Photo: Tam Coc-Bich Dong tourism site by VNA

Sustainable tourism, or responsible travel, basically means minimizing the environmental, cultural, and social impacts of tourism, is now one of the key focuses of Vietnam Modern in a bid to boost local tourist businesses and preserve its natural and cultural resources simultaneously.

Thus, what is better than some far-flung yet spectacular places in your itinerary, where you can foster a positive impact on both the environment and the community by making green choices and reducing the gap between Vietnam’s most alluring stops and remote locations.

1. Cao Bang

Located in the tip area of Northern Vietnam, Cao Bang Province is a haven for adventurous travelers with its water-based and exceptional geological-cultural features since most parts of Cao Bang are recognized as UNESCO Global Geopark. Visitors who beat the path here can immerse themselves into stunning yellow terraced fields, one-of-a-kind ethnic local life and cuisine, the former hideout of Hồ Chí Minh, and last but not least the breathtaking Ban Gioc Waterfall - the largest waterfall in the Southeast Asia with 300 meters wide.

Ban Gioc is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world (Source: Flickr)

From above, the fountain looks exactly like a water castle with a variety of falls and botanical habitats different in size and angles. That being said, the best time to pay a visit to Cao Bang is from October to April, when Vietnam is in the dry season, perfect for such outdoor activities as trekking or sailing.  

2. Nghe An

Nghe An is Vietnam's biggest province, with a total area of 16,493 square kilometers. By its own broad area and diverse nature including pristine forests and mountains, stunning beaches, zoos, historical wonders, etc,  tourists will never get bored exploring the province on their own way. Spend a day visiting Kim Lien Relic, where Ho Chi Minh - Vietnam's most prominent historical figure was born and raised, or head to Pu Mat National Park to admire the ecological system home to many rare flora and fauna.

Outdoor activities at Cua Lo Beach, Nghe An (Source: Congthuong.vn)

Nghe An is also a coastal province, and the bustling beach like Cua Lo will complete your fulfilling trip with its perfect water for swimming, fresh local seafood, and authentic local experiences. The province is based in Northern Central, which in turn incorporates in their people the traditional values alongside with their well-known nature: hard-working, resilient, and caring.    

3. Dak Lak

Dak Lak is a hidden gem in the Central Highlands of Vietnam, home to Vietnamese coffee, mountain slopes, waterfalls, elephants, etc. Tourists traveling to Ho Chi Minh City may want to take a flight/train straight to this off-the-beaten-path province after discovering Sai Gon. To coffee lovers, visiting The World Coffee Museum or simply coffee houses located everywhere is such a dreamlike experience, learning about the history and how to make rich coffee beans, and the best part: tasting the original flavor.

Visiting The World Coffee Museum is such a dreamlike experience (Source: Collected)

Apart from being the country’s largest coffee hub, Dak Lak also allures visitors with its pristine natural gifts such as waterfalls, mountains, and elephants. Yok Đôn National Park is a recommended place for elephant excursions that aims at promoting animal welfare in partnership with Animals Asia. At night, tourists can take part in traditional ceremonies and dance performances of diverse ethnic minorities residing in Dak Lak for many years.

4. Côn Đảo

Tucked away on the southern coast belonging to Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province, Côn Đảo is where you can escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life and fully dive into the pristine beauty and tranquil atmosphere. This far-flung archipelago consists of 15 small islands, they are well-known for their abundant jungle and sandy beaches with diverse marine life of coral reefs, sea creatures, etc. Côn Đảo used to be a prison where many Vietnamese's blood, sweat, and tears were shed to protect the country.

Nowadays, most parts of Côn Đảo are still surrounded by uninhabited shorelines. Those who take the journey to Côn Đảo can make the most of their time by riding a motorbike along the coastline roads, feasting on seafood in the village, and taking leisurely walks on the island's lengthy, sandy beaches.

This pristine island in Vietnam has become one of the emerging tourist attractions (Source: Shutterstock)

5. Mekong Delta

Another destination where travelers can explore on foot or by motorbike/bicycle, the Mekong Delta has been a rising star of Vietnam tourism for the past few years and surprisingly preserves its natural habitat and rich culture very well, especially perfect for nomadic visitors.

For the fullest itinerary, foreigners often begin their journey in Cai Be, a small town by the river of Tien Giang Province. Here, they connect deeply with local people by learning about their daily lives, eating authentic Vietnamese dishes with fresh produce and river fish, and cycling around the town.

Sa Dec Flower Village is also a must-see destination (Source: Collected)

The next destination that tourists cannot skip is Sa Dec (Dong Thap Province). This place is known for its grand colonial villas, active riverside markets, and tasty noodle soups called Hu tieu, making Sa Dec an ideal spot to spend a few days. 

What about the Cai Rang Floating Market in Can tho? Thousands of wooden boats flow steadily by the waters, selling you a variety of goods, from fresh fruits to colorful textiles and accessories. Besides, you not only purchase stuff but also learn first-hand the culture with local people as most of them have been floating on their boats for more than decades.