what to know when traveling to vietnam Vietnam is a fascinating and diverse country that offers a lot of attractions and experiences for travelers. Whether you are interested in exploring its rich culture and history, enjoying its stunning natural beauty and wildlife, tasting its delicious cuisine and coffee, or having some fun and adventure, Vietnam has something for you. However, traveling to Vietnam can also be challenging and confusing, especially if you are not familiar with its customs and conditions. To help you prepare for your trip and avoid some common pitfalls, here are some things that you should know when traveling to Vietnam.
When is the best time to travel to Vietnam? what to know when traveling to vietnam
Vietnam has a tropical climate with four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. However, the weather can vary greatly depending on the region and the altitude. Generally speaking, the best time to travel to Vietnam is from November to April, when the weather is dry and mild throughout the country. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so you can expect higher prices and more crowds. If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy some discounts, you can also travel to Vietnam during the low season, from May to October, when the weather is wetter and hotter, but still pleasant in some areas. Here are some general guidelines for each region:
- Northern Vietnam: experiences a cool winter from November to February, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. This is a good time to visit Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, and other attractions in the north. However, it can also get foggy and misty in some places, affecting the visibility and scenery. The spring from March to April is warmer and more colorful, with flowers blooming and festivals happening. The summer from May to October is hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C. This is also the rainy season, with frequent showers and storms. However, this is also a good time to visit some mountainous areas like Ha Giang or Ba Be, where the weather is cooler and the landscapes are greener. what to know when traveling to vietnam
- Central Vietnam: experiences a hot and dry weather from January to August, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. This is a good time to visit Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An, Nha Trang, and other attractions in the central coast. However, it can also get very hot and sunny in some places, so make sure to wear sunscreen and stay hydrated. The autumn from September to December is cooler and wetter, with frequent rains and floods. This is also the typhoon season, which can cause some disruptions and damages. However, this is also a good time to visit some inland areas like Dalat or Kon Tum, where the weather is milder and the flowers are blooming. what to know when traveling to vietnam
- Southern Vietnam: boasts a full tropical climate, with only two defined seasons: wet and dry. The dry season from November to April is the best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc Island, and other attractions in the south. The weather is sunny and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so you can expect higher prices and more crowds. The wet season from May to October is hotter and rainier, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C. This is also the low tourist season, so you can enjoy some discounts and fewer crowds. However, the rains can be heavy and unpredictable, affecting your travel plans and activities. what to know when traveling to vietnam
What are the visa requirements for Vietnam?
Depending on your nationality and the purpose and duration of your visit, you may need a visa to enter Vietnam. There are different types of visas available for travelers, such as e-visa, visa on arrival, or visa at the embassy or consulate. Here are some general guidelines for each option:
- E-visa: This is an electronic visa that you can apply online through the official website of the Vietnam Immigration Department1. You need to fill out an online application form with your personal and travel information, upload a passport photo and a passport data page in .jpg format, and pay a fee of 25 USD with your credit card or PayPal account. You will receive your e-visa by email within 3 working days, and you need to print it out and bring it with you when you travel to Vietnam. The e-visa is valid for 30 days and allows single entry. You can enter Vietnam through any of the 33 designated ports of entry, including 8 international airports, 16 land border crossings, and 9 seaports1. The e-visa is available for citizens of 80 countries, which you can check on the website1. what to know when traveling to vietnam
- Visa on arrival: This is a visa that you can get upon your arrival at one of the international airports in Vietnam, such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, or Nha Trang. To get a visa on arrival, you need to apply online through a reputable and reliable website that offers online visa services for Vietnam, such as Vietnam Visa, Vietnam Evisa, or Vietnam Visa Online. You need to fill out an online application form with your personal and travel information, and pay a service fee with your credit card or PayPal account. You will receive a visa approval letter by email within a few days or hours, and you need to print it out and bring it with you when you travel to Vietnam. You also need to prepare two passport photos, a completed entry-exit form, and a stamping fee in cash (USD or VND) at the airport. You can choose the duration and the number of entries for your visa, from 30 days to one year, and from single entry to multiple entries. The visa on arrival is available for citizens of most countries, except for some African and Middle Eastern countries, which you can check on the website2. what to know when traveling to vietnam
