From the spectacular beach escapes and historical cities to the mouth-watering Vietnamese cuisine, Central Vietnam offers a country's worth of experience in one region. A vacation in the country would be incomplete without a stopover at any of the numerous tourist attractions that can be found in the region, notably the three of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Ideal pit stops after a trek to the nearby mountain ranges, the towns exude a relaxed, rustic feel that invites tourists to stay at the many lodging options and have a taste of the local food.
Fortunately for tourists, Central Vietnam is easily accessed via Danang airport, which readily features a tourist attraction. Formerly known as Faifo, the UNESCO World Heritage Site Hoi An used to be a trading port in the 16th to 17th centuries. The city's foreign influences are still very much alive, evident in the bold Chinese-style architecture and the variety of goods sold in the marketplaces.
Tucked within the jungles southwest of Hoi An is another UNESCO-recognized site: My Son Sanctuary. It depicts the rich blend of Vietnamese and Indian cultures and is also considered one of the best-preserved remains of the Champa kingdom. In the northeast, one can find Vietnam's last item on UNESCO's list, the former imperial capital of Hue, which has retained the majesty of a fallen kingdom, as seen in the intact statues and temples around the town. Hue also takes pride on serving up some of the country's best-tasting local cuisine, to put a finishing touch to a very satisfactory trip.
A visit to the region would be incomplete without stopping by the iconic China Beach, a 35 km. sliver of white sand and clean waters. During the Vietnam War, US GIs used to go to these shores to relax and enjoy the tropical sun. Journeying farther away from the eastern coasts, one will come across the lush forests and challenging terrain that backpackers and avid trekkers will enjoy. A popular choice is the Bach Ma National Park, one of the country's largest. This conservation facility is recognized around Asia for having over a thousand species of flora and fauna, such as the endemic Edward's pheasant, the Saola, and the Bach Ma pine. Spending a day around the park will be enjoyable and easy as there are lodgings in the vicinity.