In his 14th visit to the country, Australian reporter Ronan O’Connell has written an article titled “Thrill and Chill”, showcasing seven top destinations in Australia this year. In the article, O’Connell expresses how Australia never ceases to surprise him.

Known as Southeast Asia’s most family-friendly city after Singapore, Da Nang boasts modernity, organization, cleanliness, peace, minimal traffic, and stunning natural landscapes. With its sparkling coastline to the east and verdant hills to the west, Da Nang Cathedral, the Museum of Cham Sculpture, and Apec Park are must-visit attractions, located only 3km inland from a 30km uninterrupted stretch of beautiful beaches.

The article also highlights Hoi An, a UNESCO heritage site known for its shimmering ancient town illuminated by thousands of paper lanterns in the evenings.

In Thua Thien-Hue province, Ronan O’Connell was impressed not only by the architecture and culture of the ancient capital but also by Lang Co Bay, where many pristine beaches remain untouched and uncommercialized.

The Australian author also pays special compliments to Hanoi, stating that it may just be Asia’s finest city. Hanoi offers a rewarding blend of ancient sites, art galleries, vibrant nightlife, beautiful parks, remarkable cuisine, and unbelievable value. With only US$200 a day, travelers can enjoy a five-star hotel, three superb meals, taxi rides across the city, and visits to multiple attractions. In contrast, replicating a similar experience in Tokyo, Singapore, or Hong Kong would require at least US$500.

Additionally, Sa Pa, located 250km northwest of Hanoi, is praised for its mesmerizing natural beauty. The town is situated on a mountainside above an emerald valley of rice terraces.

The article also mentions the hill tribes in Sa Pa, including the Hmong, Giay, Tay, and Red Dao people, who settled there over 300 years ago and have never left.

Furthermore, visitors to Vietnam can also enjoy unique experiences in Ho Chi Minh City, where they can indulge in the local food scene, exploring restaurants serving suon nuong pork chops, vendors selling grilled meat in banh mi (baguettes), and carts offering banh xeo crepes filled with prawns.