- Visa at the embassy or consulate: This is a visa that you can get in advance at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your country. To get a visa at the embassy or consulate, you need to find the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your country on the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Vietnam3. You need to contact the embassy or consulate by phone, email, or in person to check the requirements and procedures for applying for a Vietnam visa. You may need to make an appointment in advance, depending on the embassy or consulate. You need to prepare the required documents for your visa application, such as your original passport with at least six months of validity and two blank pages, a completed and signed visa application form, two passport-sized photos, a return or onward ticket, and a visa fee. The fee varies depending on the type, duration, and number of entries of your visa, and the embassy or consulate you apply at. You can check the fee on the website or by contacting the embassy or consulate. You need to submit your visa application and documents in person or by mail to the embassy or consulate, and wait for a few days or weeks, depending on the processing time and the embassy or consulate you apply at. You will receive your visa by mail or in person from the embassy or consulate. The visa at the embassy or consulate is available for citizens of all countries, and allows you to get your visa in advance, or if you are not eligible for an online visa option. what to know when traveling to vietnam
What are the currency and exchange rate in Vietnam?
The currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND), which is divided into 10 hao and 100 xu. However, these subdivisions are no longer used in practice. The banknotes come in denominations of 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, 100,000, 200,000, and 500,000 VND. The coins come in denominations of 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000 and 5,000 VND. However, these coins are rarely used in circulation. The exchange rate of VND to USD is about 23,000 VND to 1 USD as of November 2021. You can check the current exchange rate on websites like XE or Oanda. what to know when traveling to vietnam
You can exchange your foreign currency to VND at banks, hotels, airports, or authorized money changers. However, you should compare the rates and fees before exchanging, as they may vary from place to place. You should also avoid exchanging money on the street or with unofficial dealers, as they may scam you or give you counterfeit notes. You should also keep your receipt after exchanging money, as you may need it to change back your leftover VND when you leave Vietnam. what to know when traveling to vietnam
You can also use your credit or debit card to withdraw VND from ATMs in Vietnam. However, you should check with your bank before traveling about the fees and limits for international transactions. You should also inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any problems with your card. You should also what to know when traveling to vietnam
What to pack for Vietnam?
Packing for Vietnam can be tricky, as you need to consider the weather, the culture, and the activities that you plan to do. You don’t want to overpack or underpack, and you want to be comfortable and respectful at the same time. Here are some general tips and suggestions on what to pack for Vietnam:
- Choose a suitable bag: Depending on your travel style and preference, you can choose a backpack or a suitcase for your main luggage. However, a backpack may be more convenient and flexible, as you can easily carry it around the busy streets and public transportation of Vietnam. You should also bring a day bag or a crossbody bag for your daily essentials, such as your passport, wallet, phone, camera, water bottle, and sunscreen. Make sure your bags are water-resistant or have rain covers, as Vietnam can be rainy and humid at times. what to know when traveling to vietnam
- Pack light and versatile clothes: Vietnam has a tropical climate with four distinct seasons, but the weather can vary greatly depending on the region and the altitude. Generally speaking, the best time to travel to Vietnam is from November to April, when the weather is dry and mild throughout the country. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so you can expect higher prices and more crowds. If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy some discounts, you can also travel to Vietnam during the low season, from May to October, when the weather is wetter and hotter, but still pleasant in some areas. Here are some general guidelines for each region:
- Northern Vietnam: experiences a cool winter from November to February, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. This is a good time to visit Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, and other attractions in the north. However, it can also get foggy and misty in some places, affecting the visibility and scenery. The spring from March to April is warmer and more colorful, with flowers blooming and festivals happening. The summer from May to October is hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C. This is also the rainy season, with frequent showers and storms. However, this is also a good time to visit some mountainous areas like Ha Giang or Ba Be, where the weather is cooler and the landscapes are greener. For this region, you should pack some warm and waterproof clothes, such as a jacket, a sweater, a scarf, and a raincoat. You should also pack some light and breathable clothes, such as t-shirts, shorts, and dresses. You should also pack some hiking shoes and socks if you plan to trek in the mountains. what to know when traveling to vietnam
