Insider Travel Tips

How to plan a trip to Vietnam?

Vietnam has rapidly emerged as one of Southeast Asia’s leading destinations. Its long coastline means most Vietnam tours move north to south or vice versa, with international flights regularly scheduled in and out of both Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) in the far south and Hanoi, the country’s capital in the north. Danang has also become a major hub for international flights.

How long can I vacation in Vietnam?

The Vietnam e-Visa is valid for a maximum of 90 days, for single or multiple entries.

What currency does Vietnam use?

Vietnam uses the dong, which trades around 25,000 to 1USD.

Do I need to tip in Vietnam?

Tipping is not usually expected in Vietnam, but most service workers will appreciate a small tip if you wish to leave one.

What to pack for a trip to Vietnam?

Light, breathable layers are best, particularly in the hotter south. You’ll want a good, practical sweater or jacket if visiting northern Vietnam in the winter, plus practical, everyday items including hand sanitizer. Between Ha Long Bay, the Mekong Delta, and gorgeous beaches up and down the coast, bring a bathing suit, plus a set of clothes that will dry easily. If you’re planning to shop, particularly in Hoi An, be sure to leave space in your luggage for new made-to-order clothes.

How long should I spend in Ha Long Bay?

Ha Long Bay is one of Vietnam’s most striking natural marvels. A day trip from Hanoi just doesn’t do it justice. Book at least one night here, ideally on an overnight cruise, which gives you time to reach some of the bay’s more remote islands.

How to buy tailored clothes in Vietnam?

Besides its postcard-perfect beauty, the central Vietnamese town of Hoi An is famous for tailored clothing. Many Vietnam tour packages spend three days here, giving visitors time to measure, fit, and finalize their new wardrobe. The quality of the work and material is usually excellent. Definitely bargain, but don’t nickel and dime your tailor (around 60 to 70 percent of the original asking price is usually fair). Do not back out of the deal or refuse the work once it’s done unless there’s something seriously wrong. The person who served you will probably have to wear the cost, which for them can easily be several months wages. If there are any problems, give your tailor a chance to make it right and arrange for corrected garments to be sent on if you have to leave town.

What part of Vietnam is most beautiful?

That depends entirely on personal taste. The limestone karsts and misty waters of Ha Long Bay, the mountainous highlands of Sapa, Hoi An’s lovely old town, the waterways of the Mekong Delta and many more destinations vie for the title of Vietnam’s most beautiful spot. This is an incredibly diverse country that’s sure to take your breath away more than once during your visit.   

Is Vietnam friendly to American tourists?

Yes! Vietnam is a young country and for many Vietnamese, the “American War” is a distant memory, or something they learned about from their parents or in school. Vietnam faced terrible economic and social hardships after the war, and its people are proud of their country’s resurgence as an economic powerhouse in Asia on good terms with the west. Survivors who fought for either the South or the Viet Cong, are often happy to share their stories with receptive American tourists. Take the unique opportunity to get a very different perspective on history, and accept that popular attractions like the War Remnants Museum, Cu Chi Tunnels, Hoa Lo prison, and Reunification Hall may present the ‘facts’ a bit differently. 

Is Vietnam LGBTQ+ friendly?

LGBTQ+ tourists are very welcome in Vietnam. Homosexual relations have always been legal (at least officially), and LGBTQ+ identities have been recorded in Vietnamese culture for centuries. LGBTQ+ Vietnam tends to be low key, even in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, but it’s always present, and Pride festivals are growing in popularity. Vietnam’s government has rarely engaged with LGBTQ+ rights directly, though there have been recent pushes for marriage equality and the right to change gender on identity documents.  

Can I drink the tap water in Vietnam?

Stick to bottled water for drinking in Vietnam. The local tap water is fine for bathing and brushing your teeth, however. Ice is usually made by machine, using filtered water.