Buon Ma Thuot or Ban Me Thuat is located deep in the Central Highlands, about 360 km from Sai Gon. Buon Ma Thuot by far is relatively off the beaten track. But the area is certainly worth the trip.
Buon Ma Thuot offers the travelers the fresh nature beauty characterized by temperate climate, waterfalls, rivers, lakes and national parks. Buon Ma Thuot is home the number of ethnic minorities of which the century-old traditions are well kept. Traveling in this area the visitor should not miss a memorable night sharing the traditional dance with a local ethnic group by the fire.

Nearly all minority groups living in the central highlands are indigenous peoples: most are matrilineal societies with a strong emphasis on community life and with some particularly complex burial rites. Catholic missionaries enjoyed considerable success in the central highlands, establishing a mission at Kon Tum in the mid-nineteenth century, and then early in the twentieth century Protestantism was also introduced to the region. Most converts came from among the Ede and Bahnar, though other groups have also incorporated Christian prac tices into their traditional belief systems. Likewise, Vietnamese influence has been stronger here than in northern Vietnam, while the American War caused severe disruption. Nevertheless, their cultures have been sufficiently strong to resist complete assimilation.

Komtum is a small town sitting in the middle or in proximity of several ethnic villages. This town was also the site of some major battles during the conflict with the Americans. Even today, decaying weapons and shells abound. One of he places that you should visit is Pleiku. It has a large friendly indigenous population and can be visited on foot from Kontum. Because of the necessity to access this village on foot, as a result they have had limited exposure to tourism and they are still happy to see foreigners. On the road you will get a be able to see some of the traditional houses built on stilts. There are also some waterfalls further out of the town that can be visited by motorbike.

Pleiku is a town with a large ethnic minority. Pleiku marks the junction of roads leading to Kontum, Buon Ma Thuot and Qui Nhon. This town was almost totally destroyed during the Vietnam War as it was home to an American base. If you intend being here during the monsoon season, you should know that Pleiku boasts the highest rainfall in the Central Highlands.

Dalat has a charming French district which is located behind the Rap 3-4 cinema. It is well worth exploring. It is also in the French District where a number of the hotels are situated. In the center of town there is a large fresh produce market which sells some of the nicest strawberries (when in season) that you can ever hope to taste!

This town is also the center of kitsch in Vietnam. Keep an eye out for the Dalat Cowboys, who ride around the town on horseback. For relaxation, you may want to take a ride on a swan boat on the lake or even buy one of the dozens of different types of souvenirs available in the market.