Fly to Ho Chi Minh City

Tour the halls, war rooms and former command centre at the Independence Palace, also known as the Reunification Palace since the end of the Vietnam War in 1975. From there it's an easy stroll on leafy streets to the three-storey War Remnants Museum. Sobering exhibitions about Vietnam's conflicts with France, the United States and China include poignant photography, while military detritus including tanks and aircraft from the 1960s and '70s is on display in the museum's gardens. Definitely also schedule a day trip to the fascinating Cu Chi Tunnels, around 50km northwest of the city.

Rice paddies, pagodas, busy cities and traditional villages all feature in the labyrinthine Mekong Delta. Rise at dawn to visit the Cai Rang floating market near Can Tho, the Delta's biggest city, or amble through a fruit orchard and enjoy traditional coconut candy around the riverside town of Ben Tre. Can Tho's busy after-dark scene is best enjoyed at street food markets along the riverfront, and it's also a good base for exploring the nearby rural hinterland by boat and bicycle with Can Tho-based Hieu Tour. Near the town of Vinh Long, An Binh is an island destination with rustic homestays.

Street food and Asia's best craft beer scene are excellent reasons to jump on the back on a scooter and enjoy a guided tour of Ho Chi Minh City. Experiences with the all-female crew at XO Tours include Saigon by Night, a flavour-packed excursion including the authentic seafood stalls south of the river in District 4. Visiting hoppy hotspots including BiaCraft and Heart of Darkness, Vespa Adventures' Saigon Craft Beer tours are conducted on vintage, bright orange scooters. For a leisurely look at the city on two legs, book a Tales of the City walking tour with the team at Old Compass Travel.