Danang, Vietnam

Danang is a small town in Vietnam, situated about one hundred kilometers south of Hue on the South China Sea. This small town, strategically located between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, has witnessed many important events and is extremely significant in recent Vietnamese history. Often considered to be one of Vietnam’s future tourism centers, Danang has a lot to offer, and in wide variety. In addition to beautiful beaches, and the Marble Mountains, Danang’s central location makes it the perfect spot from which to explore Vietnam.

	History		What to See
	Visa Requirements		Currency Exchange
	Getting There

Although a small town, Danang has played a major, albeit somewhat tragic role in recent Vietnamese history. It was at Danang that French and Spanish forces first arrived in Vietnam in 1858. Barely a year later, those same forces took Saigon, leading to the eventual colonization of Vietnam. Danang also played a significant role in the Vietnam War. Danang was one of the central transportation locations for the American war effort in Vietnam, and for a period during the war was actually the busiest airport in the world. Danang is also the site of China Beach, made famous by the American TV series.

Despite its tragic history, Danang is a city on the rise. Plans are in progress to make Danang a first-class resort area, similar to Pattaya, Thailand. Luxury resorts are under construction, as is a golf course; and Danang’s central location, in addition to the beautiful beaches and surrounding environs, should make this venture successful.

Travelers are advised to arrange the entry visa to Vietnam before embarking on the trip. This can be taken care of at most travel agencies in Bangkok, and a 30-day tourist visa costs US $40.00.

Bangkok International Airport is the gateway to Vietnam, offering flights to both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. The government airline, Vietnam Air, keeps competition to a minimum, however Thai Airways also offers service to both cities. Flights to Vietnam are usually about an hour and a half to two hours.

Vietnam Air also offers domestic flights from both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Danang.

Danang’s location offers the visitor a variety of travel options. Apart from the beaches and scenery in and around Danang, day trips are also possible to Hue and Hoi An. Below are some suggestions of what to see.

The Marble Mountains
The Marble Mountains are a set of five stunning limestone peaks near Danang. During the Vietnam War, these peaks were primarily held by the Viet Cong. It is now possible to climb one of the Marble Mountains, up a long flight of carved steps, and the view of the surrounding territory is outstanding.

China Beach
Although there is some dispute among locals as to which beach is the real China Beach, the entire stretch of beach offers great places to relax and enjoy the sun. Scuba and snorkeling are offered, as well as a number of other water sports.

Hue
Only a hundred kilometers to the north of Danang is the city of Hue, reputed to be the most beautiful city in all of Vietnam. This city was the capital of Vietnam from 1802 until 1945, and offers a number of activities, ranging from swimming to historical sightseeing. A trip to Hue is really an excursion in and of itself, and a few days are needed to really enjoy it completely.

Hoi An
30 kilometers south of Danang is the town of Hoi An, which was an important Southeast Asian seaport in the exchange of eastern and western commodities from the 15^th through 17^th centuries. As proof of its significance, Hoi An was recently added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. Hoi An is an easy day trip from Danang, and its architecture offers a unique look at different cultures that have passed through the area.

The Vietnamese currency is the dong, which converts at the rate of approximately 14,000 dong to one US dollar. US cash is still accepted in many places, and can be exchanged at banks, exchange booths, or on the black market.

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