Topping the list is tasting imperial Vietnamese cuisine in Hue. The guide notes that more than half of the country’s estimated 3,000 local dishes are believed to have originated here, from the vermicelli-based bun bo Hue and crispy banh khoai pancakes with shrimp and pork, to canapé-like banh it ram dumplings. “For many travelers, Hue is all about the food,” it wrote.

Cooking classes rank second, offering travelers a chance to shop at local markets for fresh herbs and ingredients before preparing dishes such as summer rolls and pho. Hoi An is highlighted as the most popular destination for aspiring chefs, though Hue, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City also have reputable schools.

Other activities in the top 10 include exploring the imperial Nguyen tombs in Hue, visiting the Cao Dai Holy See in Tay Ninh, cruising through Ha Long Bay’s striking karst seascape, discovering Vietnam’s religious history in My Son, riding a motorbike through the highlands, trekking in Sapa, savoring coffee in the Central Highlands, and caving in Phong Nha-Ke Bang.

Ranked 11th is unwinding on Vietnam’s beaches, with Phu Quoc, Da Nang and Con Dao among the standouts.

Rounding out the list are a boat tour along the Mekong Delta, sightseeing in Ho Chi Minh City, and exploring the vibrant mix of tradition and modernity in Hanoi.

Lonely Planet picks out Hanoi of Vietnam among 10 dream trips in Asia

VOV.VN - World renowned travel guide Lonely Planet recently revealed its list of 10 dream trips to take in Asia this year, with Hanoi and the surrounding areas making the cut.