Vietnam Basics

Population

Currently there are 54 ethnic groups in Vietnam, although the Kinh (Viet) people make up almost 90% of the population.

Government

There is currently a single-party constitutional republic, which is the Communist Party (CPV)

Economic

Although the GDP continues to grow, the per capita income is currently only $1,052

Cities Fulbrighters will visit

Hanoi

The city is sacred land in Vietnam, established by Ly Thai To in 1010 during the Ly Dynasty. Hanoi is in the northern portion of Vietnam.

Hue’

Much of this city’s cultural history has been maintained, as the city has maintained its basic structure since the Middle Ages. It was recognized as a World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1993.

Danang

This city continues to deal with the long-term impact of Agent Orange dropped by the U.S. during the Vietnam War. In 2010, the United States government paid $37 million to help with on-going cleanup efforts. This is also the location of the famous Danang Cathedral, which accommodates more than 4000 members for mass.

Hoi An

Just south of Danang, this city contains houses made of rare wood and decorated with lacqureerd boards and engraved panals. Lying on the Thu Bon River, this city was one of the major trading centers of Southeast Asia in the 16^th century.

Ho Chi Minh City

Known as Saigon before 1976, Ho Chi Mihn is the second most important city in the country after Hanoi. It is a significant technological, industrial and tourist center in the country.