Wander Vietnam

31 Vietnam Travel Tips | Essential Things You Need Know

If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, there are a few things that you need to know before you go. Here we have compiled a list of 31 essential travel tips to Vietnam. You will find everything, from tips you must know before you leave, to common tourist scams.

Old Japanese bridge in Hoi An

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Vietnam travel tips before you leave

1. don’t forget your visa.

The first, and most important, on this list of travel tips to Vietnam is your visa. Vietnam has strict entry requirements. Unlike backpacking in Thailand , where citizens from the UK and the USA get 30-day free visas on arrival, Vietnam requires that citizens from most countries have visa approvals before arriving. If you’re from the UK, you can now get up to 14 days of free entry without the need for a visa. However, if you wish to stay longer, you must apply for a visa. Make sure to check your government’s travel advice page to be sure. You can also click here to check if you need a visa .

2. Be mindful of the weather

The weather can impact your trip to Vietnam. Be mindful of the weather and region you intend to visit before booking. For example, if you’re heading away to chase the sun, you probably want to avoid the north of Vietnam from December through to March, as this is when temperatures drop to as low as 10 °C . If you want to head to the beaches in southern Vietnam, you will want to avoid the rainy season, which usually lasts from May to November.

3. Pack for all weathers

If you’re on a backpacking trip spanning the entire country , make sure to pack clothes that are suitable for all weather. You will need shorts and T-shirts when you’re in the south of Vietnam as the weather is constantly hot. As you move north, temperatures begin to drop. By the time you reach Sapa, you may need a thick coat and scarf to keep you warm.

Hotpot during winter in Hanoi

4. Plan your holiday around Tet

Travelling during the national holiday can be wonderful and you may find it extremely pleasant to witness the colourful celebrations. Depending on your outlook and the purpose of your trip, you may wish to plan or avoid your trip around the Tet holiday. If you’re in it for a cultural experience and don’t mind the crowds in places such as Hoi An , you will be in for a fantastic time. However, keep in mind that most shops and businesses shut down in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

5. Don’t plan your route too far in advance

If you’re on a wider 3-month Southeast Asia trip , it’s best not to plan your route too far in advance. Once you arrive, it is super easy to go with the flow. You can book hotels and transport at short notice. You may find you want to stay in a certain town or city longer than you intended. Likewise, you may find that you want to move on quicker than you expected.

6. Vietnam is cheap

You’ll be in for a shock when you realise how cheap Vietnam really is! Vietnam is one of the cheapest countries in the entire world. You can get a good night’s sleep in a bed for as little as $3 per night, and fill your belly with a bowl of Pho for as little as $1. As for sights and attractions, there are plenty of things you can do by yourself that cost little money. Wander around the many free temples, shop for cheap trinkets at the Hanoi night markets , ride bicycles through endless rice paddies in Hoi An, laze around on beaches in Phu Quoc, or explore mountains in Dalat by scooter.

For a more detailed post on the cost of travelling to Vietnam check out this post !

7. Don’t forget travel insurance

Vietnam is generally a safe country to travel to, but that doesn’t mean that accidents won’t happen. In any case, it’s a good idea to take out travel insurance before travelling. A top tip for travel in Vietnam is to make sure your insurance will cover you for riding a motorbike.

Hai Van Pass views on a motorbike

Vietnam travel tips for when you arrive

8. the best bank to use.

Withdrawing money from ATMs can often be stressful when you are in a new country. After living in Vietnam for over 5 years, we find that the best ATM to use is CitiBank. This bank allows you to withdraw up to 6,000,000 vnd ($20), in comparison to other banks that have a maximum withdrawal limit on foreign transactions of 3,000,0000 vnd ($130). On the note of using an ATM, always use ATMs in the daylight and preferably use one that is attached to a bank. That way, if there happen to be any issues you can easily just pop inside the bank to resolve them.

9. Use a currency converter on your phone

The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong. Once you arrive in this awesome country, you will quickly realise that everyone is a millionaire! $1 is equal to 22,000 vnd. With all the .000s that are added to the currency, working out the conversion rate is not so easy to wrap your head around. Make sure you download an offline currency converter on your phone so you can quickly work out the exchange rate. This will prevent you from overpaying for items and being ripped off.

10. Don’t get your banknotes confused

Speaking of money, some banknotes in Vietnam are of similar colour. Whilst the colour is similar, the value is far from the same. For example, you don’t want to mix up a 20,000 vnd ($1) note with a 500,000 vnd ($21.73) note. The difference is a little over $20!

11. Be mindful of your valuables

No matter where in the world you travel, you should always keep your eye on your valuables. However, in Vietnam, you should pay particular attention to your valuables when walking on the roadside. We can’t tell you how many times we have seen tourists casually standing close to the road with a camera in one hand, whilst looking down at their phone. It is not uncommon for thieves to drive past a scooter and try to rip your valuables from your grasp. Your precious belongings could be gone within a matter of seconds.

Vietnamese currency

12. Play chicken with bikes but not cars

Can you really say you’ve been to Vietnam if you didn’t cross the roads? Crossing the sea of motorbikes can be a little daunting. The trick here is to walk straight ahead, don’t jerk from side to side, and don’t try to dodge the motorbikes. They will go around you! In the UK, we look left, right and then cross over the road when there is no traffic coming. If you were to do this in Vietnam, you could spend the entire day trying to cross the road. It’s fine to walk out cautiously in front of bikes, but don’t try to cross if you can see oncoming cars or buses.

13. Knowing the language goes a long way

Before you start your trip to Vietnam, we recommend you buck up on some basic Vietnamese phrases. Such as, hello, how are you? and how much does it cost? Knowing a few numbers also helps too. Getting to grips with the basics will help you navigate through the country easier and help you when it comes to buying food, drink, tours, and souvenirs .

14. Wifi is available everywhere (almost)

Surprisingly, Vietnam is well connected to the web. Almost every coffee shop and eatery will have wifi that you can connect to for free. So, if you want to avoid splashing out on a sim card and data, there is no need to worry about connecting to the wifi whilst you’re out and about.

Vietnam travel tips for getting around

15. grab taxi is best for getting around cities.

If you need to use transport to get around the cities or towns, make sure to download the Grab app . Grab works a little like Uber. Just tap in your pick-up point and drop-off point. The app will let you know the price beforehand. This way, you are unlikely to get taken for a ride around the block and overcharged.

A sleeper train in Vietnam

16. No need to book transport too far in advance

If you’re using buses or trains to travel through Vietnam, don’t stress too much about booking too far in advance. Vietnam is a super relaxed country and you can easily hop on a bus or train on the same day (as long as it is not a major holiday). If you do want to book a few days in advance though, our favourite online booking site is Bookaway . You can search for all the transport providers and book directly on the website and have your ticket sent to your email address. Alternatively, you can usually book transport from your hotel, hostels, or a nearby tourist shop.

17. Motorbikes are great fun but don’t go crazy

Riding a motorbike in Vietnam is on almost everyone’s bucket list. After all, who wouldn’t want to scoot around the mountains in the motorbike capital of the world? Whilst motorbikes are a fantastic way to explore the country, it is important to remember not to get carried away. Always pay attention to the road and always wear a helmet. No one wants to spend the remainder of their trip hopping around in a leg cast.

18. Don’t miss these off-the-beaten-path places

Besides the regular backpacking trail , Vietnam has plenty of hidden gems to explore. For example, Dalat, in the Central Highlands is a mountainous paradise, that has been dubbed the honeymoon capital of Vietnam. It is the perfect destination for a lover’s retreat. In northern Vietnam, make sure you don’t miss out on places such as Ninh Binh, Mai Chau, and Sapa, which are perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Row boat in Ninh Binh

Food & drink travel tips for Vietnam

19. eat where the locals eat.

Our motto is to eat where the locals eat. Restaurants and small roadside food carts that are packed with locals are good signs. We do not doubt that the food is delicious and worth trying.

Street food that you often find by the roadside, served directly from a portable cart, is often the cheapest and most delicious food you will find. Food from these types of places in Vietnam generally costs between 20,000 – 40,000 vnd ($0.87 – $1.75).

21. Avoid drinking tap water at all costs

The tap water in Vietnam is not safe to drink. Whilst you can brush your teeth with it, avoid gulping it down in gallons. Instead, head to one of the local convenience stores to buy bottled water.

22. Make sure the menu has prices

When ordering food, it’s good to know how much the meal will cost beforehand. Check the menu for prices. If there are no prices, make sure to confirm the cost with the waiter/waitress beforehand. We have fallen victim to overpriced iced tea a few times in places like Hoi An. Usually, the Vietnamese tea served alongside a meal is free, in local eateries in Ho Chi Minh City and Ha Noi, so it is easy to assume the same for other places in Vietnam.

Banh Cuon

Shopping travel tips for Vietnam

23. shop around for souvenirs.

Vietnamese souvenirs are sold in the millions. Don’t settle on the first item you see, at the first shop you see it in. Shop around for the best price. You are highly likely to find the same items at half the price down the road.

24. Get your haggle on

When shopping for trinkets in Vietnam, make sure to haggle. Sellers rarely give you a price expecting you to pay it without any negotiations. A good rule of thumb is to knock off a third of the original asking price.

25. Tipping is not a thing

Unlike in the USA, where tips are common practice, Vietnam doesn’t really have a tipping culture. It is fine to leave a small amount of change, but there is no need to add a 10% tip for every meal or journey.

26. Treat yourself to a tailor-made outfit

Vietnam is one of the best and cheapest places in the world to get tailor-made outfits. Hoi An particularly has tailors dotted all over the old town. Outfits can be made within a matter of a couple of days. If you’re in Hanoi and are looking for tailor-made dresses, you can pop on down to Hom Market to buy fabric. Prices for tailor-made dresses in Hanoi start from around 250 – 300,000 vnd ($11 – $13).

The best Vietnam souvenirs

Common scams in Vietnam

27. motorbike ride around.

The motorbike ride-around scam is common in the major cities; Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. A local on a bike will approach you and ask if you want a tour of the city on his bike. He will present his badge and a book of testimonies written by other foreigners. When you ask for a price, he will tell you to pay what you think is fair at the end of the journey.

However, when you want to finish the trip, he will stop you away from your hotel and ask you to pay a ridiculous amount of money. This is why it is important to always agree on a price before starting a service. Make sure your negotiations are clear and don’t leave any room for misunderstanding. Always stand your ground, and if a seller refuses to give you an upfront price, keep walking and politely decline their offer. It is likely to lead to being scammed.

28. Fruit seller photos

Do you know the ladies that wear the traditional colonial hat and carry two large baskets of fruit over their shoulders? The typical image that may pop into your head when you think of Vietnam. Watch out for the photo scam. They will kindly approach you and ask if you would like to hold their baskets for a photo. In the moment this can seem quite exciting and you may jump at the chance. However, once your camera shutter snaps down, a demand for payment will be made. This isn’t to say not to take that photo opportunity, but be aware that you will need to pay a small amount of money for it.

A seller on the streets of Ho Chi Minh City

29. Money switch

Some banknotes are similar in colour but have a massive difference in value. For example, take the 20,000 vnd ($0.87) note and the 500,000 vnd ($21.84) note. Scammers use this to their advantage. They will take your higher value note and whip it in their pocket in the blink of an eye and then try to convince you that you paid with the lower value note. Double-check the notes before you hand them over.

30. Petrol jump

If you rent a scooter in Vietnam, there is no doubt you will have to make a call to a petrol station. A known scam here is for the attendant to not reset the pump, resulting in you paying for your petrol and the person’s before you as well. Make sure the attendant starts the pump at 0. They should divert your attention for you to check.

31. Shoeshine

Finally on this list of travel tips for Vietnam is the shoeshine scam. The shoeshine scam is common around Bui Vien, Hoan Kiem Lake, and Bia Street in Hanoi . It is often young men that will approach you asking if you would like your shoes cleaned. Once you have agreed on the price they will take your shoes to be cleaned. Once they return with your shoes, you will find new laces, new soles, and other types of shoe repair jobs that you did not ask for. Of course, this is not free and you will have to pay for the extra service. To avoid this, make sure you are clear beforehand that you do not want any other service and that you will only pay what you agreed upon.

Essential resources for travelling in Vietnam

Travel Insurance – It’s a good idea to have insurance, particularly if you’re going to be riding a motorbike. Our personal choice is Safteywing . You can opt for automatic monthly payments, just like a subscription. It can be purchased whilst already travelling and there is no cap on travel duration.

Visa – You are highly likely to need a visa for Vietnam. iVisa is a fantastic website that is super easy and quick to use. You can quickly make a visa application online.

Accommodation – Booking.com is our go-to when looking to pre-book accommodation online. Booking.com tend almost always to have the best rates and a FREE cancellation policy for most properties.

Overland transport – Our go-to website for overland transport is Bookaway . They have routes all over Vietnam and host a range of transport modes and companies. It is easy to book online and have your ticket sent to your phone.

Tours & Activities – If you want to book tours and activities for Vietnam online, make sure to check out Get Your Guide . Get Your Guide takes the stress out of booking activities abroad. You will also find a range of benefits, such as skip-the-line passes, lunch included in your tours, and so much more.

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Essential Travel Tips to Vietnam That You Need Know

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travelling to vietnam tips

TRAVEL to VIETNAM – Tips and Information Guide (2024 Edition)

Everything you need to know about travel to Vietnam in our comprehensive 2024 Vietnam travel guide.

We get it. You’re wondering what the absolute best destination to travel in Southeast Asia is.

You’ve spent hours researching.

Talked to friends.

Scoured the internet for blogs.

Watched YouTube videos.

And you’ve finally realised something.

Without a doubt, Vietnam is the place for you.

And trust us, as a couple that have travelled the world for over a decade, we think you’ve made the right decision.

There’s a reason Vietnam is our all-time favourite country…

From the tropical coral reefs of Nha Trang to the northern mountains of Sa Pa, travel to Vietnam is one of the most adventurous yet culturally empowering experiences you can have.

One moment you will find yourself haggling for banh mi deep within Saigon and later that day you could be watching a breathtaking sunset from the Mekong Delta.

Vietnam is more than a country. It’s an experience.

You’ll find yourself immersed among street food vendors cooking up exotic cuisines such as pho along streets with stores selling suits and ties.

Or you’ll be cruising the waters of Halong Bay while monkeys jump from island to island.

Or you might find yourself trekking to the highest peak in Vietnam, Fansipan soaring to over 3,100 metres!

Not into adventure activities? Homestays are the perfect way to spend your day as the monsoon rains fall across the endless snaking rivers of the Mekong.

Vietnamese hospitality is unrivalled and is something that you should experience once in your life, so what are you waiting for? Say good morning Vietnam! And go get lost!

So we’ve convinced you to travel to Vietnam? Awesome!

Now check out the basic information about the country in our Vietnam travel guide.

Than Uyen Rice Terraces Travel To Vietnam

TRAVELLING IN VIETNAM: AT A GLANCE

Here are the basics about travel to Vietnam.

DON’T FORGET TO PACK THE MOST IMPORTANT THING: TRAVEL INSURANCE !

TOP 5 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES IN VIETNAM

With so much to see and do in Vietnam, it really is hard to pick the top experiences.

However, we think that to truly appreciate Vietnam you need to plan to do these 5 activities during your visit.

Train Tracks Hanoi

Take the Overnight Train from Hanoi to Sapa

Said to be one of the most eye-opening train rides in the world, as you pass through lush forests, rice paddy fields on your way to the Vietnamese – Chinese border.

Book your train ticket here .

Hike Through the Rice Terraces of Sapa

Explore the area with the local hill tribes. Stay with them during your trek. And enjoy the beautiful terraced countryside for which Sapa is known.

Here’s our full post about trekking in Sapa .

Sapa Trekking

Cruise the Mekong Delta

Probably one of the ‘must do’s of Vietnam.’ The Mekong Delta is full of hidden gems including floating markets, friendly locals and late afternoon storms.

Book a multiday tour of the Mekong Delta

Go Caving in Phong Nha

Caves there can fit a 747 plane in it. They are massive and spectacular. This is an adventure you will never forget.

Book your Phong Nha cave tour

Things To Do In Vietnam

Ride a Motorcycle

Yes, that’s right! Hiring a motorcycle or scooter is a must. But maybe do it out on the country roads. Opt for the famous ride to the mountain village of Dalat, or pretty much anywhere throughout the country.

Read about how to ride through the famous Hai Van Pass

Other Things to do in Vietnam

Learn to cook Vietnamese food . Eating delicious Vietnamese food is one thing. Eating it after you’ve learned to prepare it is another!

Scuba dive in Nha Trang. You may not think of Vietnam as a big scuba location, but there is some great diving to be had in Nha Trang.

Go canyoning in Dalat. Rappel, slide, jump and climb your way through canyons in this gorgeous place!

Explore the Marble Mountains in Da Nang. These beautiful mountains have been mined for marble for years and have incredible views and temples to visit along the way.

Sandboard down the sand dunes in Mui Ne. It’s like snowboarding, but down massive sand dunes! Enjoy this rush!

Visit the Giants Causeway in Ghan Da Dia. Half the world away from the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, be amazed at this unique geologic structure .

Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels outside of Ho Chi Minh City. No trip to HCMC is complete without touring these historic tunnels that were used during the war.

Conquer the Hoi An Pass on a motorbike . This is known as one of the most beautiful sections of highway in the world. Enjoy!

Explore the world’s biggest cave . We have a special connection with Hang Son Doong as it is where we were engaged. Make your own special moment too!

Climb the highest mountain in Indochina in Sapa. Fansipan is over 3,000m above sea level and offers incredible views along the way to the top!

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT THESE OTHER AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN VIETNAM

Hang Son Doong Travelling In Vietnam

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN VIETNAM

There are plenty of amazing places to visit in Vietnam. Depending on your interests, trip duration and time of year you will find plenty of things to do during any length of stay. 

Day Trips From Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

When slurping a bowl of pho in a local market or exploring an ancient temple, it’s easy to feel like you’ve stepped into a time machine in Ho Chi Minh City.

Plan your 3-day Ho Chi Minh City itinerary

A collection of over 3,000 limestone islands providing endless kayaking opportunities. Take the time to relax aboard a boat or venture to Cat Ba National Park for mystical waterfalls!

Book your tour of Halong Bay

Halong Bay Photo Essay

The capital of Vietnam is also one of the most ancient capitals in the world. The history of Hanoi is rich, devastating and full of legends. This mystical city is also known for its cuisine, silk, buzzing nightlife as well as cultural diversity.

Plan your 3-day Hanoi itinerary

My Son Temple

Ancient temples dating back 1,000 years give a culture understanding into Vietnam’s past all while showing the scars of the war.

Book an early morning tour of My Son

Temples Of My Son Near Hoi An

For more information on specific things to do in the top places to visit in Vietnam, reference our following city travel guides: 

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT THESE OTHER AWESOME PLACES TO VISIT IN VIETNAM. 

Spend Your Day Relaxing And Drinking Cold Coconuts.

BEST VIETNAM TRAVEL ITINERARY

We’ve put together a few Vietnam itineraries that are sure to leave you wanting for nothing at the end of your visit. 

There are so many amazing things to do in Vietnam that planning an itinerary for your travel can be a little overwhelming. 

Even though the country is one united nation, you can think of it geographically as being divided into a northern and southern region.

So depending on how much time you have, you may want to explore the northern region, southern region or the entire country.

Of course, no one-size-fits-all plan will suffice. But if we were to head back to Vietnam these are the top places and things that we would want to do! 

1-Week Vietnam Travel Itinerary Highlights

Most people spend at least a month went hey travel to Vietnam. But if you had just one week, or were willing to split a few weeks between the northern and southern regions, this is how we’d spend our time! 

Northern Vietnam

  • Fly into Hanoi
  • 2 nights – Hanoi
  • 2 nights – Halong Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay
  • 2 nights  – Sapa
  • Alternative to Sapa –  2 night in Hue
  • Fly out of Hanoi

Central Vietnam

  • Fly into Hanoi or HCMC. Get a local flight down to Dong Hoi
  • 3 nights – Phong Nha
  • 2 nights – Hue
  • 2-3  nights – Hoi An
  • Fly out of Da Nang to either Hanoi or HCMC to leave

South Vietnam

  • Fly into Ho Chi Minh City
  • 2 nights – Ho Chi Minh City
  • 2 nights – Mekong Delta
  • 2 nights –  Dalat
  • 1 night – Mui Ne
  • Fly out of Ho Chi Minh City

READ MORE: Check out this post for more details on our Vietnam travel itinerary . 

Hoi An Streets

VIETNAM TRIP PLANNING

Best time to visit vietnam.

The best time to travel to Vietnam really depends on what you are looking for in terms of weather, scenery and budget.

Peak season occurs from mid-December through to February. But expect prices to double during this time. The low season is perfect for those on a budget.

  • Low Season – April to June, September to November
  • Shoulder Season – December to March
  • High Season – July & August

Northern Vietnam  – The best months to travel Northern Vietnam are April to May or September to October. There are mostly sunny days and the rain has stopped.

The weather gets really cold from December to March and is not suited for hiking or sailing a junk boat in Halong Bay that time of year.

Central Vietnam –  The best months for travel to Central Vietnam are January to June. There are heavy rains in October and November and the really hot months are from May to August.

Southern Vietnam  – The best months to explore Southern Vietnam are January to April where conditions are beautiful.

You really can travel the south at any time of the year. Just note that from May to November there are afternoon downpours.

Things To Do In Hanoi

VIETNAM TRAVEL BUDGET GUIDELINE

Vietnam is a cheap country to travel if you want it to be, this all depends on what your budget is like. Our advice is always over-budget when making plans, and if you come home with money, it can go towards your next trip. All prices below are in USD per day.

Budgeting Tips

To make your money go further here are a few tips: 

  • Eat street food as often as possible. You can usually fill up for $1-2USD.
  • Travel in groups when possible. Staying in hostels will lead to making friends. And with friends, you can split transportation costs and barter on other expenses.
  • Negotiate taxi fares before taking the ride. Vietnamese taxi drivers are notorious for flexible fares that tend to fall int heir favor. Don’t be afraid of a little negotiation.
  • Drink bia hoi . Sure it’s not the more delightful beer. But it is shipped in fresh each day, it’s cheap and it’s what the local drink.
  • Take in the sights for free. Do a little research and walk the streets on your own. You’ll also find there are a number of free tours and other opportunities if you ask around.
  • Sleep on overnight busses for longer trips. Combine the transportation and accommodation line items of your budget and save a few dollars.

But there are a few things you should know about the different budgets at which you can choose to travel.

Note: Budgets shown as Single Traveller / Couples per day. 

Budget Traveller ($35 Single / $50 Couples)

If you are on a backpacker budget and planning on staying in dorm rooms, getting street food, drinking a few nights of the week, I would budget for about $35 a day.

A single hostel bed can be $5-$8 per person. A budget basic private room is $15-$20. A street food meal can be $1-$2. A bottle of beer is about $1- $1.50 and a bia hoi is $0.20 per cup. This is not the nicest beer. But it is passable and you get to make new friends when drinking it.

Walking or taking public transport will keep your budget down. There are many free things to do, you just need to think outside the box.

Mid-Range Traveller ($100 Single / $120 Couple)

If you have a little more cash in your budget your travels in Vietnam will become a lot more comfortable.

A nicer hotel is definitely affordable.

There are restaurants where you will pay more than the street food price. But the food is definitely of nicer quality (most of the time). The local beer can get a little too much sometimes so you will be able to enjoy an international beer or wine.

For the attractions you are most interested in, get a guide and learn more about the history of the country. You’ll be able to commit much more of your budget to do things rather than cutting corners just to stay alive.

Luxury Traveller ($90+ Single / $120+ Couple)

You don’t have to have that much more to enjoy a luxury trip to Vietnam. With a few more dollars in your budget, a nicer hotel is definitely affordable. Eat and drink anything you would like at virtually any restaurant.

You can hire transportation without having to haggle. And you can pretty much do any tour you would like to do when visiting any part of Vietnam.

Steaming Grain Best Compact Travel Camera

GETTING TO AND AROUND VIETNAM

Entry requirements.

Most travellers are required to have visas when travelling to Vietnam, which can typically be arranged upon arrival. You are typically allowed to stay for 3 – 6 months, depending on nationality.

For information about your specific visa requirements click  here

Additionally, Vietnam has introduced an electronic visa (e-visa), which costs $25 USD and is granted for single entry visits for up to 30 days.

You no longer will have to apply through an agent to get an invitation letter or queue at the airport immigration for hours waiting to receive your visa upon arrival.

Apply in advance  here .

Once you are approved, all you need to do is print the visa out and present it on entry to Vietnam. Don’t lose this e- visa print out as you will need this during your travels in Vietnam.

Hotels will ask for it on check-in at the accommodation and travel agents may ask for it if you are booking flights.

Also, print out your  travel insurance  as well. Immigration will ask for this also as they want to know you are covered if you fall ill or get injured during your stay.

Japanese Bridge In Hoi An

Getting to Vietnam

There are a number of different ways to travel to Vietnam, depending on where you are coming from and how you like to get around with transport.

There are a lot of different airlines that fly to Vietnam from all over the world. There are two major international airports in Vietnam: Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City in the south and Noi Bai Airpot (HAN) in Hanoi in the north.

Direct flights to Vietnam from Australia, Europe and North America are still limited, but it is improving. You will most likely have to book a flight with a stopover in either Hong Kong, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul or Singapore.

There are many domestic airports scattered among the country. Vietnam Airlines is Vietnam’s national carrier. We have flown with them several times and they are amazing.

You can cross into Vietnam by train from China, all the way from Beijing to Ping Xian. This is the Dong Dang Crossing which is 160km from Hanoi.

After you have crossed the border hop on a train to Hanoi. Don’t buy the direct ticket from Beijing to Hanoi. It works out cheaper to buy your ticket from Beijing to Ping Xian then cross the border and purchase another ticket from Dong Dang to Hanoi.

If you do the train trip from Beijing through to Hanoi, it will take 36 hours so it is best to book a sleeper. Make sure you have your visa organised before getting to the border.

You can bring your own food and drinks for the train or purchase them from the cafeteria on board. There are squat toilets on board and areas to store your luggage.

You can get to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City through either the Cambodia, Laos or China borders. There is a route from Vientiane (Laos) to Hanoi, and one from Siem Reap or Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City.

Most travel agents in Vientiane, Siem Reap or Phnom Penh will sell the tickets or at your accommodation. You can also get a minivan from Guangzhou through to Hanoi.

Make sure you have your visa ready. The border crossings by land may not be set up as well as others.

If you want to book any of your bus trips online rather than trying to deal with travel agencies in the country, you can do so on the popular website  Bookaway .

Man In Rickshaw

Getting Around Vietnam

Getting around Vietnam is surprisingly easy. Public transport goes everywhere, and there are plenty of moto-taxis that are happy to take you to the places that public transport won’t reach.

Travelling by Air

The fastest way to get around the country, of course, is by air. There are many domestic airports all over the country and you can fly in from major cities.

You can get cheap flights within the country through VietJet Air and Vietnam Airlines. For the best deals head directly on the airline’s website.

Travelling by Taxi, Tuk Tuk Or Mototaxi

When you are in the cities and town catching a taxi, tuk-tuk or moto-taxi can be the best way to get around. For taxi companies, look for the biggest and most reputable companies as you can be ripped off.

For the tuk-tuks, ask your accommodation the average price to your destination so you can agree on a price with the driver.

We recommend Uber and Grab (car or motorbike) which you can use an app and get the price.

Travelling by Bus

It is possible and advisable to travel by bus throughout Vietnam. Busses inside of cities can be complicated and should be a last resort.

However, when travelling long distances in Vietnam busses are a great option. This is especially true if you take night busses and sleep during the ride.

Travelling by Motorbike

We think travelling by motorbike is the best way to see Vietnam if you have the time. Buy your own motorbike and ride the length of the country. Or you can choose one area and explore Northern Vietnam or South Vietnam.

Here’s our post to help guide you on  how to buy a motorbike in Vietnam .

Travelling by Train

Taking the train is a great way to get around the country. They are great for overnight journeys as the trains have bed cabins.

In Vietnam, there are many places with roadwork that can last for years. So trains can be the best way to go.

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APPS AND TECHNOLOGY

We know you’ll absolutely love travelling in Vietnam. But technology has made it easier, more affordable and safer to travel than ever.

Here are a few apps we think you should definitely acquaint yourself with prior to your travels:

Grab – Use this app to catch a ride from any metro area in Vietnam.

XE Currency – Transfer, monitor and calculate currency as the need arises. This app may not be totally necessary as you are typically tied into rates the banks charge for services. But it is handy to have around. 

Express VPN – This will protect your sensitive information wherever you travel – not just in [Country]. Be sure to have this to keep your online information secure as you travel. 

iTranslate – Even if you don’t know more than a handful of Vietnamese words, iTranslate will help you communicate as you travel in Vietnam. 

WiFi Finder – With this app, you no longer have to guess whether the next place on your itinerary has WiFi or scramble across town looking for hot spots.

Market Be Your Own Travel Concierge

BEST THINGS TO EAT IN VIETNAM

When you travel to a foreign country one of the new and most exciting things you will experience is the food. There are so many amazing food choices in Vietnam, and Vietnamese food is delicious.

Here are a few of our favourites.

Goi Cuon:  This is a rice paper packed with greens, coriander and various combinations of minced or shredded pork, shrimp or crab. It will be served with a sweet and sour sauce or a delicious homemade peanut sauce.

Sometimes to make the experience even better, you get to hand roll them yourself. This was our favourite dish.

Banh Mi:  With this one, it will be different in every corner of Vietnam. This is a baguette sandwich that is filled with meat, greens, pata, pickled vegetables, soy sauce, cilantro and sometimes an omelet.

The meat filling will be roasted pork belly, grilled pork loin, barbecue pork, boiled chicken, or a fried egg.

Pho (pronounced ‘fur’):  This flat rice noodle soup is either light beef or chicken broth flavoured with coriander and ginger with spring onions and bits of meat (chicken, pork or beef).

It is a dish you can have any time of the day and is delicious, but it can be hit and miss in some places. If you have an average one, please do try it again. We ate pho a lot for breakfast and never got sick of it.

Bun Cha:  This is a Hanoi specialty and it is deliciously addictive. Bun Cha is served with grilled fatty pork over a plate of white rice noodles. It will be served with a sauce.

It will all be served separately and you combined everything together. You can ask for some little fried spring rolls on top too. It is so delicious!

Coa Lau:  Hoi An is the best (and only authentic) place to try this one. as the noodles are made using water from a special well in town.

It is chewy rice flour noodles with Chinese barbecue pork, bean sprouts, croutons and fresh herbs in a delicious pork-based gravy.

Bun Cha Hanoi

PLACES TO STAY IN VIETNAM

There are accommodation options for all budgets in Vietnam. You can stay in a shared dorm for $5 USD per night, or a luxury hotel for over $300 USD.

The accommodation standards can vary in each destination.

For example, we got a really nice hotel in the middle of nowhere when we were on our bike for $12 a night. But we would not find a place like this in Hanoi, Hoi An, HCMC or Hue for less than $25.

NOTE –  In Vietnam, the accommodation will keep your passport for the duration of your stay. This is to do with the government. Officials will randomly come around and check hotels and hostels.

If they do not have the ID or passport of every person staying there, the accommodation will be fined. The accommodation will keep your passport in a safe. If you are unsure just ask, “do you lock my passport up?”

Types of Accommodations

Vietnam is wildly popular among backpackers. Because the costs are generally incredibly low, budget travellers flock to the country.

This means that there are lots of great hostel options when looking for accommodations in Vietnam.

Whether you are busy spending all your time exploring and are just looking for a cheap place to crash for the night or want to make friends along the way, you will find most of what you are looking for in a variety of hostels throughout Vietnam.

Because costs are generally lower in Vietnam than in most parts of the world your quality of life can go up quite a bit when you travel to Vietnam.

One way you can upgrade your travel experience is by booking rooms in hotels instead of beds in hostels. For a few dollars more you’ll get vastly more space and privacy.

In some towns and villages, hotels are your only option.

But generally, these are very reasonably priced. You can expect to spend USD$20-30 for a decent hotel room in most cities, towns and villages across Vietnam.

Another good option in recent years is AirBnB, and there are more and more amazing places popping up to stay in Vietnam for very affordable prices every day.

As is typical in many destinations where Airbnb accommodations are available, you’ll likely find great value and a little more personal space with an Airbnb stay. 

If you’re looking for an awesome place to stay, we personally love using Airbnb. If you’ve never used the platform before,  sign up using this link to get USD$35 off your first booking .

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Vietnam

We travelled from the south to the north and stayed in many different places. Here are a few accommodation options we highly recommend.

Temple Hoi An

VIETNAM TRAVEL TIPS

The Vietnamese people are friendly, welcoming and hospitable towards travellers. It is a great destination to travel to in Southeast Asia.

The people are very respectful and would like the same back from you. Here are a few things that you should know before going to Vietnam.

GENERAL VIETNAM TRAVEL TIPS 

While we have many basic travel tips we suggest you use when travelling to Vietnam, there are also plenty of Vietnam-specific tips that will make your visit the best it can be. 

Here are a few we recommend you consider as you plan your trip to visit Vietnam: 

Please show respect to their religious beliefs and their cultures . You are travelling to someone else’s country. They have different religious beliefs and cultures in your home. Please respect them.

Watch your belongings. Vietnam is a safe country but unfortunately, there still is petty theft. Whether you are at a restaurant or on a bus always watch your belongings.

Beware of the counterfeit tour agencies . Unfortunately, there are plenty of these around, especially in the main tourist areas. Book through the main owner or operator or any of these tours that we recommend .

Do not drink the tap water. The locals don’t even drink the water. There is bottled water available everywhere. Popular tourist restaurants will usually have on their menu that they wash their salad and veggies in sterilised water and make tea, coffee and soup from that too.

Carry toilet paper everywhere . There are toilets available in restaurants or in public but there may not be toilet paper. Most of the time you have to pay for the public toilet and they may give you some toilet paper, but don’t count on it. Always have your stash.

Toilet paper goes in the bin . DO NOT put the toilet paper in the toilet. Please put it into the bin provided. Vietnam’s sewerage systems are not built for much more than human waste so toilet paper and other items will just clog up your toilet.

Embrace the “bum gun “. Next to every toilet in Vietnam, there is a water hose. This is not to wash down the floor. This is to clean yourself up after you do your business. Don’t be disgusted by this. Embrace it.

Vietnam is bigger than you think . This country is huge and many people underestimate it. Vietnam is about 1,650 kilometres long from north to south. The distance on buses and trains is long so be prepared.

Take note of the Vietnamese money . It will be a new currency for you so do take a look at it before you go out spending. There are more zeros in it than you might be used to (1USD = 23,000 Dong)

Always take photos when you rent a scooter . Renting a scooter in Vietnam is something everyone does. It is a great way to get around and see all the attractions. But where you rent it from can get you into trouble. Whenever you rent a scooter take photos of the bike or else might end up with a crazy expensive bill.

Always wear a helmet. Always . Please wear a helmet. The roads are crazier here than they are in your country. The rules are different and road conditions are not the best. A quality helmet could save your life in an accident.

Make sure you have travel insurance . We tell people who are going travelling, “if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.” You do not know what is going to happen while you are away and knowing you are covered will put your mind at ease.

Be confident when crossing the road . The roads in Vietnam are crazy. Crossing the road can be daunting but you need to be confident. Do not walk backward or hesitate. Walk slowly and watch the traffic coming towards you. They will all move around you.

Take your shoes off before entering a temple or a person’s home . It is a custom that stems back to ancient times and a big part comes back to cleanliness. The ground is used for chatting, dining and even sleeping.

Cover your shoulders and knees when entering a temple . This is common in most religious sites. There are always signs suggesting visitors dress ‘appropriately.’ Shoulders and knees should be covered. If it is a hot day and a t-shirt is too sticky, carry a scarf for when you visit to cover your shoulders.

Keep a low profile . Do not be loud, raise your voice in aggression or show off. Do not show dramatic affection publicly like kissing. Save it for the hotel room

Ask for permission before taking a photo of someone . This is polite and ensures you are not intruding on them. The people are not there for your entertainment. If they say no, smile and thank them anyway.

Do not take photos of anything to do with the government or military. This is a big NO in any country and can end up with you in jail.

Do not touch someone on the head . The head is the most important part of the body. Touching someone’s head who you don’t know is like saying you are more important than they are.

Place your chopsticks across the top of the bowl when finished . Don’t have your chopsticks hanging out of the bowl, and don’t point them at anyone when they are resting on the plate.

Riding Northern Vietnam

VIETNAM PACKING LIST

We always travel with a core packing list wherever we go. And when it comes to Vietnam, many factors will affect what else you need to bring along with you. 

Check out our travel essentials and be sure to add any of the other additional items listed below. 

Important Note! Before you book any international trip, we honestly recommend getting travel insurance. You never know when things will go wrong, and medical bills can add up quickly if you get sick or injure yourself overseas.

Our personal recommendation based on our own experience is World Nomads .

STAYING SAFE IN VIETNAM

Vietnam is extremely safe, apart from the one major danger which is the roads. They are crazy, even more so if you try to ride 10’000km around the country on motorbikes as we did!

Aside from that, common sense will keep you safe.

Here are a few reminders of what common sense when travelling in Vietnam means:

As you saw above, Vietnam is extremely safe. We did not feel unsafe once in the 7 months we were there (excluding the roads).

This doesn’t mean you can completely let your guard down though, and petty theft does happen in this country, although it’s not common.

Some tips for protecting your things:

In other words, use common sense and you’ll be fine.

Band Playing In Street Hanoi

STAYING CONNECTED IN VIETNAM

Staying connected with friends and family (and work) when travelling in Vietnam is important. But if you don’t know how to connect you can find yourself greatly inconvenienced or spending too much money.

We feel like your money will go a lot further if you consider a few options. 

Purchase a SIM Card

Picking up a SIM card has become the quickest and typically most affordable way to stay connected in Vietnam or any country for that matter.

If you have an unlocked phone you can use a 4G SIM card to connect to the cellular networks in Vietnam. From there you can cast a hot spot if you need to crank out some work on your computer or want to connect a tablet.

This 3G/4G SIM card is a great and affordable option for a SIM card if you are flying into Vietnam.

Rent a Portable WiFi Device

Alternatively to a SIM card, particularly if you don’t have an unlocked phone, you can rent a portable WiFi device during your travel to Vietnam.

This device will be delivered to you when you arrive in Vietnam and will provide 4G service for less than USD$5 per day.

You’ll be able to connect anywhere you can find service across the country, which will be most of the places you are likely to travel in Vietnam.

Access Free WiFI

Free is always best, if it is convenient. And there are plenty of places throughout Vietnam that will provide free WiFi in public spaces or at restaurants, cafes and hostels and hotels.

We recommend using the WiFi Finder app, which will help you locate WiFi anywhere you travel in Vietnam.

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BE A RESPONSIBLE TRAVELER IN VIETNAM

We absolutely love Vietnam. And we love the idea that it will remain a beautiful and friendly place for travellers for years to come.

Here are a few tips specific to travel to Vietnam that will promote sustainable tourism in the country:

Use your own energy to get around. Walk or cycle through town as much as possible. Taking a cyclo-taxi is a close alternative if you don’t have the energy to propel yourself through the city. But this reduces the impact of taxis, busses and other forms of automotive transportation.

Mind your plastic . Plastic is everywhere in Vietnam. But using your own reusable bag for groceries and other shopping, carrying a reusable water bottle and having your own straw are just 3 of the many simple ways you can reduce the amount of plastic you use.

Shop local . Visiting the markets will be one of your top experiences when travelling to Vietnam. Support local vendors as often as possible, including in taking tours when available.

Be mindful of wildlife . Wildlife in the wild is great. But be mindful not to provoke, feed or otherwise molest wildlife. And never purchase any item made of or involving rare or endangered species.

Attempt to communicate in Vietnamese . You’re probably not going to be fluent as soon as you arrive in the country. But knowing a few phrases and doing your best to communicate with locals will show respect and earn trust and make your experience richer.

KEY VIETNAMESE TRAVEL PHRASES

You don’t have to be fluent in Vietnamese to have a great time when you travel to Vietnam. But it does help to know a few key phrases.

This will not only assist you in your travels but it will also show respect to the local Vietnamese people that you are doing your best to assimilate into their culture. 

BOOKS TO READ ABOUT VIETNAM

Maybe you already know everything about Vietnam. Chances are you don’t!

But even if you are well-read, here are a few suggestions that might be worth your time while you’re on the plane to Vietnam. 

The Quiet American (Graham Greene) – Originally published in 1956 and adapted for film twice, this story by Greene became an instant classic. Greene fictionalizes life in 1950s Vietnam as told by a British correspondent trying to understand the roots of the rising conflict set to occur.

At Home In The World (Thich Nhat Hanh) – World renown Vietnamese monk, Hanh reflects on lessons and stories in life from the Buddhist perspective.

Vietnam: Rising Dragon (Bill Hayton) – A piece of nonfiction that looks back on the Vietnam of old and attempts to projects its place in the future of Southeast Asia.

The Sympathizer (Viet Thanh Nguyen) – The Pulitzer Prize-winning book, allegedly influenced by The Quiet American , is told through the eyes of a double-agent during the Vietnam War who struggles to understand the minds and hearts of men engaged in war.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Vietnam Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 17, 2023

Rice terraces in Vietnam surrounded by list hills and mountains on a sunny day

Most people either love or hate traveling in Vietnam. When I first went, there was a negative attitude towards foreign travelers (for good reason), lots of scams, and just not a lot of good vibes. But, since that trip many years ago, the country has changed a lot: it’s embraced tourism, people have opened up more, there’s fewer scams, and Ho Chi Minh City has even become a hub for digital nomads.

From exploring the Old Quarter of Hanoi to the delicious food and fancy garments of Hoi An , Vietnam has a lot to see and do so take your time. Don’t rush your trip.

This budget travel guide to Vietnam can help you plan your trip and ensure you make the most of your visit.

Table of Contents

  • Things to See and Do
  • Typical Costs
  • Suggested Budget
  • Money-Saving Tips
  • Where to Stay
  • How to Get Around
  • How to Stay Safe
  • Best Places to Book Your Trip
  • Related Blogs on Vietnam

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in vietnam.

The beach scene along the coast of Nha Trang, Vietnam with the city skyline towering along the coastline

1. Tour the Mekong Delta

The delta is a 60,000-kilometer (37,000-mile) long web of interconnected waterways, which spans three Vietnamese provinces and has been used since the 4th century BCE. What I love about this area is it’s filled with small villages, pagodas, mangroves, and orchards. The best way to experience the area is to go on a boat or bike tour, where you’ll experience rural Vietnamese culture. Some of favorite things include the Cai Rang floating market for the colorful fruits and veggies and vibrant atmosphere; Vinh Trang Pagoda for its impressive golden exterior and lush gardens; and the incredible Sadec Flower Village that is stunning and serene, even if you’re not a flower enthusiast. Spend a few days really getting to know the region outside the hustle and bustle of the cities. Day trips on the river start at around 575,000 VND per person.

2. Wander Hanoi

Vietnam’s capital dates to the 3rd century BCE when it was the capital of the ancient nation of Au Lac. I love to wander around the narrow streets of the Old Quarter. It’s a great place to get a feel for the city as there are tons of vendors, smells of street food, people watching, and bustle. Some of my favorite places to visit include the One-Pillar Pagoda, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, and the Hanoi Water Puppet Theater. Be sure to check out the history museum to learn about French colonialism and Communist rule (from the Vietnamese perspective) as well as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Hanoi is also a good base for doing multi-day tours to Ha Long Bay.

3. Explore Ha Long Bay

This iconic region is home to more than 3,000 islands and is one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. The towering limestone islands are covered in lush jungles and surrounded by calm emerald waters. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s located 2-3 hours from Hanoi and travelers can take multi-day boat cruises around the islands (most are 2-5 days). During the cruise, you’ll visit floating markets, incredible beaches, massive caves, and either sleep onboard your boat or on one of the many islands. Just keep in mind that this area is super popular and is often overcrowded. Cheap tours start around 1,200,000 VND while a mid-range tour costs around 3,000,000-4,500,000 VND. Just remember that you get what you pay for and the cheaper boats might be a bit run down.

4. Hang out in Hoi An

Hoi An was a thriving port city between the 15th and 19th centuries and the architecture is incredibly well preserved (the entire Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site). It was easily my favorite place in Vietnam because I loved walking around, taking a thrilling sidecar trip in the countryside, and of course, Vietnamese cooking classes, which are great because you learn to prepare fresh fish caught right there. This place is famous for its tailors so if you’re looking to buy some custom made clothes at an inexpensive price, this is the spot to do it in. They will even ship it back to your home country.

5. Get adventurous in Sapa

This is northern Vietnam’s premier trekking area and it’s hugely popular with all sorts of travelers. Sapa is famous for its hill tribes, lush vegetation, beautiful hiking trails, and breathtaking mountains. If you’re looking to experience the scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities Vietnam has to offer, this is the place. This area is rich in culture because it is comprised of 85% ethnic Vietnamese minority groups that have different colorful traditional dress and unique styles of houses. To avoid the tourists, come during the off-season or take longer hikes to parts the crowds don’t go to.

Other Things to See and Do

1. take a free walking tour.

The first thing I do when I visit a new destination is take a free walking tour. It’s the best way to get the lay of the land, see the main sights, and connect with a local guide who can answer all my questions. Both Hanoi and HCMH (the two largest and most popular cities in the country) have a few free tours available that cover the main highlights and are a great primer to the country (Hanoi Free Walking Tours and Saigon Free Day Tours are two companies worth checking out). Just remember to tip your guide at the end!

2. Crawl through the Cu Chi Tunnels

This extensive network of tunnels spans nearly 310 miles (500 kilometers). It was utilized by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Tours involve a description of the tunnels, after which tourists are allowed to crawl about the maze and fire AK47s at shooting targets. It’s a sobering experience and not one meant for anyone claustrophobic. However, if you want to better understand the terror of the Vietnam War, this is a must-visit. Admission is around 100,000 VND per person.

3. Relax or find adventure in Dalat

Dalat is nestled in the hills of the Central Highlands and is popular with tourists who want to relax in the mountain air and those who want to participate in a host of adventure sports (such as rock climbing, ziplining, and rappelling). The hills around Dalat are filled with traditional tribal villages, which you can tour as well. Expect to pay around 2,000,000 VND per person for a full day of ziplining and rappelling around waterfalls.

