of office of the remaining councils is 2 years. The executive bodies of the People's Councils and local administrative authorities are the People's Committees.
In general, the political system can be characterized as a party-state system. All legislative, executive and judicial bodies function under the leadership of the CPV.
The Fatherland Front of Vietnam (created in 1977) unites all social and political organizations of Vietnam, as well as associations of Vietnamese living abroad. It includes: the CPV, the Federation of Trade Unions, the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, the Vietnamese Women's Federation, etc.
The main objective of Vietnam's foreign policy is declared to be the creation of favorable external conditions for socio-economic development and the implementation of a course towards the transition to a market economy. It is built on the principles of independence, measured openness, involvement in the activities of regional structures and multilateral organizations, balanced relations with leading powers and world political and economic centers.
Since 1995, Vietnam has been actively involved in ASEAN activities and has been the author of initiatives that have received the support of ASEAN members. In particular, he proposed the Asia-Europe Dialogue Program (ASEM) and successfully held the ASEAN Summit in Hanoi in December 1998, during which the Hanoi Declaration and the Hanoi Plan of Action were adopted. Vietnam and other ASEAN countries have prepared a “code of conduct” in the South China Sea region and entered into negotiations with the PRC to sign this document.
Vietnamese-Chinese relations were normalized in November 1991. The leadership of Vietnam and the People's Republic of China are of the opinion that the armed clashes of 1979 should not be repeated under any circumstances. On October 19, 1993, an agreement was concluded on the principles of resolving border disputes, of which the most important are: guidance by international law, renunciation of the use of force and unilateral actions. In accordance with the agreement, a demarcation agreement was signed in December 1999 land border. In December 2000, the countries entered into an Agreement on Boundary Delimitation in the Gulf of Tonkin and on Fisheries.
Vietnamese-American relations are becoming increasingly intense. Vietnam regards the active participation of the United States in regional affairs as a positive factor, which is a reflection of the existing balance of power in the Asia-Pacific region. In July 2000, a trade and economic agreement was signed with the United States (ratified in late 2001), providing for the provision of most favored nation treatment to Vietnam.
In September 2000, the Prime Minister of Vietnam Phan Van Khai made an official visit to the Russian Federation. A package of agreements was signed on the payment by Vietnam of a debt to Russia in the amount of $1.7 billion over 23 years on the principles of the Paris Club of creditors. An important event in Vietnamese-Russian relations was the visit to Vietnam of Russian President V.V. Putin in March 2001. The heads of countries signed the Declaration on the Strategic Partnership between Vietnam and the Russian Federation.
Emphasis in the construction of modern Armed Forces Vietnam is focused on creating small, well-equipped and trained regular forces, a large strategic reserve and a contingent of paramilitary forces. The share of military spending in GDP fell from 17% in 1990 to about 6% in 2002. In absolute terms, military spending fell from $2.5 billion in 1990 to $1.8 billion in 2001. The policy has been in place since 1985 reduction in the total number of the army. In 1985 it numbered 1260 thousand people, in 2001 - 484 thousand people. (Ground forces 412 thousand, Air Force 30 thousand, Air Defense 15 thousand, Navy 42 thousand). The number of strategic reserves (people's self-defense forces and people's militia, coast guard) is estimated at 4-5 million people.
Vietnam has had diplomatic relations with the Russian Federation since 1991 (established with the USSR in 1950).
Economy of Vietnam
GDP in 2002 grew by 7.2% (6.8% in 2001, 6.6% - average annual growth for 1990-2002) and amounted to 35.28 billion US dollars (in 2001 - 32 billion). GDP per capita US$441. Gold and foreign exchange reserves 2.1 billion US dollars (2000). Working population: 40 million people. The unemployment rate in the country as a whole is 6.13%, in rural areas - approx. 5.5% (2001).
In the structure of GDP, there is a general trend towards a decrease in the share of agricultural production and growth in industry and services: agriculture 22.99%, industry and capital construction 38.55%, services sector 38.46%. The public sector in the GDP structure is 40%, non-state 47%, foreign investment sector 13% (2001).
