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Calling all adventurers, history buffs, and foodies! Vietnam awaits, a land where bustling cityscapes meet emerald rice paddies, where ancient temples share space with steaming bowls of phở, and where the echoes of war whisper alongside tales of resilience. But before you embark on your Vietnamese odyssey, here’s a quick guide to ensure your trip is as exhilarating as a motorbike ride through the scenic Ha Giang Loop.
Visa
Most visitors to Vietnam require visas to enter the country for tourism purposes. Currently, Vietnam has granted visa exemptions to 25 countries, with different lengths of stay as outlined below:
Chile and Panama: Up to 90 days
Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the UK, Russia, Japan, the Republic of Korea (South Korea), Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Belarus: The period of visa-free stay has increased from 15 days to 45 days, valid until 14 March 2025
Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Kyrgyzstan: Up to 30 days
The Philippines: Up to 21 days
Brunei and Myanmar: Up to 14 days
The visa exemptions are subject to change based on Vietnam’s immigration policies, so you should check carefully with the Embassy of Vietnam in your home country or consult with Chào Asia Travel before planning your trip.
For tourists requiring a visa to enter Vietnam, visa fees may vary depending on the type of visa (single, multiple, etc.). A visa on arrival (VOA) is available but requires an invitation letter issued by a tour operator. You must present this letter along with the visa fee upon arrival. Since August 2023, Vietnam has fully implemented its e-visa system, allowing visitors to obtain their visas online before arriving in Vietnam. Apply here: https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/trang-chu-ttdt. The e-visa application requires a clear passport copy with at least six months’ validity and at least 2 blank page for stamping, a passport photo (meeting specific regulations), and actual arrival and departure tickets. You can either apply for this e-visa yourself or seek support from a local tour operator to ensure the e-visa is issued correctly and to avoid any complications at immigration upon arrival.
Additionally, a multiple-entry visa will be necessary for those planning a re-entry to Vietnam, whether for a second visit or due to a layover where luggage cannot be checked through. We strongly advise consulting with your travel agent carefully when planning your trip to ensure all visa requirements are met.
Airports
Vietnam operates over 37 civil airports, including three main international gateways: Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi (HAN), Da Nang International Airport in Da Nang (DAD), and Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City (SGN). Tan Son Nhat is the largest, handling 75 percent of international passenger traffic. The biggest carrier in Vietnam is Vietnam Airlines (the national airline), and the second biggest is VietJet Air.
There are several ways to transfer from the city center to the airports in Vietnam. Mostly, you can take a taxi, use taxi apps (Grab, Be, Gojek), rent a private car, or arrange transportation through a local travel agent. Public buses are easily accessible at international airports in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City; however, the buses run on a fixed schedule, so you should be aware of the potential for long waiting times.
Attire
Vietnam’s weather varies significantly by region and season. Southern and central cities are warm year-round, with temperatures rarely dropping below 20°C. However, temperatures can decrease significantly further north during winter (from November to January, with scattered cold weather days in February or March).
In general, light cotton clothing is comfortable in Vietnam’s tropical climate. Some must-have items while traveling to Vietnam include mosquito repellent, a hat (for hot weather, as temperatures can sometimes reach 45-48 degrees during summer from May to August), and an umbrella (for the rainy season).
If you travel to Hanoi and Halong Bay between November and March, pack a light jacket or hoodie. January is typically the coldest and most humid month, with temperatures dropping to around 13°C.
In northern Vietnam (Sapa, Ha Giang, or Mu Cang Chai), from November to February, temperatures can approach freezing, sometimes falling below 0 degrees. Warm clothing, including a jacket, layers, gloves, and a beanie, is essential for this period.
When visiting pagodas, temples, monasteries, or mausoleums, you should dress modestly, avoiding shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless tops. Additionally, shoes should be removed before entering religious places or private homes.