4. Visit Cuc Phuong National Park

South of Hanoi lies Vietnam’s first National Park, Cuc Phuong. Covering 222 square kilometers (85 square miles), this place is home to over 2,000 species of trees and some truly rare wildlife including the Clouded Leopard, Delacour’s Langur and Owston’s Civet. It was my favorite park in all of Vietnam and the only place I didn’t find hordes of tourists. The entrance fee is 50,000 VND.

5. Explore Ho Chi Minh City

Also known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s largest city and is definitely worth exploring. Ho Chi Minh is the place to really gain an understanding of French colonialism as well as the US headquarters there during the Vietnam War, which you can learn more about at the War Remnants Museum. Like most cities in Vietnam, you’ll be met with the roar of motorbikes speeding through colonial streets. I loved Ben Thanh Market, which is a must-see for amazing food and there is a great buzz of activity within the place. Don’t miss your chance to get the best Pho soup in Ho Chi Minh, that means some of the best is right on the side of the street.

6. Get active in Mui Ne

Despite being a fishing village, Mui Ne has a significant tourism scene due to its popularity as a wind- and kite-surfing destination. The best highlight for me aside from the beach was riding on the rolling sand dunes similar in size to the Saharan ones and also the Jeep Tour to the Fairy Stream through a canyon, which is not something you get to do very often! Also, don’t miss the 9th-century Po Shanu Cham Towers with beautiful views of the Phan Thiet coastal town. Mui Ne is definitely worth checking out for a day or two when you’re passing by on the bus because it has a nice chill vibe to it, friendly people, and beautiful sunsets.

7. See My Son

My Son is a set of Hindu ruins in Vietnam that date back to the Cham Empire. The Champas ruled over Central Vietnam from the 3rd to the 19th century. The temples here are of incredible historical importance, but they have been largely reclaimed by the surrounding jungle, and have fallen into a great state of disrepair. Don’t come here expecting something as marvelously preserved as Borobudur or Angkor Wat. The entrance fee is 150,000 VND.

8. Visit the caves in Phong Nha-Ke Bang

Hang Son Doong is reputed to be the world’s largest cave and is located in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. It was discovered by a local in 1990, and “rediscovered” by a British caving team in 2009. You can arrange trips to see this stunning cave in all its glory with stalactites and stalagmites, an inner cave forest, and even cave pearls. You’ll be blown away by its beauty. Entrance to the caves is around 150,000 VND per person.

9. Check out the rice terraces

Outside of connections to the Vietnam War, the stereotypical image of Vietnam is of the many rice paddies. You can find these in the Muong Hoa Valley. If you’ve never visited rice terraces, you should make a point to see them in Vietnam. Visit them to learn about rice production and take stunning photographs of the unbelievable Vietnamese countryside. Expect tours to cost around 600,000 VND per person.

10. Relax in Hue

Hue is generally passed by, making it a bit of a quieter stop along the tourist trail. Stroll along the beautiful Perfume River and into the Imperial Citadel. Don’t miss the Tu Hieu Pagoda and the Tombs of the Emperors, which mostly date from the 19th and 20th centuries. Some of the main tombs to see are the Tomb of Minh Mang, the Tomb of Tu Duc, and the Tomb of Khai Dinh.

11. Take a cooking class

Vietnamese food is delicious and the best way to learn about these incredible dishes is to take a cooking class. You’ll not only learn how to make some of these tasty meals but you’ll get to interact with a local chef who can teach you about their history and cultural significance. Many cooking classes also include a visit to the local market where you’ll shop for ingredients. Prices vary but expect to pay at least 800,000 VND per person.

12. Tour the former DMZ

The Vietnamese Demilitarized zone was the dividing line between the Communist north and anti-Communist south during the Vietnam War. It was in use from 1954 to 1976. These days, you can take a tour of the DMZ from Hue and learn about the conflict from expert guides who were actually involved in the war (or survived it as civilians). You’ll see secret tunnels, learn about military surveillance, and get insight about the conflict from a perspective not often shown in the media. Full-day tours from Hue start around 2,500,000 VND.

13. Buy a motorbike

If you’re an adventurous traveler, buy a motorbike and drive the length of the country. This is considered the best way to travel Vietnam by veteran backpackers who like to get off the beaten path. You can buy bikes in Hanoi or HCMC at either end of the country and then make your way to the opposite end, stopping along the way over the course of a few weeks. While it’s not for everyone, this mode of travel offers the most freedom as you’ll be able to visit a lot of places that the buses and trains don’t stop at. You can buy a bike for as little as 4,800,000 VND, and then you can sell it once your trip is done to recoup some of the cost. There are always backpackers looking to buy a bike in HCMC and Hanoi.

14. Sample the local coffee

Vietnam is the world’s second-largest coffee producer (after Brazil) exporting a whopping 1.5 million tons of it per year (after rice, it’s their biggest export). Even if you don’t drink coffee (I don’t), trying fresh coffee here is a must. Whether you just hop arounds cafes, do a tasting experience in Hanoi of HCMC, or head out to one of the many coffee plantations, learning about this vital crop (and also sampling it fresh) is an experience not to be missed. Expect a half-day plantation tour (with lots of samples) to cost around 700,000 VND.

For more information on specific cities in Vietnam, check out the following guides:

  • Hanoi Travel Guide
  • Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide
  • Hoi An Travel Guide
  • Nha Trang Travel Guide

Vietnam Travel Costs

The famous historic Japanese bridge in beautiful Hoi An, Vietnam

Accommodation – Hostels start at around 100,000 VND per night for a dorm room. These can be a bit rustic and no-frills. For a hostel with more amenities, such as free breakfast or a a free happy hour (as well as improved cleanliness), expect to pay double. Private rooms cost at least 350,890-425,000 VND per night for a double room. Most hostels include free Wi-Fi, and many also include free breakfast or free beer during certain hours of the day. Self-catering facilities are not very common since eating out is so cheap.

For those traveling with a tent, wild camping is not legal in Vietnam. While it is still possible to do as enforcement is sparse (especially if you’re sleeping in a hammock), I also wouldn’t recommend it. Insects and animals can be an issue, there are lots of landmines still undiscovered out in the brush, and robbery can occur. Stay safe and stick to hostels.

For a budget hotel with a double bed, expect to pay around 225,000 VND per night. This usually includes free Wi-Fi and free breakfast.

On Airbnb, a private room costs at least 325,000 VND per night. For an entire home or apartment, prices begin around 600,000 VND. Prices double when not booked in advance so plan accordingly

Food – Vietnamese cuisine is fresh, flavorful, and uses a lot of herbs and vegetables. Rice and noodle dishes are common as are various soups such as the iconic pho (a beef noodle soup). Wonton soup, meat curry, fresh French bread (known as bahn me , and grilled fish are just some of the popular dishes you’ll encounter. Standard ingredients include fish sauce, lemongrass, chili, lime, Thai basil, and mint.

You can get a bowl of pho or a rice dish for 20,000 VND. Street food is the cheapest and the most delicious food option in the country.

Most sit-down restaurants are also inexpensive at around 45,000-95,000 VND. The fancier (and more touristy) the restaurant, the more expensive.

Western food is also more expensive, usually around 110,000 VND for a fast food meal, so skip it if you’re on a budget.

If you want to splash out on a fancy three-course meal, expect to spend around 250,000 VND.

A liter of water at a convenience store is about 15,000 VND, while beer or soda is about 20,000-35,000 VND.

For those looking to cook their own meals, expect to pay at least 400,000 VND per week for basic groceries. Be sure to shop at the local markets to get the cheapest and freshest food. That being said, food is so cheap in the country that it’s simply easier – and cheaper – to just eat street food, especially as most hostels and hotels don’t have shared kitchens.

Backpacking Vietnam Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget, you can visit Vietnam for 600,000 VND per day. This budget covers a stay in a large hostel dorm, eating street food for all of your meals, limiting your drinking, taking the bus, and doing free activities in each destination. If you plan on drinking, add another 20,000-40,000 VND to your daily budget.

A mid-range budget of about 1,125,000 VND per day covers staying in a cheap hotel, eating street food and at the occasional sit-down restaurant, enjoying a few more drinks, taking the occasional taxi to get around, and doing more paid activities such as museum visits and water upper shows.

On an upscale budget of 2,460,000 VND, you can stay in a nice hotel, eat out for all your meals anywhere you want, enjoy lots of drinks, and more taxis, and do whatever tours and activities you want, including a multi-day trip to Ha Long Bay. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

Vietnam Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Vietnam is a very affordable country. In fact, it’s one of the cheapest in Southeast Asia. Even with the explosion of tourism in the last few years, it still remains very affordable. You’ll be hard pressed to spend money if you’re sticking to non-Western food, cocktails, and hotels. However, if you’re looking to travel even cheaper and save some money, here are some tips:

  • Eat delicious street food – The street food here is excellent and cheap, and you can watch it being cooked in front of you. Stick to the local food and you’ll save money. The street-side pho, bread, sandwiches, donuts, and bananas are your best deals.
  • Late-night travel – If traveling on long journeys, try to take the late-night “sleeper” buses or trains as these will save you the cost of a night’s accommodation. Depending on the company, you may even have a chance to comfortably lie flat as you ride through the dark countryside to your next destination.
  • Take the tourist bus – It is actually cheaper to take the tourist bus around the country than taking local transportation because of the “tourist” price you get at the bus station. Tickets from one end of the country to another are very affordable.
  • Fly for cheap – Vietnam’s low-cost airlines VietJet and FlyVietnam are extremely inexpensive. This is a great option for people with limited time to explore different regions of Vietnam. Both airlines frequently offer special deals and at the time of writing this, Hanoi to Da Nang is just 820,000 VND!
  • Bargain hard – Tourists tend to be charged more than locals for everything from cyclos (a three-wheel bicycle taxi) to clothes to street food. Bargain harder than you would ordinarily, and don’t underestimate the value of walking away.
  • Avoid paying tourist prices – Before you leave the hostel, ask them to estimate how much what you want to do should cost. How much should a ride to the museum cost? How much should I pay to have a gown like this made? They will be able to give you bargaining guidelines.
  • Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water in Hanoi is not safe to drink. To save money and reduce your plastic use, bring a reusable water bottle with you. LifeStraw make a reusable bottle with a built-in filter so you can be sure your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Vietnam

To help you save money on accommodation, here’s a list of my recommended hostels and budget hotels in Vietnam:

  • Mad Monkey (Hoi An)
  • Hoi An Golden Holiday Hotel (Hoi An)
  • Little Hanoi Hostel (Hanoi)
  • San Palace Hotel & Spa (Hanoi)
  • Hanoi House Hostel & Travel (Hanoi)
  • Ccasa Hostel & Coffee Bar (Nha Trang)
  • The Hideout (HCMC)
  • Orchid’s Saigon Hotel (HCMC)

How to Get Around Vietnam

The famous city railroad inside the Old Town of bustling Hanoi

Public transportation – Larger cities in Vietnam (such as Hanoi and HCMC) have reliable and safe public transportation. In Hanoi, there are buses that cover most of the city and generally have stops near all the major tourist sites. Tickets are paid for in cash on the bus and generally cost 7,000-15,000 VND depending on how far you go. HCMC also has a large network of buses, with tickets costing up to 10,000 VND (again, depending on how far you travel).

Cyclos (a bicycle rickshaw) is one of the cheapest ways to get around. A short ride costs as little as 12,000 VND, while a longer night ride costs upwards of 40,000 VND. A more popular option is the ze om , a motorbike taxi that has fares starting from 15,000 VND. You’ll have to hold on tight though (and make sure you wear a helmet as accidents are common).

Train – A lot of people love taking the train in Vietnam because it’s safe, affordable, and comfortable and, although some routes might be slow, you’ll get some amazing views of the Vietnamese countryside. The rail network also covers most of the country, so you can get just about everywhere you want to go (except the Central Highlands and the Mekong Delta). You can use the website Baolau to research train schedules and book your tickets. A train journey between Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi (which spans the entire length of the country) starts at 1,000,000 VND for a soft seat (not a berth). The journey takes three days. Hanoi to Hue costs around 600,000 VND and takes around 13 hours while HCMC to Nha Trang costs around 500,000 VND and takes 8 hours.

Bus – It’s easy to find long-distance hop on, hop off bus tours running the length of Vietnam. You can hop on or off at any stop along the way. They cater to tourists, but locals actually use this service too since it’s super affordable. Prices depend on route and operator but generally, Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh is between 815,000-1,600,000 VND.

Flying – Flying domestically in Vietnam is a good idea if you’re looking to fit a lot into a shorter trip. For example, a flight from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City takes two hours while the train ride would take at least 30 hours. One-way flights around the country start at around 590,000 VND.

Car rental – Vietnam is very easy to navigate by bus, so I don’t really suggest renting a car here — especially because traffic in the cities is very hectic and accidents are common. That said, car rentals are affordable, costing around 500,000 VND per day. An IDP (International Driving Permit) is required. For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Vietnam

In the southern part of Vietnam, the dry season lasts from December to late April/May while the rainy season occurs from May to the end of November. The rainy season usually just means brief heavy downpours in the afternoon, although sometimes the Mekong Delta will flood. The dry season is the best time to visit but keep in mind that it’s winter up north and it’s going to be a lot colder in the north than the south. Rainy season isn’t that but either but, like the name implies, it rains a lot.

May through November is still a good time to visit. Temperatures rarely dip below 20°C (68°F), but they can sometimes get as high as 40°C (104°F) in the hottest months (March to the end of May). The south especially gets very hot and humid during this time but it’s perfect beach weather!

Along the central coast, the rainfall pattern differs quite a bit. In the northern part of the region (like Hué and Da Nang), the rain lasts from September to February. February to May is the best time to visit this area. Temperatures soar from June to August, often in the high 30s°C (80s°F).

In Northern Vietnam, the weather is most pleasant from October to December.

The weather in Vietnam varies so much per region so it’s hard to pick the best time to go. But generally, it’s recommended to visit sometime between September-December and March-April if you’re hoping to get an overall experience in the country.

How to Stay Safe in Vietnam

Vietnam is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel. Violent crime is really, really rare. Petty theft is the most likely thing to happen to you here. Always keep your valuables secure when out and about just to be safe. Lock your windows and use common safety sense, especially in bars at night and in touristy areas.

Traffic in the major cities (specifically Hanoi) is super hectic and there are virtually no rules of the road. There are also millions of motorbikes and scooters here (literally). For that reason, take extra caution when crossing the street. It’s best to just walk as directly and calmly as possible and let the traffic weave around you. If you’re not comfortable doing that alone, follow locals when they cross.

If renting a bike or riding on the bake of one, make sure you always wear a helmet. Accidents are incredibly common here, both in the traffic-heavy cities but also in rural areas where roads can be less than optimal.

There are some common scams in Vietnam, such as the motorbike scam where vendors try to charge you for pre-existing damage to your bike rental. When renting anything, take photos and videos beforehand just in case.

Be sure to always count your change. The money is similar looking here so oftentimes people will “mistakenly” give you the wrong change hoping you won’t notice that the 200,000 VND bill you just got is actually only 20,000. Always count your change here!

Most scams here are really just people trying to try to nickel and dime you and try to get you to spend extra money since they know, as a tourist, you have more than they do. You can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). Use common sense when using dating apps while traveling and meet in public places.

Street food here is very safe, but whenever you’re not sure of where to eat simply find somewhere where there are locals eating. If it’s good (and safe) enough for them, you should be fine. Avoid meat that looks uncooked or that has been out in the sun too long. Always wash your hands before and after eating just to be safe.

If you experience an emergency, dial 113 for assistance.

Be sure to make copies of your important documents in case of theft.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Vietnam Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

  • Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
  • Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
  • Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
  • Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
  • Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
  • SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
  • LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
  • Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Vietnam Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Vietnam travel and continue planning your trip:

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

Biking the Mekong Delta in Vietnam

Biking the Mekong Delta in Vietnam

Why I’ll Never Return to Vietnam

Why I’ll Never Return to Vietnam

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Vietnam Travel Tips: 15 Things to Know Before Going to Vietnam

If you are planning a visit to Vietnam and have never been to SE Asia before, be prepared for a bit of culture shock. The traffic is horrendous, many people don’t speak English, the food is not what you’re used to, cleanliness standards are quite different, and you may have to use the occasional squatty potty.

But if you mentally prepare yourself for the challenges and excitement that lie ahead, you’ll absolutely fall in love with this beautiful, diverse, and amazing country! After traveling all over Vietnam, we decided to move to Saigon last year, and all of our time here has allowed us to narrow down the most important Vietnam travel tips.

Based on our experience living in Vietnam and traveling the country extensively, we have compiled a list of 15 things you should know before visiting Vietnam so you can avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

15 Travel Tips for Visiting Vietnam

1. arrange your visa before arriving in vietnam.

Things to Know Before Visiting Vietnam: Confusing visa process

Unlike neighboring Thailand and Cambodia , most visitors can’t simply arrive in Vietnam and get stamped into the country. All nationalities outside of Southeast Asia require some type of visa or preapproval letter before arriving in Vietnam.

Fortunately, it’s actually easy for citizens of most countries to obtain a visa either through the new eVisa process or by being pre-approved for a visa on arrival.

Unfortunately, the visa process for Vietnam is made more confusing by the proliferation of travel agencies offering the pre-approval service and competing for your business online. There are a lot of official-looking websites that aren’t really official. Many of these sites have the word “government” or “govt” in their URL to be tricky.

There is only one official eVisa site maintained by the Vietnamese government: https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/trang-chu-ttdt . If you want a 30-day, single-entry e-visa you should proceed directly to that URL.

However, if you want to stay longer than 30 days or want a multiple entry visa, you’ll need to select one of the official-looking but not-official tourist agencies to provide you with a pre-approval letter to visit Vietnam.

For the most part, they are all legit, so your chances of getting scammed out of a few dollars are relatively low. But it sure makes things confusing!

We can personally vouch for the authenticity of  http://www.vietnamvisapro.net/ as we’ve used them several times and never had any issues.

Steps for Obtaining a 30-Day Single-Entry eVisa

  • Visit this website;  https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/trang-chu-ttdt . This is the only official government website . All others only look official but are run by tourist agencies.
  • Upload your passport data page image and a passport photo (straight looking without glasses).
  • Pay the fee by credit card.
  • You will be emailed a registration code which you can use to check the status of your eVisa .
  • Wait 3 working days for processing.
  • Once approved, print your e-visa, and remember to pack it in your carry-on luggage!

The Steps to Obtaining a 30-day or 90-day Visa on Arrival

  • Find an online service like  http://www.vietnamvisapro.net/ or one of the countless other options.
  • Complete the visa application.
  • Pay the fee.
  • Wait 2 working days (usually less) for the letter of approval.
  • Print the approval letter.
  • Get passport photos taken if you don’t have them already. If you forget this step, you can get them taken at the airport for an inflated charge of ~$5 per photo (but it’s best not to rely on this option).
  • Pack your approval letter, passport photos, and cash. Make sure they are all in your carry-on/hand luggage!
  • At the airport, you’ll pay a stamping fee – either $25 or $50 depending on the length of visa you’re applying for (see below). Be sure to bring US Dollars in reasonably good condition – bills with no rips or writing.

2. It’s Best to Fly in Vietnam

Vietnam is a very long, thin country. From the city of Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south, the distance is over 1,000 miles and would take about 30 hours by car. Even with a whole month in Vietnam , if you want to hit all of the highlights in the south, central, and northern regions, you should definitely plan on flying.

If you take a bus or the train, you may save a few dollars, but you’ll waste a ton of time covering these massive distances. Plus, you can find really inexpensive domestic flights, especially if you book ahead. Vietjet Air is a popular domestic carrier with inexpensive flights (although it is not the most punctual airline).

Check Flight Prices on Skyscanner

3. Be Prepared for the Heat (and the Cold)

Things to Know Before Visiting Vietnam: Sweating in Ninh Binh

Whether you’re visiting south, central, or northern Vietnam, you can expect a lot of heat and humidity. The climate of the entire country is considered to be mild tropical or subtropical. So if your hair is like mine and turns into an unruly mop at the slightest hint of humidity, consider yourself screwed. Plus, any makeup you apply will slide off your face within 30 seconds of stepping outside.

Overall, you can expect some rain in the summer and autumn months, especially if you are visiting Vietnam from July to November. And in the north, the temperatures can get quite cold during the winter months (December – February), with occasional snow in the mountains around Sapa .

Central Vietnam is generally warm year-round and can get so unbearably hot in the summer months. Make sure you take this into account if you want to visit Hue , Hoi An , or Da Nang . The intense summer heat can make it so that leaving your air-conditioned hotel room takes the maximum amount of effort.

Be sure to check the weather in every city that you plan on visiting in Vietnam prior to departing so that you can plan (and pack) accordingly.

4. Learn Some Vietnamese

Things to Know Before Visiting Vietnam: Hug at H'mong wedding in Sapa

English is taught in schools in many countries in SE Asia, so locals tend to be multilingual. This is especially true of anyone working in shops, restaurants, hotels, or places that tourists frequent. And many people want to learn English as tourism is seen as a very lucrative profession. So getting around without a phrasebook or any basic conversational dialect is no problem.

But in rural parts of Vietnam, many people do not speak any English at all. Or if they do, it is incredibly basic. Even at restaurants, shops, and some hotels, you may have a challenging time communicating to place an order or ask how much something costs.

Plan on learning a few phrases to get around. “Xin chĂ o” (pronounced “sin jow”) means “hello” and “cáșŁm ÆĄn” (pronounced “kam on”) is “thank you”. And the one you’ll probably use most frequently – “bia” (pronounced “bee-ah”) means “beer”. Use Google Translate and pick up a Vietnamese phrase book to help you get around.

5. Crossing the Street is Terrifying

Things to Know Before Visiting Vietnam: Street crossings are crazy

The traffic in Vietnam is world-renowned for being insane. But not as much because of cars, more because of the thousands of motorbikes that dominate the roadways, weaving in and out of traffic. Walk signals and the white lines that generally indicate “pedestrian crossing” zones don’t hold much weight here. Motorbikes and cars will not stop for pedestrians unless they absolutely have to.

And since motorbike drivers don’t follow classic traffic rules – such as staying off of the sidewalks, going the right way down a one-way street, or stopping for red lights – you’ll have to be on high alert every time you attempt to cross the street.

As a general rule, you should begin walking confidently once you see a break in traffic and have faith that the cars and motorbikes will weave around you. They probably won’t stop, but they won’t actually hit you. Drivers seem to be better about this in Ho Chi Minh City and not as effective in Hanoi . Regardless, use caution and don’t expect your normal pedestrian rights from home to apply in Vietnam.

6. Get a Vietnamese SIM Card

Things to Know Before Visiting Vietnam: Baby photo shoot in Sapa

You’ll find that even in remote areas of the country, including Sapa , Halong Bay , and Ninh Binh , the Wi-Fi signal is strong. And if you have a phone that is unlocked, you can pick up a Vietnamese sim card and get 60 gigs of data for less than $10. The 4G service works great pretty much everywhere.

No need to upgrade your cell service from home to an international plan while visiting Vietnam!

Viettel vs. MobiFone vs Vinaphone: Which is better? During multiple trips to Vietnam, we have used Mobifone, Viettel, and Vinaphone. We recommend Viettel – it is hands down the best Vietnam SIM card for tourists .

7. It’s Really, Really Cheap

Things to Know Before Visiting Vietnam: Haircut in Hanoi

The caveat to this is that you can certainly spend a lot and find luxury tours and accommodations while visiting Vietnam if you choose. But if you are on a moderate budget like us (we generally spend $80-100/day between the two of us), it’s really easy to do here.

You can find lovely boutique hotels in the $30-40 USD/night range and really comfy Airbnbs for around $20-25 USD/night. If you’re living in Vietnam long-term, you can rent an apartment or house for around $300-600/month. Trains and buses are quite affordable and comfortable. And if you use the Grab app instead of taxis, you’ll rarely pay more than a few dollars to get anywhere in the city.

Food is quite cheap as well. If you don’t mind eating on tiny plastic stools, you can get a filling meal for around $2 USD. Even fancy meals rarely cost more than $20 USD per person. Domestic beer is generally less than $1 USD per can or bottle. And if you plan on shopping for souvenirs, you’ll be expected to haggle a bit on prices. Start by offering 50% of their asking price, and you’ll end up meeting somewhere in the middle.

8. Check the Toilet Seat before Sitting

Things to Know Before Visiting Vietnam: Wet Toilet Seats

The toilet situation in SE Asia takes some getting used to. Most bathrooms in Vietnam have adopted Western-style toilets over squatty potties (although you may encounter one every now and again). But often, you’ll need to pay to use them (generally 2,000 VND). And they don’t always have toilet paper. Most Vietnamese people prefer to use sprayers to clean their bums.

And that spray water gets all over the toilet seat. No one seems to have an interest in cleaning up after themselves. If I had $1 for every time I’ve accidentally sat down on a wet toilet seat in SE Asia, I’d be able to travel forever. Carry some tissues in your pocket and give the seat a good wipe before you sit down.

9. Always Wear a Helmet, it’s the Law

Things to Know Before Visiting Vietnam: Always wear your helmet

In December of 2007, Vietnam enacted a comprehensive mandatory helmet law to help to lessen the country’s traffic fatalities. Vietnam is the second-highest country in SE Asia for traffic fatalities with 24.5 per 100,000. And motorbikes are much more common than cars here, accounting for 95% of registered vehicles in the country.

The law is strictly enforced and today, you’ll see most people wearing them around cities. And it’s helped. A lot. The AIP Foundation estimates that 15,000 fatalities and 500,000 injuries have been prevented in the 10 years since the law was enacted.

As a foreigner, you’ll be expected to wear one as well during your visit to Vietnam. And not just if/when you rent a motorbike, you’ll also need one if you take one of the many Grab bikes that dominate the roadways. But don’t worry, they’ll have an extra one for you to use.

10. Use Grab, not Taxis

Things to Know Before Visiting Vietnam: Mekong River Delta

Speaking of Grab, you should plan on using this service rather than taxis. Grab is the Uber of SE Asia. Simply download the app and find a driver anytime you need a ride. Keep in mind it often takes longer than hailing a taxi, and the drivers occasionally cancel the ride, but it’s far easier than having to negotiate your taxi fare prior to departing. And it’s so much cheaper!

You can load your credit card info or opt to pay cash for each ride. You’ll rarely pay more than $2 USD to get around the city. You’ll save yourself a ton of time, money, and hassle if you use Grab during your visit to Vietnam – trust us!

11. Don’t Expect to Walk on the Sidewalk

Things to Know Before Visiting Vietnam: Typical sidewalk in Hanoi

There are plenty of wide sidewalks in the cities of Vietnam, so you might think you can escape the crazy traffic, right? Wrong. You’ll find that most of the time, you have to walk in the street anyway because the sidewalks are filled with dozens of parked motorbikes or plastic restaurant tables.

Why Vietnam has decided that motorbike parking is more important than having a place for pedestrians to walk is beyond me. And frankly, it’s really annoying in the touristy areas of Hanoi and Saigon. But as mentioned above, motorbike drivers are good about weaving around pedestrians in Vietnam.

You’ll appreciate towns like Hoi An that have designated pedestrian areas, so you don’t have to worry about getting sideswiped by a motorbike while wandering down the side of the road.

12. Get a Debit Card that Refunds International ATM Fees

Things to Know Before Visiting Vietnam: ATMs don't dispense much cash

It’s pretty rare to find ATMs in Vietnam that will dispense more than 3,000,000 VND (~$130 USD), and many will only give you 2,000,000 VND (~$85 USD) at a time. Plus, you’ll be charged a transaction fee each time you use one that will range from $1 – $5 USD. And it’s pretty rare to find restaurants, bars, or shops that take a Visa card. If they do, they generally charge an additional 3% as well.

We’ve also found ourselves needing to visit up to five ATMs before finally finding one that will actually work. So don’t wait until the last minute to withdraw cash or give yourself a small window of time. Surprisingly, we had the most difficult time finding ATMs that would take foreign cards in downtown Hanoi.

Be sure to check with your bank prior to departing to ensure that they refund international ATM charges. Also, check to make sure they don’t charge international fees. You’ll also need to call your bank to release your cards for international use.

We love the Charles Schwab debit card that offers zero international fees and refunds all of your ATM fees. And the Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card is best for earning points while traveling. We use the Chase card for booking hotels and tours and our Charles Schwab card for getting money out of the ATM when visiting Vietnam.

13. It’s Not as Conservative as You Think

Things to Know Before Visiting Vietnam: Smiling in Sapa

Prior to visiting Vietnam, I was under the impression that I’d need to dress very conservatively. And while many people do tend to keep their shoulders and knees covered, regardless of the blazing temperatures, many younger locals show far more skin than I was anticipating.

And the rules are more relaxed when visiting temples in Vietnam compared to some of its neighbors. There are signs requesting that visitors cover up, but they are rarely followed or enforced.

You may feel a bit uncomfortable wandering around town in a half-shirt but don’t be afraid to pack shorts or dresses for your Vietnam vacation.

14. It’s Also Not as Communist as You Think

Things to Know Before Visiting Vietnam: Communist Propaganda Posters

Vietnam is one of only five communist countries that still remain in the world today. However, you won’t encounter much evidence of communism as you go about your day as a tourist. Most businesses are privately owned, and there is a strong sense of capitalism in the country.

Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling metropolis full of highrise buildings and it even has its own stock exchange. And a new generation of young Vietnamese entrepreneurs is hard at work on cool new startups in industries ranging from tech to craft beer .

Ho Chi Minh (affectionately known as “Uncle Ho”) is still revered as the liberator of Vietnam by both the French and the Americans, but the tides seem to be rapidly and decidedly turning towards capitalism.

In case you’re wondering… the other four communist countries are China, Cuba, Laos, and North Korea. 

15. Remember – here it’s Called The American War

Things to Know Before Visiting Vietnam: It's called the American War

It’s not called the Vietnam War here. We were invading their country, after all.

But don’t worry – relations were normalized between the US and Vietnam in the mid-1990s thanks to efforts by then-President Bill Clinton and Senator John McCain, who spent five years as a POW in Hoa Lo prison in Hanoi during the war.

These days the American War is a distant memory, and you’ll find the Vietnamese hold no ill will against Americans. In fact, if someone finds out that you’re American, they will probably start telling you all about their extended family that now lives in America. Many Vietnamese in the south worked for the US military during the war, and they were offered asylum in the US when the American troops finally pulled out of Saigon.

That’s it – 15 Vietnam travel tips! Do you have any advice for traveling to Vietnam? Let us know in the comments below.

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Vietnam Travel Tips: Things to Know Before Going to Vietnam

About the Author:

Valerie Wheatley

Val grew up in Portland, Oregon but moved to Oahu on a whim back in 2013. She sold her house and all of her belongings and bought a one-way ticket. Since then she’s taken two around-the-world trips and has visited 60-ish countries while living out of a duffel bag. Val started documenting the Wandering Wheatleys travels back in 2013 as a way to update friends and family about her whereabouts and to relay humorous daily interactions. The only readers were her mom and her mother-in-law but that didn’t stop her! These days you’ll find Val dreaming up future trips, creating new travel content, managing a team of amazing travel enthusiasts, and chasing around her two adorable but naughty kids.

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6 thoughts on “vietnam travel tips: 15 things to know before going to vietnam”.

travelling to vietnam tips

Looks like the http://www.vietnamvisapro.net/  web site is defunct.

travelling to vietnam tips

You guys are my go-to for helpful info! Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us in super easy terms! Just one question – you said you have to upload a “passport photo” for the evisa, but then you say in parenthesis “straight looking without glasses” as if we can take our own picture. So do we HAVE to use an official passport photo (the passport photo will be on the passport info page anyway), or can we take our own picture for that one part?

travelling to vietnam tips

Hey Kate – we’re so happy to hear that! Yeah, you can take your own photo to upload for the evisa, we’ve done that a ton. Just take it in front of a white background and check the photo size requirements. Good luck!

travelling to vietnam tips

Hi, Can you tell where in Ho Chi Minh City is the good place for FX to get local currency?

travelling to vietnam tips

Thank you for this insightful blog post. I found it extremely helpful.

travelling to vietnam tips

Awesome job you guys have done to help travellers worldwide when visiting Vietnan. However, just a note that China and the other countries mentioned are light-years distant from communists in essence, it is worth comparing their government models with basic concepts proposed by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels on their books. Instead, China represents a governmental dictatorship where gaps between wealthy and poor are massive, typically as in most capitalist countries worldwide.

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10 things you need to know before visiting Vietnam

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written by Joanne Owen

updated 3.10.2023

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Given the breadth of bucket-list-level experiences that await visitors to Vietnam , planning the perfect trip takes some effort. This is where our run-down of 10 things you need to know before visiting Vietnam comes in. From wising-up on when to visit, to sorting your Vietnam visa , these insights should set you up for an unforgettable trip of a lifetime. And that goes whether you intend to head to Ha Long’s otherworldly karsts, immerse yourself in the Mekong Delta, or hike the lush Central Highlands.

Ban Gioc in Vietnam waterfall is one of the top 10 waterfalls in the world © Shutterstock

Ban Gioc in Vietnam  Â© Shutterstock

  • 1. Select your season and region wisely

Around 1000 miles long and 30 miles wide, Vietnam boasts a bounty of varied landscapes across its slender mass.

And, given that it encompasses a tropical climate zone and a temperate zone — both of which experience the annual monsoon — Vietnam also has a variety of temperatures and seasonal rain patterns.

In terms of monsoon season, expect heavy rainfall in the north and south from May through to October. Meanwhile, in the central areas, the rain is at its heaviest from September to January.

As a result, you’ll want to choose where and when to visit in conjunction with considering these seasonal patterns.

Keen to cover the whole country? Your best bet is to visit in autumn/winter (September-December), or spring (March and April).

Hanoi Train street, Vietnam © Shutterstock

Hanoi train street, Vietnam © Shutterstock

2. Multi-destination itineraries are most rewarding 

Considering the country’s diversity, we recommend researching multi-destination itineraries that’ll enable you to max out your experience of Vietnam.

Mulling over the multi-destination option applies whether you’re planning to spend a week or two in Vietnam, or several months — the longer the better, in our opinion! Just come prepared with the right Vietnam visa , but more on that later.

In the meantime, read on for a food-for-thought itinerary suggestion.

Culture and nature from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City

Kick off your trip in the capital of Hanoi , where we suggest visiting Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum, and seeing a traditional water puppet show. 

From Hanoi, head to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay . Here 3000 forest-capped limestone islets rise from emerald waters that conceal countless caves and grottoes. It really is an enchanting place that befits its name — in Vietnamese, Ha Long means “descending dragon”.

After being well and truly awe-inspired by Ha Long’s natural majesty, visit the royal tombs of King Tu Duc, King Khai Dinh and Tu Hieu pagoda. And how about cruising the Perfume River on a dragon boat before exploring Hoi An , another UNESCO-designated site?

Then, before winding up your adventure in Ho Chi Minh City , take a trip to Cai Rang floating market — the largest of its kind in the Mekong Delta .

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum on the Ba Dinh Square in Hanoi, Vietnam © Shutterstock

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Hanoi, Vietnam © Shutterstock

  • 3. Sort your visa in advance

Not to rain on your exciting itinerary-planning parade, but it’s also important to attend to practical matters, like sorting your Vietnam visa . And the good news is, you can apply for this online, with ease. 

Before you start the application process, read on to find out which Vietnam visa you need.

 Stays of 15 days or less

If you’re planning to visit Vietnam as a tourist or business traveller for 15 days or less, and hold a British, French, Italian, German or Spanish passport, you don’t need a visa. If you’re staying for longer, or hold a different passport, keep reading!

Stays of up to 30 days

The standard Vietnam visa covers stays of up to 30 days, and costs £49.95 per person. You apply online . On approval, your e-visa will be emailed to you ­— simple!

Stays of more than 30 days 

For stays that exceed 30 days, you can’t apply for an e-visa online. Instead, you’ll need to apply for a physical visa in person ­at the Vietnam embassy .

Panorama Aerial view of Hoi An ancient town © Shutterstock

Aerial view of Hoi An ancient town © Shutterstock

4. Getting around is easy and affordable 

However long you’re planning to stay, you’d be wise to plan how you’ll get around Vietnam . Happily, the country’s public transport network is pretty comprehensive, and eminently affordable.

The majority of visitors opt to travel by bus. These days, most bus routes have fixed-price tickets, with improved comfort levels coming courtesy of the “open-tour” buses that traverse the main tourist trails. 

In terms of trains, the routes you’ll most likely want to be aware of include the shuttle from Da Nang to HuĂ© (2-3hr). 

The overnighters from HuĂ© to Hanoi (11-16hr) and Hanoi to Lao Cai (8-9hr) might also come in handy. 

Vietnamese vendor in Hanoi, Vietnam © Shutterstock

Vietnamese vendor in Hanoi © Shutterstock

5. It’s worth learning some lingo 

While English is widely spoken in the bigger cities and areas that attract a large volume of tourists, it’s worth arming yourself with a few Vietnamese words and phrases. 

Not only is this polite, but it might also make your journeys along lesser-travelled roads less bumpy on the communication front!

So, get yourself a Vietnamese phrasebook or, if you’re planning to stay for a few months, consider taking an online course.

travelling to vietnam tips

Rice fields in the valley in Bac Son © Shutterstock

6. Haggling is a way of life 

If you’re a first-time visitor to Vietnam, be aware that haggling is the norm in many situations. 

Beyond bargaining over prices in more obvious contexts, such as tourist-oriented markets, you can also haggle over prices for tours booked through local operators. 

The same goes for taxis — just be sure to agree a price before setting off.

As a general guide, keep bartering fun and friendly, and don’t insult anyone by offering a crazily low price. 

Of course, your bartering success rate will be all the better (and more fun) if you follow our advice to learn some lingo!

travelling to vietnam tips

Scenic view of Phu Van Lau Pavilion, Vietnam © Shutterstock

  • 7. Local etiquette should be observed

Alongside having some Vietnamese under your belt, and embracing bartering, we also advise following a few pillars of Vietnamese etiquette. 

First up, wearing skimpy clothing is not the done thing in Vietnam. And, when visiting temples and pagodas, you should show respect by covering your arms and legs. Remember, they’re places of worship and reflection.

Finally, a few words of caution around photography. Always ask before you take a photo of someone, and don’t take photos of anything related to the military. Doing the latter could land you with a substantial fine, at the very least.

Railway Hai Van Pass, Vietnam © Shutterstock

Bach Ma Mountain, Hue, Vietnam © Shutterstock

  • 8. Carry cash in rural areas

Pretty obvious one, this, but the more rural and remote you go, the less chance you have of finding a cash machine.

So, before heading for the hills or voyaging to one of Vietnam’s smaller islands, work out how much cash you’ll need to eat, drink, make merry, and bed down.

Halong Bay, Vietnam © Shutterstock

Cruising around Bai Tu Long Bay and Halong Bay, Vietnam © Shutterstock

  • 9. Vietnam’s street food is sublime

While Vietnam isn’t short of high-end restaurants, its street food culture is out-of-this-world tasty, and affordable with it.

As for what to try, Banh mi is one of Vietnam’s most popular street foods for very good reason. This beast of a baguette is packed with meat (often pork or chicken), smeared with pate, stuffed with crunchy veg, and typically flavoured with coriander, chilli and mayo. 

Other favourites include Banh xeo (sizzling pancakes), and lip-smackingly satisfying Bun Cha (grilled meatballs).

Cai Rang floating market, Vietnam © Shutterstock

Cai Rang floating market, Can Tho, Vietnam © Shutterstock

  • 10. 
 but don’t drink the tap water

To avoid getting sick, don’t drink tap water in Vietnam. Instead, stock up on big bottles of filtered water, and don’t forget to wash fruit and veg before chomping into them.

A word of warning, though. There is a bit of an issue with fake bottled water, so best to purchase it from known supermarkets and convenience stores.

And that’s it, folks! From sorting your Vietnam visa , to researching a rewarding multi-destination itinerary, these 10 things to know before visiting Vietnam should stand you in excellent stead.

Feeling inspired? Our local experts can plan wonderful trips for you to Vietnam, without the hassle of planning and booking.

This article was brought to you in sponsorship with e-visa.co.uk

Make sure to add Ninh Binh to your Vietnam itinerary

Rice field and river, NinhBinh, Vietnam © Shutterstock

Sarah Clark

written by Sarah Clark

  • 2. Multi-destination itineraries are most rewarding
  • 4. Getting around is easy and affordable
  • 5. It’s worth learning some lingo
  • 6. Haggling is a way of life

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Visit the highlights of Vietnam while tracing parts of the war across the country. Notable sights include Cu Chi Tunnels, Ba Den Battlefield, Son My, the Demilitarized Zone that divided North and South Vietnam, as well as museums and more in Hanoi. End your trip with a leisurely Halong Bay cruise.

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Vietnam and Laos - Highlights and Exploration

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Vietnam and Laos - Highlights and Exploration

Start your trip in Ho Chi Minh City (former Saigon) and explore the city and the Mekong Delta. From here, you make your way to Central Vietnam with Hue and Hoi An before Hanoi and Halong Bay await. Afterwards, catch a flight to Laos and spend your remaining nights in fascinating Luang Prabang.

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Travelling with family? Explore the best areas of Vietnam with suitable activities for the whole family. Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are of course part of it, so is Halong Bay, a boat tour in the Mekong Delta, as well as the beautiful ancient town of Hoi An.

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Classic Vietnam and Cambodia

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Planning a special trip with your beloved? Vietnam is the ideal mix of culture (Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City) paired with nature (Halong Bay, Mekong Delta) and ending the trip on picturesque Phu Quoc - crystal clear water and white sandy beaches included!

Signature Vietnam & Thailand

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Signature Vietnam & Thailand

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Three Day Sapa Tour from Hanoi

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Joanne Owen

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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Travel advice for Vietnam

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Vietnam

  • Crime and personal safety tips Vietnam
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  • Getting around Vietnam: Transportation Tips
  • How to get to Vietnam
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20 genius vietnam travel tips – full guide 2024.

the backpacking family Ho Chi minh mekong river tour

Table of Contents

In this article we are going to share 20 genius Vietnam travel tips in 2024. If you’re planning to travel to Vietnam read this article CAREFULLY to avoid making mistakes and missing important things. 

We absolutely love Vietnam and we can’t stop going back. Vietnam is an amazing country to travel. However, it does have some challenges and some things that you need to know before you go. As long term travelers and a FULL TIME travel family – we have made all the mistakes and had to develop ways to travel better. We are passionate about sharing our tried and tested top tips and travel secrets with you to help you make the most of your Vietnam trip. 

These Vietnam travel tips should help you have an amazing time in Vietnam. Please read this guide carefully if you’re planning to visit Vietnam as we think it will help you a lot.  

Summary of essential Vietnam travel tips

Brief summary of our Vietnam travel tips – KEEP READING for full details

  • Get set up with a local SIM card
  • Always check your change
  • Watch out for ATM charges
  • If you’re going rural take plenty of cash
  • Avoid popular activities on public holidays
  • Respect local customs and culture
  • Look after your valuables
  • Take care on the roads
  • Make the most of the street food
  • Download Google translate
  • Use a taxi app to get around
  • Plan your itinerary carefully
  • Use offline maps to get around
  • Get bigger water bottles
  • Book trips and tours 
  • Splash out on an amazing hotel
  • Protect yourself from the sun
  • Consider taking a luxury cruise
  • Try bartering
  • Don’t miss Sapa

What are the BEST places to visit in Vietnam?

Before we share out PRO Vietnam travel tips we just wanted to share a few recommendations for Vietnam.

Mekong river tour vinh trang temple

If you are planning to visit Vietnam you may be considering a visit to Ho Chi Minh City and the South. There are lots of awesome things to do around Ho Chi Minh including boat trips to the Mekong Delta, day trips to the historic Cu Chi tunnels and plenty of epic temples. Ho Chi Minh is a great place to experience culture, history and amazing food.

Tran Quoc Pagoda hanoi tour

We highly recommend a visit to Hanoi in the North. This city is also packed with culture and history and it is a great hub to explore other awesome destinations in the north of Vietnam. Whether it’s walking around Hanoi city exploring temples , or trying the epic Hanoi street food – this city doesn’t disappoint. 

Backpacking family Homestay sapa pool

If you get a chance we highly recommend a visit to Sapa. There are plenty of amazing things to do in Sapa . This is an awesome destination for stunning trekking in the hills around Sapa , cultural villages and authentic Sapa homestays . It is possible to take a night train from Hanoi to Sapa – this is a great experience. If the night train is not for you there are other ways to travel from Hanoi to Sapa . 

The backpacking family Ha Long bay luxury cruises

We also highly recommend a visit to Ha Long Bay. If you are looking for superlative splashout opportunities consider taking a luxury cruise in Ha Long Bay . We loved Peony cruises and highly recommend their package. 

What are the BEST things to do in Vietnam?

Ho Chi minh mekong river tour the backpacking family

There are absolutely loads of amazing things to do in Vietnam. In some ways it is hard to narrow it down. To help you you plan your trip here is a list of some of our TOP PICK things to do in Vietnam:

  • Explore traditional Vietnamese temples 
  • Take a Mekong delta boat tour (around $15 all inclusive from Ho Chi Minh)
  • Visit the war Relics Museum (Ho Chi Minh)
  • See a traditional water puppet show 
  • Visit a Vietnamese market  (e.g. Ben Thanh market or Dong Xuan market)
  • Try a traditional Vietnamese cooking course 
  • Visit the Reunification palace (Ho Chi Minh)
  • Get a Vietnamese massage (amazing prices – normally under $10)
  • Visit the Cu Chi tunnels (Around $20 all inclusive from Ho Chi Minh)
  • Visit the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum (Hanoi)
  • See the iconic Tran Quoc Pagoda (Hanoi)
  • Check out Hanoi train street 
  • Explore the Temple of literature (Hanoi)
  • Visit the Mua Cave and viewpoint (Trang An near Hanoi)
  • Visit the summit of Fanispan (trek or take the cable car and mountain railway)
  • Go trekking in Sapa and stay in an authentic homestay
  • Take a luxury cruise of Ha Long Bay
  • Explore Cat Ba island

1 Get set up with a local SIM card

Viettel store SIM cards Vietnam

Having a local SIM is very useful whether you’re booking a taxi online, communicating with a hotel or just scrolling through nonsense on a long bus journey. 

