Posted on by Chad F.

Vietnam is a rapidly-growing Southeast Asian nation with much to offer, both in terms of its splendid natural and cultural heritage, as well as economically. After years of a centrally planned economy, Vietnam is fast opening up to the world, and is gaining popularity as an offshore destination for many big companies worldwide. In recent years, Vietnam has seen a sharp increase in foreign investment, which can be an indicator of increased confidence in the country and its growth.

Ho Chi Minh City

One of Vietnam’s biggest cities, along with Hanoi, this tropical gem was formerly known as Saigon, and then renamed after one of the founding fathers of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh. As the biggest city in Southern Vietnam, it boasts a population of more than 9 million people, making it the singularly largest metropolitan area in the country.

Hanoi

Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam, as well as the largest city in the northern part of the country. Its unique urban landscape comprises of both colonial-style architecture, as well as more modern skyscrapers. In the past, Hanoi had served as the capital of French Indochina, and then as the capital of North Vietnam before reunification. The Hanoi Capital Region, as Hanoi and its surrounding urban areas are known as, is expected to see rapid population growth, bringing its total population to more than 15 million people by 2020.

Da Nang

Da Nang is a major port city in southern Vietnam. A popular tourist destination, Da Nang enjoys close proximity to a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and is a transportation hub for both land and sea routes. Tourism plays a huge role in Da Nang’s economy. Da Nang’s Marble Mountains and the My Son archaeological site are some of the most popular tourist spots in the city. Economically, Da Nang is the third biggest city in the country, after Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Currently, Da Nang is witnessing a construction boom, much of which is capitalizing on Da Nang’s excellent waterfront location in order to build marinas and waterfront housing.

Can Tho

Can Tho is the largest Vietnamese city on the Mekong Delta. It is also one of the largest cities in Vietnam, and is known for its canals and floating markets. Can Tho is accessible through its international airport, which opened in 2011. Traditionally, Can Tho was famous for its agricultural outputs, which included rice and tropical fruits. With a freshwater port and two industrial parks, Can Tho is poised to become one of Vietnam’s next powerhouses.

Hai Phong

Historically, the city of Hai Phong served as a coastal defense for Vietnam. Now, it is Vietnam’s most important seaport, replete with extensive maritime facilities and a deep-water seaport. Hai Phong’s history as a commercial port goes back centuries – by the time the French had arrived in Vietnam, Hai Phong was already a thriving commercial port. In addition to being a major port city, Hai Phong today is the second largest industrial center in Vietnam, as well as a significant agricultural center on the Red River Delta.

Do you live in a city that is fast growing too? Let us know!

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