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30 Things To Know Before Going To Vietnam

things to know before going to Vietnam

Want to find out the things to know before visiting Vietnam ? It is one of the most popular countries in SE Asia visited by the backpackers across the world, but it still isn’t the country that people go visiting back like its neighbor  Thailand , which converts many of its visitors to permanent fans that end up going there back and forth. While Vietnam clicks with most people, it’s a shame that still many aren’t aware how gorgeous this country is! Maybe they didn’t know a few things or they hadn’t prepared or planned well. Whatever the reason is, knowing a few things before will give you an idea of what to expect in Vietnam, making you like and enjoy it when you visit. So go ahead and check out these things to know before going to Vietnam.

Here are the things to know before going to Vietnam

1. visa is easy, but come prepared.

Vietnam is easy in providing Visas, and it has different rules for different countries. If you have an Indian passport, you can either get the visa on arrival or get an eVisa. Similarly, nationals of more than 30+ countries are eligible for a visa on arrival. I have written a detailed post on how to get a Vietnam Visa with an Indian passport . The post has the link to the website that lists all other country details for Visa.

Also, if you have the UK or the US passport, you could travel in Vietnam for the first 15 days for free, post which you’ll have to visit the embassy to get renewed if you think of extending your trip. Similarly, there are no multiple entries allowed and in case you travel to other countries like Cambodia or Thailand and wish to come back, you’ll have to have the visa ready.

I met many travelers from Europe and the US who had a tough time going back and forth to the embassies to get their visa renewed – one of the many things when this is your first time in Vietnam. So no matter what your nationality is, sort out your visa before you arrive in Vietnam.

Recommended read: Solo travel in Vie tnam – What to expect and how to plan your trip?

2. Don’t let the size of the country fool you

One of the things not to do in Vietnam is to underestimate the size of this country. It might look like a thin strip of land next to the sea on a map, but did you know that the length of the country from the north to the south is more than 1800km at least? And it takes more than 36 hours to travel from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh ! Now you get an idea of Vietnam’s size, right?

3. Have a rough itinerary in mind

Since you shouldn’t take Vietnam for a little country, having a rough itinerary for your Vietnam trip surely goes a long way. You don’t plan everything end-to-end but make an outline or a trail that you would want to cover in Vietnam. The minimum time to travel in Vietnam from the north or the south to the other end is 3 weeks.

This is close to the ideal time to travel in Vietnam as ideally, you need at least a month to explore Vietnam to a certain level. Anything less than 3 weeks mean you have to forgo a few places obviously, but the key lies in how many places you want to explore.

You should also add travel time. If you are moving from one town to the next nearest (which would ideally be the case), note that there aren’t late-night buses for overnight journeys. It takes 4 to 5 hours to travel to the next town, and the best you can do is to take the first bus or the last bus (which is around 5 to 6 PM) to cut travel time, which still takes away some time to explore attractions. If you are short on time, take the domestic flights which are almost equal or sometimes less than a train ticket.

I traveled for 3.5 weeks traveling from Ho Chi Minh to the north. But I couldn’t spend enough time in North Vietnam, and I felt I needed a week more to feel contended!

Btw, if you are wondering what to do in Vietnam, you can check my post on the 95 things to do in Vietnam .

Recommended read: What to do in Vietnam? Here are the 95 things to do in Vietnam!

4. Weather isn’t the same everywhere

One of the most important things to know before going to Vietnam is to study and understand Vietnam’s weather. With such an elongated country, it’s only natural the weather is significantly different from region to region in Vietnam. This is how extreme the weather can be – It was snowing in Sapa while I couldn’t tolerate the hot sun in Mui Ne when I was traveling in Vietnam!

Categorising the country into three regions, here’s what to know about Vietnam’s weather.

Northern Vietnam : The winter is very cold, especially in places bordering China, and the temperature drops to single digits and even minus degree Celsius temperatures are common in the north of Vietnam. The summers are hot and it showers sometimes as well during this season. The wet season is often accompanied by typhoons and storms that cause landslides and other natural calamities.

So the ideal time to travel in the north is just after the summer and before the arrival of the monsoons, i.e between March & May. Or right after the monsoon and before the onset of summer between October & November (which can be tricky given the typhoons).

Central Vietnam : The weather in the central is tropical in nature where dry weather lasts between January & August, monsoons arrive in August and last until November, given the window for ttravellers between October to January.

Southern Vietnam : As you go south in Vietnam, the climate is full-fledged tropical, characterised by two seasons prominently, the wet and the dry, which is more or less same as the above in central Vietnam, making it ideal for travel from December to April.

Typhoons in Vietnam: As I said earlier, Typhoons are a common occurrence in countries like Vietnam or the Philippines. And entering Vietnam without knowing about them is a huge gamble. Although you can’t predict years in advance, usually, the country knows the arrival of typhoons and the people prepare accordingly. So check the weather online for typhoons.

Central and South Vietnam regions are prone to typhoons between August & November, where floods are common, while the typhoons arrive a little early in the north, around late June or July. Overall, October tends to be stormy in the entire country, and the typhoon season typically ends around December every year.

5. The best time to visit Vietnam is subjective

One of the things to know before visiting Vietnam is zeroing on the best time to travel, which is really subjective. As the country has different weather in various regions, it is the first thing among the things to consider. And although Vietnam is suitable for travel throughout the year, the best time really depends on the experiences that you are looking for.

As a rule of thumb, the best time to visit Vietnam is spring, between February to April and autumn, from August to October. This is when the number of travelers is high. And places can be expensive & in demand, tours can get full quickly and bargaining might not be feasible. But if you want to spend a summer in Vietnam, you can choose the summertime from February to June to travel, when the flight tickets, accommodations, and tour packages will be much cheaper.

Region-wise, let’s look at what’s the best time to travel to Vietnam as below:

North (Hanoi, Ninh Binh/Tam Coc, Halong Bay, Sapa, Ha Giang, Cuc Phuong, Mai Chau & Mu Cang Chai)

Overall, the best months to travel in the north & northeast Vietnam is from October to April, although it gets quite cold during December and January. The best for trekking in regions like Sapa and around Mu Cang Chai is from September & November, and from March to May.

things to know before going to vietnam

Central Vietnam (Hoi An, Danang, Hue, Nha Trang, Dalat, Phong Nha & Quy Nhon)

The best time to visit these places in central Vietnam is from late November to May when you can completely avoid the rains and typhoons. However, summer would be prevalent during this time. So if you are not a summer-person, you wouldn’t enjoy being here during this time.

Editor’s note – A complete guide to Ninh-Binh Tam Coc

South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh, Long Hai, The Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc, Con Dao, Phan Thiet/Mui Ne & Ho Tram)

The ideal time to travel in South Vietnam is the same as that of central regions, i.e from late November to May, with the time between February to May being hotter.

6. Some highly popular places are over-rated

The tourism industry is one of the leading contributors to the economy of Vietnam. Vietnam sells tourism, and it sells tourism too well. So much that at many places, you will only realize that they are overrated, unfortunately after you have spent your money time on these attractions. Probably every country has this list of places that are over-hyped, and Vietnam is no exception. Of course, it depends on individuals to individuals.

things to know before going to vietnam

Halong Bay is one of the most visited attractions in Vietnam, and many feel that it is crowded and overrated. It is beautiful for sure, but a bit of exaggeration is in place when locals sell it.

The same goes for Mekong Delta trips in the south near Ho Chi Minh, and some attractions in cities like Mui Ne, Danang and Phong Nha. So my point is, go through the list of attractions with a pinch of salt to decide whether an attraction or a city is really worth your time or money.

Editor’s note – Top Things to do in Phong Nha(Apart from exploring the caves)

7. Booking tours through travel agencies isn’t a bad option

In most countries, the package tours, whether private or group are considered expensive, and you pay less than what you pay for the tour if you do them independently. In Vietnam however, this is only partially true. Sometimes, booking tour costs you way less than traveling independently would cost you.

The tours like the 3-day all-inclusive trek to Sapa , local tours in Ho Chi Minh like a few of the day trips and multiple days Halong Bay Cruises are some of the tours that you can still book.

8. But keep tours at bay

Having said that the tours are reliable, keep them as a last resort. Overall, traveling independently is cheaper in Vietnam. So go for tours only in exceptional cases or where you think that go by yourself is costlier.

9. Get off the typical tourist places to find your own paradise

The best things to do in Vietnam, the places to explore and experiences to enjoy are not yet touristy or commercialised! So if you wander off the main attractions and create your own offbeat trail, you’ll stumble upon the better places in Vietnam, which are wonderful, cheap and authentic.

If you want to experience the countryside laden with lush fields, terraced paddy farms and wildflowers, head to the north and the north-east of Vietnam. If mountains are your thing, central Vietnam away from the coast would keep you enthralled. Similarly, the places close to popular cities in the south have many things to offer travelers.

10. Vietnam isn’t a beach destination

Vietnam is a very beautiful country hand down, but let’s be honest, beaches aren’t Vietnam’s forte. If you haven’t been to any southeast Asian countries, then this wouldn’t be a big deal and probably, you would careless, but there are countries just for beaches in SE Asia and that’s definitely not Vietnam.

Of course, you’ll find the beaches in Danang, Mui Ne or Phu Quoc cleaner and good, but that’s all that you find – meaning that Vietnam isn’t the country for an exclusive beach holiday .

11. Have a packing list for Vietnam Trip

Believe me, you should really make a packing list for the Vietnam trip. Irrespective of the time you are traveling and the places that you want to visit in Vietnam, always pack the summer clothes, at least one solid winter jacket, rain gears, shoe ideal for treks & hikes, flip-flops and enough clothes to suit for the hot, wet and the winter season.

I know it sounds crazy but believes me, it comes from my experience. I spent my days in Hanoi shivering when the temperature dropped to single digits in November because all I had was summer clothes!

12. If food is your first love, Vietnam will be your favourite!

I should have talked about food first but saved it for later. Vietnam’s is a foodie’s paradise – that’s how Vietnam’s food can be described at best. You are in for a treat while in Vietnam if food is a major thing in your travels.

Whether you are dining at an exquisite restaurant in Hanoi or going on a quest for the seafood in local eateries in Mui Ne, you can never resist falling in love with Vietnamese food.

things to know before going to vietnam

Whether you just want a simple noodle soup or a signature seafood delicacy, Vietnamese are adept at making the perfect food consisting of the flavours done skilfully. I had the most simple yet the most delicious noodle soup of my life in Saigon, and it cost me less than 2 USD.

There is more to Vietnamese food than Banh Mi – the Baguette sandwich and the quintessential Pho served in various versions (which tastes unique in every city!). I tried a lot of Vietnamese dishes, but it’s a shame that I can’t recollect their names at all!

13. Don’t underestimate Vietnam’s street food

Vietnam’s street food is something that you shouldn’t miss at all. It doesn’t matter where you travel, but make it a point to explore the local markets where you find the street food. You’ll find nothing fancy, but you can find small tables laid out on the footpath or in front of the shop, which consists of a small kitchen. You’ll find a lot of locals dining. These are the signs of finding excellent street food in the towns of Vietnam.

Once I figured the mouth-watering taste of street food, I switched to it full-time during my Vietnam trip. And boy, it was super fun, delicious and damn cheap!

There are many exclusive food tours that you can join as well as some cooking classes if you want to learn the secret Vietnamese recipes.

Editor’s note – 17 Amazing Things to do in Dalat, Vietnam’s postcard hill town

14. Understand the currency Vietnamese Dong

The Vietnamese currency is called Dong, abbreviated as VND . The denominations are really small, with the least value being 500 VND, which almost has no value. So it takes a while to understand the many notes with the different number of zeroes on it. And if you don’t pay enough attention while transacting, it is quite possible to lose money. Everything is in multiples of thousands, and some notes look similar.

The US dollars are freely accepted almost everywhere, but keep an eye on the currency exchange rates if you wish to exchange. There are scores of shops offering currency exchange. But it’s better to inquire in multiple shops before finalising as the rates differ. Avoid the exchange at the airports.

15. ATM’s aren’t there in EVERY town in Vietnam

Although cash is the king of Vietnam, ATM’s aren’t in every corner in all the cities. Of course, the bigger towns are an exception to this but in towns like Phong Nha or Tam Coc, there is just a handful of them even in 2018. So make sure to stock enough cash when you are in bigger cities to cover up for off the beat/smaller towns.

Also, make sure you have some dollars that you can get converted to VND to begin your trip. If you could get Dong before arriving it’s the best, but since they aren’t available easily, get some currency in cash, preferably USD. Euros or pounds also could be exchanged although USD is the most widely accepted currency after Dong in Vietnam.

16. You can work while you travel because Wifi is great

If you are a digital nomad or you work while traveling, then Vietnam isn’t a bad place at all, for the Wifi is decent in every town. It is not as blazing it is in Thailand, but the Wifi is excellent enough for you to get work done, make video calls or simply enjoy!

Almost all the hostels and hotels provide very good internet. So you can also avoid buying a local sim if the internet is all you need.

More Things To Know Before Going To Vietnam

17. sleeper buses are good and cheaper than the trains.

Many say that traveling by train in Vietnam is an experience itself. I wanted to experience this too, but I simply gave up after comparing it with the cost of the buses, which is less than half the price of train tickets! I don’t know why train travel isn’t cheap in Vietnam, but I can vouch for the many sleeper buses that I took.

No, they run sleeper buses during the day too, even when the journey time is less than 5 hours. The buses are the cheapest way to travel, and they are really great. You have enough leg room, the seats are comfortable, there is AC and some have WIfi too.

And most importantly, they reach on time most of the time. Also in some towns, they drop off right in the downtown or the central area, which means you would be saving on your transport to your hotel or hostel.

So don’t think twice if you want to go by buses. You can book the tickets at your hostel/hotel or directly with the travel companies (the cost is the same). The other advantage is the open tickets system, where you can buy the tickets without a fixed date and board the bus when you want to go giving you full flexibility.

However, note that the seater buses are small and aren’t very good, but they may be priced the same as that of sleeper buses. The only way to know this before is to cross-check many times while booking your tickets. I just ignored checking it once and I was given a seater bus ticket to Dalat, which was a very uncomfortable journey.

18. Haggling is a norm, so better learn it!

In Vietnam, locals expect to haggle in businesses and transaction. They often quote almost double or a few times even triple the money that a thing actually costs. So it’s up to the travelers to make a bargain. A friendly bargain is always encouraged, where they write or show the price on a calculator if their English isn’t great.

So as tourists, be prepared to negotiate which mostly works in the end. If not, just turn down and walk away and you might be called by them where they settle for your price. If they refuse rarely for the price that you are quoting, it only means that you have asked for a very low price!

19. Having Travel insurance is better

The bigger cities of Vietnam have great medical facilities but overall, it is expensive to get medical care in the country. Over the counter medicines are available with many pharmacy shops that are present in each town, but if you are prone to allergies or on some medication, it is better to get it from your place before coming to Vietnam.

Also having travel insurance is highly recommended for your Vietnam trip, which might save you a lot of money in case of any emergency.

20. Morning people are at an advantage

Vietnam sleeps early and begins the day quite early. Irrespective of the region, Vietnamese are early risers. Maybe because of the geography or the weather, whatever the reasons are, it means that if you are a morning person, you have more advantage as a traveler.

The tours start early, the attractions open as early as 7 AM in many towns. And it is way less crowded along with pleasant weather during the mornings. And except a few places in Ho Chi Minh, Danang or Hanoi, most cities wind up early in the night. Shops begin to close around 9 PM and by 11 PM, it would get deserted. So make the most of it rising early while in Vietnam!

21. Vietnamese coffee is awesome and really strong

The food in Vietnam is simply awesome, but Vietnamese coffee is another level altogether. If you are a coffee-addict, be assured that you’ll end up buying coffee to your home, apart from the fact that you’ll have it all the time in Vietnam!

But unlike any other country, Vietnamese coffee is usually very strong. Whether you consume it as a black coffee or add ice or condensed milk, with the cold coffee being the most popular drink, it is strong. So you might want to keep your hydration levels in check especially if you are traveling during summer and are prone to the habit of drinking excessive coffee!

22. Keep some extra photocopies of your passport

Many hostels or hotels in Vietnam ask for the original copy of your passport and they keep it as security while allocating rooms to you. I am not that comfortable giving away my passport as I keep it with me all the time. So I had made several photocopies, which I handed over at every place.

Although hesitant at first, most of the owners accepted the photocopy after verifying. So if you don’t want to hand over, you can firmly but politely refuse so. Some owners may be surprised and even act forceful but being assertive is the only way here.

23. Bikes are definitely the way to explore, only if you are a confident driver!

Renting bikes and exploring a place is popular in SE Asia, but Vietnam is a biker’s destination itself. Buying a bike and traveling through the length of the country is quite popular among the backpackers and adventure seekers.

It can go wrong if the motorbike fails and ends up needing repair causing maintenance charges and delays. But if you can check it well, pay a little extra and get a reliable bike, it would be the most fun way to travel.

From the coastal road of Mui Ne to the curves of Dalat to the adventurous Hai Van & Monkey Pass , Vietnam is diverse for riders. If you aren’t sure about buying one, renting a motorbike in each city is what you could do next. I did it and along with saving some money on tours, I had the best time driving amidst cities, forests, mountains and by the seaside. 

A word of caution though – Although both geared and non-geared are available, if you aren’t used to traffic, bad roads or lack general driving experience, go for a motorbike with extreme caution. Maybe you could just hire for a day and see.  Because motorbike accidents are a regular thing, and if you aren’t careful, you might injure yourself seriously!

24. Go for registered taxis

Cabs are a convenient way to travel in Vietnam, especially if you are traveling in groups.   But tourists are often asked to pay higher prices since either the meter is faulty or tuned for higher prices or the taxis are fake.

Vinasun taxis that have a uniform color code is professional and reliable, and not that expensive if covering long distances within big cities. Avoid getting into random cabs. Also, there are motorbikes by Grab where motorists will drive you around, which is cheaper than the cabs.

25. If you thought that the capital Hanoi is busy, well, Ho Chi Minh is

Being the capital, Hanoi must be bustling and happening, but it is far quieter and devoid of glamour. On the other hand, Ho Chi Minh in the south is the nightlife capital and a vibrant city that always looks busy.

Hanoi is more urbanised and progressed, whereas if you want to entertain yourself either through socialising or shopping, Ho Chi Minh is the place to be. Hanoi is rich in history while Ho Chi Minh is known for its unique culture.

26. Not everyone speaks or understands English

If you travel to the interior of Vietnam, not everyone would understand English, and it would be difficult to get around. Even in the big cities, although most hotel owners, people in cafes and tourist centres speak English, in most cases they aren’t fluent and it is just basic English. So keep that in mind and learning a few Vietnamese phrases would help!

27. Traffic is hectic and honking is common

If you are not used to heavy traffic, then that’s the first cultural shock that you would encounter in Vietnam. Delays are common, and traffic jams are a regular thing, especially in Ho Chi Minh.

Honking isn’t rude or offence unlike in many parts of the world. It just means that they are in a hurry and they want you to make way for them.

28.  Avoid tap water

Tap water isn’t suitable for drinking. Bottled water is very cheap and most hostels provide purified water. So go for these and avoid drinking water directly from the tap at any cost.

29. People are friendly and helpful

things to know before going to vietnam

One of the things to know about Vietnamese culture is its people. They are welcoming, helpful and friendly, although the youngsters these days might have money on their mind when it comes to tourists. A few times money may be the motive for the locals to befriend tourists but that’s not always the case.

As a solo traveler, I found some locals to be genuinely warm and helpful. The more you travel in Vietnam and their people, the better you get to know the actual locals that are not in this tourist business, who are kind.

30. But beware of scams & watch your belongings

Although the people of Vietnam are really nice, the country is known for its notorious scams targeted at tourists. I didn’t come across any but for many, this is one of the main reason that stops them visiting the country again. From fake tours to horrible rooms to over-charged bike rents to taxi meters, you might be scammed if you don’t keep your eyes and ears open.

Is Vietnam safe for tourists? It is as safe or not as safe as any country that receives too many tourists. Don’t leave your belongings unattended in any cafes or restaurants. Keep the cash hidden and don’t flaunt in public places to avoid unnecessary attention which might lead you to trouble.

That’s it, folks! So these are the things to know before going to Vietnam. Have you been to Vietnam? How was your experience? If I have missed anything, let me know!

Also here are some posts that would help you to get to know more about Vietnam!

OTHER POSTS ON VIETNAM THAT YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT

What to do in Vietnam? Here are the 95 Things to do in Vietnam

An Ultimate Guide to all the caves in Phong Nha(With tips)

A Travel Guide to Ninh Binh Tam Coc

Best Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City – A Travel Guide

48 Hours in Hanoi – How To Explore Hanoi in 2 Days

A Total Travel Guide To Mui Ne, Vietnam’s Pretty Beach Town

Things to Do in Hue – A Complete Guide

Exploring Dalat – How To Enjoy This Hill Town of Vietnam

Vietnam Visa for Indians – How to easily get your Vietnam Visa on Arrival

Hoi An in Photos – Walking Through Vietnam’s Post Card Town

Also, if you are planning to go to Laos as well, Luang Prabang should be on your list. Read the below post to know what to do in Luang Prabang.

A complete travel guide to things to do in Luang Prabang

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Visa application - is it a scam? Urgent advice please - Vietnam Forum

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Visa application - is it a scam? Urgent advice please

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vietnam trip quora

24 replies to this topic

' class=

The 'scam' with all of these sites is that she overpaid for a service she could have just got herself from the Vietnamese government for $25 US by getting it from a commercial agent.

I have never ever ever heard of a scam where the agent took the money and supplied false documents. Ever. She'd be the first.

I do wish people would start just quoting https://immigration.gov.vn which is 1) easier to communicate, 2) obviously correct and 3) can be typed into a browser without having to search for 'visa for Vietnam' or whatever. The internet is awash with these commercial sites, but they're so easy to avoid.

vietnam trip quora

You know, l don't recall ever seeing a post about someone being denied boarding or entering, because they applied for a visa through a 'scam' site.

But posts about people using sites other than the one they should have?

Not saying she won't have an issue, but my suspicion is she'll be fine, and she just paid more than she should have.

Thanks for your help, greatly appreciated

vietnam trip quora

Sounds like your daughter decided to pay a 3rd party visa agent (nothing appearing for me with the website address given however) to apply for the visa for her, instead of just doing it herself on the official Govt visa website as always advised

All the 3rd party visa agent websites I have seen clearly state they are a visa agent who you pay to apply for a visa for you, rather than the official Govt visa website. They are not scams

The best way to find the official Govt visa website for any country is to just go to the relevant TA forum for the country & it takes 2 mins at the most normally to find the correct website

People who just google, pick the 1st website that appears & don't bother checking anything, are normally the ones who use 3rd party visa agents

The website has finally appeared, & states this on the front page of the website. It is quite clearly not the official Govt visa website, & people should not use it, unless they want to pay a 3rd party visa agent to apply for the visa for them

vietnam trip quora

If this EVisa she has been given is a scam, is there any way she can get a visa there?

=============================================

Her photos and details will be stored on immigration hard drives No visa on arrival since the pandemic.

She will be ok, just out of pocket $80 for something she could have done herself.

We are getting 10 a month on this forum, no one had been denied entry.

She must keep that evisa untill she leaves the country.

Thanks again everyone for your help. At least she learnt a valuable lesson re applying for Visa's, and to double check sites that she is on.

' class=

It's a scam.

I received the document on, what looks to be the official letter with a scannable QR code.

The QR code navigates to google, that's it. Nothing else.

Do NOT use this site.

Only use the official site: https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/

it's $25.00 USD. If you're on another site OR you're paying more, know that you're likely getting scammed.

Also, look at the bottom of the website's main page. It's registered in Madrid Spain. Why would government agency register their approved passport providers in a foreign location? Answer: they wouldn't.

> The QR code navigates to google, that's it. Nothing else.

Well, let's see before we cry scam. Official E-Visa QR code deocdes to something like

5555555555GBRyymmddXmYYMMDDX<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

5555555555GBRyymmddXmYYMMDDX'lots of less than signs'X

5555555555 Passport number

GBR Country

yymmdd Date of birth

YYMMDD Valid until date

X Presumably check digits

It's doesn't 'link' to anywhere. It's just data. Does yours check out for that data?

You can't say it's a scam (other than the extra payment for the service) unless and until it's refused as not genuine by Immigration.

Tripadvisor doesn't like anything that look s like HTML, so don't type the less than characters.

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Things You Should Know About Vietnamese Culture

With a country rich in ancient customs and respectful culture, Vietnam is a must-visit if youre keen to learn more about history

The traditions of Vietnam date back thousands of years and are instilled with a respect for the land, sea and people. If you want to understand the nuances of the beautiful Vietnamese culture, these are the things you need to know.

Eyeing up a trip to Vietnam? You can visit in the company of a small group of culturally curious travellers and a Local Insider on Culture Trip’s immersive 12-day Vietnam adventure , which includes Hanoi, Lan Ha Bay and Hoi An.

Trust is a long process

This one infuriates business people all the time as they come to Vietnam with their own ideas about how things should operate. The business culture here isn’t that simple, though. It’s based on trust and reputation; legal documents are fine, but until your new partners know you as a person, there will always be suspicion. Trust takes years to build here and just seconds to destroy – so tread carefully.

Nobody wants to lose face

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Vietnamese people are typically kind and non-confrontational

Academics are revered

When you speak to students in Vietnam, it can be a bit disheartening to hear how restricted their lives can be – but this is the norm. The job market is competitive, so young people have to be at the top of their classes if they want to succeed. There are amazing opportunities in this booming economy – but only for those who put in the work. That means long school days, with tutors and extra classes at night – especially English, which is now a requirement for many students graduating from higher education.

Education is highly valued in Vietnam, where the job market is competitive

Elders are respected

After name and nationality, age is one of the first questions you’ll be asked in Vietnam. Their society is built on Confucian beliefs, where experience and wisdom are highly respected. This means the older you are, the more respect you command. You shouldn’t swear or bring up inappropriate topics when you’re with older people, such as death or sex. At dinners, the eldest people are served first – and at home or work, their opinions carry more weight.

Vietnamese society places an importance on the elder generations

Their war history is sacrosanct

Some people have learned this the hard way: don’t speak ill of Vietnamese war heroes or make jokes about anything related to the war. Generally speaking, Vietnamese people have a great sense of humour, but they don’t joke about the war years. Those were difficult times for everyone in this country. As a foreigner, you need to be careful with this topic and be extremely mindful when speaking about their colonial past.

Tread carefully when discussing the war years

Transactions are always negotiated

Shopping in Vietnam is often a battle of subtleties and strategy. Foreigners should expect an extra fee. In this case, your best weapons are your feet. Negotiate with the shopkeeper until they won’t move any more and then threaten to walk away. For most shops, a smaller profit margin beats getting nothing.

