Introduction
1. LOCATION
Situated by Perfume River’s bank, Thua Thien Hue, once the royal kingdom of Vietnam, is one of the biggest city in Central Vietnam and middle way from Ha Noi (700 km away) and Ho Chi Minh City (1100 km away). Recognized for historical and cultural values, Hue has been titled as Unesco’s World Heritage Site.
2. BEST TIME TO VISIT HUE
February to April – Best Time to Visit Hue
These 4 months is the recommended period for an ideal trip to Hue, since it is the spring with the most pleasant weather for outdoor tours. The temperature is just slightly around 22 degree, and the air is cool with a little chilling drizzle. Therefore, it’s completely comfortable to go out and enjoy Hue to the fullest.
January and May is the second option
Although there may be more rains, they don’t cause many challenges for tourists as the temperature is still supportive enough.
June to July - Hot Season
You are still likely to visit Hue during this period, but be well-prepared for the boiling temperature of normally above 30 degrees. The only advantage of the crisp sun is that you can enjoy crystal beaches which exude there most charming stun during glistening sunlight.
August to December – Rainy Season
August is normally the peak season for domestic tourists as families have their outing trips before the rainy season from September to December. There are frequent rains for long hours, which discourage even the most exploration-thirsty tourists.
3. THINGS TO DO IN HUE
Attractions to visit
- Hue Citadel
Situated in the northern Perfume River, four areas are combined into the Capital City complex namely Imperial City of royal kingdoms, Forbidden City of the royal residence, Inner City and Tran Binh Dai of exquisitely ancient architecture.
As there are a lot about historical relics and cultural origin to dig deep into, you are recommended to spend the whole day at this site. Either hire a bike or a Vietnamese cycle if you don’t feel energetic enough for a walk around such a giant area.
- Emperors Tombs
As the former royal kingdom, Hue is home to various emperor tombs dotted along Perfume River. One of the most visited tombs is of Minh Mang King, established in 1843. This area is 18 hectares in size with strongly protective walls and different architectural buildings inside. Another site is of Tu Duc Tomb, which is situated in a pine forest.
- Pagodas
Not only a vital role in Hue’s religious life but also an iconic symbol is the range of pagodas with the most renowned being Thien Mu Pagoda. This 21m high octagonal structure boats the stunning design and charming surroundings to become a tourism hotspot in Hue.
- Beaches
Crystal beaches in Hue, like in other cities in Central Vietnam, are among the most prominent feature. Among all, highly recommended are Thuan An and Lang Co beaches, which boats the majestic spectacle of sprawling white sand and glowing water glistening under crips sunshine. You can also drop by mineral hot springs in Phong An, Phong Dien to immerse in relaxation and meditation.
- Culinary tour to savor
Don’t miss out on Hue’s cuisine, which has gone beyond food to become a elegant form of artistic masterpiece, treasuring time-honored royal traditions.
One of the most signature dishes in Hue is “baby clam rice”, which is a simple but savory combination of white rice and baby clams, seasoned with herbs, spices and other ingredients. Another delicacy is rice pastry with different centres like fried shrimp, roasted pork,etc.
In terms of sweet, don’t miss out on Hue’s royal offers, including purple sweet potatoes sweet soup, longan and lotus seed sweet soup, bean and rice sweet soup as the most famous savors.
4. THINGS TO BUY IN HUE
Peanut and Sesame Candy (Keo Me Xung)
This sweet delicacy is one of the most unique offer of Hue as used to be served with hot lotus tea in royal dinings. Nowadays, it has become commonplace as a savory snack for people of all ages and genders. Wander around the city and you would find stores or street vendors selling packs of candy bars. Some of the most popular brands are Nam Thuan, Song Hy, ThienHuong, Song Nhan.
Hue Nem and Tre
Nem is like sausage but made from local ingredients like minced pork, pork skin, fish sauce, chili. Similar to Nem but Tre may be made from beef, covered outside with fresh banana leaves. Dao Duy Tu Street is the most famous location for buying these stuffs.
The Conical Hat
Hue is a romantic land where you can find the prevailing sight of gorgeous young ladies wearing Ao Dai and conical hat ornamented with lyrics or poems. Not only a headwear but also a extraordinary symbol of this poetic city is conical hat, which is delicately crafted and decorated to become one of the best icons of Hue.
The Royal Tea
Drinking tea used to be a ritual of royal families but nowadays popular among all walks of life in Hue. With a slightly bitter flavor at first sips but sweet and savory after taste, royal tea deserves to be among the most delighting food you can take home.
5. THINGS TO BEAR IN MIND
- Mind the Rainy Season
As mentioned above, the rainy season in Hue is quite unpredictable. Should you visit Hue during this period, it is highly recommended that you prepare raincoat and portable umbrellas to minimize the effects of sudden and harsh downpours on your trip.
Always check the weather forecast
The rain may take place even in the hot season, so make sure you rely on a daily forecast to plan your trip accordingly.
- Mind your Hydration
This tip is especially vital in the hot season because you are highly likely to be dehydrated under the boiling heat. Bring along abundant water and consume enough greeneries and vitamins for the best physical condition.
Wear sunscreen and protective clothes
Another preparation to make is about clothing. You must pack sunblock jackets, caps and sunscreen to avoid severe sun shocking.
- Respect local culture and customs
- Mind your manners and behaviors at some sacred places as well as wear appropriate clothing.
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