Exploring the Timeless Charm of Vietnam: Top 10 Things to Do
Introduction
Vietnam, a country that beautifully blends its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, has become an increasingly popular travel destination in recent years. With its diverse regions offering a plethora of experiences, Vietnam has something to offer every type of traveler. From bustling cities to serene countryside, from historical treasures to natural wonders, Vietnam promises an unforgettable journey. In this article, we’ll delve into the top 10 things to do when traveling to Vietnam, showcasing the nation’s unique allure.
1. Explore the Bustling Streets of Hanoi
Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi, is a mesmerizing blend of ancient traditions and modern influences. Start your journey by exploring the Old Quarter, where narrow streets are filled with local markets, street food vendors, and historic temples. Don’t forget to visit the Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple, which are beautifully illuminated at night, creating a romantic atmosphere for an evening stroll.
2. Cruise Through the Halong Bay
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay is a natural wonder that will leave you awestruck. Embark on a cruise to explore its emerald waters, towering limestone karsts, and hidden caves. The bay’s ethereal beauty makes it a photographer’s dream, and you can choose from various cruise options, ranging from budget to luxury.
3. Get Lost in the Ancient Town of Hoi An
Hoi An, with its well-preserved architecture and lantern-lit streets, transports you back in time. This charming town boasts an array of tailor shops, making it a great place to get custom-made clothing. Explore its markets, dine on exquisite Vietnamese cuisine, and be sure to visit the historic Japanese Covered Bridge.
4. Immerse Yourself in the Cu Chi Tunnels
Venture into the historic Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon). These underground tunnels served as a strategic base during the Vietnam War and offer a glimpse into the country’s wartime history. You can even crawl through a section of the tunnels to experience the cramped conditions faced by soldiers.
5. Marvel at the Temples of Angkor
While not technically in Vietnam, the nearby Angkor Wat complex in Cambodia is an absolute must-visit for travelers exploring Southeast Asia. These stunning temples are a testament to the grandeur of the Khmer Empire and can be easily reached from Ho Chi Minh City via a short flight. Witness the sunrise at Angkor Wat and explore the intricately designed temples in the surrounding area.
6. Savor Vietnamese Cuisine
Vietnamese food is renowned worldwide for its fresh ingredients and bold flavors. From street food stalls to upscale restaurants, you’ll find an array of delicious dishes to try. Don’t miss out on iconic dishes like pho (noodle soup), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), and fresh spring rolls. Each region in Vietnam has its own unique culinary specialties, so be sure to explore the local cuisine wherever you go.
7. Trek Through the Sapa Terraces
For nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, Sapa offers some of Vietnam’s most breathtaking scenery. Trek through terraced rice fields, mist-covered mountains, and traditional Hmong villages. The beauty of this region is unparalleled, and interacting with local ethnic minorities adds a cultural dimension to your journey.
8. Visit the Imperial City of Hue
Hue, located in central Vietnam, was once the imperial capital of the Nguyen Dynasty. Explore the UNESCO-listed Imperial City, a vast complex of palaces, temples, and gates. The Perfume River, which flows through Hue, offers picturesque boat rides and an opportunity to visit ancient pagodas.
9. Relax on Phu Quoc Island
For those seeking sun and sand, Phu Quoc Island is an idyllic destination. With its pristine beaches, lush jungles, and luxury resorts, it’s a perfect place to unwind. Explore the island’s fish sauce factories, pepper plantations, and vibrant night markets. Don’t forget to watch the mesmerizing sunset at Long Beach.
10. Learn About the War Remnants in Ho Chi Minh City
Gain a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s tumultuous history by visiting the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City. This thought-provoking museum exhibits war artifacts, photographs, and stories that shed light on the country’s painful past. It’s a poignant reminder of the resilience and strength of the Vietnamese people.
Conclusion
Vietnam is a country of incredible diversity, offering travelers a wide range of experiences. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene beauty of Halong Bay, from the historical richness of Hue to the culinary delights found across the nation, Vietnam is a destination that will captivate your heart and soul. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to discover the timeless charm of this beautiful country. Vietnam welcomes you with open arms and a promise of unforgettable memories.
