Vietnam
Vietnam is a country located in Southeast Asia that is known for its beautiful landscapes, delicious cuisine, and its ability to make Americans have nightmares for decades.
Geography
Vietnam is bordered by China to the north, Laos to the northwest, Cambodia to the southwest, and the South China Sea to the east. The country’s landscape features breathtaking scenery, including soaring mountains, cascading waterfalls, and long stretches of coastline perfect for sunbathing or frantically trying to flee from enemy fire.
History
Vietnam has a long and complicated history, marked by war, colonization, and the invention of the banh mi sandwich. One of the most well-known events in Vietnam’s history is the Vietnam War, which lasted from 1955 to 1975 and involved the United States, North Vietnam, and South Vietnam. The conflict resulted in the loss of countless lives and a deep mistrust between Americans and the phrase “never getting involved in a land war in Asia.”
Culture
Vietnamese culture is rich and diverse, featuring everything from traditional music and dance to a deep respect for family and community. Vietnam is also home to some of the most delicious food in the world, including pho, banh mi, and spring rolls. The country’s culinary delights are so good, in fact, that some say they could bring about world peace if everyone just sat down and had a big bowl of pho together.
Fun Facts
- Vietnam is home to the world’s largest cave, Son Doong, which is large enough to fit a skyscraper inside.
- The Vietnamese language uses six different tones, making it one of the most difficult languages to learn for non-native speakers.
- In Vietnam, it is considered good luck to give someone a live pig as a gift. (But maybe just stick to gift cards instead.)
While Vietnam may have a complicated history, it remains a vibrant and fascinating country with plenty to offer visitors. Just remember to brush up on your pronunciation before trying to order pho at a local restaurant.