There are some places where life cannot be held back, and Vietnam is one of those places. The cities bustle with scooters and cars, and the sidewalks are packed with little cafes serving delicious street food. You almost wouldn't think a war ravaged this country for decades. Vietnam has definitely bounced back.

But as usual, the cities aren't the real charm of this former French colony. Floating through the tranquil waters of Ha Long Bay, cruising the Mekong River for a day, or just strolling through a little town like Hoi An or Sapa is a much better picture of this now-thriving country.

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