* Insider advice on navigating local markets, from souvenirs to street food, plus detailed itineraries focused on everything from highlights to history.
* Where to find the newest and best boutiques, hotels, and restaurants, plus local spots off the beaten tourist track.
* Insightful commentary on Angkor Wat in a dedicated Cambodia chapter, plus an in-depth view at Vietnam's rich culture and history.
* Opinionated reviews. No bland descriptions and lukewarm recommendations. Our expert writer, a resident of Southeast Asia, is passionate and knowledgeable about the destination.
* Exact prices listed for every establishment and activity--no other guides offer such detailed, candid reviews of hotels and restaurants. We include the very best, but also emphasize moderately priced choices for real people.
* User-friendly features including star ratings and special icons to point readers to great finds, excellent values, insider tips, best bets for kids, special moments, and overrated experiences.

List of Maps vii

1 THE BEST OF VIETNAM 1

2 VIETNAM IN DEPTH 7

3 SUGGESTED ITINERARIES IN VIETNAM 34

4 ACTIVE VACATION PLANNER 49

5 HANOI 55

6 THE NORTHERN HIGHLANDS 117

7 NORTHEASTERN COAST 147

8 NORTH-CENTRAL VIETNAM 163

9 CENTRAL VIETNAM 175

10 THE CENTRAL HIGHLANDS 222

11 SOUTH-CENTRAL VIETNAM 251

12 HO CHI MINH CITY (SAIGON) 281

13 THE MEKONG DELTA 337

14 CAMBODIA 355

15 PLANNING YOUR TRIP TO VIETNAM 427

16 THE VIETNAMESE LANGUAGE 449

Index 457