If you’re seeking a vacation destination that offers adventure, culture and warmth, then consider visiting Vietnam and Cambodia in Southeast Asia. These countries provide a fantastic experience that can broaden your horizons, challenge your perspectives and expose you to unfamiliar cultures and ways of life.

These countries have been shaped by their turbulent histories, including periods of colonisation, war and political upheaval. As a result, they have developed unique cultures that are worth exploring.

Vietnam is known for its stunning natural beauty, delicious cuisine and friendly people. It is also famous for its role in the Vietnam War, which lasted from the 1950s to the mid-1970s. Today, it is a rapidly developing country that is home to bustling cities, beautiful beaches, and incredible landscapes. From the busy streets of Hanoi to the stunning mountains of Sapa, Vietnam offers travellers a diverse range of experiences.

Cambodia, on the other hand, is known for its ancient history and magnificent temples. It was home to the Khmer empire, which ruled from the 9th to the 15th Century and built some of the world’s most impressive religious structures. The most famous of these is Angkor Wat, a massive temple complex that is the largest religious monument in the world. This country has also experienced its share of turmoil, including a brutal regime under the Khmer Rouge in the 1970s. The country has rebounded from its nightmare and is now a popular destination for travellers looking to explore its rich history and culture.

Both countries offer a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern developments, making them fascinating travel destinations. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient temples or trying delicious street food, there is something for everyone in Vietnam and Cambodia.

Throughout my journey, I was struck by the warmth and generosity of the people I encountered. Despite the language barrier, the locals were always friendly and welcoming. Their smiles could light up a room.

My recent 10-night, 11-day getaway to Vietnam and Cambodia left a lasting mark on me. I can see why Southeast Asia is increasingly becoming a popular travel destination. During my trip, I met people from around the world, including Australia, the UK and Canada. It was amazing to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and cultures and to learn about their values and traditions. However, the locals in Vietnam and Cambodia truly stole my heart. Despite the language barrier, they were always friendly and welcoming; their smiles could light up a room.

My first destination was Hanoi. I was swept away by the vibrant energy of the city’s historic district. The streets were bustling with the enticing fragrances of street food and the colourful sights of small shops. The Anatolia Hotel was a welcome getaway from the colourful buzz and bustle of Hanoi’s old quarter. There, I was greeted with a delightful passion fruit cocktail and warm smiles from the kind employees. The true adventure began when I met Junie, a local team member who introduced me to the tantalising world of Vietnamese bubble tea and took me on an exhilarating journey to some of the city’s most iconic monuments.

The next day, I went to Ninh Binh, a fascinating place that provided an unforgettable experience. On the third day of my trip, I set off on an unforgettable adventure to Ha Long Bay. The awe-inspiring scenery of the limestone cliffs and the emerald ocean was simply breathtaking. Exploring the bay by cruise was a wonderful experience I will never forget.

After leaving Hanoi, I went to Da Nang, where I toured the enchanting town of Hoi An, which soon became my favourite spot in Vietnam. A boat ride in town was a fantastic experience. The next day I ventured to the Golden Hand Bridge in Bana Hills. The mountain area near Da Nang, Vietnam, provides magnificent city views and a range of attractions, such as a French town, a wax museum and the famed Golden Bridge.

The final portion of my journey led me to the Cu Chi Tunnels. I was blown away by the vibrant street life and delicious cuisine in Vietnam. There was always something new to discover, from the bustling markets to the quiet villages.

My landing in Siem Reap, Cambodia, marked the end of my trip to Vietnam. This shift to a new country was an exciting and engaging experience because it allowed me to explore another part of Southeast Asia. The prospect of exploring a new country and culture had heightened my sense of adventure and I excitedly anticipated the next stage of my journey.

The Angkor temples in Cambodia were undoubtedly one of the most memorable highlights of my Southeast Asia tour. The temples, built in the 12th Century, are a remarkable accomplishment of architecture and engineering. The temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site, bear witness to Cambodia’s rich cultural history. As I explored the temples, I was astounded by the detailed and magnificent sculptures that decorated the walls, as well as the sheer grandeur of the buildings. Each temple had its own unique features and stories. The experience was humbling and gave me an insight into Cambodia’s rich and interesting history.

Aside from the temples, I also discovered that Cambodia had a rich and diverse culinary scene. The street food in Siem Reap was delicious and varied, with flavours and spices new to my taste buds. I also visited a local market where I could sample fresh fruits and vegetables and learn about the traditional cooking techniques used in Cambodian cuisine.

Throughout my journey, I was struck by the warmth and generosity of the people I encountered. It was clear that community and family were at the heart of Cambodian culture. It was heartwarming to see how close-knit and supportive the people were.

My journey to Vietnam and Cambodia was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that left a lasting impression on me. The vibrant energy of Hanoi, the breathtaking scenery of Ha Long Bay, the enchanting town of Hoi An, and the awe-inspiring Angkor temples were just some of the highlights of my trip. Southeast Asia is worth considering if you’re looking for a travel destination full of adventure, culture and warmth.

The writer is the marketing head at a travel company