Welcome to Vietnam, a country known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and mouthwatering street food. Whether you dream of cruising the emerald waters of Halong Bay, exploring the ancient streets of Hanoi, or soaking up the sun on the beaches of Da Nang, there’s something for every type of traveler. But before you hop on that plane, there are a few things to know before traveling to Vietnam to ensure a smooth and unforgettable adventure.
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Before one embarks on a journey to Vietnam, one major thing they have to know is the visa requirements. The rules do vary, depending on nationality or length of stay. A number of visitors can get entry into the country with visa exemption for either 15 or 30 days but for most, visa applications remain indispensable.
You can get an e-visa online that's valid for up to 90 days, which is super convenient. You could also go for a visa on arrival. Whichever you choose, be certain you have your paperwork right! Here's what Vietnam must know: overstay your visa, and you are going to be in for fines, delays, and maybe some problems exiting the country. Better still, avoid that headache by confirming from a few official sources, say, the Vietnam Immigration Department, for the latest information on requirements.
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In Vietnam, you will be making use of the Vietnamese Dong-VND, and it is admittedly peculiar to handle such large numbers, but you get used to it. 1 USD ≈ 23,000 VND. Cash is king here, especially when shopping in local markets or smaller towns. Always have small denominations of VND on hand, as this does make transactions much easier.
It's quite easy to find an ATM in the cities of Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang. Just be careful with scams from ATMs, and try to use only reputable banks such as Vietcombank or BIDV. Most major restaurants and hotels can accept credit cards, but this is far less common in rural areas, so you should always have enough cash on you wherever you go.
Tip: Beware of the fees that are charged from its usage and avoid withdrawing money from any secluded ATMs just to avoid frauds or scams.
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One of the most interesting pieces of advice on this list of guests' suggestions in Vietnam is that under all circumstances, guests should not travel to countries without travel insurance. Even made for adventure, here too, accidents or illnesses can happen at the most unexpected times, and your luggage gets stolen or lost. Ensure that your trip includes insurance against medical exigencies, cancellation of a trip, or loss of personal belongings.
Companies like the providers at World Nomads or Allianz offer fantastic, solid comprehensive coverage that would put your mind at ease while you make the most of your trip to Vietnam without being daunted by a potential list of things that may go wrong.
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Since Vietnam is very long and thin, transportation between its major centers Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City is sometimes slow to cover. Fortunately, internal flights remain very affordable and extremely frequent; thus, they are the quickest means of covering great distances. For the budget traveler, some generally dependable options include Vietnam Airlines, VietJet, and Bamboo Airways.
If scenic travel is your preference, then the train system in Vietnam provides idyllic views of the countryside. The north-to-south journey can be very well availed through the Reunification Express; however, it needs to be mentioned that such journeys by train are slower and less comfortable compared to flying. Sleeper buses represent another option for budget travel, viable but less luxurious.
Tip: Flight and train tickets should be booked in advance during the rainy season and high tourist traveling time to make sure they are available and at a better price.
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Once in the cities or towns, there are enough options for getting around. Taxis are aplenty, but one needs to make sure they use one of the better companies such as Mai Linh or Vinasun to avoid overcharging. Always insist on using the meter or negotiate a fair price beforehand.
Meanwhile, motorbike taxis or rented bikes may be the means to see more of the locality. However, the traffic in cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City is quite chaotic, so only rent a motorbike if you feel confident on the road.
Many citizens in Vietnam use Grab for convenience and ease, as it is one of the most popular ride-hailing apps throughout Southeast Asia. It's perceived as safe and inexpensive, with prices being fixed, so no haggling!
Tip: When hailing a Grab or taxi, at least ensure that the driver appears as though he knows where he is taking you, and when at all possible avoid motorbike rides that do not outfit you in safety gear.
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When one travels towards a country as culturally enlightened as Vietnam, there comes the main reason one should give respect to the local customs and traditions. One of the most leading things to know before traveling to Vietnam is that modesty is a virtue, especially when one is visiting religious sites. Dress conservatively when you visit temples-cover your shoulders and knees-and take off your shoes before entering.
It is also good etiquette that permission is asked of people before photographs are taken, especially in rural areas or even at local markets. The people are very friendly and hospitable, yet it is always polite to ask before taking a snap of someone's daily life.
Whether you are exploring the local markets in a bustling metropolis such as Ho Chi Minh City or the smaller towns along the Mekong Delta, it will not take you very long to realize that haggling is part of the shopping experience. Haggling can be quite enjoyable and is expected; just be respectful about it. Start with a price lower than what you're willing to pay, but keep it friendly. The Vietnamese appreciate haggling but not an obscene offer.
Tip: A smile does wonders. Take a light-hearted but cordial approach and often enough you get good deals while making a local contact!
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The most well-known thing about Vietnam is its street food, but if you are a tourist, you want to be careful with the places that you eat at. Go to busy, popular food stalls where turnover is high. This means that food is fresh and safe to eat. Try iconic dishes such as pho and banh mi, but always listen to your instincts something doesn't look quite right, it's just best you skip over it.
Another thing to know beforehand: don't drink tap water while going to Vietnam. Always drink bottled water; if you do, make sure the seal is intact. In some rural areas, even the ice is dodgy, so when in doubt, ask for drinks without ice.
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While Vietnam,m in general,l is a safe destination to travel to, like most tourist destinations, there are a few scams to look out for. Overcharging by taxis is common, so your best option is to use ride-hailing apps like Grab or stick with reputable taxi companies like Mai Linh and Vinasun. Overly aggressive street vendors selling fake goods, as well as "deals" that just seem too good to be true, should also be looked out for.
Tip: Always count your change when conducting cash transactions. Tourists can be overcharged, especially in areas with more tourists, so continue being watchful.
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While traveling, learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases can go a long way in making your trip more enjoyable. While most tourist areas will have someone who speaks English, using the local phrases will help you connect with people and be respectful of the culture. Here is a list of a few Vietnam must know phrases to get you started:
With these in your pocket, you’ll navigate Vietnam with a smile!
With all these Vietnam travel tips, you are about to embark on an adventure that is going to change your life. From the bustling energy of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to the natural beauty of Nha Trang and the lower region of the Mekong Delta-you're prepared for something unforgettable. Just make sure to get your travel insurance, pack accordingly in ever-changing weather, and respect the culture. From the tastes of Vietnamese street food to the comfort of a sleeper bus, and motorbike travels through main streets, Vietnam is a country where meaningful and exciting experiences should not lack. Safe travels, and enjoy every moment!
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