Strung on a network of rivers between the mountains and the sea, Vietnam is a landscape of moody alpine fogs hovering over thatch-roofed villages nestled in forests of rain. Vast expanses of reflective paddy fields posturing rice stands through which gentle breezes eddy. Lacework deltas fretted with canals carrying fertile mud recently arrived from China, and boiling white beaches guarded by island sentinels

TOP PICKS:

1 Kayak Halong Bay
Explore hidden caves and secret lagoons among the limestone peaks of Halong Bay using paddle power - one of Vietnam's many activities for adrenalin junkies. Get deals for 3 days to non-touristy Bai Tu Long Bay from US$ 250 on Dragon Pearl Junk

2 Hit the beach at Nha Trang
Lap up the beach culture, and decide for yourself if this heavyweight champion deserves its place on our best beaches list. See guides for Nha Trang on NhaTrang Guides

3 Tantalise your tastebuds in Hoi An
Try a modern spin on traditional Vietnamese cuisine at Mango Rooms in historic Hoi An

4 Have a Hanoi art attack
Head straight to our faves: Apricot Gallery and Mai Tai Gallery in the Old Quarter, the Oriental Gallery in the Nha Tao Area, Dong Phong Art Gallery in the French Quarter, and perhaps the best in Hanoi: Art Vietnam in the West Lake area.

5 Karst your eye over Phong Nha Cave
Go underground and explore the nooks and crannies of Phong Nha Cave in Quang Binh, the largest and most stunning cave in the country.