When you arrive in Vietnam we recommend that you get a local SIM card. One way to do this is to buy one in the airport when you first arrive (this is convenient but may be a little bit more expensive). Alternatively, wait until you’re in town and then find a SIM card. There are many SIM card companies available in Vietnam and the choice can be a little bit overwhelming. Different companies offer different packages with varying amounts of data, coverage and prices. Be aware that many SIM card deals only include data and not calls or text messages. You may struggle to make outgoing calls or send text messages, therefore we recommend that you connect with locals through WhatsApp. 

Viettel sim

You can find some mobile network shops around towns and cities. One of the biggest network providers is Viettel. They generally have stores around towns and cities and offer a range of deals and packages. Viettel offers the best coverage – however their deals are generally quite expensive. Viettel 30 day packages tend to range between 150,000VND – 300,000VND and include a data limit (normally 10GB – 60GB depending on the package). You can find cheaper 30 day sim cards in small local corner shops and small tour offices.  We found Mobiphone offered good deals at competitive prices. The best way to get a good deal is shop around and barter. You can normally find deals for around 90,000VND – 150,000VND. Shoot for 30GB or more.

2 Always check your change

Vietnam money dong currency

Here is one of our PRO Vietnam travel tips for being savvy. Start getting your head around the currency before you go. You may be able to get hold of some cash in advance or withdraw from an ATM in the airport. Alternatively bring some US dollars (or another local currency) and exchange in the airport to get you going. 

The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese dong (VND). The Vietnamese dong is quite a challenge and currency because the notes are very large. In general you’re not likely to pay for anything that is less than 10,000VND (which is roughly ÂŁ0.35 or $0.40). These large numbers can make it very difficult to convert currencies, work out prices and figure out how much change you need. We always recommend that you take time to check your change carefully and don’t feel rushed or flustered. Some travelers can be short changed because locals know that the currency is difficult to work with. 

3 Watch out for ATM charges

ATM vietnam Agribank

There are plenty of ATM machines available in all of the main towns and cities in Vietnam. Most ATM machines in Vietnam accept foreign cards including Master Cards, Maestro, Visa and Visa debit cards. However, your local bank may charge you for using your card overseas. Furthermore, Vietnamese ATM machines generally have a charge for using international cards. ATM machines in Vietnam will give you an option to do your transaction in English and they should tell you the withdrawal charges before you withdraw money. We found that Agribank had some of the lowest charges and they are quite widespread around Vietnam. We also recommend that you use a good international card such as Starling or Wise (minimal or no international fees). 

4 If you’re going rural take plenty of cash

Treking in Su Pan village Sapa

Here is one of our Vietnam travel tips for going rural. If you are planning to go to a rural location in Vietnam make sure you take plenty of cash. For example, if you’re traveling to Sapa there are a few cash machines around town. However, as soon as you get out of town there are no cash machines for miles. Therefore, if you are visiting this area make sure you get plenty of cash before you disappear into the hills. Many of the islands in Vietnam are recently developed, however if you’re planning to visit any of the smaller and less developed Islands we recommend taking plenty of cash with you. 

5 Avoid popular activities on public holidays

Getting around in Sapa central square

In recent years domestic tourism has become very popular in Vietnam. increasingly Vietnamese people are traveling around Vietnam and enjoying their awesome country. However, this can make it challenging traveling Vietnam especially during public holidays and weekends. Popular activities in Vietnam can get very busy during public holidays and weekends. If you do need to take a long journey during a public holiday we recommend booking your tickets in advance as early as possible. If possible, we recommend planning your trip carefully so that your slower, “down days” fall on any public holidays or weekends in Vietnam. Also, you may notice that some attractions charge a little bit more during the weekends. Lose-lose, it is more busy and you pay more at the weekend! 

6 Respect local customs and culture

Temple vietnam

Vietnam is a very friendly, relax and respectful culture. Vietnamese people are generally quite reserved but they are also friendly and outgoing. One of the most important ways to respect local culture and customs is to make sure that you dress conservatively and respectfully when you are visiting temples and significant landmarks. In general, we recommend that you have shoulders and knees covered when you are visiting temples in Vietnam. 

7 Look after your valuables

bags packing safety

One of our most important Vietnam travel tips is looking after yourself and your belongings. Crime rates are generally quite low in Vietnam. However, it is important to look after yourself and your belongings. Take care if you’re out and about at night, especially if you are on your own. Also watch your bags and belongings especially in busy locations like markets. We tend to use a dry sack inside of a valuables bag to keep cameras and valuables safe. This makes it more difficult for a thief to access and also protect your valuable electrical items in heavy rain. 

Vietnam also has night buses which is a cheap and convenient way to travel around. However, your valuables bag may be very vulnerable on a night bus. We recommend using a small padlock to keep your valuables bag secure and make sure it is not in a position that is easy to grab or access. Keep an arm through a stap.   

8 Take care on the roads

Ho Chi Minh traffic

Vietnam has a reputation for hilariously busy roads. If you are visiting one of the biggest cities in Vietnam such as Ho Chi Minh or Hanoi be prepared for an ocean of motorbikes speeding down the streets. If you need to cross a road try to find traffic lights or pedestrian crossings. Many locals just walk slowly into the street keeping an eye out for bikes. Slow and steady movement allows the bikes to pass around them. Whatever you do, always take care around the streets and remain vigilant. 

9 Make the most of the street food

Pho soup the backpacking family food hanoi

One of our top Vietnam travel tips is to make the most of the amazing Vietnamese street food. Street food in Vietnam is delicious, cheap and readily available. The awesome street food culture in Vietnam is an amazing part of the experience of traveling here. Many of the towns and cities in Vietnam had street food markets and plenty of small cafes and restaurants along the streets. If you get a chance, we recommend taking a street food tour.

toasted bahn mi hanoi food

Local guides will be able to show you the best places to eat and tell you about the food. We highly recommend that you try Bahn Mi in Vietnam (this is a french style baguette packed with meat, egg and pickled veggies). Pho Soup is also very common and popular. This noodle soup has a beautiful stock and it is served with sliced meats or prawns and a range of mouthwatering garnishes. Vietnamese spring rolls are also amazing – try them fresh for a crunchy healthy option. Most street food in Vietnam ranges between 30,000VND – 90,000VND. 

10 Download Google translate

the backpacking family trekking in Sapa

Most people in Vietnam speak a reasonably good level of English, especially in the larger towns and cities. However, language can be challenging from time to time. We have found Google Translate to be an amazing language app. Google translate allows you to translate spoken language using your microphone and written text using your camera. In most cases Google Translate is able to help you make sense of documents, information and menus. It is also very good at picking up on spoken text in both Vietnamese and English. If you download Google translate on to your phone you can actually download offline languages so that you can translate without WI-Fi or mobile data. This is super helpful when you are visiting more rural areas with less English and weak wifi. 

11 Use a taxi app to get around

Grab Thailand

One of the most convenient ways to get around Vietnamese cities is to use local taxis. Due to the increase in use of taxi apps it is becoming very challenging to flag taxis at the side of the road. And if you do find taxis at the side of the road you will need to barter with taxi drivers for a reasonable price. A massive advantage of using taxi apps is that the price is fixed by the app. you will be given a fair local price for your journey without needing to barter. If you wish to use a taxi app in Vietnam you will need to have mobile data available on your phone. 

Cars in Vietnam

The main taxi apps in Vietnam are Grab and Gojek. In order to use a taxi app in Vietnam you will need to download the app from your app store. Once you have the app you can register for an account using your local phone number and email address. When you set up your account, allow it to access your phone’s location to book taxis. You can either enter your destination and allow the auto suggest to bring it up or you can use the map function.

Once you have booked your taxi it normally takes 5 or 10 minutes for the taxi to arrive. You are able to cancel your journey shortly after booking if you need to. Once a taxi has agreed to take you you will be given the registration plate and you will be able to message the driver over the app. watch out for your taxi and then just jump in and go. 

You can use both apps simultaneously to find the fastest taxi and cheapest journey. You can also select “pay with cash” when you book your taxi. We found this to be a very simple and convenient option. Most journeys around cities should cost 30,000VND – 150,000VND.

12 Plan your itinerary carefully

H'mong clothing cat cat village the backpacking family

One of our most important Vietnam travel tips is to plan your itinerary carefully. Vietnam is actually a very large country and it takes over 24-hours to travel from the North to the south of Vietnam over land (the country is over 1,000 miles from north to south). Even if you choose to fly this can take up a significant amount of your precious travel time.

Therefore, we recommend planning your itinerary very carefully. Slow down if you can. Consider what things you wish to do before you visit Vietnam and make sure you have enough time to do all of the things you want to do.

the backpacking family halong bay luxury cruise ensuite bathroom

In general if you have less than 10 days in Vietnam we recommend focusing on either the north or the South but don’t try to visit both. If you have 10 days or more in Vietnam it is possible to visit both the north and south of the country. However, if you are really wanting an epic trip that visits all of the must-see destinations in Vietnam, then we recommend taking at least two or three weeks for your trip. 

If you’re planning an itinerary that hits the north and south – it may be more efficient to fly into Ho Chi Minh and fly out of Hanoi. Or Fly into Hanoi and out of Ho Chi Minh. This saves traveling up and down the country unnecessarily. Alternatively, you could travel into Hanoi, then travel down the country to Ho Chi Ming, then travel overland to Cambodia by bus. 

  • Don’t miss our ULTIMATE 10 day step-by-step itinerary for Vietnam
  • We also have a detailed 3 day itinerary for Ho Chi Minh
  • You may also be interested in our 3 day itinerary for Hanoi

13 Use offline maps to get around

hanoi with kids the backpacking family

One of our top Vietnam travel tips is to get hold of some offline maps on your phone. We use an app called Maps.Me to download offline maps in advance. This app syncs up with your phone’s GPS and allows you to pin down your exact location. One of the things that we love about this app is the number of destinations that are listed in the app. You can use the app to search for things like ATM machines, restaurants, petrol stations and much more. Map.Me also allows you to drop pins to remember some of your favourite locations – perfect if you want to revisit places. This really is one of our favourite travel apps. Best of all Maps.Me is a FREE app. 

14 Get big water bottles

Quy Khach waterfall sapa trek

Getting drinking water in Vietnam can actually be challenging at times. Pack a refillable water bottle. It is not recommended to drink water directly from the tap in Vietnam. Therefore, you will need to buy bottles of drinking water. Some hotels and guest houses offer water filling facilities which is very useful.

Alternatively you can buy large bottles of water to refill your water bottle. In some cases you will need to buy 5 liter water bottles (these generally cost around 30,000VND and last for a few days). Alternatively, in some locations you can buy big reusable 15 liter bottles of filtered drinking water. This is a great way to fill your bottle if you’re staying somewhere for a longer stint (these 15 liter bottles are quiet heavy). A 15 liter bottle is likely to last around 1 week or more. This is an environmental and economical way of sourcing water in Vietnam. 

15 Book trips and tours 

Mua cave tour

If you are planning to visit some of the awesome attractions in Vietnam consider booking tours. Tours in Vietnam tend to be very cheap and a fun and convenient way to see local attractions and meet new people. In some cases it may be cheaper to book a tour than to visit independently. Many tours in Vietnam include hotel pickup and drop off, food, guides and other kit that you need. 

There are two ways to book trips and tours in Vietnam: You can either book online in advance or you can find a small tour operator and book directly with them. You generally need to book 1 or 2 days in advance. If you plan to book online in advance, we recommend using Klook to book tours in Vietnam . They have loads of awesome tours in Vietnam and offer very competitive prices. This allows you to read your whole itinerary, work out exactly what’s included, check reviews and find out about pickup and drop off details and timings. 

Tourist information office in Hanoi Vietnam

If you plan to book trips and tours with a local tour operator, you will find plenty of small tour offices located in travel hubs like Ho Chi Minh, the Hanoi old Quarter and Sapa town. Barter with local operators to get the lowest prices. 

The main disadvantage of booking tours is the lack of flexibility. We really enjoy traveling independently because this allows us to see things more cheaply and go at our own pace. However, it is fun to take tours – especially if you just want to relax and go with the flow. 

16 Splash out on an amazing hotel

Laxsik Ecolodge 3

This may not be one of our most savvy Vietnam travel tips but we really want to mention the amazing luxury hotels in Vietnam. If you have ever dreamed of splashing out on a luxury 5-star hotel, Vietnam may well be the best place to do this. Vietnam offers some of the best value for money accommodation in Southeast Asia (and perhaps some of the best in the world!)

You can find luxury 5 star hotel rooms in Vietnam starting at around ÂŁ60 per night. Equivalent hotels in Europe would be likely to set you back around ÂŁ250 per night. For ÂŁ200 per night you can find some incredibly stylish and decadent properties. Another advantage of splashing out on a luxury hotel in Vietnam is the amazing staff. Not only are Vietnamese people incredibly hospitable and helpful, Vietnamese hotels tend to be very well staffed, much better than other parts of the world. So if you stay in a luxury hotel in Vietnam you can expect an impeccable level of service.

So if there is any part of you that wants to experience 5-star luxury, then Vietnam is probably one of the best places in the world to do this! 

BEST 5 star hotels in Ho Chi Minh

Best 5 star hotel in Ho Chi Minh luxury Reverie

  • The Reverie Saigon – SUPER stylish, amazing facilities & location. Book the Reverie on Agoda or Book the Reverie on booking.com
  • Fusion Original Saigon Centre – UNIQUE and artistic beauty & amazing location. You can book Fusion on Agoda or Fusion on booking.com
  • Vinapearl Landmark 81 – Luxury hotel at the top of a skyscraper – paradise in the sky. Reserve Viapearl on Agoda or reserve Vinapearl on booking.com

The Best luxury hotels in Hanoi

Capella Hanoi 5 star

  • The Oriental Jade Hotel Hanoi – Classy, amazing facilities & great location. Book the Oriental Jade on Agoda or Book the Oriental Jade on booking.com
  • The Grand Mercure Hanoi – Very stylish, great views and excellent facilities. Book the Grand Mercure on Agoda or Book the Grand Mercure on booking.com
  • The Capella Hanoi – Very decadent luxury boutique old quarter hotel. Book the Capella on Agoda or book the Capella on booking.com

TOP PICK luxury hotels in Sapa

Silk path sapa hotel

  • Laxsik Ecolodge – Dreamy luxury mountain lodge. Book Laxsik on Agoda or book Laxsik on booking.com
  • Hotel De La Coupole – Beautiful classic style hotel with great facilities. Book Hotel De La Coupole on Agoda or book Hotel De La Coupole on booking.com
  • The Silk Path Grand Resort – Breathtaking 5 star hotel. Book the Silk Path on Agoda or Book the Silk Path on booking.com

17 Protect yourself from the sun

Bright sunshine tropical heat

Vietnam has a hot tropical climate. One of the most important Vietnam travel tips is to make sure that you protect yourself from the climate.  make sure you drink plenty of water and use sun protection. Sun cream in Vietnam is actually quite expensive. Therefore, we recommend packing some factor 50 suncream. If you are planning to be out during the hottest hours of the day, we recommend using suncream and a small umbrella for shade. A small travel umbrella is very useful because it can protect you from both the sun and the rain. If you are planning to be in the water during the heat of the day we recommend using rash guards that have UV protection. 

18 Use night buses and night trains

Hanoi Sapa train sleeper cabin backpacking family

One of our top savvy Vietnam travel tips is to use night buses and night trains. This is a fun and very affordable way to travel around Vietnam. The advantage of taking a night bus or night train is that you do not lose any travel time to your journey. Furthermore, you will also save the price of a night’s accommodation elsewhere.

Hason Hai Van sleeper bus Hanoi Sapa

Whether you are planning to travel from Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi or from Hanoi to Sapa, you can take night trains with comfortable secure lockable cabins. This allows you to walk around the train, look out the window and enjoy the scenery. Vietnam also has some very cheap and very comfortable night buses available. Some night buses have big reclining seats and other night buses offer beds. Buses often have toilets on board and take stops for walking around and buying food and drinks. 

  • Night bus journeys generally cost around $10 – $20
  • Night train journeys generally cost around $30 – $80

If you’re taking a night bus or a night train in Vietnam we recommend bringing some food on the journey with you. Some trains and buses may have snacks available, however this is not reliable. Therefore it is important to bring some food along for the journey. Also we highly recommend that you check your arrival time and choose a service that doesn’t arrive too early in the morning! Some night buses and night trains have very early and unsociable arrival times. 

19 Try bartering

bartering in Asia market seller

One of our budget Vietnam travel tips is to barter. Bartering is a fun and acceptable part of Vietnamese culture. It is not possible to barter for everything in Vietnam, however you can barter for some things. We recommend bartering if you are buying things in markets (especially in tourist areas). You can also barter for taxis (unless you’re using the taxi app). If you decide to book trips or tours through local travel operators you can barter for the cost of the trip. If you are traveling around Vietnam on a tight budget you can also barter for accommodation. Just turn up at a cheap guest house and barter. 

If bartering is done well it can be a very fun and friendly way to connect with locals. keep it in good humor and don’t insult the locals or their products. If you are not happy with the price you don’t need to buy it and if they are not happy with the price they don’t need to sell it. The best bartering is done in good humor and with a good rapport. Don’t miss our full guide on TOP TIPS for bartering in Asia . 

20 Get off the beaten track

trekking in Sapa beautiful Lao Chai valley view

If you are looking for Vietnam travel tips that will help you have a unique, memorable and meaningful experience then get off the beaten track. Try new food, connect with locals and disconnect from tech.  We lament the fact that travel has become such a tick box exercise. Vietnam is a stunning and incredible country with so much to offer. The best way to really experience authentic Vietnam is just to explore – no plan or preconceptions. Vietnam is truly an amazing country with incredible locals. If you are feeling brave and have the time, why not find a town on the map where there is not much information online and just go there? Some of our most intrepid, adventurous and memorable travel experiences have happened when we have just gone off script and explored places. Vietnam is packed with incredible scenery, beautiful towns, amazing people and unexplored areas. 

Where are the best places to stay in Vietnam?

We are very impressed by the quality and selection of hotels in Vietnam. In Vietnam your money goes a long way on hotels. Therefore, this is a great opportunity to splash out. If you have ever dreamed of staying in a luxury hotel, why not do it in one of the cheapest countries for 5-star Hotels? Another thing we love about hotels in Vietnam is the style and character. There are plenty of unique boutique hotels in Vietnam, stylishly decorated and packed with charm and character. 

1 Places to stay in Ho Chi Minh

Hotel Des Arts stylish 5 star hotel ho chi Minh

If you are visiting Ho Chi Minh, the best area to stay is District 1, this is the central district with all of the main attractions. There are plenty of amazing hotels in Ho Chi Minh offering a wide range of rooms and suites for every budget range. There are also some amazing 5 star hotels in Ho Chi Minh . Here are our top pick hotels in Ho Chi Minh:

  • Top Pick budget hotel in Ho Chi Minh: The Lovenote Home Studio (Find Lovenote on Agoda & Lovenote on booking.com )
  • Best mid-range hotel in Ho Chi Minh: Leiden Homestay and Cafe (Find Leiden on Agoda & Leiden on booking.com )
  • Top pick luxury hotel in Ho Chi Minh: The Reverie Saigon (Find the Reverie on Agoda & Reverie on booking.com )

2 Places to stay in Hanoi 

travelling to vietnam tips

If you are visiting Hanoi the best area to stay is the Old quarter, especially near Hoan Kiem lake. Most of the attractions, bars and street food can be found in the old quarter. There is a great range of Hotels in the Hanoi Old quarter . Whether you are looking for a budget Guest House, a stylish boutique hotel or a luxury 5-star hotel – the Old quarter has plenty to offer. There are so many luxury hotels to choose from in Hanoi we have a dedicated guide to the best 5-star hotels in Hanoi . 

  • Top Pick budget hotel in Hanoi: Golden Time 3 Hostel (Find Golden Time on Agoda & Golden Time on booking.com )
  • Best mid-range hotel in Hanoi: Royal Holiday Hanoi (Find the Royal Holiday on Agoda & the Royal Holiday on Booking.com )
  • Top pick luxury hotel in Hanoi: The Capella Hanoi (Find the Capella on Agoda & the Capella on booking.com )

3 Places to stay in Sapa

mountain queen Sapa hotel

If you are planning to visit Sapa you may well need a place to stay in the town before you start trekking. We have a dedicated article to the best hotels in Sapa town . Sapa is also an amazing place to stay in a luxurious 5-star hotel, we also have a guide on the best 5-star hotels in Sapa . And if you are visiting Sapa we highly recommend that you stay in one of the incredible authentic homestays around Sapa . This is an amazing way to experience Vietnamese mountain culture and food. 

  • Top Pick budget hotel in Sapa: Sapa Capsule hostel (Find Sapa Capsule on Agoda & Sapa Capsule on booking.com )
  • Best mid-range hotel in Sapa: Sapa Mountain Queen House (Find the Sapa Mountain Queen on Agoda & The Sapa Mountain Queen on booking.com )
  • Top pick luxury hotel in Sapa: The Laxsik Ecolodge (Find the Laxsik Ecolodge on Agoda & Laxsik Ecolodge on booking.com )

What is the best time of year to visit Vietnam?

Sunset mi's homestay cat cat village

Although Vietnam is a tropical country that doesn’t have distinct Seasons. The best months to visit Vietnam are March and April. The temperatures in March and April are lower on average and there is less rainfall. If you visit Vietnam between May and September the weather is hot and dry. If you visit Vietnam between November and February the temperature is lower and there is more rainfall. Watch out for monsoons and flooding in the winter months. This can affect travel in Vietnam, and very severe pacific storms can be dangerous. 

Vietnam is more than 1000 miles in length from north to south. The average temperatures and climate varies massively across the country. If you are planning to visit the north of Vietnam, especially mountain areas like Sapa, be aware that it can actually be quite cold in the winter months between September and February. We recommend bringing some additional warm layers, especially if you are planning to stay in a homestay or go trekking. 

What are prices like in Vietnam? 

Ben Thanh market ho chi minh

Vietnam is a relatively cheap country. In fact, Vietnam is one of the cheapest countries in Southeast Asia. 

Food in Vietnam is very cheap and readily available. Street food can be found all around towns, cities and villages in Vietnam. Expect to pay around 30,000 – 20,000VND for local food (noodles, banh Mi or BBQ food). This is roughly ÂŁ1 – ÂŁ2 or $1.20 – $2.50. 

Fresh spring rolls Hanoi food tour

Hotels and guest houses are also very cheap in Vietnam. You can find dorm beds for around ÂŁ5 or $7. Private rooms typically start at around ÂŁ10 or $12. And even at this price the quality is very reasonable. Cheap rooms in Vietnam generally include air conditioning and an ensuite bathroom with hot water. Luxury 5-star hotels normally start at around ÂŁ50 or $70 per night. It is amazing what you can get for your money at the luxury end of the budget range. 

Local bus Hanoi vietnam

Transport in Vietnam is also very cheap. all of the big cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh have a local bus network. It can be a little bit challenging and intimidating to use the local transport system – but locals are very helpful so this can be a lot of fun. If you are using a local city bus expect to pay around ÂŁ0.50 or $0.70. There are also plenty of taxis in Vietnam. Use a taxi app (we will share more about getting taxis soon). Expect to pay around 30,000VND – 150,000VND for most short taxi journeys in Vietnam. It is very cheap to travel around Vietnam. you can travel across the length of the country for around $50 – $100. Short inter city journeys by bus in Vietnam generally cost as little as $10 – $15. 

What is Wi-Fi like in Vietnam? 

wifi vietnam

In Vietnam many places offer free Wi-Fi, especially in cafes, coffee shops and restaurants.  Most hotels, guest houses and homestays offer free Wi-Fi. It is worth being aware that although Wi-Fi is often available the network may be slow or weak. If you are planning to travel into more rural areas such as the mountains of the north or two remote islands you may struggle to find any Wi-Fi connections. Therefore we recommend sorting out all of your online business before you go. If you are using data on a local SIM card you may find that the signal is weak or non-existent in more rural areas. This is the perfect chance to disconnect from tech and reconnect with nature! 

Is Vietnam a good country for family Travel?

hanoi kids backpacking family

Vietnam is a great country for family Travel. The Vietnamese people are very welcoming towards families and children. There are loads of amazing things to do in Vietnam with kids . Most attractions and transport offer reduced price for kids or FREE entry. We also found the food in Vietnam was child-friendly. Typically street food is not too spicy and there are often options which are great for kids. However, if you’re traveling with a baby it is worth being aware that baby changing facilities are rare in Vietnam. The best place to find baby changing facilities is in large malls or supermarkets.

Small convenience store Vietnam

You can often buy supplies like snacks, baby milk and nappies from small convenience stores. However, if you’re traveling into more rural areas we recommend taking plenty of supplies with you. 

What things should you pack to visit Vietnam?

Sapa rice paddies and mountains

Hopefully our Vietnam travel tips have been helpful. Here is a packing list for Vietnam. 

  • A dry sack for valuables
  • Clothes, toiletries and some wet wipes or tissues
  • Swimming kit and a travel towel
  • Suncream (SPF50+)
  • Mosquito repellent (DEET)
  • Loose light fitting clothing 
  • Sandals of Flip flops
  • Trainers or trekking shoes
  • Phone, valuables, cameras, chargers, travel documents
  • Travel adaptor plug  (plug type A,C and F)
  • Water bottle
  • A small torch (especially useful for trekking & homestays)
  • A warm layer or two, very useful if you are visiting the mountains of the North or taking a train or bus 
  • A waterproof layer
  • Consider a travel first aid kit (especially if you’re going rural)
  • Consider a small travel umbrella – protection from sun and rain

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Life loving, adventure chasing, Mum of 3 who loves travel. Over 10 years of travel writing experience. Emma now loves to give the best tips to help other travel loving parents plan adventures with their kids. Whether you need to find the best accommodation or just need to know how to pack your bag Emma is that travelling mum who love to help you.

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VickyFlipFlopTravels

50+ Essential Vietnam Travel Tips You NEED Before You Go

I decided to sweat it out on a beach on the island of Phu Quoc to pass on my top Vietnam Travel Tips, via video.

My travel tips for Vietnam haven’t come lightly though. I’ve spent over six weeks there, have written 15 posts on this blog, and right now Google deems my two-week Vietnam itinerary so good I’m at number one if you search ‘two-weeks in Vietnam’ or similar. I’m also pretty high for my post on things to do in Vietnam – thanks to the bloggers I’ve featured.

So yeah, I like to think I know Vietnam, as much as you can after cycling through it from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City , and visiting twice.

I’ve had a think about everything you need to know before you travel Vietnam and it’s all here, with links to some of my other Vietnam advice from the last three years too. Honestly? One of my favourite countries.

Let’s do this…

My Vietnam Travel Tips

(Just hover over the bar and move the player to get to where you want to go)

  • Airports (0:32)
  • Money (1:37)
  • Costs (2:07, bit more at 14:20)
  • Hotels (2:45)
  • Traffic (3:10)
  • Overnight Trains (3:48)
  • Mopeds (4:06)
  • People (4:49)
  • Westerners (6:00)
  • Women (6:34)
  • Family Life (7:28)
  • Karaoke (7:56)
  • Language (8:35)
  • Tourism (9:44)
  • Food (10:23)
  • Booze (11:54)
  • Shopping (12:47)
  • Beauty (13:26)
  • Where to Go (14:57)
  • Wi-Fi (17:00)

Vietnam travel tips: airports

1. Sort your visa before you arrive for the quickest exit. You can spend 15 days in Vietnam visa free if you’re from the UK, any longer and you need to get a visa.

READ MORE VIETNAM ADVICE

Click here to read all my advice on travelling to Vietnam . I’ve got over 30 posts, so you’ll be well prepared! 

Interesting Facts About Vietnam to Know Before You Go

2. Make sure to use a Mia Linh or Vinasun taxi when you exit the airport. They’re the most recommended and they’re reliable. You can just hail them off the street – anyone who does it for you will charge.

3. If you’re coming into Hanoi, a taxi will be about 300,000 Dong into the Old Quarter and will take 45 minutes. It’ll probably feel like a really long way.

4. Coming into Ho Chi Minh City? It’ll be about 150,000 and 15 minutes to Pham Ngu Lao – the main backpacker area.

5. I found getting in and out of the airports I used – Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Phu Quoc – very easy. Arriving two hours before was fine.

Vietnam travel tips: money

6. You need to get to know the colours and value of the notes
 money in Vietnam comes in thousands . Right now it’s about 40,000 dong to the pound, meaning you’re a millionaire with just ÂŁ40. This is VERY confusing when it comes to paying and working out which notes to hand over.

7. Vietnam can be SO cheap, but of course you’re trading off time and comfort for that. How much you’re willing to sacrifice totally depends where you are in your travel life.

8. If the price you’re given, for anything, isn’t written down then it’s negotiable. Get your haggle on!

Accommodation in Vietnam

9. You can get hostel beds in the cities for around $5 – I can’t vouch for how good they are seeing as I’ve stayed in hotels, where a room starts at $13. Time to treat yourself right?

Vietnam advice

10. There are some incredible hotels in Vietnam – if you’re willing and able to spend ÂŁ20 each a night, if there are two of you, your can live it up! Check out this post on some of the most unique places to stay in Vietnam to suit your budget. 

11. If it’s important to you, make sure to check your hotel has a lift. Most of the places I stayed in didn’t. Cue me wheezing as I climbed up six flights of stairs with my 20kg bag.    

Travelling Vietnam advice

12. One of the first things you’ll notice in travelling Vietnam is that the traffic is crazy, it’s tough to cross the road. In the cities you just need to go and trust that the motorbikes will go around you. Practice will give you confidence.

Vietnam advice

13. Overnight trains run up and down the country and they’re a fun way to get around. I’d definitely recommend you give one a try but please make sure you take your own pillow case. I was horrified to see that they don’t change them in between people – after I’d slept there for 12 hours, with a terrible cold.

Sorry next person .

READ MORE VIETNAM ADVICE

‘Sleeping’ on the Overnight Trains in Vietnam

14. Seems like everyone in Vietnam has a motorbike and you can rent one too. Personally I wouldn’t recommend them in the cities, but Hoi An would be fun and if you go to Phu Quoc you definitely should. So much fun.

15. The roads in Vietnam are crazy with cows and all sorts. Don’t be surprised if you have to divert round an ox as you try to get from A to B.

Vietnamese people (travel tips )

16. I’ve seen a few comments on blogs and sites about ‘scammy’ Vietnamese people and I absolutely wholeheartedly disagree . In my experience, everyone I met was so friendly. I’ve just done a two-week cycle ride with Intrepid through the Vietnamese countryside and people would come out with their children to say hi to us, absolutely no strings attached.

vietnam advice

17. Generally, Vietnamese people are much smaller than Westerners, in fact they’re the smallest in South East Asia. So don’t be offended if you hear people refer to ‘Western size’.

“Average height of Vietnamese people aged 22-26 is 1.642 meters in men and 1.534 in women” – Prof. Dr Nguyen Cong Khan , head of the Science, Technology and Training Department under the Health Ministry. “The average man in England is 5ft 9in (175.3cm) tall and the average woman is 5ft 3in tall (161.6cm).” – BBC News

16. Women do it all in Vietnam. Apparently it’s starting to change but you’ll see the women carrying, caring, cleaning and working. Life as a woman in Vietnam is very hard and they die much earlier than men. As one male tour leader told us, ‘from exhaustion’. This is all down to a Chinese teacher and philosopher called Confucius . Read up on him if you want to know more, but from what I’ve heard he’s a sexist, psychotic, megalomaniac.

17. Different generations of families all live together as standard. The youngest son is expected to stay with his family, bringing his wife and kids into the home, while the oldest one would traditionally go and serve the country.

18. Vietnamese people love karaoke. Love it . Even in the deepest countryside you’ll find karaoke places. In Ho Chi Minh City in particular I saw older guys with their own karaoke machines going up and down the street singing at the top of their lungs, totally tunelessly without a care as to whether anyone was enjoying it or not.

19. Women wear twinsets pyjamas by day. I’m not entirely sure they are pyjamas but that’s the best way to describe them. Very matchy matchy, they look super comfy.

Vietnamese travel tips: language 

20. You’re going to have to get your best pointing finger out because English is not widely understood here. I mean, you’ll get by, don’t worry, but don’t expect any long D&Ms. Our Intrepid tour leader was awesome and I learnt a lot about Vietnam from him, but I didn’t really meet anyone else to talk to.

So, if you want my Vietnam advice, I’d say you need to learn some Vietnamese.

21. Vietnamese language is all about the intonation – the same written word without all the accents could mean a number of things which can get confusing.

22. The longest word is only 5 letters long, except for Nguyen – half of the Vietnamese population have this as a surname.

23. How to say ‘thank you’ – ‘cam on’ (like cam as in Camembert and on as in on, watch the video above to avoid making a mistake!)

24. How to say ‘hello’ – ‘Xin Chao’ (said like zin chow).

25. Oh and ‘yum yum’ means ‘I’m horny’, so I was told. Be careful.

Tourism in Vietnam 

26. Tourism is the big business in Vietnam, and it’s only getting bigger. So go now . Tourism in January 2017 is up 23.6% on January 2016. That’s crazy! There are big plans by the government to get Vietnam up in the leagues of Thailand. In 2016 there were 10 million tourists to Vietnam, while Thailand had 32.6 million – still a way to go, but with all the development, it’ll happen.

27. Given the positioning and length of Vietnam, there’s a lot of coastline to explore. And other countries are interested in having some presence there too. Vietnam’s coastline is being redeveloped with loans coming in from all over the place – mainly Russia. When it comes to booking try and choose Vietnamese places to keep the money with the locals.

READ MORE: Where to Go in Vietnam

28. Wi-Fi is everywhere in Vietnam. On my Intrepid Cycle Vietnam trip I’d be in the middle of nowhere and there’d be a connection from a local garage or house that’d left it open. The cities have public connection too â€“ strong enough for your Facebook and Instagram updates.  

Food and drink in Vietnam

29. Banh mi and pho are the most popular dishes for tourists visiting Vietnam, but check out my article on the top things to eat in Vietnam to widen your palate. Save the article to your phone so you have it ready for action.

30. Do a street food tour in either Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to experience more of the Vietnamese foody repertoire. Do it at the start of your trip so you have more time to go back to the places you liked the best. Get your money’s worth!

Vietnam advice

31. It’s rice for breakfast, lunch and dinner in Vietnam. Speaking of breakfast, if there’s ever a Western option I’d recommend you avoid it. It won’t be the croissant and delicious muesli you dream of, guaranteed. Go East, it’s what you’re there for.

32. Some of my favourites Vietnamese foods for you to try:

  • Try Bao Xeo – shrimp and beansprouts wrapped in a pancake.
  • Fresh spring rolls – shrimp and veggies wrapped in rice paper
  • BBQ – choose your meats and cook them in front of you, or ask the waitress to do it ,
  • Egg coffee – coffee, with egg…
  • Claypots, we’d call them stews or curries

– it’s all DELICIOUS .

33. You can get a glass of beer for 5,000 VND in Vietnam, that’s about 20p . You need to look out for the signs for ‘bia hoi’. This is their fresh beer that’s brewed that day and needs to be used that day too. It’s good stuff!

If you prefer to drink out of bottles than kegs you’re looking at around 20,000 VND, still less than a ÂŁ1 for a Hanoi or Saigon beer.

34. Every region has its own fare to try so if in doubt when you’re in a restaurant, ask what the local dish is and go for that.

35. Wine is horrible in Vietnam. Well, the Dalat wine I tried was. Undrinkable. Stick to beer. Or it’s super sugary questionable cocktails for you.

36. Don’t drink out the taps. A 500ml water is 6,000 Dong in the shops, around 21p, and 10,000 if you take it from your mini bar. Try and drink the bigger 1.5 litre bottles to save money and on plastic waste.

37. I didn’t use any public toilets, but I did just walk into hotels I wasn’t staying at and use theirs. No one minded. Sometimes toilets will be long drops but most of them now are Western style.

Shopping and spending in Vietnam 

38. There are cash machines everywhere and if you’re sticking to the main cities you’ll have no problem. They charge around 30,000 Dong to withdraw from (ÂŁ1) plus your bank fees.

39. You can get a pair of ‘Nikes’ for 200,000 (ÂŁ7) sports branded bags for 100,000 (ÂŁ3.50) and tailor made shirts for 300,000 (ÂŁ10.62). If you want to know the best souvenirs to buy in Vietnam, click here.

40. In Hoi An you can get shoes, suits and other clothes tailor made. Check out my post on my blog on how much I spent in Hoi An (coming) to find out what I paid. If you have a particular pair of trousers, or any item of clothing, you really like, you can take it along and they’ll replicate it.

41. Beauty treatments are so cheap in the cities. I paid 200,000 (ÂŁ7) for an 80-minute hot stone massage, 180,000 (ÂŁ6.37) for a shellac, and 50,000 (ÂŁ1.77) for a pedicure. Go nuts!

42. You can get your laundry done in Ho Chi Minh City for 10,000 a kg (35p).

43. Most historical and cultural attractions are either free or around 40,000 (ÂŁ1.42) to get in.

Where to go in Vietnam advice

44. Wait till you get to Vietnam to book your tours and excursions, you’ll get them a lot cheaper.

45. There are a few sides to Vietnam I’d love you to include in your itinerary – beach, city and countryside. Make sure you get all three in yeah?

Vietnam advice

46. There’s so much diversity in the locations in Vietnam. Here’s a super quick run down of what each place has to offer…

Hanoi is an old city, Ho Chi Minh is new. Hue has a huge palace, Hoi An a strong influence from the French and some would say too touristy, I say lovely.  Phu Quoc is where the Vietnamese go on holiday, Mui Ne where the kite surfers go. Nha Trang is another holiday place, popular for its mud baths while Qui Nhon is super modern. Sapa is for hikers, Halong Bay to sail and Mai Chau  for the home stays.

Here are the top Vietnam landmarks to include in your trip.

Check out my two-week Vietnam itinerary on my blog to find out more, or just ask me in the comments below – always happy to help!

Where to go in Vietnam Advice

Check the prices for your Vietnam buses , trains, flights and ferries here… 

Pin these Vietnam travel tips for later

Vietnam Travel Tips

More blog posts on Vietnam

If these Vietnam travel tips haven’t quite quenched your thirst for knowledge, or answered your questions, then check out some of my other posts on Vietnam here…

  • Where to Go in Vietnam
  • Two-Week Itinerary for Vietnam
  • Halong Bay: The Most Beautiful Place in the World?
  • Best Things to Do in Vietnam According to 11 Travel Bloggers
  • My Friend is Not a Sex Tourist
  • What Vietnam Was Like, For Me
  • Ever Drank Weasel Poo Coffee?
  • ‘Sleeping’ on the Overnight Trains in Vietnam
  • Visiting the Egg Mud Baths in Nha Trang
  • 9 of the Most Beautiful Beaches in Vietnam for Sunbathing
  • The Craziest Things I Saw in Hanoi

Vietnam Travel Tips

Related Posts:

  • My Tips for Travelling Vietnam Solo
  • The Ultimate Vietnamese Adventure: Hiring a Motorbike
  • Unique Places to Stay in Vietnam
  • 9 Most Beautiful & Best Beaches in Vietnam for Sunbathing
  • 12 Interesting Facts About Vietnam to Know Before You Go

Hi, I'm Vicky! I wrote this. You can find me on all the social media @VickyFlipFlop. I love a bit of adventure, will try anything once, and have a strong passion for the local food and drink, whatever it may be. I'm here to help inspire you to travel to places a little out of your comfort zone, or at least to explore the usual destinations in a different way. Stay, have a look around, and if you have any questions – let me know below.

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16 Vietnam Travel Tips You Need to Know

Planning is an essential part of any trip, and just like elsewhere, there are certain things you need to know before visiting Vietnam – especially if you’re a first time visitor. While you won’t have too much to worry about in Vietnam, it’s always best to know what you’re getting yourself into before arriving at a new destination. To help you plan the perfect trip, here are my top 16 Vietnam travel tips so that you can spend less time stressing and more time enjoying this fascinating country!

Vietnam travel tips: Haggling for handmade lanterns is standard practice in hoi an, Vietnam.

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Table of Contents

Top Vietnam Travel Tips: What You Need to Know Before Visiting Vietnam

1. consider travel insurance.

Although Vietnam is a relatively safe country to visit, it’s important to be prepared for unforeseen circumstances. And that doesn’t just include petty theft. Food poisoning, getting injured during an adventure activity, losing your valuables, or even missing a flight are just some of the things that can really ruin your Vietnam trip.

So my first travel tip for Vietnam is to consider travel insurance for your trip. World Nomads  offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world.

2. Choose the right season to visit

Vietnam is a massive country spanning more than 1600 km from north to south. While the weather in Vietnam might not be at the top of your worry list, choosing the best time to visit Vietnam is an important part of planning the perfect trip. 

The country has a tropical monsoon climate with high humidity throughout the year and rather unpredictable weather, including everything from typhoons to frequent downpours to relentless heat. Added to that, the temperature can vary drastically depending on where and when you visit. 

With that said, though, if you are planning to see a bit of everything, the best time to visit Vietnam is either in spring (March – April) or autumn (September – December) . During these months, expect pleasant temperatures throughout most of the country.

woman walking through rice fields in sapa, Vietnam

3. Don’t forget your visa

Most nationalities need a visa to enter Vietnam, except for several European passport holders, such as citizens from the UK, France, and Germany. If you’re from one of these countries, consider yourself lucky, because you can enter Vietnam 15 days visa-free.

For the rest, chances are high you’ll need to apply for a visa beforehand. While some countries’ citizens can apply for a visa online (read more about it here or use iVisa to sort everything for you), South Africans need to apply in person at the nearest Vietnam embassy. It’s definitely a bit of a mission, but the effort will be worth it – especially since you’ll get to experience one of the most beautiful places in Asia!

4. Know how to get in and out 

As already mentioned, Vietnam is a huge country packed with loads of beautiful places to go , ancient landmarks to explore , and amazing things to do. Choosing where to arrive and depart is, therefore, another important Vietnam travel tip to keep in mind.

Three main international airports serve Vietnam: Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang International Airport. If you’re planning to see a bit of everything, the easiest would be to arrive in the south and depart in the north (or vice versa). Search and compare flights here on Skyscanner .

No matter where you arrive, it’s straightforward to get from any of these airports to the city center. Buses and taxis are readily available and very affordable. Don’t feel like planning a thing? Grab a private transfer here: 

  • Noi Bai Airport to Hanoi City/Halong Bay
  • Tan Son Nhat International Airport to HCMC  
  • Da Nang International Airport to Hoi An/ Hue or Da Nang  

5. Know how to get around efficiently

Vietnam is one of the cheapest countries to visit in Asia and getting around is super easy and affordable. As a result, it’s a great destination for budget travelers and backpackers. With everything from trains to buses, Vietnam has a vast and efficient transport network that can literally connect you to all its corners. 

Some of the best long-distance travel options include sleeper buses and overnight trains . These are especially ideal for travelers who want to cover large areas of land at dirt cheap prices. 12Go Asia is a great source to find and book tickets for  buses ,  trains and transfers . While you’ll undoubtedly be saving money, you should know that traveling by train or bus is not for everyone. Journeys are long, and it’s not exactly the most sanitary way of traveling. 

If that’s not for you, flying is your best bet. Vietjet is the country’s top low-cost carrier, and local flights are cheap and plentiful. 

halong bay boat cruises. knowing how to get around is probably the most important travel tip for Vietnam.

6. Opt to use Grab Taxi 

Most cities in Vietnam are surprisingly walkable, but it’s always good to know you have other options when you are too tired to walk. (By the way, looking for cute and comfy travel sneakers? Check out my guide on travel sneakers for women ). 

Among the many ways to get around in the cities include taxis, local buses, bicycle rickshaws, and even motorbike taxis. Oh and travel tip – the latter might seem like a fun ride, but it’s not for the faint-hearted! 

All of the above options are generally quite cheap. But remember to agree on a fixed price with the driver beforehand. Vietnam’s taxi drivers are notorious for ripping off tourists!

The easiest way to avoid this unpleasantry is to use Grab Taxi instead. Grab is a popular ride share service, similar to Uber, where you book a ride using their app. The best part? You’ll know exactly how much your ride will cost and how long it will take to reach your destination.

7. Get a local Sim card

Whether you’re planning a 5-day Vietnam itinerary or staying a bit longer, getting a local SIM card or pocket wifi is highly encouraged (especially if you are a first-time visitor to Vietnam). 

Even though most hotels and posher eateries are likely to have free (and super fast) wifi, having access to all your favorite travel apps like Google Maps, Google Translate, and Grab Taxi 24/7 can help avoid unnecessary stress.  

The easiest way to stay connected on your trip is to grab a SIM card right upon arrival. You can book one online  here  or head straight to one of the various vendors on site. Alternatively, have one delivered directly to your hotel to save the hassle: 

  • 4G SIM card delivered straight to your hotel in Hanoi
  • 4G SIM delivered directly to your hotel in HCMC

8. Be aware of scams

One of the most important travel tips for Vietnam to know about is scams. Scams are plentiful in Vietnam and even more so in touristy spots like HCMC and Hanoi. I hate being ripped off, as I’m sure you do too. The easiest way to avoid feeling salty is not to let it happen. While that is probably easier said than done, especially when traveling in unfamiliar territory, the good news is that it’s possible!

The first Vietnam tip you need to know about is to try and book your tours or trips through a reputable website beforehand. I personally love Klook and book most of my tours through them. They have tons of options at reasonable prices. Plus, the reviews really help make choosing the perfect tour so much easier. 

woman weaving a basket at local Vietnamese market

Of course, booking activities through a local tour operator is also possible. In fact, you’ll be hard-pressed to turn a corner in any of Vietnam’s tourist hubs without spotting several of these companies! If you must use one of these services, then you’re definitely going to need my second most important Vietnam travel tip for booking tours. Shop around before committing to anything , because prices vary greatly from one operator to another. 

Most tour operators in Vietnam will gladly spend hours explaining different packages, tours, and trips. Don’t feel intimated or obliged to book a tour right then and there. Instead, thank them for their time and tell them you’ll think about it. Then move on to the next tour operator. After a visit to several different sites, you’ll have a good idea of which company offers the best package at the best price for your needs.  