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- Central Vietnam: experiences a hot and dry weather from January to August, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. This is a good time to visit Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An, Nha Trang, and other attractions in the central coast. However, it can also get very hot and sunny in some places, so make sure to wear sunscreen and stay hydrated. The autumn from September to December is cooler and wetter, with frequent rains and floods. This is also the typhoon season, which can cause some disruptions and damages. However, this is also a good time to visit some inland areas like Dalat or Kon Tum, where the weather is milder and the flowers are blooming. For this region, you should pack some light and comfortable clothes, such as t-shirts, shorts, skirts, and dresses. You should also pack some swimwear and beachwear if you plan to enjoy the sea and the sand. You should also pack some waterproof clothes, such as a raincoat or a poncho, in case of rain or flood. what to know when traveling to vietnam
- Southern Vietnam: boasts a full tropical climate, with only two defined seasons: wet and dry. The dry season from November to April is the best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc Island, and other attractions in the south. The weather is sunny and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so you can expect higher prices and more crowds. The wet season from May to October is hotter and rainier, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C. This is also the low tourist season, so you can enjoy some discounts and fewer crowds. However, the rains can be heavy and unpredictable, affecting your travel plans and activities. For this region, you should pack some light and airy clothes, such as t-shirts, shorts, skirts, and dresses. You should also pack some swimwear and beachwear if you plan to enjoy the sea and the sand. You should also pack some waterproof clothes, such as a raincoat or a poncho, in case of rain or flood. what to know when traveling to vietnam
- Pack respectful and modest clothes: Vietnam is a conservative and traditional country, especially when it comes to religion and culture. You should respect the local customs and dress appropriately when you visit religious sites or rural areas. You should cover your shoulders and knees, and avoid wearing anything too revealing or flashy. You can pack some long-sleeved shirts, pants, skirts, or dresses for these occasions. You can also bring a scarf or a shawl to wrap around your shoulders or head if needed. You should also remove your shoes and hat when you enter a temple or a pagoda. what to know when traveling to vietnam
- Pack some accessories and gadgets: Vietnam is a photogenic and fun country, so you may want to capture some memorable moments and share them with your friends and family. You can pack some accessories and gadgets that can enhance your travel experience, such as a smartphone, a camera, a power bank, a universal adapter, and a pair of headphones. You can also pack some sunglasses, a hat, and a reusable water bottle to protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated. You can also pack some books, games, or cards to entertain yourself during long journeys or rainy days. what to know when traveling to vietnam
What to do in Vietnam?
Vietnam is a country that offers a lot of attractions and experiences for travelers. Whether you are interested in exploring its rich culture and history, enjoying its stunning natural beauty and wildlife, tasting its delicious cuisine and coffee, or having some fun and adventure, Vietnam has something for you. However, with so many options and possibilities, it can be hard to decide what to do in Vietnam. To help you plan your itinerary and make the most of your trip, here are some of the best things to do in Vietnam:
- Explore the world’s biggest caves in Phong Nha: If you are looking for an epic and unforgettable adventure, you should not miss the chance to explore the world’s biggest caves in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to hundreds of caves, including Son Doong, the largest cave in the world, which can fit a Boeing 747 inside. You can join a tour to explore some of the caves, such as Phong Nha Cave, Paradise Cave, Dark Cave, or Hang En Cave, and marvel at their spectacular formations, underground rivers, and wildlife. You can also trek through the jungle, kayak on the river, or zipline over the water. Phong Nha is truly a paradise for nature lovers and thrill seekers1. what to know when traveling to vietnam
- Check out Vietnam on a motorbike: One of the most popular and fun ways to travel around Vietnam is by motorbike. You can rent a motorbike or join a guided tour and hit the road to discover the country at your own pace. You can enjoy the freedom and flexibility of choosing your own route and stopping whenever and wherever you want. You can also experience the local culture and scenery more closely and authentically than by bus or train. Some of the best routes for motorbike trips in Vietnam are the Ho Chi Minh Trail, the Hai Van Pass, the Ha Giang Loop, and the Mekong Delta2. what to know when traveling to vietnam