Vietnam was the only country in Southeast Asia to emerge unscathed from the 2001 recession, largely due to rising domestic consumption. GDP growth in 2002 was also determined by this factor. Investment, especially in the private sector, boomed and was equivalent to 1/3 of GDP. The number of new private enterprises increased by 17% to 20 thousand, and the total number was 60 thousand. Investments in new small and medium-sized enterprises in the private sector reached $2.7 billion.
The main driver of development was the industrial sector, with growth of 14.4% per year due to expanding demand for consumer goods. The apparel industry is booming due to duty-free access to the US market. Growth was also driven by increased local private and foreign investment, while public sector investment remained constant.
Inflation, according to official Vietnamese data, was 4%, according to the World Bank - 8% (2002).
Industry is the most dynamically developing sector of the national economy. In 2001, the increase was 15.4% in the public sector (central state enterprises - 13.1%, local industry - 11.8%), in joint ventures with foreign capital 20.3%, in the industry of key economic regions 12.1 %. The sector's focus is on manufacturing, consumer goods and export goods.
K con. 1990s the number of state-owned enterprises decreased from more than 12 thousand to 5.8 thousand. This process continues to this day. Of the total number of state-owned enterprises in 2002, 3,000 were unprofitable.
The pace of development of agricultural production, including forestry and fishing, remains at a stable level. In 2002 they amounted to approx. 5%, in fishing and seafood production - 14%. The most important food crop is rice, which is harvested 2-3 times a year. Vietnam not only fully meets its needs for rice, but is also one of its largest exporters (after Thailand and the USA).
The basis for the stable development of this industry is that individual peasant farms have been providing 95% of the industry’s output in recent years. In 2001, food production exceeded 30 million tons.
Highways number approx. 60 thousand km, including: state highways - 12 thousand km, interprovincial roads - 15 thousand km and interdistrict roads - 25 thousand km. 25% of state highways are paved. The main highway - Highway No. 1 (2300 km) runs from the northern border with the PRC to Cape Kamau - the most extreme point in the south of the country.
K con. 1990s the length of railway lines exceeded 4 thousand km. The main North-South highway (length 2000 km). The Hanoi-Beijing railway route has been restored. Preparations are underway for the opening international route"Vietnam - China - Mongolia - Russia."
The country has more than 40 thousand large and small navigable rivers and canals. There are 17 ports on the sea coast. The largest are Haiphong, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang and Cam Ranh. Almost 1/2 of maritime cargo traffic passes through Haiphong.
Large state and foreign investments were made in modernization civil aviation. The air fleet serves 17 domestic routes with a length of 62.5 thousand km. The main volume of traffic falls on the Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh City route. Functioning 3 international airport: Noi Bai in Hanoi, Tan Son Nhat in Ho Chi Minh City and Phu Bai in Thua Thien Hue. Flights from these airports operate mainly to countries in Southeast Asia, as well as to Europe. In 2002, an agreement was reached between Vietnam and the United States to establish the Ho Chi Minh City - San Francisco - Ho Chi Minh City air route.
Modern communications in the country are represented by 2 ground stations space communications "Lotos-1" and
"Lotos-2", providing telegraph, telephone and teletype communications with 56 countries of the world.
New communication services such as facsimile, Cell phones, paging, e-mail, network of urgent domestic and international information. In 1999, there were 3.2 telephones per 100 residents of Vietnam; in 2002, this figure increased to 4.25.
The service sector grew by 12% in 2002. Here the main attention is focused on the development of the transport industry, means of communication, trade, tourism, banks, technology, and the legal framework. Passenger transportation volumes increased by 4.6%; cargo transportation grew by 7.2%.
In 2000, trade accounted for 75.2 thousand billion dong (share in the service sector - 71%, growth - 7.4%), the hotel and restaurant business - 12.8 thousand billion dong (share - 12.1%, growth - 12.2%), for tourism and service enterprises - 6.2 thousand billion dong (share - 5.9%, growth - 10.7%).
