Vietnam offers unique incentive experience

HANOI For the corporate meeting or incentive travel reward, Vietnam has great possibilities, though at this stage only for small groups and with travellers who are not squeamish about Third World conditions. For those prepared to take the rough with the smooth, Vietnam is one of the world's great travel adventures. The commercial hub of Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) and the capital Hanoi have first-class hotels. In Hanoi these include Nikko, two Sofitels and a Hilton. HCMC has the Sofitel Saigon Plaza, the Caravelle, Prince and Rex in the business district. All have meetings and banqueting facilities. Hanoi and the World Heritage Halong Bay in north Vietnam provide an ideal twin destination for a four-day programme. Hanoi, the nation's capital, is also a cultural centre and still boasts architecture from the French colonial era in its boulevards. The city has a number of large parks surrounding picturesque lakes. Obtaining permission for the use of public areas for off-site events can be a challenge in Vietnam, but the 10th century Temple of Literature, set in gardens in the heart of the city, can be used for evening functions, without difficulty. Another option is a cruise along West Lake - a pleasant way to close off a day of touring and shopping. Sydney-based Classic Oriental Tours managing director Mr Trevor Lake, suggested 60 is the ideal maximum for an incentive group doing Hanoi and Halong. "Must-do's" for Hanoi include the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the famous Water Puppet show and a cyclo tour (rickshaw) around the city. "We recommend September as the weather is cooler and better rates can be negotiated," he said. Pictures simply cannot do Halong Bay justice. More than 3,000 sheer islands rising from the sea like the scales on a dragon's back. Luxury timber junks ply its quiet waters, serving seafood and calling in to deserted coves. As a guideline, the retail rate for overnight on a junk is around the $US30 mark.