10 Essential Travel Tips for Vietnam You Must Know
Vietnam, with its rich culture, natural beauty, and friendly locals, is one of the most popular travel destinations in Southeast Asia. If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, you’ll want to make the most of your experience while staying safe, healthy, and respectful of local customs. Here are ten essential travel tips to guide you through this unique and fascinating country.
1. Choose the Right Time to Visit
Vietnam’s climate varies greatly from north to south, with monsoons, typhoons, and scorching heatwaves affecting different regions throughout the year. The best time to visit is usually from September to April when temperatures are milder and rainfall is less frequent. However, the peak tourist season of December and January can be crowded and expensive, so plan accordingly.
2. Get Your Visa in Advance
Most visitors to Vietnam require a visa to enter the country, which can be obtained online or through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate. It’s best to apply at least one month in advance to avoid last-minute delays or complications. Make sure you have a valid passport with at least six months’ validity and enough blank pages for the visa stamp.
3. Learn Some Basic Vietnamese Phrases
While many Vietnamese people speak English or French, it’s always helpful to know a few basic phrases to communicate with locals and show your respect for their language and culture. Learn how to say hello, thank you, please, sorry, and goodbye, as well as some common food and drink items, such as pho (noodle soup), bia (beer), and cà phê (coffee).
4. Dress Appropriately and Respectfully
Vietnam is a conservative society where modesty and cleanliness are highly valued. Avoid wearing revealing or provocative clothing, especially when visiting temples or other religious sites. Cover your shoulders, knees, and midriff, and remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a sacred space. Keep in mind that Vietnam can be very hot and humid, so choose breathable, lightweight, and quick-drying fabrics.
5. Use Reliable Transportation
Vietnam has a well-developed network of buses, taxis, motorbikes, and trains, but not all of them are safe or reliable. Be cautious when choosing a mode of transportation, especially at night or in rural areas. Use reputable companies or apps, such as Grab or GoJek, to hail a ride or book a tour. Wear a helmet if riding a motorbike and be prepared for chaotic traffic.
6. Try Street Food, But Be Careful
Vietnam is renowned for its delicious and affordable street food, but it’s also infamous for its food-borne illnesses and hygiene issues. To avoid getting sick, stick to places that are busy, clean, and well-cooked. Look for stalls with high turnover and fresh ingredients, and avoid raw or undercooked meat, shellfish, or vegetables. Drink bottled water or bring your own refillable bottle and use a purifier or filter if possible.
7. Bargain, but with Respect
Vietnam is a bargain hunter’s paradise, with endless markets, shops, and vendors selling everything from souvenirs to tailored suits. However, haggling can be a delicate art that requires patience, humor, and cultural sensitivity. Start by asking for the price and then counter with a reasonable offer that reflects the quality, quantity, and demand of the item. Avoid getting too aggressive, confrontational, or disrespectful, and always smile and thank the seller for their time.
8. Explore Beyond the Tourist Spots
While places like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Halong Bay, and Hoi An are must-sees for most visitors, Vietnam has much more to offer off the beaten track. Consider exploring the mountains, beaches, islands, and villages that are less crowded and more authentic. Join a homestay or a volunteer program to immerse yourself in the local lifestyle and support sustainable tourism.
9. Respect the Culture and Customs
Vietnam has a complex and diverse culture that has been shaped by its history, religion, language, and geography. Be respectful of the local customs and traditions, such as bowing, gift-giving, and family values. Understand the significance of important events and holidays, such as Tet (Lunar New Year), Liberation Day, and Reunification Day. Do not take photos or touch objects without permission and refrain from criticizing or comparing Vietnam to other countries.
10. Stay Safe and Take Care of Yourself
Vietnam is generally a safe and welcoming country, but like any other place, it has its share of risks and challenges. Be aware of the common scams, such as overcharging, pickpocketing, or fake tour guides. Keep your valuables secure and your passport and cash in different places. Stay hydrated, protected, and rested by drinking plenty of water, using sunscreen, and getting enough sleep. Lastly, stay curious, open-minded, and respectful, and you’ll have an unforgettable experience in Vietnam.
The Bottom Line
Traveling to Vietnam can be an exciting and enriching adventure if you’re well-prepared, informed, and respectful. Follow these ten essential tips to make the most of your trip and leave a positive impression on the people and places you encounter. Happy travels!
