Vietnam is a Southeast Asian country that is known for its breathtaking landscapes, delicious cuisine, and vibrant culture. It is the perfect destination for travelers looking to explore and experience a new culture. Here are 17 things to know before travelling to Vietnam:
1. Destination Overview of Vietnam:
Vietnam is a Southeast Asian country located on the eastern side of the Indochina Peninsula. It is bordered by China to the north, Laos and Cambodia to the west, and the South China Sea to the east. Vietnam is known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delicious cuisine.
2. Top Activities to do in Vietnam:
• Explore Hanoi, the country’s capital city.
• Visit the ancient city of Hoi An.
• Relax on the beaches of Nha Trang.
• Trek through the mountains of Sapa.
• Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels.
• Visit the picturesque Halong Bay.
• Take a cruise on the Mekong Delta.
• Visit the ancient temples of My Son.
• Try the local cuisine.
• Go shopping in Ho Chi Minh City.
3. Best Places To Stay in Vietnam:
• Luxury Places: InterContinental Hanoi Westlake, The Nam Hai Hoi An, La Siesta Resort & Spa
• Mid Range: Thien Ngoc Hotel & Resort, Hoi An Ancient House Resort & Spa, Muong Thanh Luxury Da Nang
• Budget Friendly: Hanoi Star City Hotel, The Kieu Giang Hotel, Song Hoai Hotel
4. How to Travel to Vietnam?:
The main international airports in Vietnam are Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport, Ho Chi Minh City Tan Son Nhat International Airport, and Da Nang International Airport. Domestic flights are available to other cities in Vietnam, including Da Lat, Nha Trang, and Hue. There are also trains, buses, and taxis available for travel within the country.
5. Must Try Local Food and Drink in Vietnam:
• Pho (Vietnamese noodle soup)
• Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich)
• Bun Cha (Grilled pork and noodles)
• Banh Xeo (Vietnamese crepe)
• Cao Lau (Hoi An noodles)
• Goi Cuon (Fresh spring rolls)
• Nem Ran (Fried spring rolls)
• Che (Vietnamese sweet soup)
• Ca Phe Sua Da (Vietnamese iced coffee)
• Ruou Gao (Vietnamese rice wine)
6. Best Places to Eat in Vietnam:
• Pho 24 (Hanoi): Pho 24 is a popular chain restaurant that serves delicious pho.
• Com Chay Nang Tam (Hanoi): This vegetarian restaurant serves a variety of delicious dishes.
• Bun Bo Nam Bo (Ho Chi Minh City): This restaurant serves traditional beef noodle soup.
• Cuc Gach Quan (Ho Chi Minh City): This restaurant serves traditional Vietnamese cuisine.
• Quán Ăn Ngon (Hoi An): This restaurant serves delicious seafood dishes.
7. Weather and Climate:
The climate in Vietnam varies depending on the region. The north is generally cooler, while the south is hotter and more humid. The best time to visit Vietnam is from November to April, when the weather is cooler and dry. It is best to avoid the months of May to October, as this is the rainy season.
8. Local Customs and Etiquette in Vietnam:
• It is important to dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or other religious sites.
• It is considered rude to point with your finger. Instead, use your whole hand to gesture.
• Remove your shoes before entering a home or temple.
• It is polite to greet people with a slight bow.
• When giving and receiving items, it is polite to use both hands.
9. Popular Scams in Vietnam:
• Taxi scams: Be sure to use reputable taxi companies and ask the driver to use the meter.
• Currency scams: Be aware of counterfeit money and exchange only at reputable money changers.
• Fake goods: Be wary of vendors selling fake goods, such as watches and designer bags.
• Pickpocketing: Be aware of your belongings when in crowded areas.
10. Suggested Trip Duration:
A two-week trip to Vietnam is recommended for first-time travelers. This will give you enough time to explore the major cities and attractions in the country.
11. Total Estimated Budget Per Person:
The estimated budget per person for a two-week trip to Vietnam is $1,000 – $1,500 USD. This includes accommodation, food, activities, and transportation.
12. NearBy Cities:
• Ho Chi Minh City (220 km)
• Hue (600 km)
• Hanoi (800 km)
• Sapa (350 km)
• Nha Trang (450 km)
• Da Lat (350 km)
13. Local Language and Communication in Vietnam:
The official language of Vietnam is Vietnamese. English is not widely spoken, but there are English-speaking guides available at tourist attractions. It is also helpful to learn some basic Vietnamese phrases, such as hello (xin chào) and thank you (cảm ơn).
14. Accepted Currency and Money:
The official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). US Dollars and Euros are also accepted at some places. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but it is best to carry cash for smaller purchases. Tipping is not expected, but it is appreciated.
15. Health and Medical Information:
It is recommended to get vaccinated against hepatitis A and typhoid before travelling to Vietnam. It is also recommended to bring a first aid kit and basic medications. Medical care is available in major cities, but it is best to have travel insurance in case of an emergency.
16. Packing Tips for Vietnam:
• Comfortable, lightweight clothing
• Sun protection, such as hats and sunglasses
• A good pair of walking shoes
• A waterproof jacket
• Mosquito repellent
• A small daypack
17. To sum up:
Vietnam is a Southeast Asian country that is known for its breathtaking landscapes, delicious cuisine, and vibrant culture. It is the perfect destination for travelers looking to explore and experience a new culture. Before travelling to Vietnam, it is important to know the destination overview, top activities, best places to stay, how to travel, local food and drink, best places to eat, weather and climate, local customs and etiquette, popular scams, suggested trip duration, total estimated budget per person, nearby cities, local language and communication, accepted currency and money, health and medical information, and packing tips.