Whether it is your first time in Asia or it is a return trip, you will find Vietnam a fascinating destination. The colour and the chaos, the stunning natural scenery and friendly locals make this country a joy to visit. Although Vietnam has only been open to the rest of the world for the last 20 years, tourism is alive and well.

The Vietnamese value their history highly, and traditions are maintained. In many parts of the country you can still see people going their daily business dressed in traditional clothing. Fishermen still bring the catch up on beaches by hand, and people shop at the local outdoor market on a daily basis.

Everywhere you look you find colour. Brightly coloured silk's are both worn and sold, temples are brightly decorated and paddy fields grow green, with the next crop of rice.

The big cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh (still commonly called Saigon) are vibrant, full of people, and with more motorbikes and people, it seems. Although it seems completely chaotic, it works. In the cities you will find many reminders of a not too distant colonial past. The French, have left a legacy of buildings and great bread and pastries.

Food in general, is amazing. Fresh ingredients, seafood and plenty of fresh herbs, cooked quickly to provide a wide range of delicious meals. There are local specialities throughout the country, but whatever the locals are cooking is bound to be good.

Measuring over 3000 km from the North to the South, there is a variety of landscapes from the Sapa hill tribes in the north to the Mekong Delta in the South. Much of the population is still involved in rural activities and so the cycle of the weather and the rice crops, dictates many people's lives. One thing is sure you will not be short of photo opportunities.

Vietnam is blessed with a long coastline and there is no shortage of white sandy beaches. On the beaches you can choose to relax or undertake more adventurous activities. Some of the beaches can get very busy with both locals and visitors, but there are also plenty of clean unspoiled places to visit.

If you do venture off the main tourist track, you will find roads bumpy and less tourist resources. But you are also likely to find genuine, friendly people who are pleased to see you visiting.

There are many reasons to visit Vietnam and you will find no shortage of options in this beautiful and diverse country.