Also, don’t forget to download the OneSimCard Universal SIM card for your trip to Vietnam. With the Universal SIM card, you can get 3000MB of data for $39.00 for 30 days. You can also use our 1SIM VoIP app to make and receive calls while traveling. The 1SIM VoIP app allows you to call virtually any phone number in the world for less cost than traditional cellular voice. You can see our blog post about the comparison of traditional cellular voice roaming and 1SIM VoIP voice. We hope you enjoy the wonders of Vietnam!
Exploring Finland: A Nordic Wonderland
Introduction
Finland, often referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Lakes” or the “Land of the Midnight Sun,” is a country of unparalleled natural beauty, pristine wilderness, vibrant culture, and innovative design. Situated in Northern Europe, Finland offers travelers a unique and captivating experience year-round. We delve into the wonders of Finland, from its enchanting landscapes and cultural treasures to its rich history and modern innovations.
Geography and Climate
Finland’s geography is defined by its numerous lakes, dense forests, and a long coastline that stretches along the Baltic Sea. It shares borders with Russia to the east, Sweden to the west, and Norway to the north. The country’s geography has a profound influence on its climate, with distinct seasons.
- Summer: Summers in Finland are a magical time when the sun barely sets, giving rise to the phenomenon of the “Midnight Sun.” This season, lasting from June to August, is perfect for outdoor activities, such as hiking, kayaking, and enjoying the long, sunny days.
- Winter: Winters in Finland bring snow and ice, transforming the country into a winter wonderland. From December to February, you can experience activities like ice skating, cross-country skiing, and the awe-inspiring Northern Lights.
- Autumn and Spring: Autumn, from September to November, is known for vibrant fall foliage, while spring, from March to May, witnesses the gradual return of longer daylight hours.
Helsinki: The Capital City
Most journeys to Finland begin in Helsinki, the nation’s capital and largest city. Helsinki is a modern and dynamic metropolis with a rich cultural scene, stunning architecture, and a blend of Nordic and Russian influences. Some must-visit attractions in Helsinki include:
- Senate Square (Senaatintori): The heart of Helsinki’s neoclassical architecture, featuring the iconic Helsinki Cathedral and Government Palace.
- Suomenlinna Fortress: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this sea fortress is an ideal place for a picnic and a leisurely stroll.
- Design District: Explore the Design District for a taste of Finnish design, including Marimekko textiles and Iittala glassware.
- Market Square (Kauppatori): Sample Finnish street food and browse for souvenirs at this lively market on the waterfront.
- Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church): A unique church carved into solid rock, known for its impressive acoustics and architecture.
Lakes and Wilderness
With over 180,000 lakes, Finland is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the most enchanting natural destinations in the country:
- Lake Saimaa: The largest lake in Finland, Lake Saimaa is a serene and picturesque region known for its stunning landscapes, islands, and the endangered Saimaa ringed seal.
- Koli National Park: Located in eastern Finland, this national park offers pristine wilderness, hiking trails, and panoramic views from Ukko-Koli hill.
- Rovaniemi: The capital of Lapland, Rovaniemi is famous as the official hometown of Santa Claus. It’s also a gateway to the Arctic wilderness and the Northern Lights.
- Archipelago National Park: Explore the beautiful archipelago off the southwest coast, comprising thousands of islands and islets.
- Wild Taiga: In eastern Finland, the Wild Taiga region is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering opportunities to spot bears, wolves, and lynx in their natural habitat.
Saunas and Cultural Traditions
Saunas are an integral part of Finnish culture, and there are more saunas than people in Finland. Experiencing a traditional Finnish sauna is a must during your visit. Some unique cultural traditions and activities to explore include:
- Löyly and Ice Swimming: Experience the contrast of hot sauna followed by a refreshing dip in icy waters, a Finnish tradition known as “löyly.”
- Midsummer Celebrations: Celebrate Midsummer, a significant Finnish holiday, by participating in bonfires, traditional dances, and the lighting of “kokko” (Midsummer bonfires).
