Best of Vietnam and Cambodia 15 days

Tour Code: V26HNG1TT3K8

4.9 (116 Reviews)

Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City - Can Tho - Chau Doc - Phnom Penh - Siem Reap

From: $898 4-star hotels

4.9

(116 reviews)

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Duration

15 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

About this tour

Hanoi – Halong Bay – Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh City – Can Tho – Chau Doc – Phnom Penh – Siem Reap

Embark on a journey that allows you to relish your holiday across the finest destinations of Vietnam and Cambodia. Begin your adventure in the northern region of Vietnam, exploring the vibrant capital and its rich historical landmarks. Traverse southward to uncover the charms of the central and southern regions, replete with tropical wonders. Experience the vitality of life along the Mekong Delta before venturing into Cambodia via speedboat. Immerse yourself in the intriguing history of Cambodia, marvel at the world-renowned masterpiece, Angkor Wat, and gain insights into the lives of the floating village residents. Witness the splendors of these globally acclaimed landmarks throughout this enlightening two-week vacation.

Included/Excluded

* Throughout the tour, guests will be accommodated exclusively in 4- and 5-star hotels.
* Accommodation based on twin or double sharing room
* All transfers and road transport in modern, air-conditioned vehicles if specified in the program
* Meals as mentioned in the program. B-Breakfast, Br-Brunch, L-Lunch, D-Dinner
* Your tour guide is a professional, fully trained employee of VTP Travel
* Entrance fees if specified in the program
* Airfares, Cruise, Train, Sleeper bus if specified in the program.

* Compulsory tips for tour guide and driver
* Meals not mentioned in the program
* Single Supplement. Early check-in and late check-out. Hotel/Room upgrade
* Drinks, personal expenses and any services not clearly mentioned in the program
* Surcharge for the festive seasons
* Applicable Government Taxes and other service charges.
* The tour cost does not include POE charges and passport charges.
* Porterage Facility

Hotel List:
To view the list and detailed information about the hotels used in the tour

Please click here: View Hotel List

Itinerary

Greetings from Hanoi!

Upon your arrival, the tour guide and driver from BestPrice Travel will extend a warm welcome and transfer you directly to your designated hotel.

Kindly note that hotel check-in time is at 2:00 pm. Should you opt for an early check-in, a nominal fee will be applicable.

After a long flight, it is advisable to take some time to rest and prepare for the upcoming day's activities. However, if you are eager to explore the city, you have the option to meander through the Old Quarter or consider the following suggestions:

Water Puppet Show: Immerse yourself in the traditional Vietnamese performance art of water puppetry, where artists convey stories and legends through water puppets. This show is particularly enjoyable for families with children.

Vietnamese Cooking Class or Hanoi Street Food Tour: Ideal choices for any food enthusiast seeking a culinary experience. Opt for a cooking class to learn new and simple Vietnamese recipes or join a local guide to savor the delectable street foods of Hanoi.

Note: Upon arrival, please make your way to Pole No.10 (outside the Terminal Gate at the airport), where our tour guide eagerly awaits your presence.

Meals: Not Applicable
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

<span> Day 2</span> Hanoi City Tour Half-day

Morning or afternoon departure is contingent upon availability.

Based on your preference, you can opt for either a car or motorbike for your half-day city tour in Hanoi, or customize the travel route according to your interests.

Upon picking you up from the hotel, our knowledgeable tour guide will accompany you to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's inaugural university, now a revered historical site. Established in 1076, this institution served as an educational center for youth from royal and noble families.

Your itinerary proceeds to the One Pillar Pagoda, an ancient temple representing a symbol of Vietnam's capital. Following this, the tour guide leads you to the nearby Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. While you can appreciate and capture photographs of these landmarks from the outside, an option exists to enter; however, anticipate substantial crowds.

Note: The Mausoleum observes closure on Mondays and Fridays, as well as during June to August.

Completing the sightseeing, you'll culminate your captivating Hanoi half-day tour at West Lake and the revered Tran Quoc Pagoda.

