Xin chào! Welcome to Vietnam, a land of rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the tranquil beauty of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam offers an enchanting experience for travelers seeking adventure, cultural immersion, and delicious cuisine.
10-15 Most Popular Attractions
- Ha Long Bay: Sail through the iconic limestone karsts and emerald waters of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Hoi An Ancient Town: Step back in time as you explore the charming lantern-lit streets of this historic port town.
- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Pay your respects to the revered leader at this monumental site in Hanoi.
- Cu Chi Tunnels: Discover the underground network used during the Vietnam War for guerrilla warfare.
- Imperial City of Hue: Uncover the regal history of Vietnam’s former capital and its majestic citadel.
- Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park: Venture into the world’s largest cave system and witness breathtaking stalactites.
- Mekong Delta: Cruise along the winding waterways and explore the vibrant floating markets.
- Sa Pa Terraced Rice Fields: Trek through the terraced landscapes of Sa Pa for stunning views and cultural encounters.
- Da Nang’s Marble Mountains: Climb these limestone hills for panoramic vistas and ancient pagodas.
- Nha Trang Beach: Relax on the sandy shores of this coastal paradise and indulge in water sports.
5 Fun Things to Do
- Halong Bay Cruise: Embark on a luxury cruise or traditional junk boat to experience the breathtaking beauty of Ha Long Bay.
- Street Food Tour in Hanoi: Treat your taste buds to a gastronomic adventure with the city’s iconic street food.
- Motorbike Adventure in Ho Chi Minh City: Hop on a motorbike and zip through the bustling streets for an adrenaline-pumping experience.
- Water Puppet Show: Immerse yourself in traditional Vietnamese culture with a water puppet performance.
- Hoi An Lantern Making Workshop: Create your own colorful lantern as a unique souvenir to take home.
Popular Photo Spots
- Golden Bridge in Ba Na Hills: Capture stunning photos of the picturesque Golden Bridge held by giant hands against a mountain backdrop.
- Mui Ne Sand Dunes: Snap mesmerizing shots of the vast sand dunes and watch the sunrise or sunset.
- Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi: Photograph the iconic red bridge leading to the Ngoc Son Temple in the heart of the city.
- Cao Dai Temple in Tay Ninh: Capture the vibrant colors and intricate details of this magnificent religious site.
- Japanese Covered Bridge in Hoi An: Frame the elegant Japanese Bridge with its pagoda-style architecture.
Nightlife
Vietnam’s nightlife offers a mix of laid-back bars, bustling markets, and lively clubs. In cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, explore the vibrant Bui Vien and Ta Hien streets for a taste of the local nightlife. Join a pub crawl or enjoy live music performances in trendy venues. For a more cultural experience, visit night markets like Hoi An’s Night Market, where you can shop for souvenirs, sample street food, and enjoy traditional performances.
Top Beaches
- An Bang Beach: Relax on the serene shores of An Bang Beach, near Hoi An, known for its calm waters and golden sands.
- Phu Quoc Island: Unwind on the idyllic beaches of Phu Quoc, a tropical paradise with crystal-clear waters.
- Nha Trang Beach: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Nha Trang Beach, offering a range of water activities.
- Mui Ne Beach: Witness the beauty of Mui Ne’s sandy beaches and unique sand dunes.
- Da Nang Beach: Experience the perfect combination of city and beach life in Da Nang.
Top Restaurants
- Nha Hang Ngon: Savor a variety of Vietnamese dishes in a traditional setting with a lush garden atmosphere.
- Bun Cha Huong Lien: Delight in the iconic Hanoi dish of bun cha at the restaurant where President Obama famously dined.
- Secret Garden in Ho Chi Minh City: Enjoy authentic Vietnamese cuisine on a rooftop garden terrace.
- Morning Glory in Hoi An: Indulge in Hoi An’s local delicacies in a charming setting.
- Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su in Hanoi: Taste Vietnam’s most famous dish, pho, at this renowned eatery.
5 Local Cuisines
- Pho: Try Vietnam’s beloved noodle soup, typically made with beef or chicken and garnished with herbs.
- Banh Mi: Savor the delicious Vietnamese sandwich with various fillings like grilled pork, pate, and fresh veggies.
- Bun Cha: Enjoy this Hanoi specialty, consisting of grilled pork served with vermicelli noodles and a side of herbs and dipping sauce.
- Goi Cuon: Delight in fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, herbs, vermicelli, and sometimes pork.
- Cao Lau: Relish this Hoi An noodle dish topped with pork, fresh herbs, and crunchy rice crackers.
Best Season to Visit
The best time to visit Vietnam is during the dry season, which varies depending on the region:
- North Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long Bay): Visit from October to April for pleasant temperatures and little rainfall.