For various reasons, the tourism business in the country is developing slowly. In 2001, 2.33 million visited the country foreign citizens(in 2000 - 2.14 million), incl. 1.319 million tourists, 439.7 thousand people. on a business visit, 478.6 thousand people. to visit relatives and 93.5 thousand people. for other purposes.
In the monetary system, the leading role is played by the State Bank of Vietnam and St. 60 state-owned commercial banks. These are Vietcombank, servicing export-import financial flows, Industrial and Commercial Bank, specializing in lending to industrial and commercial enterprises, Agricultural Bank, financing the agricultural sector, Investment and Development Bank (Vietindebank), lending long-term investment projects, and a number of others. The banking system also includes other joint-stock commercial banks. In general, state-owned banks control 80% of the country's financial market, 12% are accounted for by “semi-autonomous” financial institutions (joint and private), and the remaining 8% are banks with foreign participation.
Currently there are 4 joint banks, approx. 60 representative offices and 20 branches of 50 largest foreign banks and financial organizations. Vietnam maintains business contacts with the World Bank, IMF, ADB, etc. Leading financial institutions have their representative offices in foreign countries. All R. 2002 The first representative offices of Vietcombank and Vietindebank were opened in the United States.
The state budget in 2002 was executed in terms of revenues of 19.94% of GDP, in terms of expenses - 22.47%, deficit - 2.53%. Domestic investment in the economy amounted to 66.7% (in 2000 - 82%), foreign investment - 33.3%. Of domestic capital investments: 56.8% are public, 43.2% are mixed and private. The country's external debt is $13.3 billion (or 37% of GDP). According to IMF criteria, Vietnam is considered a creditworthy payer.
The dong was devalued in 2002. The dong exchange rate is 15,400 dong to 1 US dollar.
The influx of annual foreign direct investment amounted to 2.2 billion US dollars, incl. $1.6 billion for the construction of small and medium-sized industrial facilities. To the beginning 2002, 3044 joint projects with foreign participation and an authorized capital of 37.6 billion US dollars were registered, incl. 1,459 projects with a capital of $20.6 billion have been implemented, 769 projects ($11.1 billion) are in the process of implementation. During this time, 399 thousand jobs were created.
The official development assistance program continues to be implemented. In 2002, within its framework, loans worth $2.4 billion were allocated to boost the economy, improve the standard of living of the population and fight poverty. The total amount allocated for this program since 1993 has reached $20 billion, half of which has been used.
Despite Vietnam's obvious successes in economic modernization in 2002, increased standard of living and income growth is slow. Wages for public sector workers remain low - 210 thousand VND per month (approx. 14 dollars). Since January 2003, it was increased to 290 thousand. Average income per capita amounted to 331 thousand dong per month (an increase of 12% compared to 1999). According to the State Bank of Vietnam, the total savings of the population amount to approx. 30 trillion dong. The poverty level in 2002 was 32% of the total population and 10% below the absolute poverty line, 90% of the population with minimal income lives in rural areas.
Increasing foreign economic activity is one of the most important priorities of the Vietnamese leadership.
Vietnam's exports in 2002 amounted to 16.53 billion US dollars (in 2001 - 13.596 billion). Main export goods (%): oil (share of total exports 20), garments (16), seafood (12), shoes (11), rice (4), coffee (2), other goods (35). The growth in exports was achieved due to an increase in the export volumes of rubber, handicrafts, seafood, clothing and footwear. There has been a noticeable reduction in supplies of oil, rice, vegetables and electronics abroad. Exports were sent (%) to: Japan (15), USA (15), China (9), Australia (8), Singapore (6), Taiwan (5), Germany (4), South Korea, Great Britain, France (3 each), to other countries (29).
Imports in 2002 amounted to 19.3 billion US dollars (16.816 billion in 2001), the foreign trade deficit was 2.77 billion dollars. Main imported goods (%): machinery and machines (19), fuels and lubricants (10), fabrics ( 9), rolled steel (7), clothing (5), cars, electrical equipment, fertilizers (2 each), other goods (44).
