Vietnam Travel Guide
Deciding to travel Vietnam is one of the best decisions you’ll make and one of the most fun experiences you’ll have. There are more or less only two routes that travelers can take (North to South or South to North) so you end up making lots of friends along the way that you keep running into. The tourist trail is well worn making it fairly easy and comfortable to get around and with many English speakers. Eat your way through this awesome country learning about the war, lounging on the beach, trekking through rice terraces and kayaking amongst the most famous karsts in the world along the way.
Things to Consider
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Best time to travel Vietnam
The weather varies depending on what part of the country you go to
The North: Spring (March – May) and fall (September – November) are generally considered the best time to go. the summer months get very hot and the winter months are very wet.
Central Vietnam: Da Nang area experiences heavy rains September – December (particularly in Oct/Nov) with the hotter temps coming between May and August.
The South: Stays warm most of the year but generally the best time is considered to be January – April as it’s the driest.
Peak season throughout the country is June – July because of school holidays for Vietnam but also much of the northern hemisphere while low season is September – October.
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Covid-19 Updates
Updated July 17: Borders are still closed to foreign nationals unless traveling for official or diplomatic reasons. Those entering must undergo medical checks and a 14 day quarantine.
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Money
Official currency: ₫ Vietnamese Dong
Budget: Like the rest of SE Asia Vietnam is another great budget destination. Backpackers can get away with spending very little and those on a less strict budget will be able to enjoy a fairly low cost trip regardless. Hostels generally range from $5-$10 USD and a beer at a bar will run you less than $1.50 USD.
Credit cards: Larger restaurants and hotels will take cards. Smaller purchases should be done in cash.
Where to go
Suggested itineraries for traveling Vietnam
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Visas
24 countries can enter visa free
E-Visas available for 30 day single entry visits for 81 countries, including the United States, EU citizens, Aus and NZ and many South American countries
**Always check with your government for the most up to date information on visa requirements.**
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Vaccines
None
**Recommendations are given assuming you are up to date on routine vaccinations. Always check with your government for the most accurate and up to date information on required vaccinations for COUNTRY travel specific to your country**
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Safety
Exercise Normal Precautions
**Always check with your government for the most accurate and up to date information on safety**
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Responsible Tourism
Know before you go so you can be the most respectful and responsible visitor possible
Things to keep in mind when traveling Vietnam:
- There is a large problem with trash and pollution in Halong Bay. Make sure you choose a responsible tour operator
- Support businesses (hotels, restaurants etc.) that take social responsibility whether it be through training programs or pledges against the child sex tourism industry. Read more below
Basic Info
Capital: Hanoi
Official Languages: Vietnamese
Plugs: Generally Type A which is standard for most countries in the Americas (but the two pronged version so laptops and other devices with three prongs will still need an adapter). two pronged round European plugs are also available but less common.
