Vietnam: What you need to know before you travel
What are the most important things to consider before a Vietnam vacation? What should you pack for your tour? What currency is accepted in the country? Find answers to all your questions in our Vietnam travel guide.
Vietnam is a youthful nation fueled by the desire for modernization and commercialization while protective of its traditional past. It is the contrasting characteristics of the country, from its historical past to its modern developments and diverse landscapes and people that will leave a lasting impression.
Even if your trip coincides with the best time of year to visit Vietnam, packing for your Vietnam tours is not straightforward, and it often depends on where you plan to go. Your Travel Consultant is happy to answer all your questions.
Larger cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi offer upscale bars and restaurants, so be sure to pack some clothes and shoes for a nice evening out so you can easily enjoy a bit of both big city life as well as remote, untouched destinations on Vietnam holidays.
If you are wondering is Vietnam safe to travel in, we can assure you that you can explore all of the country safely and comfortably with some basic precautions. It’s not advisable to bring your flashy jewelry or expensive cell phones for your Vietnam tour. You will find few restrictions on the dress code in the bustling metros, but as you move further away you will notice that people are dressed more traditionally.
Health information
It is advisable to visit your doctor at least six months before you travel as some vaccinations may take time. Don’t forget to get your regular shots, such as typhoid, measles and Hepatitis. Also carry mosquito repellent no matter where you travel in Southeast Asia.
There are excellent hospitals in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, and health care centers in all provinces, but facilities are limited and there is a lack of medicines. Health insurance should ideally also include cover for emergency repatriation by air. Upfront cash is expected for services rendered.
Please avoid drinking water from outside in Vietnam, even if it is sealed and of a good make. Avoid eating vegetable salads, fried foods, and beverages from the many roadside vendors frequently seen everywhere, unless you are on specific Vietnam food tours with us that we have already hygiene vetted. Your tour escort and drivers will know reputable restaurants in Vietnam, and all of your hotels with restaurants will be a good choice for dining. When ordering for food, feel free to request non-spicy.
Currency and cards
The official currency in the country is the Dong, (d or VND). Vietnam’s unofficial currency is the US$ Dollar. Carrying a suitable amount of petty change enough for tips, in markets and for transport is recommended– about 50 UK Pounds or 70 USD is sufficient. Besides US Dollar, British Pound and Euro, many other currencies can be exchanged but some smaller destination currencies may have difficulty.
Watch out when dealing with currency – 10,000 and 100,000 notes look the same as 50,000 and 500,000 rupee notes.
Shopping
Vietnam has very strict regulations about exporting real antiques. Most “antique” and art pieces sold to tourists are fake or copies of the original. As you travel in Vietnam, be careful and check your sources for certificates if they claim to sell you an original or antique piece.
Our destination experts are happy to share their personal travel tips during your free consultation and help you plan your private Vietnam tours. Contact us for your personalized and obligation-free itinerary.
Popular Trips to Vietnam
This Southeast Asia tour offers the ideal introduction to the most popular destinations in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. Beginning in Luang Prabang, experience the Buddhist heritage of Laos with local experts as you witness the morning ‘almsgiving ritual’, and visit the mysterious Pak Ou caves with its thousands of Buddha figures. In Vietnam, discover ancient…
Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Vietnam and Cambodia on this customizable vacation. Learn about Vietnam’s history in Hanoi, enjoy a scenic cruise in Halong Bay, stroll through quaint border towns, and marvel at the Oriental and colonial architecture of Hoi An. More historical and cultural gems await you across the border in Cambodia….
Discover Southeast Asia as you cruise from Vietnam to Cambodia and experience life along the Mekong. Start your journey from vibrant Ho Chi Minh City and discover its fascinating culture and heritage on an invigorating walking tour. Later, head to My Tho, the starting point of your cruise. Every day aboard the cruise is an…
Uncover the beauty of Vietnam’s landscapes and heritage on this customized Vietnam trip from the north to the south of the country. Beginning your vacation in the ancient city of Hanoi, visit its Old Quarters, markets, and famous landmarks such as the Temple of Literature. Explore the stunning Halong Bay on an overnight cruise, gliding…
Sample the culinary delights of Vietnam on this 12-day tour around the country. From eating your way through Hanoi’s night markets to cruising down the UNESCO-listed Halong Bay, this tour lets you immerse yourself in the region’s rich culture and cuisine. Get a taste of Hue’s stellar dishes such as Banh Uot, mussel rice and…
Sample the ancient heritage of Southeast Asia! From an Angkor Wat trip in Cambodia to street food tours in Hanoi, cultural Hoi An, and modern Ho Chi Minh City, experience the beauty and the bounty of Vietnam and Cambodia. Our destination experts will be happy to recommend more destinations and excursions in Southeast Asia that…
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Best Places To Visit
Best Time To Visit
Vietnam has a tropical climate and the temperatures range between 22 ̊C and 30 ̊C. Whether you are exploring Hoi An, discovering the artisans of Hanoi, traveling in the mountains of Sa Pa, sunbathing on Da Nang, Phu Quoc or Nha Trang’s beaches, or taking a street food tour in Ho Chi Minh City, there is no bad time to visit. Here’s an overview on the best time for Vietnam holidays.
Things To Do
Traveler’s often wonder ‘What are the best destinations to visit in Vietnam?’, ‘What is the best Vietnam travel guide?’ or ‘What can you do in Vietnam?’ From Old Town in Hanoi, street food in Saigon, and Hue to the Mekong Delta in southern Vietnam and Cambodia – experience the best of the culture and landscapes on your Vietnam holidays with us. Discover our top ten Vietnam attractions.
Safety
How safe is it to travel in Vietnam? Is Vietnam safe to travel in for a foreigner from the West? What are things that you should keep in mind while traveling in destinations such as Hoi An, Halong Bay, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City? Vietnam is a developing nation with its own rules and regulations. Here is some of the most up-to-date travel advice from our experts to ensure seamless and stress-free Vietnam holidays.
From the Blog
Beautiful Vietnam is brimming with rich culture and heritage and Vietnam festivals in 2019 are going to be celebrated with aplomb, just like every year. There’s nothing quite like the lively, jovial atmosphere of a traditional celebration.
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