Labor exports in 2002 amounted to approx. 50 thousand people per year, mainly to Malaysia (approx. 30 thousand), South Korea, Japan, Taiwan and the Middle East.
Vietnam's flexible approach to the entire range of relations with China made it possible to restore mutually beneficial trade and economic relations with this country. Currently, China's investments in Vietnam are carried out in 41 projects with a total value of $70 million. Trade turnover in 2002 amounted to 3.5 billion US dollars (in 2001 - 2.8 billion). During the visit of Chinese President Jiang Zemin to Hanoi in February 2002, the parties expressed their intention to increase trade turnover between the countries in 2005 to $5 billion.
Trade and economic relations with Japan are developing successfully. This country provided Vietnam with $8.2 billion in official development assistance in 1992-2002. Japan also remains a key trading partner of B. In 2002, trade turnover between the countries reached $5 billion.
The ratification of the trade agreement with the United States in December 2001 was of fundamental importance for the expansion of foreign investment and foreign trade of Vietnam. The foreign trade turnover of the two countries in 2002, according to preliminary data, amounted to approx. $2.5 billion. Exports to the United States doubled in 2001-02, reaching $2 billion per year. At the same time, the export of garments increased 18 times. The USA is becoming the largest market for Vietnamese goods: in the first two months of 2003, exports to the USA reached $590 million, i.e. increased by 350% compared to the same period in 2002. The volume of American investments is estimated at approximately $1 billion. They are concentrated mainly in industrial production, real estate, and oil and gas development. The industrial and hospitality sectors account for 82% of all US investments and 37 ongoing projects.
Trade turnover between the Russian Federation and Vietnam in 2002 amounted to approx. $500 million. The basis of economic cooperation between the two countries is the sphere of fuel energy and arms supplies. The Russian Federation ranks 8th among more than 60 investor countries. An example of successful cooperation is the activities of the Vietsovpetro joint venture on the Vietnamese shelf.
Currently, Vietnam maintains trade and economic relations with 100 foreign countries, St. 60 foreign companies have their representative offices here.
Science and culture of Vietnam
Vietnam is carrying out profound transformations in the field of education and science. Fundamental changes in these areas, according to the Vietnamese leadership, will help Vietnam achieve its strategic goals - to modernize the country, integrate world economy and become a full member of the world community.
A radical restructuring of the education system is underway, both in form and content. Paid education is being introduced in secondary and higher public schools, and the creation of private schools and universities, centers and courses for the training and retraining of management personnel is being stimulated. There is a process of “commercialization” and “marketization” in educational programs middle and high schools.
Currently there are approx. 16 thousand primary and secondary schools, in which 19.9 million schoolchildren studied in the 2001/02 school year. In addition, there are more than 700 specialized schools and colleges (2 million students), 247 vocational schools and technical schools (about 200 thousand students). In Vietnam approx. 100 universities (6 private), where they train in 200 specialties (650 thousand students).
There are 170 research and development bureaus employing 30 thousand scientists. Here the emphasis is on studying leading branches of science, such as high technology, computer science, biology, and new materials.
The country has established the National Center for Natural Sciences and Technology and the National Center for Social Sciences and Humanities. In 1996, the first “Vietnamese Encyclopedia” was published, including almost 40 thousand articles prepared by the efforts of 1,300 Vietnamese and foreign scientists.
Nowadays in Vietnam there is St. 6 thousand doctors and candidates of science, 1.27 million graduates of institutes and colleges and 14 thousand people. with postgraduate education.
The distinctive national culture has a rich heritage with centuries-old traditions- festivals, music, dance, folklore, theater, fine arts, etc. Nowadays, perceiving the riches of modern world culture, it acquires new content and national flavor.
