VIETNAM
Travel Guide
BEST TIME TO VISIT VIETNAM
Choosing the time to visit Vietnam can be a bit tricky. The best time to visit really depends on which part of the country you’re staying in. The dry and cool season, between November and April, is ideal for taking cruises in Halong Bay, exploring historical sites in Hanoi, and enjoying beach destinations like Da Nang. However, if you want to see scenic views in northern regions like Sapa, it’s best to visit in the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). During these times, the terraced fields look their best—perfect for hiking and taking pictures!
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USEFUL PHRASES TO KNOW
Get ready for your Vietnam adventure with these essential phrases!
Hello
Xin Chào
Thank You
Cảm On
Sorry
Xin Lỗi
Goodbye
Tạm Biệt
FAQs About Vietnam
Got questions about traveling to Vietnam? Our FAQ section has you covered!
Vietnam is a lovely destination with gorgeous cities. You can explore the streets of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City for an authentic Vietnamese experience, visit Ha Long Bay for its beautiful islands, or enjoy the scenic terraced rice fields in Sapa.
The country is also a great place for people interested in learning about history. It has a rich and complex past that spans thousands of years, with influences from various cultures and periods, including indigenous civilizations, Chinese rule, French colonialism, and the Vietnam War. We particularly liked learning about the French colonization of Vietnam during our visit to Hao Lo Prison in Hanoi.
With delicious food, cheap hotels, and friendly people, Vietnam should be a must-visit for everyone!
Yes, Vietnam is generally a safe place to visit. However, pickpocketing does still happen in crowded areas according to locals, so stay vigilant. Traffic can also be quite hectic, so be careful when crossing streets and use reliable transportation!
In Vietnam, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, major cities, and by younger generations, especially in places like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and tourist spots. But in more rural areas or among older generations, English might be limited.
When packing for Vietnam, consider the climate and activities you’ll be doing. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended for warm and humid weather, especially if you’re visiting during the summer months. Pack comfortable, casual outfits such as t-shirts, shorts, and lightweight dresses. For cooler weather in northern regions during winter, bring a light jacket or sweater. Don’t forget a rain jacket or umbrella for the rainy season and sturdy walking shoes. Also, pack modest clothing if you plan to visit temples or religious sites.
Yes, Vietnam has reliable internet service, especially in major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and tourist areas. Most hotels, cafes, restaurants, and public spaces offer free Wi-Fi, and the internet speed is generally fast enough for streaming, browsing, and remote work. Mobile data is also affordable and widely available, with 4G coverage in most areas. However, in more rural or remote regions, internet access may be slower or less consistent, so it’s a good idea to plan accordingly if you’re traveling to those places.
Getting around in Vietnam is relatively easy with several transportation options available:
Motorbike: Motorbikes are the most common way to get around, especially in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. You can rent one or use ride-hailing apps like Grab for motorbike taxis.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available in cities, and companies like Mai Linh and Vinasun are known for their reliability. Ensure the meter is used or negotiate a fare beforehand.
Public Buses: Major cities have public buses that are affordable but can be tricky for non-locals due to language barriers.
Cyclo (Rickshaw): These are fun for short rides in tourist areas, though they are more for sightseeing than regular transportation.
Domestic Flights: For long distances, such as from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, domestic flights are a quick option with several budget airlines.
Trains: Vietnam’s train network runs along the coast and is a scenic way to travel between major cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City.
Boats: In areas like the Mekong Delta and Ha Long Bay, boat rides are a popular way to get around.
The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese dong, abbreviated as VND. Vietnam is largely a cash-based society, though credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and shops in larger cities and tourist areas. Keep in mind that the exchange rate often means carrying a significant number of notes, as 1 USD is equivalent to thousands of VND.