30 Important Things To Know Before Visiting Vietnam
Vietnam is a beautiful and culturally rich country that offers travelers an exciting blend of history, nature, and delicious food. Vietnam has always been on my bucket list and it did not disappoint! Whether you are a history buff, a foodie, a nature lover, or just looking for an adventure, Vietnam has it all.
Before traveling to Vietnam, here are some things to know before visiting Vietnam:
Basic Vietnam Travel Tips
Visas & Passport Guidelines for Vietnam
All visitors will need a valid Passport to visit Vietnam. For best practice, ensure that it does not expire for 6 months.
Most travelers need a Visa to travel to Vietnam. You can apply for a visa online, at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate, or through a visa service. The cost of the Vietnam Visa is $25 USD and I recommend ordering it online at least 30 days before your trip.
The border control is very strict regarding the Visa. A few of my friends struggled to get their visa in time and were denied entry at the border. They also strictly hold you to the 30 day window allocated for visitors to be in Vietnam.
Note: You do not need a Visa if you only plan to visit Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam.
Vietnam Currency
The official currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese dong (VND). Dong will make you feel like a million as 1 Million Dong = about $25 USD. Get used to seeing big numbers for small purchases (50,000 dong for 1 water).
Cash is king in Vietnam. ATMs are widely available in major cities. That said, credit cards are generally accepted at many hotels and restaurants.
There are also no coins in the Vietnamese currency – only paper bills.
Language in Vietnam
Vietnamese is the official language of Vietnam, but English is somewhat spoken in tourist areas.
The three most important Vietnamese phrases to know are listed below:
- Hello: xin chào (pronounced sin chow)
- Sorry/Excuse Me: xin lỗi (pronounced sin lauw)
- Thank You: Cảm ơn (pronounced cohme awn)
- 1, 2, 3, Cheers: Mot, Hai Ba, Zo (said before drinking!)
Vaccines for Vietnam
In addition to your routine vaccines, you’ll want to consider a few extra vaccines for Vietnam: Typhoid, Hep A & Hep B, and Rabies.
Make sure to also take precautions against mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue fever and malaria. Depending on your specific itinerary, some Doctors may recommend Malaria pills. Regardless, it is a good idea to bring bug spray and bug repellant, especially if you’re traveling to the Mekong Delta.
Always check out the CDC Website for traveler information as this is definitely one of the most important things to know before visiting Vietnam!
Weather in Vietnam
Vietnam has a tropical climate, and the weather can vary greatly depending on the region and season. The north can be cool and rainy in the winter months, while the south is hot and humid year-round.
Be sure to pack clothes that don’t show sweat and are breathable – the heat in Southern Vietnam can be unbearable!
Safety Travel Tips for Vietnam
Vietnam is generally a safe country for travelers, but it’s always important to exercise caution and take necessary precautions. Here are some safety travel tips for Vietnam:
Be aware of your surroundings:
Keep an eye on your surroundings and be aware of any suspicious activity or people around you. This is especially important in crowded areas such as markets, train stations, and tourist attractions.
Use reputable transportation:
Use reputable taxis or ride-hailing services, and avoid unlicensed taxis or motorbike taxis. Always agree on a price before getting in and make sure the driver is taking you to the correct destination.
You can download “Grab” app which is the Southeast Asia version of Uber. It is very safe to use and ensures you agree on a price before entering the car! I wish someone had told me to download and activate Grab before arriving to Vietnam because it does require a few steps (credit card info, verification, etc) which can be tricky without service. Use this as one of the best things to know before visiting Vietnam!
Be cautious of scams:
Be wary of scams such as overcharging for goods, fake taxis, and “helpful” strangers offering unsolicited advice or assistance. Always verify prices and services before agreeing to anything.
Watch out for traffic:
Traffic in Vietnam is always chaotic, so be careful when crossing the street. A local guide in Vietnam made the joke that crosswalks are just for decoration – and it’s pretty true! Locals will cross the street wherever they please in the middle of a busy intersections. Motorbikes and cars just swerve around pedestrians.
Best advice for crossing busy streets: go when there is a gap in traffic and don’t stop – be confident in your path so you aren’t playing chicken with the motorbikes.
Another fun fact: Locals in Vietnam call all motorbikes “Hondas” despite the official brand! Watch out for “Hondas” and wear a helmet if you are riding a motorbike or scooter – it is the law!!