When shopping, remember to haggle to find a fair price

Ghosts are real

Many Vietnamese traditions and customs are based around their ancestral beliefs. One of the greatest fears in Vietnam is that the dead won’t find peace in the afterlife – that they’ll be left to wander as tortured spirits. Most people in Vietnam have a ghost story: from a butterfly landing on them during a funeral to strange voices at night. No matter your thoughts on the supernatural, don’t make light of ghosts or the deceased here.

Vietnamese people are relentlessly optimistic

There is so much opportunity in Vietnam these days. People are working hard to improve both themselves and the lives of their families with the belief that today’s long hours will pay off later. You won’t hear too many people grumbling about their hardships, so try not to complain about your own problems too much. As a foreigner who can afford international travel, you won’t find much sympathy.

People work hard in Vietnam, so try not to grumble too much about the minor things

There is no tipping culture

Tipping isn’t expected in Vietnam. If you feel the service has gone above and beyond, feel free to leave a little extra – but if you do, be discrete. Hide it under a plate or behind the bill. When you make an overt show of tipping, it could make a person feel like they’re losing face – like they’re begging. Some people will just flat out refuse a tip because they think you’ve made a mistake in counting your money.

Food is an important part of Vietnamese culture

Vietnam’s rivers, paddies, mountains and seas are deeply ingrained in the culture. Because of this, it’s rude to leave food uneaten, especially when you’re in someone’s home and they’ve cooked for you. It’s an insult to the land and the workers who made the meal possible. Try not to take more than you can eat and be sure to give out many compliments.

The process of bringing food to the table is respected here, so finish your meal

They don’t like outsiders criticising their country

Vietnamese people talk about their societal problems all the time – be it pollution, traffic, corruption or academic cheating. But they’re less patient when it’s a foreigner doing the criticising. It comes off as arrogant, as though you’re saying why your country is better than theirs. When it’s understood like that, of course, it’s upsetting. If you make a joke about the crazy traffic, you’ll be fine – but don’t go on and on about it without also recognising there is so much to love about this amazing country.

The traffic can be heavy in Vietnam, but it’s best not to complain too much

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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.

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Guides & Tips

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Never Ending Footsteps

The Cost of Travel in Vietnam: A 2023 Budget Breakdown

Lanterns in Hoi An

Vietnam is one of the greatest countries in the world.

I should know: I’ve spent a almost full year travelling across this country, making my way from the very top to its southernmost point and exploring a hell of a lot along the way.

I’ve spent months living in Hanoi and Saigon, and celebrated birthdays in Hoi An and Mui Ne. I’ve rented apartments with local families in lesser-known neighbourhoods, diligently worked my way through every street food cart in the area, then partied my way through all of the best backpacker haunts. I’ve travelled solo in the country, with my boyfriend and with friends, and even spent a month showing my boyfriend’s parents around the country. I spent two weeks riding a scooter through the smallest of towns in the Mekong Delta, visiting places that few tourists have ever passed through.

I’ve seen so much of this country and yet there’s something that still continually pulls me back.

(Confession: it’s the food. Vietnamese food is the best .)

But beyond the incredible meals, there’s also the beautiful scenery, the friendly people, the amazing architecture, and the most bustling cities. From the awe-inspiring views up in Sapa and the beaches of Da Nang, to the beauty of Hoi An, the scenery at Halong Bay, and the chaos of Saigon, Vietnam offers something for everyone.

Today, I want to focus on what you’ll pay for all of this magic. Of course, being in Southeast Asia, Vietnam is an affordable country to visit, in comparison to countries in North America and Europe, so your Dong will take you far. Yep, that’s the name of the currency here: the Vietnamese Dong, and you’ll find yourself with plenty of opportunity to make jokes about it.

I usually travel on a mid-range budget in Vietnam, along with occasional splurges, and often average around $50 — I’ve managed to get by on $10 a day when I was a tight backpacker, and splurged on a five-star hotel and been blown away by how much $100 a night can get you.

At the time of writing this, in 2023, $1 equates to around 24,000 VND. You’ll usually get 500,000 VND notes out of the ATMs, so remember that those are worth just over $20 each. Be careful with the 20,000 and 500,000 notes, though — they look very similar and could make for quite the expensive mistake!

A quick housekeeping point before we continue: everything in the post I paid for myself – as always, this is a comp- and press trip-free article.

With all that being said, it’s time to take an in-depth look into just how much it costs to travel in Vietnam. Let’s get started.

Hoi An Cafe

Where to Go in Vietnam

I recommend allocating a full month to travel in Vietnam. Here’s how I recommend spending your time over those four weeks:

  • Hanoi: 5 nights
  • Sapa: 2 nights
  • Halong Bay/Bai Tu Long Bay: 1 night
  • Ninh Binh: 3 nights
  • Phong Nga: 2 nights
  • Da Nang: 2 nights
  • Hoi An: 5 nights
  • Dalat: 3 nights
  • Saigon: 3 nights
  • Can Tho: 1 night

Fairy stream, Mui Ne

What’s Included in This Post

The budget breakdown you’re about to read covers accommodation, transportation, activities, food, and miscellaneous costs. All prices are in U.S. dollars, as that’s where most of my readers are located.

Flight costs will vary, depending on where you’re travelling in from. I recommending using Skyscanner’s flight comparison search engine to find the very best deals.

I often book activities and transport online, but generally have found that local travel agents offer cheaper prices. You’ll find one on practically every street in tourist-popular destinations, so there’s always many places vying for your custom; amounts can usually be haggled.

But if that’s not your thing, or you prefer the peace of mind of having things booked in advance, online booking works well, too. More on that below.

Vietnam offers up amazing value for money. Yes, I often splashed out on fun excursions that are a bit pricier, but even then, costs didn’t spiral. It’s all about balance. 

My ethos is: if I’m not going to experience at least some of the sights and activities a place is known for, what’s the point? But equally, I’ve also found some lesser-known – and free – things to do along the way that I’ll be mentioning as well.

Time to jump in.

mekong delta river

How to Save Money on the Cost of Accommodation in Vietnam

As always with travel, it’s possible to cut your accommodation costs down to zero if you have the time and patience to seek out an offer.

Housesitting  is a great option for free accommodation. This is where you’ll take care of somebody’s house while they’re away, and usually look after their pets, too. It’s best for long-term travellers or retirees as you can’t pick and choose dates and destinations, so you need to have a lot of flexibility as to where you go and at what time of year. If you do have that freedom, it’s a wonderful way to cut down your travel expenses, soak up some home comforts, and live like a local for a while. I have friends who have housesat in castles before! For free!  Trusted Housesitters  is the best site for getting started with housesitting, as they have the highest number of listings.

I’m suspecting, though, that for most of you, you’re not interested in the free accommodation and just want somewhere clean, safe, and affordable to rest your head each night. If that’s the case, there are several options available for you.

The first of these are  hostels . In Vietnam, you’ll come across hostels all over the country, finding them on tiny islands, in large cities, and even in the national parks. They’re one of your best options for saving money.

Hostels in Vietnam  are on a par with the rest of Southeast Asia, and you can expect to spend around  $5 a night for a dorm bed  for a well-reviewed hostel in Vietnam, with the price increasing to slightly about  $15 a night  for the absolute best of the best.

When it comes to private rooms in hostels, you can expect to spend around  $20 a night  for a clean, basic room in a good location, so if you’re travelling with friends or with your partner, you may find it cheaper to grab some privacy over settling for two beds in a dorm room.  $40 a night  will get you an exceptionally well-reviewed private room in a hostel or hotel.

I use  HostelWorld  to find the cheapest hostels, as they tend to have the greatest number of listings at the lowest prices.

And, of course, there are always hotels, which will usually come in at around  $20-$60 a night  for a decent, clean, mid-range property in a central location. I always use  Booking , as they have the most accommodation options for the cheapest prices. I share my personal recommendations below:

Being a digital nomad in Vietnam

The Cost of Accommodation in Vietnam

Places to stay in Vietnam are excellent value.

There were a couple of exceptions where we treated ourselves and upped the budget a bit, but that’s not to say we didn’t see quality options within both price brackets.

For the most part, we stayed in hotels and guesthouses and picked places where breakfast was included. That way, our first meal of the day was covered by what was without exception a first-rate buffet, often with eggs made-to-order any which way we preferred. Going forward, whenever I mention breakfast, you can assume it was part of the rate.

Mid-range properties were super-reasonably priced. And even 5* accommodation doesn’t cost an arm and a leg – much less than a hotel room in Western Europe, Australasia or the USA, for example.

Hotel staff couldn’t do enough for us, from the concierge and the tour desk to the staff at breakfast. Honestly, the Vietnamese people were a delight: really friendly and helpful. Often they were keen to practice their English on us and claimed to not be very good, when in actual fact they were fluent. It put us to shame.

Read on for recommendations on places to stay in Vietnam.

Hanoi: Our stay at this contemporary hotel in the Old Quarter cost us $49 a night , and we can’t speak highly enough of this gem.

Just a five-minute walk from Hoan Kiem Lake and tons of restaurants and bars, our superior double was spacious and modern, with wooden floors, splashes of colour throughout, and a feature wall. The breakfast buffet was varied and staff were incredibly helpful, going above and beyond to help us with forthcoming bookings.

For us, the historic centre was definitely the best area to stay in. It was bustling, atmospheric, and within ambling distance of most attractions. Talking of walking: make sure you watch out for the pesky mopeds in Hanoi, and Saigon too. In fact, there were even more zipping about down south.

Sapa: We opted for a homestay in Sapa, because we really wanted to throw ourselves into things. If you go down that route, Mao and her family are the people to choose.

After an overnight train ride northwards from Hanoi, we were met by Mao’s sister-in-law. We paid $68 per person for a one-night stay in Mao’s home. But that price also covered a two-day excursion. More on the details in the activity section.

It was Mao’s mountainous family home that we stayed in. It was basic, but comfortable: mattress-style beds on the floor enclosed by mosquito nets and shared bathroom facilities. The hospitality was warm, and the family were generous with their time.

We loved our night there and would wholeheartedly recommend it.

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Bai Tu Long Bay: Boat time! Bai Tu Long Bay is just eastwards of the more famous Halong Bay, but doesn’t attract the crowds of the former. It’s just as beautiful, so if you want to see those limestone karsts without hundreds of boats surrounding you, this is the way to go.

We chose a two days/one night trip here. Our boat – Viola – was striking yet comfortable – a traditional wooden vessel with 16 cabins featuring dark wood and large windows. We were lucky: the boat wasn’t full, so we managed to bag an upgrade to the Honeymoon suite with a balcony to admire the spectacular scenery from.

Our cost came in at $149 per person for the two night trip, but that did include transfers, separate excursions off the boat, and food.

Ninh Binh: Just a couple of hours south of Hanoi we reached Ninh Binh, and this rather lovely homestay . Run by a family of four, the hospitality was first-rate, and our room was large, with pretty views out to the mountains. There was a roof terrace for drinks and excellent local food, and complimentary bicycles.

The property is outside the centre of town on a quiet residential stretch. We were there to get out and about on bikes, so the quiet location worked well for us. We paid $19 a night and were impressed. The family even invited us to join them one night for a home-cooked meal – an unexpected and kind gesture that we took them up on. That was our first taste of jackfruit.

Phong Nha: We pushed the boat out in Central Vietnam – for us anyway – and spent $45 a night . Located off the beaten path a little (about 15 minutes from the centre of town), this peaceful hideaway was set among lush greenery and rice paddies, and came complete with a swimming pool, wonderful views, complimentary bikes, tasty food, and quaffable fishbowl gin and tonics.

Situated just outside the National Park and the caves the area is famous for, we enjoyed sitting al fresco watching the sunset, sipping on a drink with a plate of crispy spring rolls to munch on.

The vibe was French colonial, with plenty of dark wood, wicker furniture and colourful tiles. And the ethos was ethical, sustainable and local, which got a thumbs up from us.

Danang: We continued with a slightly increased budget here, and spent $62 a night at this stylish beachfront property in a bright and airy superior double. .

Just a couple of minutes’ walk from the white sands of My Khe beach and about 25 from the famous Dragon Bridge, this spot offered us the best of both worlds.

We made the most of the glorious rooftop pool and terrace and the plentiful breakfast buffet. And friendly staff were on hand to answer our questions – such as where to get the local bus to Hoi An from.

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Hoi An: Just 45 minutes southwards on that bus we were advised about, we reached our next stop. We split our time here: three nights a short cycle from lovely Cua Dai beach at this contemporary hotel with a pool overlooking the Co Co river (we paid $40 per night ).

Our room was spacious, clean, and it was fab to have a balcony. Plus, we were just a 20-minute ride to the sea. And at the latter smaller property, we loved the eye-catching colourful tiles throughout and enjoyed a splash in the dinky pool.

Saigon: We stayed in this first-rate hotel in Saigon, with pale wood and bamboo decor, knowledgeable staff, a quality buffet breakfast, and a rooftop pool with city vistas. We paid $90 per night and were very happy.

Can Tho (Mekong Delta): We were here for just one night, and up very early for a Mekong Delta boat ride the following day. So we opted for a lower end of the price bracket option. And we couldn’t find fault with this virtually riverside boutique hostel , where we paid just $20 per night .

You can expect funky monochrome decor and air-con. Breakfast wasn’t included here, but we knew we’d be eating on our floating market trip.

OUR TOTAL COST OF ACCOMMODATION IN VIETNAM CAME TO $1178. THAT’S AN AVERAGE OF $42 PER DAY, OR $21 EACH.

Reminder: in Sapa and Bai Tu Long Bay, the cost I’ve used in the calculation included a whole excursion – so food, walks etc.

a door on a scooter vietnam

THE COST OF TRANSPORTATION IN VIETNAM

We chose to travel by bus throughout Vietnam for the most part. We generally found these to be clean, efficient and comfortable. Some had reclining seats that were bedlike, for longer journeys.

To reiterate: shop around for prices; we found there were deals to be had. If, however, you break into a sweat when you think about masterfully haggling with the experts, 12Go Asia is my go-to site for booking overland travel in Southeast Asia. They’ve got buses, trains, and private transport listed, and it’s usually only a dollar or two more than you’ll pay in person, so it’s definitely worth checking out.

Keep in mind that sometimes the buses take less time than advised and you may have to swap buses, which you’re not always pre-informed about. For example, from Phong Nha to Danang we switched buses in Hue. And from Hoi An to Dalat, we changed vehicles in Nha Trang (but did get to see a lovely sunrise at the beach there). Really, for the prices we paid, we couldn’t complain.

Here’s a breakdown of our journeys:

Train from Hanoi to Sapa: $32 per person . Note: we shared our cabin with two other (snoring) people, so would recommend opting for a private cabin if funds allow (around $61 per person).

Bus from Sapa to Hanoi: $12 per person . We used Sapa Express : comfy seats, lovely views, and a very friendly member of staff was on board. Water and a snack were provided, too. The company was also very accommodating when we nearly missed the bus.

Bus from Hanoi to Ninh Binh: $7 per person

Bus from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha: $12 per person

Bus from Phong Nha to Danang: $12 per person

Local bus from Danang to Hoi An: $1 per person

Bus from Hoi An to Dalat: $16 per person

Bus from Dalat to Saigon: $17 per person

Bus from Saigon to Can Tho: $6 per person

Shuttle bus from Can Tho to Ha Tien: $6 per person. Tip: don’t buy your ticket from the office, go directly to a shuttle and ask a driver for a price – they charged us less than what was quoted inside.

There are other modes of transport if buses aren’t for you. Trains are an alternative ( 12Go is a top website for those, too), and Grab was available in Hanoi, Danang and Saigon.

Similar to Uber, you just need to download the app. Scooters are an option with Grab; cheaper than booking a car. Watch out for taxis you hail off the street – they have a reputation for trying to rip off tourists, so it’s easier to use the app.

OUR TOTAL COST OF TRANSPORTATION IN VIETNAM CAME TO $242. THAT’S AN AVERAGE OF $8.60 PER DAY, OR $4.30 EACH.

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THE COST OF ACTIVITIES AND ENTRANCE FEES IN VIETNAM

We saw and did a lot in Vietnam, ranging from rice paddy walks and scenic boat rides to food tours. There were also some well-known activities that we chose not to do, because of personal preference. For example, Phong Nha is famous for caves, but we opted for a bike ride into the countryside instead.

Here’s a rundown for you, with costs.

Halong Bay two-day/one-night tour from Hanoi: $150 per person. If there’s one thing you have to do when you’re in Vietnam, it’s to visit their most famous attraction. Halong Bay is incredible and well-worth taking the time and spending the money to see it. The rock formations are breathtaking! We opted for a tour that took us to both Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay, as the latter is free of the tourist crowds. That way, we got the best of both worlds. You can check availability for the tour we booked using the widget below (it is popular, so book well in advance!)

Food tour in Hanoi with Ha Food Tours: $25 per person . An amazing evening; we were fit to burst by the end. Our local tour guide was fun, friendly and very informative. She also gave us recommendations for other restaurants to try (Pho 10 below). We wandered our way around the Old Quarter sampling delights such as Bun Cha, egg coffee (nicer than it sounds!), dried beef salad, crab spring rolls, beef noodles, Bahn Mi, sticky rice, and coconut ice-cream. Told you there was a lot of food! We wouldn’t necessarily have known to go into some of the places, and it was lovely to be led by someone with first-hand knowledge of the city. We thought the price offered excellent value for money, when you coupled all of the food with the guided aspect.

Hoa Lo prison, Hanoi (pay at the entrance): 30,000 VND per person (approximately $1.50) . This was an eye-opening and moving experience. The former jail was used by the French colonists in Vietnam for political prisoners, and later by North Vietnam for US Prisoners of War during the Vietnam War.

Sapa walking and homestay with Mao and family : $55 per person (two days, one night). The scenery was amazing in Sapa and the Muong Hoa Valley: rice fields, terraces, tea plants, and lush greenery. If you’re into glorious views and walking (there was a fair amount, and it was medium difficulty at times), this is for you. We met Mao’s sister-in-law in the centre of town, and from there, up we went into the mountains. It was peaceful, picturesque, and a world away from busy Hanoi. Included in the tour were two lunches, plus a plentiful home-cooked dinner and breakfast at Mao’s. Do try the rice wine – ‘happy water’ Mao offers at dinnertime – it was potent, reminding us a bit of sake.

Bai Tu Long Bay boat tour with Premier Travel: $144 per person (two days, one night). Again, the scenery here was pretty spectacular, with limestone rock formations jutting out of the water across the bay. The trip included visiting a pearl farm and an impressive cave, all meals, a summer roll making class, a swim, and a kayak. Just to let you know, it was communal dining, which some people like, and others don’t.

Trang An caves, Ninh Binh (pay at entrance): 200,000 VND per person (approximately $8.50) . We were really pleased we chose to cycle out to the river and the Trang An caves. They were a much quieter alternative to Tam Coc (we rode via there another day and it was busy). At Trang An, we jumped aboard a small boat just before 4pm; it was quiet on the water. The scenery was wonderful and the caves we went through made the journey exciting and interesting. Watch your head in some of the caves – they were low. We made a few stops along the way and helped to row for some of the trip. It was a lovely way to spend a few hours. Lunch tip: Quoc Khanh Bamboo Homestay (great views, and very tasty pomelo, pork and shrimp salad).

Mua Caves, Ninh Binh (pay at entrance): 100,000 VND per person (approximately $4.50) . We cycled from our homestay through paddy fields which was fab. The caves involved a 500-step climb – so it may not be for everyone. Tough, but totally worth it for the amazing and far-reaching vistas.

Scooter food tour in Hoi An: $35 per person . Another fantastic food tour. We sampled a whopping nine dishes on this tour — some of which were served in a local’s home who specialised in that particular item. So good, so fun, and so informative; this is a must-do!

Countryside tour in Dalat : $40 per person . One word: loved! We stopped at a cricket farm, the Elephant Falls, a silk factory, a coffee plant, and wandered around a local market sampling bits and pieces. We also enjoyed a lunch pitstop with a fun fruit tasting, and then came the secret aspect. I won’t reveal what that was – it was worth it though.

Crazy House , Dalat (pay at the entrance): 40,000 VND per person (approximately $1.75) . This really was crazy. An unconventional building constructed by Vietnamese architect Đặng Việt Nga, designed to entice people back to nature. You can also stay there too, if that floats your boat.

Although, let's be honest: I mostly returned to Saigon for soups!

Saigon Pho Trail : $55 per person . A food and walking tour highlighting the ‘real’ Ho Chi Minh City. We wandered around authentic markets, enjoyed a first-rate breakfast beef pho, calamansi juice, and then a huge lunch. So much tasty food! And a super friendly pair of guides.

Saigon foot scrub: $15 per person . We’d done an awful lot of walking throughout our trip and our feet deserved some attention! There were so many places offering spa services, so we shopped around. Our treatment also included a quick neck and back massage, and a pedicure for me.

Mekong Delta boat ride: $18 per person . We loved this tour so much. It was an early start down to the water where we took a boat tour to the Cai Rang Floating Market. Next, we stopped at a noodle factory and then a cacao plant. A wonderful morning. Our advice? Don’t book online, ask your hotel for a tour recommendation.  

There were also tons of free activities we enjoyed. They can sometimes be just as enjoyable, we think. Read on for a handful of our faves.

Phong Nha Bong Lai Valley bike ride: This was one of my favourite days. So scenic, not too difficult, and two great places to stop for a beer and food – always a bonus! Their names? Pub with Cold Beer (it did what it said on the tin), and Eco Boar Farm.

Danang beach walk: Non Nuoc and My Khe – wide stretches with fine sand.

Hoi An beach walk: Cua Dai. Another lovely stretch; keep an eye out for colourful crabs scurrying along.

Where I’ve mentioned bikes, these were complimentary with our hotel stay.

OUR TOTAL COST OF ACTIVITIES IN VIETNAM CAME TO $418.50. THAT’S AN AVERAGE OF $15 PER DAY, OR $7.50 EACH.

Reminder: I’ve excluded the Sapa and Bai Tu Long Bay tours from my calculations because I included them in the accommodation costs above.

Hanoi street food

THE COST OF FOOD VIETNAM

I love, love, love food. Wherever we visit, we put a lot of research time into where to eat and what dishes we should try. We like to taste local specialities, and so we kept our ear out for recommendations. The food in Vietnam was among the best we tasted throughout the year, and super cheap too.

I’m going to list a handful of dishes we regularly ate across the four weeks, with an average price.

Like I said before, for the most part, breakfast was included as part of our room rate, so I won’t include that in this section. And on a handful of days when we were on an excursion, all of our meals were included. So I’ll calculate for the remaining days.

Let’s do it…

Bahn Mi: a super delicious snack that we had virtually every day! A baguette (Viet style – much lighter than the French version) filled with BBQ pork, pate, herbs, chilli, and pickled veg. Banh Mi 25 in Hanoi was our favourite by far and cost just 30,000 a pop (about $1.30). Madam Khanh, Queen of Banh Mi in Hoi An was also very tasty (25,000 VND, approximately $1).

vietnam trip quora

Pho: fragrant noodle soup that struck the balance of being fresh yet filling.

Average cost: 65,000 VND ( approximately $3). Our recommendation? Beef pho at Pho 10 in Hanoi. The broth was delicate and the meat rare (it cooked a bit as it sat in the broth). There were sharing condiments on the table – fresh chilli, a fiery sauce and garlic. One portion and a beer came in at 85,000 VND (around $4).

Bun Cha: a tangy broth, with chargrilled pork patties, rice noodles, fresh vegetables and herbs. The average we paid for this scrummy dish was 90,000 VND ($4) per portion. We loved Bun Cha Ta in Hanoi.

Banh Xeo: super cheap and filling crispy pancakes filled with veggies, pork belly and prawns. Just 23,000 VND ($1) a portion in general.

Com Ga: chicken and rice. Simple yet delicious, and cheap at around 46,000 VND ($2) per portion.

Nem Nuong: pork sausage meat, greens, pickled veg, rice noodles and rice paper – a DIY meal where we wrapped the ingredients in the rice paper. So tasty, and only around 92,000 VND ($4) a portion.

Dumplings and wontons: need little explanation! Miss Ly’s well-known spot in Hoi An was a noteworthy place to try these. We shared, and paid 80,000 VND each (about $3.50).

A couple of evenings we fancied some Western food. For example, we had a yummy pizza each at Fatfish in Danang. That cost us 195,000 VND (about $8.50) per person. A bit more expensive, but still totally manageable.

Burger Bros in Danang cost us 100,000 VND (about $4) each – comparable to local food prices. And it was a really juicy burger.

A few times, we spent a bit more on Vietnamese meals. For instance, we enjoyed an early dinner at the Pub with Cold Beer. The family who owns the place offered a unique ‘kill your own chicken for us to cook’ service (you don’t have to; they can do it for you if you’d prefer). Dave opted to do the honours – brave man. A while later, a BBQed, spatchcocked bird appeared smelling wonderful. It was served with rice, greens and the most amazing sauces – peanut and fresh chilli. We really loved that meal. It cost us 230,000 VND ($10) each, and was so worth it.

Goc Ha Thanh in Dalat came in at 322,000 each (around $14) – that included a starter of spring rolls, coconut prawn curries, a side of veg, water, and local wine. Who knew very drinkable wine was made in Dalat?!

Average daily food cost: $8.57 per day, or $4.29 each

More on drinks next…

We sipped on plenty of bottled water which was dirt cheap, plus beers, and the odd cocktail here and there. A large water cost us about 50 cents.

In Hanoi, ‘fresh beer’ (bia hoi) is famous, and even cheaper than water. It cost us around 8,000 VND (35 cents) a glass. We only found this sold in the capital, out of big freezer chests. It was made fresh each day with few preservatives; foamy and quite light in alcohol. We highly recommend you try it.

Otherwise, we tended to share large bottles of local beer; they came in at about $1 a bottle.

Oh, and for lovers of the chocolate bar Bounty, or fans of coconut in general, you MUST pay Cong Caphe a visit. We stopped at outposts in Hanoi and Saigon. Their coconut smoothie was one of the best things I drank (a bold claim I know) – so good and so simple. It was made of coconut milk whizzed up with crushed ice and coffee. Yum. The chocolate and coconut version was equally delicious too. And the price? 45,000 VND each (about $2). Heavenly, and totally worth it.

In Saigon, we visited Pasteur Street Brewing , where a bottle was 70,000 VND (approximately $3). Dearer than local brands like Bia Saigon, but it was craft beer – and very good.

We indulged in happy hour cocktails at Mango Rooms in Hoi An a few times. They cost about 100,000 each (approximately $4). Keep an eye out for 2 for 1 deals – we found them a great way to be able to sample drinks we may not have done otherwise.