9. Learn a few key Vietnamese phrases

The official language in Vietnam is Vietnamese, but English is widely spoken in more touristy places. While it’s unlikely that you’ll have any trouble with language barriers in the bigger cities, it’s always a good idea to know the basics. Here are a few key phrases that will make your trip a whole lot more enjoyable and perhaps even impress a few locals: 

Hello  â€“ Xin chĂ o

Goodbye  â€“ TáșĄm biệt

Thank you  â€“ CĂĄm ÆĄn

Sorry  – Xin Loi 

Please – LĂ m ÆĄn

No  – KhĂŽng

How much is it? –  CĂĄi nĂ y giĂĄ bao nhiĂȘu?

Please help me – LĂ m ÆĄn giĂșp tĂŽi

Where is the bathroom? – NhĂ  vệ sinh ở đñu?

10. Carry enough cash with you

In general, cash is king in Vietnam, so make sure you carry enough cash with you, especially if you’re visiting markets or low-key eateries. Most hotels, tour operators, and fancier restaurants do, however, accept debit or credit cards, but remember service fees may apply,

If you run out of cash, you won’t have too much trouble finding an ATM. But not all banks accept foreign cards, so it’s best to try one of the bigger branches like HSBC and Citi Bank that accepts Visa or Mastercard. Also, keep in mind, it’s best to withdraw AND exchange money right at the airport, where you’ll get the cheapest rates. If you must use a local ATM, try to withdraw large sums at once to avoid hefty bank charges. The withdrawal limit typically ranges between 2,000,000 to 3,000,000 VND, with fees ranging from 22,000 to 99,000 VND. 

Just make sure your hotel room has a safe where you can keep your money locked up because you really shouldn’t be walking around with large sums of cash in Vietnam!

market vendor displaying his catch of the day. Vietnam travel tip - be wary of buying fresh meat and fish at local markets.

11. Learn to haggle (really fast)

If you’re visiting Vietnam for the first time, then you’re in for a real treat. Everything is dirt cheap, and haggling is standard practice at markets and hole-in-the-wall stores. 

With that said, though, you should know that prices (for tourists) are generally hugely inflated, and the only way to get a lower price is to haggle! Don’t be afraid to ask around first to get a good idea of the bargaining range. Decide on a price you’d like to pay and stick to it no matter what. 

If you’re not American like me, then another thing you’ll need to get used to very quickly is converting currencies! Most vendors only give prices in USD, so best to figure out the conversion rate before you make a trip to the market.  

It’s also a good idea not to flaunt any flashy belongings like watches, designer bags, and your fav pro camera because those also play a part in the initial price you’ll get. Another tip to know is, don’t shop near the entrance of a market. These stores are famous for asking steeper prices!

12. You don’t need to tip

Like elsewhere in Southeast Asia, tipping is not really a thing in Vietnam. So whether you’re dining at  Hanoi’s best restaurants  or grabbing some sidewalk grub in Ho Chih Min City, leaving a tip is generally not required. However, if you decide to splurge on a fancy dinner or pop into a swanky eatery, expect a 10% service fee already worked in on your bill. 

As for hotel porters and tour guides, be prepared for the death stares if you do not give them a tip! It doesn’t need to be much, but it is the norm here. So, remember to keep some small change (ideally US dollars) handy.

13. Don’t drink the tap water 

Another big mistake to avoid in Vietnam is drinking the tap water. The tap water in Vietnam is not safe to drink , and you’re almost guaranteed to get sick!

To avoid ruining your entire trip, rather buy bottled water. A 1.5 liter of bottled water costs less than a dollar and can be bought practically everywhere – from convenience stores to local restaurants to even your hotel. 

If you’re visiting Vietnam on a budget, another option is to invest in a good reusable water bottle that you can refill at your hotel’s water fountain.

Vietnam travel tips. vendor sitting under the shade in hoi an, Vietnam

14. Pack the right clothes

Knowing what to pack for a Vietnam trip is another important thing you need to know before visiting Vietnam. 

Since the humidity is quite intense in Vietnam, it’s best to pack lightweight, breathable clothes made of linen or cotton that won’t leave you sweaty or weigh you down. 

Unless you’re visiting during winter (mid-December – March), there’s really no need to pack a ton of warm clothing. Instead, opt for shorts, skirts, your favorite t’s, and summery dresses. With that said, it’s still a good idea to bring along one or two lightweight jackets, jeans, and long-sleeved shirts for the odd chilly day or if you intend to go hiking. No matter when you visit, though, don’t forget your raincoat! 

Also, if you’re going to visit Vietnam’s incredible religious sites, remember to to pack accordingly. A simple sarong will do in most cases, but just make sure that you can cover your knees and shoulders.

15. Don’t forget to bring bug spray and sunscreen

Although you won’t have to worry about malaria in the major tourist areas of Vietnam, dengue fever and the Zika virus aren’t uncommon. Make sure to protect yourself from any bites by packing a good mosquito repellant like this . 

Sunscreen is another essential item to pack when traveling in Vietnam. While you won’t have too much trouble finding sunscreen at a local grocery store or even in a convenience store, it’s important to know that most sunscreen brands in Asia contain whitening agents that can change your skin color. Make sure to bring your favorite brand along for a worry-free trip. If you’re a conscientious traveler, this reef-safe Banana Boat sunscreen spray is your best bet.

16. You might need a travel adapter

The standard voltage in Vietnam is 220V with a frequency of 50Hz, and the typical plug types are A (2 vertical pins), C (2 round pins), and F (Schuko plug ).

While these plug types are pretty standard in most countries, it’s important to check the voltage compatibility before trying to plug your device into a socket in Vietnam. If your device runs at a different voltage, it’s best to invest in a good travel adapter. This travel plug works in 150 countries and has four USB sockets, so you never have to worry about keeping your devices juiced up. 

There you have it – all my top travel tips for Vietnam! If you think I’ve omitted any must-know Vietnam travel tips, let me know in the comments below to keep this post updated! 

If you found these travel tips for Vietnam handy, please pin this post to your favorite board!

Make the most of your Vietnam adventure with these essential Vietnam tips! This guide is jam-packed with absolutely everything you need to plan the perfect trip to Vietnam. Vietnam travel tips | things to know before visiting Vietnam | Vietnam travel guide

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October 27, 2021 at

hi, I really appreciated this information about Vietnam. My husband and I will plan to trip there. Let me know more information about Vietnam tourist

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November 5, 2021 at

Great to hear that! Feel free to check out my other Vietnam posts for more ideas on what not to miss.

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May 21, 2023 at

Thank you so much. So practical and well explained. Mush appreciated. Thank you

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August 6, 2023 at

we are going to Vietnam and Cambodia in February 2024. Really looking forward to it. we are aged 68 and 72, and reasonably mobile. we are doing an 18 day tour. So any advice anyone can give us will be greatly appreciated

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August 9, 2023 at

Thanks, this will be very helpful

Looking forward to our trip,

To be forewarned is to be forearmed.

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  • Vietnam Tips And Tricks: 26 Key Things To Know Before Your Trip

vietnam travel tips things to know before traveling vietnam rice fields terraced

This list of useful Vietnam tips and tricks is mostly for first-time visitors, but it can help anyone achieve a safe and worry-free travel. These are the 26 things to know about Vietnam before your trip!

I had a blast touring Vietnam . I fell in love with the hearty people, the vibrant culture, and the amazing diversity of landscapes. And I want you to have the same rewarding travel experience.

But I’m not gonna lie: it is a tricky country to explore. The neighbour Thailand or the ultra modern Japan are a breeze compared to Vietnam which has less tourism infrastructure and ways of getting around.

Tour scams are common, pollution can be disappointing, and the fact is an extremely poor country makes many look at you with dollar signs on their eyes.

That’s why I’ve compiled a list of everything I wish I had known before visiting Vietnam for a safe and scam-free trip to prepare you to one of the most amazing countries on Earth!

travel vietnam tips things to know ninh binh

Useful Things To Know Before Vietnam – TLDR

  • 1. Sort out your VISA.
  • 2. Don’t underestimate the size of the country.
  • 3. Be smart about your itinerary.
  • 4. Weather varies a lot.
  • 5. Get ready to haggle.
  • 6. Hanoi is quainter than you think.
  • 7. People are lovely…
  • 8. Beaches are not.
  • 9. Everyone’s a millionaire.
  • 10. Dress appropriately.
  • 11. It’s a paradise for foodies.
  • 12. Use tours as plan B.
  • 13. Or at least do your homework.
  • 14. Ho Chi Minh City is the place to be and be seen.
  • 15. The traffic is really hectic.
  • 16. WiFi is great!
  • 17. Be careful with your card.
  • 18. It’s freaking cheap.
  • 19. Phu Quoc is overrated

  • 20. While Ninh Binh is underrated.
  • 21. Avoid tap water!
  • 22. Learn how to get around efficiently.
  • 23. Take care of your belongings.
  • 24. It’s worth to splurge on a Halong Bay cruise.
  • 25. Some basic words of Vietnamese can go a long way.
  • 26. Go for the street food!

Let’s go into more details below.

1 Sort out your VISA.

First things first. It’s astonishing the amount of people who land in Vietnam with no idea what they need to do for their VISA. I agree it can be a daunting and confusing process, but don’t overlook this.

Fortunately there are many companies that do this for you online for a small fee. I used Vietnam Visa Pro – overlook the crappy design, it’s legit.

Upon arrival, triple check all of your documentation and make sure you bring the visa-on-arrival pre-approval papers, photos and cash with you. EUR and USD will do (although with ridiculous conversion rates).

1 Fill out visa options and contact information. 2 Pay. 3 Get the approval letter on your email. It takes 1-2 working days (it’s a weird list of random people who were granted entering Vietnam at the same time you did. Personal information shared with strangers yay!). 4 Make sure you pack the pre-approval letter, 2 photos, passport, the entry/exit form and cash. 5 Handle it all over to the officers when you land. Smile.

2 Don’t underestimate the size of the country.

I didn’t realize how massive and spread out Vietnam is until you search for directions on Google Maps. To give you an idea, a train ride between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City is 1700+km-long and takes roughly 35 (!) hours.

Getting from A to B always take longer than you expect in Asia and this is specially true in Vietnam. So plan accordingly and make sure you don’t bite more than you can chew.

Which leads me to my next point.

3 Be smart about your itinerary.

vietnam travel tips and things to know rice fields terraced

A common rookie mistake is forcing everything and the kitchen sink on your Vietnam travel itinerary. If you want to go full North to South, allow at least 3 weeks. Any less and you’ll be rushing and/or forcing you to take flights, taking away a bit of the experience.

I went further and decided to skip the entire Central part during my 3-week stay. The region is prone to flooding when I went (late November) which helped making the decision.

Overall Vietnam can be divided into 3 main regions – North, Central and South – and as a rule of thumb I would say you’ll need a week for each at the very least.

4 Weather varies a lot.

In general, Vietnam is humid and hot.

However, with such an elongated country, it’s only natural the weather changes significantly. And when I say significantly, I mean dramatically . 3 entirely different weather regions. It can be snowing in Sapa and a blazing hot sunny day down in Phu Quoc .

  • Northern Vietnam : expect hot wet summers and cool dry winters up North. It can get quite cold here during northern hemisphere winter – from September to November – particularly next to the border with China .
  • Central Vietnam : experiences hot, dry weather between January & August when temperatures can hit the mid-thirties.
  • Southern Vietnam : boasts a full tropical climate, with only 2 defined seasons – wet and dry. The best time to go is obviously during the latter, from December to April.

Selective Asia has more details on the weather in Vietnam .

5 Get ready to haggle.

Prices of things are very cheap, but expect to pay whatever you can haggle for it. There are no fixed prices. This can be daunting at first, but you’ll eventually get used to it. I know think it’s more fun this way!

The thing is Vietnamese they WILL try to inflate prices. It’s how they have been doing business for centuries. The recent trend of wealthy tourists has just made big markups more evident to the outside world. Best you can do is to be informed and prepared to get a good price.

It’s advisable to hide all items that make you look richer – watches, jewellery, big bank notes – to make your offer more convincing.

Pro tip: come up with a maximum price you’re willing to pay and stick to it. No matter what. Don’t underestimate the value of politely start walking away.

6 Hanoi is quainter than you think.

travel vietnam tips hanoi things to know before traveling vietnam

The artistic, traditional and creative side of Vietnam is more evident in Hanoi , where despite the crazy traffic and busy routines, centuries-old traditions are still alive.

Museums, pagodas and temples pledge a solid set of touristy activities but Hanoi is so much more than that. Despite being a huge city just like Ho Chi Minh City, it has somewhat of a village vibe that is absent in its southern counterpart .

The fascinating maze of streets of the Old Quarter is the ideal place to get lost and shop for local handicrafts in great food or just do a fair bit of people-watching. Make sure you pick a hotel in this area , reminiscent of a time where each street was specialized in one type of item (e.g. silver, chicken, etc). In between explorations, sit down and enjoy a hearty bowl of pho , the national dish.

travelling to vietnam tips

Best hotels in Hanoi

Location is key in Hanoi. Explore this list of places to stay in the Old Quarter, with top reviews, and of course, free WiFi.

travelling to vietnam tips

My choice: O’Gallery Premier Hotel

Superbly decorated hotel in the heart of Hanoi . An escape from the chaotic streets, with fabulous breakfast included.

7 People are lovely…

vietnam travel tips hanoi

Most people visiting get the impression Vietnamese are greedy and shady people trying to get advantage of you at all times. I see this being legit if you stick to the touristy route exclusively. Sadly these travelers only get to know the business side of locals who are simply trying to make a living.

Once you break that local-tourist paradigm and make an effort to communicate with the person in front you, trust me, you’ll see it differently. During my travels I’ve met nice and friendly people from many different places, particularly in Asia . Vietnam takes it to a whole another level of kindness.

We’ve got everything from free food, inspiring life stories and school children thrilled to wave “hello” to us. These people may not have much, but they are still able to gladly share what they have with you.

8 … Beaches are not.

travel vietnam tips phu quoc island beach

Putting it nicely, beaches are not Vietnam ‘s forte .

If you’ve been to the dreamy beaches in Philippines or even to the islands in the neighbour Thailand , you’ll most likely get disappointed. Even the supposedly best beach in Vietnam – Sao Beach in Phu Quoc island – had trash accumulated along 90% of its extension.

But hey, each to its own! And Vietnam is definitely all about indulging in local culture and food and meet inspiring people along the way.

9 Everyone’s a millionaire.

 travel vietnam tips vietnamese dong money advice

Well, not quite.

I’m sure there are many confused souls out there right now trying to work out the ridiculously high conversion of the dong. At the time of writing this article, 1 EUR = 26,200 dong and 1 USD = 22,700 dong. This means 100USD or 100EUR are worth more than 2 million Dong!

The good news is that there are no coins in Vietnam since 2011. The bad news is that bank notes are enough of a headache. It’s easy for a 500,000 Dong note to “pass by” a 50,000 one. Same for the 10,000 and 100,000 Dong ones. The last 0 makes all the difference! Plus the 20,000 and 500,000 have an awfully similar tone of blue. Don’t get fooled!

10 Dress appropriately.

Vietnam is not by any means a conservative country in what it comes to clothing. You don’t need to dress like an Afghan woman and the hot weather does even force some skin to be shown amongst locals. If you want to wear shorts, a shirt and flip-flops, that’s absolutely fine.

The line is drawn when girls wear bikinis and guys walk around with no shirt. When visiting temples and other religious sites, it’s advisable to cover-up as a sign of respect and restrictions may be applied regarding shorts and vest tops.

If you’re unsure what to wear, do as locals do. And if you’re visiting the North during winter time, don’t forget to bring some pieces of warmer clothing!

thailand island hopping

11 It’s a paradise for foodies.

vietnam tips things to know vietnamese food

Lying on a delicate balance of sour, hot snweet and salty perfected over centuries, food in Vietnam is unique. I love the flavors of tamarind, chili peppers and also loads of fresh greens that go in almost every dish.

Not sure because gluttony is now my middle name, but a whopping percentage of my memories of the country are food-related. I personally think it’s an unforgettable cuisine with some flavors I haven’t experienced anywhere else. But nothing like trying it out for yourself!

Note: No, didn’t see dog in the restaurant menu. Can’t be sure I haven’t eaten it though.

Dishes you need to try in Vietnam 🍜

  • 🍜 Pho: the national Vietnamese dish. A hearty noodle & meat soup with fresh herbs eaten primarily at breakfast.
  • 🍜 Bun cha: grilled pork and noodles.
  • 🍜 Gỏi cuốn: my personal favorite. Fresh spring rolls filled with noodles, meat/prawns/crab and greens.
  • 🍜 Cha ca: one of Hanoi’s best, it features white fish sautĂ©ed in butter with dill and spring onions.
  • 🍜 Nem Ran/Cha Gio: preferred in special occasions, this fried spring roll involves different combinations of lean minced pork, sea crabs or unshelled shrimps, edible mushrooms and dried onions.

12 Use tours as a plan B.

vietnam travel tips mekong delta market

You can find all kinds of tours to some of the most popular places in Vietnam such as overnight stay in the Mekong Delta, a convenient Cu Chi Tunnels tour or a romantic cruise in Halong Bay. Heck Vietnam is a giant tour factory!

The catch is: more often than not, they’re terrible experiences and a giant waste of time.

There are endless reports of travelers being treated as cattle, rushing from place to place in cramped vans and stopping by at their friends’ shops and restaurants along the way. If you think about it, once you’ve paid and go for a 1,2 or 3-day long tour, you’re completely dependent on them!

I tend to avoid tours everywhere I go. I much prefer making my own itinerary at my own pace. We actually even learned how to ride a bike in Vietnam to avoid being dependent on day tours – best decision ever!

13 Or at least do your homework.

If you decide to go on a tour, do your homework. Always double check reviews online and mind there are dozens of businesses with the exact same name!

DO NOT book tours through your hotel/hostel as they inflate prices tremendously. Instead ask around other travelers, go to a travel agent or contact directly the company. Ask away all the questions you might have including what I learned to be the most important one: “how many people are going in this tour?”.

Regarding price, tours are subject to haggling just like almost everything in the country. At the same time quality has a price and a few extra bucks in Vietnam can make all the difference. Specially in tours lasting 2 or 3 days it is worth to pay extra for additional comfort or to go with less people.

Apart from an amazing cooking class in Hanoi , I did book some tours from travel agencies myself. Considering all the dramatic stories and reviews I’ve read, I consider myself lucky with the range of experiences I’ve had:

My tours in Vietnam

  • 3-day cruise in Halong Bay , with Cristina Cruises . ★★★★☆. Expensive. We had days debating and researching which company to go with. The promised activities during the day were a bit of hit and miss but generally good fun. Apart from that, weather was a bitch (not their fault, obviously).
  • “Cruise boat” in Phu Quoc . ★☆☆☆☆. Terrible. Overcrowded boat (to the point of feeling unsafe), no respect for corals or marine life.
  • Cu Chi Tunnels tour in Ho Chi Minh City . ★★★☆☆. Mixed feelings. We paid extra for a semi-private tour with a Vietnam war veteran which turned out to be great. Wasn’t a fan of the place though.

14 Ho Chi Minh City is the place to be and be seen.

ho chi minh city saigon vietnam things to know

Apart from being the business and finantial capital of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant place. If you’re looking for an endless shopping scene, an ecletic music and art offer and sophisticated nightlife, well this city has stuff to keep you busy for days. No wonder it is the top choice for expats in Vietnam.

I was particularly impressed by the huge offer in restaurants. There’s a bit of everything here, from the authentic street food stall to the high-end luxury dining. CafĂ©s where you can work a bit while grabbing a coffee are the best I’ve been. Ever.

And not to mention the rooftop bars. Other places in Vietnam also have them, but Ho Chi Minh City is a whole hub of them. The OMG Rooftop has drinks at decent prices and an awesome view over the Ben Thanh Market in the heart of District 1. Stay in this area to be close to everything!

travelling to vietnam tips

Check this list of places to stay in District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City, with top reviews (9 or more), and of course, free WiFi.

travelling to vietnam tips

Charming shack-themed hotel right in the center of District 1, where everything happens in Ho Chi Minh City but tucked away from the noisy traffic. Superb breakfast and host.

15 The traffic is really hectic.

traffic vietnam tips motorcycles bikes .jpg

Are you familiar with those videos with Westerners struggling to cross the road due to the crazy amount of traffic passing by and honking as loud as they can? Yap, that’s a fairly accurate depiction of urban Vietnam .

Check this video of a street crossing I shared on my Facebook page .

Saigon is the city with the largest concentration of motorbikes in the entire world. Traffic in Hanoi is not any better too. Crossroads are not often and I can’t remember seeing any pedestrian lights. It will take some time before you feel comfortable, but it is important not to panic.

The best method to cross a road in Vietnam is to always keep a slow pace all the way. Make yourself predictable on your route and walking speed.

This will give time for drivers to spot you and calculate their next action to go around you. Don’t underestimate them: Vietnamese are highly-skilled drivers and do it every day!

16 WiFi is great!

Except when the government announces sharks have eaten underwater fiber-optic cables (yes, this is a thing), Internet connection in Vietnam is surprisingly fast.

WiFi networks are reliable and can be found pretty much everywhere. I mean, even some street vendors have it. Coffeeshops in HCMC offer speeds up to 100Mbps!

If you want to stay connected at all times you will need a local SIM card. Good news: there are many options available at very affordable prices. Remember: prefer data over text/voice as you can communicate solely using data through Whatsapp, Skype or Apple’s Facetime.

We got our SIM card from Viettel right at Saigon ‘s airport and it was an incredible deal: less than $20 for 20GB (!) of data. We then put it into our mobile WiFi router and done deal: we had data abroad for 2 people for an entire month for under $20!

travelling to vietnam tips

HUAWEI E5577s-321 Mobile WiFi Router

Put any SIM card in the world inside and it will share the data across all your devices via WiFi (up to 10!). The battery lasts 12 hours of working. Can’t recommend it enough!

17 Be careful with your card.

On our very first sit-down meal in Ho Chi Minh City we decided to pay with card. Stupidly, we let the waiter take the card inside.

When she returned, our safety piece of paper we had put on the back to protect the 3-digit code was gone. We asked what happened several times and only received a bunch of lame excuses. We had to cancel the card immediately – better safe than sorry!

You might argue card cloning attempts can happen anywhere – true that – but it had never happened to me so it’s a good idea to never leave your card out of sight in Vietnam.

18 It’s freaking cheap.

Basically everything that you buy in Vietnam will be a bargain. Food is the best example. You can easily have sit-down meals for less than $5 and street food snacks for 0.20$!

To give you idea of travel costs, it’s quite common to find backpackers on a budget of $30 per day – including accommodation, transportation and meals. Package tours can quickly make your stay more expensive though.

The shopping centers and markets are also full of amazing deals at haggling distance. Here the discount will largely rely on your negotiating skills… My favorite place for shopping was Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City . It’s a true consumerist mecca with hundreds of stalls for every piece of clothing, textiles, gadgets and handicrafts.

Bargains to buy in Vietnam 💸

  • 💸 Belts : genuine leather belts are common, as well as faux leather ones. Either should be below $10.
  • 💸 Clothing : many international companies have their manufacturing facilities in Vietnam so you can find great quality replicas here. Prices are at least a third of the price of the US/Europe.
  • 💸 Sportswear : specially popular for some reason. I bought good quality Nike and Under Armour sportswear clothes (and I don’t really care if they’re genuine or not).
  • 💸 Electronics and cell phones : you might get lucky with a great deal but I personally don’t think is worth the risk.
  • 💸 Gadget accessories : phone covers, protectors and other accessories are widely available starting at $1.
  • 💸 Souvenirs : coffee, tea and handicrafts which make cool pieces of home decoration can be found in streets and markets at competitive prices.

19 Phu Quoc is overrated…

I’ll start with the positives. It was in Phu Quoc island that a lovely family taught us to ride a bike. I will never forget that gesture. Also some remote bays and coves in the north of Phu Quoc island are a true dream, with turquoise waters, crystal clear waters and boasting beautiful views to Cambodia .

We expect more from a place marketed as “paradise island” though.

It’s impossible to look past all the bleached corals, soulless towns, dirty beaches and massive landfills in the open sky by the side of the road. Even what is considered to be the best beach in Vietnam – Sao Beach – was awfully full of trash for most of its extension when I was there.

Ironically the entire island is building new massive resorts and fancy hotels at a unhesitating rate. I fear there will be hardly anything left to lure tourists in by the time they’re finished.

Perhaps I went in the worst possible time or additional factors that created a different atmosphere (e.g. a storm or strong monsoon). Perhaps this is a place for an all-inclusive resort type of vacation. Nevertheless what I’ve seen and that is not enough to make me come back or even suggest anyone to go.

20 While Ninh Binh is underrated.

tips vietnam things to know before traveling vietnam ninh binh

Quite honestly Ninh Binh was a last-minute addition to our itinerary . I was unsure what to expect and it turned out to be my favorite place of my 2-month backpacking trip to Southeast Asia.

Locals nickname this rural region the “Halong Bay in land” due to the massive limestone cliffs scattered in between the rice fields, ancient pagodas and endless caves . The scenery level is outstanding, the locals are extremely friendly and the whole place still looks and feels an authentic gem.

Most people visit Ninh Binh on a day trip from Hanoi, but this is not even close to make justice to this place. Stay for at least 2 full days to explore it at your own pace – by bike preferably – and let the rural side of Vietnam surprise you once all the day trippers are gone.

21 Avoid tap water!

Pretty self-explanatory isn’t it? It’s the #1 rule of travelers in Asia and even locals in Vietnam know it.

Additionally it’s advisable to implement level 2 of alert and avoid ice and salads – you don’t know if and how they’ve been washed – and only brush your teeth with bottled water. If you do this and wash your hands regularly, you’re on track to avoid 90% of all food poisonings and tummy pains there.

To keep yourself hydrated, you will have to carry bottled water or use a water filtering system at all times. Take your pick.

travelling to vietnam tips

GRAYL Ultralight Water Purifier Bottle

Buying several water bottles a day is not bad for the environment. This bottle makes clean drinking water from any fresh water source in seconds, removing chemicals and 99.999% of most viruses and bacteria (including E.Coli).

22 Learn how to get around efficiently.

There are many ways of getting around in Vietnam , but here’s a short overview.

Short distances

  • 🏍 Motorbikes: with a total of over 45 million bikes, this has to be the unofficial transport of Vietnam . Locals eat, sleep in their bikes and carry all sorts of items on them, including live chickens and pigs! Renting a bike is inexpensive, starting at 100k dong/day. But if you’re a newbie like me, leave the urban areas for driving experts.
  • 🏍 Motorbike taxis ( xe om ): translated as hug the driver , these drivers will drive you anywhere you want. As local as it gets.
  • 🚖 Taxis: although becoming increasingly better, taxis are often a source of scams for travelers. Grab and Uber are preferable, but if you really need to take a taxi, stick to more reliable companies like Vinasun .
  • 📲 Grab/Uber: these ride-sharing apps are seamless options to move around. No scams, fair prices and without issues in the navigation.
  • 🚍 Buses: avoid as these are hot, slow and extremely uncomfortable.

Long distances

  • 🚍 Buses: the most common way to get around Vietnam both for locals and tourists. Companies have several routes operated by fairly comfortable overnight buses with beds and free WiFi.
  • 🚆 Trains: trains haven’t been updated since the Vietnam War so expect them to be clunky and not always clean. That said, it is a great option to slow your pace down and enjoy the journey. Some of the routes – like between Hanoi and Sapa – are beautiful and very popular with travelers.
  • ✈️ Flights: not the most authentic way of enjoying your time in Vietnam , but they can come in very handy and cut travel times severely. Internal flights are affordable, specially if you opt for low-cost companies like Jetstar , Lion Air , Tiger and of course, AirAsia .

23 Take care of your belongings.

vietnam travel tips coffeshops laptop

The million-dong question:

Is Vietnam safe to visit?

Contrarily to popular belief, Vietnam is in general a very safe country. There’s hardly any crime as locals are extremely tranquil, kind and non-violent people.

Apart from the potential of being ripped off by a few thousand dong by travel agents, the only type of crime you are likely to encounter is petty theft. Pickpockets can act in some touristy areas – please name a country where this doesn’t happen though!

On my view the most worrying thing in Vietnam is item-snatching while driving past on a motorbike. It appears to be common in urban areas and thieves can snatch everything from bags to backpacks and phones.

But even this shouldn’t be a major issue if you take basic common–sense precautions:

  • Don’t show off any expensive items carelessly.
  • Spread your most valuable items across different pockets/bags.
  • Avoid using your phone on busy streets.
  • Carry your camera with the strip around your body.

24 It’s worth to splurge on a Halong Bay cruise. 🚢

travel tips things to know vietnam halong bay

Halong Bay is the #1 destination in Vietnam and it shows by the incredible number of cruise boats navigating the seas. I mean, for some reason this is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World!

Despite the crowds, this place is unique. The landscape of limestone cliffs emerging from the water is magical and there’s no better way to enjoy it than from the sea. Debate whether you prefer a 1-day, 2-day or even a 3-day cruise but if there’s something to splurge your budget this is it!

The general feedback is that luxury cruises in Halong are a fantastic experience; budget ones can be a bit a real nightmare.

If the budget allows, go for one of the top cruise boats , which include transport from Hanoi , top-notch food and all sorts of activities (kayaking, tai-chi, etc).

As much as I love independent travel, I admit it felt good to have a little break during my 2-month trip to Asia and have someone else decide what to eat and do during the day.

Again, I can’t stress enough the importance of doing your homework when choosing your tour. You can have the time of your life or get scammed big time here. To help you further, I’ve narrowed down your search to the best cruise boats in Booking.com and dedicated a full article to picking the right Halong Bay cruise .

My choice for a cruise in Halong Bay 🚢

vietnam tips things to know before travel vietnam halong bay cruise

Cristina Diamond Cruise Can’t recommend it enough. I’d go for the 2 nights cruise for a more complete and relaxing experience, but that’s highly dependent on the time you have available.

25 Some basic words of Vietnamese can go a long way.

As a highly tonal language, Vietnamese has intricate sounds quite hard to replicate with your throat and mouth. I’ve tried to say some words out loud and for some reason it never sounds as the way it is written.

In any case, it’s always good to master some quick words and expressions. Not only it will facilitate your communication with locals – very few of them speak fluent English – but you’re guaranteed to get a smile in return!

Basic Vietnamese words and expressions for travelers 🗣

  • 🗣 Hello – Xin chĂ o (sin chow)
  • 🗣 Thank you – CáșŁm ÆĄn (gauhm uhhn)
  • 🗣 Excuse me/Sorry – Xin loi (seen loy)
  • 🗣 What’s your name – Ban ten gi (ban thane zee)
  • 🗣 My name is… – Toi la… (thoy la…)

As a result of periods of European occupation, some words are extremely similar to French. For instance cĂ  phĂȘ (from cafĂ© ), pho mĂĄt (from fromage , cheese) and ba gĂĄc (from bagage , luggage).

26 Go for the street food!

Being afraid to try street food is missing out on a huge part of Vietnamese culture. Cooked on the spot, served on plastic bowls or dishes it’s better enjoyed in one of the pocket-sized tables and chairs on the spot.

I can officially state my best Gỏi cuốn and pho were from a street food stall. I can’t guarantee the food will always be better than restaurants nor that they always comply to basic sanitary rules. But for the love of pho , you need to at least try!

Eating on the street is as authentic as it gets in Vietnam and a fantastic way to travel on a budget . Full indulging meals can be found for $1. Yes, I said $1.

Pro tips: Prefer the stalls where locals go the most. Pay attention to how they wash the utensils and whether the meat is well cooked. If you’re unsure, start with small snacks before moving to full meals. An nĂ o !

travel vietnam tips hanoi rail way

More articles about Vietnam

  • Ninh Binh: Detailed Travel Guide to Vietnam’s Hidden Gem
  • Ninh Binh Itinerary: Explore Rural Vietnam On Your Own
  • Halong Bay: How to Choose The Best Cruise In 6 Easy Steps
  • Hanoi vs Ho Chi Minh City: Which Vietnam City Is Right For You?
Are you planning to visit Vietnam? Where? If you have visited already, I want to hear your very own useful Vietnam tips!

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10 Quick Vietnam Travel Tips for First-time Visitors

Planning to visit Vietnam for the first time? These 10 quick tips will help you prepare for your trip and travel Vietnam like a pro.

Vietnam is one of my favourite places on Earth.

Having lived in Hanoi and explored most of the country, I know a thing or two about travel in Vietnam – especially the common concerns that trip travellers up.

Here are my 10 top travel tips for Vietnam.

Vietnam flag icon.

More from Vietnam

Discover the best city guides, itineraries, travel tips & hidden gems in my Vietnam Travel Guide.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more. This post contains a compensated link.

A woman sells tropical fruit from a basket on the streets of Hoi An, Vietnam.

10 quick Vietnam travel tips for first timers

1. sort out your visa.

You probably have your Vietnam wish list in mind already. A Vietnam visa application should be the next step . With your most important document sorted, you can focus on planning your itinerary and sorting out the logistics that will ensure a smooth trip.

It goes without saying, but your number one priority should be to organise your visa. Every traveller requires one, and it’s a good idea to start the process well in advance.

When I first visited Vietnam, I had to apply for a visa the old-school way by posting my passport to the nearest embassy. With the introduction of the e-Visa, it’s never been easier or faster to get your entry permit in order. I will discuss this process in detail later.

2. Purchase your travel insurance

Travel insurance is absolutely essential for Vietnam regardless of your travel style or plans. If you’re thinking about hiring a motorbike or cycling , trekking in the national parks or doing any water activities, then you definitely need a good policy that will cover you in case of an accident.

I recommend SafetyWing for longer trips – check out my detailed review to learn more about inclusions and exclusions.

3. Pick the right season to visit

Because of its geography, the climate in Vietnam varies drastically between the north and the south. Many travellers don’t realise this and mistakenly think the weather and temperature will be uniform for their entire trip.

Generally speaking, spring (March to April) and autumn (September to early December) are the most pleasant times to visit Vietnam. It’s not too cold yet in the north, and not too hot in the south or on the coast.

Remember the weather is unpredictable and can bring anything from freezing temperatures and frequent downpours to intense heat and evening storms.

In order to pick the right season, you should first have a firm idea of where you want to travel. If you only have a specific window of time when you can travel, then you might need to adjust your itinerary based on the weather.

4. Be selective with your itinerary – don’t try to fit too much in

As an advocate of slow travel I always recommend moving through a country at a steady pace – especially if it’s your first visit. You need at least three full days to do the big cities such as Hanoi and Saigon justice. Take advantage of Vietnam’s best day trips to see more of the country while using the cities as a base.

It takes time to get to know Vietnam, its culture, traditions and food – and every region is different. If you try to fit too much in and rush through, your experience might not be as fulfilling.

Another thing to keep in mind: Vietnam may look small on the map, but don’t let that deceive you. It still takes time to travel around the country, especially if you’re relying on trains and buses. Incorporating a few domestic flights is a great way to save time and see more.

5. Pre-book your airport transfer (my top Vietnam travel tip!)

Using taxis in Vietnam can be overwhelming, which is why I recommend buying a local sim card and downloading a taxi app as soon as you get to your first destination.

My biggest tip if you want to hit the ground running is to pre-book your airport transfer so that you don’t have to worry about getting to your first hotel. I am a frequent traveller to Vietnam but I still pre-organise my airport transfer every time I go – cars are very reasonably priced and it makes life so much easier.

→ Book a Hanoi airport transfer here

→ Book a Ho Chi Minh City airport transfer here

6. Learn a few key Vietnamese phrases

Vietnamese is the official language in Vietnam but English is widely spoken – especially in popular tourist areas and among the younger generations. However, if you want to have a more holistic experience and demonstrate your respect for the local culture, it’s nice to know a few basic phrases.

Even if it’s just a few words, people will appreciate that you’ve taken the time to learn some Vietnamese. It might even open doors to you that are normally closed to outsiders.

Here is a great resource for learning traveller’s Vietnamese .

7. Plan your budget carefully

Don’t make the mistake of thinking everything in Vietnam is ‘cheap’. While it’s true that Vietnam is incredibly good value for money (especially when it comes to accommodation and food), there are still some things that are worth splashing out on, for example a quality Halong Bay trip from Hanoi .

Cash is still king in Vietnam, so make sure you carry plenty of dong (the official currency) with you. Street food stalls, markets, taxis and small hotels and homestays (especially in rural areas) might only accept cash.

8. Understand the tipping etiquette

Tipping is not compulsory in Vietnam but it is very much appreciated. Tipping tour guides and drivers is best practice – I recommend 10-20% depending on how satisfied you are with the service.

Note that some restaurants and cafes will add a 10% service fee to your bill.

9. Pack the right clothes

The humidity in parts of Vietnam is intense, so you need breathable clothes that you can wash and dry overnight. Natural materials such as cotton or linen are preferable. Most locals cover up in hot weather so if you want to blend in, carry a light scarf or long-sleeved throw over that you use to protect your arms from the sun.

Warm gear is absolutely essential if you’re travelling to the north in the winter months. It’s always a good idea to have a travel raincoat and umbrella with you no matter the season.

Conservative dress is required for temples and religious sites. I recommend a scarf for women and long, lightweight pants for men.

10. Don’t forget your camera!

Vietnam is nothing if not photogenic. From Hanoi’s Old Quarter to the dreamy landscapes around Dalat , it’s one beautiful landscape after the next.

Remember to be respectful when practicing street photography and always ask for permission before taking someone’s portrait. This is especially important in rural areas.

BONUS: Use an eSIM to get online

eSIM technology makes it easier than ever to get online in Vietnam and stay connected during your travels. There are some great plans available for Vietnam and the region, with easy set up and competitive prices.

Learn more about the different Vietnam eSIM options here in my detailed guide .

How to apply for the e-Visa to travel to Vietnam

Within three working days, you can get your e-Visa in three simple steps. Remember the visa is valid for 30 days. Here’s how to apply for an e-Visa for Vietnam.

1. Confirm your eligibility

The Vietnam e-Visa is available to passport holders from 81 countries. Double-check to see if your country is included on the list – otherwise you will need to apply for a different visa.

2. Get your documents ready

You will need a JPG photo, a passport with six months’ validity, an international credit or debit card, and a temporary Vietnam address (the address of your first hotel will do, so make sure you’ve booked at least one night’s accommodation). You need to provide your entry and exit dates.

3. Start your application

Go to Vietnam’s e-Visa official website and upload the required documents. Then supply the required information about your journey. After payment, you will receive a registration code. Keep this number safe as you might need it later. If approved, you will be able to visit the website and download your e-Visa after three working days.

Have you been to Vietnam? What is your top Vietnam tip for first-time travellers?

Vietnam essentials

Here are the booking sites and services I personally use whenever I travel to Vietnam .

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Vietnam using Skyscanner .

VIETNAM VISA: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Vietnam and apply for an expedited e-visa online. Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation if required.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

AIRPORT TRANSFERS: Pre-book a private hotel transfer from Hanoi Airport or Ho Chi Minh City Airport via Get Your Guide.

SIM CARD: Buy an eSIM and data package for Vietnam online before you go. My top choice is the Asia Link Regional eSIM by Airalo (10 GB for 30 days).

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best hotel deals in Vietnam on Agoda or book a Vietnam hostel .

TRAIN TICKETS: Reserve your Vietnam Rail tickets for the train to Sapa , Da Nang, Hue or Saigon via 12GoAsia.

BUS TICKETS: Buy your domestic bus or plane tickets in advance using 12GoAsia or Bookaway .

FOODIE EXPERIENCES: Find the best cooking classes and foodie experiences in Vietnam on Cookly. Here are my top 15 Vietnam food experiences to help you decide.

DAY TOURS: Find the best city tours and day excursions in Vietnam on Get Your Guide. Check out my top 10 best Vietnam day trips for more inspiration.

HALONG BAY: Consult my comprehensive Halong Bay guide to find the best cruises & tours.

VIETNAM GUIDEBOOK: Pick up a copy of the latest Lonely Planet guidebook for Vietnam .

More Vietnam travel resources

  • Off the beaten track in Northern Vietnam – hidden gems & local favourites
  • Where to go in Southern Vietnam – 5 must-sees
  • The best things to do in Dalat
  • How to spend 3 days in Hoi An
  • How to get from Danang to Hoi An – transport guide
  • How to visit the abandoned dragon waterpark in Hue
  • Where to buy authentic Vietnamese souvenirs in Hanoi
  • The best national parks to visit in Vietnam – for trekking & more
  • Waterwheels & rice fields in Pu Luong Nature Reserve
  • Cycling the Ho Chi Minh Trail in Phong Nha
  • Homestays in Da Bac village
  • Halong Bay alternatives – where to go beyond the bay
  • How to travel to Halong Bay from Hanoi – transport guide
  • How to travel to Sapa from Hanoi – transport guide
  • Where to stay in Sapa, Vietnam – best homestays & more
  • Visiting Bac Ha Market near Sapa
  • Guide to Ha Giang in far-northern Vietnam
  • Guide to visiting Ninh Binh
  • Exploring colonial architecture in Hai Phong city
  • Day trip from Hanoi to Duong Lam Ancient Village

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Helena Bradbury

Top 20 vietnam travel tips - after spending 3+ months there.

After spending several months hopping all over Vietnam, including one month living in Hanoi and two more in Da Nang, I’m often asked for Vietnam travel tips, especially for first time visitors to Vietnam.

Vietnam can be a shock, especially if you’ve never travelled in Southeast Asia before. It’s chaotic, busy, road rules are so different and the language and cultural barriers can feel overwhelming at first.

But ultimately Vietnam is a very safe and welcoming country that is focusing more and more on tourism - so as long as you’re prepared with your Vietnam itinerary and a few travel tips to get you started, you’ll be perfectly prepared for your epic adventure.

So I’m sharing my top 20 travel tips for Vietnam after 3 months here (and counting!)

a three tier wooden temple pagoda surrounded by greenery and cliffs

Trang An temples

Essential travel tips for Vietnam

1. you’ll need to learn to walk in traffic.

The further north you are in Vietnam, the more you need this tip. Road rules are a non-concept in Vietnam except for one - everyone follows their own rules.

There is a real “me first” mentality when it comes to drivers in Vietnam and the sheer volume of traffic on the roads, especially scooters, means the cities are just chaotic. Particularly in Hanoi where there are no pavements in the city but millions of scooters weaving in and out of alleyways, between parked cars, vehicles parked randomly in the road or drivers driving the wrong way up roads.

Red lights are not obeyed and pedestrian crossings might as well not exist - so you need to learn to step out into the traffic.

Drivers expect to come across pedestrians and are very good at avoiding them. However don’t expect a break in the traffic, you will need to learn to just step out and let the traffic flow around you. A local told us it’s like water flowing around rocks in a stream - they will just keep driving and you need to keep moving forward - you’ll get used to it soon, I promise!

a busy street in Hanoi with lots of motorbikes and traffic

Busy street in Hanoi Old Town

2. Keep moving forward when crossing the road

Point 1 leads me to point 2 - you are most likely to be hit by a scooter if you panic and step backwards when you’ve already started crossing the road.

Drivers are prepared to weave around pedestrians and they decide which way to weave based on the direction you’re moving in, so if you suddenly step backwards - you’re more likely to cause a collision.

Just keep moving forward - slow and steady!

2. Someone flashing their headlights or using the car horn isn’t them letting you, it means they’re going

This one took me a while to figure out because in the UK, if you’re crossing the road or even in a vehicle, someone flashing their lights at you means “go ahead, I’m giving way to you”.

In Vietnam it means the opposite, it’s more like a warning - “I’m coming through.”

So if someone flashes, don’t step out.

In the same way, using car horns is an aggression thing in the UK but in Vietnam it’s just used as an alert to let someone know the vehicle is there or coming through.

3. Use Grab to get around

Grab is the Southeast Asian equivalent of Uber and it is incredibly cheap!

We usually get a Grab for around 30,000 VND (ÂŁ1) for a 10 minute ride - an amazing deal!

4. Don’t worry too much about booking stuff in advance, everything is bookable when you’re there!

a view looking out across a bay with lots of rocky islands covered in greenery and small boats dotted around - Ha Long Bay in Vietnam

Ha Long Bay

Before my trip I was so worried about booking tours and trips or bus travel in Vietnam but aside from tour companies like GetYourGuide, I couldn’t find a way to book tickets to cover transfers or long distances in advance.

I needn’t have worried. A lot of Vietnamese businesses are small businesses who don’t have a website and definitely not an international website. So much of business is done in Vietnam by word-of-mouth or referrals.

We were able to make all of our bookings through our hotels or accommodation, or if they couldn’t help us with a booking, they knew someone who could.

Everyone knows someone who knows someone and that really comes in handy once you’re in the country.

Plus you’re more likely to get a better price by booking locally (and in cash) in Vietnam rather than online before you arrive.

5. Never accept the first price at a market

An ancient town in Vietnam with shops with lots of bags and clothing products outside, people walking and cycling in front of the shops

Hoi An Ancient Town

Vietnam is a country where haggling is acceptable. 

It’s also a country where visiting tourists don’t realise how cheap products are and as such, are often sold items at much inflated prices, especially in popular tourist hotspots like Hoi An or Hanoi old town.

I suggest having a figure in mind that you’d like to pay before going to buy and have the cash ready - nothing more. 

Usually sellers will name a number that’s much higher than the actual selling price. Of course it’s most likely still an affordable price for you, so it’s ultimately up to you whether you choose to haggle.

But generally you can haggle it down by about a quarter to a third. I often find that starting to walk away usually leads to the cheapest price being offered.

6. Don’t flush your toilet paper

There’s signs everywhere reminding you, but seriously the sewage and plumbing systems can’t handle it and you DO NOT want to be responsible for flooding/backing up an entire hotel or restaurant.

I know it takes some adjusting to put toilet paper in the bin, but it’s only uncomfortable for you. This is normal and necessary in Vietnam.

If you’re staying in a hotel, bins will be taken out daily.

7. Don’t drink the tap water

Another one that can be hard to adjust to depending on where you come from.

Drinking tap water is not only bad in Vietnam because of the bacteria, but the water also has high levels of heavy metal poisoning, 15x higher than the recommended according to the WHO. 

Stick to bottled water if you want to enjoy your trip without stomach upsets.

I was so resistant to this as I hate using plastic bottles and single use plastics, I even looked into the steriliser pens and tablets for water but these are mostly effective against bacteria and not the heavy metals.

