Vietnam's History:

You should see us now!" We spotted that slogan on a tourism poster in the airport in Ho Chi Minh City. It is surprisingly appropriate. Once synonymous with tragedy and conflict, Vietnam is experiencing a rebirth. Historical sites are being restored, the country's economy is booming, and the infrastructure for tourism is developing rapidly. Now is a good time to visit.

The country's history of conflict -- conflict within, conflict with others -- could lead you to conclude that the Vietnamese thrive on a certain degree of contentiousness. That's just not the case these days. While the older Vietnamese may find the pace of change somewhat dizzying, there is overwhelming support for the advances the country is making. Tourism is helping Vietnam ride the crest of that wave. And it's one of the best travel bargains in Asia.

Climate:

If you plan to visit the entire country, the best months are October-December, when temperatures are relatively mild and nights are cool (highs around 88 F/31 C, lows around 71 F/22 C). Temperatures are lower in the northern part of the country, so take along a sweater or a jacket during this time of the year. January-March is foggy and drizzly in the north. The mountains can be quite cold in winter, with occasional snowfall at higher elevations. May-September is the hot, humid monsoon season in the south, when temperatures reach 92 F/33 C and fall to only about 76 F/24 C. Be warned that monsoons can turn roads to mud, so keep your travel plans flexible if visiting at that time of year.