Average daily drink cost: $4.82 per day, or $2.41 each

Like I said, we can’t talk highly enough of the Vietnamese cuisine. Flavourful, packed a spice punch, and totally delicious. Such great value for money, too.

OUR TOTAL COST OF FOOD AND DRINK IN VIETNAM CAME TO $375. THAT’S AN AVERAGE OF $13.40 PER DAY, OR $6.70 EACH.

vietnam trip quora

MISCELLANEOUS EXPENSES IN VIETNAM

A local SIM card:  I don’t know about you, but one of my least favourite aspects of arriving in a new country is having to figure out how to get connected. Specifically: buying a local SIM card so that I have data to use while I’m in the country.

There’s locating a store that will sell you one, language barriers to deal with, various forms of ID you might need to bring, scams to navigate, and… well, it’s a headache.

This year, I started using  Airalo , which sells local e-SIM cards for travellers. What that means is that you can buy your SIM card online  before  you arrive in Vietnam, and then as soon as you land in the country, you can switch on your data and start using it. It’s worked flawlessly for me and now, I’ll never go back to physical SIM cards. You’ll pay  $4.50 for 1 GB of data  for Vietnam and can also top-up through the Airalo app.

Make sure your phone is eSIM-compatible before buying — all recent iPhones and many Androids are.

Travel insurance : If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to Vietnam. Firstly, they’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re more affordable than the competition, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

With SafetyWing, you’ll pay  $1.50 a day  for travel insurance.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO TRAVEL IN VIETNAM?

Okay, so after adding everything up, here are costs per person:

  • Accommodation: $21 per day
  • Transport: $4.30 per day
  • Activities: $7.50 per day
  • Food and drink: $6.70 per day
  • Miscellaneous: $1.50 per day

Grand total spent in Vietnam: $41 per person per day .

Vietnam was excellent value for money, and a highlight of our year. We saw untold wonderful sights, ate incredibly well, and stayed at a range of quality accommodation.

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS? DID YOU EXPECT TO BE ABLE TO TRAVEL THROUGH VIETNAM FOR THAT PRICE?

Related Articles on Vietnam 🇻🇳 Photos of Ridiculous Things on Bikes in Vietnam

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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13 comments.

An epic post, Laura! Covers everything I need to know about travel in Vietnam and how much it’ll cost me.

HI Laura, This as a great post – IM a new traveller so very helpful! Can you tell me how long did it take to organise a visa and do you have to have any vaccinations? (Im not partial to them …) Thanks!

It took about 48 hours for my visa to be approved — super easy process, so no worries about that.

There are a few vaccines that are recommended (although not required) — hepatitis A&B and typhoid, in particular — I got both of those vaccines back in 2011 when I first started travelling, then got a top-up a few years ago. Japanese encephalitis is a good idea if you’re going to be staying in any rural areas. It’s not worth taking anti-malarials, as dengue is the real problem there, not malaria — I have multiple friends who have contracted dengue in Vietnam and been really sick, one of whom was left with chronic joint pain from the virus. Because of this, definitely take care to cover up when mosquitoes are active (around sunset) and/or use lots of insect repellent. Dengue really is the biggest thing you need to worry about, as there’s a lot of it in Vietnam. COVID vaccines aren’t required to enter the country anymore.

I’ve had tons of vaccines, though — pretty much any travel-related ones you can get! As somebody who contracted cholera[!!] because I skipped getting the vaccine (and still have health issues from the illness, five years later), I resolved to get every vaccine I could. It sucked to get that sick and know I could have prevented it.

But either way, to answer your question, there’s several that are recommended but none that are mandatory.

Great post! Just confirming are your prices here in USD?

Thanks so much! Yes, they’re in USD.

Hi Lauren, my daughter and I are planning a trip to Vietnam in August. Great to find helpful info on your site, but just wondering what currency your pricing is based on? Travelling as a Kiwi I may need to double it!

Hi Jacqui, My hubby and I are also going in August. I was wondering the same thing as we are Aussies. We’ve been before but 12 years ago so I can’t remember alot and obviously things have changed. When we went last time I only booked the first 3 nights and the concierge at the hotel booked the rest of the 2 weeks for us for $600AUD each which included all accommodation, travel and sight seeing for the whole 2 weeks. It worked out at about a third of the price of what I’d have paid in Australia. I’m really tempted to just do the same again. Enjoy your trip and who knows – maybe we’ll see you on the road!

One of my favorite things about Vietnam was how inexpensive it was! I just came back from two weeks in SE Asia and I really can’t wait to go back. Vietnam was my favorite place we went. The people are SO a friendly and it really was an excellent experience. The food is amazing. And I love that you can get grabs for like $2 across Ho Chi Minh City. I came back to America and cringed paying $40 for my Uber back from the airport haha. I miss the food and people so much already! Planning to try my hand at making egg coffee- I saved a website that tells you how so hopefully it turns out well.

Fantastic article – thank you so much!

This post is really helpful, thank you so much.

How did you apply for a visa? I am in Australia and I hear there are lots of scams and I am not quite sure on what is the best process.

I would love to travel to Vietnam, but found it hard to figure out public transportation. is there a website you know of that is helpful? country is very long are there tips you recommend to save time ie special routes and travel time like overnight….

Hi Shiva! I use 12Go in Southeast Asia and book all of my buses, minivans, and trains through there. You’ll pay an extra dollar or so to use the service but it makes it sooo much easier than hunting down a travel agent to book everything in person! I personally am not a huge fan of travelling overnight as I find I always sleep terribly and lose much of the next day to napping and exhaustion — you may be different though. It’s worth experimenting with for sure! Plus you save money on accommodation by travelling overnight :-) Flying can definitely save you time for some longer legs and domestic flights in Vietnam are always pretty affordable.

Excellent post – thank you for such a thoughtful and detailed overview of your experience.

I’m looking for a place to stay in Hanoi – I was wondering the name of the hotel you have pictured near the top of the article, with a pool overlooking the river. If you could please let me know the name of this place I will be eternally grateful!

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12 Of The Best Places To Visit In Vietnam For The An Amazing Trip

Vietnam is a treasure trove of all things nature and culture and here are the best places to visit in the country..

By: Anushka Goel Published: Jan 27, 2023 02:30 PM SGT

12 Of The Best Places To Visit In Vietnam For The An Amazing Trip

One of the most sought-after Southeast Asian travel destinations over the last couple of years has been Vietnam. The country is a treasure trove of all things nature and culture, and is amazing for the budget traveller, too. So, if you’re planning on travelling, here are the best places to visit in Vietnam.

If you’re looking to visit more countries this year, Vietnam should be on your bucket list. The country is complete with scenic landscapes and ancient architectural sights such as temples. Great for budget travellers , Vietnam has ample city experiences and some of the most delectable street food options.

Vietnam is also great for digital nomads and expats, as SGD 1 equals VND 17,830, roughly. So, in case you’re planning to visit this beautiful, cultural nation, here’s your guide to the best places to visit in Vietnam for an enriching experience.

Places to visit in Vietnam for an amazing experience

Ha long bay.

vietnam travel

Ha Long Bay (also spelled as Halong Bay) is a beautiful destination that boasts of azure waters and clear skies. The place speaks of tranquility, and it consists of limestone formations which make it all the more mesmerising. The best way to experience this UNESCO World Heritage Site is through boats, so be sure to hire one when in the area. Ha Long Bay also offers overnight tours to get enchanted in its mesmerising beauty through the night. It is truly among the best places to visit in Vietnam, and will make for a memorable experience (or two)!

How to reach: Ha Long Bay can be reached via road (about four hours from Hanoi) and train (a station is in Ha Long City). The closest airports are Van Don Airport, Noi Bai International Airport and Cat Bi International Airport.

Book your stay at Dora Cruise here

places to visit in vietnam

The Vietnamese capital is a place vibrant with local culture blended with ample modern amenities, making it a great place to visit and stay at. The second largest city in the country, Hanoi also offers some unique experiences such as dining along a railway track, delectable street food , ample lakes, museums and many architectural marvels.

How to reach: Hanoi, being the capital, is well-connected via roads, air and train. International flights from various cities in India also ply to Hanoi multiple times in a week.

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Cu chi tunnel.

Places to visit in Vietnam

Vietnam has seen its fair share of war, and thus, the country also has some destinations that take you back to the era. Among them is the Cu Chi Tunnels. The extensive network of these tunnels was used during the war, and the stretch for over 250 kilometres. They allowed troops to operate and communicate with Ho Chi Minh City. When here, get a guide who will take you through the narrow, unlit areas of the tunnel – so much so that you might have to go down on your knees and crawl through some sections!

How to reach: You can reach here via road from Ho Chi Minh City

Mekong Delta

places to visit in Vietnam

Mekong Delta is formed where the Mekong River finds its wat to the city. Among the best places to visit in Vietnam, the destination is characterised by the crisscross maze that the waterways form. Also known as the ‘Rice Bowl of Vietnam’, the destination is complete with lush paddy fields and a robust local life. Visit the floating markets via boat and see places such as the U Minh Mangrove Forest and Cau Mau Nature Reserve, among other beautiful places here.

How to reach: The place is accessible via road

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places to visit in vietnam

Among the places to visit in Vietnam us Hue. The town is a historic location, filled with relics from 19th century Nguyen emperors. Witness marvellous archaeological sites, the magnificent Perfume River, old but mighty gates, tombs, pagodas and a lot more on your visit here.

How to reach: The closest international airport is in Da Nang, while the domestic airport closest to Hue is 30 minutes away. The place is also reachable via train and road

Ho Chi Minh City

places to visit in Vietnam

The largest city in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is the commercial centre here. Visit for its restaurants and cafes, insane cosmopolitan culture and its heritage spots, too. At the centre of the city is Dong Khoi, known for most of the city’s touristy destinations . Visit Ho Chi Minh City’s museums that house relics and artefacts from the 19th century and before, plus experience the stunning (and few surviving) examples of the French colonial architecture here.

How to reach: Ho Chi Minh City is well-connected via air, road and train. The international airport here also connects the country to major cities abroad

places to visit in Vietnam

My Son is an important site in Vietnam and is one of the most stunning and charming places to visit. The place is surrounded by mountains covered in a dense cover of forests. The ruins in My Son date back to the 4th Century, and this old Hindu religious centre is still much in use till date. The temples located here are made or red bricks and sandstone and have influences from India and Malaysia.

How to reach: My Son is accessible via Hoi An, and can be reached via road

most beautiful places in Asia_Hoi An

Hoi An is a town complete with lots of history. The place has beautiful (and well-preserved) merchant houses, going back to Hoi An’s trading era in the 15the century, is an important part of the country’s trade history with Japan and China. A lot of these houses are open to the public, where you can visit and experience those times. What’s more, the many small pagodas and beautiful, quaint streets to transport you back to the simple times.

How to reach: Da Nang International Airport is about 30 kilometres from Hoi An, and you can also reach here by road

Book your stay at Citadines Pearl Hoi An here

vietnam travel

If you want to spend a couple of days in the quiet countryside, head to Sapa. The place shares its border with China, and is complete with terraced hills and many slopes. The rural villages and raw, authentic life here is what is attractive about Sapa, which makes it great for those wanting to stay away from the cities. Head there for treks and some calm. Purchase handmade jewellery and head to the gothic church, colonial sites and more.

How to reach: The nearest train station is in Lao Cai, and Sapa is reachable by car from most major towns

Places to visit in Vietnam

What makes Phu Quoc popular is its clear blue waters and white sand beaches, making it a popular destination for travellers. Located in the south of Vietnam, Phu Quoc is great for sipping on cocktails as the sun goes down, grabbing a bike to trail the dirt roads, and fun local markets with delectable cuisine and beverages.

How to reach: Phu Quoc is connected via air and roads. You can also board a ferry till here from several other destinations

vietnam trip quora

Yet another destination known for its sandy beaches is Nha Trang. Among the places to visit in Vietnam, this city is packed with locals as well as visitors, and has ample spots for you to hit the water as well as soak up the sun. And in case you’re done exploring the beaches, the destination has old temples and towers that you should head to and explore. There’s also a museum here, dedicated to the work of Alexandre Yersin, that you should visit.

How to reach: The nearest airport is Cam Rahn, and the destination is also reachable via road. Trains also reach Nha Trang

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

places to visit in Vietnam

One of the most magnificent places to visit in Vietnam is the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. The place, which is also a popular filming location, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful spots in the country, and is home to the 400-million-year old karst mountains. There are hundreds of caves and secret rivers here that will enchant you. The best part? There’s a hidden jungle, filled with its own microclimate, tucked away here!

How to reach: The nearest airport is Dong Hoi, which is connected via domestic flights. The destination is also reachable via road

Hero Image: Courtesy of Steve Douglas/Unsplash; Featured Image: Courtesy of Tomáš Malík/Unsplash

Related: Vietnam Travel Guide: Where To Go, What To Eat And Everything You Need To Know

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Anushka Goel

Anushka Goel

Anushka has previously worked with publications such as the Times of India and Being Indian. A graduate from Xavier Institute of Communications, she specialises in entertainment, food and travel. She also likes to write about sustainability and beauty. When not working, you can catch her reading a book, tending to her plants, cooking or playing an instrument. Read Less

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Let’s be honest about Phu Quoc in Vietnam – Is Phu Quoc Worth Visiting?

Here's our honest opinions about the island of Phu Quoc in Vietnam. Does Phu Quoc really have the best beaches in Vietnam, or is development ruining the island?

Beaches in Phu Quoc Vietnam

Our Impressions Of Phu Quoc

In February 2019, we spent a couple of weeks in Vietnam’s largest island, Phu Quoc, which is located off the south coast of this amazing country.

This was part of our five-month trip to SE Asia, so we were interested in doing some sightseeing but also to have a comfortable base by the sea. The idea being we could work for a couple of hours a day, and go for a swim and relax on the beach for the rest of the time.

Theoretically, Phu Quoc seemed to tick these boxes, especially according to everything we read. The reality was however a little different. So, we came up with the format we first used when talking about Chiang Mai in Thailand in order to reveal what we actually thought.

In this Phu Quoc travel blog, you can read about our impressions of Phu Quoc island. We have given our personal views independently, so that you can get a better idea if you want to visit Phu Quoc.

Riding a moped in Phu Quoc

Expectations Of Phu Quoc Before We Went There

Dave:  Wow, Vietnam's got some islands? Let's go and check them out! I'm not sure what to expect, but Phu Quoc's got to have beaches to chill out on. The internet access also seems pretty good from what I've seen. Let's travel to Phu Quoc!

Vanessa: I first read about Phu Quoc when we were still in Chiang Mai , in January 2019. It sounded like a great place to visit – warm weather, amazing beaches and a vibrant night food market.

Compared to some other popular places on the coast of Vietnam, like Hoi An and Nha Trang, it sounded a lot more quiet, and that’s the main reason we went for it.

I have to say, my expectations for Phu Quoc were pretty high, and after leaving land-locked Chiang Mai I was looking forward to spending a few days on the beach.

First Impressions Of Phu Quoc

Dave: I think it was dark when we arrived, so no real first impressions until we arrived at the accommodation. It was up a dirt road, and we were welcomed by the friendly lady who runs the place. The area seemed quiet with no pumping music. There were a few mosquitoes about.

Vanessa: We landed in Phu Quoc airport, and we had a pick-up to our accommodation close to the island’s most famous beach, Long Beach. Although it was dark, we could see several tall buildings and beach resorts.

This was really far from my idea of Phu Quoc, which I had thought was a largely unspoiled, tropical island similar to Koh Lanta in Thailand .

I wasn’t thrilled, but knowing that the island is very big, I thought I’d wait until the morning to see what the place is really like.

What Was It Like To Stay In Phu Quoc

Dave: It was pretty obvious we'd need to get a moped to get around on from day one, so that's what we did. As a result, this gave us a lot of mobility and freedom to visit everywhere we might want to.

The moped did break down one day, and we kind of cruised back into town at 2 miles per hour. It was all swapped over with no hassle though, which was lovely.

The area we were staying in seemed to be little Russia. There were plenty of Russian shops, and menus in restaurants had Russian menus (along with English). I guess I felt how a Russian would feel going to the Costa del Sol in Spain and expecting authentic Spain!

Our daily needs were all well met – Plenty of places to eat, a night market, supermarkets etc. From memory, getting hold of decent fruit and veg nearby seemed to be a problem for us. There was a better market further about a 10km drive away.

The biggest observation though, was the construction works. New buildings, roads, hotels – it was never ending. As we explored the island further, there were unbelievable big complexes being constructed at the south of the island, with possibly time-share apartments. 

Phu Quoc was an island undergoing rapid change. And it was obvious to see that the new buildings were obliterating the charm that might have made the island attractive even just a handful of years ago.

Ong Lang Beach in Vietnam

Vanessa : Although we had originally planned to stay for ten days in Phu Quoc, we ended up staying a few more days, as our room was very convenient and we had the chance to meet a few other travelers. Getting around the island on a moped was very easy, even with the scorching midday sun.

There was not much to do in our immediate area apart from a few restaurants and bars, though I don’t remember seeing any locals sitting down for a meal. Long Beach was very close, but in my opinion there was nothing special about it, though it served its purpose when we wanted a quick splash.

In terms of food, there were a few local markets on the island where we got fresh fruit and veg. We also found a few supermarkets and minimarkets that seemed to sell tons of processed sugary food, a few local snacks with no labels on, and some things that we were actually looking for.

As for restaurants, I think that in our two weeks in Phu Quoc we only had three meals that were good. We found the rest average or below average, contrary to what we had been led to believe by reading Phu Quoc island reviews.

What We Thought Of Things To Do In Phu Quoc

Dave:  With the moped, it was easy just to hop on, and go and check out a new thing everyday. We certainly never got bored, and in two weeks, never saw everything. There's plenty of things to do in Phu Quoc !

Our biggest disappointment however, were Phu Quoc's beaches. There was so much rubbish washed up, it made me embarrassed to be a human.

This embarrassment turned to disgust on Sao Beach though. According to any Phu Quoc blog you read this is supposed to be one of the best beaches in Vietnam if not Asia, but it was simply terrible.

Sure, there is a really pretty bit which EVERYONE takes their photos at, but those photos only tell half the story.

Sao Beach in Phu Quoc

Either side of this pristine stretch of sand, are sections where tonnes of garbage has washed up. Check out the photo below!

20 metres to the left of Sao Beach

No, that's not a dead body. Somebody actually decided that was a good place to soak up some sun.

Vanessa: Phu Quoc is a big island with a very long coastline, so its number one attraction for me was the beaches. Unfortunately, I was overall pretty disappointed with the beaches in Phu Quoc (see below) especially after all the great comments we had read before getting to the island. I love snorkeling, but I didn’t see anything special close to the island. There were snorkeling tours off the coast, but I didn’t take one.

Phu Quoc Night Market

As we had already been to several night markets in SE Asia, the one in Phu Quoc didn’t particularly stand out, though we quite liked some of the street food and the rolled ice-cream. On the plus side, the market wasn’t very busy overall, in contrast to many of the night markets in Chiang Mai.

Eating street food in Phu Quoc

One of the highlights of the island was a small rooftop bar right in the night market called House no 1, hosting a movie night on Sundays. It was very surreal watching The Royal Tenenbaums and Punch-Drunk Love at a random rooftop bar in Vietnam, together with a small mouse and a cat trying to chase it away.

Right next door, there was a vegan restaurant called Loving Hut Thai Duong, which we quite liked.

The Sunworld Cable Car in Phu Quoc

The thing that impressed me more about Phu Quoc was its awesome cable car, connecting Phu Quoc with a smaller island further south, Hon Thom.

This amazing construction took several years to make, and it takes about 15 minutes to get from Phu Quoc to Hon Thom.

Cable Car Phu Quoc

The views from the cable car were truly breathtaking, as the car passes over two smaller islands and a fishing village.

The photos and videos don’t really do them much justice!

Cable car beach in Phu Quoc

Arriving at Hon Thom Island though was rather disappointing. While the island itself is very pretty, there were few designated areas of the beach where people are allowed to go to, and guards were pretty strict, especially towards the non-Vietnamese.

A massive waterpark is currently in the making, and there are many buildings and constructions that simply do not fit the lush tropical environment.

While I was fascinated by the whole enterprise, a side of me kept thinking that it’s all a big mistake, and that nature should be protected and respected.

What Disappointed Us About Phu Quoc

Dave:  The beaches were the main disappointment, closely followed by what can only be described as uncontrolled development. The two are probably closely related. 

I've travelled enough over the last 25 years to know that it's all going to end badly at Phu Quoc. And it's likely to be unrecoverable as well.

Construction in Phu Quoc

Vanessa: Coming from Greece, my beach standards are pretty high. Although not all beaches in Greece are great, I am lucky to have travelled a lot around my country, and really appreciate how stunning some of the Greek beaches are.

Some of the beaches that we saw on other islands in SE Asia, such as Kapas Island in Malaysia , Koh Lanta in Thailand or Con Dao in Vietnam were fantastic. So I was quite eager to explore the beaches in Phu Quoc.

We didn’t visit all of the beaches in Phu Quoc. Some of them belonged to resorts and they wouldn’t let us in and some others were quite difficult to reach. Also, the island is big, and riding a moped in 35 degrees can be exhausting!

But I won’t lie – I found the beaches in Phu Quoc rather disappointing, even though some of them constantly rate among the best beaches in Vietnam.

Starting with Long Beach, it was way too crowded, and there was too much infrastructure around. To a certain degree this is understandable, since it’s the most popular beach in Phu Quoc. Still, I thought it didn’t have a character, and buildings seemed to have been built rather haphazardly – just like in Athens!

Sao beach in Vietnam

Our greatest disappointment was Sao Beach, at the south-east coast of the island, for which I had the highest expectations. This beach was really very picturesque, with all the palm trees and white sand we see in photos.

However, half of the beach was occupied by people, beach bars and an overload of water activities, and the other half of the beach was completely deserted and quiet, but also full of rubbish. The water was really murky, and overall it was a complete disappointment, so we didn’t stay there at all.

Other areas and beaches of the island seemed to be entirely occupied by massive resorts. We tried to access three or four beaches on the coast, only to be sent away by the hotel security guards.

Overall, I felt it’s a shame that this beautiful, green, tropical island has been so built up – and it’s clear that there’s going to be more and more infrastructure. As for the cable car mentioned above, it was really amazing to take the ride, but part of me regrets being a part of it, as it has already had a large impact on the environment.

Why We Think Phu Quoc Is Popular With Foreign Visitors

Starfish beach in Phu Quoc

Dave: It's obviously being marketed as a cheap winter sun destination for Europeans. Right now, I'd say Russians make up the largest proportion of package tourists, but I know they are also advertising to Brits.

In all fairness, Phu Quoc in February is always going to be better than Grimsby in the winter, so I imagine the package tourists will think it's fantastic. For people knocking around Asia a bit longer though, it's likely to come as a bit of a disappointment.

Vanessa: One of the things that make Phu Quoc popular with foreign visitors is that you don’t need a visa to go there. We already had our visa for Vietnam and our ticket for Phu Quoc before we realized this, but for other travelers it’s really easy to get there.

At the same time, we heard that there are direct flights from Europe, so it’s easy and convenient to get to. Life there is fairly inexpensive, and the weather is great. I totally understand why some people would want to go there.

Would We Go Back To Phu Quoc

Dave: You know, despite my feelings that Phu Quoc isn't the greatest place on earth, I would actually go back. The reason being, is that it ticks certain boxes for being able to work on the road, it does have affordable accommodation if you look, and it's easy to get around by hiring a moped.

So, if I found myself in Asia with a month to fill in, I could easily see that Phu Quoc would be a place I would consider. And now I know what it's actually like, the feeling of disappointment wouldn't be there.

Vanessa: By now it’s clear that Phu Quoc was far from my favourite place in SE Asia, as I found it fairly touristy and was very disappointed in terms of the infrastructure and the massive resorts.

I personally wouldn’t go back, as we had enough time to explore the island and see what it’s about. There are hundreds of islands in SE Asia that I’d like to visit when we go back!

Cost Of Living In Phu Quoc – More Or Less Than We Thought

A handful of Vietnamese Dong

Dave: My memories of the cost of living, seem to be that prices for food in restaurants were higher than we knew was the ‘real' Vietnamese price. The thing is, we weren't exactly in the ‘real' Vietnam, so what did we expect!

With that said, it wasn't too outrageous, and as I don't drink or smoke, my basic living needs are just accommodation and 3 (or 4 or 5) meals a day.

Where we stayed was a real bonus as it was cheap at around 20 euro per night, and also had a kitchen where we could prepare some meals ourselves.

Vanessa: The cost of staying in Phu Quoc for a couple of weeks was really quite low compared to other places we visited in SE Asia.

Although I am sure that Phu Quoc is more expensive than other popular places in Vietnam, there were plenty of rooms for under 20 euro / night.

Where to stay in Phu Quoc : We stayed at a place called Bamboo Resort , with spacious rooms and communal kitchens, and I would recommend it unless you dislike cats and dogs. 

Is Phu Quoc An “Authentic Asia Experience”?

Let's be honest about Phu Quoc in Vietnam

Dave: Haha – no!

Vanessa: After spending a few months in Asia, defining “an Authentic Asia Experience” has become rather complicated.

There are places like Koh Jum, which attracts relatively few foreign tourists, and places like Bangkok where pretty much anything goes.

However, I don’t think I would call Phu Quoc an authentic Asia experience, given that it seems to be geared towards European tourists.

I would definitely not suggest Phu Quoc to people looking for unspoilt beaches and genuine local culture. In retrospect, I would have preferred to stay longer in Con Dao instead of Phu Quoc.

Would You Recommend Phu Quoc As A Destination?

Dave:  If you are travelling through Asia on a long trip, and want to check it out then sure, go for it. If you are looking for a unique one-off destination, then no. There is no way I would recommend Phu Quoc as a stand-alone holiday destination – Unless you have just endured the British winter in Grimsby of course!

Vanessa: A friend of mine was recently asking if they should go to Phu Quoc, and my immediate answer was “I wouldn’t suggest it”.

Obviously, this depends on everyone’s style and preferences when they travel. Without having explored the island fully, I couldn’t say what the other beaches are like, or whether other parts of the island are less affected by tourism.

But my first impression was actually my last – too much infrastructure, and therefore not my cup of tea. However, for some people this is attractive, so it really depends on who is asking.

FAQ About Vietnam Phu Quoc

Here are some commonly asked questions by people planning to travel Phu Quoc:

Is it worth visiting Phu Quoc?

It depends what you are looking for. This is no longer an ‘authentic' Vietnamese island destination, but a rapidly developing resort destination with casinos and amusement parks. Europeans might find it a pleasant winter sun destination.

