Vietnam
“A land of staggering natural beauty and cultural complexities, of dynamic megacities and hill-tribe villages, Vietnam is both exotic and compelling.” – Lonely Planet
Basic Info
Drinking water: Not safe to drink tap water
Plugs: Type A, C and F (See photo below)
Covid Updates
Not open for international travel
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.
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.**
Vaccinations
None
**Assuming you are current on routine vaccinations. Always check with your government for the most accurate and up to date information on required vaccinations specific to your home country**
Safety
Exercise Normal Precautions
**Always check with your government for the most accurate and up to date information on safety**
Language
Official Languages: Vietnamese
Hello: Xin Chào (sin chow)
Thank-you: Cảm Ơn (gam uun)
Yes: Da (yah) No: Không (comb)
When to go
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 January – April is 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.
Responsible Travel
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
