In a land full of paradoxes, where megacities stand just a few kilometres from ancient architectural marvels, and hill-tribe villages are just as accessible as beach shacks, you’ll find yourself submitting to everything Vietnam has to offer.

In frenetic Ho Chi Minh City, navigate the high-octane streets that seem to blend the past and present and spend some time exploring the labyrinthine Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground reminder of the Viet Cong’s struggles during the Vietnam War.

Extend the history lesson with a couple of days in neighbouring Cambodia, marvelling at the architectural genius of the Khmer Rouge. Angkor Wat awaits.

Back in Vietnam, in sleepy, idyllic Hoi An, cycle through paddy fields and kayak through small local rivers, observing the ways of the river people as they go about their simple lives.

The capital city of Hanoi has its own charms to offer, starting with the majestic limestone karst outcrops along the Halong Bay which isn’t too far away. Spend a night on a local junk boat, explore the nearby caves, and jump straight off the deck into the deep blue waters when it gets too warm. In the city, dodge the sea of two-wheelers and follow your nose on a street food tour. Sample culinary gems in secret alleyways and find out just why Vietnam has become the culinary superpower it is.

As the sun sets over glittering pagodas and remnants of the country’s French and Chinese occupation, Vietnam will have won you over.