10 Reasons To Vietnam Backpacking Tour Guides

Americans are still a small minority at backpackers' hostels. Bia Lanh 74 specialises in tofu and ginger dishes. I stumbled across this market completely by accident while taking a walk along Can Tho's promenade. I found that there were fewer tourists here meaning that we could navigate our boat through the market, getting up close and personal with the traders who were happy to chat, sell us fruit and share a laugh.

Although this isn't the end of the world, it is invaluable to have someone who can explain the intricacies and history of market life. Flights to Phu Quoc do not depart all that regularly but journeys to Da Nang are cheap and plentiful (expect to pay between £20 and £60 on Vietjet Air). If you purchase a ticket from your hostel or hotel to Can Tho the price will include a transfer to the port and the onward bus from Rach Gia to Can Tho which you will be herded onto as you disembark the boat.

I love night markets, too, this is such an Asian thing. I had no idea there were so many people out there, absolutely crazy! That sounds incredible - When are you going?

It's worth spending some time in the smaller towns of the Mekong too if you're in the region and it is very easy to catch a bus from Can Tho to Cambodia. You have captured the real essence of Vietnam culture and living in your photographs. I would like to visit all temples first.

Having spent 3 weeks travelling from Ho Chi Min City up to Hanoi I have one clear thought on Vietnam - why didn't I get there sooner?! It's a way more chilled vibe and although there isn't crazy amounts to do in the town itself there are plenty of places to eat after a relaxing day on the beach or by the pool. I wouldn't advise eating at the in-house restaurant though - it was overpriced and not good quality - there are plenty of smaller spots, including on the walk to the main road, that offer better value and taste.

When it comes to a place to stay the Dalat Family Hostel is a pretty unique hostel as far as hostels go - hugs on arrival, huge communal meals and an amazing vibe - in fact it made it onto my list of favourite hostels worldwide ! Wandering around the old town is a photographers dream and at night the banks of the river are lit up with colourful lanterns - it's a pretty romantic place! I opted to grab a bit more comfort in Hoi An and treated myself to a hotel called Long Life Hotel - a short walk from pretty much everywhere and it came with a pool and A/C…it was about $20USD for a double room but sometimes you have to treat yourself!

vietnam travel information Backpackers wins out in my opinion though as it offered a better nights sleep (Hanoi Rocks was pretty noises from early in the morning!) and also offered double bunk beds - perfect for couples not wanting to splash on a private room.