- Finnish Cuisine: Sample Finnish dishes like salmon soup, Karelian pastries, and the iconic Finnish rye bread.
- Sami Culture: Discover the indigenous Sami culture, which includes unique handicrafts, reindeer herding, and traditional joik singing.
Adventure Sports and Activities
Finland offers a wide range of adventure sports and activities for thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts:
- Cross-Country Skiing: Experience the joy of gliding through snow-covered forests on well-maintained cross-country ski trails.
- Husky Safaris: Go on a husky safari through Lapland’s snowy wilderness, with these enthusiastic dogs leading the way.
- Canoeing and Kayaking: Paddle along Finland’s serene lakes and rivers, exploring remote waterways and camping by the shore.
- Aurora Hunting: Witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, during clear winter nights in Lapland.
Other must-do’s
The Finnish Archipelago
Finland’s coastline is dotted with a stunning archipelago, a unique and peaceful environment. To fully appreciate the archipelago’s beauty, consider taking a ferry or a cruise to explore its islands, which vary in size and character. From the bustling island of Åland with its maritime culture to the remote wilderness of the outer archipelago, each island offers a distinct experience.
Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi
For those seeking a magical experience, a visit to the Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi is a must. This enchanting destination provides visitors of all ages with the opportunity to meet Santa Claus himself, send postcards from the Arctic Circle, and experience the magic of Christmas year-round.
The Northern Lights in Lapland
Lapland, the northernmost region of Finland, is one of the best places on Earth to witness the Northern Lights. Between late September and early April, the night sky often comes alive with vibrant displays of green, purple, and pink hues. Lapland’s remote and pristine wilderness, combined with its clear winter nights, makes it an ideal location for aurora hunting.
Sustainable Tourism in Finland
Finland places a strong emphasis on sustainable tourism and environmental conservation. Responsible travelers can contribute to the preservation of Finland’s pristine nature and cultural heritage by following these principles:
- Respect Nature: Stay on marked trails, pick up trash, and leave no trace when exploring Finland’s wilderness.
- Support Local: Choose eco-friendly accommodations, purchase local products, and support indigenous Sami communities.
- Learn About the Environment: Educate yourself about the natural surroundings and wildlife you’ll encounter to ensure you’re a responsible and informed visitor.
- Minimize Your Impact: Conserve resources, minimize waste, and respect the delicate balance of ecosystems.
Conclusion
Finland is a land of natural wonders, cultural treasures, and memorable experiences. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant streets of Helsinki, venturing into the wilderness of Lapland, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the Finnish archipelago, this Nordic wonderland offers something for every traveler. Embrace the unique seasons, cultural traditions
To stay in touch with friends and family while in Finland, don’t forget to pack or download your OneSimCard International Roaming SIM card. Our data packages start at less than 1¢ per MB. This will let you upload lots of photos, use our OneSim VoIP app and email your friends about what a great time you are having for next to nothing!
The Magic of Mendoza, Argentina & the Vendimia
Selection of Malbec wine bottles on display
Are You planning travel to Argentina? Thinking about places to visit and when to go? We have a great recommendation for you! One of the most important festivals in Argentina takes place at the end of February through the first week of March. The Fiesta Nacional de la Vendimia (The Grape Harvest National Festival) celebrates the most important export of Mendoza, and perhaps all of Argentina…wine.
Settled in 1561 by Pedro del Castillo, the city of Mendoza is a relatively small city. It even feels smaller because of it’s quaint tree lined streets, and welcoming locals. The population of Mendoza center is 115,000 but climbs to 1 Million if you include the “metro” area. It encompasses 21 square miles and sits at 2,400 feet above sea level. The region is best known for it’s wine and olive oil production, especially for growing Malbec grapes. Because of it’s diverse terroir, Mendoza boasts some of the best Malbec wine in the world. Its varying bouquets are based on assorted soil, altitude and temperatures. Grapes are grown here from 2000 feet to 5000 feet above sea level. Nicolas Catena Zapata is the person who pioneered growing at such high altitudes since 1994.