Vietnamese theater includes traditional genres such as Teo (folk theatre), Tuong (classical theatre), Cail Luong (renovated theatre) and Ca Hue (Hue songs). These genres harmoniously combine music, singing, recitative, recitation, dance and facial expressions. The modern genre of kit noi (drama theater) is of European origin, but it is filled with national content and has firmly entered into cultural life society.
There are 2,446 public libraries and reading rooms in the country with 17.2 million copies. books. Average attendance - 15 million people. in year.
After the restoration of peace in 1954, the History Museum, the Revolution Museum and the Army Museum were established in Hanoi. The Museum of Fine Arts was opened in 1965. On May 19, 1990, the Ho Chi Minh Museum was opened to mark the centenary of the birth of the first Vietnamese president. There are also the Oceanological Museum in Nha Trang, the Cham Museum in Quang Nam Province and the Museum of Ethnology in Hanoi. In total, there are 285 museums and exhibition centers in the country. International organizations contributed $420,000 to help preserve and restore Hanoi's ancient streets, the mausoleums of the last Nguyen dynasty emperors in Hue and the ancient city of Hoi An.
Wood carving, lacquer, silk and oil painting, rice straw products and handicrafts remain very popular in Vietnam. The most ancient form of Vietnamese painting is lubok - paintings painted with water paints on silk or specially treated paper. Hanoi luboks are made by contour printing from wooden cliches followed by coloring.
The earliest works of literature that have reached us date back to the 10th century. For many centuries, two literatures developed in parallel in the country, one based on Chinese, which was then the literary language, the other in Tynoma - the transcribed national language. Liquidation at the beginning 20th century the traditional education system, the replacement of hieroglyphs with Latinized Vietnamese writing, and the development of printing created the conditions for the birth of modern Vietnamese literature.
In 1945-75, Vietnamese literature mainly focused on glorifying the heroism of the people and mobilizing the masses to fight against external aggression and for national reunification. After 1986, literature reflects the course of the country's renewal. The stories, novellas and novels cover previously forbidden subjects about losses and casualties in war, about the negative phenomena of modern Everyday life such as corruption, dishonesty, waste. Such works attract the attention of readers at home and abroad. Many of them have been translated into English, French, Chinese, Russian, Japanese and other languages.
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Vietnam is a state in Southeast Asia occupying eastern part Indochinese Peninsula. Borders with China, Laos, Cambodia. Washed by the South China Sea. Vietnam includes the islands of Con Dao, Phu Coc, etc.
Most of the territory is occupied by mountains, up to 3143 m high, on the lowland coast - mainly in the lower reaches of the Hong Ha River delta (in the north of the country) and the Mekong River (in the south of the country).
State
State structure
Parliamentary republic with a one-party system.
Language
Official language: Vietnamese
In the tourism sector, French and English are spoken.
Religion
Main religions: Buddhism (55%), Catholicism (7%).
Currency
International name: VND
Banknotes: 200, 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000; the coins are not in circulation. The most popular currency is the American dollar, it is accepted for payment everywhere. When paying by traveler's checks, as well as VISA, Master, JCB credit cards, a commission fee is charged.
History of Vietnam
Between 1860 and 1880, Vietnam was colonized by the French, who built industrial plants in the cities and began growing rubber plantations. French rule came to an end in 1954, when communist guerrilla forces captured the north of the country, and it split into North and South Vietnam. In 1956, the United States military sided with the South Vietnamese against the communists of North Vietnam. The armed conflict escalated into a fierce war. The South Vietnamese government was overthrown in 1975. American troops left the country, and in 1976, South Vietnam and North Vietnam were united. The country's economy suffered greatly as a result of the war and the political isolation caused by the war. However, in the post-war years, much was done to restore the destroyed economy.
Popular attractions
Tourism in Vietnam
Where to stay
Vietnam is becoming increasingly popular among tourists all over the world. This is what has recently given rise to the emergence of an increasing number of hotels in the country. There is no official grading of hotels in this country, however, for greater convenience, in Vietnam they use the generally accepted five-star system.