Post-sightseeing, relish a delectable lunch at an authentic Vietnamese restaurant, leaving the remainder of the day entirely at your disposal.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

<span> Day 3</span> Hanoi – Halong Bay – Overnight on Cruise

At approximately 8:00 - 8:30 am, our driver will pick you up for the journey to Halong Bay, a remarkable World Natural Heritage site in Vietnam.

After about 2.5 hours of travel, you will reach the cruise lounge, where the staff will assist with the check-in process.

Once the boat begins its voyage through the bay, lunch will be served.

You'll have a brief interval for relaxation or a nap before engaging in afternoon activities. The specific itinerary varies depending on the cruise you choose. Activities may include swimming, kayaking, cave exploration, and sightseeing. Subsequently, return to the cruise to unwind and relish the breathtaking sunset before indulging in dinner.

Overnight stay on board.

Accommodation: Overnight on-board
Please note that our tour guide will not accompany you on the cruises; instead, crew members proficient in English will be present.

<span> Day 4</span> Halong Bay – Hanoi – Flight to Da Nang

You have the option to enjoy a restful morning until breakfast or embrace the new day with a brief Tai Chi session at dawn.

Following that, you will proceed with the cruise's morning activities to further explore the enchanting landscapes of Halong Bay.

An early lunch will be served while the boat sails back to the port.

Since you have a flight to catch in Da Nang, our driver will take you directly to the airport after picking you up from the dock.

The journey to Da Nang may take approximately 1.5 hours, where another driver awaits to transfer you to Hoi An.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An

<span> Day 5</span> Hoi An Half day tour

Departure in the morning or afternoon, depending on availability.

Your guide will lead you through the serene ancient streets of Hoi An, allowing you to marvel at the distinctive architecture of the historic houses and witness the daily activities of the locals. Subsequently, you'll explore some of the town's most iconic landmarks, such as the Japanese Covered Bridge or the Fujian Assembly Hall of the Chinese.

Following the sightseeing tour, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy a refreshing cup of a special herbal drink from a charming street vendor. If time permits, your guide may also take you to a handicraft store, offering you the chance to purchase unique souvenirs and witness the handmade craftsmanship of the local artisans.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An

Today is your opportunity to immerse yourself freely in the charms of Hoi An. Whether you opt for a leisurely day of relaxation, indulging in more delectable street foods, or engaging in a shopping spree for local handicrafts and souvenirs, the choice is yours. Alternatively, you might want to consider some of the suggested day tours below:

Discover My Son Holy Land (Half Day): Perfect for history enthusiasts, embark on a short journey to explore the My Son Sanctuary, home to remarkable and intriguing Champa ruins.
Price starting from $50 per person

Life as a Farmer in Cam Thanh Village: Experience a day in the life of a farmer, learning the complete process of cultivating wet rice, Vietnam's essential agricultural product.
Price starting from $70 per person

Hoi An Vespa Tour: The Vespa seamlessly blends with the narrow ancient streets of Hoi An, offering one of the most enjoyable ways to explore and capture the essence of the town.
Price starting from $85 per person

Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An

<span> Day 7</span> Hoi An - Danang - Flight to Ho Chi Minh City

Indulge in a satisfying last breakfast in Hoi An before we escort you to Da Nang Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

The flight duration is approximately 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, please proceed to Pole No.10 (located outside the terminal gate) to connect with our driver, who will then transport you to your hotel.

The remainder of the day is yours to seize. Consider taking a well-deserved nap or venture out to explore the city at your own pace.

Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

<span> Day 8</span> Ho Chi Minh City Half day city tour

Departure time can be arranged in the morning or afternoon based on availability.

Embark on a half-day city tour to explore some of the most emblematic sites in Ho Chi Minh City.

Upon your pick-up, our guide will lead you to the first stop: the Reunification Palace, which served as the residence of the President of the Republic of Vietnam and stands impeccably preserved to this day. Following that, you will visit the Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral and the Old Post Office, both constructed by the French in the 19th century, now serving as iconic landmarks in Saigon.

To conclude your brief excursion, our guide will accompany you to a local market, providing an opportunity to hone your bargaining skills while shopping.

Return to your hotel, where you'll have the remainder of the day to explore at your leisure.

Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

<span> Day 9</span> Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta - Cai Be - Can Tho

Embarking on a journey to the Mekong Delta offers a respite from the bustling streets, providing a serene interlude following days of traversing Vietnam's vibrant cities. Recognized as the primary food-producing region in the country, the Mekong Delta relies on a harmonious blend of rivers, orchards, and rice fields. As a result, your Mekong Delta adventure promises a unique and unparalleled travel experience.

The road journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Can Tho, a central hub in the Mekong Delta, takes time. Therefore, the itinerary allows for a boat excursion, navigating the intricate canal system to unveil the wonders of tropical fruit orchards and fish farms.

Subsequently, your journey continues to Can Tho, where you will spend the night.

Accommodation: Hotel in Can Tho

<span> Day 10</span> Can Tho – Cai Rang floating market – Chau Doc

Begin your day with an early rise to explore the renowned Cai Rang floating market in Can Tho. Navigate the Mekong River aboard a motorboat and sampan, immersing yourself in the intricate canal network adorned with water coconut trees. Your journey will also lead you to a fruit orchard, offering a delightful opportunity to savor seasonal fruits and engage in conversations with the amicable locals.

As the day unfolds, venture from Can Tho to Chau Doc, laying the groundwork for your forthcoming excursion to Cambodia.

Accommodation: Hotel in Chau Doc

<span> Day 11</span> Chau Doc - Phnom Penh by speed boat

Our team will facilitate your transfer to the boat station for a swift journey to Phnom Penh via a speed boat.

Upon arrival at the dock, our local driver will be ready to escort you to your designated hotel in Phnom Penh.

Accommodation: Hotel in Phnom Penh

<span> Day 12</span> Half day Phnom Penh City tour – road transfer to Siem Reap

Under the guidance of our Cambodian expert, embark on a morning city tour in Phnom Penh.

Commencing with a brief visit to the Independence Monument, your journey continues to the Royal Palace—an exemplary Khmer-style royal edifice that still serves as the residence of the royal family. In the same vicinity, explore the Silver Pagoda, renowned for its silver-covered floor and adorned with precious jewels like diamonds, emeralds, and gold.

Adjacent to the palace lies the National Museum, showcasing a collection of over 5000 artifacts that narrate Cambodia's rich history and cultural heritage.

Cap off the morning with a visit to Wat Phnom, a sacred hill with historical significance in the birth of Phnom Penh.

In the afternoon, your sole activity involves the transfer from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. At the Mekong Bus Station, you'll board a 6-hour bus journey to Siem Reap. Please note that the guide won't accompany you during the bus transfer but will reunite with you upon arrival in Siem Reap.

Upon reaching Siem Reap, your guide will assist you in checking into the hotel, allowing you time to unwind and prepare for the upcoming exploration of Angkor.

Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap

<span> Day 13</span> Angkor Wat Complex Full day tour

Commence your morning with a visit to the enchanting Ta Prohm Temple nestled in the jungle, where colossal fig trees and sprawling creepers embrace the ancient structure. This temple, famously featured in the Hollywood film Tomb Raider, exudes an otherworldly charm.

Embark on a tour of the historic capital, Angkor Thom, beginning at the South Gate adorned with colossal statues depicting the churning of the ocean of milk. Explore the Bayon Temple, distinguished by its 54 towers adorned with over 200 smiling faces of Avalokitesvara. Continue to the Phimeanakas, the Royal Enclosure, the Elephants Terrace, and the Terrace of the Leper King.

In the afternoon, delve into the iconic Angkor Wat, the most renowned temple on the plains of Angkor. Encompassing an expansive 81 hectares, this 12th-century masterpiece is akin in size to Beijing's Imperial Palace. Its distinctive five towers, featured on the Cambodian flag, make it a prime illustration of classical Khmer art and architecture, according to art historians.

Conclude your day with a captivating sunset view, either from Angkor Wat or another suitable vantage point.

In the evening, relish a buffet dinner accompanied by a Khmer Traditional Dance Show at Amazon or Kulen II restaurant.

Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap

<span> Day 14</span> Siem Reap - Free day

Take advantage of this day to explore your personal interests. You might explore local markets for delectable street food, treat yourself to a traditional Khmer massage, or gain a deeper understanding of Cambodia's heart through a cooking class.

Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap

<span> Day 15</span> Siem Reap Departure

Your journey concludes after breakfast, and there are no scheduled activities. If you plan to extend your stay in Siem Reap, feel free to contact your sales agent for assistance with booking additional nights of accommodation.

Enjoy your free time until your transfer to Siem Reap International Airport for your journey back home or to your next destination.

Accommodation: NA

Durations

I3 - 16 days

Languages

English

Regional Tours

Cambodia

Cambodia & Neighboring Countries

Vietnam

Vietnam & Neighboring Countries

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Tour's Location

Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City - Can Tho - Chau Doc - Phnom Penh - Siem Reap

The Legend of Hanoi’s West Lake - 🐉 The Legend of Hanoi’s West Lake – Between Myth, History, and Timeless Beauty📍 Location: Northwest Hanoi | Free Entry | Open 24/7 🌅 Introduction: Where Myth Meets Modern Hanoi Few places in Hanoi capture the city’s poetic soul quite like West Lake (Hồ Tây). The vast, shimmering expanse of water — stretching over 500 hectares — has been a silent witness to Hanoi’s long and layered history. It’s a place where ancient legends blend effortlessly with modern life, where monks, kings, and mythical creatures once roamed, and where today’s travelers can enjoy lakeside cafés, sunsets, and the calm rhythm of local life. But before the luxury hotels, the trendy restaurants, and the scenic cycling routes, there was a story — a legend that explains how this lake came to be. And it’s one of Vietnam’s most enchanting folktales: The Legend of the Golden Buffalo and the Birth of West Lake. 🛕 The Ancient Tale: How the Golden Buffalo Created West Lake Long ago, when the world was still wrapped in mist and myth, a virtuous monk journeyed to China to heal the emperor’s mysterious illness. Out of gratitude, the emperor rewarded him with a generous gift of bronze. The monk, humble and devoted, donated most of the bronze to the state upon returning to Vietnam. Yet with the small portion he kept, he crafted a magnificent bronze bell — a bell so pure and resonant that its sound rolled across mountains and rivers, echoing far beyond human lands. 🐮 Far away in the imperial treasury of China, there lived a golden buffalo calf. Hearing the divine sound of the bell, the calf mistook it for its mother’s call and began charging south toward the origin of the sound. It ran tirelessly across valleys and plains until it reached Hanoi. But when the bell stopped ringing, the confused calf spun in circles, digging deep into the earth in its frantic search. The ground caved in, forming a massive hollow — which soon filled with water and became West Lake (Hồ Tây). According to legend, the golden buffalo still lies deep beneath the lake’s waters. It’s said that only a man aided by his ten natural sons can one day retrieve it — a symbol of purity, family unity, and divine destiny. 🌊 Between Myth and Reality: The Geographical Story While the legend paints a magical picture, geologists and historians offer a more down-to-earth explanation. West Lake was likely formed thousands of years ago as a lagoon left behind by the shifting Red River (Sông Hồng). Over time, the river’s course changed, creating a narrow land strip between the lake and the river, reinforced later by human-made embankments. But even the scientific truth doesn’t erase the poetry of the place. The lake’s still waters continue to hold the whisper of myth — and perhaps, the quiet pulse of that golden buffalo deep beneath. 