Vietnam is a traveller's dream. Located in easternmost Indochina, the country is a haven for holidaymakers who can enjoy being lulled by gentle waves of the South China sea or explore the miles of jungle packed with wildlife and exotic plants. It has a long history, dating back several thousand years and sadly tainted more recently by the Vietnam War which ended in 1975. But while those in Vietnam are proud of their heritage, travellers are welcomed with open arms as the country looks to the future and prosperity - mainly through tourism.

The war now conjures up images of devastation in much of Vietnam's rainforests but in fact, these areas are thriving and are a great place for any intrepid travellers to start their adventures. The country has around 87 national parks which contain some of the highest levels of biodiversity in the world. Each is unique in what it can offer travellers both in terms of landscape and the flora and fauna that make their home there. Those who are outdoor activity enthusiasts are invited to head to Cat Ba National Park – a beautiful reserve located on the island of Cat Ba. Its terrain is more of a challenge than some other sanctuaries but it is the ideal spot for hikers and nature enthusiasts who are keen on an adventure. The park is home to more than 600 species of plant and is abundant in animal life. Wild boar and deer roam the forest floor, while the trees are alive with lizards and monkeys. Other attractions of Cat Ba include the natural landscape itself – with intriguing limestone rock formations, spectacular waterfalls and mysterious caves and grottoes.

If its caves you are after, however, experts recommend a trip to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park - north of Truong Son range in Quang Binh. This park is a haven for cavers and explorers, with 95 per cent of the park being taken up by grottoes and natural underground tunnels. Already a major tourist attraction, the area is also popular with scientists and researchers keen to learn more about Vietnam's natural delights.

For those who want to step away from the jungles and into the cities there is also plenty to entertain. Vietnam's culture is varied and abundant with numerous festivals and events held throughout the year. Spiritual influences come from Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism and Christianity and some traditions and rituals date back to ancient Vietnam. Tet is probably the biggest event of the year and is usually held in early February. During this week-long celebration to welcome in the spring, people across the country enjoy a mix of both quiet meditation and more noisy celebrations with fireworks and drums. It is one of around 20 festivals held in Vietnam which are both traditional and religious.

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