The Vendimia
The Vendimia attracts thousands of South American artists, tens of thousands of tourists (especially wine enthusiasts) to Mendoza. They celebrate all 18 of the provinces that make up the State of Mendoza.
Celebrations aren’t limited to just this time, though. All through the month of February each of the 18 provinces of Mendoza have celebrations and ceremonies related to the wine harvest. This time of year is very special for the entire region. You will be able to have very unique experiences during the wine crush. We suggest roaming around the outlying areas of Mendoza center too. Enjoy lots of wine tastings, rent bicycles or hire a driver and take a tour of the whole region.
This year the schedule of the Vendimia is from February 26 through March 6th:
February 26th – ‘Blessing of the fruits’ ceremony.
March 3rd – 1st parade of Vendimia ‘Queens’ competing for the title of “Queen of Vendimia”, crowding the city streets, throwing fruit and even giving out bottles of wine.
March 4th – ‘Carousel of Vendimia’ This is a morning time parade featuring cowgirls in traditional outfits on horseback
Night of March 4th – The ‘Central Act’ is a fabulous production including over 1000 participants, and ends with the coronation of the ‘Queen of Vendimia,’ and with fireworks from the nearby Cerro de la Gloria in General San Martin park. This is the quintessential celebration when Mendocinos (what the locals refer to themselves as) and visitors take to the streets and parties to share the local elixir.
March 5th –This is a repeat performance of the previous night with additional Argentinian and international artists.
March 6th– A third night repeating the grand finale celebration with additional national artists.
Getting There
Depending on your itinerary you can fly into Mendoza ‘s international airport “Aeropuerto Internacional Gobernador Francisco Gabrielli” (MDZ). This traveler chose to first fly into Santiago, Chile where we stayed a few nights to explore that area before flying from Santiago, over the Andes, to MDZ. Argentina also has great bus lines, and there are even first class lie flat seats available from Buenos Aires for less than $100…but make sure to book a window seat to get great views of the countryside!
Your time in Mendoza and South America will be very memorable, and you will want to stay in touch while you are there. Be sure to get connected using the OneSimCard Universal E international SIM card or the eSIM World E international SIM card. Data rates in Argentina start at $13.00 for 500MB plan on the eSIM World E international SIM card for travelers. OneSimCard is the leader in global roaming SIM cards catering to international travel with access to hundreds of networks in 200+ countries and territories.
5 Things to Look for When Selecting the Best International SIM Card for Travel
More often than not international SIM cards offer a superior choice to using a local SIM card when traveling abroad. In this article, you will learn what to look for when selecting the best SIM card to stay connected during your travels and save money.
Coverage
Obviously a starting point of your selection. Does the SIM card cover the country you are going to? What about other countries on the way to your destination? Will you have a secure data connection during layovers?
Many SIM cards compete only for the most popular countries, but if you decide to get off the beaten path, you are on your own.
Think about the future. Do you like to travel? Do you travel a lot?
Unless you like buying and installing different disposable SIM cards, check all the destinations you may be visiting and see what your SIM card really covers.
OneSimCard operates in over 200+ countries featuring multiple carriers in many destinations for extra coverage. See all roaming rates and coverage here.
Phone Numbers
No internet. No problem.
Many people who exclusively rely on the internet for connectivity may not think much about phone numbers anymore. A few realize though when the mobile internet is not available, you may still be able to make and receive calls and SMS. This adds a whole new layer of safety.
Does your phone number require an internet connection for Voice and SMS connectivity? Make sure you can use your number without the internet, as data coverage is not always available.
Local phone numbers
Having a local number can be very convenient when you are abroad. Just think about how you use the phone number in your home country.
Can you easily add and remove local phone numbers from you international SIM card when you travel? Can your friends and family easily reach you?
OneSimCard comes with 2 included phone numbers: Europe & USA, Canada, UK or Australia. In addition you can add local phone numbers in 60+ countries
Verification SMS
Many service providers, especially banks, use 2-step verification for account access. This can catch international travelers by surprise when they try to access those services abroad, but instead get locked out of their accounts unable to verify their credentials.
