When it comes to rest and relaxation in Vietnam, you cannot go wrong with Hoi An. This town in the central region is considered Vietnam's cultural capital and gives new meaning to the word 'charming.' Here, a well-planned day of adventures will be no more taxing than strolling along pedestrianized alleys admiring the ancient architecture, enjoying long lunches beside the river, and maybe doing a spot of shopping. Grand hotels line the picturesque riverside and a quiet stretch of beach nearby, giving way to a patchwork of rice terraces and then those famous Hoi An alleyways lined with ochre yellow colonial buildings. Cozy cafes have set up shop in the crumbling old buildings, alongside Hoi An silk shops, and restaurants specializing in traditional fare. Above it all hang the colorful lanterns that have become synonymous with the city, casting a romantic glow over any vacation. Hoi An is one of those destinations that calls you to stop, sit down, and soak it all in, cà phê sữa đá (iced milk coffee) in hand. Whether you spend most of your time on the beach, the riverside, or in the heart of the Ancient Town, let the calm energy of Hoi An get under your skin.

The jewel in Vietnam's rather small island crown, Con Dao is also the king of classic vacation destinations in Vietnam. An archipelago of 15 islands, this special place is paradise in every sense of the word. Travel here for postcard-perfect white-sand beaches, luxurious resorts, and a slower pace of travel. Being an island destination, a visit to Con Dao revolves around the ocean. Whether you take the boat from Vung Tau or fly from Saigon, your first impression will be that great expanse of glittering blue. From lounging in its shallows to diving its depths, and sampling the abundant seafood brought in by local fisherman, the seas around the islands have so much to offer. On land, you could be forgiven for never leaving your beachfront lodgings. But, step into the interior to discover the rich nature and long history of these remote Vietnamese islands.