Is Phu Quoc island safe?

The crime rates in Phu Quoc are very low. Tourists should be aware of the usual scams though, such as bait and switch products, counterfeit goods, and the like.

How many days should I spend in Phu Quoc?

Phu Quoc is a popular winter sun destination, so people tend to spend a week or more there. Long term travelers in the region might spend 3 or 4 days there before moving on, or spend a month there if they feel it is a good place to be based as a digital nomad.

How do you get around in Phu Quoc?

By far the easiest way to get around Phu Quoc is by scooter. They are available to rent either through your accommodation or at local rental places, and cost very little per day.

As you see, our impressions in this Phu Quoc travel guide are not exactly identical, which only proves that everyone is different. Have you been to Phu Quoc? What did you think to it? Let us know in the comments!

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Dave Briggs visiting an island in Greece

8 thoughts on “Let’s be honest about Phu Quoc in Vietnam – Is Phu Quoc Worth Visiting?”

This made interesting reading as I am looking at having a holiday in Vietnam early 2024 and thought Phu Quoc might be a good option for a few days break. However I think I have changed my mind based on this blog. We spent 4 weeks in Thailand (Krabi and Phuket) in February 2023 and it is over run with Russians. I vowed not to go back to Thailand as I felt it had lost all its charm because it was like little Russia. Also incredibly sad about the pollution on the beaches.

I do totally agree. Unfortunately this island has become too touristic, in a bad way. There are major issues with plastic as there are too many enormous resorts. Everywhere plastic and trash and awful buildings which do not fit. The beautiful nature has been destroyed

The trash was disgusting. We also watched the local with their little one in the large pile of trash trapped between the shore and peer. Just horrible!

Agree with most of your feelings/observations, although I don’t believe you ventured North of the island, Gold Coast resort is where I stayed. Beaches are usually far cleaner up there and less tourists generally since it’s an hour from the airport and half an hour to the hub of the island.

Potential travellers please take this blog with a grain of salt. Phu Quoc has a great vibe.

Con Dao is not somewhere you could spend more than a day or two… it’s incredibly beautiful, scootering around the island is insane… but it’s absolutely dead, and there’s honestly a kind of dark/weird vibe on the island.

Phu Quoc isn’t exactly like Koh Lanta no, but it’s 100 times more similar to koh lanta than Con Dao is.

Hi christian, I wondered if you struck extreme wind on con Dao, as i read this to be so. It is the only reason i would choose Phu quoc over it. We will be there in Mid November , like you. C

Hi, I’m travelling to Vietnam at the end of February next year for a 3 week holiday. We are planning on travelling a bit between the south and north but also wanted to squeeze in some snorkelling. I’ve heard that Phu Quoc and Con Dao islands offer this but I have also heard mixed reviews of both these destinations so not sure it’s worth taking the time out of our trip to travel here. Would you have any advice on this?

thanks Katherine

Hi Katherine, The snorkeling in Con Dao is by far the best in Vietnam, and a close second to Pulau Kapas in Malaysia in our experience. Keep in mind that Con Dao is less touristy for westerners compared to other areas of Asia though. If you only have time for one island, I’d say make it Con Dao for a more unique experience (make sure to hire a bike to get around!!)

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Best 7 Days Vietnam Itinerary From India – Vietnam Guide

Vietnam Itinerary

This is a detailed 7 day Vietnam itinerary covering the cities of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Nha Trang, it is a complete Vietnam travel guide.

7 Days Vietnam Itinerary

Vietnam is a mesmerizing melange of stunning natural beauty, rich traditions and culture, and unique cuisine. A Vietnam itinerary makes for an experience that is sure to sweep you off your feet, in more ways than one. It was love at first sight for us when we visited the country for the first time. After Thailand and Cambodia, Vietnam was the third country we visited, which was cradled by the Mekong River .

The Mekong River flows through six countries, the other three being China, Myanmar, and Lao PDR, making it one of the longest rivers in the world. If you are planning a trip to Vietnam, this 1 Week Vietnam Itinerary, based on our personal experience, will surely help you in scripting your own Vietnam adventure.

Table of Contents

Vietnam Travel Guide – 7 Days In Vietnam

We spent 7 days in Vietnam and covered three cities – Hanoi, Nha Trang, and Ho Chi Minh City . Our Vietnam itinerary also included the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay which is located approximately at a distance of about 180 kilometres from Hanoi city. We flew from India’s capital city Delhi to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam on a Vietnam Airlines flight . We also flew on Vietnam Airlines flights for our travel within Vietnam.

This post is more than just a Vietnam 7-Day Itinerary . It is a Guide To Vietnam , especially for first-time visitors to Vietnam. Apart from information about where to visit in Vietnam for the first time, you shall also find information on where to eat, where to stay, currency, language, transportation, and the best time to visit Vietnam . Also included specifically for travellers to Vietnam from India is information about Vietnam trip costs from India , and Vietnam visa for Indians .

Best Vietnam Itinerary – Vietnam In Seven Days

Vietnam In Seven Days

We flew from Bangalore to Delhi, from where we boarded our Vietnam Airlines flight to Hanoi. Currently, you can fly to Vietnam from Delhi or Mumbai, there are direct flights to Hanoi from these places. This Vietnam itinerary spans over seven days and includes the day of arrival in Hanoi and the day of departure from Vietnam.

Vietnam Trip Itinerary – Day One In Hanoi

Vietnam Trip Itinerary

We arrived in the wee hour of the morning at the Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi. Immigration was a breeze and we were out of the airport in quick time. Hanoi is the political and cultural capital of Vietnam and there are many Places to visit in Hanoi and interesting experiences to be savoured. We had a packed day ahead. So after checking in at our hotel, Silk Path, we were ready to explore the attractions of Hanoi.

Vietnam Itinerary – Temple of Literature Hanoi

Vietnam Itinerary - Temple of Literature Hanoi

The Temple of Literature is a nice place to start your Hanoi sightseeing. Dating back to the year 1070, this Confucian temple also served as a place of learning exclusively for members of the royal clans. It has the distinction of hosting the first, “ University of Vietnam ,” known as, “ The Imperial Academy ,” between 1076 to 1779 and is located amidst tranquil environs right in the middle of the city.

The Temple of Literature is made up of gardens, pavilions, a lake, and temples. You should not miss the Stellae or stone tablets erected on the bodies of turtles. Incidentally, the turtle (Quy), is one of the 4 holy creatures that are revered in Vietnam, the other three are; Dragon (Long), Unicorn (Ly), and Phoenix (Phuong).  These were erected to honour those who were successful in the royal exams. Something like your degree certificate, but the difference is that these were etched in stone. The Temple of Literature on the currency note of the 100,000 Vietnamese Dong note.

Vietnam Itinerary – Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Hanoi

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Hanoi

A visit to Hanoi would be incomplete without visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum , the place where the embalmed body of the legendary Vietnamese leader lies. The mausoleum is in the centre of the historic Ba Dinh Square, where Ho Chi Minh read the Proclamation of Independence on 2 September 1945, which gave birth to the Democratic Republic of Vietnam.

The embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh called Uncle Ho by the grateful people of Vietnam lies in a glass chamber inside the mausoleum. The public is allowed inside the Mausoleum in the morning hours between 7.30 AM to 10.30 AM on all days except Mondays and Fridays.

Vietnam Itinerary – One Pillar Pagoda Hanoi

One Pillar Pagoda Hanoi

One can take a stroll in Ba Dinh Square and walk to the iconic One Pillar Pagoda Temple which is within walking distance. The One Pillar Pagoda is located in a serene setting and is a Buddhist temple that as the name suggests stands on one pillar. It is one of the famous temples of Hanoi whose origins date back to the 11th century. It was built by Emperor Ly Thai Tong. The structure was completely damaged in the year 1954, however, the current structure is the one that was restored in 1955 by Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture.

Vietnam Itinerary – Indian Vegetarian Lunch

Vietnam Itinerary - Indian Vegetarian Lunch

After visiting the One Pillar Pagoda, we made our way to the Maazi Restaurant in Hanoi which served Indian food. There are many Indian restaurants in Hanoi so Indians and vegetarians can get their quota of spicy food easily. It was an elaborate lunch at the Maazi restaurant, complete with Pani  Poori, Paneer Tikka, Dal, Vegetable Pulao, different curries, in short, the works!

Vietnam Itinerary – Cycle Rickshaw Tour of Old Quarter Hanoi

Cycle Rickshaw Tour of Old Quarter Hanoi

After a heavy lunch, we hopped on a cycle rickshaw and sat back to enjoy a ride that took us through the historic Old Quarter of Hanoi. This area is the heart of Hanoi and connects the city to its roots. The ride gave us an immersive experience of the city’s culture and the local way of life.

We saw locals sitting on low stools on street corners with friends and family exhibiting a unique community bonding. They bonded over cups of coffee, small barbeques in front of them, or bowls of Pho  Bo, the famous street food of Vietnam. As Christmas was not far away, some of the shops were gaily decorated and it was a riot of colours, men and women were busy shopping as they sauntered on the streets dodging bikes and cycle rickshaws.

Vietnam Itinerary – Kiem Hoan Lake Hanoi

Kiem Hoan Lake Hanoi

The Hoan Kiem Lake is a green lung space right in the middle of the Old Quarter. It is a popular evening hangout with locals, as we found out. The shimmering waters of the lake and the red-coloured bridge that connected to the small island in the centre of the lake presented a beautiful sight as the sun sank on the western horizon. The lake is surrounded by parks and gardens. The Lake is also referred to as the Sword Lake, or Lake of The Restored Sword, based on a Vietnamese legend associated with the Golden Turtle God (Kim Qui).

The Hoan Kiem Lake is just across the road from the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, and hence it was convenient for us to spend some time at the lake before our show began at the theatre.

Vietnam Itinerary – Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre Hanoi

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre Hanoi

Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi is part of Vietnam’s culture and heritage. It is a craft that involves skill and a unique method of storytelling. It brings alive the culture of rural Vietnam and its legends and myths alive in a unique way. Water Puppet shows can be seen in Hanoi as well as other cities including Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon).

In Hanoi, Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre is where you get to experience this unique art. We watched the show with fascination. It was a fascinating fusion of music, skilful puppetry, and storytelling. The group of puppeteers stood in the water behind the screen for the entire show working at their craft. The moment at the end of the show when the puppeteers appeared from behind the curtains to take their bows standing knee-deep in water, was truly magical.

Vietnam Itinerary – Dinner Time

Indian restaurants in Hanoi, the Tandoor

After the Water Puppet Show, we took a short walk in the Old Quarter area to one of the popular Indian restaurants in Hanoi, the Tandoor . We had another satisfying Indian vegetarian dinner, which was very good, before making our way back to the Silk Path Hotel to retire for the night. We had to leave early morning the next day for Ha Long Bay.

Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days – Day Two In Hanoi

Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days - Day Two In Hanoi

It is always an intriguing experience waking up in a new land far away from home. You wake up with excitement, looking forward to new experiences. That is exactly how we woke up in Hanoi on day 2 of our Vietnam trip. We were travelling to Ha Long Bay and hence had to leave our hotel early. The hotel had arranged a packed breakfast for us which we had on our way to the Ha Long International Cruise Port , a drive of about two and a half hours from Hanoi.

Vietnam Itinerary – Aboard Ambassador Luxury Cruise

Aboard Ambassador Luxury Cruise

It was with a great deal of excitement that we arrived at the Ha Long Cruise Port to board our ship. After fortifying ourselves with hot cups of coffee in the lounge, we were taken by an electric golf cart to the boarding jetty. It was an awesome sight as huge liners stood shoulder to shoulder waiting for their turn to sail into the sea. We walked past the ships as our ship was anchored right at the end.

Aboard Ambassador Luxury Cruise

We boarded the luxury Ambassador Cruise which is in essence a floating luxury hotel of sorts. We were given our own luxury room to relax in. But of course, there was so much to see and experience, that there was hardly any time to relax. After a quick snack and coffee, we set about exploring the ship.

Vietnam Itinerary – Sung Sot Caves Ha Long Bay

Sung Sot Caves Ha Long Bay

You can choose to lounge on the upper deck or in the huge restaurant or relax in the jacuzzi. If you are craving privacy you can relax on the balcony of your room and watch the limestone rocks of Ha Long Bay pass by. But if you are the adventurous sort and crave activity, you can get off the ship and a host of activities await you.

One such activity on the Ha Long Bay cruise is a visit to the Sung Sot Caves which literally means, ” Cave of Surprises,” or, “Surprising Cave,” in the Vietnamese language. Discovered by the French in the year 1902. The Sun Sot Caves consist of a series of caverns. We hopped onto a smaller boat that took us to Bo Hon Island. Here we had to climb around 250 odd steps and also descend around the same number to access the many caverns that make up the Sung Sot Cave.

Inside, in semi-darkness, we witnessed the incredible works of the sculptor, Mother Nature. Water had sculpted strange and lifelike figures from the Limestone Karst, creating a surreal landscape. In Ha Long Bay, there are many such caves, however, the Sung Sot Cave is the main one and is an important destination for tourists to Ha Long Bay.

Vietnam Itinerary – Titop Island Ha Long Bay

Titop Island Ha Long Bay

After we visited the Sung Sot Caves, we took the boat to Ti Top Island . A small island with a limestone hill flanked by a small sandy beach. The beach was named after the Russian Cosmonaut Gherman Titov by Vietnam’s legendary leader and President Ho Chi Minh, after his visit here in 1962. The beach has a beautiful stretch of crescent-shaped white sand that has been bleached by the surf. It is an idyllic location to just relax on the beach or go for a swim. If you are in for some more rigorous pursuit, you can climb to the top of the hill for a stunning view of Ha Long Bay.

Vietnam Itinerary – Lunch On Board Ambassador Cruise

Lunch On Board Ambassador Cruise

We returned to the ship after spending some lovely moments on the Ti Top island. A sumptuous buffet spread awaited us at the Ambassador Cruise Liner. It was a massive spread consisting of Vietnamese, Continental, and Pan Asian cuisine. We had a fantastic lunch and retired to our room for some moments of relaxation.

Vietnam Itinerary – Luon Cave Ha Long Bay

Luon Cave Ha Long Bay

After a brief rest on board the luxury liner of Ambassador Cruises, we boarded a smaller boat for our next adventure in Halong Bay. Luon Cave is also part of the Bo Hon Island . It lies at the foot of a massive mountain. The Luon Cave is an arch-shaped entrance carved into the limestone that leads to an enchanting lagoon.

The lagoon itself is enclosed on all sides by limestone rocks covered with greenery and exotic plants, while when you look upwards, you can see white clouds framed against the blue skies. This is also reflected in the clear and tranquil waters of the lagoon. You can visit the Luon Cave either by yourself in a Kayak, or take a bamboo boat, and relax and take pictures of the panoramic scenes that unfold around you.

After an ethereal experience at the Luon Caves, we returned to the Cruise in time to spend some magical moments watching the sun go down on the western horizon, as we slowly set sail to the Ha Long Bay International Cruise Port.

Vietnam Itinerary – Dinner In Hanoi

Tadka Indian Restaurant Hanoi

We drove back to Hanoi taking with us beautiful memories of our luxury cruise in Ha Long Bay. We reached Hanoi and proceeded straight to a new Indian restaurant named, ‘ Tadka ,” which was within walking distance from our Hotel. We had another fine Indian vegetarian dinner and decided to take a walk before retiring for the night. We found out that the famous Hanoi Train Street was nearby, and so we went in search of it.

Vietnam Itinerary – Train Street Hanoi

Train Street Hanoi

We had seen many images and videos of the intriguing Train Street of Hanoi and wanted to see it with our own eyes as we were in Hanoi. After a few wrong turns, we finally reached the Train Street. We were a bit disappointed as we saw a train go by when we were still at a distance from the place.

However, we thought we could take pictures and videos of the place, train or no train. The place has been renovated and has been opened to the public in 2023. The atmosphere was very vibrant with small eateries and other shops lining both sides of the railway track.

We were busy clicking pictures when the ringing of a bell and the shouts of the shopkeepers alerted us about the approach of a train. Luck was on our side, and we were thrilled as a train hurtled past, we could feel the wind created by the wake of the train on our face, as it rolled past within a whisker of us. If you are visiting Hanoi, do visit the Hanoi Train Street, unabashedly, do not worry if it has been labelled touristy or not. It is an experience not to be missed.

Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days From India – Day Three In Hanoi

Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days From India

This was our last day in Hanoi, and we had half a day for sightseeing before boarding an afternoon flight to our next destination in Vietnam. After a quick breakfast in the hotel, we checked out, lock stock and barrel, and boarded our bus which would take us to the village of Bat Trang, some 16 kilometres from Hanoi,

Vietnam Itinerary – Bat Trang Ceramic Village

Bat Trang Ceramic Village

The Bat Trang Village by no stretch of imagination looked like a village. It was a small town with streets lined on both sides by shops selling ceramic ware. Inside the shops, it was a riot of colours, as huge vases, cups, saucers, jars, showpieces, and other ceramic ware, with vibrant colours and designs, grabbed your attention. We also watched the different processes involved in the making of ceramic products at one of the workshops.

Bat Trang Ceramic Village

Bat Trang and pottery or ceramic ware have a history that goes back many centuries. Being close to the Red River, ensured the easy availability of raw materials, and this fueled the growth of the ceramic industry in the village. It was also on a major trade route and this meant the finished products traveled to countries like China and Japan. Today, Bat Trang is a thriving centre of ceramics connected to its roots, but in tune with the times.

Vietnam Itinerary – Lunch In Hanoi

Namaste Hanoi Indian Restaurant

After visiting Bat Trang village it was time to head back to Hanoi, for an Indian vegetarian lunch at one of the best Indian restaurants in Hanoi, Namaste Hanoi . The lunch included some innovative Indian dishes, that left us asking for more. From the restaurant, we drove straight to the airport to catch our Vietnam Airlines flight to our next destination.

Vietnam Itinerary – Departure From Hanoi and Arrival in Nha Trang

Cam Ranh International Airport

It was evening by the time we arrived at the Cam Ranh International Airport in Nha Trang . The distance from Hanoi to Nha Trang is about 1300 kilometres and the flight took about 2 hours.

Vietnam Itinerary – Check In At Potique Hotel Nha Trang

Potique Hotel Nha Trang

The Cam Ranh International Airport of Nha Trang is about 36 kilometres from the city centre. The road runs parallel to the sea and is lined with many luxury resorts. We soon reached our hotel, the Potique Hotel , a 5-star property within a 2-minute walk from the beach. The hotel incorporates elements of Indo-Chinese architectural design and is an elegant place to stay and wake up in.

Vietnam Itinerary – Dinner In Nha Trang

Dinner In Nha Trang

After checking in at the Potique Hotel, we drove to the Ana Marina Yacht Club for dinner. A beautiful place on the edge of the sea. We had a lavish dinner consisting of Vietnamese and Indian cuisine. The restaurant also had live dance and music. After a leisurely dinner, it was time to head back to our hotel for some rest before embarking on the exploration of Nha Trang, the next morning.

Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days – Day Four In Nha Trang

Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days

Nha Trang is a lovely seaside city located in Central Vietnam. It has lovely sandy beaches, resorts, clubs, and adventure activities, and has emerged as a popular holiday getaway for travellers from the world over as well as with Vietnamese travellers.

Itinerary Vietnam – Morning Walk To Nha Trang Beach

Morning Walk To Nha Trang Beach

Early morning saw us taking a short walk from the Potique Hotel to the beach. It had rained in the night and the roads had a watery sheen. We were hoping to catch the sunrise, however, the weather played spoilsport. But we loved the morning vibes, watching the locals go about their morning routine. Some played football by the beach, while some jogged along the edge of the sea. A group of ladies were busy in their Zumba dance routine in a small garden by the beach.

Dominating the Nha Trang skyline with its distinctive architecture is the Trầm Hương Tower . It is a masterpiece of contemporary architecture and is a distinctive landmark of Nha Trang. The place is a venue that hosts cultural and art performances. It was a wonderful experience seeing this landmark up close in the morning, The 2/4 square is located near the Trầm Hương Tower and is a large open space suitable for community activities. We saw people engaged in ball games, or just strolling around in the morning.

Itinerary Vietnam – Ponagar Temple Nha Trang

Ponagar Temple Nha Trang

After breakfast at the hotel, we proceeded to one of the prominent attractions of Nha Trang, the Ponagar Temple . The temple is a Cham temple with its origins dating way back to the 8th century. The presiding deity of the temple is a Goddess who is worshipped as Yan Po Nagar by the Vietnamese people.

We spoke to the Cham priest of the temple and were astonished to note that the Goddess is Uma or Parvati, the consort of Shiva. There are also temples in the complex that are dedicated to Shiva, Skanda, and Ganesha. We also met a few Cham people who had come to visit the temple. A small percentage of the Cham people follow Hinduism, while others follow Islam and Buddhism.

Though it is not known who built the original temple, later inscriptions associate the temple with Cham Kings like Satyavarman, Harivarman I, and Jayavarman II. The temple was originally dedicated to Uma or Parvati.

Best Itinerary For Vietnam – Dam Market Nha Trang

Dam Market Nha Trang

The Dam Market also known as Cho Dam Market is the main local market of Nha Trang. One can buy goods here that range from readymade garments, footwear, groceries, fresh fruits and vegetables, and much more. If you are inclined, you can shop here for souvenirs or local handicrafts.

Vietnam Trip Itinerary – Lunch In Nha Trang

Lunch In Nha Trang

After a brief rest at our hotel, we made our way to the Sailing Club for lunch. We loved the location of the place which was right beside the beach. It was a nice experience having our lunch serenaded by the musical symphony of the surf, sand, and sea,

Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days From India – Vinpearl Land Nha Trang

Vinpearl Land Nha Trang

After lunch, it was time to take a thrilling speed boat ride to the island of Hon Tre , where Vinpearl Land is located. Here is the VinWonders a theme park, similar to Disneyland. The theme park offers many exciting activities and also has a gorgeous beach. It makes for a wonderful family getaway, excellent for a day trip from Nha Trang. We spent half a day at this park and had a whale of a time before returning to Nha Trang City.

Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days – Dinner In Nha Trang

Dinner In Nha Trang

Our saga of eating in Indian restaurants continued in Nha Trang with dinner at the Ganesh Restaurant , one of the popular restaurants in the city for vegetarian and Indian food. The food exceeded expectations as was the cast in all the Indian restaurants where we had eaten during our Vietnam trip.

Vietnam Itinerary – Visiting Night Market of Nha Trang

Visiting Night Market of Nha Trang

Vietnam is a country known for its vibrant night markets, and it is a unique experience to visit them. Nha Trang too has its share of night markets. We had a night market, right next to our hotel, and after dinner, we took a stroll through the night market. Shops sold souvenirs, local handicrafts, clothes, and eatables. It was a relatively small market, and we soon left the market for a night visit to the beach and the 2/4 square. The Trầm Hương Tower, the many high-rise buildings, the beach, and the sea looked different under lights at night.

Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days – Day Five In Ho Chi Minh City

Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days

After thoroughly enjoying our stay in the enchanting city of Nha Trang and a good night’s sleep, we woke up ready for our next adventure in Vietnam. After breakfast at the Potique Hotel where we were staying, we drove to the Cam Ranh International Airport of Nha Trang to catch our Vietnam Airlines flight to Ho Chi Minh City. We arrived at Ho Chi Minh City during the early noon hours. As there were quite a few places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City, that day, we straight away had lunch and proceeded for city sightseeing.

Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days – Lunch In Ho Chi Minh City

Mama Masala Ho Chi Minh Vietnam

There was a lot on the agenda for Day 7 of our Vietnam itinerary, so we had an early lunch at Mama Masala , a restaurant that served vegetarian Indian food in Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon. After lunch, we were ready to explore the sights of Ho Chi Minh City.

Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days From India – Reunification Palace Ho Chi Minh City

Reunification Palace Ho Chi Minh City

The first place on our Ho Chi Minh City itinerary was the Reunification Palace , also known as Independence Palace . The palace was constructed in 1962 at the site of the old palace that had been destroyed by bombing. The Reunification Palace consists of the meeting rooms, guest rooms, and living quarters, of the former Presidents of the Republic of Vietnam. One of the important sights not to be missed in the Independence Palace is an F-5E aircraft that stands forlornly on a terrace. A fascinating page of history connects the aircraft to the Independence Palace and the history of Vietnam itself.

In 1975 a pilot of the South Vietnamese Air Force and an undetected spy flew an F-5E aircraft and bombed the palace, but could not cause any damage. A few days later, on 30th April 1975, a tank of the North Vietnamese Army crashed into the palace, signifying the end of the Vietnam War.

Vietnam Itinerary  – Central Post Office In Ho Chi Minh City

Central Post Office In Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a modern bustling city, but it is full of heritage landmarks. One of the important heritage buildings in Ho Chi  Minh City is the Central Post Office . Built in 1891 by the French with material procured from France, the post office is still functional and is a popular tourist destination.

The central post office of Ho Chi Minh City is a magnificent structure that blends European and Asian architectural elements. It was buzzing with activity, with people at the numerous counters buying stamps and other postal stationery.

Vietnam Itinerary  – Notre Dame Cathedral In Ho Chi Minh City

Notre Dame Cathedral In Ho Chi Minh City

Standing right opposite the imposing facade of the Central Post Office is the Notre Dame Cathedral , another legacy of the French. The cathedral is modelled on the lines of the original Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. The cathedral was built between 1863 and 1880.

Initially, the cathedral was known as the Church of Saigon . It was only after 1959, that it came to be known as Notre Dame Cathedral. Unfortunately, we were not able to appreciate the full magnificence of the heritage structure as it was under renovation. The cathedral has been under renovation for the past six years, and the renovation is expected to be completed only in the year 2027.

Vietnam Itinerary  – War Remnants Museum In Ho Chi Minh City

War Remnants Museum In Ho Chi Minh City

The Vietnam War which lasted for 20 long years left a trail of devastation and human suffering that the world will never forget. The war which was a proxy war between the Soviet Union, China, and other communist states on the one side and the United States and its allies on the other, continues to remain a blot on human history.

The War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City is a grave reminder of the war and the depths to which human depravity can plummet. As we walked through the galleries of the museum, images of the futile but devastating Vietnam War came alive in all their horrific forms. If you are at Ho Chi Minh City, a visit to the War Remnants Museum is a must to know about the traumatic past of Vietnam, and to appreciate its resilience and growth in contemporary times.

Vietnam 7-Day Itinerary – Checkin At Paragon Saigon Hotel

Paragon Hotel Ho Chi Minh City

It was early evening when we finally checked into our hotel in Saigon. Our hotel was the Paragon Hotel in a prime location of the city. The hotel was within easy walking distance of the Opera House and the City Hall and located in a nice, upmarket neighbourhood.

