Blog Details

Introduction: Welcome to Vietnam, a country rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. From bustling cities to serene landscapes, Vietnam offers travelers a captivating blend of tradition and modernity. Whether you're seeking vibrant street markets, tranquil beaches, or ancient temples, Vietnam has something to enchant every visitor.

1. Visa Requirements: Before traveling to Vietnam, check the visa requirements for your nationality. Most visitors need a visa to enter Vietnam, which can be obtained through the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your home country, or via an online e-visa application. Ensure your passport has at least six months' validity beyond your planned stay.

2. Getting There: Vietnam is well-connected by air, with international airports in major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. You can also enter Vietnam overland from neighboring countries such as Cambodia, Laos, and China. Domestic flights, trains, buses, and taxis are convenient options for traveling within Vietnam.

3. Best Places to Visit: Explore Vietnam's diverse destinations, including:

• Hanoi: Discover the capital's historic Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and iconic landmarks like the Temple of Literature and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.
• Ho Chi Minh City: Experience the vibrant energy of Saigon with visits to the War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, and bustling Ben Thanh Market.
• Halong Bay: Cruise through the emerald waters and limestone karsts of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its breathtaking scenery.
• Hoi An: Wander through the charming streets of this ancient town, known for its well-preserved architecture, lantern-lit evenings, and mouthwatering cuisine.
• Hue: Immerse yourself in Vietnam's imperial history with a visit to Hue's ancient citadel, royal tombs, and Perfume River.
• Sapa: Trek through terraced rice fields, visit ethnic minority villages, and soak in the stunning mountain vistas of northwest Vietnam.

4. Accommodation – Hostels start at around 100,000 VND per night for a dorm room. These can be a bit rustic and no-frills. For a hostel with more amenities, such as free breakfast or a a free happy hour (as well as improved cleanliness), expect to pay double. Private rooms cost at least 350,890-425,000 VND per night for a double room. Most hostels include free Wi-Fi, and many also include free breakfast or free beer during certain hours of the day. Self-catering facilities are not very common since eating out is so cheap.

For those traveling with a tent, wild camping is not legal in Vietnam. Insects and animals can be an issue, there are lots of landmines still undiscovered out in the brush, and robbery can occur. Stay safe and stick to hostels.

For a budget hotel with a double bed, expect to pay around 225,000 VND per night. This usually includes free Wi-Fi and free breakfast.

On Airbnb, a private room costs at least 325,000 VND per night. For an entire home or apartment, prices begin around 600,000 VND. Prices double when not booked in advance so plan accordingly.

5. Cuisine and Dining: Indulge in Vietnam's world-renowned cuisine, from pho (noodle soup) and banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich) to fresh spring rolls and fragrant seafood dishes. Don't miss the chance to sample local specialties like bun cha (grilled pork with noodles) in Hanoi, cao lau (noodle dish) in Hoi An, and com tam (broken rice) in Ho Chi Minh City.

You can get a bowl of pho or a rice dish for 20,000 VND. Street food is the cheapest and the most delicious food option in the country. Most sit-down restaurants are also inexpensive at around 45,000-95,000 VND. The fancier (and more touristy) the restaurant, the more expensive. Western food is also more expensive, usually around 110,000 VND for a fast food meal, so skip it if you’re on a budget.

If you want to splash out on a fancy three-course meal, expect to spend around 250,000 VND. A liter of water at a convenience store is about 15,000 VND, while beer or soda is about 20,000-35,000 VND.

For those looking to cook their own meals, expect to pay at least 400,000 VND per week for basic groceries. Be sure to shop at the local markets to get the cheapest and freshest food. That being said, food is so cheap in the country that it’s simply easier – and cheaper – to just eat street food, especially as most hostels and hotels don’t have shared kitchens.

6. Outdoor Adventures: Embark on outdoor adventures in Vietnam's breathtaking landscapes, including:

• Trekking in the lush mountains of Sapa or Mai Chau.
• Cruising along the Mekong Delta's winding waterways.
• Exploring the caves and karst formations of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.
• Relaxing on the golden beaches of Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, or Da Nang.

7. Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in Vietnam's rich cultural heritage with activities such as:

• Visiting ancient temples, pagodas, and imperial citadels.
• Participating in traditional Vietnamese cooking classes.
• Witnessing vibrant festivals and traditional performances.
• Interacting with local artisans in craft villages.

8. Travel Tips:

• Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
• Bargain politely when shopping at markets.
• Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
• Respect local customs and traditions.

9. Money-Saving Tips

• Eat delicious street food – The street food here is excellent and cheap, and you can watch it being cooked in front of you. Stick to the local food and you’ll save money. The street-side pho, bread, sandwiches, donuts, and bananas are your best deals.
• Late-night travel – If traveling on long journeys, try to take the late-night “sleeper” buses or trains as these will save you the cost of a night’s accommodation. Depending on the company, you may even have a chance to comfortably lie flat as you ride through the dark countryside to your next destination.
• Take the tourist bus – It is actually cheaper to take the tourist bus around the country than taking local transportation because of the “tourist” price you get at the bus station. Tickets from one end of the country to another are very affordable.
• Fly for cheap – Vietnam’s low-cost airlines VietJet and FlyVietnam are extremely inexpensive. This is a great option for people with limited time to explore different regions of Vietnam. Both airlines frequently offer special deals and at the time of writing this, Hanoi to Da Nang is just 820,000 VND!
• Bargain hard – Tourists tend to be charged more than locals for everything from cyclos (a three-wheel bicycle taxi) to clothes to street food. Bargain harder than you would ordinarily, and don’t underestimate the value of walking away.
• Avoid paying tourist prices – Before you leave the hostel, ask them to estimate how much what you want to do should cost. How much should a ride to the museum cost? How much should I pay to have a gown like this made? They will be able to give you bargaining guidelines.
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water in Hanoi is not safe to drink. To save money and reduce your plastic use, bring a reusable water bottle with you. 

Conclusion: With its captivating landscapes, vibrant cities, and warm hospitality, Vietnam promises an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you're exploring its historic landmarks, savoring its delectable cuisine, or immersing yourself in its cultural treasures, Vietnam will leave you mesmerized and longing to return.