Ultimately, it’s wise to play it safe and stick to bottled water - the locals do it too. If they do then that means you definitely should!

8. Ask for drinks without ice

looking down on a busy street lit up at night with lots of bars and people milling around

Beer Street in Hanoi, Vietnam

Leading on from the point above, don’t take the risk of iced drinks.

While some places will make their ice with bottled water, not all do. So you run the risk of getting something from the frozen water in your iced drink.

9. The most cost effective way to buy water if you’re staying for a while

If you’re staying in Vietnam for a while, it’s worth getting a water dispenser from the convenience store.

These look like the standard water barrels you get in the top of a water cooler at the office, but you put them on your worktop and the tap means you can refill your own water bottle each day - less plastic bottles used!

To buy these water barrels at the store, you put a deposit for the barrel then buy the water, bring the barrel back empty and swap it for a fresh one and just pay the water fee each time. Or if you’re done with the barrel, return it empty and get your deposit back.

10. Bring cover ups for temples - especially women

Being respectful in other countries and cultures is vital and never more so in places of religious significance.

What is a tourist attraction to you is a belief system and a way of life for others.

Most temples require shoulders to be covered on men and women while women will also need to cover legs too. Some stricter places may require men to wear long trousers too.

It’s good practice to keep a pair of lightweight pants, a long skirt or foldable sarong in your bag for these occasions.

11. Always carry cash

Vietnam is still very much a cash society. While you can pay by card in most supermarkets, major convenience stores, hotels and some city restaurants, you’ll find that smaller, local, independent or rural businesses still only accept cash.

Although Vietnam’s currency is large denominations, they don’t use coins, so it’s easy to carry around notes in wallets or your pocket.

a woman standing next to her street food stand in Vietnam

Hanoi street food

12. Book your accommodation with the nightlife in mind

This may genuinely not be an issue for some people, especially if you’re a heavy sleeper.

Vietnam doesn’t really have noise restrictions or business closing hours and we’ve learnt the hard way that booking accommodation next to a club, bar, night market or party street is a recipe for an awful night's sleep.

On one occasion we booked an apartment for a month on a quiet residential street and discovered on our second night that there was a techno bar across the road - I can only imagine how awful it was for the elderly people living next door!

13. Join expat or local Facebook groups and WhatsApp groups to ask questions

I highly recommend joining expat groups on Facebook or Whatsapp to ask questions and get the most up to date info about your destination, especially if you’re planning to stay for a while.

Hanoi Expats 

Hanoi Events

For Hoi An and Da Nang:

Expats in Da Nang Hoi An on Facebook

Digital Nomads in Da Nang on Facebook

Whatsapp group for Da Nang and Hoi An

For Ho Chi Minh City:

Expats in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Expat Community in Ho Chi Minh City

There are groups for most major destinations - I recommend having a search before you go if you have any questions about the best areas to stay or recommendations for niche activities like where to rent a bike or good surf spots.

a white sandy beach in Da Nang Vietnam with blue sea and beach goers, city skyline lines the bay and hills in the distance

Beach in Da Nang

14. Don’t forget bug spray or mosquito repellent

As someone who suffers badly from mosquito bites - it’s probably one of the worst I’ve ever experienced in Vietnam during the humid summer months.

In the winter when it’s colder it’s much less of an issue.

But if you’re visiting in the warmer and humid months, bring repellant and long clothing for the evenings.

15. Don’t assume trains are the best way to cover long distances, domestic flights are very cheap in Vietnam

I’ve heard great things about the scenery on trains in Vietnam, but I’ve heard bad things about how unhygienic and busy they can be.

Domestic flights in Vietnam are an easy and cheap way to get around if your Vietnam itinerary is taking you across further distances such as Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.

If you’re covering shorter distances such as Hanoi to Sapa or Hoi An to Hue, buses are most likely the best and most affordable and reliable option.

16. Lazada and Shopee are the equivalents of Amazon in Vietnam 

Need something quick in Vietnam? I always try to buy something locally but if you’re like me and planning to spend a month or two in Vietnam, sometimes you can only get the exact thing you need from an Amazon-like platform.

Lazada and Shopee are your best options and you can get deliveries to your apartment rental or hotel.

17. You can get much more for less in Vietnam

This is much more of a reminder rather than a tip but if you’ve always wanted to stay in a luxury jungle resort or an overwater bungalow or a villa with an infinity pool, you can do all those things for a fraction of the cost compared to destinations like the Maldives, Seychelles, Greece or the Caribbean.

I suggest looking around on Booking .com but also using Agoda which is a much more popular booking platform in Asia with incredible accommodation deals.

18. Read the reviews EVERYWHERE!

My last tip leads me on to this one


In our early days in Vietnam, when we booked accommodation online we started to realise some of the reviews were fake or clearly done by friends, some even followed the same script written by different people!

I highly recommend checking reviews on Booking .com, Agoda, Google and TripAdvisor (or all of the above) to compare reviews across different platforms.

Of course there are always negative reviews for everywhere but we often got a much more accurate idea of whether photos were a true representation of the accommodation and whether it really did look as nice and luxurious as the photos, by checking reviews in multiple places.

19. Consider an extra suitcase for your return trip

I caveat this by saying I have never been someone who buys so much that I need an additional bag on the way home.

However, I actually had to mail stuff home while we were in Vietnam because I had acquired too much!

With Hoi An being famous for its cheap tailoring, you might want to consider a bespoke suit or tailored dress. With very cheap decor, homeware, electronics and clothing, there are great deals and a lot are handmade here in Vietnam then sent to western countries and marked up in price.

Many factories are based in Vietnam and you can find well-made garments for a fraction of the price that the same would sell for at home.

Just a consideration for when you book your trip!

Woman in a red outfiit in front of a lantern shop in Vietnam with lots of colourful lanterns lit up

Hoi An lantern shops

20. Vietnam is very safe

Vietnam is probably one of the safest places I’ve ever been. 

Obviously exercise caution like you would anywhere in the world, even in your own hometown. 

But if you’re anxious about your first trip to Southeast Asia or perhaps you’re a worried parent, as a female in my 20s, I’m hyper-vigilant about myself and my surroundings, yet I’ve never once felt unsafe or threatened or uncomfortable in Vietnam. 

I’ve found it to be a very chilled, respectful and welcoming society where people just tend to go about their day without bothering you or wanting to be bothered.

Summary: top tips for travelling to Vietnam

I hope my months spent in Vietnam have given you some helpful tips and things to consider for your trip.

It truly is a beautiful, chaotic, colourful and exciting place to visit with dynamic destinations, welcoming people and so much history and culture to explore on a budget.

Pin to save it for your trip!

Don’t go to Vietnam without reading these Vietnam travel tips before you leave! Whether you’re a first time visitor to Vietnam or a regular, these tips are always important. | tips for traveling to vietnam | traveling to vietnam tips | vietnam travel

50 Vietnam Travel Tips I Wish I Would’ve Had

Vietnam Travel Tips

Here are all the best Vietnam travel tips I could think of based on my own trips within the country. Let this be your one stop guide to one of the coolest countries in Asia!

One of my favorite things about slow travel is how familiar you become a place that was once completely foreign. Even though I’d planned my own Vietnam itinerary before, I really got to know the country well when I accidentally found myself calling it home for sixteen months! While there, I learned about more places than I could possibly visit and my bucket list grew exponentially. I’ve written quite extensively about specific spots, but I’ve been meaning to write a huge, practical tip guide similar to my Korea Travel Tips post.

If this is your first time visiting the country, here are ALL the tips and advice you’ll need to know.

I’ve divided it up into:

  • Things to know before visiting
  • How to travel in Vietnam
  • Where to stay
  • Itinerary tips
  • Major things to do
  • What to eat
  • Safety and hygiene
  • Souvenir shopping
  • Random travel tips

The World Coffee Museum, Buon Ma Thuot, Vietnam

Things to Know Before Visiting Vietnam

1. learn some vietnamese.

For the most part, it’s fairly easy to travel Vietnam knowing only English. However, I do think it’s always good to know some Vietnamese, even if it’s as simple as “hello” and “thank you.”

Here are some phrases to help you out:

  • xin chao : hello
  • cam on : thank you
  • oi: used to get attention – combine with “em (younger), anh (older male), or chi (older female)” – “anh oi!”
  • troi oi: omg, Vietnam-style
  • dung lai o day : stop here
  • mot, hai, ba: 1, 2, 3
  • – o dau? : where is -?

I actually wound up taking Vietnamese lessons and loved it. If you’re living in Saigon, I can’t recommend Co Kim enough! Check her Facebook page for upcoming sessions.

2. Learn a bit of Vietnamese history

Vietnam has a very long and complex history that explains a lot of what you’ll see today! Like why are there so many French colonial buildings? What actually happened during the Vietnamese War? Who exactly was Ho Chi Minh? What are ethnic minority tribes. Is there royalty in Vietnam?

It’s actually such an interesting history, and the more you see, the more you’ll be curious about! I’d start with a few Youtube videos to get an overview and then find some cool movies to watch and books to read!

3. Know where you’re flying in

There are two main airports for international visitors: Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi and Tan Son Nhat Airport in HCMC. If you’re living in Asia, you could also probably fly into Da Nang International Airport as well.

Since Hanoi and HCMC are at opposite ends of Vietnam wherever you fly in pretty much just depends on your itinerary! When I came for 2 weeks, I flew in to HCMC from Seoul and then out of Hanoi back to Seoul. I don’t remember the prices being that different.

In case you were wondering:

  • Noi Bai – 40-50 minutes from Hanoi’s Old Quarter
  • Tan Son Nhat – 15-20 mins from D1 in HCMC, 40ish minutes from Thao Dien
  • Da Nang – 10 mins or less into town

4. Make sure to pick up a SIM card

The wifi and data in Vietnam are pretty good all things considered! I distinctly remember having a SIM card and watching the entirety of Brooklyn on my train ride from HCMC to Da Nang with no issues.

You can get them easily at any airport if you have an unlocked phone or dual SIM card holders, or you can order ahead of time here . Make sure you get a phone with calling capabilities because a lot of places will ask you to list your phone number and Grab drivers will always try to call.

Pro Tip: To top off on the go, use Ding.com ! Works really well and is good about returning your money if it doesn’t work for whatever reason. You can also pay via Paypal.

5. Understand Vietnam’s very vast geography

Of all my initial Vietnam travel tips, the biggest one is this — realize just how long this country is. Like longer than you’d think when planning your trip. If you want to travel efficiently, you’re going to want to fly in between places or be prepared to be on a train or bus for hours. Even when distances seem fairly short, you have to factor in the roads and mountains, and often it’s much slower getting to and fro than you’d think (RIP my mental stability during the 8 hours to Mu Cang Chai ).

I would very much plan out where you want to go and check the map AND check airplane or train routes before you book anything. One mistake my friend and I made was thinking we could fly from Quy Nhon to Hue before realizing there were no flights even to Da Nang! We wound up booking private transport and it took us all day to get there.

6. Know the seasons of Vietnam (and how the regions vary!)

I know you think southeast Asia, must mean it’s hot, humid, and sunny for most of the year. WRONG. It definitely gets cold up north and in the Central Highlands during the winter and early spring. While it does stay quite humid and hot along the central coast and southern regions, you do want to be wary of monsoon season. It can start in April or May and last until October. I didn’t find it too terrible to plan around, and it made the weather so slightly cooler. Just be sure to buy some waterproof sandals (I liked having the Birkenstock Gizeh sandals ).

7. Tips for Clothing and What to Wear in Vietnam

Overall, Vietnam isn’t a super conservative. There are just some things to keep in mind. Like you want to cover up slightly more in Hanoi than in Saigon, and it’s always good to have shoulders and knees covered in at temples and when meeting minority tribes! Otherwise you want to dress to be as comfortable as possible in the tropical climate (unless you’re somewhere colder in the winter). I cannot emphasize how much nicer cotton and linen in lighter colors or black will feel! Avoid colors that show sweat because you will most likely sweat a lot. I pretty much lived in linen dresses!

8. Exchange + Money Matters

Since I have Citibank, I mainly used the Citi ATMS around HCMC to take out cash. Here are the main locations:

  • In Vincom Center near the Zara entrance
  • The Citi building on Nguyen Hue
  • At the airport near the exit
  • At AIS Sports Centre in Thao Dien

Otherwise you can use just about any ATM to take out cash, though most have smaller limits and will charge a certain fee.

Note: Vietnam is NOT credit card friendly. While most luxury hotels and foreign food restaurants and cafes take card, you can almost guarantee that smaller restaurants, local guesthouses, and tours will not. I even know friends who have issues using Grab with their cards, and I personally used cash the whole time.

9. How much a Vietnam trip can cost…

It’s no secret that Vietnam is probably one of the cheapest countries to visit if you’re coming from a Western country. You could very easily travel for $25 or less a day if you were on a strict budget. That said, I think it’s important to acknowledge that you are probably coming from an economically stronger country, and it’s honestly in poor taste to nitpick over a few 100,000 VND. Obviously, don’t let some restaurant take you for a fool and charge you 10x what they’d charge someone else, but don’t sit there and bargain over a few dong that you know you can afford and would probably pay way more for in your home country.

10. Tipping in Vietnam

Tipping is Vietnam is weird! Overall, no you don’t tip nearly as much as you do in the US. I’d say the main places to tip are with salon services. Otherwise, I just rounded up when I pay for food and delivery.

Quy Nhon Train Station, The Vietage, Vietnam

How to Travel in Vietnam

11. how to book local buses and trains.

Easily the cheapest (and slowest and most sustainable way) of traveling Vietnam is via its local buses and trains. When I first went, we took all sleeper trains! If you want to make sure you have a spot, use booking sites like Baolau or Bookaway . Otherwise, you can buy when showing up at the bus or train station. I personally don’t recommend showing up at the bus stations to buy a ticket because they’re absolutely bonkers. Like a million people yelling at you at once. Even I got overwhelmed!

12. Sleeper Trains vs Sleeper Buses

So if you’re not familiar with these… intere s ting forms of transport, they’re essentially buses or trains built to sleep on! For buses, you don’t have seats but you have 3 rows of essentially beds. Everyone takes their shoes off before they got on board. It’s actually not too bad unless you’re on a mountain getting swung about. Sleeper trains are split between hard sleepers, soft sleepers, soft seaters, and hard seaters. When we took a soft sleeper train from Da Nang to Ha Noi, it was 4 beds to one room.

Sleeper buses are very hit or miss, and if you have trouble sleeping these will be absolute hell. The trains are much steadier. I’ve done the bus twice from HCMC – Vinh Long and Ha Noi – Mu Cang Chai. The south was fine because it’s a relatively flat road but Ha Noi – Mu Cang Chai was probably the most miserable 8 hours of my life. For 7 1/2 hours you’re on mountainous road and just getting swung about!

13. Grab is king within cities

The way everyone gets around if they don’t have their own motorbikes is via Grab (or one of the other iterations of it). Grab is SE Asia’s Uber or Lyft, and it’s also used for food delivery. You can book either a motorbike or a car. The car is safer, of course, but the motorbike is so much faster. If you’re really concerned about safety, I would recommend buying your own helmet that goes all the way around your face and over your ears. The grab helmets are pretty useless if you get into a crash.

14. Flying is super easy in Vietnam

Honestly, the best and easiest way to get around Vietnam is flying. It’s usually not much pricier than the trains and it’s so much faster. For airports, I also recommend booking a driver or Grab car because motorbikes usually can’t drop you off at the entrance. They have a designated spot and it’s a pain in the ass to get from that spot to the departure area.

Pro Tip: Leave off going to the smaller airports until like 30-45 minutes before. Usually they don’t even let you check in until then and there isn’t that much to eat or drink.

MGallery Saigon, Vietnam

Where to Stay in Vietnam

15. where should you base yourself out of:.

I like to split Vietnam into 3 – southern, central, and northern. HCMC is the main city of the south, Da Nang in the center, and Ha Noi in the north. If you’re the type of person that would rather book somewhere for an extended period and travel from there, then those are the three cities to look in!

16. The best way to book anything? Facebook and Instagram!

Yep! While I do love all the normal booking and tour sites, usually the best option is to just contact properties, tours, and even restaurants via Facebook and Instagram DM. I swear Facebook is how Vietnam interacts the most! Every time I wanted to book a hotel, I usually just Facebooked the hotel and had a reservation. Heck, in Saigon if I wanted to order from somewhere, I sometimes skipped over Grab and just Facebooked them!

With most places, you’ll pay at the end of your stay. While you shouldn’t have issues using a credit card, some smaller spots may only take cash.

17. Staying at homestays

One of the fun, more unique things to do in Vietnam is to stay at a homestay. This is more common in the more countryside areas like in the Mekong. Da Lat, or Sa Pa. You basically stay with a local family or person. It’s not glamorous but it’s a nice way to get more insight into the region! Some home stays are more built for visitors while others you’re literally in someone’s guest room.

18. Picking between hotels and hostels

Because Vietnam is a big backpacker spot, there are an abundance of hotels and hostels with high ratings. I remember looking at Hoi An and having a ton to choose from with a rating of 9 or higher. I’d say to help you choose, look at reviews of customer service and where the hotels/hostels are located. I’ve had some of the loveliest experiences at hostels here and some of the worst at nicer hotels!

19. Indulging in luxury in Vietnam

If you’re a hotel buff, you’re going to love all the incredibly-designed hotels throughout Vietnam. Bill Bensley himself has design quite a few, but I’ve only stayed at Da Nang Intercontinental so far. A number of luxury brands have properties here including Azerai, Aman, Anantara, MGallery, Four Seasons, Six Senses, and much more. Not to mention the boutique hotels like Pilgrimage Village in Hue, Poulo Condor in Con Dao, or the Mia in Saigon. I will also say from my luxury stays, I’ve had nothing but amazing customer service, so if you’re looking to indulge, this is the country to do it.

20. What is Airbnb like in Vietnam?

Airbnb does exist in Vietnam! I used it to find a more long term place when I was coming for a month. Now that I think about it, though, after that first time I hardly used it. When you stay long enough, it’s better to try to rent an apartment, and there are just so many hostels, hotels, homestays, and resorts that Airbnb becomes an afterthought.

travelling to vietnam tips

Vietnam Itinerary Tips

21. first things first, be mindful traveling around tet.

Vietnam has a few holidays throughout the year, but by far the most important is Tet, aka Lunar New Year! When you visit during this time, be prepared for sold out trains, flight prices being much more expensive, and some intense city pollution in the days leading up to the holiday! When I first visited, I made the horrible mistake of booking hard sleepers in our train from HCMC – Da Nang but when I tried to switch to soft sleepers, they were totally booked out. We did manage to at least get some soft seaters, but definitely not a fun journey!

On the flip side, if you do visit Hanoi or Saigon during the actual holiday, it’s pretty much the quietest and cleanest those cities will be all year round! Nguyen Hue Street and a lot of nearby spots are fully decked out for Tet, and the traffic is next to nothing as everyone has gone to their hometowns!

22. Should you book a tour or DIY?

I think tours can make things incredibly easy (which is why I’m roughly planning some TSGA tours for 2023 ;)!). However, Vietnam is a lot easier to visit than it gets credit for. It’s definitely not the breeziest country to visit (Korea and Taiwan are tied for that!), but it’s not some jungle of a country that’s hoping to get back at the imperialist Americans your parents are probably imagining either.

Part of why I believe Vietnam gets SUCH a bad wrap is that in the early ages of travel blogging, pretty much every budget backpacker wrote about it negatively and their posts are what people found. Even when I went in 2016, I remember reading post after post to be wary of scams and how scary the traffic can be. Frankly a lot has changed and in the last decade, and I’d take any post written before 2015 with a grain of salt.

However, Vietnam is very doable to DIY even if you want to go to the more remote areas. I’d say it’s even possible to do solo as a female traveler! As with any country, keep your wits about you, be smart, and find guesthouses and hotels where you can lean on the owners for advice.

23. Where to go if you have…

While you could squeeze in a pretty hectic trip from north to south in a week, you’ll really only skim the surface of Vietnam. You’ll probably have time for Ha Noi, Ha Long or Hoi An/Da Nang, and then some time in HCMC and the Mekong. I would instead pick between northern, central, and southern and explore from there.

For northern Vietnam, try to include Ha Noi, Ha Long, Ninh Binh, and Sa Pa. In central Vietnam, do Da Nang, Hoi An, and Hue. If you’re feeling extra adventurous try going between Hue and Phong Nha, which is where the old DMZ is! In southern Vietnam, enjoy the hustle of Saigon, go down to the Mekong Delta, and enjoy one of the beaches areas in Phu Quoc, Mui Ne, or Con Dao.

This is much more doable for a full country trip and what I did on my first trip. Start in Hanoi or HCMC and fly out of the opposite. Include HCMC, the Mekong, Hoi An, Ha Long, and Hanoi. We spent too long in both Hoi An and Ha Long, so you could probably squeeze in Ninh Binh or Sa Pa in that same time frame!

4 Weeks / 1 Month

Here’s where you can really enjoy Vietnam! Though if you’re anything like me and the people I met, the longer you stay, the more you wind up adding to your list of places to see. I would say one month gives you a lot of time to really enjoy the country and lets you slow travel a bit!

I say first start in the north as the top things to do and see are more active and might have you hiking or trekking. Hit up Sa Pa, Ha Noi, Ninh Binh, and Ha Long. If you want to see more, try Ha Giang Pass (on my list!) or Yen Tu and Binh Lieu, two areas in the same province as Ha Long.

If you want to try riding a motorbike (or can drive one!), then here’s how I’d recommend doing central Vietnam. Fly into Dong Hoi to see Phong Nha. Talk to the owner of Phong Nha Farmstay about doing a motorbike tour from there down to Hue where you’ll stop over at the DMZ. Then check out Vietnam’s royal history in Hue before going to the very picturesque Hoi An. Take a moment to enjoy Da Nang and fly out from here to HCMC.

In HCMC, check out the many things to do (at least one day for the main sites and one day for temple hopping in Cho Lon) before making your way to the Mekong Delta. Most people do a day trip which shows you one area, but if you don’t mind staying overnight, check out Vinh Long or Can Tho. To end your trip, pick either Mui Ne, Con Dao, or Phu Quoc for a little beach getaway!

Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam travel tips

Major Things to Do in Vietnam

I mean this section alone needs to be its own post (working on it, promise). There are so many things to do in Vietnam, but over all here are the big, ore general ones:

24. Take some motorbike lessons…

Why not?! I signed up for a class with Ride with Me Saigon and loved it! Find an instructor who will take you somewhere quiet (so not dropping you in the middle of the city) and patiently get you driving.

25… so you can explore Vietnam’s major loops and highways!

Vietnam is covered in some seriously scenic place best seen via motorbike. The two most famous are Ha Giang Loop super far north and Hai Van pass between Da Nang and Hue. But beyond that there are just so many! When you’re not in the major cities, you’ll find yourself just wanting a motorbike to get around. I never *got* why a lot of people liked motorcycles, but once I started driving I could see why. There’s just something so freeing about it that you don’t get in a car.

26. Cafe hop like your life depends on it

Guys, the Vietnamese cafe scene might actually have Korea beat! I know , I’m shocked. There’s just so much coffee in this country, I wouldn’t be shocked if someone came out with a statistic that people purchased more iced coffees than water bottles here.

On one level, you’ve got your ca phe su dua stands where you can just walk up and get your iced coffee to go complete with a little carrier bag. Then you’ve got the more local places that are wide open and lots of people are just chilling and smoking from the low chairs and tables. Milano Coffee is basically a chain of this. Then you’ve got your wonderfully trendy cafes that just make my heart sing. I promise I’m working on some blog posts to give you specific recommendations (for now they live on my Instagram highlights!).

I know I drank way too much coffee here because my eye started twitching at different times and when I Googled why, I was told it could be from caffeine and a lack of sleep!

27. Learn more about Vietnam’s various ethnic minorities and religions

This recommendation may seem a bit odd as 85% of Vietnam is Vietnamese and 74% is atheist, but the country has a really interesting history with ethnic minorities and various religions! When it comes to ethnic minority tribes, you’ll find many of them in the mountains especially Mu Cang Chai, Sa Pa , and the Central Highlands. If you go trekking, the main thing to do is to meet with some tribes and learn more about their culture within Vietnam.

Religion-wise, Vietnam feels like temple central! Seriously, in Cho Lon , Saigon’s Chinatown, alone, you could spend all day visiting each Buddhist temple. There is also a small presence of Catholicism around the country, so you’ll still find some beautiful Indochine cathedrals and churches.

The coolest thing I learned about though, was Caodaism. It’s a religion wholly unique to Vietnam and its version of the Vatican is in Tay Ninh. Once you see its temple style once, you’ll recognize it when you see it throughout the country.

28. Explore Champa ruins

Once upon a time, central and south Vietnam were part of the Champa Kingdom. As in from the 100s AD to 1832! Today what’s left of their rule are the Chams, now an ethnic minority mainly in Cambodia and Vietnam, and some incredible archeological ruins. The most famous is Má»č SÆĄn near Hoi An, but you can find small ones throughout Vietnam like in Phan Thiet, Nha Trang, Binh Dinh, and more. Plus quite a few museums house some Champa artifacts like both the Fine Arts museums in Hanoi and Saigon!

29. Look for the remaining French influences in Vietnamese culture

French had control over Vietnam through the 1800s and early 1900s, and their presence is still felt throughout in the form of architecture and design. It’s kind of funny. I found Vietnam still loved the aesthetics of French colonial rule even though it’s, you know, related to French colonial rule.

You’ll see a lot of places use Indochine designs, and much of the French buildings are still standing and in use. Kind of like the people decided, “We don’t want your oppressive colonialism, but you guys did have good style, so we’ll keep that.”

30. Plan to hike or trek at least once

Even if you’re not a hiker, you’ve got to go at least once in Vietnam. The mountains are just too beautiful! The best places to do this are up in the ricefields of Sa Pa or Mu Cang Chai or the caves of Phong Nha. Of course, there are also various mountains you can do, but many of them have cable cars too, like Nui Ba Den (Black Virgin) and Fansipan.

31. Get to know Vietnam’s coast

If you look at a map of Vietnam, you’ll notice it has a lot of coastline. Ha Long Bay is the most famous area to visit and Da Nang is the best coastal city, but really there are a ton of towns and islands I hadn’t even heard of before I visited. Con Dao has my heart forever, and while I haven’t been to Phu Quoc yet, many of my friends love the resorts there (not so much the trash issue). For the Saigonese, Mui Ne and Phan Thiet are incredibly popular. I also loved Quy Nhon, especially staying at the Anantara there, and I have friends who stayed further south at Zannier Hotels BĂŁi San HĂŽ and loved it too.

Really, I’ve only scratched the surface of what there is to see along Vietnam’s coast, but I’ve seen enough to know you don’t want to skip out on it!

Bun Mam Co Ba, Vinh Long, Vietnam travel tips

What to Eat in Vietnam

30. the best vietnamese food is found on the sidewalks while you sweat over plastic chairs.

If there is one tip you take from all these Vietnam travel tips, this is the most important! Don’t get me wrong, there is a lot of fantastic fine dining in Vietnam. But if you want the most authentic and delicious versions of these dishes, you will find them outside on the sidewalks and buried in neighborhood markets. If they have an actual building, it’s open air and you’re still probably sitting on plastic chairs!

29. It’s good to know a few food terms

The one time I remember totally freezing up is when I first started venturing out to the random food stalls to look for lunch or dinner. Beyond pho and banh mi , I had no idea what to look for! Here are some good terms to know:

  • pho: the ultimate soup dish
  • bun : noodles
  • ga : chicken
  • thit : meat
  • banh mi: bread, but also a baguette sandwich
  • mam : fish sauce
  • nuong : fried
  • ngọt : sweet

Beginner’s Tip: If you’re in Saigon, I recommend going to Ben Thanh Market first or booking a food tour. The food market there is very used to foreigners, so they have photos on their stalls! And, of course, if you do a food tour they can help explain the dishes and terms in person.

24. Let’s talk about coffee for a minute

I know I went into the cafe scene above, but let’s talk about the coffee itself! Did you know Vietnam is the world’s second largest coffee exporter?! As you might guess, it was the French who introduced coffee to the country and began building plantations.

Today, coffee is truly a part of Vietnamese life. The most classic thing to get is a ca phe sua da, or iced milk coffee (it’s always listed as Vietnamese iced coffee in other countries). You fill a cup with ice and condensed milk, and then you drip your coffee over top. Mix and let the ice melt (easy to do in the tropics). When it’s melted just enough and your glass is sweating with condensation, that is the time to start drinking!

Of course, there are plenty of other variations, and in most trendy cafes you can get your classic lattes, cappuccinos, etc. But just once, while traveling sit down and get a nice big bowl of beef pho and an almost too-strong cup of ca phe sua da!

Variations: Some other variations of Vietnamese coffee to look for: cĂ  phĂȘ trứng (egg coffee), more popular in Hanoi; cĂ  phĂȘ muối (salt coffee) in Hue, and coconut coffee pretty much everywhere (start with the many Cong Caphes around the country).

31. More drinks to try in Vietnam

I actually have a whole list of Vietnamese drinks to try! There are a lot of cool fruit juices, regional beers, and more worth trying while you’re here. I’m quite partial to lychee iced tea and nuoc mia (sugarecane juice)!

31. How vegetarian and vegan friendly is Vietnam?

Actually, I’d say it’s easier to find vegan and vegetarian-friendly food in Vietnam than I remember it being in Korea, especially in the cities. In the countryside, you’re pretty much shit out of luck, but in the cities big and small, there are also some really good vegetarian options! Try looking to see if there are practicing Buddhist monasteries around too and if they have a restaurant as Buddhist monks are all vegetarian, I believe!

33. Is it easy to get takeout?

Takeout culture is a big thing in the cities here! It’s almost too good, and I admittedly got very lazy. The easiest thing to do is order via Grab (other apps exist but Grab is the most reliable). However, I also found that many restaurants were easily reachable via Facebook and could arrange their own delivery drivers, so I did that whenever possible.

BInh Hoa Phuoc River, Vinh Long, Vietnam

Safety and Sanitary Concerns

34. how safe is it to travel in vietnam.

Over all, Vietnam is fairly safe. The biggest thing you want to worry about is someone on a motorbike swiping your wallet or phone or motorbike accidents (which are pretty rare considering how hectic driving is here). Just keep your things close to your body and have a firm grip on your phone if you pull it out near the road. I always do this thing where I turn against a wall if I look at my phone so it’s harder for someone to come up and grab it.

35. Does Vietnam hate the US and France?

I know what you might be thinking. As an American or French person, should I be worried Vietnamese people will actually hate my guts? Shockingly… no. I remember a friend once saying the US had higher approval ratings amongst Vietnamese than Americans!

Actually, I’d say the one country Vietnam has the most animosity towards is China. It’s similar to Korea and Japan right down to an island dispute (theirs are the Spratly Islands).

36. How are the bathrooms?

Bathrooms range but over all aren’t too bad! I didn’t use them too often, but obviously the more Westernized restaurants and shopping centers have nice, clean ones. I would say the grossest ones are probably on the trains.

37. Wtf is a bum gun?

Guys, let me tell you about the bum gun. I’m mad at myself for not using them sooner but I was apprehensive! Korea bidets are attached to the toilet seat, so you literally just sit there and hit some buttons on the side. Wouldn’t a bum gun be kind of gross and get everywhere? Also how would I get my butt?

Ok, so fear not. All you have to do is open your legs wide and spray front to back. It doesn’t get on the back of the toilet lid and will get all your crevices. If you want to, you can use a little toilet paper to dry or just sort of squat and shake a bit before pulling your bottoms back up! Remember: if your dog pooped on your hand, would you use toilet paper to wipe it off or wash it in water?

39. How clean is Vietnam?

I’m not going to lie to you guys, Vietnam is definitely not the cleanest place I’ve been. Obviously the countryside areas are pretty nice, but the cities can get quite dirty. Recycling is nonexistent and littering is definitely a problem. There always seems to be construction going on, so there are sometimes sparks flying and just a pile of rubble for weeks on end. Sidewalks are nonexistent outside of District 1, and the air pollution is notoriously horrendous.

Chances are if you’re not living in the cities, you won’t notice it as much as a traveler. But it’s just something to be mindful of!

Metiseko silk dress

What to Buy for Souvenirs

40. anything related to coffee.

Back to coffee! But seriously coffee beans, drip coffee, the delicious instant coffee packets… Just know you can’t ship coffee beans!

41. Clothes that are tailor made

Vietnam is home to a ton of talented tailors especially in Hoi An! I’ve written about getting clothes tailored here . I was definitely spoiled while living there and had a ton of things custom-made and/or tailored. I already know when I go back, I’m going to have some more things made like suits and silk dresses! If you’re in HCMC, go to TuyetLan Orchids Tailor , and if you’re in Hoi An, go to Izi !

42. Any local boutiques and brands

There are some really cute brands that have sprung up in Vietnam. The ones I love the are Metiseko , Dynasty the Label , and Kilomet 109 !

43. Anything Vietnamese themed

I mean once you get here you’ll see all the cute Vietnam-themed souvenirs in the most random places. My favorite is this Obama bun cha magnet I found in a bookstore in Go Vap! I’ve also picked up some cute illustrated books and postcards and just a lot of cute things I can’t wait to decorate with.

Hanoi Train Street

Random Little Vietnam Travel Tips

44. really make sure the person knows what you’re asking.

So one slightly annoying thing I discovered is that Vietnamese people will say, “Yeah, yeah, okay” when they don’t know what you’re saying or they don’t know the answer. This will happen a lot in cafes and restaurants. They’re not actually confirming anything! I try to use my card as much as possible, so I’ll ask if card is okay, and without fail they’ll say “Yeah, yeah, it’s okay,” when it’s definitely not. So if you’re not sure, double and triple check, pull out Google Translate, or, in a credit card case, your actual card and make sure they’re actually saying yes. I remember one time I asked twice and then it was when I physically pulled out my card, they finally said “Oh no, cash only.”

45. There’s a bit of a culture difference between the north and south

I don’t know that I really noticed this on my first trip, but I do distinctly remember liking southern Vietnam way more than northern Vietnam. Most people I’ve talked to prefer the south as it has nicer weather year round and it’s a lot less conservative. For example, I just found out Hanoi still has a curfew left over from the wartime!

46. Is it Saigon or HCMC?

You know how a lot of places have changed names over the years? “So if you’ve a date in Constantinople, she’ll be waiting in Istanbul”? Well, Ho Chi Minh City is the same! Until 1976 when the Socialist Republic of Vietnam was established, HCMC was known as Saigon. Actually if you really want to get into it, there’s a whole article on this regions’ naming history.

So, what’s the “right” thing to call this city? Well, it depends ultimately who you’re talking to, but from my experience and asking local friends here, both are used interchangeably. Saigon obviously rolls off the tongue a lot easier than Ho Chi Minh City and it’s easier to call someone Saigonese, like you’d call someone Hanoian, than it is to say “Ho Chi Minhian” or “Ho chi Minhese” (don’t even think those are things).

On this blog, I use HCMC in my titles, etc but in my actual text I might go back and forth!

47. You’ll meet more than teachers!

I think it’s because I didn’t live in Seoul or Busan while in Korea, but I feel like all the expats I knew were there because they were on an E-2 teaching visa or married. However, in Saigon, I’ve met people doing all sorts of things. The entrepreneurial spirit is really alive here (both expat and Vietnamese) which I think gives the city a really fun energy. Seriously besides teachers I’ve met people who work in furniture manufacturing, alternative energy, ecotourism, fitness, fashion, export/import… the list goes on really! If you’ve got the same spirit, then I think Vietnam is a really cool place to be.

48. Animal welfare has a long way to go.

If you’re a sensitive animal lover, I’m going to warn you that Vietnam is going to be a hard country to enjoy. Animal welfare is improving, but it’s still not at a level you’d probably hope for. And it’s not unusual for dogs to get stolen, so you have to be REALLY diligent if you intend to adopt.

If you do want to get involved in helping out, there are animal volunteer groups! ARC Vietnam Animal Rescue & Care is a good place to start and, of course, fostering is always an option! Another great place doing a lot for animals is R House .

49. How communist is Vietnam?

Yes, Vietnam is communist and has been since the end of the war. It’s not something that I find affects day to day life too much, but I also don’t recommend going around with anti-communist books or questioning the government. And I really, really do not recommend shouting out anything inflammatory against Bac Ho unless you want to get make your embassy’s life a living nightmare!

50. Facebook group are key for finding friends and advice!

I’ve found Facebook groups to be incredible sources of information and just for finding a bit of community. When I first came, I joined Fexpats in HCMC , and it’s remained a great source. The Hanoi equivalent is, I believe, Hanoi is Beautiful, but I couldn’t find it last I checked. If you want to make friends or are confused about anything just search there or ask. Lots of women in there have been here for a few years at least and it’s very chill.

Other good groups I’m in include Vietnam is Awesome, Vietnam Creative Circle, and [VN Legal] Vietnamese Legal!

And that’s all the Vietnam travel tips I have you for you! Let me know if you have questions or comments below!

For more Vietnam travel, read these posts next:

General vietnam.

  • How to Plan a Trip to Vietnam
  • 22 Photos to Inspire You to Visit Vietnam
  • How to Plan the Ultimate Leaving Vietnam Trip

Northern Vietnam

  • The Best Things to Do in Hanoi
  • What to Do in Halong Bay + Travel Tips
  • Hanoi to Halong Bay: How to Get There
  • A Day Cruise Along Halong Bay
  • Mu Cang Chai Travel Tips
  • A Secluded Sapa Itinerary
  • Hiking & Herbal Baths with the Red Dzao

Central Vietnam

  • Historical Things to Do in Hue: Ultimate Guide
  • Hue in One Day: A Speedy Itinerary
  • Azerai La Residence Hue Review: A Luxury Stay
  • A Semi-Relaxing Phong Nha Travel Itinerary
  • Quirkiest Things to Do in Dalat
  • How to Visit Yok Don National Park
  • Top Things to Do in Hoi An
  • How to Spend 3 Days in Hoi An
  • Hoi An Tailors: Tips for What to Get Made
  • The Vietage: A Luxury Train in Vietnam
  • Anantara Quy Nhon Villas: A Luxury Review

Southern Vietnam

  • Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City: A Bucket List
  • A Guide to 15B Hem Le Than Thon: Little Japan Saigon
  • Where to Go in District 5 & Cho Lon of Saigon
  • Best Things to Do in District 1, HCMC
  • What to Do in Mui Ne and Phan Thiet
  • Anantara Mui Ne: Best Resort for a Girls’ Getaway
  • Mekong Delta Day Trip: What to Expect
  • A Guide to Vinh Long in the Mekong
  • Con Dao: An Island Travel Guide
  • Azerai Can Tho: A Luxury Stay in the Mekong
  • Odys Boutique Hotel Review: A Chic Mid-Range Stay in HCMC

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20 Things to Know Before you Travel to Vietnam

travelling to vietnam tips

Vietnam isn’t always topping the bucketlist of the southeast Asia traveler. With Thailand, Cambodia and Laos in its back garden and the beautiful islands of the Philippines just offshore there is fierce competition. However, traveling to Vietnam is beautiful in its own and has a lot to offer. With this Vietnam travel blog I am giving you 20 essential things you need to know before your trip and that help you enjoying this beautiful country even more.

My first trip to Vietnam I took in 2008 as part of my trip around the world. Unfortunately it was my second last country before flying back home after 12 months on the road and I only had two weeks. That time I traveled from Cambodia to Ho Chi Minh City and via the Mekong Delta up to the DMZ where I crossed into Laos. In 2013 I came back to explore the Northern regions and in 2017 and 2018 I was in Ho Chi Minh City and Quang Binh. 

As you can see I love to travel to Vietnam. In total I have now been 4 times, but whenever I get the chance I will be back again. I am sure with my experience I am able to give you some vital Vietnam travel tips that will be of good use on your next journey.

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Here are Traveltomtom's 20 essential Vietnam travel tips to make sure you have an amazing trip to Vietnam.

1. Is it safe to travel to Vietnam

Generally spoken one should not have any problems when visiting Vietnam. The most common threats are road accidents, theft and in a rare occasion snatch and grab. Just always make sure to use common sense. This sounds really obvious but I have seen so many ignorant tourists in those 7 years I’m now traveling around the world.

2. Do you need vaccinations for Vietnam

There is no direct need for you to get vaccinations when you visit Vietnam. I have never taken any particular medication for any trip to Vietnam. It is adviced you have the standard childhood diseases shots. Shots against Hepatitis A and B are recommended to have, but aren't needed necessarily. Malaria occurs in Vietnam but very rarely. I have never taken any malaria pills and I have been trekking in the countryside. Some people do, some people don’t, but I have never heard someone catching malaria when traveling to Vietnam.

3. What is the best time of the year to visit Vietnam

For a lot of countries in Southeast Asia it is hard to determine, but the best time of year to travel to Vietnam is easy: March and April. Spring gets the least amount of rain and has moderate temperatures. The rainy season in Vietnam lasts from May to October. Mind you that especially the North of Vietnam has distinct summer and winter seasons. Snowfall in Hanoi is very rare, but it has happened before. If you decide to go for a trekking in Sapa, one of the best things to do in Vietnam, then beware that December, January and February it can be really cold. When you visit South Vietnam there is no need to bring warm clothes as the lowest average temperature in Ho Chi Minh is in December: 27 C / 81 F.

4. Do you need a visa to travel to Vietnam

The visa requirements for Vietnam are getting easier with the years. I remember my first time I had to drop my passport at the embassy for 3 days in Cambodia. In 2013 I already used the visa on arrival and nowadays a tourist visa for Vietnam can easily be obtained online.

Most countries still need a visa though, this in contrast with other southeast asian countries like: Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, Indonesia where you can enter visa free.

5. How much does a Vietnam trip cost

You can make it as expensive as you wish. There are fancy nightclubs in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh where a cocktail can easily cost $20, but you can also go local. For your backpacking Vietnam trip you should count on $40 per day, which makes you stay in hostels, eat local food, rent scooters, do sightseeing trip and small tours. When you travel to Vietnam as a couple you can count the same ($40 per person per day), a mid-range hotel is not much more expensive than $30 a night, food in a little upscale restaurant is about $10 and private tours will cost you about $25 per person per day. In many Vietnam blogs I read that you need a minimum of $50 a day, but with that money you can live large.

6. History of Vietnam is rough

You won’t be able to refrain yourself from being fascinated by Vietnam’s long and interesting history even if you’re not a history buff. It is one of the oldest cultures in Southeast Asia dating back to 2000 BC and ever since it has been influenced by many others: Chinese, Khmer, Indian, Japanese and also Western.

Because of colonization, war eventually rummaged the country, a series of very tragical events in history which are still in the minds of many Vietnamese. For them however, it is much more than a war. Their nation’s efforts and determination enabled them to defeat the French and make the Americans retreat and finally become one country.

The country is filled with educational sites for you to learn more about these historic events, the Vietnam war, and even its aftermath. In fact, each city has monuments and museums that showcase the country’s deep-seated history.

7. War related tourist places in Vietnam

War remnants museum hcmc.

In Saigon one can visit both the emotion-inducing War Remnants Museum and the Independence Palace. The palace is also known as Reunification Palace, which is a national historical and cultural relic to the Vietnam War. I am pretty sure the War Remnants Museum makes you speechless. In 2018 I came back here 9 years after my first visit and I walked around for almost 2 hours, reading every photo subscription. These places always give me goosebumps! When traveling to Vietnam definitely put this on your list of places to visit.

Cu Chi Tunnels

Go to the outskirts of Saigon to have an insider look of the tunnel life at the Cu Chi Tunnels, a vast network of tunnels built by the Viet Cong to protect themselves against the invading Americans. The tunnels are considered to have made a great contribution to the victory of the Vietnamese.

Those who aren’t claustrophobic may try crawling some small sections of the tunnel network. With my 1.86 meters I can tell you it is a punishment! Visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels is great to learn about the Vietnam War and one of the most interesting places to visit in Vietnam.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

In Hanoi, you can visit Ba Dinh Square, the largest square in Vietnam where many important national historical events in Vietnam’s modern history took place. Get to know more of the ‘Father of Vietnam’: Mr. Ho Chi Minh himself at the Ho Chi Minh Museum, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the Ho Chi Minh Stilt House. Whatever you do, when traveling to Vietnam always be respectful to their history and past leaders!

Hoa Lo Prison

In Hanoi you can also find the former Hoa Lo Prison, which translates to ‘fiery furnace’. Nowadays it is a museum which depicts what the Vietnamese prisoners had to go through during the time the French were ruling in Vietnam. A special section has been designated for the prisoners of war during the Vietnam war.

All the sites mentioned above are super interesting and made a deep impression on me. Even if history is not your reason to visit Vietnam, these place offer important lessons for understanding the todays culture of the Vietnamese people.

8. Hanoi is the best place to visit in Vietnam

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The streets of Old Town Hanoi made me fall in love with this country even more. It was only on my second trip to Vietnam that I ended up in the capital city. The cosy, but extremely bustling streets of Hanoi always remind me why I love traveling in Southeast Asia so much. It sounds simple but going out at night in Old Town Hanoi is one of the best things to do in Vietnam.

May be it was because of the super cheap Beer Hoi, which costs only like $0,20 per pint sometimes. Not the best beer in the world, but drinking Beer Hoi is something you must try when you visit Vietnam. Fun guaranteed!

When you want to soak up ancient village life then visit Duong Lam in Hanoi. It has the basic features of a Northern traditional Vietnamese village which are water wharves, communal grounds, and pagodas scattered with banyan trees. You will continue to feel being stuck in the past. French colonial architecture, pavement cafes, and wide tree-lined boulevards are what makes this place old-fashioned.

9. Ho Chi Minh City is very modern

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Unfortunately I have been more times to Ho Chi Minh City than to Hanoi, because although I like Ho Chi Minh City I am much more a fan of Hanoi. So if you visit Vietnam and you have to choose between both of them I would say go North and skip Ho Chi Minh City. Nevertheless I always had a great time in this crazy big city where modern life meets the local lifestyle. From Ho Chi Minh it is easy to organize trips into the Mekong Delta.

