Vietnam is one of the first countries in Southeast Asia to legalize same-sex marriage and recognized transgender rights in 2015. This has demonstrated the government's openness and helped Vietnam become an attractive market for the LGBT community.

Vietnam has always been friendly to the LGBTIQ+ community. Everyone should be free to be themselves, no matter who they are, where they live, and who they love. Photo: Adrian Anh Tuấn

As part of its mission to make it easier for everyone to experience the world, no matter who they love or how they identify, and in celebration of Pride 2023, Booking.com is highlighting four LGBTQ+-friendly destinations in Vietnam. From vibrant capital cities to tropical beach retreats, these havens encourage LGBTQ+ travelers to express themselves freely.

Cam Ranh

Paradise in a bay, Cam Ranh is ready to steal crowns as it skyrockets to become the top resort destination in southern Vietnam. With exceptional beaches and a relaxing atmosphere, Cam Ranh has it all for a healing vacation.

Because the beaches and resorts here are often uncrowded, visitors to Cam Ranh can enjoy a luxurious getaway in private. Apart from sunbathing and water sports, adventurous visitors can sign up for a half-day trekking and cliff-jumping tour at Ba Ho Waterfall.

Couples can enjoy a romantic Guided Luxury Sunset City Cruise, taking in the breathtaking beauty of Nha Trang Bay while savoring a delicious cocktail session followed by a five-course gourmet seafood dinner.

The Cam Ranh Bay, Nha Trang. Photo: Kim Trang

Hoi An

With a history dating back to the 16th century, Hoi An is a picturesque destination filled with ancient buildings and traditional culture. These are prominently showcased through many museums, such as the Hoi An Folklore Museum and the Museum of Trade Ceramics...

The canals running between the Chinese and Japanese influenced architecture have earned the old town of Hoi An the nickname "Venice of Vietnam", making it one of the main tourist attractions in the city. At night, Hoi An is illuminated by thousands of lanterns, an iconic feature of the city. Visitors can sign up for a lantern making class to create their own version of a traditional Vietnamese lantern - a symbol of luck, prosperity and happiness.

Hoi An Ancient Town. Photo: Nguoi Hoi An

Uong Bi City

In recent years, Uong Bi has become increasingly popular among travel enthusiasts for its pristine natural scenery and spiritual destinations. Blessed by nature, Uong Bi is endowed with beautiful lakes, mountains and forests.

Nature lovers will recommend the town as there are so many activities to explore, from a hiking tour of Cat Ba National Park, which takes you through the tropical forest, to enjoy a local lunch and end the day with a boat trip to Monkey Island, to a more spiritual adventure with a full day tour of Yen Tu Mountain, a sacred land where Emperor Nhan Tong (1258-1308) lived and led a religious life after passing the throne to his son.

The Dong Pagoda at the top of Yen Tu Mountain. Photo: Legacy Yen Tu- M-Gallery

Ha Long Bay

Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Gulf of Tonkin, comprises some 1,600 islands and islets forming a spectacular seascape of limestone pillars. The enchanting Halong Bay needs little introduction as a wonderful destination with spectacular scenery and an abundance of things to do. The vibrant city of Halong itself also has a number of features to explore.

Cave exploring, with unique geological and archaeological values dating back thousands of years, is a must-do activity in Halong. Tourists can choose either a half-day Halong Bay Cruise and Cave Visit tour or a Sunset and Evening Adventure at Cat Ba Local to make the most of their time here.

The magnificent Halong Bay. Photo: Halong Tourism