If you prefer high service and comfort, stay in one of the hotels of global chains, since in other hotels the declared service does not always correspond to the real one. In the south of the country you can find both small family hotels with good service and upscale hotels. It is worth booking a room in advance, as there is a large influx of tourists during the season. But during the rainy season, you will not only quickly find a free room, but also the cost of living will be much lower.
Central and northern Vietnam is not so touristically developed, however, here you can also find small cottages, bungalows or stay in one of the guest houses. Breakfast, as a rule, is not included in the price, but numerous cafes and restaurants around the hotels will help solve the problem of food.
It is worth considering that the so-called guest houses or hotels in small towns are more suitable for those who love Spartan living conditions and complete immersion in the traditional life of the country. So, here you will be greeted by a mattress on the floor instead of a bed, curtains in the room as a dividing partition from neighbors, and possible interruptions in water and electricity. However local flavor and the hospitality of the Vietnamese will more than compensate for all the inconveniences.
If you decide to rent your own accommodation on the spot, in any of the towns you can find budget hotels or rent a room from private owners. Budget hotels offer quite acceptable service at a low cost.
Popular hotels
Excursions and attractions in Vietnam
Vietnam is famous for its magnificent nature, excellent sandy beaches, rich in culture, beautiful ancient temples and traditional cuisine. Tourism in Vietnam is developing at a very fast pace and today offers travelers a huge selection of comfortable hotels for every taste and an interesting excursion program.
Capital of Vietnam - ancient city Hanoi - political, economic and Cultural Center countries. Wide European avenues with modern skyscrapers exist perfectly next to old quarters with narrow streets and colonial-style buildings. Undoubtedly, the beauty and pride of the city are the ancient temples. Among the most famous sights of Hanoi are the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Chua Mot Kot Pagoda (“Pillar Pagoda”, 1049), Tai Pagoda (Pagoda of the Masters, 11th century), Bach Ma Temple (“Temple of the White Horse”, IX century), Tran Quoc Pagoda (VI century), Quan Thanh Temple (XI century), Temple of Literature (Van Mieu 1070), Cathedral of St. Joseph (Hanoi Cathedral, 1886) and Opera theatre. Also of interest are the Vietnamese Museum of Ethnology, the Museum fine arts, Vietnamese Army Museum, History Museum and Revolution Museum. Numerous lakes give the city a special charm, among which the most famous are Western Lake (the most big lake cities with numerous temples on the shores) and the Lake of the “returned sword”, also known as Hoan Kiem. In the center of Hoan Kiem Lake there is a tower called the “Temple of the Turtle” (Thuap Rua). Nearby, on a small island that is connected to the shore by the red Teh Huc Bridge, is the Temple of the Jade Mountain (Den Ngoc Son). Not far from Hanoi there is also ancient capital Vietnam Hoa Lu where you can visit ancient temple Deng Dinh.
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is the largest city in the country, which, despite rapid development and widespread construction, has not yet lost its special flavor. Its green, shady alleys and streets with elegant houses built by the French, as well as pagodas, mosques and Hindu temples create a unique atmosphere. The most famous attractions of the city are the Jade Emperor Pagoda, Notre Dame de Saigon Cathedral, Zach Vien Pagoda, Municipal Theater and the Museum of Military History. Ho Chi Minh City has a beautiful Botanical Garden, which today is a favorite vacation spot for citizens and tourists. At some distance from the city there are two excellent water parks, Saigon and Vietnam.
An important historical, cultural and religious center of the country is Hue - the capital of the last emperors of the Nguyen dynasty. Here you can visit the Tombs of Emperors Minh Man and Tu Duc, the Forbidden Purple City, Tay Hoa Palace (Palace of Supreme Harmony), Thien Mu Pagoda, the Emperor's Museum, the Cathedral of Our Savior and the Citadel with imperial city, which is in some ways a copy of the Beijing Forbidden City.
One of the most popular places Vietnam – picturesque bay Halong, which has more than 3,000 islands. On one of the islands, called Tuan Chau, there was previously a summer residence of Ho Chi Minh. The bay is also famous for its grottoes and caves of stunning beauty and a wide variety of shapes and sizes.