10. Visiting Hoi An is the best thing to do in Vietnam

Despite the damage caused due to Vietnams turbulent past, many ancient structures managed to remain intact. Take Hoi An Old Town, one of the best places to visit in Vietnam for instance. This ancient riverside trading town with well-preserved buildings and temples that date back to the 17th century is where Chinese merchants settled at first. Today, the descendants of the Chinese merchants continue to sell their products. Hoi An is lit up at night by multiple colorful lanterns in the streets. Loads of backpackers tend to get stuck here and great thing is that the beach is just 10 minutes away on a bicycle.

Make your way towards the My Son Temple Complex a great day trip from Hoi An. My Son, which means ‘beautiful mountain’ got mostly destroyed during the American bombings in the Vietnam War. It is still worth going because some temples survived the bombing and are well-preserved. The complex used to be a place of worship by the Champa people and was built between the 4th and 13th centuries. Visiting My Son is one of the best Vietnam travel tips I found among Vietnam blogs.

11. Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park for the largest cave in the world

You will surely be impressed by Vietnams natural wonders. Vietnam is for example home to the biggest cave in the world - the Son Doong cave located at the heart of Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park . It can be explored through a cave expedition, but only with an official tour operator. In 2018 I visited the Quang Binh Province and some of the caves, it is among my highlights of Vietnam.

When looking for cool things to do in Vietnam then think about caving in this national park, so worth it. For me it was one of the highlights visiting Vietnam.

12. Visiting Halong Bay is mind blowing

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When around no one should miss Halong Bay, one of the natural world wonders. There are about 1,600 limestone islands and islets dotted around emerald waters, an absolute must see when you travel to Vietnam. There are even charming deserted islands and beaches where you can stay overnight or go multi day cruising on an old wooden ship. The Halong Bay area is obviously one of the best places to see in Vietnam.

13. The Sapa Rice Fields are Magical

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Leisure travelers may opt to trek the mountainous Sapa region close to the Chinese border. Although the terraced rice fields are man-made, the natural surroundings make the experience wonderful. An opportunity to experience living like a local is possible with the local ethnic tribes offering homestay accommodation to willing guests. Trust me when you travel to Vietnam this is a must do. On my second Vietnam trip I did this for 3 days and absolutely loved it. During the day you trek through the rice fields up and down on the rim of these terraces and through the woods. We stayed overnight in local homes. Help them preparing dinner at night (free cooking classes), cool off in the river, learn about their culture and drink rice wine (very strong clear shot) till you fall of your chair. This experience is one of the best value for money tours in Vietnam and so much fun. I always wanted to write a separate Vietnam travel blog about this, but it was already in 2013 when I did this.

14. Festivals in Vietnam

While holding religious significance and imbibed with tradition, festivals in Vietnam provide an authentic Vietnam experience. Vietnamese know how to party, trust me I have experienced it many times. Their hospitality is enormous, especially when they are drunk and not that shy anymore! :)

Vietnamese New Year

The most important festival in Vietnam is the Tet Nguyen Dan or Lunar New Year as a result of a country with Buddhism as the predominant religion. Equivalent to the Chinese new year, Vietnamese welcome the new year by creating noise whether its simple beating of drums, lighting firecrackers or prodding dogs to bark. The morning is characterised with honoring ancestors, visiting temples and handing out flowers as part of the ritual. Meanwhile, evenings get really crazy because of all the celebrations and of course alcohol. Vietnamese New Year is always somewhere around end of January or the beginning of February.

Hue Festival

Unfortunately I have never experienced this festival myself but I have heard so much about it that it is on my list of things to do in Vietnam. If you love the arts, head to Hue City, the capital of Thua Thien Hue province in Central Vietnam. It is the only place where the Hue Festival is celebrated every two years. The traditional customs practiced during the Nguyen dynasty are relived through different showcases and activities. Expect street performances, film screenings, art exhibitions, Ao Dai Fashion Shows, Hue Poetry Festival, and Dialogue of Drums and Percussions. For sporting activities, there is kite flying, boat racing, and human chess.

Hoi An Lantern Festival

vietnam travel blog 3

This festival attracts a large number of visitors and is a very popular festival among Vietnamese and tourists. Every 14th day of the lunar month whereby it is the full moon, every establishment in the Ancient Town turns off all their lights. They utilize multi-colored lanterns lit with candles for illumination and are also placed on the river for well wishing. You may opt to see lanterns on the water from the riverbank or organise a local boat ride. Trust me when you are around this is one of the better Vietnam travel tips I got along my travels. You will love it!

You can freely and safely wander the streets of Hoi An that bask in a magical glow because this day any motorised vehicles are banned. The streets are filled with musicians playing traditional instruments like drums, fiddles, and bamboo flutes. Other activities that you can enjoy include lantern-making classes, Chinese chess, and poetry readings. This festival is one big happening and among the best things to do in Vietnam.

15. Water puppet is a Vietnamese tradition

Vietnam has a fascinating fusion of culture from its occupants and colonizers. However, age-old customs still prevail. One of them is the water puppetry that dates back to the 11th century. It features skilful manipulation of the puppets by the puppeteers hidden from the audience. Performed on a waist-deep pool, the puppets appear to be moving on the water by themselves. The stories are usually about everyday lives, ancient legends, and historical stories so it isn’t for mere entertainment. What further makes the show interesting is the reliance on live background music. There are many Water Puppet Theaters around the country, but the ones in Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi are the most suitable for tourists.

I have been to the one in Ho Chi Minh city and it was such a cool things to see that I wanted to include it in this Vietnam travel blog.

16. Silk paintings is traditional art 

Another traditional art performance worth admiring is silk painting. Which is the creation of a painting on a piece of silk cloth. Watercolor, ink, or dye are utilized for vibrant colors and creating simple subjects which are often a portrayal of beautiful natural landscapes or rural life. It is important to note that this painting  style calls for meticulousness because a wrong brush stroke can’t be erased. Silk paintings can be purchased in one of the many fine art galleries and shops located in Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi.

17. Floating markets also exist in Vietnam

Local floating markets are among my favorite places to visit in Vietnam. They date back to the reign of the 19th century Nguyen Dynasty and contribute to the uniqueness of Vietnams culture. It reflects the way of life and is a source of livelihood for those who live in the Mekong Delta. Sellers basically sell their goods by boat. The most popular floating market due to its close proximity to Ho Chi Minh City, convenience to get to this place, and scale is the Cai Rang market. It is a wholesale market for fresh fruits. You can try out exotic fruits here like Vinh Long pink kiwi kumquat. Make sure to go here early in the morning not only to see a beautiful sunrise on the way but also to have a typical breakfast on one of the many boats.

18. Vietnamese cuisine is a must try

vietnam travel blog 4

Most people, when they hear Vietnamese food, the first thought that pops into their mind is Pho, a soup broth dish with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and meat. But there is more to Vietnamese food than what you might expect. I had the honor to dine with Australia’s Masterchef Luke Nguyen, who is originally from Ho Chi Minh City. Trying his exceptional creations was outstanding.

The common denominator among the regional cuisines is the main use of rice and fish sauce in most dishes. Expect to see a form of rice on almost all meals especially that Vietnam is the second largest rice exporter in the world. They have rice noodles, rice porridge, fried rice, sticky rice, and even rice wine as I told you before. Fish sauce, on the other hand, is used in almost any kind of dish from salad dressings to soup broths. In fact, their national condiment is also made of fish sauce that is diluted with a splash of lime juice, sugar, garlic, and chilies.

As for regional differences in cuisines, food in Northern Vietnam tend to be less spicy because they prefer using black pepper instead of chilli. Dishes famous in the Northern region are Bun Cha, Pho, and Thang Rice Noodle. 

Southern Vietnamese cuisine is more flavourful and aromatic because of the liberal use of herbs and spices in cooking (yes I learned this all from Luke Nguyen). Popular dishes in the Southern region are Long Xuyen Raw Neem, My Tho Noodles, and Mam Hotpot. 

For food in Central Vietnam, mixtures of spicy flavors characterize the dishes. You will find Nem Lui, Khoai Cake, Banh Beo, and Hue Beef Vermicelli delicious. 

There is also French influence in Vietnamese cuisine which is particularly seen on Bah Mi, a sandwich in the form of a crusty French baguette. The filling of it depends on where you buy it, but shredded chicken with a fish sauce is common street food in Vietnam.

When you visit Vietnam don’t miss the opportunity to indulge yourself on street food. The street food scene is lively as ever and single-dish stalls serving a dish with a recipe passed down through the generations. The variety of dishes sold are numerous so there is something for everyone.

19. Vietnamese coffee is world class

After I did my barista course when living in Sydney I am very picky on coffee. But on your Vietnam trip you should try traditional coffee. Vietnamese coffee is often sweetened by condensed milk so if that is not your thing warn them up front. Their black coffee is strong, but very tasty. A good way to wake up and start your day full of adventures. Vietnam, after all, is the second largest coffee producer in the world.

20. Vietnam is for every budget

vietnam travel blog 9

The affordable cost on major travel expenses such as accommodation, public transport, and the food is also a reason that makes traveling to Vietnam so appealing. Therefore, if you have a higher budget for your trip to Vietnam, you can easily have a fabulous luxury experience. Luxurious 5-star hotels are very affordable in this country. 

No matter what type of accommodation you choose to stay at, traveling to Vietnam allows you to stretch your budget farther and leaves more room for a more enjoyable tours.

Overall, with all the Vietnam travel tips, reasons to go, things to do and places to see I hope this blog was helpful for your upcoming trip to Vietnam. Let me know if you have any more questions about traveling to Vietnam and I am more than happy to help. Leave me a comment below.

Thanks for keeping up with Traveltomtom and if this blog has helped you, please consider helping me in return by sharing the link of this blog on social media or anywhere else on the internet. Every tweet, pin, or share on Facebook is very much appreciated.

Enjoy your trip to Vietnam!

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Top Tips for Travelling in Vietnam

A girl in a floating market, Vietnam. One of the many memorable sights you can experience in September.

With its vibrant cities, natural wonders, and rich cultural heritage, Vietnam offers an exhilarating and unforgettable travel experience. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the majestic beauty of Halong Bay, the timeless charm of Hoi An, and the imperial grandeur of Hue, each destination has its own unique allure.

What to expect vietnam.

Prepare to be captivated by the mesmerizing beauty and rich cultural heritage of Vietnam as we embark on an exhilarating adventure through the vibrant cities of Hanoi and Hue, the breathtaking Halong Bay, and the charming town of Hoi An. By following these insider Vietnam travel tips, you can fully immerse yourself in the magic of this extraordinary country, creating memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, embark on this exciting adventure, and let Vietnam’s beauty and hospitality sweep you off your feet.

travelling to vietnam tips

Unforgettable destinations: tips for vising Vietnam

Start your Vietnam journey in the lively streets of Hanoi, where centuries-old temples, French colonial architecture, and vibrant markets coexist harmoniously. Explore the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake, wander through the bustling Old Quarter, and indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Vietnamese street food. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the city by visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature.

Halong Bay: A Natural Wonder and Unesco World Heritage Site

Journey to the awe-inspiring Halong Bay, where towering limestone karsts rise dramatically from the emerald waters. Cruise through this Unesco World Heritage site, exploring hidden caves, kayaking in tranquil waters, and witnessing breathtaking sunsets. Choose a reputable tour operator – like Culture Trip! – that prioritizes sustainable tourism practices to ensure a responsible and unforgettable experience.

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Hoi An: A Quaint Town Filled with Timeless Beauty

Step back in time as you arrive in the enchanting town of Hoi An, renowned for its well-preserved ancient architecture and lantern-lined streets. Explore the Unesco-listed Old Town, with its charming shops, atmospheric temples, and vibrant markets. Indulge in custom-tailored clothing, learn to make traditional lanterns, and savor the flavors of local cuisine at bustling riverside restaurants.

Hue: Discovering Imperial Grandeur and Cultural Richness

Continue your Vietnamese odyssey to the historic city of Hue, once the imperial capital of Vietnam. Uncover the country’s royal past as you explore the magnificent Imperial City, the Forbidden Purple City, and the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda. Embark on a serene boat ride along the Perfume River, immersing yourself in the tranquil surroundings and absorbing the rich cultural heritage of this Unesco World Heritage site.

travelling to vietnam tips

Indulge in culture and cuisine

Vietnamese cuisine and culture intertwine seamlessly, creating a sensory experience that is both vibrant and diverse. Known for its fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and meticulous presentation, Vietnamese food is a true culinary delight. From the iconic pho noodle soup to the flavorful banh mi sandwiches, every dish showcases a harmonious balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy.

The culture in Vietnam is deeply rooted in traditions and values that revolve around family, respect, and community. Vietnamese people are warm, and friendly and take immense pride in their heritage. Traditional customs such as the Tet Lunar New Year celebration and the worship of ancestors highlight the importance of family ties.

Embrace the vibrant street food scene in Vietnam but choose clean and hygienic vendors. Follow the locals’ lead and sample delicious pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls.

Vietnam travel tips: insider advice for a safe trip

Ensure you have the necessary visa or pre-arranged visa approval letter before arriving in Vietnam. Check the latest requirements.

Vietnam’s climate varies throughout the country. Research the weather patterns of each destination to pack appropriate clothing. Familiarize yourself with Vietnamese customs and traditions.

Dress modestly when visiting temples or religious sites, and always ask for permission before taking someone’s photograph.

Get around like a local by using cyclos, motorbike taxis (xe om), or ride-hailing services. Negotiate prices beforehand and ensure your safety by wearing helmets when riding motorbikes.

Hone your bargaining skills when shopping in markets or street stalls. Remember to be friendly but firm, and always negotiate with a smile.

A Vibrant Vietnamese adventure with Culture Trip

When it comes to truly experiencing Vietnam, there’s no better way than traveling with Culture Trip. As a Culture Tripper, you’ll uncover hidden gems and discover a side of this incredible country that you never knew existed. We go beyond the well-known attractions, taking you off the beaten path to unveil the secrets of Vietnams’s lesser-known wonders.

Our mission is to bring you closer to the heart of this beautiful country, connecting you with the locals, their traditions, and their delectable cuisine. Whether it’s savoring authentic meals or immersing yourself in the expertise of our Local Insider , who possesses a lifetime of firsthand experiences, we ensure you have a truly immersive journey.

Rest easy knowing that your accommodations, domestic travel, and meticulously planned activities are all taken care of. With a well-crafted itinerary designed by our seasoned Travel Experts, you’ll also have plenty of free time to explore at your own pace. Say goodbye to unexpected expenses as we provide clarity on your budget, allowing you to indulge in local treats and pick up souvenirs along the way.

Vibing Vietnam? Book your spot today on our exciting twelve-day adventure in Southeast Asia.

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Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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68 Tips for Travelling Vietnam for First Timers [2024]

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Are you planning your next travel adventure and looking for tips for travelling Vietnam? These valuable travel tips are ideal for those visiting Vietnam for the first time, AND the more experienced Vietnam travellers may also learn something new!

Vietnam, in South East Asia , is a country brimming with captivating landscapes, rich culture, and a fascinating history. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the enchanting lantern-lit alleys of Hoi An, every corner of Vietnam offers something unique and awe-inspiring. Whether you’re exploring the ancient temples in Hue or cruising through the breath taking Ha Long Bay, there’s no shortage of beauty to discover.

But it’s not just about the picturesque scenery; Vietnam is also renowned for its warm hospitality and friendly locals. You’ll be greeted with a heartfelt “hello” or “lĂ m ÆĄn” (please) wherever you go. And don’t worry if language barriers arise – Google Translate can be your trusty companion or local websites can come in handy.

To make the most of your time in Vietnam, we’ll share practical tips on the best time to visit Vietnam, must do experiences, and other practical advice on safety, money matters, and how to get around. So get ready for an adventure that will leave you craving for more!

Planning your trip to Vietnam last minute?

Below are some of the top tours, hotels and more! Don’t forget to plan ahead when visiting Vietnam and nearby!

TOP ACTIVITIES AND TOURS IN VIETNAM: 1. HALONG BAY CRUISE (#1 selling Vietnam tour!) 2. MEKONG DELTA (another top-seller!) 3. CU CHI TUNNELS IN HCMC (great for history lovers!) 4. VIETNAMESE COOKING CLASS (for the foodies!) 5. HANOI STREET FOOD TOUR (come hungry!)

TOP HOTELS IN VIETNAM : 1. L A SIESTA CONTRAL HOTEL & SPA IN HANOI (we stayed here and recommend it!) 2. LYS HOMESTAY IN NINH BINH (we also stayed here – recommended for budget travellers!) 3. I NTERCONTINENTAL DANANG SUN PENINSULA RESORT (great for a splurge!)

Our Top Tips for Travelling Vietnam

We have spent more than 6 months in Vietnam over the last 6 years, and each time we visit, we learn something new. Having a solid understanding of the essential travelling to Vietnam tips and information needed for a successful trip to this enchanting country will make your trip all the more enjoyable!

General Vietnam Travel Planning Tips

Planning a trip to Vietnam? Here are some general travel planning tips to help you make the most of your experience.

1. Arrange Your Visa Before Arriving in Vietnam

top tip for travelling in vietnam- copy of evisa for vietnam which you must organise prior to arriving

Travelling to Vietnam is an exciting adventure, but before you embark on your journey, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the visa requirements. Applying for a visa can seem like a daunting task, but fear not! Our step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of obtaining a single-entry E-visa for Vietnam, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Step 1: Determine the type of visa you need

For most tourists visiting Vietnam, a single-entry tourist visa will suffice. This allows you to enter the country once and stay for up to 90 days. However, a multi-entry tourist visa is also available for an additional cost.

Step 2: Check the Entry Requirements

Before applying for a visa, ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Vietnam.

You may also need proof of onward travel (this was requested at check-in for our flight form Singapore) and sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay.

Step 3: Gather the Required Documents

  • A scanned copy of your passport bio page/s (high resolution).
  • A recent passport-sized (4 x 6) photograph with a white background (high resolution).
  • Credit card details for payment.

Step 4: Complete the Online Application Form

Visit the official website for Vietnam E-visa.

Fill out the online application form accurately and truthfully. (N.B. Be sure to include both your First and Middle Names and D.O.B. in the requested format.)

Step 5: Check Your Email

After application form has been submitted, a registration code will be emailed to the applicant. Follow the link in this email to complete payment.

Step 6: Pay the Visa fee

Make payment using either credit card or PayPal. The cost is $25 / single-entry E-visa or $50 / multiple-entry E-visa.

Step 7: Wait for Processing

After submitting your application and making payment, you will receive an acknowledgment email with a registration code. Enter registration code, registration email and date of birth to check result in E-visa search menu .

The processing time for a single-entry E-visa is typically 3 to 5 working days, but it may vary. We recommend doing 3 – 4 weeks prior to your arrival date to ensure you have enough time in case there are any problems.

Once approved, print E-visa to enter / exit Vietnam and keep it with you throughout your journey to Vietnam.

If you have any questions throughout the process, we posted on the Vietnam Visa Advice Facebook Group and found this group great for sharing and solving problems.

2. Check the Weather in Vietnam for When and Where You Want to Visit

One of the key factors to consider is choosing the right season to visit Vietnam. With its diverse climate patterns and enchanting festivals like Tet (Vietnamese New Year), understanding the weather conditions and cultural celebrations can greatly enhance your travel experience.

Vietnam boasts a wide range of climates throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for travellers year-round. It is important to note that the weather can vary greatly from north to south.

The Dry Season is a great time for those keen on exploring Vietnam’s natural wonders and iconic landmarks. From November to April , most parts of the country experience less rainfall and more sunshine, creating optimal sightseeing opportunities. The dry season also offers pleasant temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F – 86°F) , providing comfortable conditions for outdoor activities.

The Wet Season ( May to October ) may deter some from visiting due to concerns about rainstorms. Temperatures can range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), and humidity levels can be quite high. It is advisable to stay hydrated, and to pack lightweight and breathable clothing, as well as a rain jacket or umbrella to be prepared for the occasional downpour. If you enjoy lush green landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower prices, then embracing Vietnam’s wet season might just be perfect for you.

The rainy months bring life back into nature as forests flourish with vibrant colours and waterfalls cascade gracefully down mountainsides. The countryside becomes a picturesque paradise, and the rice terraces in Sapa transform into a breath-taking mosaic of emerald hues.

3. Check For Vietnamese Festivals / Events / School Holidays

No discussion about visiting Vietnam would be complete without mentioning Tet , the Vietnamese New Year . The exact date of Tet varies each year according to the lunar calendar, but it typically falls between late January and mid-February .

The celebration lasts for several days, and it is a time when families come together to honour their ancestors and welcome the upcoming year with joyous festivities. The streets are adorned with vibrant decorations, and there are parades, fireworks, and traditional performances throughout the country. Tet is considered the most important holiday in Vietnam, and it is a wonderful time to visit and experience the rich cultural traditions of the country.

During Tet, other Public Holidays and Vietnamese school holiday periods (Spring break is from June to August), expect a large number of locals to be travelling domestically. Accommodation will need to be booked well in advance and expect to pay higher prices.

4. Flying is Best Between Cities

The most popular choice for travelling between major cities in Vietnam is by air. With a well-established network of airports across the country, flying allows you to save time and cover long distances quickly. Whether you’re hopping from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City or venturing off the beaten path to destinations like Da Nang or Nha Trang, domestic flights provide a convenient and efficient way to reach your desired location.

5. Pre-Book Your Airport Transfer

To ensure seamless travel arrangements upon arrival in Vietnam, it’s advisable to pre-book airport transfers. This not only saves you the stress of finding transportation upon landing but also eliminates any language barriers or negotiation struggles that may arise.

Most hotels will offer their own transfer services, and we generally find them to be the best priced as well. By arranging an airport transfer in advance, you can rest assured that a reliable driver will be waiting for you at the arrivals gate, ready to whisk you away to your accommodation.

Top Tip: When travelling between cities that can be driven to, always check if the hotel at your next destination offers a transfer service. We did this for a trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, and our hotel in Ninh Binh priced the transfer in a private car for cheaper than we could buy bus tickets.

6. Use Grab, Not Taxis

Grab is a ride-hailing service that operates in major cities across Vietnam. Similar to other popular ride-sharing platforms, Grab allows you to book a taxi or motorbike taxi with ease using their user-friendly mobile app . With competitive pricing and reliable drivers, Grab provides a safe and convenient way to travel short distances within the city, especially if you’re not comfortable riding a motorbike yourself.

7. Sleeper Buses vs Sleeper Trains in Vietnam

an overnight bus in vietnam waiting for passengers

When it comes to traveling long distances in Vietnam, there are two popular options for overnight journeys: sleeper buses and sleeper trains. Both modes of transportation have their advantages and disadvantages, so it ultimately depends on personal preference and priorities.

Sleeper buses in Vietnam are a common choice for budget travellers. They are relatively cheap and widely available , making them accessible to a wide range of tourists. These buses typically have reclining seats that can be adjusted to a nearly horizontal position, allowing passengers to rest comfortably during the journey. However, it’s important to note that the quality of sleeper buses can vary significantly. Some buses may be old and poorly maintained, which can lead to discomfort and a less pleasant experience.

One advantage of sleeper buses is their flexibility in terms of routes and schedules . They operate on a wider network, allowing travellers to reach destinations that may not be accessible by train. Buses also tend to have more frequent departures, providing more options for travellers who prefer a specific time of departure or arrival.

On the other hand, sleeper trains offer a more traditional and nostalgic way of travelling. They provide a unique experience that allows passengers to enjoy the scenic views of the Vietnamese countryside while comfortably lying in a bed. Sleeper trains often have more spacious compartments compared to sleeper buses, providing a sense of privacy and tranquillity during the journey. Additionally, trains tend to be more stable and less affected by road conditions, resulting in a smoother ride.

Sleeper trains are known for their reliability and punctuality . They adhere to a fixed schedule, which can be beneficial for travellers who prefer a more structured itinerary. Trains also have the advantage of offering onboard amenities such as dining cars and toilets, which can add to the overall comfort and convenience of the journey.

In terms of safety, both sleeper buses and trains in Vietnam have their own risks. It’s important to choose reputable companies and operators to ensure a safer journey. Additionally, it’s advisable to secure personal belongings and be cautious of pickpockets.

8. Vietnam by Motorbike

Riding a motorbike in Vietnam can be an exhilarating and adventurous experience. However, it is important to be aware of the rules and safety issues to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Here are some key rules and safety tips to consider when deciding on riding a motorbike in Vietnam:

  • Licensing : It is mandatory to have a valid Vietnamese motorbike license to ride legally in Vietnam. International driving permits are not recognized, so you will need to obtain a local license. This can be done by visiting the Department of Transport in the city where you are staying. N.B. If you have an accident while riding a motorbike in Vietnam and you do not have a Vietnamese license, your insurance may not cover you.
  • Wear a Helmet : Helmets are compulsory in Vietnam for both drivers and passengers. Make sure to wear a good quality helmet that fits properly to protect your head in case of an accident.
  • Follow Traffic Rules : Observe and follow the traffic rules and regulations of Vietnam. This includes obeying traffic signals, using indicators while turning, and not exceeding the speed limits. Be cautious of other vehicles on the road and anticipate their movements.
  • Defensive Driving : Vietnam’s roads can be chaotic and congested, so it is important to practice defensive driving. Stay alert, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and be prepared for unexpected manoeuvres from other road users.
  • Be Visible : Make yourself visible to other drivers by wearing bright-coloured clothing and using reflective stickers on your motorbike. This will help increase your visibility, especially during low-light conditions.
  • Be Cautious of Road Conditions : Vietnam’s roads can vary in quality, from well-maintained highways to pothole-ridden rural roads. Be cautious of road conditions and adjust your speed accordingly. Watch out for obstacles such as animals, pedestrians, and uneven surfaces.
  • Avoid Riding at Night : It is advisable to avoid riding at night, especially in rural areas where visibility can be poor and there may be a lack of street lighting. If you must ride at night, ensure that your motorbike has proper headlights and taillights.
  • Insurance : Consider purchasing travel insurance just in case!

9. Where to Stay in Vietnam

Finding the perfect place to stay is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Luckily, this beautiful country offers a wide range of accommodation options that cater to different preferences and budgets. Whether you’re looking for luxury resorts, charming boutique hotels, authentic homestays, or budget-friendly hostels, Vietnam has it all.

Luxury Resorts : One example is the InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort located in Da Nang. This award-winning resort offers breath-taking views of the Son Tra Peninsula and provides guests with exclusive access to private beaches. With its world-class spa facilities and Michelin-starred restaurants, this resort promises an unforgettable stay.

Boutique Hotels : In Hanoi’s Old Quarter, you’ll find gems like La Siesta Central Hotel & Spa . This boutique hotel seamlessly blends traditional Vietnamese aesthetics with modern comforts. Its prime location allows guests to explore the vibrant streets of the Old Quarter easily.

Homestays : In Hoi An, one popular homestay option is Lantana Hoi An Boutique Hotel & Spa . This charming property showcases the region’s architectural heritage and provides guests with a warm and welcoming environment. You’ll have the opportunity to interact with locals, learn about their customs, and savour homemade Vietnamese cuisine.

Budget-Friendly Hostels : In Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1, The Common Room Project is a popular hostel among backpackers. With its vibrant communal spaces and lively atmosphere, this hostel offers an ideal base for exploring the city’s bustling streets and vibrant nightlife. It organizes various activities such as food tours and pub crawls to ensure you make the most of your stay.

Must Visit Destinations in Vietnam

If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, there are certain destinations that you simply cannot miss.

10. Explore the City of Hanoi

famous red bridge in the Lake of the Returned Sword in Hanoi

Start your urban adventure in Hanoi, the capital city known for its bustling Old Quarter . Lose yourself in its maze-like streets filled with shops selling everything from silk products to delicious street food. Make sure to visit Hoan Kiem Lake and catch a glimpse of Ngoc Son Temple situated on an island in the middle.

11. Go Hiking in Sapa

Sapa, nestled in the mountains of northern Vietnam, is a picturesque town famous for its terraced rice fields . Embark on a trekking adventure through the lush green landscapes and encounter ethnic minority communities along the way. The breath-taking views and cultural encounters will make your journey truly unforgettable.

12. Visit Halong Bay

One of the most iconic places in Vietnam is Halong Bay, known for its amazing limestone karsts jutting out of the emerald waters. Imagine cruising through this UNESCO World Heritage Site , surrounded by towering cliffs and exploring hidden caves. Halong Bay offers a unique experience that will leave you in awe of nature’s beauty.

13. Bask Along Beautiful Beaches in Danang

The beaches in Danang have crystal-clear turquoise waters and long stretches of golden sand. If you’re into history, you can’t miss the Marble Mountain s. These towering limestone hills are not only breath-taking to look at, but they also have a bunch of caves and pagodas that you can explore. Plus, the views from the top are absolutely amazing!

14. Explore Hoi An

Another must-visit destination is Hoi An’s charming ancient town . This well-preserved trading port from the 15th Century is a delightful blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences. As you wander through the narrow streets adorned with colourful lanterns , you’ll be transported back in time. Don’t forget to visit the famous Japanese Covered Bridge and sample some mouth-watering local cuisine at one of the many street food stalls.

15. Visit Dalat

Dalat is a super cool city nestled up in the highlands of central Vietnam . It’s famous for its beautiful scenery, pleasant weather and fresh mountain air. You can visit the crazy cool Crazy House , which looks like a fairy tale castle, or take a peaceful boat ride on the serene Xuan Huong Lake. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even go canyoning down waterfalls or zip-lining through the lush green forests.

16. Wander Around Ho Chi Minh

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon , is another city that shouldn’t be missed. Immerse yourself in its fast-paced atmosphere as motorbikes whiz by and skyscrapers tower above you. Explore historic landmarks like the Reunification Palace or delve into Vietnam’s war history at the War Remnants Museum. And don’t forget to indulge in some retail therapy at Ben Thanh Market before savouring delectable Vietnamese cuisine at one of the city’s many rooftop restaurants.

17. Enjoy Island Life on Phu Quoc Island

For those seeking relaxation, Phu Quoc Island is a paradise waiting to be explored. With pristine beaches fringed by palm trees and crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, it’s an ideal destination for beach lovers.

Must-Do Experiences in Vietnam

Seeing the many different sights in Vietnam allows visitors to immerse themselves in the country’s rich history, vibrant culture, and breath-taking natural landscapes.

a man with his hands in the air entering the cu chi tunnels in ho chi minh city

18. Go on a Cruise in Halong Bay

One of the must-do activities is taking a cruise through Halong Bay. To make the most of your experience, consider booking an overnight or 2 night cruise . This will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the bay and wake up to awe-inspiring views. Take in the sunrise as it casts a golden glow over the karsts, creating a truly magical atmosphere.

During your cruise, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Explore hidden caves and grottoes nestled within the limestone cliffs, or go kayaking and get up close to these natural wonders. You can also try your hand at fishing or simply relax on deck and soak in the beauty around you.

19. Take a Traditional Vietnamese Cooking Class

Embark on a culinary adventure by learning traditional cooking techniques. Join a cooking class where experienced chefs will guide you through the process of preparing authentic Vietnamese dishes. From mastering the art of rolling fresh spring rolls to creating flavourful pho broth, these classes offer hands-on experiences that will leave your taste buds craving more.

20. Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels

For history enthusiasts, a tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City is an absolute must! The Cu Chi Tunnels were used by the Viet Cong soldiers as hiding spots, supply routes, and even living quarters. One of the highlights of visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels is witnessing the various traps and obstacles that were strategically placed to protect the tunnel system. You’ll see examples of spike pits, camouflaged trapdoors, and even hidden entrances that were designed to confuse and deter enemy forces.

21. Cruise the Mekong Delta

A cruise along the Mekong Delta is a must when you visit Vietnam with its intricate system of rivers and canals. You’ll pass by lush green rice paddies, floating markets where people sell all sorts of stuff on boats, and even little villages where locals live.

Cultural Tips for Vietnam

Vietnam is a culturally rich country, and to make the most of your visit, it is important to be aware of and respectful towards their customs and traditions.

22. Learn Some Basic Vietnamese

When traveling to Vietnam, it’s always a good idea to learn some basic Vietnamese phrases. Not only will this make your trip more enjoyable, but it will also help you connect with the locals on a deeper level. Here are some essential phrases that you should know:

  • Xin chĂ o (Hello) – This is a common greeting used throughout Vietnam. It’s a simple way to start conversations and show respect to the locals.
  • CáșŁm ÆĄn (Thank you) – Expressing gratitude is important in any culture. Saying “cáșŁm ÆĄn” will go a long way in showing your appreciation for the hospitality of the Vietnamese people.
  • Xin lỗi (Excuse me / Sorry) – If you accidentally bump into someone or need to get someone’s attention, saying “xin lỗi” will help you navigate through crowded streets or busy markets.
  • TĂŽi khĂŽng hiểu (I don’t understand) – This phrase can come in handy when trying to communicate with someone who doesn’t speak English well. It shows that you’re making an effort and encourages them to find alternative ways to convey their message.
  • Bao nhiĂȘu tiền? (How much does it cost?) – Bargaining is common in Vietnam, especially at local markets. Knowing how to ask for prices will help you get fair deals and avoid overpaying as a tourist.

By familiarizing yourself with these basic phrases, you’ll be able to navigate daily interactions more smoothly and create meaningful connections with the local community.

23. Learn About Vietnam’s Rich History

an abandoned us aarmy helicopter now on display in the war remnants museum in ho chi minh city

Vietnam is a country with a rich and complex history. To fully appreciate and learn the things to know about Vietnamese culture, it’s essential to delve into its past. One way to do this is by visiting historical sites that offer insights into Vietnam’s heritage. Here are two notable places you should consider:

Imperial Citadel of Thang Long – Located in Hanoi, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as the political centre of Vietnam for over 13 centuries. Exploring this ancient citadel will give you a glimpse into the country’s imperial past, with remnants dating back to the 11th Century.

War Remnants Museum – The War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit if you’re interested in learning about Vietnam’s history and the impact of the Vietnam War. There are lots of photographs and displays that show what life was like for the people who lived through the war.

24. Cover Up When Visiting Temples or Pagodas in Vietnam

Make sure to dress modestly when visiting temples or pagodas. It’s a sign of respect to cover your shoulders and knees, so pack some lightweight, breathable clothes that still keep you covered. Also, don’t forget to remove your shoes before entering these sacred places – it’s a common practice in Vietnam.

I carry a  large lightweight scarf  /  sarong  in my bag at all times which can be thrown over my shoulders or used as a skirt when required. I have also used it as a picnic blanket, beach towel and in cars with cold air-conditioning.

25. Saving Face

An important thing to keep in mind when travelling in Vietnam is the concept of “saving face.” Vietnamese people value harmony and confrontation is one of the things to avoid in Vietnam, so try to remain calm and polite in any situation.

26. Be Aware of Siesta Time in Vietnam

If you’re out and about between the times of noon and 2pm , you may find a lot of shops, businesses and attractions are closed. So, make sure to plan your day accordingly.

27. LGBTQ+ Friendly

Vietnam is a friendly and safe place for LGBTQ+ people and the Vietnamese people in general seem to be really open-minded and accepting of everyone.

Health and Safety Travel Tips in Vietnam

Safety should always be a top priority. Fortunately, Vietnam is generally considered a safe country for tourists. However, it’s still important to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect yourself during your trip.

28. Be Sun Safe

We recommend bringing your own  sunscreen  (preferably SPF 30+ and reef safe) as it is expensive to buy in Vietnam and the selection available is very limited.

 In addition, wearing a wide  brimmed hat ,  sunglasses  and  protective clothing  with long sleeves will provide additional sun protection.

29. Bring Insect Repellent

In Vietnam, it’s really important to protect yourself from mosquito bites, as well as ticks and certain types of flies, because they can spread diseases. Some common diseases transmitted by mosquitoes include Dengue, Japanese Encephalitis, Malaria, and Zika. Mosquitoes are most active between dusk and dawn, especially during the wet season. So, remember to use insect repellent (preferably with at least 50% DEET) and cover up with clothing whenever possible to avoid getting bitten.

30. Don’t Drink Tap Water

It’s important to note that drinking tap water in Vietnam is not safe. This is because there is a risk of contracting diseases such as Typhoid or Hepatitis A, or even just experiencing a bad case of travellers’ diarrhoea. To stay hydrated, you have a few options. You can easily find bottled water to purchase, or you can bring a reusable water bottle . While many hotels and restaurants provide filtered water, it’s safer to opt for sealed bottles as they guarantee purity. Another option is to use a SteriPen , which can purify tap water for you.

When you’re traveling in Vietnam, it’s important to be cautious about the fruits and vegetables you eat. Some places may wash them with tap water, which might not be safe. It’s also common for restaurants and bars to serve drinks with ice. In reputable establishments, they usually use purified ice. However, if you’re unsure, it’s better to ask for your drink without ice and drink straight from the can or bottle.

31. Always Carry Toilet Paper and Hand Sanitiser

To stay safe, it’s a good idea to have tissues or toilet paper and hand sanitizer with you whenever you go out. Expensive restaurants usually have toilet paper and soap, but most bars, markets, and temples do not. So, it’s better to be prepared in case you get a case of the dreaded Montezuma’s revenge


32. Vaccinations

 All travellers should be up-to-date with their routine vaccinations before heading off on a holiday to anywhere in the world, but the following vaccinations are recommended for visitors to Vietnam. We recommend talking to your doctor 3 to 4 weeks prior to your trip about how you can best protect yourself prior to your departure.

  • Hepatitis A
  • Hepatitis B 
  • Japanese Encephalitis

33. Crossing the Street in Vietnam Takes Confidence

Crossing the street in Vietnam can be terrifying at first , but you’ll get the hang of it! The traffic here is crazy and the motorbikes seem to be coming at you from every direction. When you see an opportunity with a break in traffic flow, start walking at a steady pace without hesitating or making sudden movements. It’s important not to stop abruptly or backtrack while crossing.

Also, pedestrian crossings / zebra crossing s do not work the same way in Vietnam as they do in western countries. For your own safety: stop and look both ways before walking as cars and motorbikes often do not stop at them and give way to pedestrians.

Also, always look both ways on a one way street as it is not uncommon for a motorbikes to be driving up a street the wrong way.

34. Don’t Expect to Walk on the Footpath

Vietnam’s sidewalks can be both a blessing and a challenge for pedestrians. While they offer dedicated space away from vehicular traffic, they are often occupied by parked motorcycles or used as extensions of shops and restaurants . Consequently, pedestrians may find themselves forced onto the road instead.

Top Vietnam Travel Tip: When walking along busy streets in Vietnam, walk on the same same as oncoming traffic so you can see what is coming towards you, and avoid obstacles if needed safely.

It’s important to note that sidewalks vary greatly across different areas within Vietnam. In some places, they may be wide and well-maintained, providing ample space for pedestrians to walk comfortably. However, in the major cities such as Hanoi, they can become narrow or obstructed by vendors’ stalls or other obstacles, and in HCMC when the lights turn red, expect motorcyclists to use the footpath instead of waiting at the lights.

35. Watch Out For Drive-By Motorbike Theft

Drive-by motorbike theft is a prevalent issue in Vietnam . Tourists and locals alike should be cautious when walking on the streets, as thieves on motorbikes are known to snatch bags and belongings , especially mobile phones, from unsuspecting pedestrians. These thieves operate swiftly, often targeting individuals who are distracted or have their belongings exposed. It is advisable to keep valuable items secure and to be aware of your surroundings at all times to avoid falling victim to this type of theft.

Top Tip: When walking along busy streets, keep your bag on the side, and your phone in the hand furthest away from road traffic.

36. Stay Vigilant and Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Hanoi or relaxing on the pristine beaches of Nha Trang, it’s crucial to remain alert at all times . Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid displaying expensive items that may attract unwanted attention .

37. Protect your Valuables with a Cable Lock and Pacsafe

We don’t travel anywhere without our  Pascafe cable lock ,  Portable Travel Safe  and  Crossbody Bags . We use our cable lock to secure our valuables in a cupboard in the hotel room or in our bag / portable travel safe which we cable lock to an immoveable piece of furniture or fixed item. We both have a Pacsafe crossover bag which we use each day, one for just our camera, and one for our everyday items.

Pacsafe products  are well known for their anti-theft technology and are slash proof, have amazing lock down functions on zippers and hooks, and are RDIF safe. They provide peace of mind knowing our valuables are safe at all times.

38. Rent a Motorcycle Only if You Are Experienced

It is a common sight in Vietnam to see tourists with little to no riding experience on motorbikes without helmets and in very little clothing. It is a risk many are willing to take, but be aware, Vietnam has one of the highest traffic fatality records in the world. Add to this poor road conditions and very few road rules, and it is an accident waiting to happen.

 If you do decide to rent a motorbike (and have read Tip # 8 above), we highly recommend:

  • Have a motorbike license in your own country AND a local Vietnamese license (this is the law!)
  • A valid International Driver’s License
  • Wear a good quality helmet (this is also the law!)
  • Wear protective clothing – long pants, enclosed shoes
  • Don’t speed
  • Don’t drink and drive

 N.B. If you do have an accident, whether you are at fault or not, if you are a tourist, the accident is your fault. This is an argument or fight you cannot win, so negotiate well to keep the costs down.

39. Book Travel Insurance

When you’re travelling to any country, it’s important to prioritize your safety by getting travel insurance. This will provide coverage for potential issues like illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. We personally never embark on a trip without travel insurance, as we’ve had to rely on it multiple times in the past. For the previous years, we’ve been using a company called 1Cover , but we also recommend SafetyWing , which comes highly recommended by many of our friends who travel full-time.

Eating and Drinking in Vietnam

Vietnam offers a vibrant and diverse culinary scene, with a wide range of delicious dishes and refreshing drinks to explore.

bowl of noodles and beef, and spring rills in vietnam

40. Choose Where to Eat Carefully

When you’re in Vietnam, you’ll find a wide range of dining options, from fancy restaurants to small street stalls run by locals. However, it’s important to note that not all places maintain the same level of cleanliness and food hygiene. To ensure you eat safely while travelling anywhere in the world, here are some essential guidelines to keep in mind:

  • Choose food that is freshly cooked
  • Select fruits and vegetables you can peel
  • Be cautious with raw, undercooked or reheated food, raw and shelled seafood, raw or undercooked eggs, and salads
  • Choose busy restaurants to eat at, especially those that are full of local people, older people or those with young children
  • Make sure cutlery is clean
  • If you are unsure if it is ‘safe ice’, go without

42. Try Street Food

A great way to experience the local culture when in Vietnam is to try the street food! You’ll find all sorts of delicious treats like banh mi (a tasty sandwich with meat and veggies), pho (a yummy noodle soup), and spring rolls (crispy and filled with tasty ingredients).

43. Go on a Food Tour

Going on a food tour in Vietnam is a must-do experience for any food lover and allows you to explore the diverse and delicious flavours of the country. From the famous pho and banh mi to lesser-known dishes like bun cha and banh xeo, you’ll have the opportunity to try a wide variety of Vietnamese cuisine. The best part is that most of these dishes are prepared right in front of you, giving you a chance to see the skill and passion that goes into creating each dish.

44. Attend a Vietnamese Cooking Class

Attending a Vietnamese cooking class is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the flavours and techniques of this vibrant cuisine. During the class, you will have the opportunity to learn from experienced chefs who will guide you through the process of creating authentic Vietnamese dishes .

From mastering the art of rolling fresh spring rolls to perfecting the balance of flavours in a traditional pho broth, you will gain valuable skills that you can use to recreate these delicious dishes at home. Not only will you learn about the ingredients and techniques used in Vietnamese cooking, but you will also get to taste and savour the fruits of your labour.

45. Lots of Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Vietnam is a great destination for vegans and vegetarians, as there are plenty of options available. The country’s cuisine is known for its fresh and flavourful ingredients, making it easy to find plant-based dishes . Many traditional Vietnamese dishes can be easily adapted to be vegan or vegetarian, with options like tofu, tempeh, and a variety of vegetables . Additionally, there are also dedicated vegetarian and vegan restaurants in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, offering a wide range of delicious and healthy plant-based meals.

46. Vietnam is a Coffee Lovers Paradise

The country is known for its rich coffee culture and offers a wide variety of coffee options to satisfy any caffeine enthusiast. The traditional Vietnamese drip coffee or “ CĂ  phĂȘ sua de “, is a strong brew made by slowly dripping hot water through finely ground beans into a glass containing sweetened condensed milk. The result is an intense yet creamy concoction that will give you an invigorating caffeine kick.

For a more unique experience, don’t miss the opportunity to try egg coffee . This specialty drink originated in Hanoi and is made by whipping together egg yolks, sugar, condensed milk, and robust Vietnamese coffee. The end result is a velvety smooth beverage with a rich and indulgent flavour that will leave you craving for more.

47. Drinking in Vietnam

Drinking in Vietnam is a popular social activity, with a variety of options available for those looking to enjoy a drink. One unique aspect of drinking in Vietnam is the tradition of bia hoi , which is a type of fresh beer that is brewed daily and served in small, local establishments. Bia hoi is known for its light and refreshing taste, and it is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.

In terms of the legal drinking age , the legal age for purchasing and consuming alcohol in Vietnam is 18 years old . However, it is worth noting that enforcement of this law can vary, especially in more tourist-heavy areas.

Vietnam also has a thriving bar scene, particularly in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, where you can find a wide range of bars offering everything from craft cocktails to rooftop bars with live music. Whether you prefer a traditional bia hoi or a trendy bar, Vietnam has something to offer for every drinking preference.

Common Scams in Vietnam

Vietnam is generally a very safe country , and there are numerous safety measures in place to ensure that travellers have a positive and relaxed experience. However, there are some dishonest people who target tourists with illegal or deceptive activities. While some of these scams are easily noticeable, others may not be so obvious.

a christian dior handbag at a market with wrong spelling - christian dorio

48. Wrong Change

Once you arrive in Vietnam, make sure to familiarize yourself with the local currency . This is important because you might encounter situations where you could be short-changed or taken advantage of by cashiers who assume you are not familiar with Vietnamese currency. For example, taxi drivers, busy markets, small restaurants, and bars are common places where this can happen. However, you can easily avoid this by carrying smaller notes with you and exchanging larger 500,000 VND notes at places like Circle-K or your hotel.

49. Motorbike Rentals

Exploring Vietnam on a motorbike is an exhilarating experience that allows you the freedom to discover hidden gems off the beaten path. Choose a reputable rental company with good on-line reviews, reliable bikes and transparent pricing. We recommend checking the motorbike carefully before renting it and ‘obviously’ taking photos or video of every scratch and dent.

