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Luscious beauty everywhere, from delicate design to technicolour sunsets.
Most visitors to Vietnam are overwhelmed by the sublime beauty of the country's natural setting: the Red River Delta in the north, the Mekong Delta in the south and almost the entire coastal strip are a patchwork of brilliant green rice paddies tended by women in conical hats.
The world's rarest land mammal, the Javan rhinoceros, is found in Vietnam and Indonesia. An estimated 60 specimens remain.
There are some divine beaches along the coast, while inland there are soaring mountains, some of which are cloaked by dense, misty forests. Vietnam also offers an opportunity to see a country of traditional charm and rare beauty rapidly opening up to the outside world.
Typhoon Lekima hit Vietnam's central coast on September 3, causing widespread damage and flooding. Worst affected are the provinces of Thahn Hoa, Nghe An, Qang Binh and Ha Tinh. Further heavy rains have brought flood conditions to Qang Ngai, Qang Tri and Qang Nam. Transport and communications in these areas may be disrupted; travellers should check with travel agents and seek local advice. Adverse weather conditions can be expected throughout the typhoon season.
