Vietnam is a charming country with much to commend itself to the curious traveler. Tourism is one of the fastest growing sectors of the economy, and visitors are attracted by the delicious food, spectacular beaches, and warm-hearted people.
Despite Vietnam's current popularity as a tourist destination, the country has a complex history of colonization and conflict.
To fully appreciate its present delights, it is helpful to understand what has led Vietnam to become the wonder that it is today.
For over a millennium, North Vietnam was ruled by China. As a result, Vietnam adopted China's political and educational systems, along with Confucianism. After the Chinese were driven out, Le Thai To became the first emperor of the country and moved the capital to Hanoi. A monument to Le can be seen in Ly Thai To Park in Hanoi.