Vietnamese cuisine
Over the centuries, Vietnamese cuisine has been influenced by Chinese and Indian cuisines, but still retains its unique blend of harmonious flavors and colors.
As in most Asian cuisines, grain products are central to Vietnamese cuisine. Rice, the most important grain, is served as a side dish for many dishes. And rice flour is used to make noodles and rice paper. Rice noodles - like wheat noodles - are very popular throughout Vietnam. Vietnamese people often eat more than one noodle dish per day. Rice paper is used to make rolls that are served with a dipping sauce.
Vegetables often used include cabbage, garlic, green onions, carrots, sweet and chili peppers, tomatoes, bamboo shoots, green lettuce, cucumbers, celery and mushrooms. These vegetables are made into soups, added to noodles, added to stir-fries and curries, wrapped in rice paper, or served as a side dish or salad.
Common fruits include mangoes, pineapples, melons, lychees and tangerines, which are served as an appetizer or dessert, or added to savory dishes for contrast.
Beans, peas and lentils are often consumed in Vietnam. Tofu (bean curd), which is made from soybeans, is used in many traditional dishes. Bean sprouts and young pea pods are also common accompaniments to food.
Peanuts are often ground into a paste and added to goulash, soups, and noodle dishes; or it is crushed and sprinkled on top of the dish at the end of cooking.
Sesame seeds are used to make aromatic sesame oil, which is sprinkled on prepared dishes to add extra flavor.
Since Vietnam borders the ocean, and also thanks to extensive system rivers, fish and seafood are one of the foundations of Vietnamese cuisine. Shrimp, crab, squid, mussels and numerous types of fish are used in many dishes. Noodle soups, stir-fries, rice dishes, coconut milk curries, baked dishes and rice paper rolls often include seafood and fish.
Beef is consumed sparingly in Vietnam. Pork is much more popular, but it is not eaten as much. When meat is used, it lasts a long time, such as in the popular Vietnamese beef and rice noodle soup Pho bo, which uses paper-thin pieces of beef.
Poultry, such as chicken, is used regularly in both hot and cold dishes, such as salads. Eggs are not eaten very often.
Northern Vietnamese cuisine (northern Vietnam borders China) often uses soy sauce, but it is rarely used in central and southern Vietnam, where fish sauce (nouc mam) is more common. Fish sauce is made from fermented fish and is used as a seasoning in many dishes, and is also used to make other sauces, such as nuoc cham.
Fresh herbs are another important component of Vietnamese cuisine; they are finely chopped or simply torn into pieces and added at the end of cooking to enhance the taste. The most common are cilantro (coriander), mint and basil.
Chili and ground black pepper are added to dishes to add spiciness. Sometimes thinly sliced chilies are added as an edible garnish. Other important spices and seasonings in Vietnamese cuisine include garlic, lemongrass, ginger, vinegar, five-spice powder, hoisin sauce, and the juice of lemons and limes.
Over the centuries, Vietnamese cuisine has been influenced by Chinese and Indian cuisines, but still retains its unique blend of harmonious flavors and colors. ...
Visa
Purchases
There are a lot of joint ventures in Vietnam that produce products for export. For example, branches of Nike and Adidas sportswear factories sell their products on the local market three to four times cheaper than in Russia.
Souvenirs
Silverware.
Medicine
It is not recommended to drink tap water. You can safely order drinks with ice at major cities and hotels in Saigon, Hanoi, Nha Trang, Da Nang, because the ice is prepared in accordance with hygienic standards. In rural areas, you should not order drinks with ice, as it may be made from river water.
Safety
Vietnam is one of the ten safest countries in Eurasia. You should only be wary of petty thieves and the importunity of merchants.
Questions and feedback about Vietnam
Nha Trang - Questions and Answers
Ha Long Bay - Questions and Answers
Ha Long Bay - Questions and Answers
Ha Long Bay - Questions and Answers
Ha Long Bay - Questions and Answers
