Planning a trip to Vietnam? This diverse and vibrant country offers stunning landscapes, rich culture, and mouthwatering cuisine, making it an unforgettable destination. To help you make the most of your journey, here are some essential things to know before going to Vietnam.
From visa requirements and currency tips to local etiquette and transportation options, understanding the essentials will help you avoid common travel mistakes and make the most of your time in Vietnam.
1. Preparing your Visa in advance
Before traveling to Vietnam, it’s important to check the latest Vietnam visa requirements to ensure a smooth entry. Most visitors need a visa, but the process varies depending on nationality. Travelers from over 90 countries can apply for an e-visa online, which is one of the most convenient options.
Visa is the first thing to equip with to go to Vietnam (Image Source: Internet)
Since processing times may vary, it’s recommended to apply at least 1-2 weeks before your trip to avoid any last-minute issues. Planning ahead will help ensure a hassle-free arrival so you can focus on enjoying your Vietnam adventure.
2. Choosing Region and Season Wisely
Vietnam’s diverse geography and climate mean that different regions experience distinct weather patterns throughout the year. Unlike countries with a uniform climate, Vietnam stretches over 1,650 km from north to south, resulting in varying temperatures, rainfall levels, and seasonal changes. Selecting the right season and region is essential to ensure an enjoyable and comfortable travel experience.
Vietnam weather in a year (Image Source: Vietnam Travel)
- Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long Bay) experiences four seasons, with hot summers (May–August) and cold winters (December–February), especially in mountainous areas like Sapa, where temperatures can drop close to freezing.
- Central Vietnam (Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue, Nha Trang) features a dry season (February–August) with sunny beaches, while the rainy season (September–January) can bring storms and flooding.
- Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc) has a tropical climate, with a dry season (November–April) and a wet season (May–October) when humidity and monsoons are common.
3. Wi-Fi Accessibility in Vietnam
One of the common concerns of visitors that they consider when traveling to Vietnam is, “Does Vietnam have the Internet?”. Of course, almost every café, restaurant, and hotel in Vietnam offers complimentary Wi-Fi.
In big cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, public areas such as airports, train stations, shopping malls, and even some parks have free Wi-Fi hotspots. Major airports like Noi Bai (Hanoi) and Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City) provide unlimited free Wi-Fi, so travelers can stay connected while waiting for flights.
Vietnam provides accessible free Wi-Fi in coffee shops, convenience stores, and restaurants (Image Source: Internet)
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4. Learning some basic Vietnamese phrases
Knowing basic phrases can help you navigate everyday situations more easily, such as ordering food, asking for directions, and bargaining at markets.
You don’t need to be fluent like a pro, but you just need to know some basic Vietnamese phrases to help you navigate situations more easily, such as ordering food, asking for directions, and bargaining with vendors at local markets. Moreover, it is a great way to show your respect for our culture and can open up new opportunities for interaction, allowing you to connect with locals on a deeper level.
The visitors is asking for help at Da Lat, Lam Dong, Vietnam (Image Source: Internet)
5. Wearing Appropriate Clothes to Public Places
When visiting religious sites in Vietnam, such as temples and pagodas, it’s customary to dress modestly as a sign of respect for local customs. While there is no strict dress code, it’s generally advisable for both men and women to cover their shoulders and knees.
You may need to wear polite clothes to Vietnam temples (Image Source: Internet)
This can be easily achieved by wearing long pants or skirts and a t-shirt with sleeves. While shorts and sleeveless tops are acceptable in many casual settings, it’s best to err on the side of caution when visiting sacred places. Remember, respecting local customs enhances your travel experience and fosters a deeper connection with the culture and traditions of the country.
>>> Read more: 10 Must-Visit Temples and Pagodas in Ho Chi Minh City
6. Downloading Useful Vietnam Travel Apps
Before traveling to Vietnam, downloading the suitable Vietnam travel apps can make your trip more convenient, stress-free, and enjoyable. From transportation and navigation to language translation and currency conversion, these essential apps will help you get around, communicate, and explore like a local.
Essential Vietnam travel apps you should download
7. Using Dollars and Dong Flexibly
For a smooth trip in Vietnam, we recommend you carry both US Dollars and Vietnamese Dong (VND). While USD might be preferred for tourist-oriented services like tour bookings, domestic transport, and some hotels, VND is essential for everyday expenses at local restaurants, bars, shops, and markets.
Use USD and VND Flexibly in Vietnam (Image Source: Internet)
You can easily withdraw VND from ATMs upon arrival, but remember to have enough USD on hand to pay for your Visa. When given the option, paying in VND often provides a more favorable exchange rate.
8. Bringing Cash to Rural or Remote Destinations
As you venture further from cities and into more rural areas, access to ATMs may become limited. Therefore, it’s crucial to withdraw sufficient cash beforehand to cover your expenses for food, accommodation, and other activities during your trip.
9. Easy and Affordable Transportation
While the traffic in Vietnam is quite chaotic for first-time visitors, getting around is surprisingly easy and comfortable. Vietnam boasts an extensive public transportation network, making it simple to travel between cities.
- Buses are a popular and budget-friendly option, with comfortable “open-tour” buses available for longer journeys.
- Trains offer a scenic and relaxing alternative, particularly the popular routes between Da Nang and Hue and the overnight sleepers connecting Hue to Hanoi and Hanoi to Lao Cai.
- Ride-hailing apps help get around Vietnam never has it been easier, offering convenient, affordable, and reliable transportation options. Whether you’re exploring bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City or smaller towns, these apps provide a hassle-free alternative to traditional taxis and motorbike rentals.
Remember to withdraw sufficient Vietnamese Dong (VND) beforehand, as cash is often preferred, especially in smaller towns and villages.
Traveling in Vietnam by train to capture each moment of your trip (Image Source: Internet)
And that wraps up things to know before going to Vietnam! Vietnam has so much more to offer, so please stay open to new experiences, embrace the local culture, and make the most of every moment of your Vietnam trip. Get ready to explore Vietnam and create memories that will last a lifetime.
