Once again with Sachin this time for some travel tips related with Vietnam. I totally agree with you on the tip about the food, the "tourist version" of the countries food is in fact a common situation to many, many tourism places...
For many people, the word Vietnam immediately conjures images of war, and it is true that the conflict, which took place as recently as the 1970s, still has a powerful influence over the land and its people. But there is much more to Vietnam than that. A plane ticket, a visa, a little cash and some cheap travel insurance are all you really need to explore Vietnam, but we've put together a few tips that will help you get the most from your adventure in this beautiful land.
Avoid 'foreigner food'
Many tourists visit Vietnam with (rightly) high expectations of the local cuisine, but some, sadly, come back disappointed. The problem is not with Vietnamese cuisine, but with the fact that that haven't really experienced it. In tourist areas many of the restaurants alter their menus to cater for what they think that tourists want. This often means watered down versions of Vietnamese food or generic 'Asian' dishes. Make the effort to seek out restaurants that cater primarily to locals, however, and you will find the real Vietnamese cuisine every bit as enchanting as you had hoped.
People watch
There are many great sights and attractions in Vietnam, but little that is as rewarding as simply watching the world go by. Find yourself a pavement bar or café, preferably at a busy road junction, and settle down with an ice-cold beer on one of the ubiquitous tiny plastic chairs. 'People watching' is fascinating at any time, but more so in a culture that is different from your own. As well as getting an insight into some of the similarities and differences between your own life and that of the Vietnamese people, you will see some remarkable sights. Was that really a live pig on the back of that motorbike? And did you really see an entire family of five people on that one?
Be inquisitive but respectful
The Vietnam War is fundamental to the country's tourism, and it is alright to be curious about it, but this bloody part of history is still painfully recent so it is important to be respectful. Many people are keen to talk about their experiences and you should take every opportunity available to learn from people who experienced this important part of global history first hand. But let them raise the subject and only then encourage them to talk. Don't put them on the spot with too many direct questions.
Get off the beaten track
It might sound like little more than a cliché, but in Vietnam getting off the beaten track really makes a difference. Tourism is very well catered for in Vietnam as long as you follow certain pre-ordained routes. There is nothing wrong with that -- it means that it is easy to travel cheaply, efficiently and safely -- but it can leave the impression that you are only seeing part of the story. One way of breaking free from these constraints is to hire a private motorcycle guide to show you the country away from the usual tourist trails. Of course you need to be mindful of any increased risks as soon as you head off the beaten track so make sure you have suitable travel insurance.
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