Vietnam Itinerary  – Vietnamese Dinner In Ho Chi Minh City

Checkin At Paragon Saigon Hotel

After checking in at our hotel and some rest, it was time for dinner. The place where we had dinner was a restaurant named Home Saigon. The place is located in what was once the home of a former President and has a completely traditional Vietnamese ambience. The cuisine too was Vietnamese, and we enjoyed the Vietnamese vegetarian fare that they served.

Vietnam Itinerary  –  Ho Chi Minh City By Night

Ho Chi Minh City By Night

Ho Chi Minh City is known for its vibrant nightlife. We decided to take a small walk after dinner and sauntered to the Opera House. Saigon by night was a lovely spectacle, and we thoroughly enjoyed our walk. The famous Bu Vien Street, famous with backpackers and also referred to as Walking Street is also near the Opera House, however, we gave it a miss.

Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days – Day Six In Ho Chi Minh City

Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days

Day six of our Vietnam trip was also spent in Ho Chi Minh City. We began the day with an early morning city walk to get an immersive experience of Ho Chi Minh City and experience the morning vibes.

Vietnam Itinerary  –  Morning Walk In Ho Chi Minh City | Nguyen Hue Boulevard

Nguyen Hue Boulevard

Our morning walk took us to the Opera House , a landmark of Ho Chi Minh City, the Ho Chi Minh City Hall in front of which stands a statue of Ho Chi Minh, and the Nguyen Hue Boulevard .

The Nguyen Hue Boulevard has the City Hall at one end and the Saigon Riverfront at the other. It is a beautiful pedestrian street that is filled with morning joggers. Pigeons pranced around in the centre as a little girl with her mother ran after them. A group of ladies jived to music from the player that they had brought with them.

The middle lane of the boulevard is a pedestrian zone, while the lanes on the sides are open to traffic. The boulevard is lined with restaurants, shops, and offices. We saw the Ho Chi Minh City Tourist Office also at one corner of the Boulevard.

Vietnam Itinerary  –  Thien Hau Temple Ho Chi Minh City

Thien Hau Temple Ho Chi Minh City

Breakfast was done, it was time to head out for some more experiences in Ho Chi Minh City. We first visited the Thien Hau Pagoda , a Taoist temple dedicated to the Sea Goddess Mazu . It is believed that Mazu was originally a girl named Lin Moniang, who lived in the 10th century. She possessed miraculous powers with which she saved her family during a terrible typhoon. The temple was originally built in the year 1760 by the Chinese community originating from Guangzhou.

The interior of the temple is covered with murals and has large incense burners in front of the sanctum. Three bronze statues of the deity are placed inside the sanctum. The temple is filled with a peaceful aura and makes for a blissful experience.

Vietnam Itinerary  –  Exploring The Mekong Delta

Mekong Delta

We then drove to the harbour at a place called My Tho on the Mekong Delta , some 80 kilometres from Hanoi. We would be exploring the islands of the Mekong Delta by boat and the traditional hand-rowed boats called Sampans. The Mekong is one of the longest rivers in the world and is called Cuu Long in Vietnamese. This translates as a river with 9 dragons.

Vietnam Itinerary – Unicorn Island | Thoi Son Island In The Mekong Delta

Thoi Son Island In The Mekong Delta

The Unicorn Island is also known as Thoi Son Island and is located beside the Thoi Son Canal along the Mekong River. We took a boat from the My Tho city Boat station to the Unicorn Island. On the island, we visited a Honey Bee farm and tasted fresh honey as well as honey tea. We then took a round of the island on a golf cart, before stopping at a fruit orchard where we tasted fresh tropical fruits including Dragon Fruit, Longan, Guava, and watermelon. We also listened to some Vietnamese songs from some talented young musicians here.

Vietnam Itinerary – Cruising On The Thoi Son Canal

Cruising On The Thoi Son Canal

After this, we gingerly stepped into a narrow canoe called Sampan . This hand-rowed boat took us along the Thoi Son Canal to our next stop on the Mekong Delta. The ride through the canal was a unique experience as the boatwoman deftly manoeuvred the boat in the narrow canal, avoiding other boats that came from the opposite direction.

We soon alighted at a place where coconut candy was being made. We watched the making of coconut candy right from the dehusking of the coconut to the final product. We also tasted the candy and bought some to take home with us.

We boarded a bigger boat and cruised to Phoenix Island where lunch awaited us.

Vietnam Itinerary – Phoenix Island In The Mekong Delta

Phoenix Island In The Mekong Delta

We had lunch in a restaurant that stood on the edge of the Mekong River on Phoenix Island . The restaurant was aptly named Mekong Taste. The menu was essentially Vietnamese seafood, however, we managed to fill ourselves with some vegetarian alternatives from the local cuisine, fruits, and coconut water. After a quiet lunch, watching the boats cruising along the Mekong River, it was time for us to bid farewell to the island and the Mekong Delta and drive towards Ho Ch Minh City.

Vietnam Itinerary – Visiting Cho Lon Market Ho Chi Minh City

Cho Lon Market Ho Chi Minh City

On the way back from the Mekong Delta, we stopped for some time to visit one of the largest local markets of Ho Chi Minh City, known as Cho Lan Market . The market sold a wide range of products including footwear, apparel, handicrafts, souvenirs, food items including dry fruits, and much more. The market is a good place for shopping as the prices are reasonable and you can also bargain.

Vietnam Itinerary – Dinner In Ho Chi Minh City

Tandoor Restaurant Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam

After a hectic day at the Mekong Delta, we had a quiet dinner at an Indian restaurant called Tandoor in Ho Chi Minh City. It was our last night in Ho Chi  Minh City and also Vietnam as we would be flying out the next day. We were feeling a little sad already in anticipation of the impending farewell to the beautiful country of Vietnam.

Vietnam Itinerary 6 Days | Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days – Day Seven In Ho Chi Minh City

Tan Son Nhat International Airport, Ho Chi Minh City

We woke up on our event day in Vietnam with the realization that our Vietnam tour was all but over. It had been a great experience, and we promised ourselves that we would be back soon to explore more of this gem of Asia. After a leisurely breakfast at our hotel, it was time to drive to the Tan Son Nhat International Airport of Ho Chi Minh City to catch our flight to Hanoi, and from there a connecting flight to Delhi.

If you want a visual experience of our 7-Day Vietnam itinerary click to check out our YouTube video :

Vietnam 7 Day Itinerary Youtube video

Useful Information For First-Time Travellers To Vietnam

Useful Information For First-Time Travellers To Vietnam

If you are planning a visit to Vietnam, here is some useful information that is bound to stand you in good stead.

Vietnam Map

Vietnam Map

Getting To Vietnam

Vietnam Airlines Review

Vietnam is well-connected with international destinations. The major international airports are the Noi Bai International Airport, Hanoi, and the Tan Son Nhat International Airport of Ho Chi Minh City.

If you are flying from India, you have direct flights to Hanoi from the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai. Vietnam Airlines is a premium airline that operates flights to and from India. You also have the option of another budget airline, Vietjet to get to Vietnam.

You can book your flight to Vietnam right here through Cleartrip  or Makemytrip  or  CheapAir  or  Priceline .

Vietnam Visa Information

Vietnam Visa Information

Vietnam encourages tourism and this is reflected in its Visa rules and policies. We had availed of the Vietnam E Visa For Indians facility. The procedure for Evisa for Vietnam for tourists from India is pretty simple. You need to fill up an online form that requires you to upload your photo and copy of your passport after which you need to make online payment of the Visa fees which are currently 25 USD for single entry evisa and 50 USD for multiple entry evisa. Once you have completed the online application, it usually takes 3-5 working days to get the visa. You can check the status of your visa application and download the visa at this site .

Getting Around Vietnam

Getting Around Vietnam

If you are visiting multiple destinations in Vietnam, then flying is the best option. The domestic airline network of Vietnam is good and connects all the country’s important cities. If you are looking for a cheaper option to travel within Vietnam, trains are a good choice. Most of the tourist destinations within the country are connected by the Government-run railway network.

Buses are a good option if you are a budget traveller and also have time on your hands. For example, a bus ride from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City could take around 35-38 hours, while you can fly from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City in a little over 2 hours.

Getting around within the cities of Vietnam like Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City is easy with the availability of cab services. Grab is the main cab-hailing app that you can use in the cities of Vietnam for getting around. Other options include public buses and cycle rickshaws.

Where To Stay In Vietnam

Where To Stay In Vietnam

The cities and towns of Vietnam offer a range of accommodation options. Whether you are looking for luxury hotels, budget hotels, or hostels and homestays, you are sure to find something that meets your requirements in Vietnam. The prices are also quite reasonable as compared to many other countries.

We visited the cities of Hanoi, Nha Trang, and Ho Chi Minh City, and here are the places where we stayed during our trip. These are 4-5 star luxury hotels, and we found them very good, and would not hesitate one bit in recommending them.

Hotel In Hanoi

The Silk Path Hotel is centrally located in the Old Quarter area of Hanoi.

Hotel In Nha Trang

The Potique Hotel is located centrally in the downtown area and at a 2-minute walk from the beach.

Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

The Paragon Saigon Hotel is a 5-star hotel located in the central business district of the city.

You can book any of these hotels or any other hotel in Vietnam right here through any of the below options, at the location of your choice here – TripAdvisor  or Cleartrip or  makemytrip or  goibibo or  Booking.com or  HotelsCombined or  Agoda and save a lot by getting the best deals on booking your stay.

Where And What To Eat In Vietnam | Vietnam For Vegetarians

Where And What To Eat In Vietnam

Vietnam is a paradise for gourmets, and in the words of the famous international chef and author, Anthony Bourdain, “Vietnam. It grabs you and doesn’t let you go. Once you love it, you love it forever.”

Being vegetarians, our adventure with food in Vietnam was limited. However, it would be pertinent to mention here that there is a good range of Vietnamese food which is vegetarian and is great in taste and flavour. In most of the bigger cities, there is always a vegetarian option available. We ate at Indian restaurants most of the time during our 7-day Vietnam trip. Here are the restaurants that we ate in, and we hope this helps you in planning your own food adventure in Vietnam.

Hanoi Restaurants

Maazi Restaurant ADDRESS ngõ 40 Xuân Diệu Tứ Liên, Tây Hồ Hà Nội 10000 Vietnam

Tandoor Hanoi Address: 24 Hang Be Street, Hoan Kiem

Tadka Indian Restaurant Address: 26 Phùng Hưng, Phường Hàng Bông, Quận Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội Hà Nội, Hanoi City, 100000, Vietnam.

Namaste Hanoi Address: 46 P. Thợ Nhuộm, Trần Hưng Đạo, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam.

Nha Trang Restaurants

Ana Marina Yacht Club Address: Đường Nguyễn Cơ Thạch, Đường Đệ, Nha Trang, Khánh Hòa, Vietnam.

Sailing Club Address: 72 74 Trần Phú, Lộc Thọ, Nha Trang, Khánh Hòa 570000, Vietnam.

Ganesh Restaurant Address: 186 Hùng Vương, Lộc Thọ, Nha Trang, Khánh Hòa 650000, Vietnam.

Ho Chi Minh City Restaurants

Mama Masala Address: 83 Đ. Nguyễn Cư Trinh, Street, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam.

Home Saigon Address: 185/28 Đ. Phạm Ngũ Lão, Phường Phạm Ngũ Lão, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam.

Tandoor Address: 185/28 Đ. Phạm Ngũ Lão, Phường Phạm Ngũ Lão, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam.

Main Cities To Visit In Vietnam on Your Vietnam Itinerary

Main Cities To Visit In Vietnam on Your Vietnam Itinerary

During our 7-day Vietnam Itinerary, we covered the cities of Hanoi, Nha Trang, and Ho Chi Minh City. However, there is so much more to see in Vietnam. The main places that are important tourist destinations in Vietnam are:

  • Ho Chi Minh City

Best Time To Visit Vietnam

Best Time To Visit Vietnam

The best time to visit Vietnam is between April to December. This is the period when most of Vietnam has a dry season.

Vietnam Weather

Vietnam Weather

North Vietnam, where Hanoi is located has two main seasons, namely winter and summer. November to April is winter during which the temperature hovers between 17 to 22 degrees Celsius. Summer is usually from May to October when temperatures range between 30 to 38 degrees Celsius.

Central Vietnam where Nha Trang is located experiences hot weather from January to August and sees rain during the winter months.

South Vietnam where Ho Chi Minh City is located generally has a constant temperature throughout the year. There are only two seasons here, one with rain, and the other without rain. The region receives rainfall from May to November.

Vietnam Currency

Vietnam Currency

Vietnam Dong (VND) is the official currency of Vietnam. One Indian Rupee is equal to around 290 VND, and 1 USD is equal to around 24,000 VND. Major credit cards are accepted at the bigger outlets. However, if you are shopping at local markets, you need to have cash in Vietnam Dong. Some shops also accept US dollars.

Vietnam Phone And Internet Network

Vietnam Phone And Internet Network

Vietnam has a good communications network. Free Wifi is available at most public places including restaurants, and markets. You can also buy a local SIM to stay connected. We found the WiFi network very reliable in the cities, and we also had good WiFi in the bus in which we went around in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Vietnamese Language – Common Phrases To Know

Vietnamese Language

It is always good to know some common phrases in the local language of the region that you are visiting. This helps you connect better with the locals. Here are some common phrases that will help you while visiting Vietnam.

  • Xin chào – Sin chaw-oh – Hello/Hi, a common greeting with which you greet people
  • Cảm ơn – Cam urn – Thank you
  • Xin lỗi – Sin lo-oy – Sorry
  • Tạm biệt – Dhamn biet – Goodbye
  • Bao nhiêu – Ba-oh neo – How much?

Vietnam Travel FAQ

Vietnam Travel

Is a visa needed for travel to Vietnam from India? Currently visa is required for Indians to travel to Vietnam, however, the process is simple and online. In future, Vietnam may give visa-free entry to Indians.

What is the currency used in Vietnam? The currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND).

Is Vietnam safe for tourists? Vietnam is as safe as any other country, of course, one needs to take the same kind of precautions that one would take while travelling in any country.

Is Vietnam an inexpensive country for Indians? Vietnam is definitely one of the cheaper countries to travel to from India.

How many days are required for Vietnam? Vietnam is a big country, so the number of days would depend on what you want to see in Vietnam. However, a typical Vietnam itinerary should be planned for about 7 to 8 days.

Which are the best places to visit in Vietnam? Every place in Vietnam has its own unique charm. The places to visit are Hanoi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, and Nin Binh, among others.

We hope you found our Vietnam Itinerary – Vietnam Travel Guide informative and that it helps you chart your own Vietnam trip. We have tried to share as much information as possible so that this post acts as a complete Vietnam travel guide. However, if you need any more information, or need any clarification, do connect with us. For more such posts, subscribe to our blog and newsletter. Connect with us on our social media channels to stay updated with our travel stories.

If you have not subscribed to our blog yet, we highly recommend you do so. Additionally, consider signing up for our monthly newsletter, “ Postcard From India “. Connect with us on various social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, X, Linkedin, and YouTube.

The heart of every adventure is found in the power of connections. Stay engaged by interacting with us on our vibrant social media channels. Join a community of like-minded enthusiasts, share your perspectives, and become a part of our flourishing WhatsApp community , driven by a passion for exploration and a profound respect for culture.

Our visit to Vietnam in Southeast Asia was organized by Vietnam Airlines to promote tourism in Vietnam. The views and opinions expressed in this blog post are our own. #Vietnam #VietnamItinerary #VietnamGuide #VietnamTrip

Are you planning a last-minute Holiday? Below are some useful resources to help you book flights, hotels, and tours! And also clothes, luggage and accessories for your trip!

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Travel Insurance – Click to book Travel Insurance that covers a range of travel insurance and safety services including medical emergencies, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more

Visas and Travel Documents Application – Click here for Online Travel Visa Check

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5 thoughts on “Best 7 Days Vietnam Itinerary From India – Vietnam Guide”

We have Vietnam in our wishlist since long and your itinerary have solved so much for us. Thanks for sharing everything in great detail.

I challenge, that none of the bloggers/travelers in the world can present an Itenary like this. You took us on a virtual trip to Vietnam through your blog. Cambodia and Vietnam are my long-time bucket list places to visit. I am bookmarking this for my future reference. Hope you had a good time visiting Vietnam.

I love the details and descriptions of each day Thank you for sharing so many details about Vietnam and budget It will be easy to plan a trip after reading this.

We don’t need to go to Vietnam. As we read this, we feel as if we are there and experiencing it all. Good job

Wooha! Amazing 😮 such a detailed article. It was like I am roaming in Vietnam. The pictures added are beautiful. It relishes my eyes. Loved this piece of writing, in fact, a guide. Would love to visit and share the experience as you do 😊

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10 Harsh But True Things About Vietnam That You WISH You Had Known

Vietnam is a popular destination for travelers thanks to its beauty and attractiveness.

Though it’s known as a peaceful country, there are bad things about Vietnam that can interfere with your trip. Some foreigners do not want to return to Vietnam because they have had a bad experience.

The ten bad things about Vietnam that I listed below may sound cynical, but don’t let them stop you from visiting or returning to my country. Read this article to avoid bad situations and plan your trip to Vietnam !

Ky Co beach Quy Nhon Vietnam

It happens especially with tour companies or with famous restaurants and stores.

In Ha Noi, Vietnam, you can find more than 100 similar to The Sinh Tourist, but actually, only one booth is real.

Those fake tour companies try to gather as many tourists as possible, then send them on another tour to get some commission.

In these fake tours, you cannot experience the best service that the real one brings. Interestingly, those fake tours are usually cheaper than the real ones.

Tips to avoid fake travel tours in Vietnam

  • Make sure that you’re using the right tour company’s website to look for the tours. Several fake websites claim them real, so you need to check them carefully.
  • Visit the correct address of the tour company. There can be more than ten shops with the same name in one street, so you should make sure that you’re going to the correct one.
  • Book tours with trusted sites such as Klook  

Can Gio Vietnam Mangrove Forest boat tour Vietnam

b) Short return of money

Some people are shocked when some places in Vietnam return candies instead of cash. They feel cheated and scammed.

It’s very common recently, even with locals. If the amount is too large, you should ask again if there’s a mistake.

2. Airport – stolen checked luggage

So, you just arrived in this lovely country, and you found out that your checked baggage was opened and something was taken?

You will feel mad at that time. I know. Don’t be so surprised because it’s quite common in Vietnamese airports.

I, as a local, still suffered from this similar situation. After the trip from Japan to Vietnam, one of my bags was opened. Fortunately, nothing valuable was stolen because I just put clothes and candies in my checked luggage.

This situation was once prevalent, and I could read about it everywhere in the newspaper. The airport officers are trying to prevent it, but still, we should take care of ourselves first, right?

Tips to avoid stolen luggage in Vietnam

Having your things taken in checked baggage will ruin your trip! So, what is my advice for you?

Never, ever put any valuable things in your checked bags. You may be confident that you have a lock, but they can still somehow open it (as in my case), and your things will be gone.

You can complain about it with the airport service, but they will pay back a meager rate per kilogram.

Per kilogram? Can you imagine that? I bet that everything in your luggage is much more valuable than that, so the compensation is nothing!

You can try wrapping your luggage to protect it, but if there’s something wrong with your luggage, you will need to open it again and again, and that takes time.

So, just put whatever valuables into your handbag, and you will have a great trip to Vietnam.

3. Crossing streets in Vietnam

And yes, be careful when you cross the road!

I’m sure it’s an exciting experience for non-Vietnamese. There are not many road markers in Ho Chi Minh city, so crossing the road is quite scary.

China Town Saigon Vietnam

Tips for crossing streets in Vietnam

Don’t be afraid to face lots of motorcycles, buses, cars, etc., when you cross the street.

First, you should wait a bit, continue, wait and continue, and keep doing that while watching all the vehicles.

You need to keep your eyes on vehicles on both sides because some people violate the rules and go in a different direction.

Be confident, and you can do it!

You should buy travel insurance in advance before visiting Vietnam.

4. Traffic accidents

According to the Traffic police department, in 2016, there were more than 21 000 traffic accidents, and almost 9000 people died.

So, around 24.5 people die per day because of traffic accidents in Vietnam. This number doesn’t include injured people.

I do not want to scare you with those numbers, but I must admit that traffic accidents happen regularly in Vietnam.

I also had some traffic accidents every year when I was in Vietnam, and it took me at least one week to heal. Fortunately, they were not that bad, so I can still sit here and write some advice :)

Traffic accidents can happen anyway. You can get hit when you cross the street, ride a bike, or in a car, even in your house. I hope some of my tips can help you have safe travels!

Hai Van Pass Vietnam travel guide

Tips to be safe on the road in Vietnam!

  • Using public transportation such as buses : I know that public transportation in Vietnam can terrify foreigners, but I feel much safer when I’m on the bus. The bigger the vehicle is, the more reliable it brings. Think positively. The big-box protects you. So maybe accidents can happen with some motorbikes, you can still be safe.
  • Using a taxi : I also feel it’s safe when using a taxi. Now you can use a Grab car which is convenient and cheaper than the traditional one.
  • Walking : It may be dangerous. I know someone who was killed when walking on the street. However, in Vietnam, there are cases that people are killed when they are in their home, just because a truck hit and crashed into their home, so I still consider walking is a safe way :)

Buy Travel Insurance in advance when planning your trip to Vietnam!

5. Taxi scams

Almost the same with the overpayments, taxi scams are common in Vietnam, and they happen to everyone. The taxi driver will try to drive you around and around to charge more money.

Some foreigners will pay for it without knowing that they get scammed. In other cases, the taxi drivers fix their measurements, so the total cost is double or more than the actual price.

Tip to avoid Taxi scams in Vietnam

  • Check Google map/ or Maps.me to calculate the distance of your final destination. Then, you can multiply the length by the money per kilometer.
  • Ask the taxi driver how much you need to pay before starting the trip.
  • Choose taxi companies that have a good reputation, such as Mai Linh or Vinasun. You can also order Grab as well (Uber is unavailable in Vietnam). 

Robbery happens everywhere in Vietnam, and the most common cases are robbing your phones/ bags.

Imagine that you are riding your bike/ motorcycle or walking on the street with your phone/ bag, and in 1 second, it’s gone. You only see two guys on a motorbike going fast, and you don’t see their faces.

What you can do then is to say goodbye to your things :(

I once saw a foreigner who had her phone robbed.

She cried a lot, but nothing could be done in that case. Some foreigners had their bags robbed with all the necessary documents, so they had a hard time getting all the papers again.

It sounds scary, but you have ways to prevent this!

Tips to avoid being robbed in Vietnam

  • Phone : Don’t listen to your phone when you are on the street. If you need to listen to a phone call, you should choose a corner and listen to it. Be careful when using your phone on the street as well.
  • Bag : I suggest having your bag in front of you in crowded areas.  Be careful, and leave your necessary things in your accommodation if you don’t need to bring them outside.
  • Travel insurance : You should purchase travel insurance .

7. Pickpocket

Pickpocketing can happen anywhere, anytime. My father got pickpocketed twice when we went to a festival together. It happens a lot in crowded places.

Tips to avoid pickpocket in Vietnam

Take care of your things. I always put money in my front pocket, not in the back. Therefore, I can check it from time to time to make sure it is still there.

8. Hygiene food safety

Vietnamese food is fantastic! There are so many types of food for you to choose from, but food safety is a big problem in Vietnam.

Street food is delicious, but it is not clean and healthy most of the time. The sellers may not prepare them carefully, or the food may have some problems because of the climate.

I didn’t realize how unsafe it was until I returned to Vietnam for a vacation after living in Japan. I had a stomach ache and felt terrible after eating. How to avoid that?

Tips : Learn some basic Vietnamese before your trip.

Banh xeo Vietnamese street food

Tips to stay healthy in Vietnam

  • It’s quite hard to avoid this situation. Hygiene food safety has become one of the biggest concerns in Vietnam, and the Vietnamese government is trying to improve it.
  • I usually go to some favorite restaurants, so I know where to avoid them and where to go. However, as a foreigner, you can also read reviews about the restaurants. You can choose to eat in a restaurant which looks clean and has many visitors. Don’t eat in one where there’s no one inside.
  • Anyway, buy some medicine in case you have diarrhea or a problem with your stomach.

9. Bad service – bad manners

Many people complain about the lousy service in Vietnamese restaurants. It’s true. One part of the reason is that it’s crowded, but the employees cannot use those excuses to serve badly.

Also, not many Vietnamese can speak English, so it may be challenging to communicate.

Tips to get the best service in Vietnamese restaurants

You should learn body language or some basic Vietnamese to order food or service. The best way is to have Vietnamese friends, so they can show you the right places to eat!

I suggest you try Couchsurfing, or even if you walk around, maybe some Vietnamese will want to say hello and talk to you.

Here is the list of best Vietnamese street food you should try.

10. Overpayments

This situation is quite common for travelers.

You visit a different country, look different, and charge more than the locals.

I heard many cases that foreigners are overcharged, but to be honest, you’re not the only ones as Vietnamese can get the same situation.

I recently heard from my friend that her Japanese friends paid 200 000 VND for a Bánh xèo, a Vietnamese “sizzling cake,” and it’s an unacceptable price.

I feel sad that foreigners will have wrong opinions about Vietnam due to these overpayments.

Again, this situation is prevalent in Vietnam, and it happens to both foreigners and locals. So, take some tips below to avoid this.

Hoi An Vietnam restaurant

Tips to avoid overpayments in Vietnam

  • If you want to be ripped off, you can enter a restaurant with no price sign. Don’t do that, especially if you are a visitor. Even some restaurants have a menu, and they may charge you to sit. Sounds terrible, right?
  • You need to ask clearly about the price before you order anything. It’s the same with eating street food. Remember to ask the price before buying it. If you feel that you are paying higher than locals, leave that place and go to another location. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from.

Ha is an avid traveler and writer with a background in marketing & hospitality. She's lived in a few countries and traveled to more than 30. When she's not traveling or writing, Ha loves trying new recipes.

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67 Comments

Very good and straightforward article. Every country has its good and bad things. But it’s good to look at those bad things for improvement. Thank you for sharing frankly about our country of Vietnam.

We are in Vietnam at the moment and there are many good things about it such as the food, the parks, nature and some of the people. I was surprised however at the number of scams and opportunists in this country. We fell pray to a common scam – the coconut scam, which didn’t bother us, because we were aware of it and received a nice drink as a result- I had never had coconut water before. What did bother me were the bars engaging in dodgy behaviour, such as providing additional drinks that were not requested, then charging for them. It seems everyone who is nice to you has an agenda and one must always be on guard. I have found it to be a lot different from Penang where prices were always clear, people were not as friendly, but less likely to rip you off or to attempt to engage you in a scam. This may have to do with Malaysia having a stronger economy than Vietnam therefore the people are not as desperate. Many tourists can be quite irritating, when we were checking in to our hotel there were a group of older Europeans who took a long time to check in and complained about the heat in their room and were unnecessarily rude, so in some ways I can understand why locals feel the urge to rip them off, however it does tarnish the experience for those of us who just want to have a nice time. I have no desire to come back here.