- Learn about the local culture: Vietnam is a country with a rich and diverse culture, influenced by various ethnic groups, religions, and historical periods. You can learn about the local culture by visiting some of the cultural and historical sites, such as the temples, pagodas, museums, and monuments. You can also join some cultural activities, such as watching a water puppet show, a traditional art form that uses puppets controlled by rods under the water to tell stories and legends. You can also learn to cook Vietnamese food, a cuisine that is famous for its balance of flavors, colors, and textures. You can also interact with the local people, who are friendly and hospitable, and learn about their customs and lifestyles3. what to know when traveling to vietnam
- Cruise along the Mekong Delta: The Mekong Delta is a vast region in southern Vietnam, where the Mekong River splits into nine branches and flows into the sea. The delta is known for its fertile land, abundant wildlife, and colorful culture. You can cruise along the Mekong Delta and explore its various attractions, such as the floating markets, where you can buy and sell fruits, vegetables, and other goods on boats. You can also visit some of the islands, villages, and farms, where you can see how the locals live and work. You can also enjoy some of the local specialties, such as coconut candy, honey tea, and elephant ear fish4. what to know when traveling to vietnam
- Sandboard down the sand dunes in Mui Ne: If you are looking for some fun and excitement in Vietnam, you should head to Mui Ne, a coastal town in south-central Vietnam. Mui Ne is famous for its sand dunes, which come in different colors and shapes. You can rent a sandboard or a quad bike and slide or ride down the sand dunes, enjoying the adrenaline rush and the views. You can also watch the sunrise or sunset over the sand dunes, creating a magical scene. Mui Ne is also a popular destination for kitesurfing and windsurfing, thanks to its strong winds and waves. what to know when traveling to vietnam
What to eat in Vietnam?
Vietnam is a country that offers a lot of delicious dishes for travelers. Whether you are a fan of noodles, rice, meat, seafood, or vegetables, you can find something to suit your taste and appetite in Vietnam. Vietnamese cuisine is famous for its balance of flavors, colors, and textures, as well as its use of fresh herbs and spices. You can enjoy the street food, the local specialties, or the fusion dishes in Vietnam. Here are some of the best things to eat in Vietnam: what to know when traveling to vietnam
- Pho: Pho is the national dish of Vietnam, and one of the most popular dishes in the world. It is a noodle soup made with flat rice noodles, broth, herbs, and beef or chicken. The broth is usually infused with star anise, cinnamon, clove, and ginger, giving it a fragrant and flavorful taste. The herbs include cilantro, mint, basil, and bean sprouts, adding freshness and crunch to the dish. You can also add some lime juice and chili sauce to adjust the sourness and spiciness to your liking. Pho is usually eaten for breakfast or lunch, but you can find it anytime and anywhere in Vietnam1. what to know when traveling to vietnam
- Banh mi: Banh mi is a sandwich that combines the French baguette with Vietnamese ingredients and flavors. The baguette is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and filled with various fillings such as pate, ham, grilled pork, meatballs, tofu, eggs, cheese, or vegetables. The sandwich is also topped with pickled carrots and daikon radish, cucumber slices, cilantro leaves, mayonnaise, chili sauce, and soy sauce. Banh mi is a cheap and convenient snack that you can find on almost every street corner in Vietnam2. what to know when traveling to vietnam
- Com tam: Com tam is a dish made with broken rice grains that are cooked until fluffy and tender. The rice is served with a grilled pork chop marinated with honey and fish sauce, a fried egg, a slice of steamed pork cake, and some shredded pork skin. The dish is also accompanied by a bowl of fish sauce mixed with sugar, vinegar, garlic, and chili, and a plate of fresh vegetables and herbs. Com tam is a hearty and satisfying meal that originated in southern Vietnam, but now can be found all over the country3. what to know when traveling to vietnam
- Bun cha: Bun cha is a dish that consists of grilled pork patties and slices served in a bowl of sweet and tangy fish sauce. The dish is also served with a plate of rice noodles, fresh herbs, lettuce leaves, and pickled vegetables. To eat bun cha, you dip the noodles and herbs into the sauce, and wrap the pork with lettuce leaves. You can also add some garlic, chili, and lime juice to enhance the flavor. Bun cha is a specialty of Hanoi, where it is usually eaten for lunch. what to know when traveling to vietnam
- Banh xeo: Banh xeo is a crispy crepe made with rice flour, turmeric powder, coconut milk, and water. The crepe is filled with pork, shrimp, bean sprouts, and green onions, and fried until golden and crunchy. The crepe is then cut into pieces and wrapped with lettuce leaves, herbs, and rice paper. The wrap is then dipped into a sauce made with fish sauce, sugar, lime juice, garlic, and chili. Banh xeo is a delicious and fun dish that originated in central Vietnam, but now can be found in many regions with different variations. what to know when traveling to vietnam
What to drink in Vietnam?
