There’s little doubt just how much Vietnam has changed since the conflict threatened to tear the country apart over 19 bloody years. But like all places around the world that have undergone the boot of suppression and hardship, devastated by war or ravaged by a tyrannical regime, what rises out of the ashes is often a symbol of hope.
Now attracting more visitors than ever before, Vietnam is the very definition of a phoenix from the flames. And there’s much more to the country than just the usual tourist hot-spots. In a land this culturally diverse, you’re going to come across plenty of the weird and wonderful too. Here we take a look at five alternative attractions you can enjoy during your visit and add to the plan of your Vietnam trip. Just make sure to place your order for a Vietnam visa before your holiday and avoid complications on the border!
The Golden Bridge
You might have seen this one in the news recently as it has only just opened, as part of a 2 billion US dollar regeneration programme in the region. What appears to be two giant stone hands holding a golden bridge are, in fact, made from fiberglass. The bridge was built to entice more tourists to the area, a feat in which it is already succeeding.
Located in the BĂ NĂ Hills resort close to Da Nang, the bridge is meant to convey the feeling of “walking along a thread stretching through the hands of God.” Judge for yourself if it achieves this sensation, but it’s certainly something you won’t see every day!
The Am Phu Cave
Nestled in the Marble Mountains also close to Da Nang, you’ll find many unique carvings and sculptures crafted from the rock. In spite of the region being generally popular with tourists, there is one place in particular that has been terrifying and delighting visitors in equal measure since it was first opened to the public in 2006.
The name Am Phu literally translates as “hell,” and if the golden bridge makes you feel like you’re in gods’ hands, this cave might well make you feel you’re in the devils. Th