👑 A Royal Playground Through the Centuries In Vietnam’s feudal era, West Lake wasn’t just a natural wonder — it was a royal retreat. Monarchs from the Ly, Tran, and Le dynasties built summer palaces and spiritual sanctuaries along its banks, seeking tranquility and inspiration. One of the most notable constructions was Trấn Quốc Pagoda, originally founded in the 6th century and known as Vietnam’s oldest pagoda. Sitting gracefully on a small islet connected by a red bridge, it became a sacred center for meditation and royal ceremonies. Even today, monks in saffron robes can be seen tending to the pagoda’s gardens, and visitors come from around the world to light incense, admire the intricate statues, and enjoy panoramic views of the lake at sunset. 🌅 West Lake Today (2025): The Beating Heart of Modern Hanoi Fast-forward to 2025, and West Lake has transformed into Hanoi’s most desirable neighborhood — a mix of traditional charm and cosmopolitan sophistication. Expats, artists, and young professionals call this area home. You’ll find luxury hotels, rooftop bars, craft cafés, yoga studios, and peaceful walking paths circling the water. Despite the modern vibe, the air of legend still lingers — especially at dawn, when mist hangs low and the sound of temple bells drifts across the lake. ✨ What to Experience Around West Lake (2025): 🚴‍♀️ Cycle or walk the 17km perimeter for incredible sunrise and sunset views. 🛕 Visit Trấn Quốc Pagoda, the city’s oldest religious site. 🍵 Enjoy lakeside dining at chic spots like Maison de Tet Décor, El Gaucho Steakhouse, or The Sunset Bar at InterContinental Hanoi Westlake. 🚤 Take a paddle boat ride on the nearby Trúc Bạch Lake, especially at sunset. 📸 Capture iconic Hanoi views from Thanh Niên Street — the narrow causeway separating West Lake and Trúc Bạch Lake. 💬 The Legend Lives On: West Lake in Local Culture The legend of the golden buffalo isn’t just an old folktale — it continues to live in Hanoi’s identity. Local artists, poets, and musicians still reference the mythical creature as a symbol of power, endurance, and prosperity. During the Lunar New Year (Tết), families visit West Lake to release carp into the water — a symbolic act of letting go of misfortune and inviting blessings. Lovers stroll under the flame trees, while elders practice tai chi by the lakeshore, connecting spiritual calm with physical harmony. In every season, the lake changes character:🌸 Spring brings soft blossoms around the temples.☀️ Summer fills the air with lotus fragrance.🍂 Autumn paints the waters gold.❄️ Winter wraps the lake in silver mist. Each phase reflects the rhythm of Hanoi’s heart — gentle, reflective, and eternal. 🌿 Practical Tips for Visiting West Lake in 2025 ✅ Best Time to Visit: Early morning (5–7 am) for sunrise tranquility, or late afternoon (4–6 pm) for magical golden light.✅ Getting There: Only a 10-minute drive from Hanoi’s Old Quarter by motorbike or taxi.✅ Local Eats: Try Bánh tôm Hồ Tây (crispy shrimp pancakes) — a Hanoi specialty born right here by the lakeside.✅ Don’t Miss: Watching the sunset from The Summit Bar at Pan Pacific...Gunners’ Memorial Hanoi - 🇻🇳 Gunners’ Memorial Hanoi – A Silent Witness of Courage and History📍 Location: North of Quan Thanh Temple, along Thanh Nien Street, Hanoi🕒 Open 24/7 • Free Entry 💫 Introduction: Where History Meets the Lakeside Peace of Hanoi As you stroll along Thanh Nien Street, the tree-lined causeway separating West Lake (Ho Tay) and Truc Bach Lake, you’ll come across a modest yet profoundly symbolic monument — the Gunners’ Memorial. Though small in size, this landmark holds immense historical and emotional weight. It honors the Vietnamese anti-aircraft units who defended Hanoi during the American War (Vietnam War), and it marks the very site where U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander John McCain’s plane was shot down in October 1967. Today, the Gunners’ Memorial is more than just a war relic — it’s a poignant reminder of resilience, reconciliation, and how far Vietnam has come since those turbulent years. In 2025, with Hanoi’s lakeside neighborhoods thriving with life and culture, this quiet memorial stands as a powerful symbol of peace and remembrance. ⚔️ A Glimpse Back in Time: The Story Behind the Memorial During the intense bombing campaigns of the late 1960s, anti-aircraft defense teams were stationed around Hanoi to protect key government buildings and cultural landmarks. The Gunners’ Memorial pays tribute to those brave soldiers who operated anti-aircraft cannons in the area — a crucial part of Hanoi’s defense network. On October 26, 1967, during an airstrike over Hanoi, Lieutenant Commander John McCain’s A-4 Skyhawk was struck by a missile launched from this very position. His plane crashed into Truc Bach Lake, just a few meters away from where the memorial now stands. Locals rushed to rescue McCain from the lake before he was taken prisoner — an event that would shape his life for years to come. McCain spent over five years as a prisoner of war in Hoa Lo Prison (nicknamed the “Hanoi Hilton”) before being released in 1973. 