Respect local customs and laws:
Vietnam has strict laws regarding drugs, and penalties for drug offenses can be severe. Respect local customs and dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.
Stay hydrated:
Vietnam can be hot and humid, so make sure to drink plenty of water and avoid dehydration.
However – be sure to avoid tap water!! Only use bottles of water to stay hydrated, brush your teeth, and cook.
Take precautions against mosquitos:
Mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever and malaria are present in Vietnam. Wear long sleeves and pants when possible, use mosquito repellent, and sleep under a mosquito net if necessary.
Have travel insurance:
Make sure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation, as well as any activities you plan to participate in such as motorbike riding or adventure sports.
I personally experienced a few flight delays getting to Vietnam and had to use my travel insurance! Luckily, none of my 6 flights within Vietnam had any issues!
Cultural Vietnam Travel Tips
Vietnamese Cuisine
Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its fresh, healthy, and flavorful dishes. With influences from Chinese, French, and Southeast Asian cuisines, Vietnamese food offers a wide range of dishes from noodle soups to grilled meats, spring rolls, and pho. Popular ingredients include fish sauce, herbs, lime, and chili peppers.
Traditional dishes such as banh mi, bun cha, and pho have become popular worldwide, and street food is a must-try when visiting Vietnam.
Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, making Vietnamese cuisine suitable for all dietary preferences.
Pro Tip: Bring Pepto Bismol and/or Imodium – your stomach might not enjoy the food as much as your taste buds!
Vietnamese Coffee
Vietnamese coffee is a unique and delicious beverage that is a must-try when visiting Vietnam. It is made by combining coarsely ground dark roast coffee with sweetened condensed milk and then brewed slowly through a small metal drip filter called a phin. The result is a rich, smooth, and creamy coffee that is enjoyed hot or iced.
Vietnamese coffee is known for its strong, bold flavor, and is often served with a glass of ice to be enjoyed as a refreshing iced coffee. It is an important part of Vietnamese culture and is enjoyed throughout the day, from breakfast to after-dinner dessert.
Haggling in Markets
It is expected to haggle and negotiate prices in Vietnamese markets! The more touristy the market, the more you should haggle! Expect to pay 50% to 70% less than the starting point you are quoted!
Touristy Vietnamese markets typically have souvenirs, spices, food, and knock-off design bags.
Toilets in Vietnam
While most toilets are now “westernized” (meaning it is more than just a hole in the ground) – there are still a few differences to be aware of! You’ll likely need to pay to use the toilet, and there is rarely toilet paper provided! Bring your own toilet paper and always have small bills on hand!
In some nicer hotels and restaurants, you may find that bidets are quite popular in Vietnam – enjoy your heated seats!
Outlet Plugs in Vietnam
The most popular outlet plug in Vietnam is the European 2-pin outlet. My favorite outlet converter for Vietnam is Vintar from Amazon! It has space for 2 American Plugs, 3 USBs, and 1 USB-C cord!
However, some areas use British 3-blade or North American 2-blade prong and some places accommodate USB chargers! Knowing the outlet converter is one of the most important things to know before visiting Vietnam so you can plan accordingly!
FAQ Travel Tips for Vietnam
Is it safe for Americans to visit Vietnam?
Many Americans are hesitant to visit Vietnam after the war as they fear locals might be angry or hostile. This couldn’t be further from the truth – most locals in Vietnam are very kind and accommodating people. They’re self proclaimed “very forgiving” and do not hold a grudge towards Americans today.
Is tipping expected in Vietnam?
Tipping isn’t expected or mandatory in Vietnam. However, it has become polite to round up your bill or leave a small amount for good service! This is especially true in tourist destinations!
Can I drink the water in Vietnam?
No, it is not recommended to drink the water in Vietnam! Instead, opt for a water bottle for 20,000 dong ($0.85 USD).
Final Thoughts on Things To Know Before Visiting Vietnam:
In conclusion, I highly recommend that you visit Vietnam. It is a truly unique and unforgettable destination that has so much to offer. From the rich history and culture to the delicious food and stunning landscapes, Vietnam has something for everyone. So why not book your trip today and experience it all for yourself?
If you have any other recommendations on things to know before visiting Vietnam, drop them in the comments please! 🙂
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