- Central Vietnam (Hoi An, Da Nang, Hue): Explore from February to August when the weather is dry and sunny.
- South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta): Experience dry and hot weather from November to April.
5 Budget Hotels to Stay
- Hanoi Backpacker Hostel (Hanoi): Enjoy a comfortable stay in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
- The Sinh Tourist Hostel (Ho Chi Minh City): Stay in this budget-friendly hostel conveniently located near attractions.
- Tribee Bana Hostel (Da Nang): Experience a cozy stay and friendly atmosphere in Da Nang.
- La Residencia Hotel & Spa (Hoi An): Enjoy a peaceful stay with excellent facilities in Hoi An.
- Chen Sea Resort & Spa (Phu Quoc Island): Treat yourself to a relaxing stay at this beachfront resort on Phu Quoc Island.
Nearest Airports and Major Airlines
Vietnam is well-connected with international flights arriving at major airports:
- Noi Bai International Airport (HAN): Serves Hanoi and is the gateway to North Vietnam.
- Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN): Located in Ho Chi Minh City and is the primary gateway to South Vietnam.
- Da Nang International Airport (DAD): Serves Central Vietnam and is a convenient gateway for exploring Hoi An and Da Nang.
Major airlines flying to Vietnam include Vietnam Airlines, Qantas, British Airways, Emirates, and Singapore Airlines.
Visa Requirements
British and Australian travelers need a visa to enter Vietnam. You can obtain a tourist visa online or through the Vietnamese embassy or consulate before your trip. The visa allows for a single entry or multiple entries and typically has a validity of one month or three months, depending on your choice. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your entry date into Vietnam.
Common Language Spoken
Vietnamese is the official language spoken in Vietnam. While traveling, you will find that English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. Learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases will be appreciated by the locals and enhance your cultural experience.
Transportation and Getting Around
Vietnam offers various transportation options for travelers:
- Domestic Flights: For longer distances, consider taking domestic flights between major cities.
- Trains: Travel by train to experience the scenic countryside between Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City.
- Buses: Buses are a budget-friendly option for traveling within cities and between destinations.
- Motorbike Taxis (Xe Om): For short distances, hop on a motorbike taxi, a common mode of transportation in Vietnam.
- Cyclos and Trishaws: Take a leisurely cyclo or trishaw ride in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City for a unique experience.
Breathtaking Landscapes
Vietnam’s diverse landscapes offer something for every traveler:
- Ha Long Bay: Cruise through the surreal beauty of limestone karsts rising from emerald waters.
- Sapa Valley: Trek through terraced rice fields and meet ethnic minority communities.
- Mekong Delta: Explore the maze of waterways and floating markets in this fertile region.
- Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park: Discover the world’s largest cave systems and stunning limestone formations.
- Ban Gioc Waterfall: Marvel at the breathtaking beauty of Vietnam’s largest waterfall.
Safety Tips for Females and Family
Vietnam is generally safe for female travelers and families, but it’s essential to take precautions:
- Dress Modestly: When visiting temples or rural areas, dress modestly out of respect for local customs.
- Personal Belongings: Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas to avoid pickpocketing.
- Traffic Awareness: Exercise caution when crossing the streets, as traffic can be chaotic.
- Water Safety: Only drink bottled or filtered water to avoid waterborne illnesses.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs and traditions, especially in rural areas.
Suggested Budget for 2
For a moderate budget, a couple can expect to spend around $80 to $120 per day, including accommodation, meals, transportation, and activities. Luxury travelers should budget around $200 to $400 per day, while budget-conscious travelers can aim for $40 to $60 per day.
Currency
The official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in major cities and tourist areas. It’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases in rural areas and local markets.
Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s:
- Do try Vietnamese street food for an authentic culinary experience.
- Do haggle at markets and street vendors for better prices.
- Do respect local customs and traditions, such as removing your shoes before entering someone’s home.
- Do dress modestly when visiting temples and religious sites.
- Do learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to interact with locals.
Don’ts:
- Don’t display public affection, as it is considered inappropriate in Vietnamese culture.
- Don’t take photos of military or government buildings.
- Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water.
- Don’t use your feet to point at people or objects, as it is considered impolite.
- Don’t raise your voice or lose your temper, as Vietnamese culture values harmony and politeness.
Vietnam is a captivating destination that offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. From the ancient pagodas of Hanoi to the vibrant floating markets of the Mekong Delta, the country’s diversity will leave you spellbound. With this comprehensive guide, you are equipped to embark on a memorable journey through Vietnam, immersing yourself in its cultural richness and creating unforgettable memories along the way. Prepare to be awed by the stunning landscapes, mesmerized by the vibrant cities, and enchanted by the warm smiles of the Vietnamese people. Let Vietnam’s timeless beauty unfold before you, as you embrace the charm of this fascinating country on your next adventure.