A Vietnam holiday package can include the beautiful beaches of the south, the rugged landscapes of the north…or both! Sunseekers will find impossibly white sand and crystal-clear water on both the mainland (Nha Trang) and surrounding islands (Phu Quoc). The south is also home to bustling Ho Chi Minh City, where bright lights, skyscrapers and remnants of the country’s war-torn history sit side by side.

In the north, the nation’s capital, Hanoi acts as a gateway to the emerald waters of Halong Bay and undulating hills of Sapa. With a distinct European influence, the bustling city is a little more laidback than its southern equivalent but by no means any less exciting.

It’s impossible to think about a Vietnam holiday package without salivating – the local cuisine is world-class, spanning from street stalls to fine-dining restaurants. Slurp on noodle soup from street stalls in Hue, or feast on local delicacies in Hoi An.

Packing for a Vietnam holiday package depends on your plans – beach buffs will need swimmers and sunscreen, while mountain explorers will need to rug up in the winter months. It’s worth bringing a cover-up or a lightweight shirt and trousers for visits to religious sites.

Just as Vietnam’s landscapes range from mountains to beaches, so does its weather. Spring (March to April) is generally the best time for a Vietnam holiday package that includes the entire country, with consistent warm temperatures. If your Vietnam holiday package only includes the south, the dry season is from December to May so you have a little more time to soak up the sunshine.