I think your assessment is pretty accurate. I was just in Vietnam and wouldn’t want to go back. i was scammed by a female that was being nice to me and wanted to give me a tour, she said 80,000 for an hour. But after being super friendly and flirty and wanting to show me all these places she charged me 200,000 per hour. I didn’t argue because it wasn’t really a lot of money, but it still wasn’t right. While in Vietnam its very important to ask prices before hand, and check bills to make sure you are billed correctly. Even at a highly rated massage and spa location i was charged for a more expensive massage than i had actually gotten. You are constantly bothered by people wanting to give you rides for money. It doesn’t give a tourist a happy experience and i wouldn’t want to go back

There are many honest people there. However, if they want to cheat, they have a super skill of cheating for money from a little kid to an elderly person, no matter how careful you are you will get cheated if you stay there long enough. Local people cheat each other every day unless they know each other, and it is normal between them. It is part of any business from selling lollies to selling a mansion.

It is interesting that they can be very nice to you if they like you. They offer help, meals, gifts, etc., and give you more than you expect, and you would find in other countries people rarely offer help more than they could afford. It is a absolutely crazy culture, and I do not even understand it myself. It is somehow just part of Vietnamese society.

I have no tip on how to avoid scams or cheating because I got cheated very often even though I am a local. My advice is you just think it is 15% or 20% tips like in the U.S. or U.K. If it is over that then do not pay. They will reduce the figures. It is business to them so they have to realise you know what they are doing. You just enjoy your stay in Viet Nam when you go there rather than let those things bother you since it is getting more expensive every year thanks to the improvement of its economy.

This reminds me about the negative life about Ghana my homeland. It seems to be the preserve of developing nations all across The West has more resources and the disparity can be seen in their behaviours.

When I’m ready for a vacation I always end up in Saigon. For the last 20 years my wife(Vietnamese)and I visit different cities in vn. We usually travel with family but sometimes head out on our own. I think bus tours are ok for first time visitors and reasonably safe. You spend too much time on the bus and to little time at the destination. They do a good job caring for you and feeding you safe food. Hopefully you can understand the tour guide. My best two tours were Angkor Wot and Ha Long bay. Most other tours were boring. I love Nha Trang,Vung Tau, Mui ne, and a taste of the countryside Sa dec. my biggest problem is the heat!! Only one time I had someone try to snatch my wife’s purse in2000. Thinking about living here. A happy American.

The returning of candy is because they may be out of 1000 or 2000vnd notes. Not a scam or cheat

I‘m surprised that most seem to experience those things. I’m currently in da nang for 3 months. I walk and drive everywhere. Even at the night in some dark Vietnamese neighborhood I never felt insecure or experienced anything really bad. One time a taxi driver wanted to charge me around the double for a short trip, which was resolved quickly. I said there is no way I pay that and that he knows that’s wrong. He accepted my normal price immediately.

Maybe I was just lucky so far, but I never met more friendly people than in Vietnam. I felt secure all the time. And when there was a short time of, hmm why does this guy/girl help me, it was every time just that. They all even refused to get a tip or anything for their help. I, of course also try to be very respectful, friendly and I’m super interested in their lifestyle, and that’s what I’m getting back so far. Oh man, I love Vietnam xD

I have not been in Hanoi for long but in my experience so far Vietnamese people have been unwelcoming and even downright deceitful. Everyone is trying to rip you off, which is not unusual for Westerners in Southeast Asia but at least in Thailand they do it with a smile. Locals will quote prices higher than on their menus and others will tell you bold faced lies to try to get you to pay a higher price. I have actually been very disappointed as I have heard such good things from other travellers about how welcoming the Vietnamese people are to foreigners but that has not been my experience at all. They just see Westerners as a waking dollar sign and of all the places I’ve visited in Asia I’ve not felt more unwelcome than I have in Hanoi.

Pollution in Hanoi is horrific

Thank you for this article. Me and friends have a plan to go to your country. Wish us luck :D

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An Exciting Vietnam Itinerary Rated 4.3 /5 (based on 2750 reviews) An Exciting Vietnam Itinerary

Vietnam: Feel The Tranquility In The Air 7 Days & 6 Nights

Explore the fascinating Surprise Cave in Halong Bay.

Explore the fascinating Surprise Cave in Halong Bay.

Enjoy the top view of Ho Chi Minh City

Welcome to Vietnam

An unusual beauty

Have a grand trip

Hotel included in package:

  • Ho Chi Minh City (2D)
  • Da Nang (2D)

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An Exciting Vietnam Itinerary

Filled with cultural complexities ranging from 21st century megacities to laid back, tucked away fishing villages Vietnam has something to offer to each and every kind of traveler. Come, enjoy this exotic and compelling tourist haven with this Vietnam itinerary where you will get to experience the best of all that Vietnam has to offer. From the peaceful pagodas and cruise journeys across quiet waters to exciting cable car rides up to the highest peak in the Nui Chua mountains and thrilling surprises in Fantasy Park, experience all this in the best possible way with this tour.

4 Places to Visit in Vietnam

1. ho chi minh city.

What’s special: Some of the best street food is available here for the adventurous eater

Main attractions: Cu Chi Tunnels, Ben Thanh Market and Notre Dame Cathedral

Famous dish: Pho Noodles

Also known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is one of the most popular places to visit in the country. Famous for its French colonial monuments such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, as well as its many Vietnamese architectural wonders, it is a must visit for anybody touring this part of the world.

What’s special: A short day trip to My Tho is a great way to get to know it

Main attractions: Dong Tam Snake Farm, Vinh Trang Pagoda and Victory monument Rach Gam - Xoai Mut

Famous dish: Fried prawn cake

Famous for being the gateway to the Mekong Delta, a major attraction of Vietnam, My Tho is one of the most popular day trips that you can go on when here. Apart from a short cruise, you can also check out the snake farms and fruit orchards here.

What’s special: You can enjoy some of the freshest seafood available in the country

Main attractions: My Son Temple, My Khe Beach Dragon Bridge and the Marble Mountains

Famous dish: Vietnamese barbeque

If it's beaches that you are hankering after, then the best place to visit is Da Nang. Located on the coast of the East Sea, Da Nang is where you can also check out the Marble Mountains, Buddhist temples and the Da Nang Bay.

What’s special: You can enjoy French colonial architecture and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Main attractions: Hanoi Old Town Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake and Temple of Literature

Famous dish: Cha Ca (Turmeric Fish with Dill), Mien Xao Luon (Glass Noodles with Deep-Fried Eel)

Another one of the popular places to visit in Vietnam, Hanoi is where you can relax and kick back to recharge your batteries after a hectic week of sightseeing. You can check out various places of religious importance here, apart from some amazing street markets that sell great souvenirs to take back home.

As you arrive at the city of Ho Chi Minh, be overwhelmed by the exalting sights and sounds of this mesmerizing town. Experience firsthand famed glory of Vietnamese cuisine and explore the city at your own pace. Over the next few days you will have the pleasure of visiting the Unicorn Island and enjoying the Sampan Cruise in the mighty Mekong River. Also included in your Vietnam tour itinerary is the visit to the Ba Na Hills and Nui Chua Mountains.

Simply walking in the streets of Vietnam would teach you so much about the past of this country, many who visit call it a sensory overload. Rich indigenous craft industries, ancient temples showing Chinese influences in the north and Hindu style of architecture in the South, French colonies with their relaxed tree-lined boulevards and skylines defined by glass and steel corporate buildings, all exist in Vietnam in perfect harmony. As you make your journey from Ho Chi Minh city to Ha Noi and onward to the fishing village of Ba Hung, you will experience this rhythm that beats at the heart of Vietnam for yourself.

  • Enjoy exploring local markets of Ho Chi Minh City
  • Explore Unicorn Island on foot
  • Enjoy a Sampan Cruise on the Mekong River
  • Have fun on a cable car ride on Ba Na Hills
  • Taste some delicious local dishes of Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City: Arrival at Ho Chi Minh City Airport and private transfer to the hotel.

  • Relaxing experience

Other Benefits (On Arrival)

Be off to an energetic start of the Vietnam Tour Package From India as you explore the lively city of Ho Chi Minh.

Upon arrival into Tan Son Nhat International Airport, a transfer will be arranged to take you from the airport to your hotel as per your Vietnam itinerary . You have the rest of the day at leisure where you can relax for a while, shake off the jet lag and then head out to explore the city.

From the tastiest street food stalls to the classiest restaurants, from the chic boutiques to street shopping steals, Ho Chi Minh city is the town of energy and discovery. The Ben Thanh Market, the largest market in the city, should definitely be on your to do list. Stay overnight at the hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.

My Tho: Sampan Cruise and Unicorn Island

  • Cu Chi Tunnels

Boating, walking, cycling, do it all today on your Vietnam tour from India

After a hearty breakfast, leave Ho Chi Minh behind and visit My Tho. In a Sampan Cruise through Mekong River, you will sail past three beautiful islands, viz. Dragon, Phoenix and Tortoise islands before anchoring at the Unicorn island. After exploring the Unicorn island on foot, sit in a hand rowed sampan through the Thoi Son Canal where a few more activities await you on day 2 of this Vietnam itinerary for 7 days . Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and relax for sometime before cycling away into the lanes of Tan Thach village. Return to Ho Chi Minh City. Overnight stay at Ho Chi Minh City.

Da Nang: Arrive into Da Nang

  • My Khe Beach
  • Sightseeing

Age old pagodas, French colonial buildings and tranquil beaches await you at Da Nang.

Enjoy breakfast before departing for Da Nang, where a transfer will be arranged to take you from the airport to your hotel. For decades, Da Nang kept a repute of the provincial backwaters, but as you stroll down Han riverfront, you will soon realize the major modernizing changes that are happening to this quaint town. Explore the town at your leisure. Whilst here, My Khe Beach should definitely be on your to do list. Overnight stay at Da Nang.

Da Nang: Cable car ride in Ba Na hills, Fantasy park and arrive in Ha Noi

  • Cable Car Ride

A thrilling day starting with the cable car ride and including Fantasy park, dream come true.

Post a scrumptious breakfast, head out to Ba Na hills, where you will enjoy a Cable car ride all the way to Nui Chua Mountain - highest point in the Ba Na range, with stops along the way and also ride along the funicular ‘hill climbing’ railway, as per this Vietnam itinerary .

Enjoy a walk across the Golden bridge amidst the foggy hills before enjoying lunch at a restaurant. After the peaceful morning, get ready for a thrilling time in Fantasy Park - third largest indoor gaming zone before returning to the hotel. A transfer will be arranged to take you from the hotel to the airport in Da Nang, and from the airport to the hotel in Hanoi. Overnight stay in Hanoi.

Hanoi: Cruise with lots of fun activities

Blue waters, rustling winds and amazing company, all aboard the Apricot cruise.

Post a hearty breakfast, take a peaceful bus ride as your travel through the Red River delta to reach Tuan Chau Marina from where you will board the Apricot cruise. Refresh and unwind with a welcome drink on board. After a delectable lunch, explore the surprising cave with its mighty stalactites and stalagmites,, go swimming in Titop island and climb to the top for a mesmerizing view. Relax on the deck in the evening and enjoy the sunset party before dinner is served. Overnight stay on board.

Hanoi: Kayaking, Cooking and arrival into Ha Noi

  • Watersports

Row, row, row your boat all across the Ha Long bay today.

Start your day with Tai chi exercise or enjoy a photo hunt before breakfast is served on board. Go Kayaking in the Natural Preservation Zone and enjoy a cooking class where you can learn how to make spring rolls. Disembark at the Tuan Chau from where a transfer will be arranged to take you to your hotel in Hanoi. Overnight stay in Hanoi.

Hanoi: Last Glimpse of Hanoi and depart Vietnam.

  • Leisure Time

Refreshed and rejuvenated, say your goodbyes with the promise of returning.

The city of picturesque pagodas, Hanoi is a town bustling with life. Explore the city, walk in the streets of Old Quarters and sample market wares and watch farmers market their wares at the street corners. Hanoi is a town that is trying to make up for the lost time and ravages of war by opening its arms wide and welcoming one and all with equal gusto. Based on your flight, a private transfer will be arranged to take you from the Hotel to the Airport. Depart for India with unforgettable memories of the time spent in this beautiful country post breakfast.

Note: Our agents will provide you these or similar hotels depending on availability

Golden silk boutique hotel

Golden silk boutique hotel

109-111 Hang Gai, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam

Trip Advisor

Ho chi minh city

Silverland central hotel & spa

Silverland central hotel & spa

14-16 Le Lai Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Song cong hotel

Song cong hotel

305 Nguyen Van Thoai, Son Tra District, Da Nang 511, Vietnam

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Your Preferences

Where do you want to go?

FAQs for Vietnam

What are the destinations covered in this tour.

Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong river, Danang, Ba Na hills, Ha Long Bay, Ba Hung fishing village and Hanoi.

When is the best time to visit Vietnam?

The best time to visit Vietnam is in Spring from February to April and in Autumn from August to October.

What are the major attractions in Ho Chi Minh City?

War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, Jade Emperor Temple, Giac Lam Palace are some of the major tourist attractions in Ho Chi Minh City.

Which are the must visit spots in Da Nang?

Some of the spots that should be on your to do list are: Dragon bridge, Da Nang Cathedral, Cao Dai Temple, Ho Chi Minh Museum.

List a few must see places in Hanoi?

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Temple of Literature and Hoa Lo prison Museum are a few recommended must see places in Hanoi town.

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How Much Does It Cost for A Vietnam Trip 2024/2025? (With Cost Breakdown)

  • How Much Does It Cost for A Vietnam Trip 2024/2025? (With Cost Breakdown)

If you're thinking of visiting Vietnam, you might be wondering how much a trip to Vietnam will cost you. The good news is that Vietnam is one of the most affordable travel destinations in Southeast Asia. Whether you like traveling solo or prefer a private tour, Vietnam offers something for every wallet.

Even though it's budget-friendly, you won't miss out on quality experiences and great service. With our carefully selected hotels and activities, Vietnam ensures you get the best bang for your buck.

  • Cost for a Classic Vietnam Trip
  • Cost of International Flights to Vietnam
  • Cost of Accommodation in Vietnam
  • Cost of Transportation in Vietnam
  • Cost of Attractions/Activities in Vietnam
  • Cost of Food in Vietnam
  • Tips for Maximizing Your Money

1. How much does it cost for a classic tour in Vietnam?

Based on our data from 2023, 31.8% of travelers prefer to spend 6-8 days in Vietnam . In such cases, they typically focus on one part of Vietnam—either the north, central, or southern regions—or engage in cross-border travel to neighboring countries such as Thailand and Cambodia.

Meanwhile, 21.1% opt for an 11-12 day journey across Vietnam , encompassing key destinations such as Hanoi and Halong Bay in the north, Hanoi and Da Nang in the central region, and Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta in the south.

According to our data (for a private tour), the average cost ranges from $180 to $200 per person per day based on double occupancy in 4-star hotels , increasing to $200-$250 in 5-star accommodations, and averaging $150-$180 for 3-star hotels. This price includes hotel stays, domestic airfares, entrance fees to attractions, private guides, and transportation transfers.

For a classic 11-day, 10-night Vietnam trip, the cost typically falls between $1500 and $3000 per person. (The price does not include the international flight from and back to your home.)

If you travel with a family of 4-6 people, due to more individuals sharing the vehicle and guide fees, the price per person can be reduced by around 10%.

As a reference point, here's an approximate breakdown of expenses in Vietnam:

  • Hotel:  20-30%, depending on the chosen hotel category.
  • Transportation:  15-25%, varying with the number of flights included and the choice of vehicle type, which is determined by factors such as group size and travel preferences.
  • Food:  10-15%.
  • Attractions and activities:  15-20%, contingent on the selection of sights and whether unique experiential activities are chosen.
  • Guide service and miscellaneous expenses: 10-15%.

Here are two itineraries with quotations for your reference:

  • 10-Day Best of Vietnam with Mekong Delta : US$ 2,109 per person (based on 2 persons and 4-star hotels)
  • 6-Day Northern Vietnam Discovery Tour : US$ 829 per person (based on 2 persons and 4-star hotels)

2. The Cost of International Flights to Vietnam

The average cost of a round-trip flight from the United States to Vietnam typically ranges from USD 600 to 1500 , depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and travel season.

The most budget-friendly time to fly to Vietnam is during the off-travel seasons (approximately April to May and September to October) when tourist influx decreases. It is advisable to book flight tickets 3-6 months in advance for the best deals.

Additionally, budget carriers like AirAsia and VietJet Air sometimes offer competitive rates.

For reference, see the cheapest month to fly from New York to Ho Chi Minh City.

(The data source: https://www.skyscanner.com/routes/nyca/sgn/new-york-to-ho-chi-minh-city.html )

As of February 2024, only direct flights are available from San Francisco to Ho Chi Minh City. Traveling from Los Angeles or New York to Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi would require flights with one or more layovers.

For connecting flights, if you are flying from the West Coast, you could opt for layovers in airports like Taipei, Seoul, or Tokyo; while if you are flying from the East Coast, you could consider layovers in Hong Kong or Doha, which may offer conveniences and lower fares.

Upon arrival in Vietnam, most likely, you will land in either Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, the country's two main cities. Generally, the cheapest flights to Vietnam tend to arrive in Ho Chi Minh City due to its service of multiple airlines.

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3. The Cost of Accommodation in Vietnam

Accommodation costs form a significant portion of travel expenses in Vietnam, varying greatly based on chosen options and travel seasons. Peak seasons, typically from November to March and July to August, tend to witness higher prices, while off-peak periods may offer discounts ranging from 30% to 50%.

In big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the price of hotels is typically higher compared to smaller cities or rural areas such as Hoi An and Sapa, while the rooms are usually smaller. If you are looking for relaxation and comfort, we suggest allocating more budget to stay in leisure-friendly locations such as Hoi An, Sapa, Ha Long Bay, or the Mekong Delta .

Here are the hotel prices in the main destinations for your reference.

In Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City , it is advisable to stay in the bustling urban areas for a vibrant city experience. Hotel pricing: 4-star hotels ($60-80), 4-star hotels ($80-150), 5-star hotels ($120-220).

Some of our hand-selected hotels for reference:

  • In Hanoi: La Siesta Premium Hang Be, from $130
  • In Ho Chi Minh City: Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint, from $90

For a relaxed stay in Hoi An , boutique hotels in the Ancient Town area are recommended, offering an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and ambiance. Prices typically range from $30-60 for economy options, $50-100 for comfort accommodations, and $90-180 for deluxe choices.

  • One of our hand-selected hotels for reference: La Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa, from $80

In  Sapa , if you seek tranquility and a close-to-nature experience, we suggest staying in a resort on the mountains or in the valleys rather than the downtown area.

  • One of our hand-selected hotels for reference: Topas Ecolodge, a boutique mountaintop resort, $ 230.

(My experience: I spent two nights at Topas Ecolodg, and it was my favorite hotel during my trip to Vietnam. The stunning views, the infinity pool, and the villa were all perfect. I definitely plan on returning again in the future. )

Another unmissable experience in Vietnam is the overnight cruise , such as the Ha Long Bay cruises in the north and the Mekong cruises in the south. 

For Ha Long Bay cruises, recommended options include Stellar of the Sea, Orchid, and Emperor Cruises, with prices ranging from $300 to $600. Contact us for special offers , and reach out to us today to secure a cabin with Mekong Sampan Cruises, where availability often requires booking six months in advance.

4. The Cost of Transportation in Vietnam

In Vietnam, public transportation is both convenient and affordable. For long-distance travel, we recommend taking a flight. For short distances or exploring within cities, we suggest using a private car for ease and flexibility.

Transportation Costs Between Cities

For traveling between cities, flying is the preferred option with competitively cheap airfares ranging from $50 to $150. Budget airlines such as Vietjet Air and Bamboo Airways offer affordable domestic flight options within Vietnam.

Although train and long-distance bus services are available, they are not recommended due to due to their limited cost savings compared to flights and relatively lower comfort levels. For example, a soft sleeper ticket on an overnight train from Hanoi to Da Nang can range from $40 to $80, while a bus ride from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City typically costs around $30 to $50.

However, there is one notable exception —the train between Hanoi and Lao Cai (Sapa), which offers a deluxe sleeper experience rather than merely transportation. This unique journey ranges from $30 to $80, depending on whether you choose shared or VIP air-conditioned cabins.

(My experience: I tried the Chapa Express (one supplier of the deluxe trains). The train was clean and the bed was comfortable. Water, banana, tea & coffee bags, oreo & toothbrushes were given. One drawback is the noise during the ride, affecting sleep quality, but the luxurious train experience is still worth trying.)

Transportation Costs Within the City

In urban areas, taxis are readily available with fares typically starting at $0.5-1 per kilometer. While motorbikes are prevalent in Vietnam, renting one at around $20 per day is not advisable due to safety concerns.

For touring within the city, we highly recommend hiring a private car with a driver. This option costs between US$50 to 100 for a full day of service, providing the most efficient and comfortable means of transportation.

5. The Cost of Attractions/Activities in Vietnam

Vietnam offers a lot of things to see and do. Prices for attractions and activities can vary, but most are budget-friendly.

Most museums and historical sites have an entrance fee of US$2–5 per person. Nature parks typically have fees of US$10–20 per person.

The cost of a water puppet show in Hanoi can range from 4 to 15 USD per person depending on the location and quality of the show. The AO Show in Ho Chi Minh City is about $ 50 per person.  

For some unique cultural experiences, such as cooking classes and foodie tours, the prices are about US$30–50 per person.

6. The Cost of Food in Vietnam

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its delectable flavors and affordability .

  • Street food options are abundant and can be as inexpensive as 1 to 3 USD per dish.
  • Casual dining experiences at local restaurants generally range between 2 to 6 USD per meal.
  • Mid-range restaurants typically charge between 8 to 20 USD per meal, while high-end or luxury establishments may cost $40 or more per meal.

Local coffee is notably inexpensive in Vietnam. You can savor a cup of Vietnamese iced coffee (ca phe sua da) for as little as VND 6,000 (approximately $0.25) at modest street stalls.

When it comes to Pho, the beloved Vietnamese noodle soup, prices typically span from 30,000 VND to 60,000 VND (around $1.3 to 2.6).

The average daily expenditure for dining out in Vietnam is approximately $20-30 per person per day .

It's important to note that tipping is not customary in Vietnam, and the prices indicated above generally represent the final amount you're expected to pay.

7. Visa and Travel Insurance Costs

Vietnam E-visas are issued with a validity period of up to 90 days, one entry for 25 USD or multiple entries for 50 USD. Applying for an e-visa is efficient and convenient. You can apply for the e-visa online .

A travel insurance policy for Vietnam typically costs between $30 and $200, depending on the coverage and duration of the trip.

8. Tips for Maximizing Your Money on a Vietnam Trip

  • Plan and research in advance: Research the best time for your travel, budget-friendly accommodation options, local transportation options, and food prices to get an idea of the overall cost of the trip. We are experts in this. Let us know your requirements and budget, and we will happily personalize a trip for you.
  • Be flexible: Try to be flexible with your travel dates and times, as prices may vary depending on the season and time of day (especially during the festive season around Christmas and New Year). This can help you save money on airfares, hotels, and other expenses.
  • Eat like a local: Local street food is relatively cheap and is an excellent way to experience the culture of the country while saving money. Avoid eating in touristy areas as food prices are generally higher in such places.
  • Travel with a local travel agency: Select a reliable and local travel agency, such as Asia Highlights , which offers affordable packages and deals to help you save money.

Why Travel with Asia Highlights (98.8% positive customer reviews among 10,000+)

  • Unique experiences tailored to your interests: Enjoy a premium trip that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions.
  • Hassle-free travel and peace of mind: Every aspect of your trip will be carefully planned and organized by your 1:1 travel consultant.
  • Experienced and knowledgeable guides: Your guides will be local and love to work for travelers' smiles.

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vietnam trip quora

We made a private tour through South China in January 2024. Altogether Chengdu was the highlight. We had an incredible day at Emeishan. In Chengdu our guidewas Helen. She was the diamond of all. Speaking fluently English, full of interesting stories, laughing and talking all the time. We missed her the rest of our tour. We highly recommend to go to Chengdu for 3 days when visiting China, especially with Helen.

vietnam trip quora

Other highlights are too many to mention but here are a few Ken taking us to the Terracotta Warriors and our food tour in Xian was amazing,

Our day volunteering at the Panda Base was truly unforgettable. Helen, our guide, provided us with invaluable insights about Chengdu and the pandas, enriching our tour with her knowledge and expertise. We're grateful to Helen for accompanying us throughout the day and showcasing the highlights of China.

We had a booking with China Highlights through Silvia Ye who guarenteed a perfect organisation. In Chengdu our guide was Helen. She was the diamond of all. Speaking fluently English, full of interesting stories, laughing and talking all the time. We missed her the rest of our tour. We highly recommend to go to Chengdu for 3 days when visiting China, especially with Helen.

We traveled to China during the Chinese new year and we had Kris as our guide and he is simply knowledgeable,helpful and great.

We visited Guilin for 2 days and stayed in the Guilin Waterfall hotel. Guilin was absolutely beautiful! Our guide, William, was very knowledgeable and kind! He taught us so much about Guilin and the surrounding area! We really enjoyed trying the specialty rice noodles of Guilin. Our highlight was the Li river cruise.

Amazing tour and the guide Mr. 贺霄 was very accommodating with our needs and request as we have bought our 2 years old with us. Well explained for all the place we visited. Any additional cost were informed well ahead and didn't felt any pressure if we opt not to go for additional detour. The trip was relaxing/ laid back/no rushing with zero shopping!

We had an amazing to China. Our tour guide Martin in Shanghai was super knowledgeable, caring and very flexible with our itinerary. When my wife got sick in the Shanghai, he was able to arrange an English-speaking doctor on the spot and took us to the clinic. On top of the that, Martin and the driver stayed with us at the clinic for the whole duration and drove us back to the hotel afterwards. His genuine concern for our welfare and willingness to go the extra mile did not go unnoticed, and we were deeply touched by his kindness and compassion.

