Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia now are still the ‘new destinations’, more and more visitors are drawn by the image of the countries previously associated with war and conflict, but now revealed as a place of unspoilt natural beauty and culture. They have much to offer holidaymakers - friendly people, exotic ethnic cultures, spectacular scenery and beaches, plenty of things to see and do, and a well-deserved reputation as the safest countries in Asia.
Located in Indochina (including Laos and Cambodia), Vietnam is a former French colony and has been
independent since 1954. It still retains a strong French cultural influence, with wide boulevards, magnificent Belle Époque architecture, fresh baguettes sold on every corner, and good espresso and fine Bordeaux widely available. Unlike Laos and Cambodia, where the people have more in common with India, the Vietnamese are much closer culturally to China, with Confucian ethics valuing age, education and hard work. The Vietnam War has long since been forgotten, and the people are exceedingly warm and hospitable in this nominally communist country which is an absolute delight to visit.