When there’s a country as beautiful as Vietnam, it would be a crime not to visit. The natural beauty is breathtaking, the cuisine is mouth-watering and the history found in every town is both compelling and humbling.
Vietnam
Read on to learn more about this incredible country and see if you should visit Vietnam.
Capital Hanoi Official Language Vietnamese
Currency Vietnamese Dong Population 92.7 million (2016)
What kind of traveller is Vietnam suited for?
Vietnam is an extremely diverse destination, and you’ll often find that your own reasons for wanting to visit Vietnam will be completely different to others. For nature lovers, the beaches and famous landmarks such as Ha Long Bay will be the biggest attraction. For the foodies, Vietnam is a destination where your taste buds will be forever grateful. From phở to bánh mì, exploring the local food scene is an absolute delight.
What’s more, Vietnam is incredibly inexpensive which is great for budget travellers, but also a perfect excuse to splash out more on luxury hotels where they are available for a better rate than in other parts of the world.
Halong Bay Vietnam
Do I need a visa for Vietnam?
Most nationalities will need a visa to visit Vietnam, usually obtained by filling out an e-visa form before you travel. Visa legislation is always subject to change, so always check with your embassy before you travel.
When should I visit Vietnam?
There is no simple answer to determine when you should visit Vietnam. It largely depends on where you want to travel, but the following points can help you make your decision.
Southern Vietnam including the Mekong Delta and Ho Chi Minh City:
* The dry season is from December to April.
* The wet season is from May to November. Most downpours are very brief and as the weather is so humid, so this season shouldn’t put you off travelling here.
* The temperature rarely drops below 20°C in the daytime and reaches up to 40°C in the hottest months from March to May.
The central coast of Vietnam including Hue, Hội An, Nha Trang, My Son and Da Nang:
* The wet season is from November to December.
* Typhoons are likely to hit the central coast anytime from August to November.
* The best time to visit this region is in the spring from February to May. Note, June to August is very humid, with temperatures up to 30°C.
Northern Vietnam including Hanoi, Ha Long Bay and Sapa:
* Summer temperatures can reach up to 40°C from May to August, however, summer is also the rainy season, making it very hot, sticky and wet.
* The northernmost mountains offer cooler temperatures between December to February.
"Our absolute highlight from spending 7 months riding our motorbikes 12’000km around Vietnam was the town of Phong Nha. This gorgeous, bucolic village is home to stunning limestone karsts, friendly people and captivating scenery, but it is best known for being the location of the Hang Son Doong, the world’s largest cave. Besides Son Doong, Phong Nha has a collection of other spectacular caves that are accessible to anyone with an adventurous soul. Of everywhere we travelled in the country, Phong Nha is by far the best place.
Get out of the cities. Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang are great and deserve some time to visit, but the beauty of Vietnam lies out in the countryside. The further off-the-beaten-path you get, the more you’ll fall in love with the country." – Jarryd and Alesha, Nomadsaurus.
Sapa, Vietnam
How much time do I need in Vietnam?
You should spend at least two weeks in Vietnam to enjoy the main sights, but if you also want to go more off the beaten path, three weeks would be ideal.
How do I get around Vietnam?
Vietnam is a long, narrow country so travelling internally means navigating a few of the local transport options. For any longer distances, and if you’re short on time the best transport option would be to fly. There are a number of safe, reputable airlines that operate in Vietnam.
If you’re looking for cheaper travel option, buses are a good way of getting from A to B but are often very busy and not overly comfortable. Some sleeper buses can be surprisingly comfortable and save you a night’s accommodation but just depends on your comfort levels. As for trains, especially the Reunification Express, is much more comfortable and reliable as a transport option but slightly more expensive.
Within larger cities, take a cyclo or motorbike taxi to get around. Spending time on the water is also a must-do in Vietnam, especially to see Ha Long Bay and travel along the Mekong River.
Vietnam coffee
What do I need to know before I go?
1. Make sure you know what the visa requirements are to enter for your nationality, as it can often involve applying for a letter, filling out a form and taking passport photos with you and having to pay a fee on arrival for the visa.
2. Depending on where you are planning to travel, book a doctor’s appointment 6-8 weeks before your departure to discuss if you need any vaccinations.
3. Learn a few key Vietnamese phrases.
4. If you plan to visit temples, make sure you have layers or clothing that will cover your shoulders and legs out of respect.
5. Worried about staying in contact with people at home or showing off your travels on Instagram? No need! Wi-Fi is everywhere in Vietnam so you can always stay connected.
Is Vietnam safe? Should I travel solo?
Vietnam is a very safe country to travel in and frequently shows up in lists of the best places in which to travel solo. In Vietnam, be careful of the roads, as reckless driving can cause accidents, and be aware of scams, as tourists can often be easy targets.
Key phrases
Xin chào Hello
Tạm biệt Goodbye
Cám ơn Thank you
Làm ơn Please
Vâng / Không Yes / No
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