Vietnam is well-known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant cities. The country offers diverse experiences for visitors, like the bustling streets of Saigon, a window into the past of Vietnam of Hoi An Ancient Town, and the serene waters of Ha Long Bay. If you are considering Vietnam for your vacation, this guideline by Frontier Travel Viet Nam provides you with some notable Vietnam travel tips and insights into Vietnam tourism, helping you enjoy the best of this nation.
1. Arrange your visa
When Vietnamese adventure is on your list, ensure you have prepared for the necessary visa process. Depending on your nationality, you might be eligible for a visa exemption, e-visa, or visa on arrival. You can refer to information on the Internet, or come to the Embassy or any authorized agents to ask for consultation and paperwork support. Then, it is recommended that you apply for the appropriate visa in advance to avoid any last-minute problems. Currently, many people opt for the e-visa, allowing them to apply online and receive the visa electronically.
2. Prepare travel insurance
If you are familiar with traveling, travel insurance is a must-have for any trip to ensure safety, and Vietnam is no exception. Guarantee that your travel insurance covers medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other potential issues. For those planning to explore the country using motorbikes, the most popular means of transport in Vietnam, insurance that covers motorbike accidents is crucial.
3. Not drink tap water directly
In Vietnam, tap water is not safe enough for drinking directly. To guarantee your health, we advise you to opt for bottled or filtered water. Any hotels, restaurants, supermarkets or department stores across the country provide complimentary bottled water. In case you use tap water, it is essential to boil it carefully before drinking.
Also, minimize using ice in your drinks unless you can make sure that it has been made from purified water sources. Otherwise, you might face symptoms or diseases caused by bacteria in poisonous water.
4. Learn some Vietnamese language
Although English is quite popular in Vietnam, especially in famous destinations for tourism, we suggest you learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases. For example, simple words like "Xin chào" (Hello) and "Cảm ơn" (Thank you) are highly appreciated and can ease your connections with locals. And practicing the phrase "Bao nhiêu?" (How much?) can greatly enhance your shopping and/or bargaining experience.
5. Pay attention to the weather
It should be noted that Vietnam's climate varies significantly from North to South. The northern region experiences four distinct seasons, namely spring - summer - autumn - winter. The south enjoys a tropical climate with two distinct wet and dry seasons.
Therefore, understanding the weather of your favorite destination is a must before choosing time to visit. For example, some European visitors might be shocked by the scorching atmosphere in Can Tho during the dry season. Then remember to check the weather forecast within your travel dates and pack accordingly. If you're visiting Hanoi in winter, for instance, bring dense clothing and accessories to keep your body warm.
6. Choose suitable clothing
As mentioned above, you should pay attention to the weather to dress appropriately. Lightweight, breathable fabrics, such as silk and linen, are ideal for the hot and humid atmosphere. A light jacket or sweater is useful for cooler evenings and air-conditioned places, for example, when you visit Sapa or Da Lat.
If visiting temples or religious sites is in your plan already, you should prepare modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Otherwise, you will be negatively judged by surrounding people or even restricted from entering the place.
7. Get a local SIM card
When you arrive in Vietnam, remember to immediately purchase a local SIM card to stay connected to the Internet, and stay in touch with family and friends. Without the Internet connection, it is quite hard for you to navigate, find services, and use other conveniences. Major Vietnamese telecommunication providers like Viettel, Mobifone, and Vinaphone offer affordable packages with good coverage across the country, around 50,000 VND - 100,000 VND, equaling $2 - $5, per sim card, including data for Internet. You can purchase more data depending on your demands with various options.
8. Bypassing tip at restaurants
In Vietnam, giving a tip is not a common practice, even in luxurious restaurants. However, a small tip will be highly appreciated if you receive exceptional service. In case you come to high-end restaurants and hotels, a service charge is usually included in the bill, so additional tipping is not necessary.
9. Cross the streets in Vietnam
Traffic in Vietnam, especially in established cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, can be extremely overwhelming to those who are not familiar with the country. To cross the street safely, here we give you some tips:
- Walk steadily and do not make sudden moves or run.
- Make eye contact with approaching drivers, but do not be afraid when drivers navigate around you.
- Follow traffic lights to use pedestrian crossings.
Sometimes, we call it a matter of confidence and steady movement. Locals are used to navigating around pedestrians, so just keep yourself calm, make a steady pace, and do not be afraid.
10. Bargain
Bargaining is a common practice in Vietnamese markets and department stores. However, in some places, such as fixed-price stores, supermarkets, or upscale boutiques, bargaining is not appropriate. Especially when you are a foreign tourist, to get the best price, start by offering about 30-50% of the initial asking price, and then negotiate gradually from there. You absolutely need to keep yourself respectful and polite during the whole process.
Vietnam is a mesmerizing destination with many distinctive things to offer. Hopefully, this article with Vietnam travel tips and Vietnam tourism insights help you to be well-prepared for the trip. If you have any other questions or concerns, please feel free to contact the Frontier Travel Viet Nam team. Safe journey!