Guilin, but mostly Yangshuo was at the tail end of our China adventure so there was a lot to live up to. Having a guide like Gary Wei meant that our trip ended on a high! We arrived in Guilin very late from an 11 hour train journey. Gary met us with gifts of fruit, sweet bread and cakes which was so unexpected and thoughtful.Gary's knowledge of the area was exceptional and his attention to us the same. He really took our children under his wing - even tuning in to annoying sibling rivalry and managing to keep the peace very well! Gary was our personal photographer at times and even our Taiji instructor, making a beautiful video of us all doing Taiji in a scenic setting :)The cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo is definitely worth taking and we enjoyed our few nights in the area, riding bikes along the river, doing a cooking class and enjoying the scenery

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Best Vietnam Tour Packages in 2024

If you are planning a Vietnam trip, MakeMyTrip is the right place to come to. Whatever your travel preference, you will find suitable Vietnam holiday packages here. Whether you are looking for Vietnam packages for a family or a couple, escorted Vietnam tour packages for your parents or offbeat Vietnam holidays for yourself, MakeMyTrip can help you sort out your Vietnam itinerary.

Explore a variety of Vietnam tours from India and choose from Vietnam travel packages with or without flights. With our unbeatable deals and discounts, your money goes further! Don’t forget to add tours and activities to your selected Vietnam holiday packages. We curate our Vietnam packages by theme as well, to help you find your kind of holiday. Whether you are exploring Vietnam honeymoon packages or adventurous Vietnam holidays, you will find the right choice at MakeMyTrip. Be it a short trip or long Vietnam itinerary, a relaxing stay on the Vietnam beaches or an active holiday, whatever your travel style, MakeMyTrip has the right Vietnam travel packages for you to choose from. Looking for a luxury holiday? Check out our luxury Vietnam packages offering the best of hotels and inclusions designed to pamper you on your Vietnam holiday.

To help you prepare for your Vietnam travel, we have put together some tips on Vietnam tourism such as the best time to visit Vietnam, things to do in Vietnam and so on. Read on to learn more!

Best time to visit Vietnam

The best time to visit Vietnam is during the months of spring (February to April) and autumn (August to October). This is when the Vietnam weather is most suitable, with the temperatures moderate and rainfall lighter. In spring, the months of March and April have the lowest rainfall across all destinations and temperatures are pleasant, though still cool in the far northern part of Vietnam. Vietnam tourism tends to peak in different parts of the country in different times of the year due to these differences in weather.

How to reach Vietnam

The two main international airports for Vietnam travel are Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Connecting flights to both these airports are available from Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bangalore, and Kochi etc. on airlines such as Thai Airways, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, and Air India etc.

Indigo Airlines has launched a direct flight to Hanoi from Kolkata with effect from October 2019, which has significantly improved Vietnam tourism from India.

Vietnam Visa for Indians

The process of obtaining a Vietnam visa for Indians is relatively easily and painless, especially if you are applying online. If you wish to handle your application yourself, you can apply through this website which is recognized by the Vietnam Immigration Department.

The application once submitted online gets processed within 3 business days. Once your e-visa is approved, you need to print it out and carry it with you on your Vietnam trip. Upon arrival at the port of entry in Vietnam (Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh City/Da Nang), you will be required to show your Approval Letter and passport and hand over two passport-size photos (4cm x 6cm) and cash payment for the Stamping Fee to the Immigration Officer, who will then stamp the Vietnam Visa in your passport.

If you wish to apply for your visa offline directly through the Vietnam Embassy, you can do so with the consideration that it might take 7-10 working days. You can also make use of MakeMyTrip’s Visa Assistance service for Vietnam.

Places to visit in Vietnam

Vietnam is a country full of interesting contrasts, and Vietnam tourism offers the traveller a variety of things to do and attractions to marvel at. Here are some of the principal places to visit in Vietnam, which you can easily pre-book in your Vietnam itinerary with the help of your travel consultant to ensure hassle-free travel.

Ha Long Bay

For a magical and serene experience, visit the enchanting Ha Long Bay in northern Vietnam. With its emerald green waters and towering limestone formations rising from the water like sea dragons, Ha Long Bay is one of the most popular places to visit in Vietnam. The Bay is home to 2,000 islands studded with caves, picturesque beaches and lovely floating villages. Cat Ba Island, one of the largest islands here, is one of the prominent Vietnam tourist places and is known for its National Park with wonderful trekking opportunities. Another national park called the Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park is home to picturesque caves like the Hang Son Doong Cave and Paradise Cave. There are also lesser-known Vietnam beaches like Tua Chau, Soi Sim and Tiptop that are perfect for basking in the sun and indulging in water sports like scuba diving and kayaking. Ha Long Bay tours are very popular in Vietnam honeymoon packages.

Cu Chi Tunnels

Located in Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi network of tunnels is about 250 kilometers long and was created in 1940 by the soldiers as a hiding spot during the time of Vietnam War and later American war. The network consists of winding tunnels, narrow branches, countless hidden doors, storage facilities for weapons, and secret paths for canals and rivers that end at the Cambodia border. Visitors can explore the tunnels, watch a black and white informative movie, get their pictures clicked against the massive war tanks and also try their hand at firing any of the original weapons kept here. For history buffs, this is one of the most popular Vietnam tours to add to a Vietnam itinerary.

Reunification Palace

The Reunification Palace is one of the must-visit places in Ho Chi Minh City. The Palace served as the residence of the President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. The palace is now known as the iconic spot where a North Vietnamese Army tank crashed into the entry gate and marked the end of the Vietnam War in 1975. The two tanks which were used to capture the palace can still be seen parked outside the palace. Surrounded by lush trees, the palace serves as a museum of the 1970’s now. Its basement still has tunnels, a war room, and a telecommunications centre. There is also a casino on the fifth floor and heliport at the rooftop of the palace.

The War Remnants Museum

One of the important Vietnam tourist places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City, the War Remnants Museum gives visitors a glimpse into the Vietnam War. The museum displays a collection of American military equipment including a helicopter with rocket launchers, a fighter plane, a tank, and a bomb weighing 6,800 kg. The prime attraction of the museum is the ‘tiger cages’ where the South Vietnamese Government imprisoned their political prisoners. There are also graphic photographs of victims who suffered from the effects of ‘Agent Orange’ chemical spray.

Hanoi Old Quarter

Located near Hoan Kiem Lake in Vietnam’s charming capital Hanoi, the Old Quarter is soaked in immense history and culture and is one of the most popular places to visit in Vietnam, especially for history buffs and architecture lovers. The Old Quarter is packed with charming French colonial architecture and Buddhist pagodas. The Hanoi Opera House, National Museum of Vietnamese History, the One Pillar Pagoda, Bach Ma Temple and the mansion of the former Governor-General of French-Indochina are some of the major tourist attractions here. Other than historical attractions, The Old Quarter is also a major commercial centre, and therefore, every shopper’s delight. The bustling streets are lined with shop-houses, boutique shops, and local stalls that sell silk items, embroidered fabrics, conical hats, paintings and lacquer ware. There are also plenty of cafes, restaurants and street stalls that serve authentic Vietnamese delicacies.

Ninh Binh 

Ninh Binh is one of the most unspoilt destinations in Vietnam and is located to the southeast of Hanoi. The town has an abundance of picturesque landscapes, historical architecture and religious sites. To experience the true beauty of Ninh Binh, one can take a scenic boat ride on the river and enjoy stunning views of the paddy fields, sheer limestone outcrops and naturally formed caves. For nature lovers, the Van Long Nature Reserve offers postcard perfect landscapes all around. Birdwatchers can visit the Thing Nham Bird Garden, which has a diverse collection of various species of birds. Other than the awe-inspiring natural beauty, there are also historical citadels, cathedrals, temples, and pagodas that can be found in Hoa Lu which was the ancient capital of Vietnam. There are also local markets where one can shop and indulge in authentic Vietnamese food.

Ba Na Hill, Da Nang

A beautiful mountain top resort complex, Bana Hill in Da Nang is one of the popular Vietnam tourist places. Along with plenty of sightseeing opportunities, it also offers an exciting assortment of entertainment options. The most popular attraction here is the magnificent Golden Bridge. The bridge is held by two giant stone hands emerging from the dense forests below and offers a spectacular view of the lush surroundings. Another favourite attraction among tourists is the scenic French village, where one can stroll on the cobblestoned streets past striking European style architecture and take amazing pictures. For fun moments with family, the Fantasy Park is full of amazing rides, activities and games. Whether it’s the mystical Fairy Forest, the thrilling Free-Fall Tower or the 3D mega 360-degree cinema, the park will offer unforgettable fun experiences.

Marble Mountains, Da Nang

The Marble Mountains are a group of five hills in Da Nang that are made from marble and limestone. The mountains are named after the five elements - fire, metal, earth, water and wood. The highest peak, Mt. Thuy (water), is the only one that is open to public. With dramatic peaks rising up from the flat surface of the earth, the mountains are dotted with mysterious caves, meandering tunnels, temples and Buddhist sanctuaries, making them a prominent pilgrimage destination as well. Visitors can hike up and enjoy spectacular panoramic views of other marble mountains and the picturesque coastline of Da Nang. There are also elevator facilities available for people who would like to go up straight to the summit and skip the hike. This is one of the most popular Vietnam tours to pre-book in Vietnam tour packages from India.

Chua Ong Pagoda, Hoi An

An ancient beauty, the 17 th century Chua Ong Pagoda is one of the most popular places to see in Hoi An. The shrine built in the Chinese style of architecture, is dedicated to Quan Van Truong, a brave and talented General during the Three Kingdom period. The stunning architecture of the pagoda is divided into four sections. The main hall houses Quan Van Truong’s statue which is known for its brilliant craftsmanship and is surrounded by two escort statues and two horses. Ancient artefacts and paintings are also displayed within the pagoda.

An Bang Beach

The An Bang Beach is a hidden gem amongst the Vietnam beaches and is known for its unspoilt stretch of shimmering sands and turquoise blue waters away from the hustle and bustle of Hoi An. It offers a wide range of fun seaside activities such as swimming, paddle-boarding, and surfing. Visitors can indulge in water sports, bask in the sun, and enjoy a peaceful stroll along the shore. There are also beachfront resorts which not only provide comfortable accommodation but also striking views of the Marble Mountains, Da Nang Bay and Cham Island. Vietnam honeymoon packages can be customised to include this enchanting beach destination.

The Saigon Central Post Office

The Central Post Office in Ho Chi Minh City is a gorgeous example of French colonial architecture. Designed by Alfred Foulhoux, the grand building was constructed between 1886 and 1891 and features a French style of architecture. The bright yellow painted building has arched windows and intricately patterned tile flooring on the inside. The walls are painted with two maps, one displaying Cambodia and Vietnam and the other displaying the Saigon region. This exquisite building is used as a post office even today, offering postal services as well as stamps and postcards that can bought as souvenirs to take back home.

What to Eat in Vietnam

  • Bánh Mì - This is a unique French-Vietnamese sandwich made with toasted baguette, pate, pickled vegetables, butter, cilantro, soy sauce, hot peppers and chillies. The sandwich is also served with a variety of meat fillings like roasted pork belly, fried egg, grilled pork loin, fried fish, boiled sausages and poached chicken. This sandwich is a great breakfast option and is a must try food in Vietnam.
  • Pho - Any trip to Vietnam is incomplete without trying its signature dish, Pho, which is made of rice noodles in mouth-watering flavourful soup with meat and topped with green onions. This dish is served with fermented fish or chilli sauce. A hot bowl of Pho makes for a hearty breakfast and can be eaten at any local restaurant, street market and food stalls in Vietnam.
  • Chao muc - Chao Muc is a dry squid porridge which is a popular delicacy of Ho Chi Minh City, especially during a rainy day. A hot bowl of Chao Muc is made with rice porridge and dry squid. The dish is served with Chinese cruller and topped with spring onion and ginger strips. If you are in Ho Chi Minh City during rainy season, then a hot bowl of Chao Muc is sure to keep you warm.
  • Banh Xeo (Crispy Pancake) - Banx Xeo is another savoury Vietnamese snack which is similar to a crepe or a pancake and is made of rice flour, turmeric and coconut milk and is filled with vermicelli noodles, sliced onions, beansprouts, mushrooms and any meat of your choice. It is served with a side of lettuce or rice papers and peanut butter sauce. This snack is easily available in many local restaurants, roadside stalls, and street markets.
  • Goi Cuon - Goi Cuon is a popular Vietnamese snack and is also considered healthy. It’s made of thin vermicelli noodles, basil, lettuce, pork slices and shrimp, wrapped in rice papers. It is served with ground chillies and hoisin sauce with crushed peanuts. This snack is available with almost any street vendor and local restaurant in Vietnam.
  • Mi Quang - Mi Quang is another dish that must not be missed while visiting Vietnam. This dish is made with yellow-coloured rice noodles in a delicious mix of bone broth seasoned with black pepper, shallots, garlic, and fish sauce. Ingredients like shrimp, boiled eggs, and roast pork are also added. Herbs like basil, peanuts, lettuce, sesame, rice crackers and coriander are also served with this dish. The delectable Mi Quang is not to be missed on your Vietnam travel.
  • Bun Thit Nuong - Bun Thit Nuong is a savoury Vietnamese treat that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. This dish comprises of thin vermicelli rice noodles, sliced cucumber, chopped lettuce, pickled daikon, basil, chopped peanuts, and bean sprouts topped with grilled pork. Unlike most Vietnamese noodle dishes, this dish isn’t mixed with soup but instead served with a side of nuoc cham sauce for a more flavourful taste.
  • Com Tam (Broken Rice) - In Vietnamese, Com Tam translates into ‘broken rice’. Com Tam is steamed rice which is popularly served with green onions, fried egg, a variety of meats, and a side of nuoc cham dipping sauce, cucumber slices, and pickled vegetables. This dish is mostly eaten for breakfast or lunch but can be savoured at any time of the day and is sold by many street vendors and local restaurants.

Indian Restaurants in Vietnam

If the craving for Indian food strikes you while you are on your Vietnam tour package, do not despair. Here are just some suggestions of Indian restaurants in Vietnam that you could visit.

Hanoi : Namaste; An Nam Indian Cuisine; Spices; Zaika

Nihn Bin : Aroma

Hoi An : Ganesh Hoi An

Da Nang : Family Indian Halal Restaurant

Hue : Ganesh Hue

Ho Chi Minh City : Ganesh Saigon; Tandoor; Ganges

Fun things to do in Vietnam

Apart from visiting the main Vietnam tourist places, you can add a host of activities to your Vietnam tour packages from India. Here are just a few suggestions of some cool things to do in Vietnam, which can be pre-booked to create customised Vietnam holidays.

Water Puppetry Show, Hanoi

If you are visiting Vietnam with kids, then the Water Puppetry Show in Hanoi is one of the best things to include in Vietnam holiday packages. Water Puppetry has been a tradition in Vietnam since 11th century and is a great way to learn about Vietnam’s traditions and culture. The performance takes place in a waist-deep pool with traditional Vietnamese music playing in the background. The puppets are controlled by 8 puppeteers who hide behind a bamboo screen and take you to ancient Vietnam with their performances and tales of village lifestyle, mythical creatures, and the renowned Legend of the Restored Sword of King. One of the best places to watch this show is the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi.

Countryside Tour by Bike

If you love biking, then you must add this experience to your Vietnam tour package. Savour the unique experience of exploring Vietnam’s charming countryside on a guided bike tour. Ride along the scenic villages dotted with traditional houses and vibrant rice paddies, stop by street food stalls to try Vietnamese delicacies and chat with locals to get to know more about their culture and lifestyle. You can also visit various local markets, temples, and ride past the fish farms while watching locals engaged in their regular activities. This is a great activity to include in Vietnam honeymoon packages for a day of offbeat and experiential fun.

Learn Vietnamese cooking

Taking a cooking class in Vietnam and learning how to make the traditional Vietnamese food is one of the best things to do in Vietnam. You will learn about a variety of flavourful ingredients that make Vietnamese food worth drooling over, and receive a step by step explanation on how to cook some of these delicacies. With this amazing experience, whether it’s a soupy bowl of Pho or the fresh Goi Cuon, you can cook your favourite recipe in your own kitchen whenever you miss any mouth-watering dish of Vietnam.

Visit to My Son ruins

If you are a history buff, then you must add a trip to the My Son ruins to your Vietnam package. The My Son ruins are a collection of ancient temples and towers which were nearly destroyed during the Vietnam War and at present lie in ruins. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ruins stand against the backdrop of lush green mountains and are surrounded by a peaceful atmosphere. You can get a glimpse into the fascinating history of Vietnam as you wander through the incredibly detailed ruins such as the My Son temple and the sculpted Cham figures.

Turtle Island – Mekong delta excursion

Enjoy an excursion to the secret paradise of Turtle Island in Mekong Delta. The beautiful Turtle Island is known for its scenic beauty with white Sonneratia flowers, coconut trees, and rustic houses dotted amidst the charming orchards of oranges, grapefruit and many other fruits. You can explore this beautiful island, taste fresh fruits from orchards, and enjoy traditional Vietnamese music called Don Ca Tai Tu while drinking a cup of honey tea. You can visit a coconut candy factory and witness how the candy is manufactured, and buy coconut handicraft souvenirs to take back home. This is one of the most fascinating of all Vietnam tours that you can take from Ho Chi Minh City.

Xep Canal – Mekong Delta excursion

Visit Mekong Delta and explore its scenic beauty on a boat ride through the Xep Canal. Enjoy a delightful boat ride through the mesmerizing waterways as you make your way amidst the lush forest of palm trees and sail past the picturesque yellow and green rice paddies, gorgeous orchards, rows of coconut trees, and quaint village houses. You will be surrounded by a serene atmosphere and get a glimpse into the rural life of Vietnam. For people who love being surrounded by nature, this is a must-add experience to include in Vietnam tour packages or Vietnam honeymoon packages.

Ha Long Bay Tour

Ha Long Bay is one of the most visited attractions in Vietnam and cruising over the vast sea here is the best way to experience its enchanting beauty. You can tour this island through a cruise or a kayak and enjoy the sheer karst landscape as you sail close to the towering limestone cliffs, floating villages, picturesque caves, and stop at any of the gorgeous islets on your tour. This tour will offer you not only an insight into the lifestyle and culture of Vietnam, but also stunning photo opportunities to capture beautiful vistas all around. Add this experience to your Vietnam tour package and make your Vietnam trip an unforgettable one.

Try the famous Vietnamese coffee

A cup of Vietnamese coffee is a must try on your Vietnam travel. Vietnam is known for its unique assortment of coffee and has a flavour for everyone. The most popular is a Cà phê Trứng (egg coffee) which is similar to a tiramisu and is prepared by blending coffee with egg yolk and sweet milk. This coffee is served in a bowl of hot water so that it stays warm. If this concoction is too sweet for you then you can try another unique version of Vietnamese coffee which is Cà phê Muối (salt coffee). This coffee is served with a sprinkle of salt in the condensed milk and tastes like caramel. Other popular varieties that you can try are coconut coffee and yoghurt coffee which taste equally flavourful.

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Frequently asked questions about vietnam tour packages.

Q. What is the best city to visit in Vietnam?

A: There are a number of beautiful cities in Vietnam that can be visited as a part of Vietnam holiday packages. These include Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi Ann, Sapa, Ha Long Bay, Hue, Phu Quoc and so on.

Q. What is the rainy reason in Vietnam?

A. Vietnam is a large country and covers a diversity of latitudes, hence the wet season varies across different parts of the country. As a general indicator, we can say that Hanoi and other parts of North Vietnam experience the largest amount of rainfall between the months of July and September. In Central Vietnam (Hue, Danang, Hoi An, Dalat etc.) the months of October and November are the wettest, while Southern Vietnam including Ho Chi Minh City experiences the peak rainy season from June to August. Tourists should plan their Vietnam holidays accordingly.

Q. Is Vietnam expensive to travel to from India?

A. Cost of travel around Vietnam is similar to that in Thailand and neighbouring countries. The airfare is likely to be the largest component of Vietnam tour packages from India. Overall, a Vietnam trip can be comfortably managed on a budget.

Q. Does Vietnam have good beaches?

A. Vietnam is a country with a massive 2000 miles of coastline, and it has a fair number of very picturesque beaches. Apart from the beautiful Vietnam beaches, there are also has some very scenic islands such as Phu Quoc which tourists can visit as part of Vietnam travel packages.

Ques. What is the best season to visit Vietnam?

Ans. Vietnam tour packages are usually available for almost every season and time of year. It is a round-the-year travel destination because of its tropical climate. However, Spring and Autumn are the perfect seasons to visit the country as the rainfall is low with pleasant weather conditions. Vietnam witnesses Spring from February to April and Autumn from August to October.

Ques. How many days do I need in Vietnam?

Ans. You will find amazing Vietnam tour packages that can help you explore major landmarks in about 10 days. This is the minimum recommended time to soak in the cultural joie-de-vivre and check out key historical attractions. You need at least a week’s time to thoroughly explore Vietnam, although there will always be more things to do and see! The ideal time frame is around twelve days as per several travel experts, since it enables spending time in a minimum of three leading cities with jaunts to the countryside too. This will also give you ample time to indulge in activities like village tours, biking and kayaking.

Ques. What should I pack for a Vietnam trip?

Ans. Your most-awaited trip to Vietnam can be planned perfectly from a variety of exciting Vietnam tour packages available online. And, while you are all set for the holiday, do not forget to make your packing list alongside. Here’s what you should absolutely carry on your trip: A sturdy backpack to accommodate some basic clothing, sunscreen, snacks, water and other local purchases you make. Travel pillows for those frequent trips throughout the country. Ear plugs for good sleep at night. Quick-drying and lightweight towels. Medicines for diarrhoea or stomach upsets. Pack covered clothing for visits to temples, pagodas and other sacred sites. Sturdy hiking/trekking shoes, flip-flops and sandals. Travel adapters are recommended along with chargers, sunscreen and hats. Insect repellent is a must along with cortisone cream for sudden mosquito bites.

Ques. What are the biggest tourist draws in Vietnam?

Ans. Want to customise Vietnam tour packages to suit your preferences? Here are some landmarks that you should consider including in your travel plans: Khai Dinh Tomb- The tomb showcases stunning architecture that is a fusion of Roman Gothic and Buddhist influences, being commissioned in the 1920s by the Emperor of Vietnam. Do not miss the Thien Dinh and Honour Courtyard here. Con Dao Islands- These were called the Devil’s Island of Indochina and prisoners were kept securely here earlier. These islands are hot tourist favourites today with activities like snorkelling and scuba diving on offer. The beaches are gorgeous, to say the least. Marble Mountains- Lying southwards from Da Nang, the five mountain peaks draw their names from the five elements, namely water, earth, fire, wind and wood. The mountains also house several stunning caves and Buddhist shrines. Notre Dame Cathedral- Saigon/Ho Chi Minh City is home to the beautiful Notre Dame Cathedral that dates back to the late-19th century. Its architecture is worth admiring, along with its interior stained glass panels and Virgin Mary statue.

Ques. Which are Vietnam’s best cafes?

Ans. Are you a serious coffee lover browsing through Vietnam tour packages online? If yes, then here are some cafes that should definitely be a part of your travel plans: La Viet Coffee- La Viet Coffee sits amidst lovely fields, mansions and forests while offering a buzzing space with fantastic coffee. You will love the souvenir store here, while trying the lavender iced coffee or raspberry macchiato, among other delights. Factory Coffee Roaster- Factory Coffee Roaster is a contemporary café with a striking façade and wonderful atmosphere, complete with a pond, booths and sleek seating. Premier Vietnamese and global coffees dominate the menu along with smoothie bowls, pastries and juices. The Workshop- Coffee connoisseurs will fall in love with this charming café for its lovely views and delicious all-day breakfast menu.

Ques. Which are the leading restaurants in Vietnam?

Ans. Vietnam has multiple leading restaurants that people often include as a part of their Vietnam tour packages. Here are some of the options that are worth trying on your trip: Lac Thien, Lac Thanh and Lac Thuan- Enjoy authentic and delicious Vietnamese fare at this wonderful restaurant that dates back to 1965. Do not miss the Bun Thit Nurong and Pho. Morning Glory- Morning Glory set up shop in 2006 and offers sumptuous lunches, including irresistible picks such as the white rose dumplings or roast duck salad rolls. The Banh Mi beef steak is also worth trying here along with the rice paper rolls with pork and shrimp.

Ques. How do I reach Vietnam?

Ans. While you choose from available Vietnam tour packages and figure out the activities that you wish to include, a little information on reaching the country will aid your plans. You can take a flight to Ho Chi Minh or Hanoi which have direct and connecting flights from several countries, including India. There is another international airport at Danang. Those staying in Singapore often choose exciting cruises to Ho Chi Minh City, while spending a few relaxing days on the waters. These cruise journeys usually require 9-10 days on average.

Ques. What are the topmost local foods of Vietnam?

Ans. Foodies will find plenty of top restaurants and street food hubs to include in their preferred Vietnam tour packages. Some of the best local dishes to try in Vietnam include the following: Bun bo Hue- A globally acclaimed dish, it fuses noodles with beef, shrimp paste, lemongrass and is served with diced spring onions, lime wedges and cilantro along with chilli sauce. Cơm tấm- Cơm tấm or broken rice is another delicacy in Vietnam. This involves broken grains being cooked in accompaniment with minced pork, grilled pork and mushroom meatloaf, while being topped off with omelettes. The latter are called Chả Trứng Hấp. Gỏi cuốn/Nem cuốn- You will love the fresh and piping spring rolls in Vietnam, crafted with rice paper. Fillings usually include grilled prawns/pork along with tofu, squid, sausages, vegetables and cold vermicelli noodles. You may try accompanying sauces like peanut sauce, Hoisin sauce and fish sauce.

Ques. What do I buy in Vietnam?

Ans. Shopping should be a pivotal part of any Vietnam vacation! While booking Vietnam tour packages, ensure that you include some time to purchase the top souvenirs and other products in the country. These include the following: Bags and jackets at affordable rates. Branded footwear at reasonable prices. Premier clothing and accessories, along with luggage. Coffees and filters, especially the Sang Tao Coffee. Vietnamese hats in traditional styles, along with the famous Ao Dai dress that is worn by both women and men. Local paintings, lanterns and musical instruments.

Ques. Where should I shop in Vietnam?

Ans. There are many Vietnam tour packages to suit every need. What about tours that help you indulge your inner shopaholic to the hilt? Here are some shopping destinations in Vietnam that you should not miss: Street Night Market- This market has close to 4,000 shops retailing everything from clothing, accessories and footwear to appliances, artefacts, figurines, souvenirs and delicious street food. Quang Ba Flower Market- Wander through this charming market, taking in the stunning flowers and colours all around! Dong Xuan Market- It is an indoor market that offers meats, seafood, handbags, vegetables, accessories, t-shirts, Vietnamese hats, handicrafts and a lot more. Bat Trang Pottery Village- If you are fond of pottery souvenirs like dishes and items of worship, then you can visit this fascinating village. You can also create a custom product under the guidance of a professional potter. Hanoi Night Market- The Hanoi Night Market is a great place to feast on local street food, while buying accessories and handicrafts at attractive prices. Several musical performances and events also take place here regularly.