Does your phone number support verification SMS? Can you add a phone number that supports SMS verification?
OneSimCard offers special numbers for receiving verification SMS from US banks and other financial institutions anywhere in the world.
Data, Voice and SMS Plans
Many SIM cards use only plans. Some, like OneSimCard use plans in addition to the default pay-as-you go rates.
In the plan-only case, it’s a lot easier to overspend. You may need to purchase another plan if you enter a new country or your original plan expires. Also, the coverage of plan-only SIM cards is usually more limited.
When a SIM offers pay-as-you-go Data, Voice and SMS rates, you have a choice between going back to pay-as-you go rates or getting another discount plan. This can save you more money as well provide more coverage.
A special note goes to unlimited data plans, which more often than not is a suboptimal choice. We discuss unlimited data plans in detail here.
Customer Support
Regular business hours may not be very helpful when you are several time zones away without any internet. Aim for 24/7 support if possible, and an easy way to receive it.
With OneSimCard, for example, your first 3 minutes of a Support call from your primary OneSimCard number are free. It does not matter where you are in the world (and no data connection is required to make that call).
Price
Very low rates may come with a contract, monthly or connection fees attached. Some SIM cards may have a rather short SIM card or balance expiration. Make sure you understand what your international SIM comes with.
OneSimCard is 100% prepaid. It does not require any contracts or connection fees.
Every OneSimCard features free incoming calls in over 160 countries on your primary European number. Moreover, your friends and family can send you free SMS to that number as well from onesimcard.com. No matter where you are in the world, all your incoming SMS to OneSimCard’s primary number are free to receive.
We hope this summary helped you to make a choice. If you have any questions, feel free to comment below or contact Customer Support on onesimcard.com or check out our lineup of international SIM cards here. Customer Support is available via chat, phone or email. Talk to you soon!
Happy travels!
Reopening Information and Best Practices for Traveling in the Age of COVID-19
COVID-19 has severely impacted the travel and tourism industry, decimating a sector responsible for generating approximately $2.9 trillion in global GDP. To curb the spread of the disease, most governments had to order a lockdown, and most of us feel like it’s taking forever. Fortunately, the world is recovering, and governments are reopening their borders.
The biggest question lingering in people’s minds is whether the changes put in place will remain, or if the travel industry will ever get back to pre-COVID levels.
GlobeTrender virtually hosted several industry players to weigh in on the matter. Jeremy Bowen, Cirium’s CEO, the Red Savannah CEO, George Morgan-Grenville, and Paul Charles, the CEO of the PC Agency shed some insight into the topic.
According to Bowel, rebuilding trust tops the list of the challenges faced by the travel sector during this time of Coronavirus. How will the passengers be convinced that it’s safe to travel on aircraft or other modes of transport again? It’s a hard nut to crack and has raised lots of debate.
As a result, various suggestions such as PPE, enforced social distancing, and testing have come up. What’s essential is, whatever precautions are put into place, the passengers must be ensured of safety.
For most industries, people can keep working from home after the reopening. Travel, however, cannot conform to this new era. The leisure travel industry will return to normalcy as predicted by Bowen.
Traveling in the New Age: Here Are the Best Practices
According to experts, you should stay at home until the global numbers reduce significantly. Even then, the biggest question remains on whether or not travelers will go back to their pre-COVID habits or adopt the new normalcy as part of their lives.
It is likely that most people will refrain from luxury travel, even as countries open up their borders. Others will take the risk and take the first plane out. Whichever the case, the best practice will be to learn how to live and adapt to the disease.
According to George Morgan Grenville, traveling may get consolidated for the next two years, where people will rebook their 2021 holidays. However, the booking levels for 2021 may not reach those of 2019.
Well, if you may be thinking of planning a vacation anytime soon, here are some things that you should consider.
- Plan Ahead
The key to traveling amid the global pandemic is having all the facts. Ensure you do some research on the Coronavirus cases in your destination. You also need to evaluate the risk factors as well as those of the people you are traveling with or visiting.