50. Unmetered Taxis

 Prior to getting into a taxi, always request and insist on the meter to be used. If they don’t agree, wait for the next taxi. Pre-quoted prices by drivers are always more expensive. Also, the GRAB App is a popular alternative to taking taxis.

Staying Connected in Vietnam

Exploring Vietnam is an adventure that requires staying connected to share your experiences with friends and family back home.

51. Wi-Fi is Easily Accessible Nearly Everywhere

Luckily, you can easily stay connected by taking advantage of the free Wi-Fi available at hotels, cafes, and restaurants throughout the country.

52. Get a Vietnamese SIM Card

While relying on Wi-Fi might be sufficient for some travellers, having a local SIM card provides greater convenience. With a local SIM card , you’ll have reliable internet access wherever you go without depending on finding Wi-Fi hotspots.

To get a local SIM card in Vietnam, head to one of the many convenience stores or mobile network providers such as Viettel or Vinaphone . These companies offer various packages tailored to tourists’ needs with affordable data plans that allow you to make calls and use mobile data during your stay.

Having a local SIM card not only ensures continuous connectivity but also allows you to navigate using map apps like Google Maps or book transportation services through ride-hailing apps like Grab. It’s worth noting that purchasing a local SIM card requires presenting your passport as part of the registration process .

Vietnam Travel Money Tips

When traveling to Vietnam, it is important to have a variety of payment options such as cash, credit cards, and local currency to ensure smooth transactions and avoid any inconvenience.

all the notes in vietnamese currency

53. Break Big Bills at a Convenience Store

In Vietnam, it is beneficial to break big bills at convenience stores because they often have a variety of smaller denominations available, making it easier to pay for smaller purchases or receive change. Additionally, convenience stores are typically open late or even 24/7, providing convenient access to cash services outside of regular banking hours.

54. Carry Small Change and Notes

Carrying a pocket full of smaller notes such as 10,000 / 20,000 and 50,000 VND notes are ideal for paying for transport or food at local restaurants. Food vendors and taxi drivers often don’t have change to break a 100,000, 200,000 or 500,000 VND notes.

55. ATMs in Vietnam

ATMs are readily available across major cities in the country. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash on hand for small purchases or when visiting rural areas where ATMs may be scarce.

We have found HSBC ATMs great to use and they have a higher withdrawal limit.

Top Tip : To save a lot of money wen travelling overseas, choose a Credit Card that refunds international ATM fees .

56. Inform Your Bank About Your Travel Plans

Before embarking on your journey to Vietnam, it’s crucial to inform your bank about your travel plans. This step is essential because using foreign cards abroad might trigger security measures by your bank and result in blocked transactions or frozen accounts.

By notifying your bank about your upcoming trip, they will be aware that you will be using your debit or credit card in Vietnam. This proactive measure helps prevent any unnecessary inconveniences during your travels . It’s a good idea to inquire about any fees associated with international card usage, such as foreign transaction fees or currency conversion charges. Being aware of these fees beforehand can help you plan your expenses more effectively.

57. Haggling in Vietnam

When you’re in Vietnam, bargaining is a common practice and it can be a fun way to interact with the locals. While department stores and big shops have fixed prices, you can still haggle at local markets to improve your bargaining skills.

When bargaining in Vietnam, it’s generally recommended to start with a price that is about half of what the vendor initially asks for. Negotiate until you reach a compromise somewhere in the middle. If the price is too high, don’t hesitate to walk away. Surprisingly, this can be an effective strategy as the vendor might even chase after you and be willing to renegotiate.

58. Tipping is Not Expected in Vietnam

Tipping is not the custom in Vietnam and there is no mandatory requirement to tip anyone. However, of course, small tips for great service are very much appreciated.

Budgeting for Your Vietnam Trip

Budgeting for your Vietnam trip is important because it helps you plan and allocate your finances wisely, ensuring that you have enough money for transportation, accommodation, food, activities, and unexpected expenses.

59. Plan Your Budget Carefully

It’s essential to consider all aspects of your expenses when planning a trip overseas. By breaking down the costs of accommodation, transportation, meals, and activities in advance, you can ensure that you make the most of your money while enjoying an unforgettable experience.

Accommodation: One of the first things to consider when budgeting for your Vietnam trip is accommodation. The country offers a wide range of options suitable for every budget. From luxury hotels to cozy guesthouses and hostels, you’ll find something that fits your needs. If you’re looking to save money on accommodation, consider staying in budget-friendly guesthouses or hostels that offer comfortable rooms at affordable prices.

Transportation: Getting around in Vietnam can be an adventure in itself. To keep transportation costs within your budget, opt for public buses or trains instead of private taxis whenever possible. These options are not only cheaper, but also provide an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture. For shorter distances within cities or towns, consider renting a bicycle or using ride-sharing apps like Grab.

Meals: Vietnamese cuisine is known for its delicious flavours and affordability. To save on meals during your trip, take advantage of the abundant street food options available throughout the country. Street food vendors offer a variety of dishes at incredibly reasonable prices. Don’t miss out on trying popular street foods like banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), pho (noodle soup), or fresh spring rolls.

Activities: Exploring Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage doesn’t have to break the bank. Research free or low-cost attractions such as temples, pagodas, and public parks that offer unique insights into Vietnamese history and traditions without any extra cost. Many cities have free walking tours led by knowledgeable locals who can provide valuable insights into the area’s history and culture.

Packing Tips for Vietnam Travel

When packing for your trip to Vietnam, it is important to get it right to ensure you are comfortable no matter what the weather is like, or where you visit..

60. Don’t Over Pack

Clothes are cheap to buy in Vietnam and it is hard to resist shopping at the markets for some bargains. Pack light and buy any extras you need while here. Also, it is cheap and easy to get clothing washed all around Vietnam.

61. Pack Lightweight, Breathable Clothes

One of the most important things to keep in mind is the country’s tropical climate . The weather can be hot and humid, especially during the summer months. Therefore, it is essential to pack lightweight clothing that will keep you comfortable throughout your journey.

Opt for breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen that allow air circulation and help wick away sweat. Loose-fitting clothes are also recommended as they provide better ventilation and prevent overheating. Pack plenty of t-shirts, shorts, skirts, and dresses to stay cool during your explorations.

62. Pack a Rain Jacket or Umbrella

Vietnam experiences sudden showers throughout the year, particularly during the rainy season which typically runs from May to October. To prepare for these unexpected downpours, make sure to include a rain jacket or an umbrella in your packing list.

63. Pack Appropriate Clothing for Temple Visits

To show the proper respect when visiting Vietnam’s beautiful temples, you will need to pack clothes that will cover your shoulders and knees . Lightweight long pants and long sleeved shirts are ideal for this. A  sarong  (see below) or  scarf  is great to throw in your bag for an unplanned temple visit.

64. Pack a Sarong

Sarongs  are so versatile and should be an essential on any packing list for Vietnam. Use it as a cover up on the beach, in lieu of a beach towel, as a picnic blanket, to protect yourself from the sun, to cover your shoulders when visiting a temple, or even as a layer if the air-conditioner in a bus is too cold


65. Pack Insect Repellent and Sunscreen

 As mentioned above, good quality sunscreen and insect repellent can be very expensive and / or hard to find in Vietnam. We recommend you bring your own  i nsect repellent , preferably with 50% DEET, and a good quality broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF.

Sustainable and Responsible Vietnam Travel Tips

It is important to practice sustainable and responsible travel in Vietnam by supporting local businesses, respecting the culture and environment, and minimizing waste to preserve the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage for future generations.

top tip for travelling in vietnam - shop selling authentic handmade vietnamese products

66. Respect the Environment

Respecting the environment is crucial when traveling to Vietnam. One of the most significant ways to do so is by avoiding single-use plastics . These harmful materials contribute to pollution, especially in coastal areas where they often end up in the ocean, endangering marine life. Instead, opt for reusable water bottles and tote bags during your trip.

If you’re passionate about preserving Vietnam’s beautiful beaches, consider participating in beach clean-ups . Various organizations and local communities organize these events regularly, providing an opportunity for tourists to give back while enjoying their vacation. By joining a beach clean-up, you actively contribute to keeping the coastline pristine and protecting its diverse ecosystems.

67. Support Local Communities

Supporting local communities plays a vital role in ensuring that Vietnam tourism benefits everyone involved. In Vietnam, there are several ways you can support locals and make a positive impact on their lives. One way is by purchasing souvenirs directly from artisans or local markets . By doing so, you not only acquire unique handcrafted items but also support traditional craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations.

Another option is to visit social enterprises that give back to society. These businesses empower disadvantaged individuals by providing them with employment opportunities and fair wages. By patronizing these establishments, you help create a more equitable society while experiencing authentic Vietnamese culture first-hand.

68. Be Mindful of Cultural Norms

Vietnam boasts a rich cultural heritage that should be respected by all visitors. When visiting religious sites such as temples or pagodas, it’s essential to dress modestly and follow any specific guidelines provided at each location. This demonstrates respect for the beliefs and practices of the local community.

Interacting with locals requires sensitivity towards cultural norms as well. Vietnamese people are known for their warmth and hospitality but appreciating their customs will help foster positive interactions. For instance, it is customary to greet others with a slight bow or a handshake rather than hugging or kissing. Learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases, such as “Xin chĂ o” (hello) or “CáșŁm ÆĄn” (thank you), can also go a long way in showing respect and building connections.

FAQs: Tips for Travelling Vietnam

Is it safe to travel alone in vietnam.

Traveling alone in Vietnam is generally safe as long as you take necessary precautions. Stick to well-lit areas at night, avoid displaying valuable items openly, and be cautious of your surroundings. It’s always a good idea to stay connected with someone back home and inform them of your itinerary.

How clean is Vietnam?

Vietnam’s cleanliness varies from city to city. While some areas may be clean, others can be littered. We have found that because there are very few rubbish bins around, people tend do throw their rubbish on the footpath or street.

How communist is Vietnam?

Vietnam has a communist government but has implemented market-oriented policies. It maintains a one-party system and restricts political freedoms.

How much do you tip a guide in Vietnam?

The standard tipping amount for travel guides in Vietnam is around 10-15% of the total cost of the tour. However, tipping is not mandatory and depends on your satisfaction with the service.

How much money should I bring for Vietnam trip?

When traveling to Vietnam, it’s recommended to bring around US$50 – 100 per day for accommodation, food, transportation, and activities. Plan accordingly!

Is it Saigon or HCMC?

While the city is officially called Ho Chi Minh City, many locals still refer to it as Saigon.

How much is 1 bowl of pho in Vietnam?

In Vietnam, the average price for a bowl of pho is around 40,000 to 60,000 Vietnamese Dong, equivalent to approximately US$1.50 to $2.50.

Is Vietnam or Bali cheaper?

Vietnam is generally cheaper than Bali in terms of accommodation, food, and transportation. However, prices can vary depending on the specific location and type of services.

Can I use US dollars in Vietnam?

While some hotels and tourist establishments may accept US dollars, it’s advisable to use Vietnamese dong (VND) for most transactions. You can exchange currency at banks or withdraw cash from ATMs throughout the country.

What is Tet holiday in Vietnam?

Tet, also known as the Lunar New Year, is the most important festival in Vietnam. It usually falls between late January and early February and is a time for family reunions, feasts, and celebrations. Many businesses may close during this period, so it’s essential to plan your trip accordingly.

Does Vietnam hate the US and France?

Vietnam’s relationship with the US and France has evolved over time. While there may be historical tensions, it is inaccurate to say that Vietnam hates either country.

Can I drink tap water in Vietnam?

It’s generally not recommended to drink tap water in Vietnam. Stick to bottled water or boiled / filtered water for drinking and brushing your teeth.

Is Vietnam easy to travel around?

Yes! Vietnam is very easy to travel around with a variety of transportation options to suit all budgets including Grab taxis, buses, trains and domestic flights.

In Summary: Our Top Tips for Travelling Vietnam

By now, you should have a solid understanding of the essential traveling to Vietnam tips and information needed for a successful trip to this enchanting country. From obtaining your visa to exploring must-visit destinations, we’ve covered it all.

Now that you’re equipped with all this knowledge, it’s time to start planning your dream trip to Vietnam. Whether you’re seeking bustling cities or serene landscapes, Vietnam has something for everyone. So pack your bags, embrace the unknown, and get ready for an unforgettable experience in this beautiful country!

Essential Travel Planning Resources for Vietnam

These are our favourite companies to use when we travel to Vietnam. They consistently turn up the best deals and offer great customer service, and overall, are better than their competitors. These companies are always our starting point when we need to book a flight, hotel, tour, transportation etc.

Book Your Flight : The best and easiest way to find cheap flights is to use Skyscanner or Kiwi . They compare all of the available prices across every airline to help you compare flights in one place.

Book Accommodation: In Vietnam, whether you are looking to book a hostel, guest house, hotel or resort, you’ll always find the best deals on Agoda . We always search using the map feature to find accommodation in the best location. If we are staying for a month or longer in a destination, we also search for monthly deals on Airbnb and Booking.com . For hostel bookings, we compare reviews on Hostelworld , then check other booking sites to compare prices.

Book a Tour: We mostly travel independently, however, some places are better to visit with a guided tour. We use both  GetYourGuide   and  Viator to find great deals on tours in Vietnam.

Book Transportation: Rome2Rio is a great planning tool which allows us to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. From there, we book our transportation through 12Go.asia to save both money and time. We believe the best way to explore Vietnam is by motorbike or bicycle, and BikesBooking.com offer the most competitive prices. If you are planning a road trip, we always use Discover Cars to find the best deals.

Book Travel Insurance: Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft and cancellations. We never travel without it as we have had to use it several times in the past. We have been using 1Cover for the past 4 years, however, we also recommend SafetyWing as many of our fulltime travel friends swear by them.

Always Carry With You: When travelling in Vietnam , we always carry a   daypack  for excursions and the   Lonely Planet Guide !

Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out our Travel Resource s page for the companies we use and recommend to plan and book our travels. Through lots of trial and error over the years, these are the best!

DISCLAIMER: This article contains affiliate links and Exit45 Travels are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we make a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more information.

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We are Peta and Jonas of Exit45 Travels, a couple in our late 40’s / mid 50’s who have been travelling the world fulltime since January 2018. We decided to minimalise belongings, and get out of the rat race early to enjoy a new lifestyle with more time for slow travel and new experiences. If you want to know more about who we are, why we choose this lifestyle and how we do it, please follow our adventures and see how you can do it too.

Life Of Doing

40 Things to Know Before Traveling to Vietnam for the First Time

We're sharing top things to know before visiting Vietnam, such as seeing the beautiful green rice terraces of Sapa.

Traveling through Vietnam will provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The top reasons to visit include seeing the stunning landscape, eating mouthwatering Vietnamese cuisine, exploring fun things to do , and observing unique cultural experiences from North to South areas. It’s one country that you’ll fall in love with and will want to visit many times. 

If you’re thinking about visiting Vietnam in the future, then continue reading! 

We’re sharing the 40 things to know before traveling to Vietnam for your first visit. We want you to be fully prepared for your trip so you must read these helpful Vietnam travel tips. 

How do we know so much about Vietnam? We’ve been living in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam for over three years so we know the ins and outs of the country. There is so much information floating around the Internet and Facebook groups, so we want to provide relevant and valuable advice to traveling here, especially for your first time in Vietnam. 

Continue reading and check out these practical tips on visiting Vietnam from general travel information, budget-friendly ideas , where to go, and more.

*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. If you click on them and make a purchase, we receive a small commission. There is no additional cost to you. Appreciate the support.

1. Check if you need a visa.

The most important Vietnam travel tip to know is to determine if you need a visa before entering Vietnam . Unless you’re part of the ASEAN countries , you’ll most likely need a visa. 

You must submit your visa application two weeks before your travel date to get approval from the government. 

You can either go through a visa company or submit an e-Visa (U.S. citizens can do this option). Click here to submit the e-Visa . 

The e-Visa is only for a single entry and you can stay in the country for 30 days. It’s available for certain countries, such as the United States. 

We suggest the e-Visa process since it saves time on arrival as you can go directly through immigration after landing. Otherwise, you may have to wait a while to get your visa in your passport.

  • Once you’re close to your visa expiration date, you’ll need to leave the country.
  • Or, you’ll need to apply for another e-Visa at least 1 week before your expiration date and then do a visa run. If you’re in Ho Chi Minh City, many people go to Moc Bai (Vietnam)-Bavet (Cambodia) borders to do the visa run. You’ll need to do this process every 30 days or pay a penalty for overstaying your visit.

**Temporary suspended until further notice** If you plan to go to Vietnam, take a flight to Thailand and spend 3 days there, and then go back to Vietnam, then you’ll need a multi-entry visa . This will require a visa through a visa company. We’ve used this company (no affiliation) and didn’t have any issues. 

Hoi An, Vietnam is a charming city with yellow buildings and a river that has boats.

Check if you need a Vietnam visa prior to departure so you can visit awesome places like Hoi An! Photo credit: efired via Depositphotos.com

2. Vietnam is a LONG country. Choose your destinations wisely!

Vietnam has so many incredible places to visit. It’s hard to decide where to go! The country is S-shaped and is 1,025 miles (1649 kilometers) long, so it’s much longer than it appears on the map. 

If this is your first trip to Vietnam, do not try to see everything! It’ll be too daunting and you’ll burn out from the transportation and moving from city to city.  

Where should you go in Vietnam? Most travelers will start their Vietnam travels either in North Vietnam at Hanoi, the capital, or South Vietnam at Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) and head in the opposite direction. During your visit, add one or more of these Vietnam UNESCO sites , national parks , or beach towns to your itinerary. 

If you’re short on time, it’s easy to visit the large cities with a short domestic flight. You can easily fly around the country in 2 hours. 

Read our posts on the best destinations to visit in Vietnam here. 

3 . you’ll need to spend at least 1 week in vietnam or longer..

Since Vietnam is a long country to travel to, you’ll need at least 1 week to travel here. 

One week in Vietnam is barely scratching the surface. If you have this limited amount of time, it’s recommended to spend the time in one area to lessen the travel time – either in North (ie: Hanoi), Central (ie: Danang ), or South (ie: Ho Chi Minh City ).

Check out our 1 week itinerary from North to South Vietnam or 1 week in Central Vietnam itinerary here. 

We recommend that you have at least 10 days to 2 weeks in the country. Read how to spend 2 weeks in South Vietnam here. 

You can spend up to one month here and still won’t be able to see everything. At least you have time to add one of these off-the-beaten-track destination spots to your itinerary. 

Just remember to pace yourself with your sightseeing adventures as you can always return to this country multiple times. 

Jackie Szeto, Life Of Doing, stand inside the Phong Nha Cave with stalactites and stalagmites in the background.

Phong Nha is one of the coolest spots to see caves in Central Vietnam.

4. Vietnam is a Communist government.

The government transitioned to a Communist government after the end of the Vietnam War (called the American War in Vietnam) in 1975. This was an opportunity for the North and South to unite as one country. More information about Vietnam’s Communism is here . 

Since you’re a guest in this country, please be respectful of the government here . Here are some things to consider:

  • Be aware of what you say in public and on social media. You will get arrested for saying terrible things about the government and will need to pay a high fee to get out of jail. 
  • Do not do any political outreach or protesting! 

Otherwise, Vietnam isn’t as overbearing as other Communist countries . It’s developing rapidly in major cities such as Ho Chi Minh City. Many people are entrepreneurs and open up their own businesses and restaurants. 

Check out 50+ incredible things to do in Ho Chi Minh City .

5. vietnam is a safe country to visit..

After living and traveling around Vietnam, we can say that Vietnam is a safe country to travel through.

All you need to do is use common sense and trust your gut . If it doesn’t feel right, then get yourself out of the situation! 

From what we’ve experienced after living here and traveling around, Vietnam is LGBT-friendly in Ho Chi Minh City. There are a few gay bars in Ho Chi Minh City, mostly in District 1. When traveling outside of Ho Chi Minh City, the country is still conservative so you’ll need to be cognizant of displaying public affection.

Vietnam is a good solo destination for women. We know a few female solo travelers who have visited this country and haven’t had any major issues. There are a few cases in the Ho Chi Minh City Female Expat group regarding Grab motorbike drivers taking photos of the driving routes and sending them to friends or assault at parks and streets. There are also cases of catcalling and bag theft. If this happens, report it to the police and fight back if needed. Stay vigilant!

The one thing to worry about is petty theft of jewelry, purses, and phones . Petty theft can happen at any time such as waiting at a street corner or riding a motorbike. 

Important Vietnam Travel Tips:  

  • If you need to check Google Maps on your smartphone, do not check it at the corner of the street. Step back and stand next to a building to minimize theft. 
  • Use a backpack or a crossover purse instead of a handbag to walk around town. 
  • If you ride a motorbike, use the seat trunk to store your purse and valuables. 
  • When dining on a sidewalk or the side of the road, do not leave your phone on the table. It can easily be swiped. 

We always suggest that you have travel insurance on hand just in case something happens. You never know what may happen or if you need medical attention.

6. English is spoken in larger, touristy cities. 

It’s recommended to learn some Vietnamese, but it’s really difficult to master due to the 12 vowels and each of the vowels has six tones. Even though we’ve lived here for 3 years, our speaking skills are elementary and people still cannot understand our tones. 

In the end, it’s best to speak English in larger cities . Many younger people will understand English (although, they’ll be shy about speaking) and can help you. 

If you’re in the smaller towns and cities, you will be out of luck since English is not spoken. The best way to communicate is to use the Google Translate app . The translation may be off but at least the other person can understand. 

If you do want to know some Vietnamese, we recommend that you download the Master Ling app to learn Vietnamese. The app’s courses are similar to what we learned during our in-person Vietnamese classes. Just know that the dialect used in the app is with a Northern accent as there is a “z” sound with the words. A Southern accent has a more “y” sound with words. 

Here are some important phrases. 

  • Hello (formal way) – Xin chĂ o. 
  • Hello (informal way to friends) – ChĂ o báșĄn.
  • Thank you – CĂĄm ÆĄn.
  • How much is this? – CĂĄi nĂ y bao nhiĂȘu tiền?  
  • One, two, three, cheers! – Một, hai, ba, vĂŽ!

7. Pack clothes for all types of weather.

It’s an assumption that Vietnam is hot and humid all year round. This is true if you’re based in South Vietnam, such as Ho Chi Minh City. Yet, there is different weather throughout the country. You’ll need to be prepared and bring appropriate clothing depending on when you travel to Vietnam. 

Read our post on what to pack for Vietnam here.

North Vietnam experiences many seasons here. It’s very hot during the summertime (in the 90℉ (32℃)) and cold and snowy during the winter (about 59℉ (15℃)), especially in the mountain regions. The rainy season is from May to September. 

Central Vietnam has plenty of sunshine throughout the year. The rainy season is from September to December and the heavy rains do flood some areas such as Phong Nha .  

South Vietnam has two seasons – 1) hot and rainy from April to October and 2) hot and dry from November to March. The average temperature is 85℉ (29℃). The rain can appear at any time but won’t last long. Check out our post on what to do in Ho Chi Minh City during the rainy season here.

Ho Chi Minh bronze statue with a beige French style building in the backdrop

Ho Chi Minh City feels like summer all year round with the heat and humidity.

8. Bring your own toiletries.

While you can buy many things in Vietnam, it’s best to bring your own stuff such as travel size shampoo , body wash , Pepto Bismol , etc. 

We also suggest that you bring sunscreen ( coral reef safe sunscreen is even better!) and travel size lotion since many of the products in Vietnam have whitening agents. 

For those who menstruate, bring your own tampons, sanitary napkins, and menstrual cups. 

9. Wear comfortable clothing.

What can you wear in Vietnam? Anything comfortable and weather appropriate! You can wear shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, dresses, and sandals when walking around town. 

When visiting religious sites and churches, please be respectful and cover shoulders and knees. If you don’t have any coverings, it’s still okay. You won’t be turned away by Security. 

10. Buy a SIM card on arrival.

Once you depart the airport in Vietnam, the first thing you should do is buy a SIM card. They’re cheap, provide unlimited 4G data around the country, and can make calls (in Vietnam only). Plus, you can use Google Maps, Grab (the most popular ride-hailing app similar to Uber), Google Translation, and other important apps while you’re here. 

At the airport, expect to pay around 220,000 VND ($9.50 USD) for unlimited 4G data and 100 minutes for local calls for the SIM card and it should last about 2 weeks of travel. 

The two most-used SIM card companies are Mobifone or Viettel. We use Mobifone for our carrier and haven’t had any issues. 

If you’re from the U.S. and want an international phone plan, consider switching to Google Project Fi . You can get data and calls in over 200+ countries and do not need to pay extra! Click here to learn more and get a $20 credit. 

We’ve used Project Fi since 2016 and this plan has helped us save money when we traveled internationally. We currently use both Google Project Fi and the Mobifone SIM card in Vietnam. 

11. Motorbikes are everywhere.

You know that you’re in Vietnam when you see a sea of motorbikes on crowded roads. 

Driving a motorbike is a way of life in Vietnam. If you know how to drive a motorbike, you can rent one to drive around the cities. They’re affordable and will be around $5-$7 USD per day to rent one. 

Follow these rules: Remember to wear your helmet, signal when turning, follow the road roads, and use your horn to warn others. Don’t be obnoxious and honk crazily on the road. 

Note: Technically, you’re breaking the law by driving a motorbike without a license. You may get pulled over by the police and have to pay a “fee” (also referred to as “coffee money” since it’s a small fee to pay the police). 

If you do not know how to drive a motorbike, it’s not a problem. You can utilize public transportation, taxis, or hire a motorbike driver via the Grab app. 

Do not attempt to learn how to drive a motorbike for the first time in Vietnam. This is a prime example of what NOT to do in Vietnam! You will get in an accident and may hurt others.

Heavy traffic with cars and motorbikes in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Motorbike traffic is typical during the rush hours in Ho Chi Minh City.

12. Grab is your go-to app for taxis.

You won’t have any issues with finding taxis in the major cities. The reputable taxi companies that use the meter are Vinasun (white-colored taxi) and Mai Linh (green-colored taxi). You won’t need to negotiate with the taxi driver in advance. Be aware of fake taxis that look similar to these two taxi companies. 

A cheaper and reliable option is to use Grab , the most popular ride-hailing app in Southeast Asia. The Grab app is the same interface as Uber with the starting and ending location, cost of fare, and your choice of vehicle (motorbike, car, or van). 

The transaction can also be cashless as you can use your credit card to pay for the ride. If you need to use cash, ensure that you have the exact change since the drivers often do not carry cash. 

Grab is available for pick-up and drop-off at the airport, so you’ll want to get this app ahead of time. 

Other ride-hailing apps are GoJek and Be. We haven’t tried these options yet. 

Note: Grab is only available in larger, major cities. In the smaller cities and towns, you’ll need to use taxis.  

Check out our post on the important Vietnam travel apps to download . 

13. transportation is reliable and cheap around vietnam. .

One of the best reasons to travel to Vietnam is the budget-friendly transportation options. In the larger cities, you can use taxis, ride a bus, and ride-hailing app, such as Grab. 

If you’re traveling long distances, you can take a short plane ride (no more than 2 hours one-way) to visit other cities in Vietnam. This will cost more, but will allow you to get to your next destination faster. 

Other options include taking an overnight sleeper bus, overnight train , or a minivan to the next destination. These options take longer due to the road traffic so you’ll need to account for the extra time. For example, going from Ho Chi Minh City to Dalat will take 5-6 hours (longer if it’s a holiday weekend). 

You can also hire a private driver as foreigners are not able to rent cars. The road conditions and heavy traffic is not ideal for foreigners to drive through. With a private driver, you can arrange your itinerary in any way you’d like. 

Read more about the various transportation ways to travel around Vietnam . 

Inside of the Vietnam overnight bus (sleeper bus). There are three rows of seating with two levels.

This is what the inside of the overnight/sleeper buses look like in Vietnam.

14. Lock up your luggage when taking overnight transportation.

If you take overnight trains or sleeper buses, don’t forget to lock up your luggage. You can also bring valuables with you onto the bus and train. 

Large luggage and bags will be placed in the undercarriage of the bus and you won’t see it until the end of your trip. As with the trains, we’ve only taken the overnight train with 4-beds and didn’t have any issues with luggage storage on the floor.  

15. Do not bring strong-smelling foods inside buses and hotels.

You may see signs around buses, trains, and hotels to not bring pungent foods such as durian and jackfruit .

While we love the smell of these tropical fruits , others do not like it and will complain about the smell. We had this happen when the driver asked who had the jackfruit on the bus on our way from Vung Tau to Ho Chi Minh City.

Some hotels will charge you for bringing these fruits so please be aware.

16. When staying at a hotel or guesthouse, the front desk will keep your passport.

In Vietnam, hotels and guesthouses need to register overnight guests with the police and will need your passport information. Larger hotels will take a photocopy of your passport and immediately give back your passport. 

The smaller hotels and guesthouses will keep your passport during your stay and use it as “collateral” until payment at check-out. 

We know. It’s difficult to give up your passport since it’s your only official documentation in the country. 

There are two workarounds that you can try: 

  • Give a copy of your passport to the front desk to see if they’ll accept it. 
  • Or, you can pay for your hotel room at check-in and then ask for the passport back. 

We haven’t had any issues with leaving the passport with the hotel.

17. Vietnam uses a lot of cash.

Cash is king when you’re in Vietnam. Vietnam uses Vietnamese dong (VND/₫) as its currency. The bills come in denominations of 200₫, 500₫, 1,000₫, 2,000₫, 5,000₫, 10,000₫, 20,000₫, 50,000₫, 100,000₫, and 500,000₫. As of June 2021, $1 USD = 22,954 VND. 

You’ll want to have the smaller bills from 5,000 VND to 50,000 VND, especially if buying street food. 

It’s rare to find the 200₫ and 500₫ bills so if you come across one, feel free to keep it as a souvenir. 

Must Know Local Tip: Be careful between the 20,000 VND (blue bill) and the 500,000 VND (teal bill) as the colors are similar. It’s easy to mix up the bills as it’s the difference between $.86 and $21.78 USD, respectively. 

We suggest that you place the 500,000 VND in a separate spot in your wallet so you don’t accidentally give out the wrong bill or get swindled with your change.

18. ATMs do not give a lot of cash.

ATMs are plentiful in the major cities, yet they don’t give that much money. You’ll need to do multiple transactions to get a large sum of money. 

Stop by well-known banks for cash, such as Vietcombank and Techcombank. For international ATM cards, the maximum ATM withdrawal is 2-3 million VND per transaction ($87 – $131 USD) + minimum 50,000 VND ($2.18) transaction fee . 

If you’re from the U.S, we suggest signing up for the Charles Schwab ATM card . It’s our go-to card whenever we travel internationally. The best feature about this card is that the ATM fees are refunded back to you at the end of the month. You get to save money when you travel!

Tip: Don’t forget to contact your bank before you leave so your ATM card isn’t locked for fraudulent activities. 

**If you do not have an ATM, you can exchange your money at the gold shops or money exchange shops. You’ll tend to get better rates at the gold shop, especially around Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City. 

19. You can use your credit cards in large cities. 

Credit cards are accepted at hotels and more established restaurants in the main cities. Some places may charge an extra 3% fee for using a credit card. It’s best to have extra cash just in case the credit card machine isn’t working.

20. Tipping isn’t necessary.

Whenever you have a service such as getting a haircut, eating at a restaurant, etc, tipping is not required. 

It’s a nice gesture if you do decide to tip as the person providing the service makes a low wage. Feel free to round up or give 10% of the bill amount as a tip. If you do give a tip, give it directly to the person who gave you the service. 

The nicer sit-down restaurants will add a 10% VAT and a minimum of a 5% service charge fee to your bill. 

If you go on a tour, it’s recommended to give a tour guide a small tip. We give about 10% to the tour guides and porters (if we go on overnight hikes). 

21. Trash is a huge issue around the country.

Vietnam has beautiful landscapes and scenery, but there is often trash everywhere. Unfortunately, it’s not the cleanest country to visit as every city has a trash issue. 

In the larger cities, there are street cleaners who pick up trash and sweep the roads. You’ll often see trash collected piled up along the sidewalks and then they get cleaned up in the middle of the night. 

In the countryside and on Vietnam’s islands , there isn’t any way for the trash to be disposed of. Most of the time, it gets burned, is thrown into the water, or is a collection spot forever.  

Don’t be surprised to see a bonfire light up at 5pm which is often the trash burning time. It will stink. We even see trash burning in Ho Chi Minh City too! 

Unfortunately, there is a lack of education regarding trash and how to properly throw things away, and the lack of facilities for pick-up. 

The recommendation is to reduce your waste as much as you can and throw things away in a trash can. 

22. Say “no” to plastic!

Plastic is a huge issue in Vietnam as it’s everywhere. When you buy a plastic water bottle from the convenience store, you get a plastic straw and a plastic bag. Sometimes the water bottle has a plastic security wrapper around the cap. 

To lessen your plastic waste, say “no” ( Khîng in Vietnamese; sounds like “comb” in English) to plastic items.

Instead, bring a reusable water bottle and a reusable tote bag whenever you go shopping . You can also bring reusable utensils to lessen your usage. 

23. Do not drink tap water.

It’s not recommended to drink tap water in Vietnam as the water isn’t the cleanest. There is small debris that appears in the water. 

Many locals do not drink tap water and order 20 liters of filtered water. You’ll see the large blue 20 L water bottles getting delivered around the larger cities. 

During your stay in Vietnam, ask your accommodation if they have filtered water available to refill your reusable water bottle for a small fee. Otherwise, you’ll need to buy water (There are 1-liter plastic water bottles available. We know. It’s another plastic bottle). 

Note: You can use tap water to brush your teeth. We’ve been using the tap water to brush our teeth and haven’t had any issues with it yet.

24. The ice is safe in Vietnam.

At restaurants, the canned sodas and beer are not refrigerated so everyone receives a beer mug with ice to chill drinks.  

Don’t worry. The ice is perfectly safe to consume in your drinks and Vietnamese desserts (ie: chù). Many local vendors and restaurants have ice delivered to their location daily. 

You’ll notice that the ice for drinks is cylindrical with a hole in the middle. It’s made by an ice manufacturer and they use clean, filtered water to make the ice. 

Che, Vietnamese sweet dessert, has layers of ice, coconut cream, jellies, and fruits

Che (Vietnamese dessert) has shaved ice to cool off the jellies and fruits.

25. During lunchtime, many of the local attractions are closed.

Vietnam enjoys their time off for lunchtime so you’ll see many attractions closed from 11:30am to 1:30pm. Before you visit a local attraction, double-check the opening times since you wouldn’t want to have your stay cut short.

26. Practice your bargaining skills when you go shopping in Vietnam.

If you’re at a local market and you’re interested in buying something, don’t forget to bargain. Most of the time, the prices aren’t marked. The first price stated is often way overpriced, so you can bargain for half the amount listed and go on from there. You’re welcome to walk away at any time. 

Some sellers believe in this superstition as the first customer is often the lucky sale of the day. You may get a good price on an item as the first customer. 

Please do not bargain for the sake of bargain and don’t expect to buy anything. The sellers need to make a living too!

Check out what Vietnam souvenirs to buy here. 

Vietnamese conical hats with various embroidered designs such as red flowers and women in ao dai, Vietnamese outfits.

Don’t forget to barter if you want souvenir items such as these conical hats. Photo credit: Oleksandra Chernyak via Scopio Photos

27. Book day tours when you arrive.

Want to go on a day tour in Vietnam? It’s recommended to book them when you’ve arrived at your destination. The reason is that your itinerary can change at any time and you have the flexibility to decide which dates to go on a tour. 

You can stop by any tour agency in your designated city or check out Klook or Get Your Guide for any deals. If you use Klook or Get Your Guide, it’s recommended to book 2-3 days ahead of your tour date to confirm your spot. 

28. Enjoy all the food in Vietnam!

You’ll need some stretchy pants since the food in Vietnam is delicious! Food is available for all budgets. 

You can choose affordable street food, such as phở , bĂĄnh cuốn , and bĂĄnh mĂŹ and sit on the squatty plastic chairs on a sidewalk or sit at a small local shop and enjoy a meal. This can set you back about 10,000-50,000 VND ($.44-$2.20). So cheap!

Otherwise, you can sit down at a restaurant or on a rooftop restaurant and eat your heart out. 

Some of the unique food experiences include trying fish sauce (the favorite condiment of Vietnam), sweet chili sauce, all the street food, or trying some of the pungent fruits (ie: durian and jackfruit).

** Heads up : If you have a peanut allergy , Vietnamese food uses peanuts as a topping or as peanut sauce. Please ask the waiters and check the menu to see if dishes have peanuts.

There are also plenty of Western-style restaurants available throughout the country. We found some delicious spots to try in Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang , and Danang such as Italian food, pizzas , burgers , brunch, and desserts . 

Japanese food is also highly recommended.

A table filled with a variety of seafood such as grilled prawns, shellfish, scallops, and oysters at Oc Dao in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Vietnamese people love eating shellfish and seafood for dinner.

29. Vietnam is vegetarian and vegan friendly. 

Vegetarian and vegan travelers won’t have any issues finding food in Vietnam. 

Buddhism is one of the religions practiced in Vietnam so there are many vegetarian and vegan places in every city and town . Look for the word “ chay ” in the signs as it means “vegan.” 

You can find these small and local shops that sell rice ( cÆĄm chay ) with 10 to 20 vegetarian choices from stir fry tofu, stuffed bittermelon, vegetables, and more or vegetarian noodles. The food is delicious and cheap! Expect to pay around 20,000-30,000 VND ($.87-$1.30) for a plate of rice with sides and a bowl of soup. 

Just know that the 1st and 15th of the month tends to be the busiest times for vegetarian places as many people eat vegetarian/vegan on these days. 

If you need a change in flavors, there are Western vegetarian and vegan restaurants. You’ll find these options in the cities such as Danang and Ho Chi Minh City.  Check out our list of vegetarian and vegan restaurants in HCMC here .

A Vietnamese vegetarian dish with faux meat, rice noodles, lettuce, bean sprouts, and vegan fish sauce.

Here is a vegetarian meal with rice noodles and faux meat.

30. Food portions are smaller than in the U.S.

Vietnam has some incredible foods to try. If you’re a large eater and dining at a Vietnamese restaurant, you’ll need to order a few dishes in each meal to get full . Or, you can consider visiting multiple restaurants and try a wide variety of foods. 

Western restaurants tend to have larger portions so you can just order 1 dish. 

31. Relax in the afternoon (or at any time) at a coffee shop.

Coffee lovers will love trying Vietnamese coffee here. Since the afternoons tend to be hot and humid, it’s perfectly acceptable to sit at a coffee shop and relax in the air-conditioning (or sit outside and watch the traffic pass by). 

The chain coffee shops are Trung NguyĂȘn Legend , Highlands Coffee , PhĂșc Long and Tea , and Cộng CĂ  PhĂȘ , but there are thousands of places that you can visit. 

Try ice coffee with condensed milk ( cĂ  phĂȘ sữa đá), iced coffee (cĂ  phĂȘ đen đá), or egg coffee ( cĂ  phĂȘ Trứng) . The coffee shop can also have teas available as Vietnam grows a lot of tea, such as in the Bao Loc area . 

You can drink coffee at any time of the day, even at 3:00am. There are sidewalk vendors and 24-hour coffee shops that will be open for you to enjoy your caffeine. 

In Dalat, Vietnam, enjoy iced Vietnamese coffee in a coffee phin with a lake in the background.

Enjoy Vietnamese coffee, especially when it’s in a coffee phin.

32. Squat toilets are still used today and bring tissue.

The public bathrooms (ie: at the bus stops) may have squat toilets. All you need to do is step on the pedestal, have your feet on the outside of the bowl, squat, and do your business.

Since plumbing is limited, there will be a bucket of water with a pail instead. Once you’re done, “flush” the toilet by using the pail to pour water down the toilet. 

Also, many of the public toilets do not have toilet paper. It’s recommended to bring toilet paper or tissue with you. Or, you can use the bum spray if you don’t have paper but it’ll get wet everywhere. 

You may need to pay a small fee to use the bathroom, such as 2,000 VND ($.08).

Note: You may need to bring soap or portable soap sheets and/or hand sanitizer as well. 

33. Do not flush the toilet paper.

Vietnam’s pipes are old and cannot handle toilet paper and tissue flushed down the toilet. You’ll notice signs in restaurants and many places to remind you to not flush the paper. Place the waste in the plastic waste bin next to the toilet.

34. Go on a hike in Vietnam.

Did you know that Vietnam has some incredible hiking trails to explore? If you’re an avid hiker, then you need to add one hike to your Vietnam itinerary. There are trails from North to South Vietnam and the difficulties vary depending on your level. 

The bucket list hike is Mount Fansipan in North Vietnam’s Sapa area . It’s the tallest mountain in Vietnam at 3,143 meters (10,312 feet) . Currently, the peak is a tourist attraction called Fansipan Legend so many people take the cable car up. Therefore, you can have the trail all to yourself. Read more about hiking Mount Fansipan in 1 day here. 

South Vietnam has some cool hikes to explore. The highest peak in South Vietnam is Black Virgin Mountain ( NĂși BĂ  Đen ) at 986 meters (3,235 feet). It’s a challenging hike, yet a fun day trip away from Ho Chi Minh City . Read more about hiking Black Virgin Mountain in a day here. 

Check out our post on the top Vietnam hiking trails to experience. 

Jackie Szeto and Justin Huynh, Life Of Doing, stand behind the Fansipan 3143 meters summit sign and hold up their Fansipan finisher's medal

Hiking Mount Fansipan is one of the bucket list things to do when you’re in Vietnam.

35. Visit one waterfall while you’re in Vietnam.

We can’t help but share how awesome the waterfalls are in Vietnam. Some of the best in Asia ! 

Many of the waterfalls are located in the Central Highlands in the Dalat area , so you can easily see one or a couple while you’re there. Check out Pongour Waterfall, Elephant Waterfall, and Tam Tham Waterfall (a hidden one).

You can also see waterfalls in the North Vietnam-China border, such as Ban Gioc Waterfall. It’s a bucket list worthy waterfall to check out. 

Read our post on Vietnam’s best waterfalls here. 

Pongour Waterfall is one of the recommended waterfalls to visit in Dalat. The multi-tiered cascading falls is a unique aspect of this waterfall.

Pongour Waterfall in Dalat is a must visit waterfall to check out.

36. Add a theme park to your first visit.

If you have the chance to visit a theme park during your first time in Vietnam, we highly recommend it. 

They’re fun for children and families and provide a different experience to the typical itinerary. Some of the theme parks have a water park too, so it’s a great way to cool off from the heat. 

Two of the largest amusement park companies are Sun World and Vin Group. 

Here are some theme parks that we visited: 

  • Sun World Ba Na Hills in Danang
  • Sun World Danang Wonders in Danang
  • Sun World Fansipan Legend in Sapa (We hiked to the summit)
  • Sun World Ba Den in Tay Ninh (We hiked to the summit)
  • VinWonders Nha Trang in Nha Trang
  • Suoi Tien Theme Park in Ho Chi Minh City

Read our detailed Vietnam theme park guide here.

37. vietnamese lunar new year ( táșżt ) is the largest holiday celebrated in the country..

If you have the chance to visit Vietnam during the Lunar New Year ( Táșżt ), it’s one of the prettiest and festive times of year. Every year, the holiday date changes as it’s based on the Lunar calendar so it’s between January-March. 

Many cities celebrate the New Year with a large flower display in the center of town and have the zodiac animal decorations everywhere. Shopping centers and restaurants also join in with the festivities. 

In Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown (District 5), there are streets selling Lunar New Year decor and lanterns. The entire street brightens up with the red and gold decor. 

This holiday season is considered the busiest time to travel as many people return to their hometown. Hotels and transportation (especially trains and flights) need to be booked in advance. Prices will be higher so it’s something to consider for the budget travelers. 

Read more about the Tet traditions here . 

Year of the Ox flower displays for the Vietnamese Tet Lunar New Year in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam in 2021

When visiting Vietnam during the Tet holiday, you’ll see some beautiful flower displays based on the zodiac animal.

38. In larger cities, sidewalks are used for motorbike parking.

For those who love walking around the big cities, you’ll notice that Vietnam’s big cities aren’t as pedestrian-friendly . Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi have narrow roads so many of the sidewalks are used for motorbike parking instead of for walking.  

Just be careful when walking around the motorbikes and on the street. You may see another motorbike headed your way in the opposite direction!

39. Cross the street like a champion.

Crossing the streets in Vietnam is not for the faint of heart. It’s one of the most intense things to do as a first-timer in Vietnam, especially during high traffic times.

It’s like playing the game of chicken. Who will win – you or the vehicle? About 99% of the time, large vehicles, cars, and motorbikes will not stop for pedestrians at a crosswalk. The crosswalks are more of “a suggestion” to use, but many people cross anywhere they need to.

Below are our tips on how to cross any street in Vietnam:

  • To ensure your safety, look both ways for traffic. Motorbike drivers do drive in the opposite direction of traffic.
  • Walk very slowly and watch for vehicles. You can predict how the vehicles will travel and which way they will go around you. 
  • Do not stop in the middle of the road or run across the road since the vehicles cannot predict your movement. Just keep going. 
  • If you see a bus or a car coming at you, do not attempt to walk in front of it. Stay put in the middle of the street for a few seconds until it passes.
  • Once you’ve crossed the street, take a sigh of relief. You made it! 

40. Wear a mask outside.

Vietnamese people have been wearing masks outside for years to protect themselves from dust, pollution, and sunlight. When riding a motorbike, you’ll especially want to wear a mask since the fumes and dust are everywhere.

Due to the pandemic, many cities and buildings require guests to wear a mask and have a temperature check. Otherwise, there is a heavy fine for not wearing one. 

Final Thoughts

We hope you liked reading through this post on practical travel tips to Vietnam and feel more prepared on your first trip to Vietnam. Feel free to ask a question in the comment box below if you have more inquiries on any of these travel tips. 

If you’ve been to Vietnam before, what other tips do you have for traveling to Vietnam?

Like this post? Pin it to your Vietnam Pinterest board.

Green rice terraces of Sapa, Vietnam (top photo); a woman wearing a white dress overlooking a temple area in Ninh Binh, Vietnam

Featured photo credit: Michele Naideck via Scopio Photos

Pin photo credit from top to bottom: Michele Naideck via Scopio Photos; Jessica May via Scopio Photos

travelling to vietnam tips

I'm Jackie - world explorer, hiker, and wanderer. I love planning things whether it is a trip or an upcoming event, exploring nature, hiking up mountains, and seeing new places. I'm notorious for getting lost, so you may see me circling a place a few times.

