Central Vietnam’s premier beach town, Nha Trang, where “Zen tours” are becoming more popular

As people bite their nails over economic concerns and other stresses of modern life, more tourists are opting for “Zen tours” as a way to escape and ease their worried minds.

Zen tourism focuses on obtaining a balance between the spirit and body while getting closer to nature.

According to Thai Air hostess Som-O, an increasing number of Thais are opting for Zen tours in Vietnam.

She said that as stress and economic worries build, people are more attracted to the idea of a relaxing Zen tour.

In Vietnam, Zen tours often feature Yoga classes, meditation, spa therapy and visits to pagodas, temples, monasteries and other spiritual sites.

Zen tours in Vietnam offer travelers the chance to experience Buddhist culture firsthand by joining monks and nuns in their daily routines as well as by enjoying traditional Buddhist meals at pagodas.

Pagodas and Buddhist monasteries all over the country provide venues for Zen tourism.

Truc Lam Tay Thien in Vinh Phuc Province, Ba Da and Tran Quoc pagodas in Hanoi, Giac Lam and Giac Vien in Ho Chi Minh City, and Truc Lam Monastery in Central Highlands’ Da Lat Town are some of the most popular.

Beach towns like Nha Trang in Khanh Hoa Province and Vung Tau in Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province are also hot spots for Zen tourists seeking serene beaches and nature-friendly resorts.

The local Ba Ria-Vung Tau government has committed to investing VND30 billion (US$1.72 million) in a Zen tourist site at the Chon Khong Monastery. The site will be designed for Yoga practice, meditation and calligraphy while also hosting a Buddhist museum and offering tea ritual performances.

Zen spas and Zen cafes are also being featured in many Zen tours to attract younger customers.

Anh Anh Travel (9 Nguyen Du Street in Nha Trang) and Vietravel (190 Pasteur Street, District 3, HCMC) both offer a variety of Zen tours.

Reported by Kim