VIETNAM PACKAGES BY THEME

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Gadt Travel

How much Vietnam trip cost from India

Hannah Nguyen

How much does it cost for a Vietnam trip from India? If you have this question in mind, keep reading you will find the answer.

Vietnam trip cost from India depends on many factors such as trip duration, type of tours, flight tickets, accommodation, transport, food, and visit tickets. In this article, you can estimate Vietnam travel costs from India for yourself.

Travel Visa Cost for Indians in Vietnam

Visa expense is the first item in your Vietnam tourism cost from India. Indian tourists must apply for a visa in order to enter Vietnam. The Vietnam Immigration Department offers an online E-visa application process for a fee of $25 per person approx ₹2100 (visit this link to apply for E-visa). The E-visa is typically received via email within 5-7 business days. Alternatively, travel agencies like Gadt Travel can assist with obtaining an E-visa for a fee, potentially expediting the process within one day.

vietnam trip quora

Vietnam Trip Cost from India for International Flight

A flight ticket is the second item in Vietnam travel cost from India you need to put on the list.

There are several airlines that offer direct flights from India to Vietnam, such as Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air, making it convenient to travel between the two countries. Alternatively, you can book a transit flight via Indigo. The cost of a round-trip flight from India to Vietnam usually ranges from ₹20,000 to ₹40,000, depending on factors such as flight time, airlines, and transit or direct flights.

To ensure you get the best airfares, it is advisable to book your flight tickets in advance, taking advantage of airline promotions and booking in stages. It is recommended to book flights to and from major cities in Vietnam, such as Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh. From there, you can easily book domestic flights to other destinations within Vietnam.

You can check and book your flight tickets on the website MakeMyTrip or Cleartrip.

Vietnam trip from above

Traveling expenses in Vietnam

Traveling expense is the third item on your list for Vietnam trip costs from India.

Transfer Cost Between The Cities In Vietnam

Transfer by air.

Vietnam is not a large country, but it is quite long. Some cities are situated at a considerable distance from each other, such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. The most convenient way to travel between these cities is by air, as it is the fastest option. The cost of flights between cities in Vietnam varies depending on the distance between the cities, the airline, and the time of booking. It usually ranges from about ₹4000 to ₹8000 per one way ticket.

Most popular flight routes when you travel in Vietnam.

  • Hanoi – Da Nang
  • Hanoi – Ho Chi Minh City
  • Da Nang – Ho Chi Minh City
  • Ho Chi Minh City – Phu Quoc
  • Ho Chi Minh City – Nha Trang
  • Ho Chi Minh City – Da Lat

Transfer by Train

You can travel to most cities in Vietnam from north to south by train. However, the journey may take a while because the train tends to move slowly. Nonetheless, traveling by train can be a delightful experience. Below are some of the stages where you can book train tickets to enjoy this experience.

  • Hanoi – Lao Cai (Sapa): Around ₹1700 per ticket with bed and air conditioner
  • Hue – Da Nang: Around ₹500 per ticket without bed

Transfer By Bus

Some cities are close to each other you can travel by bus. Fares range from ₹500 – ₹1600 depending on the distance between cities. Here are some routes that you can travel by bus.

  • Hanoi – Halong
  • Hanoi – Ninh Binh
  • Hanoi – Sapa
  • Hanoi – Ha Giang
  • Da Nang – Hoi An
  • Da Nang – Hue
  • Hue – Quang Binh
  • Ho Chi Minh – Nha Trang
  • Ho Chi Minh – Da Lat
  • Ho Chi Minh – Mui Ne
  • Ho Chi Minh – Mekong Delta

Vietnam trip cost from India for Airport transfer

You can go by bus, taxi, grab or book airport service. From Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi) to the city center, the bus ticket price is from ₹110 to ₹105/person. The public bus is very cheap but it will take 30-40 minutes to reach the city center.

You can also grab a taxi outside of the arrival hall and pay from ₹900 to ₹1600 depending on your drop-off point. However, the taxi driver may try to go the longest way, the price may be higher than that. You can also book a Grab outside of the arrival hall from ₹845 to ₹1500.

However, for all the above transport, you need to go outside and find vehicles yourself. A private airport transfer service is also available. The driver will wait for you at the arrival hall with your name board. It is also convenient if you go in a big group. The price is only from ₹1500 to ₹2600. If you are interested in our private airport transfer service, you can visit our website to learn more.

Transfer expenses in the city

Hiring a motorbike is only ₹500 and drive around the city. Remember to fill your motorbike with fuel before you go because the motorbike you hire often has little fuel left. It costs around ₹450 to fulfill the tank.

Travel by public bus is another option, but it is only available in big cities such as Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. The ticket is from ₹24 to ₹42 per person.

Otherwise, grabbing a taxi to move around is also a good idea, the price is from ₹1700 to ₹3400. There are some reliable taxi brands in Vietnam such as Taxi Group, Mai Linh, and Vinasun.

You can also book Grab to move around the city. However, Grab is only available in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang.

vietnam trip quora

Accommodation expenses in Vietnam

Accommodation is the fourth thing on the Vietnam trip cost is.

When traveling to Vietnam, there are plenty of accommodation options available to suit different budgets and preferences. From luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hostels, Vietnam has it all.

For those looking to save money, hostels and guesthouses are excellent options. These types of accommodation usually offer dormitory-style rooms or private rooms with shared bathrooms, and prices can range from as low as ₹500 to ₹3500 per night. The quality of these accommodations varies, so it’s best to read reviews and check photos before booking.

If you prefer more comfort and privacy, mid-range hotels are also widely available in Vietnam. Prices for mid-range hotels typically range from ₹2500 to ₹5000 per night, and they offer amenities such as private bathrooms, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi.

For travelers seeking more luxury, there are plenty of high-end hotels and resorts in Vietnam. These accommodations usually offer spacious rooms, top-notch facilities, and stunning views, with prices starting from ₹8200 per night.

Overall, the cost of accommodation in Vietnam is relatively affordable, and there is a range of options available to suit different budgets and needs.

vietnam trip quora

Food & beverages Cost in Vietnam

Indian food.

Food and beverage is the fifth item in your Vietnam tourism cost. You can find many Indian restaurants here. You can check Rasm Indian Cuisine in Hanoi. Family India is quite popular in Da Nang. In Ho Chi Minh City, you can try Tandoor Indian Restaurant. The price is from ₹250 to ₹1900.

Vietnamese food

You can also try Vietnamese food for just ₹250 such as Pho Ga (Chicken Noodle soup), bun ca (Fish noodle soup) or Bun hai san (seafood noodle). If you a fan of coffee, egg coffee is a must-try drink in Hanoi It’s only ₹100 for a cup of coffee.

If you are a vegetarian, Peace Vegan in Hanoi is a good choice. The price for one adult is only ₹205, you can choose any dish you want. Vietnam trip costs for food and drink are very cheap for Indians.

vietnam trip quora

Vietnam travel cost for entrance tickets

The last item to think about Vietnam’s tourism costs is entrance tickets. The cost of entrance fees in Vietnam varies depending on the attractions and value of experience. Generally, tickets range from ₹85 to ₹260 per person. However, for destinations that include activities such as boat trips, electric cars, cable cars, or lunch, the cost can fluctuate between ₹450 to ₹2600 per person. For example, Ba Na Hill tickets up to ₹3200 per person without buffet lunch (updated 2023)

On your Vietnam trip, you can spend two days in Hanoi to visit some famous destinations. It’s free of charge to visit some famous spots such as Hoan Kiem Lake, The Old Quarter, and Long Bien Bridge. If you visit Ngoc Son Temple, Temple of Literature, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and Imperial Citadel of Thăng Long, tickets are around ₹140. The water puppet show is also an interesting activity for Indians, the ticket is only ₹340 to ₹680.

From Hanoi, you can spend two or three days visiting faraway destinations such as Ha Long Bay, Hoa Lu Ninh Binh or Moc Chau, and Sapa. Tickets are from ₹70 to ₹2000. For example: – Mua Cave: 100,000 VND per person (approx ₹340) – Trang An: 250,000 VND per person (approx ₹900) – Halong Bay: 550,000 VND per person (approx ₹2100) (updated 2023) – Fansipan Peak cable car: 800,000 VND per person (approx ₹2800) (updated 2023)

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Ho Chi Minh City

In Ho Chi Minh City, if you visit Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica, Saigon Central Post Office, and The Opera house, it is free of charge. If you visit Independence Palace (Norodom Palace), War Remnants Museum, or Cu Chi Tunnel, the ticket is from ₹135.

Independence palace

From Ho Chi Minh City, you can also fly to Phu Quoc Island to see beaches with crystal clear water there. In Phu Quoc, some places do not require tickets such as Phu Quoc Prison, however, if you visit Safari Phu Quoc, you have to pay around ₹290 per person.  

Da Nang City is considered the most worth living city in Vietnam. Ba Na Hill and Son Tra Peninsula are the most must-see places. A ticket to visit Ba Na Hill is ₹4200/person including lunch (updated 2023).

Hoi An Ancient town and Cham Island are also close to Da Nang. They are interesting places for Indians to discover Vietnamese beaches and islands. The visiting ticket is only ₹350.

vietnam trip quora

Sum up the Vietnam trip cost from India

The cost of flights to Vietnam from India can vary depending on the time of year and the airline you choose. On average, you can expect to spend between INR 15,000-25,000 for a round-trip ticket. However, prices may increase during peak tourist seasons. To save money, consider booking your flight well in advance or using online travel agencies to find the best deals on flights for your Vietnam trip from India.

Accommodation:

The cost of accommodation in Vietnam varies depending on your preferred level of comfort and the location. Budget travelers can find dormitory-style accommodations for as low as INR 300-500 per night, while mid-range hotels cost between INR 1,500-3,000 per night. Luxury accommodations can cost upwards of INR 7,000 per night. To save on accommodation costs during your Vietnam trip from India, consider booking your stay in advance and researching the best deals online.

Food and Drink:

Vietnam is known for its delicious street food, which can be very affordable. Budget travelers can expect to spend around INR 500-700 per day on food and drink, while mid-range travelers can expect to spend INR 1,000-1,500 per day. High-end dining options can cost upwards of INR 2,500 per meal. To save on food and drink expenses during your Vietnam trip from India, try to eat at local street vendors and markets rather than high-end restaurants.

Transportation:

Transportation costs in Vietnam are relatively inexpensive. Taxis and public transportation are readily available and affordable, with average costs of INR 10-15 per kilometer for taxis and INR 5-10 per ticket for public transport. A typical day of sightseeing during your Vietnam trip from India may cost around INR 500-700. To save on transportation costs, consider using public transport or walking to get around instead of taking taxis.

Sightseeing and Activities:

Vietnam is home to numerous attractions and activities, from historic landmarks to beautiful natural scenery. The cost of entrance fees and tours can vary widely, but budget around INR 1,000-2,000 per day for activities during your Vietnam trip from India. To save on sightseeing and activity costs, research free or low-cost options in advance and consider visiting during off-peak tourist seasons.

Overall, a 10-day Vietnam trip from India can cost approximately INR 40,000-60,000 per person for budget travel, INR 60,000-80,000 per person for mid-range travel, and INR 1,00,000 and above per person for luxury travel. However, these costs can vary depending on your travel style and preferences. It’s important to note that these costs do not include travel insurance, visa fees, or any additional expenses such as souvenirs or shopping. With proper planning and budgeting, a Vietnam trip from India can be a memorable and affordable experience for Indian travelers.

Sample Vietnam Itinerary in 10 Days with 50,000 INR from Gadt Travel

Day 1: hanoi arrival..

Driver pick-up and hotel check-in. Free time. Overnight in Hanoi Old Quarter.

Day 2: Ninh Binh – Hoa Lu – Tam Coc (B, L)

Breakfast at hotel. Tour guide pick-up for Hoa Lu ancient capital and Tam Coc boat trip. Return to Hanoi in the evening. Overnight in Hanoi Old Quarter.

Day 3: Hanoi – Ha Long Bay – Sung Sot Cave & Titop Island (B, L)

Breakfast at hotel. Depart for Ha Long. 5-hour boat cruise via scenic route, lunch on board. Visit Surprising Cave, Luon Cave, and Titop Island. Return to Hanoi in the evening. Overnight in Hanoi Old Quarter.

Day 4: Hanoi City tour – Flying to Da Nang. (B)

Breakfast at hotel. Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Museum of Ethnology, Temple of Literature, Hoa Lo Prison, and Tran Quoc Pagoda. Lunch at a local restaurant. Private car to the airport for flight to Da Nang. Driver pick-up and hotel check-in. Overnight in Danang.

Day 5: Danang – Hue – Hoi An (B, L)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before being picked up by a tour guide for a trip to Hue, the ancient capital of Vietnam. On the way, you will witness stunning natural scenery, including the Hai Van Pass and Lang Co Beach. Stop at the Khai Dinh Tomb, the last tomb of the Nguyen dynasty, to marvel at the intricate details and architecture. After a Hue-style lunch, visit the Imperial Citadel and Thien Mu Pagoda on the banks of the Perfume River. Return to Danang in the evening and overnight at the hotel.

Day 6: Danang – Ba Na Hills – Hoi An (B, L)

After breakfast, visit Ba Na Hills, a French-style village with ancient villas and a cable car that holds two Guinness World Records. Explore the J’Jardin Zone with its French architecture buildings, visit Linh Ung pagoda and its giant Buddha statue, and see the famous Golden Bridge with its panoramic view. After lunch, visit the Fantasy Park indoor game center before visiting the Linh Ung Linh Tu Pagoda for a peaceful view of Danang city. Collect luggage and transfer to Hoi An for overnight stay.

Day 7: Hoi An – My Son Sanctuary- Ho Chi Minh City (B, L)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before departing for the My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with more than 70 Hindu temples. Marvel at the temples’ architecture and learn about the interesting culture of the Champa Kingdom. After lunch, explore Hoi An’s narrow lanes and centuries-old houses influenced by Chinese, Japanese, French, and European architectures. Transfer to the airport for a flight to Ho Chi Minh City and overnight at a hotel.

Day 8: Ho Chi Minh – Cu Chi Tunnels (B,L)

After breakfast, visit the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Central Post Office, structures from the French Colonial times. After lunch, visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground cities used during the Vietnam War, and learn how they were constructed. Return to the hotel in the evening.

Day 9: Ho Chi Minh – Mekong Delta (B, L)

After breakfast at the hotel restaurant, head to My Tho, a town on the left side of the Mekong River. Visit Vinh Trang Pagoda, established in the late 19th century, before boarding a sampan to cruise around Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix, and Tortoise islands. Stop at Unicorn Island to walk the country lane, see orchards, taste tropical fruits, listen to local folk music, and visit a fruit plantation. Then, take a hand-rowed sampan through Thoi Son canal to enjoy the countryside and visit a family business, honey-bee farm, and workshop for honey tea and coconut candy. You can buy souvenirs before returning to Ho Chi Minh City for an overnight stay.

Day 10: Ho Chi Minh Departure (B)

Have your last breakfast at the hotel and spend your free time until our private car comes to your hotel to pick you up and transfer you to the airport for your flight. Finish your trip in Vietnam for 10 days and we hope you had a happy time and interesting experiences about our country. We look forward to seeing you in the near future!

Service Included

  • Hotel accommodation sharing double/twin/triple rooms with daily breakfast
  • Meals as indicated in itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
  • Full transfer by AC tourist bus
  • English speaking guide
  • Cable car tickets at Ba Na Hills
  • Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary
  • Private airport transfer (only driver)

About Gadt Travel – A leading tour operator in Vietnam

Gadt Travel is the leading tour operator in Vietnam that focuses on the value of the traveler’s experience. With many years of working experience and knowledge of tourist destinations, the travel consultant team will help you design a suitable itinerary based on your demand. Professional drivers and guides will accompany and support you throughout the journey. Our operation team always monitors your itinerary to ensure that you have a perfect trip. Visit our website https://gadttravel.com to learn more our tours and book your trip.

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vietnam trip quora

vietnam trip quora

vietnam trip quora Vietnam is a fascinating country that attracts millions of travelers every year. It has a rich culture, history, and natural beauty that make it a unique and diverse destination. However, traveling to Vietnam can also pose some challenges and questions for those who are not familiar with it.

In this blog post, I will answer some of the most common questions about traveling to Vietnam that I found on Quora , a popular platform where people can ask and answer questions on various topics. I hope this blog post will help you prepare for your Vietnam trip and make it more enjoyable and memorable. vietnam trip quora

Table of Contents

Do I need a visa to visit Vietnam? vietnam trip quora

The answer to this question depends on your nationality and the length of your stay. Vietnam has a visa exemption policy for citizens of some countries, such as ASEAN members, Japan, South Korea, Russia, and some European countries. You can check the list of visa-exempt countries and the duration of their exemption on the official website of the Vietnam Immigration Department. If your country is not on the list or you want to stay longer than the exemption period, you will need to apply for a visa before your trip. You can apply for a visa online (e-visa) or through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your country. You can also apply for a visa on arrival (VOA), which means you will get your visa at the airport in Vietnam after paying a fee and presenting an approval letter that you obtain online beforehand. However, VOA is only available for air travelers and may take longer time and more hassle than e-visa. vietnam trip quora

vietnam trip quora

What is the best time to visit Vietnam?

The answer to this question depends on your preferences and the regions you want to visit. Vietnam has a tropical climate that varies from north to south and from coast to mountain. Generally speaking, the best time to visit Vietnam is from October to April, when the weather is dry and mild in most parts of the country. However, there are some exceptions and variations that you should consider:

  • The north of Vietnam has four seasons: spring (February-April), summer (May-August), autumn (September-November), and winter (December-January). The spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons, with moderate temperatures and low humidity. The summer is hot and humid, with frequent rain and storms. The winter is cold and dry, with occasional frost and snow in the mountains. vietnam trip quora
  • The central of Vietnam has two seasons: dry (January-August) and wet (September-December). The dry season is hot and sunny, with occasional typhoons in the late summer. The wet season is cooler and rainier, with possible floods and landslides in some areas.
  • The south of Vietnam has two seasons: dry (November-April) and wet (May-October). The dry season is warm and sunny, with occasional showers. The wet season is hot and humid, with heavy rain and thunderstorms. vietnam trip quora

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You should also take into account the festivals and holidays that take place in Vietnam throughout the year. Some of the most important ones are:

  • Tet (Vietnamese New Year), which usually falls in late January or early February. It is the biggest and most celebrated festival in Vietnam, when people visit their families, decorate their homes, exchange gifts, and enjoy traditional food and activities. However, it is also the busiest and most expensive time to travel in Vietnam, as many places are crowded, closed, or overpriced. vietnam trip quora
  • Reunification Day (April 30) and International Workers’ Day (May 1), which mark the end of the Vietnam War and the labor movement respectively. They are national holidays that often result in long weekends and increased travel demand.
  • Mid-Autumn Festival (late September or early October), which is a harvest festival that honors the moon and children. It is a colorful and joyful occasion, when people eat mooncakes, light lanterns, watch lion dances, and play games. vietnam trip quora
  • Christmas (December 25), which is not an official holiday but widely celebrated by Christians and non-Christians alike. It is a festive time when people decorate their homes, streets, and shops with lights, trees, and Santa Claus figures.

What are some must-see places in Vietnam?

The answer to this question depends on your interests and preferences. Vietnam has a lot of attractions that cater to different tastes and styles. However, some of the most popular and recommended places in Vietnam are:

  • Hanoi: The capital and cultural hub of Vietnam. It has a rich history that dates back to more than 1000 years ago. It has many landmarks that reflect its colonial past vietnam trip quora
  • Hanoi: The capital and  cultural hub of Vietnam. It has a rich history that dates back to more than 1000 years ago. It has many landmarks that reflect its colonial past and its revolutionary spirit, such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum , the Temple of Literature , the Old Quarter, the Hoan Kiem Lake , and the Hanoi Opera House. It also has a vibrant and diverse culture that can be seen in its museums, art galleries, theaters, and festivals. It is also a food paradise that offers some of the best dishes in Vietnam, such as pho , bun cha , cha ca, and egg coffee. vietnam trip quora
  • Halong Bay : A UNESCO World Heritage Site that features thousands of limestone islands and islets rising from the emerald water. It is one of the most scenic and spectacular sights in Vietnam and in the world. It offers various activities and experiences, such as cruising, kayaking, hiking, swimming, fishing, and exploring caves. Some of the highlights of Halong Bay are the Sung Sot Cave , the Ti Top Island , the Floating Villages, and the Pearl Farm. vietnam trip quora

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  • Hue : The former imperial capital of Vietnam and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It preserves the legacy of the Nguyen Dynasty, which ruled Vietnam from 1802 to 1945. It has many historical and cultural attractions that showcase the royal and feudal life of Vietnam, such as the Imperial City, the Thien Mu Pagoda , the Tombs of the Emperors, and the Perfume River. It also has a distinctive cuisine that is influenced by the royal and Buddhist traditions, such as bun bo hue, banh beo, banh khoai, and che. vietnam trip quora
  • Hoi An : A charming town that was once a major trading port in Southeast Asia. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves the architecture and culture of various influences, such as Chinese, Japanese, French, and Vietnamese. It has many attractions that reflect its past and present, such as the Old Town, the Japanese Covered Bridge, the An Bang Beach, the Tra Que Vegetable Village, and the Tailor Shops. It also has a delicious cuisine that is influenced by its maritime and multicultural history, such as cao lau, banh mi , mi quang, and banh xeo.
  • Ho Chi Minh City: The largest and most dynamic city in Vietnam. It is a metropolis that showcases the contrast between tradition and modernity. It has many attractions that reflect its history and culture, such as the Reunification Palace vietnam trip quora
  • Ho Chi Minh City: The largest and most dynamic city in Vietnam. It is a metropolis that showcases the contrast between tradition and modernity. It has many attractions that reflect its history and culture, such as the Reunification Palace, the War Remnants Museum, the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, the Ben Thanh Market, and the Bitexco Financial Tower. It also has a vibrant and diverse culture that can be seen in its nightlife, entertainment, shopping, and festivals. It also has a mouthwatering cuisine that is influenced by its cosmopolitan and colonial past, such as banh cuon, hu tieu, com tam, and che ba mau. vietnam trip quora
  • Mekong Delta: A region that covers the southern part of Vietnam and is where the Mekong River splits into nine branches before reaching the sea. It is a fertile area that produces most of Vietnam’s rice, fruits, and fish. It offers a glimpse of the rural and authentic life of Vietnam, with its lush landscapes, floating markets, coconut islands, pagodas, and bridges. It also offers a variety of activities and experiences, such as boating, cycling, fishing, and visiting farms. It also has a unique cuisine that is influenced by its aquatic and tropical environment, such as banh xeo, banh canh ghe, banh cong, and ca tai tuong chien xu. vietnam trip quora
  • Phu Quoc Island: A tropical island that lies off the coast of Cambodia in the Gulf of Thailand. It is a popular destination for beach lovers and nature lovers. It has many attractions that offer relaxation and adventure, such as the Long Beach, the Phu Quoc National Park, the Dinh Cau Rock Temple, the Phu Quoc Prison Museum, and the Phu Quoc Night Market. It also has a delicious cuisine that is influenced by its maritime and island location, such as bun quay, banh canh ghe, banh tet, and sim wine. vietnam trip quora

How much does it cost to travel in Vietnam?

The answer to this question depends on your travel style and budget. Vietnam is generally considered a cheap destination compared to other countries in Southeast Asia and in the world. However, the cost of traveling in Vietnam can vary depending on your choices of accommodation, transportation, food, activities, and souvenirs. Here are some rough estimates of the average daily expenses for different types of travelers in Vietnam:

  • Backpacker: $15-$25 per day. This includes staying in dorms or cheap guesthouses ($5-$10), eating street food or local restaurants ($3-$5), taking buses or trains ($2-$5), doing free or low-cost activities ($0-$5), and buying souvenirs ($0-$5).
  • Mid-range: $40-$60 per day. This includes staying in mid-range hotels or homestays ($15-$25), eating at decent restaurants or cafes ($10-$15), taking taxis or flights ($5-$10), doing moderate activities ($5-$10), and buying souvenirs ($0-$10).
  • Luxury: $100-$200 per day. This includes staying in luxury hotels or resorts ($50-$100), eating at high-end restaurants or bars ($20-$30), taking private cars or flights ($10-$20), doing expensive activities ($10-$20), and buying souvenirs ($0-$20).

Of course, these are just approximate numbers and you can always find ways to save money or splurge more depending on your preferences. vietnam trip quora

Contact us: Car For Rent Hanoi VietNam https://zalo.me/0986244358

Vietnam is a country that has a lot to offer for travelers who want to experience its culture, history, nature, and cuisine. A Vietnam trip can be a rewarding and unforgettable experience if you plan it well and prepare for it properly. I hope this blog post has answered some of the most common questions about traveling to Vietnam that I found on Quora. If you have any other questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. Thank you for reading! vietnam trip quora

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  2. How to Plan Your First Trip to Vietnam 2024: 7 Easy Steps

    With our knowledge of Vietnam and feedback from our customers, we suggest you visit Hanoi and Halong Bay in the north, Hoi An and Danang in the middle, and Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta in the south on your first trip. 1). Hanoi — the capital city with rich history and local cuisine. Cyclo in the Old Quarter.

  3. 30 Things To Know Before Going To Vietnam

    20. Morning people are at an advantage. Vietnam sleeps early and begins the day quite early. Irrespective of the region, Vietnamese are early risers. Maybe because of the geography or the weather, whatever the reasons are, it means that if you are a morning person, you have more advantage as a traveler.

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    I appreciate any responses and thoughts, especially from folks who have visited both. I have spent plenty of time (months) in both countries. Just one thing to note, Vietnam is cheaper than Thailand. I much prefer the North of Vietnam (well from Hoi An upwards). Thailand is a wonderful country too, so much to explore.

  5. Destination of the week

    IMPORTANT HOLIDAY. If you have the luxury to choose when to visit Vietnam, visit before, during, and after Tet (Lunar New Year). The celebrations are extremely fun, with fireworks, big festivals, lion dancing. And then the day after is when the Vietnamese head to the temples and ask for blessing for the next year.

  6. is it a scam? Urgent advice please

    Urgent advice please. The 'scam' with all of these sites is that she overpaid for a service she could have just got herself from the Vietnamese government for $25 US by getting it from a commercial agent. I have never ever ever heard of a scam where the agent took the money and supplied false documents. Ever.

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  14. I just completed a 10 day backpacking trip in Vietnam. The ...

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    vietnam trip quora Vietnam is a fascinating country that attracts millions of travelers every year. It has a rich culture, history, and natural beauty that