Visiting Vietnam? Give these overrated tourist spots a miss
What's the story
Vietnam is a beautiful country with rich culture and history, but some tourist spots are more popular than they deserve. These places can be overcrowded and expensive, leaving visitors disappointed. In this article, we take a look at some of these overrated destinations and suggest more authentic experiences. These showcase Vietnam's true charm without the crowds.
#1
Ha Long Bay's crowded cruises
Although Ha Long Bay is famous for its emerald waters and limestone islands, its cruises are often overcrowded. Tourists find themselves packed onto boats with little room to enjoy the scenery. The experience can be marred by noise and limited interaction with the natural surroundings. For those looking for a quieter experience, consider visiting Lan Ha Bay instead. It offers similar beauty with fewer tourists.
#2
Hoi An's tourist traps
While Hoi An's ancient town is famous for its well-preserved architecture, it has also become a hotspot for tourist traps. From overpriced souvenirs to inflated prices in restaurants, visitors may find it hard to find genuine local experiences. To avoid these pitfalls, explore nearby villages or take part in local workshops that give you an authentic taste of Vietnamese culture without breaking the bank.
#3
Phong Nha Cave's long waits
Phong Nha Cave is famous for its stunning rock formations and underground rivers, but long wait times can ruin the adventure. The cave sees a lot of visitors during peak seasons, leading to long lines and less time spent exploring its depths. Instead of Phong Nha, you can visit nearby caves like Paradise Cave or Dark Cave, which offer similar wonders but with fewer crowds.
#4
Mekong Delta's commercialized tours
The Mekong Delta is famous for its lush landscapes and vibrant local life, but many tours are commercialized and lack authenticity. Tourists often find themselves herded through scripted visits with little opportunity to engage meaningfully with local communities. For a more immersive experience, consider traveling independently by renting a bicycle or motorbike to explore the delta's backroads at your own pace.