Vietnam Travel Tips For First-timers

When is the best month to visit Vietnam? 

• Peak Season (December to March): This is the prime time for foreign tourists, especially those from colder regions. The pleasant weather and festive atmosphere, especially during the Christmas and New Year holidays in Northern attract visitors to Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Ha Long, and Sapa.

• Low Season (May to August): While domestic tourists flock to beach city during this period, international travelers from Western and Northeast Asian countries may find the hot and humid weather in Northern Vietnam less appealing. Temperatures can soar to 35-40°C, making outdoor activities in Hanoi, Ninh Binh, and Sapa challenging.

Vietnam travel tips for first-timers

1. Prepare all necessary identification documents and entry papers

• The foreign passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival in Vietnam. Temporary passports will not be accepted.
• The passport must have at least two blank pages for visa and immigration stamps.
• Two valid passport-sized photos as per Vietnamese regulations are required.

2. Create a detailed travel plan.

 

• Customize your Vietnam tour within 90s

3. Communicating with Locals

Vietnamese is the official language, and while English is spoken in major cities and tourist areas, it may not be as common in rural regions. Before your trip, download translation apps like Google Translate and learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases, such as "Xin chào" (Hello) or "Cảm ơn" (Thank you). If you plan to use your phone often, consider getting a local SIM card for mobile data. This will allow you to stay connected and use apps for translation, maps, or calling a ride. Many major airports and convenience stores offer SIM cards upon arrival.
 

4. Transportation Tips

Navigating transportation in Vietnam can be an adventure in itself. The most popular mode of transportation is the motorbike, which you can rent in most cities. However, traffic in places like Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi can be overwhelming for beginners, so consider using ride-hailing apps like Grab, Be or XanhSM which are safe and convenient for taxis and motorbikes alike. 

5. Other Essential Tips

 

• Currency: Vietnam uses the Vietnamese Dong (VND). It’s a good idea to carry small denominations for markets or street vendors. ATMs are widely available, but inform your bank before the trip to avoid any issues. 
• Health and Safety: Tap water is not safe to drink, so stick to bottled water. Also, bring insect repellent if you’re visiting rural areas or the Mekong Delta to protect against mosquitoes.
• Dress Code: While casual attire is acceptable in most places, dress modestly when visiting temples and religious sites. Remove your shoes before entering homes or places of worship.
• Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in restaurants and for services like tour guides or drivers. A small tip (around 5-10%) shows gratitude for good service.

 

Should first-timers book a package tour to experience Vietnam?