Vietnam is a country that offers a lot of refreshing and tasty drinks for travelers. Whether you are a fan of coffee, tea, juice, or alcohol, you can find something to quench your thirst and please your palate in Vietnam. Vietnamese drinks are often made with fresh and natural ingredients, such as fruits, herbs, and spices. You can enjoy the street drinks, the local specialties, or the fusion drinks in Vietnam. Here are some of the best things to drink in Vietnam: what to know when traveling to vietnam
- Ca phe sua da: Ca phe sua da is the most popular coffee drink in Vietnam, and one of the most unique in the world. It is made with strong and bitter coffee brewed with a metal filter, mixed with sweetened condensed milk, and poured over ice. The result is a creamy and refreshing drink that can keep you awake and energized. You can find ca phe sua da on almost every street corner in Vietnam, served by vendors or cafes. You can also try other variations of coffee drinks in Vietnam, such as ca phe trung (egg coffee), ca phe cot dua (coconut coffee), or ca phe sua chua (yogurt coffee)1. what to know when traveling to vietnam
- Tra (tea): Tea is another popular drink in Vietnam, and a very important part of the culture and tradition. Tea is often served as a gesture of hospitality and friendship, as well as a way of relaxing and socializing. Tea is usually brewed with loose leaves and hot water in a teapot or a thermos flask, and served in small cups without milk or sugar. The most common types of tea in Vietnam are green tea, jasmine tea, lotus tea, and artichoke tea. You can also find some herbal teas made with ginger, lemongrass, mint, or chrysanthemum2. what to know when traveling to vietnam
- Nuoc mia (sugar cane juice): Sugar cane juice is a refreshing and energizing drink that is made by squeezing fresh sugar cane stalks through a machine. The juice is then poured over ice and sometimes mixed with some lime juice or kumquat juice. Sugar cane juice is less sweet than it sounds and has a grassy and citrusy flavor. You can find sugar cane juice on many street stalls in Vietnam, especially in the south, where sugar cane is widely grown3. what to know when traveling to vietnam
- Sinh to (fruit smoothie): Fruit smoothie is a delicious and healthy drink that is made with fresh tropical fruits, ice, and sometimes milk or yogurt. You can find a variety of fruits to choose from, such as dragon fruit, jackfruit, custard apple, banana, mango, pineapple, strawberry, and avocado. You can also mix different fruits to create your own flavor. Fruit smoothie is a great way to cool down and enjoy the abundance of fruits in Vietnam. what to know when traveling to vietnam
- Bia (beer): Beer is a popular alcoholic drink in Vietnam, especially among the locals and the young people. Beer is often enjoyed with street food or snacks, such as peanuts, dried squid, or spring rolls. Beer is also a social drink that can help you bond with the locals and make new friends. Vietnam has many local beers that are cheap and refreshing, such as Bia Hoi, Bia Saigon, Bia Huda, Bia 333, and Bia Larue. Vietnam also has some craft beers that are more expensive and flavorful, such as Pasteur Street Brewing, Heart of Darkness, Furbrew, and Winking Seal. what to know when traveling to vietnam
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