Vietnam among 21 life-changing trips

Vietnam has been named among 21 life-changing trips everyone should experience at least once by New York-based travel magazine Travel + Leisure.

"A trip through Southeast Asia is a must for any traveler, especially foodies who love street eats. While you could spend weeks in each of these countries, Thailand and Vietnam can easily be paired for an exciting trip packed with lush scenery, cultural experiences, and delicious food," it wrote.

The magazine suggested: "Have a little extra time to spare? Add Cambodia to the mix and include a visit to expansive Angkor Wat."

Other destinations in the list are: Italy, New York, Tokyo, Paris, Morocco, Greece, Machu Picchu, African Safari, Egypt, Maldives, Antarctica Cruise, Australia, Galapagos Islands, India, Petra (Jordan), Himalayas, American National Park Road Trip, Great Wall of China, Easter Island and Northern Lights Trip.

In mid-February, Vietnam had been named among 20 of the world's best-value destinations by leading Australian travel site Traveller.

"For food alone Vietnam is a favourite. Add the transformations and heady vibe of an emerging economy, incense-laden temples, lakeside old towns, lush highlands and mushrooming beach resorts and you have every reason to visit," it wrote.

"Vietnam remains one of the cheapest travel destinations in Asia, with direct budget flights from Australia an added saver.

"Expect to pay under two dollars for a beer or coffee, not much more for a bowl of pho, $50 for a decent hotel, and $170 for an upmarket one. Nothing to complain about, except the traffic," the travel site added.

Previously, Vietnam was named among the 20 best slow travel holidays for 2023 with "a salubrious wellness journey" by the Traveller.

"Go well by combining culture and sightseeing with activities designed to relax, rejuvenate and remind you that nothing is more important than your health," the site wrote.