🕊️ From Conflict to Connection: The Story’s Human Side What makes this site truly remarkable is not just its wartime legacy, but the spirit of reconciliation it embodies today. When John McCain returned to Hanoi decades later as a U.S. Senator, he stood beside the very lake where he had fallen — not as an enemy, but as a guest and a symbol of friendship between two former foes. Vietnam and the United States have since developed strong diplomatic and economic ties, and sites like the Gunners’ Memorial remind visitors how history, though painful, can evolve into mutual respect and understanding. Standing at the memorial in 2025, you’ll see local couples taking photos, children riding bicycles, and vendors selling coconut ice cream by the lake — everyday life flowing peacefully where once war raged. 🏛️ What to See at the Gunners’ Memorial The memorial itself is small but evocative — a stone monument engraved in Vietnamese, surrounded by flowering shrubs and shaded by tamarind and flame trees. It’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it, but the simplicity adds to its charm and solemnity. 🔹 Inscription: The plaque honors the anti-aircraft gunners who “bravely fought and shot down enemy planes over Truc Bach Lake.”🔹 Scenic Backdrop: The site offers a serene view of Truc Bach Lake, with reflections of surrounding trees and small cafés — perfect for quiet contemplation.🔹 Nearby Attractions: Within walking distance are Quan Thanh Temple, Tran Quoc Pagoda, and several lakeside coffee shops where you can sit and soak in Hanoi’s tranquil beauty. 📷 Travel Tips for 2025 Visitors ⏰ Best Time to Visit: Early morning or just before sunset, when the light over Truc Bach Lake is golden and soft — ideal for photography. 🚶 Getting There: It’s about a 10-minute taxi or motorbike ride from Hanoi Old Quarter. You can also walk along Thanh Nien Street if you’re exploring nearby West Lake. ☕ Where to Rest: After visiting, grab a seat at one of Truc Bach’s cozy lakeside cafés such as Maison de Tet Décor or The Coffee House. Both offer great views and relaxing vibes. 🎧 Combine It With: Visiting Quan Thanh Temple (Guardian of the North) and Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist pagoda in Hanoi — both just a short stroll away. 🧭 Why You Should Visit For travelers interested in Vietnam’s layered history, the Gunners’ Memorial is a must-visit stop. It’s not a grand or heavily visited landmark, but its quiet dignity captures something deeply human — the endurance of memory, the cost of peace, and the beauty of moving forward. Here, history doesn’t shout; it whispers across the calm waters of Truc Bach Lake. You’ll feel the stillness, the reflection — both literal and emotional — that makes Hanoi so captivating. ❤️ Final Thoughts: A Small Monument with a Big Message In a city where ancient temples, colonial architecture, and modern cafés coexist harmoniously, the Gunners’ Memorial serves as a gentle yet powerful bridge between Hanoi’s past and present. It reminds visitors that while the city continues to grow and modernize — with electric scooters, tech startups, and vibrant nightlife — the soul of Hanoi remains grounded in remembrance, gratitude, and humanity. If you ever find yourself wandering between West Lake and Truc Bach Lake, pause here for a few quiet minutes. Listen to the breeze rustling through the trees, watch the ripples on the lake’s surface, and reflect on how far the world has come since 1967. ✨ Travel Tip Recap✅ Location: Thanh Nien Street, between West Lake & Truc Bach Lake✅ Entry: Free, open 24 hours✅ Nearby: Quan Thanh Temple, Tran Quoc Pagoda, Truc Bach cafés✅ Best time: Sunrise or sunset for the most peaceful atmosphere 🌿 Hanoi’s Gunners’ Memorial isn’t just about history — it’s about hope.A story of courage, survival, and the quiet strength that defines Vietnam’s capital.