03/12/2010

Vietnam and Cambodia Tours Offer Insight into Teaching Destinations

Vietnam and Cambodia tours are becoming increasingly popular and are widely considered to be the perfect way to enjoy some of the most spectacular sights in Southeast Asia, particularly those thinking of becoming English teachers in either country.

There are many companies offering deals on flights to either Cambodia’s Siem Reap or Vietnam’s Tan Son Nhat, although it is advised to do your research when looking around for the cheapest flights available.

With so much to see and do in both of these equally spectacular and disparate Asian countries many visitors choose to use a car hire service to explore everything that Vietnam and Cambodia has to offer.

While Thailand remains popular with many tourists and travellers, Cambodia and Vietnam have benefited from the exposure and limelight their south-eastern neighbour has received in recent years. Both countries have witnessed growth in tourism over the past 12 months, with the number of visitors to the region increasing by 15 per cent over that period; many of whom embark on a temporary job.

Both nations are on the rise after decades of war and poverty, with Vietnam in particular boasting one of the fastest growing economies in the World, according to the World Economic Forum. Vietnam continually attracts a flow of visitors although Cambodia has been hailed by commentators as one the planet's emerging destinations for those looking to searching for a more exotic holiday destination, or indeed, a teaching placement.

First stop for most visitors when exploring Vietnam is the country’s captivating capital, Hanoi. The city’s old French colonial past is still visible in its Parisian style architecture, while many buildings also demonstrate the modern side of a new emerging Asia.

Masses of motorbikes whizz through the streets in their hundreds, and these must be carefully navigated when attempting to make your way from one side of the street to another. Buses, trucks and cars must also be avoided when crossing the city’s jam-packed streets.

The Red River dominates the immediate landscape, running right through the city to the Gulf of Tolkin, offering some spectacular views along the way. The Hoan Kiem Lake is also a key landmark in the city and is surrounded by fine eateries and grand hotels.

The main attraction, however, remains the city’s old quarter, the heartbeat of Hanoi. Filled with original architecture, lots to see and do and hundreds of shops and restaurants. There is a real vibrancy and buzz surrounding the old quarter and it is an opportunity not to be passed up. Other favoured destinations are the villages and fields of Mekong Delta and the naturally beautiful Halong Bay, while many tourists also head to Phu Quoc Island to relax on stunning white beaches in the height of summer.

Visiting the magical Angkor Wat temple is one of the most popular tours in Cambodia and remains the country’s main attraction. The temple is hugely symbolic of the country’s glorious past and the Khmer Empire. The temple’s brilliant architecture ensures the Angkor Wat is recognised as one of the eight wonders of the World.

The country’s capital, Phnom Penh, is another obvious destination to visit in Cambodia. It is easy to see why Phnom Penh is also known as the ‘charming city’ upon meeting the friendly locals and taking a quick walk through its many stalls and markets.

The Siem Reap is also a firm favourite with holidaymakers and is widely considered to be the face of the modern Cambodia. There are now more hotels than temples in the city, a response to increasing demand from tourists. A vibrant and lively city, Siem Reap should be explored for a few days before heading on to Angkor.

Both Vietnam and Cambodia have lots to offer, and people now want to experience first hand just what makes these two countries so special. 2011 certainly looks set to be their year.