11 Breathtaking Waterfalls in Vietnam to Check Out

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Home » Southeast Asia » Vietnam » ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Vietnam | Destinations & Tips for 2024

ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Vietnam | Destinations & Tips for 2024

Are you looking for a destination with equal parts adventure, culture, and delicious food? Look no further than a solo trip to Vietnam !

The Vietnamese are known for being super friendly, so it’s no wonder this is a favorite destination for solo travelers. Don’t be surprised if you start a conversation with a local and spend the day chatting over Vietnamese coffee!

There are so many benefits to solo travel. Firstly, you don’t need to pander to anyone else’s itinerary. You get to do whatever you want, without anyone judging your choices.

Secondly, traveling solo is a character-building adventure like no other. You’ll be surprised by how empowered and independent you will feel after navigating a foreign country alone (with only Google Translate as your trusty sidekick).

Vietnam is a melting pot of history, cuisine, and gorgeous natural scenery – from beaches to lush landscapes, rolling rice terraces, and exquisite nature reserves. Oh, and did I mention that the exchange rate will almost certainly be in your favor?

Let’s dive into your ultimate guide to traveling Vietnam on your own!

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5 Things to Do in Vietnam When Traveling Solo

5 best solo destinations in vietnam, the best travel apps for solo travel in vietnam, safety tips for solo travelers in vietnam, tips for solo traveling in vietnam, how to meet people when solo traveling in vietnam, final thoughts for your solo vietnam trip.

Vietnam has an adventurous spirit, often shared by the travelers who visit here. Whatever your interests – you’ll find a treasure trove of fantastic activities based on culture, history, or natural beauty. It wasn’t easy narrowing it down, but here is my top 5 best Vietnam solo travel suggestions:

travelling to vietnam tips

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1. Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels

Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels

The Cu Chi Tunnels are underground passages built during the Vietnam War. The tunnels shine a light on Vietnam’s wartime past, as well as the resilience of its people. The tunnels played a significant role during the Vietnam War as a base of operations and hiding spot for Viet Cong soldiers. 

Taking a Cu Chi Tunnels tour makes for a fascinating day trip from Ho Chi Minh and is a great opportunity to meet friends, but is not recommended for those with claustrophobia! The tunnels stretch for miles and include spaces that were used for living, storage, cooking, and even as hospitals. Get ready to crawl! 

2. Spend a Night in an Authentic Junk at Ha Long Bay

Don’t miss the chance to spend a night on an authentic junk (sailing boat) in Ha Long Bay. It’s a solo traveler’s dream, offering a serene escape from the country’s busy cityscapes. 

Take a moment to relax and unwind from your travels while you watch a breathtaking sunset over the misty karsts.

3. Watch a Show at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater

Puppet shows don’t only have to be for children! The magic of Vietnamese culture comes to life through the unique water puppetry at the Thang Long Theater. 

This is a must-do for solo travelers in Vietnam looking for a taste of culture. The intricate puppets bring age-old tales to life against a backdrop of traditional music and sparkling waters. It’s an unmissable cultural experience! 

4. Sip on a Bowl of Pho at the Hoi An Night Market

I have really highlighted the street food scene in Vietnam, and for good reason! A trip to the Hoi An Night Market is a feast for your senses. Join the communal dining scene, engage with locals, and sample some authentic pho. 

This iconic dish is a steaming bowl of Vietnamese soup featuring delicate rice noodles and an aromatic broth infused with local spices. The best part about pho in Vietnam is that you can customize your dish! Choose to add fresh herbs, a squeeze of lime, or a dash of Sriracha. As you sip the broth, you will quickly understand why pho is the heart and soul of Vietnamese cuisine.

5. Experience the Power of Nature at the Ban Gioc Waterfalls

Power of Nature at the Ban Gioc Waterfalls

The Ban Gioc Waterfalls are any nature-lover’s paradise. Nestled in a lush landscape near the border of China and Vietnam, these majestic falls are truly breathtaking! 

The roar of crashing water rushing over the cascading terraces is a sound you won’t soon forget. The journey to the waterfalls is an adventure in itself. Join a multi-day organized tour to best experience the falls or are looking for a more convenient way to explore.

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Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

Whether exploring bustling cities or the gorgeous countryside, traveling in Vietnam is always an adventure. Read on for my recommendations of places not to be missed:

Everyone backpacking in Vietnam should visit Hoi An . It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site – so it’s no wonder it feels like stepping into a storybook. This city on Vietnam’s central coast has well-preserved architecture and a unique atmosphere – including the iconic lantern-lit streets. From mouth-watering street food around every corner to tailors who can whip up custom-made outfits in no time – you’re in for a budget-friendly treat.

As mentioned, Hoi An’s street food scene is legendary. Visit the Hoi An Night Market, and be sure to try a crispy banh mi roll or a spring roll fresh out of the fryer. Once you’re full to the brim with delicious street food, why not join a traditional lantern-making class?

A person sitting next to the river in Hoi An, Vietnam

You can’t say you’ve visited Hoi An without joining a sunset boat ride on the Thu Bon River. The twinkling lights of boats against the backdrop of fiery oranges and pinks as the sun dips below the horizon is pure magic.

Ideal for a solo trip to Vietnam, SnapStay Hoi An is within walking distance of the ancient town. This hostel has a beautiful rooftop bar looking over the city lights – it’s the perfect place to connect with other travelers. 

Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is another UNESCO World Heritage site not to be missed. It is known for its iconic towering limestone rock formations that jut out from the emerald waters.

Join an affordable boat cruise for the day, or stay overnight on a traditional Vietnamese junk (a type of traditional sailboat, and by no means junk!). Alternatively, if your arms are up for it, explore the bay yourself by hiring a kayak. For the early birds, a sunrise over the magically misty bay is an unmissable experience.

Rock island in Halong bay Vietnam

The culinary scene in Ha Long is a seafood extravaganza! Sample the fresh catch of the day, from prawns to fish and even squid – all without breaking the bank. Dine outside and enjoy the fresh sea air for a truly Vietnamese experience.

Ha Long Fancy Hostel has friendly English-speaking staff and an in-house travel agent who will happily help you organize your activities. It’s located on the mainland at the gateway to the majestic bay and is a top place to stay for those traveling solo in Vietnam.

Hanoi is LEGENDARY. Vietnam’s capital city is one of my personal favorite cities in the world. It’s only a two to three-hour drive inland from Ha Long Bay. Once again, there is an abundance of affordable great hostels , and budget-friendly street food reigns supreme here. It can be somewhat chaotic as a large city, but you will find respite from the hustle and bustle in Hanoi’s numerous temples and green spaces.

Hanoi is a place of contrasts – where ancient temples stand alongside the vibrant pulse of modern life. The perfect blend of tradition and buzz! 

Turtle Tower on Hoan Kiem Lake in Old quarter Hanoi

Be sure to visit the Old Quarter – with its maze-like alleys, craft stores, and quirky cafes. When you’re ready for a moment of zen, find your way to the Hoan Kiem Lake – an oasis between the continuous honking of motorbikes.

In the heart of the Old Quarter, Old Quarter View Hanoi Hostel is a superb spot to stay, featuring free walking tours, local cooking classes, and a daily happy hour with free beer! What’s not to love?

Sa Pa is a trekking paradise and a must-visit for any nature-loving and adventurous travelers. Located in the country’s north, it is home to breathtaking rice terraces, and fascinating local villages dotted between misty mountains. There are plenty of treks and hiking options available which, luckily, cater to all skill and fitness levels (phew!). 

The locals here are passionate about sharing their customs and culture. You may enjoy learning some local weaving techniques or tasting a traditional home-cooked meal. Markets like Sa Pa Market or the Bac Ha Sunday Market are host to a plethora of handmade crafts, textiles, and unique souvenirs to take home.

Trekking in Sa Pa Vietnam

Sa Pa has many beautiful natural wonders for adventurous solo travelers in Vietnam to explore – including the Silver Waterfall and the iconic Love Waterfall. For unbeatable views, join a challenging trek (or opt for the cable car instead) to the top of Fansipan Mountain – known as the ‘Roof of Indochina.’ Treat yourself to a massage or herbal bath at a local spa to unwind after this active adventure.

Saigonese Trekking Hostel is a great hostel option in central Sa Pa. The friendly staff will be ready and waiting to assist you with your trekking bookings.

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s most populous city, situated in the country’s Southern region. This vibrant metropolis, formerly known as Saigon (and still lovingly called this by locals), boasts an eclectic mix of modern skyscrapers and colonial-era architecture. This combined with a visit to the War Remnants Museum to delve into the city’s unique past provides a wonderfully diverse HCMC travel itinerary .

This isn’t the first or last time I will mention affordable and delicious street food in this article, but it really is a Vietnamese staple! Chat with curious street vendors, and be sure to sample a Vietnamese iced coffee. As with other major Vietnamese cities, you’ll find many bustling market streets where the unrelenting sound of motorbike honks becomes unnoticeable.

Notre Dame Cathedral in Ho chi minh city Vietnam

Saigon Authentic Hostel is a perfect place to stay to connect with fellow travelers. Ask at the hostel tour desk for recommendations for a day trip to the Mekong River Delta – where you’ll find lush landscapes and picturesque floating markets. Another fascinating day trip from Ho Chi Minh is to the Cu Chi tunnels.

  • Hostelworld : Your go-to for booking hostels and backpackers
  • Booking.com and Airbnb: Ideal for finding hotel and bed and breakfast options
  • Couchsurfer: An exciting option for budget travelers to meet locals, but not recommended for solo female travelers in Vietnam
  • GetYourGuide: Useful for lining up tours and day trips
  • Bumble, Hinge, and Tinder: Great for meeting singles and other solo travelers in your vicinity
  • Grab: Southeast Asia’s equivalent of Uber, especially useful in busy cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City
  • XE Currency: To keep track of currency conversions into the Vietnamese Dong
  • Vietnammm: A top app for ordering takeout food from local restaurants
  • Foody: To help you discover local restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls
  • ToursByLocals: To connect with local guides for personalized tours and experiences
  • Smart Bus HCMC: Info on public bus routes, schedules, and stops in Ho Chi Minh City
  • Vietnam e-Visa: The official app to apply for and manage your Vietnam visa application online
  • Vietnam Traffic Live: To get real-time traffic updates, handy for navigating the bustling streets of cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City
  • Holafly : An e-SIM application that allows you to download a data-only SIM card without installing a physical card

You should also consider joining Facebook groups specific to Vietnam’s travel and ex-pat scene- such as Backpacking Vietnam, Vietnam Travel Planning, or Hanoi Massive. 

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Traveling Vietnam alone will no doubt be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, but safety precautions are key. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places, and use a money belt to keep valuables close to you. 

While Vietnam is generally safe , solo female travelers in Vietnam are advised to stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially at night. Female travelers should also dress modestly to respect local customs. 

Travel by Scooter/ Motorbike in Vietnam

As always, opt for reputable accommodations and transportation options. Let someone know your whereabouts and plans by sharing your ‘live location.’ 

Remember the basics: avoid leaving drinks unattended, use official taxis, and trust your instincts – if a situation doesn’t feel right, there is usually a good reason.

Woman with stunning views of Halong Bay in Vietnam

  • Book yourself into some exciting hostels for at least 50% of your nights in the country. Vietnam is full of eccentric and affordable hostels – such as The One Hostel & Rooftop Pool Hanoi , which features a rooftop pool – perfect for cooling off and meeting fellow solo travelers. Alternatively, take the slide instead of the stairs at Meander Saigon in Ho Chi Minh. They also offer a free walking tour of the city every Sunday!
  • Pre-book a few activities and adventures to plan your trip around. As a solo traveler in Vietnam, this is also a great way to make new friends. It is also a fantastic way to safely explore the natural beauty that Vietnam has to offer. For the thrill-seekers out there; take a trip to the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park to explore the underground world of caves, including the largest cave in the world. If you prefer expansive views, consider an organized hike like this trekking through rice terrace fields tour.
  • Have flexibility in your itinerary. You want to allow yourself to go with the flow based on who you meet and what you discover along the way. I have no doubt that you will find the best hidden gems while exploring well beyond the popular tourist spots.
  • Plan your own trip. While extensive research is always useful – crafting an unforgettable trip comes down to your own interests and what you’d like to gain from your travels. Maybe you’d prefer a yoga retreat over an adventurous backpacking trek. The choice is yours! 
  • Be sure to join walking tours in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hoi An. Try and book a free walking tour through your hostel – it’s a great way to explore the bustling streets and learn about the history of where you are while gaining some valuable insider info and meeting new friends.
  • Get clued up on the diverse religious beliefs of locals in Vietnam. When visiting temples or sacred sites, dress modestly and respectfully to honor local customs and traditions. Solo female travelers in Vietnam should be especially aware of this.
  • Don’t be afraid to use friendship settings on dating apps like Hinge or Bumble to connect with like-minded travelers. You never know; your new backpacking bestie might be on the other side of the app!
  • Prepare for the weather . Vietnam is a long, skinny country that experiences a range of climates. Winters can be chilly, while summers are hot and humid. Central Vietnam has a rainy season, which brings some storms. A safe bet is to visit during the dry season.
  • Get good travel insurance! Good travel insurance is essential for solo backpackers, wherever you are going. If you’re on your own, make sure you’ve got your own back!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

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Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

People trekking in Vietnam

  • Be open and up for the task. The key to meeting people while traveling solo is to be friendly and approachable. Step outside your comfort zone and strike up a conversation. My usual ‘in’ is to ask another traveler to take my picture! 
  • Stay in a hostel. When deciding where to stay in Vietnam , I always opt for hostels. Not only are they dirt cheap, but this is a sure way to meet other solo travelers . Most hostels have communal spaces like bars and restaurants and also organize tours for guests to join.
  • Join group tours. This could be a free walking tour of a city or a more adventurous tour like a trek or river rafting excursion. Tours are a great way to meet other tourists with similar interests! 
  • Explore shared spaces. Coffee shops or communal workspaces are the perfect setting to meet other travelers. You’ll never meet anyone if you stay in your hotel room! 
  • Join a pub crawl or food tour. Delicious food and cold beers bring people together, right? Even if you aren’t a drinker, these food-based activities are a fun and relaxed way to connect with fellow explorers. 
  • Sign up for a few workshops. One of the best Vietnam solo travel tips is that the country offers fantastic skill-building classes like cooking and traditional crafts. Look out for ones that include communal dining at the end – where you enjoy the fruits of your labor with fellow participants.
  • Use social media and apps . Facebook is a great place to find events in your area, while dating apps can be switched to ‘friend mode’ to connect with others traveling solo.
  • Volunteer … Volunteering in Vietnam is elite! Not only will you walk away with the warm feeling of giving back, but you might gain a new like-minded friend, too.

Vietnam truly is a solo traveler’s paradise. There is something for everyone – foodies, adrenaline junkies, hikers, culture and history enthusiasts, and yoga and wellness advocates. It doesn’t hurt that travel, accommodation, and food in Vietnam are so affordable.

Vietnam is a cultural melting pot of influences that has been woven together over centuries. From ancient times, Chinese settlers brought tea and other cultural influences. The colonization of Vietnam by the French left behind a legacy of European architecture, baguettes, and even coffee culture!

If you’re worried about getting lost in translation, fear not! Google Translate and some good old-fashioned charades will become your new besties. The language barrier might seem like a challenge, but it also opens up opportunities for unexpected friendships.

The Vietnamese are also well known for their hospitality, for good reason. Locals are passionate about sharing their culture, history, and traditions – which makes for an immersive experience where you truly feel connected to the country and its people. 

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Vietnam solo travel today!

saigon vietnam

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Sasha

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Travel Tips To Vietnam That You Must Keep in Mind

1. english is not very commonly spoken here, 2. electricity, money and wi-fi.

Travel Tips To Vietnam

3. Be Prepared for the Weather

4. the roads are fairly safe.

Travel Tips to Vietnam

5. You Don't Have to Tip at Restaurants

Travel Tips To Vietnam

6. Make Sure you Adhere to Temple Etiquettes

7. napkins are not free, 8. the locals like to overcharge.

Travel Tips To Vietnam

9. Take your Visa Seriously

10. booking hotels and hostels online may not save money, 11. don't put your valuables on the table, 12. pay close attention to the money you receive, 13. be careful with street food.

Travel Tips To Vietnam

14. Book Your Train Tickets at the Station

This post was published by Sitara Kumbale

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I flew to Japan with my baby. Here's the travel advice that helped me survive the trip

Emily Siner

travelling to vietnam tips

Journalist Emily Siner went on a trip to Japan with her 8-month-old son and knew it would be daunting. What should she pack? What should she expect? Photo Illustration by Becky Harlan/NPR hide caption

Journalist Emily Siner went on a trip to Japan with her 8-month-old son and knew it would be daunting. What should she pack? What should she expect?

Last winter, my husband and I made the ambitious decision to fly 13 hours with our 8 month old for a two-week vacation around Japan.

We knew flying with a baby would be daunting. What if he has a meltdown on the airplane? What gear do we bring? How will he adjust to the 15-hour time change? And ... will we actually get to enjoy ourselves?

travelling to vietnam tips

Siner's husband and their 8-month-old son on the 13-hour flight to Tokyo. Siner says their baby loved watching other passengers on the plane. Emily Siner hide caption

Siner's husband and their 8-month-old son on the 13-hour flight to Tokyo. Siner says their baby loved watching other passengers on the plane.

Preethi Harbuck, author of the travel blog Local Passport Family and a mom of six agrees that taking a big trip with young children — that is, babies and toddlers under age 2 — isn't easy. But with the right preparation and mindset, it can also be fun for everyone. You may even be able to "connect with people and places in a new way that [you] wouldn't have been able to experience without kids," she says.

To help set parents up for success, Harbuck and Christine Sarkis, editor-in-chief of the travel website Family Vacationist , share tips on what to pack, how to overcome travel challenges and set realistic expectations.

Take a practice trip

travelling to vietnam tips

Before you pack your passports for a big international trip, try a shorter trip that's closer to home so you can work out the kinks of traveling with a young child. Photo Illustration by Becky Harlan/NPR hide caption

Before you pack your passports for a big international trip, try a shorter trip that's closer to home so you can work out the kinks of traveling with a young child.

The first step to preparing for a big trip is to take a smaller one, like an overnight trip somewhere close by. It can give you a sense of what it's like to travel with your little one and grow your confidence, says Harbuck. "Find what feels comfortable and keep practicing. It will become easier."

Luckily, my husband and I had a chance to take some shorter trips with our baby before going to Japan. When our baby was three months old, we stayed overnight at a cabin about a half hour away by car. A month later, we took an 8-hour road trip to Chicago to see family.

How to take better (and more distinctive) photos on vacation

How to take better (and more distinctive) photos on vacation

From these outings. I learned how important it was to pack a sound machine, which helps my baby fall asleep, and a portable diaper changing pad. I also learned that I didn't need to bring too many toys. My kid loved watching other people talk, walk and interact with each other.

So when we went to Japan, I put those lessons to use. I packed the essentials, left half the toys behind and made sure to sit in an aisle seat on the plane so that my baby, who sat on my lap, could get a good view of the passengers and stay entertained.

Make plans your future self will thank you for

When traveling with a baby or a toddler, everything becomes a little more complicated. There's a lot more to pack (more on that later) and a lot more considerations to make (like naps and kid-friendly meals, perhaps). So the key is to prioritize decisions that will simplify travel, says Sarkis. "Anything you can do to smooth your way [will make you] so happy with yourself."

Here are some planning decisions that our experts recommend.

Put your kid in their own plane seat. Many airlines allow kids under 2 to fly in your lap for a very low rate, sometimes even for free. While that can make travel more budget friendly, Harbuck says it's worth buying your child their own seat. Placing them in a car seat is the safest place for them to sit on an airplane, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. Plus, having your own seats can make long flights more comfortable for the both of you.

Consider their developmental stage. Keep in mind that your child's needs will change as they age. For example, if your kid is walking, it may be harder to "keep them busy and happy" on the airplane, says Sarkis. So you might enjoy your trip more if you choose a destination that's closer to home. Anticipate what stage they'll be in at the time of travel and plan accordingly.

Add more adults to the trip. My husband and I traveled with friends for part of our trip around Japan. They helped us carry luggage and held our baby while we ate. "If you have someone to trade off with, that's really helpful," says Sarkis.

7 tips to help you keep the peace when traveling with a group

7 tips to help you keep the peace when traveling with a group

Book a vacation rental. If you are traveling with a little one who still naps in the middle of the day or has an early bedtime, you may not want to book a single hotel room. Sarkis says she made that mistake on a trip once and had to bring pillows into the bathtub just to have a place to read after her kids went to bed. "Whereas in a vacation rental I could have sat on a couch."

Plan solo time. Carve out time for you and your travel partners to do things without the baby. On our trip to Japan, my husband and I decided we'd give each other as much time as we wanted in the guesthouse onsen , the heated communal bath, while the other watched our sleeping baby. Another night, we hired a babysitter so we could go out together and sing karaoke.

Pack well ... and lightly

It’s hard to travel light with a baby. So opt for the travel versions of strollers, cribs and car seats — they are often smaller and weigh less than the usual gear.

Credit: Becky Harlan/NPR

Portable cribs, high chairs, playpens and sleep canopies? There's no shortage of recommendations when it comes to choosing travel gear for your little one. But the No. 1 takeaway is to make sure "everything you're carrying is worth the stress of carrying it," says Sarkis.

Planning a trip? Here's how to pack like a pro

Planning a trip? Here's how to pack like a pro

Focus on the basic gear. At the minimum, your child will likely need a stroller or baby carrier to get around, a car seat for car trips and a safe place to sleep, like a portable crib. See if you can get travel versions of that gear, which are often lighter, smaller and easier to carry. Many airlines will let you check a stroller and a car seat for free, either before you go through security or at the gate. (If you do this, get some sort of carrying case to protect them.)

Cut down the big stuff ... There may be opportunities to leave some of that gear behind, says Sarkis. Check whether you can rent a stroller at your destination. Your accommodation may offer baby cribs. And some ridesharing apps may have vehicles outfitted with infant car seats.

... and the little stuff. "Kids live all around the world so you can access most of what you really, truly need" at your destination, says Harbuck. If your luggage is getting too full, consider buying diapers, wipes, formula or baby food when you land. In Japan, we did laundry halfway through our trip to minimize the clothing we had to pack.

Set your expectations

travelling to vietnam tips

Traveling with young children alters the nature of the experience. It's important to set realistic expectations for your trip. Photo Illustration by Becky Harlan/NPR hide caption

Traveling with young children alters the nature of the experience. It's important to set realistic expectations for your trip.

I'll be honest: There were a lot of moments on our trip when I felt overwhelmed and a bit disappointed. Like when my jet-lagged baby woke up crying at 1 a.m., 3 a.m. and somehow again at 3:30 a.m. — for two nights in a row.

Both Harbuck and Sarkis acknowledge that post-kid travel is harder in many ways. But there are a few things you can do to set yourself up for success.

Redirect your attention to the positive aspects of your journey. "If you're focused only on the challenges, you're going to miss the joys," says Sarkis. For me, it was delightful to witness my baby do new things in Japan. He ate new foods like udon, miso soup and smoked fish. He was mesmerized by the Ryoanji Temple's rock garden in Kyoto and even more mesmerized by the steady stream of tourists' faces to observe.

A flight expert's hot take on holiday travel: 'Don't do it'

A flight expert's hot take on holiday travel: 'Don't do it'

See drawbacks as opportunities. If you have to go back to your hotel twice a day to let your child nap, see it as a moment to read, journal or "recharge for the next thing you do," says Sarkis.

Look out for special ways your child is helping you connect with the world. On flights, our neighbors told us about their own children or nieces and nephews. In restaurants, servers would come over to coo at him and make conversation with us in the process, despite the language barrier.

And finally, give yourself some kudos. For us parents, traveling was a big priority for us before he was born, and the experience made us proud to realize that yes — even with a small child, we can still see the world.

The audio portion of this episode was produced by Andee Tagle. The digital story was edited by Malaka Gharib. The visual editor is Beck Harlan. We'd love to hear from you. Leave us a voicemail at 202-216-9823, or email us at [email protected].

Listen to Life Kit on Apple Podcasts and Spotify , and sign up for our newsletter .

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travelling to vietnam tips

When the U.S. entered World War I in 1917, Alma Foerster was assigned to the Red Cross Commission to Romania. The unit faced severe food shortages, extreme weather and typhus while establishing medical clinics. Forced by political unrest to leave Romania in March 1918, the Commission spent seven weeks traveling through Russia to safety in England. Foerster then found herself in Archangel, Russia, as part of a special relief commission. Despite devastating conditions, 37 degree-below temperatures and little equipment, they opened a hospital in record time. Dangerous travel conditions stopped the arrival of relief nurses and Foerster did much of the cooking herself and enlisted the help of local women for cleaning and sewing hospital articles. She was awarded the Florence Nightingale Medal in 1920, the highest international Red Cross distinction a nurse can receive, for her service to the sick and wounded in both peace and war.

travelling to vietnam tips

Red Cross volunteer Florence Bessie Skivens went to France during World War I as a searcher with the Home and Hospital Bureau. Florence arrived in Paris, France, on November 11, 1918, the day of the armistice. She began her Red Cross work at Evacuation Hospital 36 in Nantes, France. During her time there, Florence wrote letters to families of soldiers lost or injured during the war, collecting as much information as possible to keep the family informed. When she wasn’t collecting information or writing letters, she was providing support to the recovering soldiers by helping with social activities and even making treats for them. The work done by Florence and other searchers left a mark on the recovering soldiers ─ in her diaries and letters, she often mentions the soldiers visiting her and sending her letters once they left.

travelling to vietnam tips

There are almost 9,400 Americans buried at the Normandy American Cemetery above Omaha Beach in France. Among them is Elizabeth A. Richardson , who joined the American Red Cross in 1944 during World War II. Sent to England, she staffed a Clubmobile fitted with items such as coffee and doughnut-making equipment, magazines, newspapers, a phonograph and records. Like most Clubmobile volunteers, Richardson grew close to the soldiers with their stories of combat, fear, regrets. Liz wrote her parents: "If you only knew what combat does to these boys — not in the physical sense, although that's bad enough — but mentally." At the Le Havre airport on the morning of July 25, 1945, Liz, who was 27 years old, jumped into a two-seat military plane to fly to Paris. Near Rouen, France, the plane crashed, tragically claiming the lives of Liz and the pilot, Sgt. William R. Miller of the Ninth Air Force.

travelling to vietnam tips

Lois Laster served with the Red Cross during World War II. She directed recreation clubs for African American service members in England and Austria and, later, the first integrated club in Korea. Serving from 1944 through 1948, one of the clubs Laster was assigned to was about eight miles from the war front. "We never knew where the V-2s were going to go, it was frightening," said Laster, of Washington, D.C. "The people were almost devastated by bombs in my area. It was emotionally a little harrowing because we became so attached (to the troops and each other). We were not scared much. We were young and we were never going to die. We were well-protected." In later years, Lois volunteered weekly with the Red Cross Service to Armed Forces program and was a founding member and the president of the American Red Cross Overseas Association (ARCOA), an organization which served to renew and continue friendships created while in Red Cross service overseas.

travelling to vietnam tips

Juanita Morrow and Wilhemina Barrow , both from New York City, served as American Red Cross Donut Dollies in October 1945 in Maryville, France, where they served troops of the 27th Chemical Company after travelling 100 miles in a truck to deliver cookies, doughnuts and coffee. The Donut Dollies officially began traveling with American soldiers during World War II. After a Donut Dollie completed her training, she was sent overseas, where she would often operate a “Clubmobile,” which was a mobile army clubhouse that was able to travel directly to soldiers stationed at faraway bases or camps in the field.

travelling to vietnam tips

Helen Day Stevenson joined the Red Cross during the Korean War. Following training in Washington, D.C., she arrived in Japan in November 1950 and worked long days at a station military hospital at Johnson Air Base in Irumangawa, Japan, comforting and entertaining sick and injured soldiers. A few months later, Helen arrived at the American Red Cross club in Pusan, Korea. Thousands of soldiers visited the club every day, either heading to or returning from the front. Helen was also assigned to a Clubmobile to carry coffee and donuts to isolated units in the areas surrounding Pusan. She continued her work with the Red Cross until she left Korea for home in January 1952.

travelling to vietnam tips

Kathy Hoff joined the Red Cross in 1969 and spent the next year in Vietnam, offering morale support for the troops as a Donut Dollie. The Dollies would run recreation centers, put on programs to entertain soldiers and visit hospitals, which was difficult and heart-wrenching for Hoff. “As long as we could take the guys’ minds off the war, that was our main aspect of having them do these games. A lot of times I would just sit and talk. I did not like going to the hospital, because I had to smile and be cheerful, and seeing these guys that were my age and younger, and what they’ve been through . . . that was really challenging,” she said. Hoff’s Red Cross service continued with several deployments supporting disaster victims. She deployed for Hurricane Katrina and disasters in California, Iowa, Texas, and Hurricane Sandy in New York.

travelling to vietnam tips

Maggi Ware from Keene, New Hampshire, served as a Red Cross Clubmobile girl during the Vietnam War. In June 1967, she returns by helicopter from a visit with troops in a forward area. "I like the mobile visits to the forward units best," she says. "It's great to see the reaction of the men to our visits, especially the line troops who have been out in the remote forward areas for weeks and weeks without seeing anyone.

travelling to vietnam tips

Hospital Field Director Lucille Caldwell , of Chapel Hill, North Carolina unpacks recreation supplies sent by the Red Cross Chapter in Cleveland, Ohio, which acted as "Helpmate" for Red Cross staff assigned to the Third Field Hospital in Saigon, South Vietnam in February 1969. Red Cross chapters in many cities send supplies for use in Red Cross recreation programs across 18 hospitals and two hospital ships in Southeast Asia.

Women have played an important role in fulfilling the lifesaving American Red Cross mission since Clara Barton founded the organization more than 140 years ago. Known as the “Angel of the Battlefield,” Clara had cared for wounded soldiers during the Civil War before establishing the Red Cross in the U.S., where she was a visionary leader in serving those in need.

This March — which is recognized as both Red Cross Month and Women’s History Month — we take a look at some of the Red Cross women who stepped up to help throughout history, exemplifying Clara’s humanitarian spirit and courageously supporting U.S. service members in wartime.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org , or follow us on social media.

President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the first proclamation officially naming March as Red Cross Month

Florida is once again trying to break up with bad spring breakers

Miami beach and other destinations are ramping up policing and setting curfews. will it work this time.

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Florida beach towns and spring break have a long, sometimes sordid history. These days, the relationship is complicated.

Visitors pump billions of dollars into Florida’s economy; last year, an estimated 135 million people visited the state. But as high-schoolers, college students and adults flock to the state’s beaches starting in force this weekend, destinations from the Panhandle to the Southeast are preparing for the influx with drones, bag checks, beach closures and extra police. A lot of extra police.

“Like eight times the amount,” said Eric Feldman, the police chief in Central Florida’s New Smyrna Beach.

Miami Beach is taking the biggest swing at spring break, mounting a breakup campaign complete with cheeky video and a host of fines, fees, rules and vows for strict enforcement. The island city has struggled to curb violence during the spring holiday for the past few years, culminating in hundreds of arrests and two fatal shootings in 2023.

“This isn’t working anymore,” an actor says in an ad posted Friday on YouTube. “And it’s not us, it’s you. We just want different things.”

The video includes footage of last year’s violence and spells out what visitors can expect for the next few weeks: curfews, bag checks, restricted beach access, DUI checkpoints and $100 parking fees.

“Whatever it takes, because it’s time to move on,” the video says. “Maybe we can talk when you’re done with your spring break phase.”

Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner said in an interview that the city still wants visitors — and that the vast majority of tourists are just coming to have a good time without any trouble.

“The challenges we’ve faced are the number of people that come in during a short period of time and a very small area on Ocean Drive,” he said. “Unfortunately, a small percentage of people have created some serious problems for our city.”

On Tuesday, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) said in a news release that the state’s law enforcement agencies will be on hand to help in Miami Beach, as well as Daytona Beach and Panama City Beach.

“Florida’s a very welcoming state, we welcome people to come and have a good time. What we don’t welcome is criminal activity. What we don’t welcome is mayhem and people that want to wreak havoc on our communities,” DeSantis said at a news conference in Miami Beach Tuesday. “Make no mistake about it: If you’re coming here in order to enjoy Florida and ... have a good time, fine. If you’re coming for these other reasons, if you’re committing crimes, causing havoc, you are going to pay the price.”

About 35 miles north of Miami, Fort Lauderdale is taking a more welcoming approach — but still preparing with stepped-up policing. Officials are distributing Narcan nasal spray in case of overdoses and test cards that can show if a drink was spiked. Parking fees there, too, could climb to $100 if elected officials okay a measure Tuesday allowing it.

“It’s a pretty well-oiled machine we have in our city to make the experience a good experience,” said Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis. “Not just for kids, not just for spring breakers, but for families, too.”

Spring break has been a thorn in the side of Florida cities for decades. After years as a raucous destination, Fort Lauderdale officials decided in the mid-1980s that they were ready for their own spring breakup. The party moved north to Daytona Beach, where MTV showcased the party scene for years. The “Girls Gone Wild” series captured the scene in Panama City Beach in the early 2000s — to the destination’s dismay .

Today, the tourism bureau in Daytona Beach promotes the city as a “Family Friendly Spring Beach Vacation.” Fort Lauderdale kicked out partyers so effectively that it became “kind of a ghost town,” Trantalis said.

“Miami is going through the same experience that the city of Fort Lauderdale had 40 years ago,” he said. “It’s basically pressing that reset button, and I think that’s what Miami Beach is trying to do today.”

Thanks to school calendars, spring break is generally predictable. But the popularity of social media as an event planning tool has taken some cities by surprise. That was the case in New Smyrna Beach two years ago, when teenagers from cities farther inland spilled into the beach town unexpectedly thanks to Snapchat and TikTok, the police chief said.

“It got a little out of hand,” Feldman said. “They were up on the roof of the 7-Eleven throwing furniture.”

A temporary curfew for people under 18 has become permanent, and Feldman said the city’s plan is to “flood that area” with police to act as a deterrent for bad behavior.

“It’s not that we want them out of town,” he said. “We’re trying to constantly update the public safety plan to keep them safe.”

In Walton County in the Florida Panhandle, the goal is also to keep teens on vacation with family in check. Last year, they ended up in large crowds on the beach, said Corey Dobridnia, spokeswoman for the Walton County Sheriff’s Office.

She said there will be triple the number of deputies on duty in affected areas, with bike patrols and ATVs, keeping large groups from congregating.

“We’re just going to try to keep the crowds from impacting quality of life issues,” she said.

Panama City Beach , which allows people to drink alcohol on the shore most of the year, restricted drinking on the beach back in 2015, police chief J.R. Talamantez said.

“We don’t want this party atmosphere anymore,” he said. “But we’re realists. We can put whatever message we want out there, but we know people are still going to come for the spring season.”

Bars in the Northwest Florida city will close earlier this month, and some parts of the beach where crowds have gathered in the past will close overnight from mid-March through the end of April. In a community letter last month, he laid out an eight-point initiative for this year’s spring break period.

“It’s the idea that we’re a town of law and order all year long and 
 March and April is no exception,” he said. “That’s truly the only strategy that we have been able to see that works."

More travel news

How we travel now: More people are taking booze-free trips — and airlines and hotels are taking note. Some couples are ditching the traditional honeymoon for a “buddymoon” with their pals. Interested? Here are the best tools for making a group trip work.

Bad behavior: Entitled tourists are running amok, defacing the Colosseum , getting rowdy in Bali and messing with wild animals in national parks. Some destinations are fighting back with public awareness campaigns — or just by telling out-of-control visitors to stay away .

Safety concerns: A door blew off an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 jet, leaving passengers traumatized — but without serious injuries. The ordeal led to widespread flight cancellations after the jet was grounded, and some travelers have taken steps to avoid the plane in the future. The incident has also sparked a fresh discussion about whether it’s safe to fly with a baby on your lap .

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IMAGES

  1. VIETNAM TRAVEL ROUTE (2 WEEKS)

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  2. Only have 2 weeks in Vietnam? Here is the best Vietnam travel itinerary

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  3. Vietnam Travel Tips

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  4. Vietnam Travel Tips: 15 Things to Know Before Going to Vietnam

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  5. Best Vietnam Itinerary (3 Weeks or 2): The Epic Places You Need to

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  6. The Complete Guide to travel to Vietnam

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VIDEO

  1. Cost of travelling through Vietnam💰? #travel #vietnam

  2. Vietnam travel requirements đŸ‡»đŸ‡ł What all you need to travel to Vietnam #youtubeshorts #shortsvideo

  3. Backpacking Vietnam (Part One)

  4. Backpacking Vietnam (Part Two)

  5. Travelling Vietnam. #travelshorts #travelvlog #vietnamtravel

  6. Travelling Vietnam. #vietnam #việtnam #travel #nature #ilovevietnam #vietnamadventures #photography

COMMENTS

  1. 23 things to know before visiting Vietnam

    1. Pack for the climate. Perhaps the most important consideration when planning a trip to Vietnam is the weather. The south of the country sits firmly in the humid tropics, but the climate becomes increasingly temperate as you head north, and the highlands around Sapa can be downright chilly in winter. If you plan to visit both halves of the country, bring some clothes for the cooler highlands ...

  2. 31 Vietnam Travel Tips

    1. Don't forget your visa. The first, and most important, on this list of travel tips to Vietnam is your visa. Vietnam has strict entry requirements. Unlike backpacking in Thailand, where citizens from the UK and the USA get 30-day free visas on arrival, Vietnam requires that citizens from most countries have visa approvals before arriving ...

  3. TRAVEL to VIETNAM

    VIETNAM TRAVEL TIPS. The Vietnamese people are friendly, welcoming and hospitable towards travellers. It is a great destination to travel to in Southeast Asia. The people are very respectful and would like the same back from you. Here are a few things that you should know before going to Vietnam. GENERAL VIETNAM TRAVEL TIPS

  4. A guide to visiting Vietnam for the first time

    There's a lot to love about travelling in Vietnam, which stretches from the soaring mountains and fascinating ethnic groups of the north to the endless rice paddies and vibrant waterways of the Mekong Delta in the south, with more than 3000km of glorious coastline in between. Throw in a good transport infrastructure of buses, trains and flights ...

  5. Vietnam Travel Guide (Updated 2024)

    Vietnam Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips. Vietnam is a very affordable country. In fact, it's one of the cheapest in Southeast Asia. Even with the explosion of tourism in the last few years, it still remains very affordable. You'll be hard pressed to spend money if you're sticking to non-Western food, cocktails, and hotels.

  6. Vietnam Travel Tips: 15 Things to Know Before Going to Vietnam

    15 Travel Tips for Visiting Vietnam. 1. Arrange Your Visa Before Arriving in Vietnam. 2. It's Best to Fly in Vietnam. 3. Be Prepared for the Heat (and the Cold) 4. Learn Some Vietnamese.

  7. Essential First-Timer Tips for Travelling Vietnam

    3. Learn a Few Vietnamese Phrases đŸ—Łïž. When it comes to getting the most out of your backpacking trip, few tips are as valuable as learning some of the local language. Being able to talk to the locals will make your life way easier, no matter whether you are asking for directions or haggling in a market.

  8. 10 Things You Need To Know Before Visiting Vietnam

    Culture and nature from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. Kick off your trip in the capital of Hanoi, where we suggest visiting Ho Chi Minh's mausoleum, and seeing a traditional water puppet show.. From Hanoi, head to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay.Here 3000 forest-capped limestone islets rise from emerald waters that conceal countless caves and grottoes.

  9. 20 Genius Vietnam Travel Tips

    Brief summary of our Vietnam travel tips - KEEP READING for full details. Get set up with a local SIM card. Always check your change. Watch out for ATM charges. If you're going rural take plenty of cash. Avoid popular activities on public holidays. Respect local customs and culture. Look after your valuables.

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    Vietnam travel tips: money. 6. You need to get to know the colours and value of the notes
 money in Vietnam comes in thousands. Right now it's about 40,000 dong to the pound, meaning you're a millionaire with just £40. This is VERY confusing when it comes to paying and working out which notes to hand over. 7.

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    Purchase our award-winning guidebooks. Get to the heart of Vietnam with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance. Shop Our Guidebooks. Vietnam's best sights and local secrets from travel experts you can trust.

  12. 16 Vietnam Travel Tips You Need to Know ‱ Hoponworld

    16. You might need a travel adapter. The standard voltage in Vietnam is 220V with a frequency of 50Hz, and the typical plug types are A (2 vertical pins), C (2 round pins), and F (Schuko plug ). While these plug types are pretty standard in most countries, it's important to check the voltage compatibility before trying to plug your device ...

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    3 Get the approval letter on your email. It takes 1-2 working days (it's a weird list of random people who were granted entering Vietnam at the same time you did. Personal information shared with strangers yay!). 4 Make sure you pack the pre-approval letter, 2 photos, passport, the entry/exit form and cash.

  14. Vietnam Travel Tips: An Epic Guide to the Country [UPDATED]

    Traveling Vietnam can be as cheap or expensive as you want it to be. A decent budget in Vietnam would be anything from $25-30 a day. If you stick to just street food and hostels, traveling Vietnam is incredibly cheap. While the conversions can get a bit tricky (you're always a millionaire in Vietnam), you will eventually get used to it.

  15. 10 Quick Vietnam Travel Tips for First-time Visitors

    These 10 quick tips will help you prepare for your trip and travel Vietnam like a pro. Vietnam is one of my favourite places on Earth. Having lived in Hanoi and explored most of the country, I know a thing or two about travel in Vietnam - especially the common concerns that trip travellers up. Here are my 10 top travel tips for Vietnam.

  16. Top 20 Vietnam Travel Tips

    Summary: top tips for travelling to Vietnam I hope my months spent in Vietnam have given you some helpful tips and things to consider for your trip. It truly is a beautiful, chaotic, colourful and exciting place to visit with dynamic destinations, welcoming people and so much history and culture to explore on a budget.

  17. 50 Vietnam Travel Tips

    5. Understand Vietnam's very vast geography. Of all my initial Vietnam travel tips, the biggest one is this — realize just how long this country is. Like longer than you'd think when planning your trip. If you want to travel efficiently, you're going to want to fly in between places or be prepared to be on a train or bus for hours.

  18. 20 Things to Know Before you Travel to Vietnam

    Here are Traveltomtom's 20 essential Vietnam travel tips to make sure you have an amazing trip to Vietnam. 1. Is it safe to travel to Vietnam. Generally spoken one should not have any problems when visiting Vietnam. The most common threats are road accidents, theft and in a rare occasion snatch and grab.

  19. Travel to Vietnam tips: 17 things travelers need to know

    1. Note the Visa application process for Vietnam. When it comes to travel to Vietnam tips, obtaining a visa is an important consideration. For many travelers, a visa can be obtained through the Vietnam e-Visa system, which allows for online application and payment.

  20. Top Tips for Travelling in Vietnam

    Vietnam travel tips: insider advice for a safe trip. Ensure you have the necessary visa or pre-arranged visa approval letter before arriving in Vietnam. Check the latest requirements. Vietnam's climate varies throughout the country. Research the weather patterns of each destination to pack appropriate clothing.

  21. 68 Tips For Travelling Vietnam For First Timers [2024]

    Our Top Tips for Travelling Vietnam. General Vietnam Travel Planning Tips. 1. Arrange Your Visa Before Arriving in Vietnam. 2. Check the Weather in Vietnam for When and Where You Want to Visit. 3. Check For Vietnamese Festivals / Events / School Holidays. 4.

  22. 40 Things to Know Before Traveling to Vietnam for the First Time

    Phong Nha is one of the coolest spots to see caves in Central Vietnam. 4. Vietnam is a Communist government. The government transitioned to a Communist government after the end of the Vietnam War (called the American War in Vietnam) in 1975. This was an opportunity for the North and South to unite as one country.

  23. EPIC Guide to Solo Travel in Vietnam

    One of the best Vietnam solo travel tips is that the country offers fantastic skill-building classes like cooking and traditional crafts. Look out for ones that include communal dining at the end - where you enjoy the fruits of your labor with fellow participants. Use social media and apps. Facebook is a great place to find events in your ...

  24. 14 Travel Tips To Vietnam That You Must Know in 2024

    Vietnam is a country with a rich, war-torn history and awe-inspiring natural beauty. Travelling here can be an absolute delight. Here are some travel tips to Vietnam that are important to keep in mind while travelling here. Some of the travel tips to Vietnam been enumerated in this article. 1. English is Not Very Commonly Spoken Here

  25. Sa Pa, Vietnam's Famous Love Markets Are Threatened by ...

    But that all started to shift when the country began to encourage travel there in the early 90s; Voice of Vietnam reports that Sa Pa was bringing in nearly 5,000 daily visitors by 2022.

  26. How to get over jet lag like a pro traveler

    Don't let jet lag ruin your trip. Discover expert tips to stay refreshed and energized while traveling. Adjust your sleep schedule, stay hydrated and make the most of airport lounges.

  27. Traveling with babies and toddlers: What to pack, what to expect

    Preethi Harbuck, author of the travel blog Local Passport Family and a mom of six agrees that taking a big trip with young children — that is, babies and toddlers under age 2 — isn't easy. But ...

  28. Vietnam Moments Travel

    565 likes, 3 comments - vietnammoment on March 3, 2024: "This is the most famous place in Phu Yen, Vietnam. GĂ nh Đå DÄ©a, PhĂș YĂȘn. Credit: @dan..."

  29. Women's History Month: Honoring Unsung Heroic Women Who Served in Wartime

    Juanita Morrow and Wilhemina Barrow, both from New York City, served as American Red Cross Donut Dollies in October 1945 in Maryville, France, where they served troops of the 27th Chemical Company after travelling 100 miles in a truck to deliver cookies, doughnuts and coffee.The Donut Dollies officially began traveling with American soldiers during World War II.

  30. Florida is once again trying to break up with bad spring breakers

    Travel better with news, tips and guides that make you feel like a local wherever you go. In your inbox, Thursdays. ... How we travel now: More people are taking booze-free trips — and airlines ...