People who are older than 65 are better off staying at home. Additionally, if you plan on visiting these people, you need to be extra careful since they are at a much higher risk. Similarly, children and people with pre-existing conditions should also consider not traveling for the same reason.
- Get Tested
Getting tested will help determine whether you are an active carrier of the disease or not. Unfortunately, some people can be asymptomatic and risk spreading the disease to other people during the trip. You can also get infected as you travel from one place to another.
Ensure that you self-quarantine as you await the results. You should also quarantine upon arrival at your destination. If you develop any signs of the disease, however mild, be sure to consult a doctor before traveling.
- Bring Your Medical and Travel History with You
Most border checks will require proof of your medical and travel history before you can enter. As you are packing, ensure that you have all the necessary documents with you. Your medical documents should include updated records of the last two weeks. If you have had a recent COVID-19 test, ensure that you include the results as well.
Before boarding any flight, you will be required to prove that your chances of being in contact with the disease are minimal. Anyone who has been traveling in the last 14 days to a different part of the world may be at risk and you may be denied access to certain flights and borders.
- Follow All the Guidelines
WHO has provided several guidelines for people across the globe to follow. If you are going to take the risk and travel anyway, be sure to comply with these guidelines. The most essential one is covering your nose and mouth with a mask and avoid touching them as well. Most airports will not allow you to travel without your face mask.
Regardless of the means of travel that you plan to use, avoid touching people or things, maintain a safe distance from everyone, and avoid crowded places. Ensure that you wash your hands regularly and always bring some sanitizer with you.
- Bring OneSimCard
When you are traveling, make sure you have reliable and affordable means of communications. With OneSimCard international SIM card and travel eSIM, you can stay connected with your friends and family in over 200 countries.
Enjoy data from $0.01/MB; multiple discount data plans available. Local phone numbers in 60+ countries. Low cost calls and texts. Free incoming calls and SMS in many countries.
You can even order special phone numbers for SMS verifications and much more.
Government Guidelines Across the World
Several governments across the world have been reopening their borders. Popular destination s are now accepting international travelers into their countries. However, it won’t be business as usual, since most of them are placing restrictions on travelers.
The European Union announced that it would be reopening the borders for 14 countries. However, the union extended the travel ban for citizens from high-risk countries including the US, Russia, and Brazil.
Popular island destinations such as Bali and Barbados are also planning to reopen soon. The Governor of Bali announced that the island would be open for international tourism in September and domestic tourism would resume on July 9th.
Barbados, on the other hand, opened its borders for tourists from all countries on the 1st of July. However, the island has strict regulations that travelers need to adhere to, depending on where they come from. Tourists from high-risk countries like the US, for example, will need to take a test and test negative within 72 hours of traveling to the island.
While countries across the globe are taking safety precautions, some have been forced to have some internal measures in place as well. The US is one such country and is considered one of the high-risk countries. As of today, New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut require travelers from 16 states to self-quarantine upon getting into these States.
Different countries have varying measures in place for international and domestic travel. However, as more countries continue to reopen their borders, it is evident that things won’t go back to normal, although the travel industry will soon be back to business.
Is the Luxury Travel Industry Going To Bounce Back Faster than Other Sectors?
Unlike other businesses, the luxury sector has started enjoying a constant increase in inquiries. According to George Morgan-Grenville, the inquiries of the Red Savannah have increased steadily in recent months. But this does not deny that COVID-19’s impact has dampened demands from travelers, and the inquiries are still low.
The return of other business sectors will depend on the numbers affected by the virus, and a clear vision of where the businesses are heading. Most business people will be a bit cautious to reopen without a sign that they will thrive again in the COVID age. For this reason, the luxury travel industry will probably bounce back before the other sectors.
Though the travel industry may revive before the other sectors, it will still take years to rebound. As a result, flying will become expensive with time, unless the airlines innovate strategies to lower fares to lure many passengers. Nevertheless, the travel industry needs to cooperate with global institutions and governments to connect the world again during the COVID-19 period.
Photo Credits:
Woman wearing a mask by Anna Shvets