See the famous Ha Long Bay with cheap flights to Vietnam on Air Asia.

Earlier this year, Jetstar announced it would be the only low-cost carrier flying directly from Australia to Ho Chi Minh City in May.

And now Air Asia has launched a massive sale with $129 one-way flights to Ho Chi Minh City departing the Gold Coast, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney.

So what’s the catch? Air Asia flights go via Kuala Lumpur — so it’s not a direct service. But still ridiculously cheap.

The sale is available until 26 February, 2017 for travel between 1 May, 2017 to 30 September, 2017.

CLEAR YOUR CALENDAR: $9 FLIGHTS

THREE HOTELS TO SUIT YOUR BUDGET IN HO CHI MINH CITY

13 TRICKS FOR BAGGING A CHEAP FLIGHT

ESCAPE READER TIPS FOR SEEING VIETNAM

The bustling Ho Chi Minh City.Source:istock

FIVE REASONS TO VISIT VIETNAM

1. Hoi An

Despite being one of Vietnam’s most popular tourist destinations, Hoi An retains its charms with

Lonely Planet calling it the country’s “most atmospheric and delightful town”. It’s got a gorgeous old town, great restaurants and cooking courses, and tailors’ shops for couture on the cheap, plus it’s a hub for day trips to scenic spots and beaches.

The lanterns of Hoi An. Picture: SuppliedSource:Supplied

2. Pho

No, that’s not a place name — we’re talking about Vietnam’s famous noodle soup. Perch yourself on a plastic stool at a roadside eatery and enjoy a bowl. Vietnam’s food is a major drawcard for visitors, with other highlights include banh mi — French baguettes with fillings such as pork belly and pate. The French also introduced coffee to Vietnam, and now it’s known for its strong, sweet brew. Oh, and of course, there’s cheap beer to wash down a hard day’s sightseeing.

Vietnamese Pho seller at the floating market.Source:istock

3. Halong Bay

This World Heritage site’s amazing limestone islands, rock formations and caves has become a wildly popular destination among visitors to the north. In 2012 it was named one of the New Wonders of the World. Overnight boat trips let visitors take in the full experience of the bay, but for those wanting to avoid the beaten path, Lan Ha Bay is a less visited option.

One of the new wonders of the world — Ha Long Bay.Source:Supplied

4. Da Lat

Voted one of Asia’s top destinations on the rise by reviewers on TripAdvisor, this former colonial resort in Vietnam’s central highlands provides a respite from Southern Vietnam’s year-round swelter. With French-era buildings, pine trees and farms growing exotic vegetables and flowers, it’s worth the trip to escape the heat for a few days.

Green tea fields in Da Lat.Source:istock

5. Con Dao Islands

Ranked among Asia’s hottest emerging destinations by Lonely Planet, this archipelago is the place to feast on fresh seafood, search for a perfect beach and revel in a castaway vibe.

Beautiful beaches at the Con Dao islands.Source:istock

Air Asia fares include airport taxes and surcharges. Limited availability, until sold out. Selected travel periods apply. Processing Fee of up to AU$10 may apply. Booking valid until 26 February 2017.

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