Photo: iStock/cristaltran

Hạ Long Bay, Vietnam

If it seems like everyone you know is traveling to Vietnam these days, it’s true: the Asian country is a popular destination thanks to its stunning scenery, affordable hotels, and delicious food. Last year, the country made it easier to arrive as a tourist by launching a new online e-visa, which lasts 90 days. Hạ Long Bay, located in the northeast of Vietnam, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its shimmering water and thousands of small islands. Book a waterfront resort like Hôtel Perle d'Orient Cat Ba or base yourself in Hạ Long, from where travelers can embark on an overnight cruise of the bay with a luxury line like Orchid Classic. Adventurers will love the outdoor activities, like kayaking, caving, and parasailing, and the Hạ Long night market is a must-do for shopping and street food. The area is best reached from Hanoi, although visitors can also fly from Da Nang or Ho Chi Minh City.