Electricity
In Vietnam, the standard voltage is 220 Volts at 50Hz, although some locations may still use 110 Volts, 50Hz outlets. The standard socket type accepts a two-round-pin plug (Type C), but you may also encounter non-standard two-flat blade plugs (Type A) or two rectangular blade plugs (Type B). Some modern hotels and office buildings feature three-pin round sockets (Type D) or UK three-pin square sockets (Type G). Before traveling to Vietnam, review the electrical items you plan to bring and ensure you have the appropriate adapters, converters, or transformers. This will allow you to use your devices with Vietnam’s electrical system.
Internet & telephone
Throughout Vietnam, Wi-Fi connectivity can be found almost everywhere, including airports, hotels, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and sometimes even in public spaces such as international airports or the Hoan Kiem Lake area in Hanoi. In general, Wi-Fi in Vietnam is powerful, except in remote areas or in the sea of Ha Long Bay, where Wi-Fi connectivity might not be available.
To avoid costly roaming charges, purchasing a local SIM card, which is readily available at the airport or in city centers, is advisable. Registering a new SIM card in Vietnam will require a passport copy. The country’s three primary cell phone operators – Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone – offer prepaid SIM cards with customizable data packages for travelers at reasonable prices.
Vaccination
Vaccinations are not mandatory for travelers before entering Vietnam, except for yellow fever if you arrive from affected areas. However, it is highly recommended to get vaccinations against diseases such as typhoid fever, cholera, hepatitis A and B, tetanus, polio, rabies, and Japanese encephalitis for your health and safety. Before traveling, consulting a healthcare professional for the latest vaccination advice and preventive measures is strongly advised.
Insurance
Travelers should secure comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses and evacuation costs. It’s crucial to carry the medications prescribed by your medical doctors, as access to specific medications may be limited at local destinations. Additionally, it’s advisable to purchase travel insurance that can provide coverage in case the trip is canceled or changed due to reasons beyond your control.
International hospitals in Vietnam
There are international hospitals in major cities in Vietnam, including:
Hanoi: Vinmec International Hospital, Hanoi French Hospital, Thu Cuc International General Hospital
Danang: Vinmec Danang International Hospital
Ho Chi Minh City: Vinmec Central Park International Hospital, Vinmec Grand Park International Hospital, City International Hospital, American International Hospital.
Public Transportation
Traveling within and between major cities, especially in key destinations like Hanoi, Hue, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City, is quite convenient. These cities offer various transportation options, including buses, cyclos, taxis (both traditional and tech-based), and motorbikes (xe ôm). Trains and flights are preferred for longer journeys between cities and towns. Buses, taxis, and motorbikes are widely used for commuting within city centers.
For those with time to spare and a desire to savor Vietnam’s scenic beauty from North to South, the North-South train is a wonderful option. This 2,600-kilometer rail network managed by Vietnam Railways extends from Ho Chi Minh City to the Chinese border in the North. Several routes are highly recommended, such as the Central Heritage Connection from Da Nang to Hue (and vice versa), recently launched in March 2024. Another option is the Da Nang – Quy Nhon route, available through Vietnam Rail or the luxurious Vietage train by Anantara. Alternatively, travelers can opt for a longer journey from North to South, experiencing the diverse landscapes of Vietnam, from bustling city centers to tranquil rural areas, picturesque coastlines, and breathtaking mountainscapes. Train tickets can be easily purchased at train station counters, online, or through trusted local travel agencies.
Safety
While crime against foreigners in Vietnam is uncommon, travelers should exercise caution regarding petty theft, particularly in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, especially when traveling by bus or train. Avoid displaying cameras and cell phones openly on busy streets, as most thefts occur via drive-by snatchings. When taking photos on sidewalks, keep your camera close to you and away from traffic flow.
You should be vigilant in holding onto your bags, wallets, and purses while walking in Ho Chi Minh City. Avoid wearing too much luxury jewelry and displaying it obviously in crowds. Keep your important belongings and valuable items in the hotel safety box. In tourist areas, you may encounter persistent souvenir sellers; politely declining with a “No, thank you” is usually sufficient.
Taxi scams in Vietnam may involve rigged meters, overcharging, currency confusion, or fixed prices. These scams can be avoided by using transportation apps with fixed fares or arranging private car services through a trusted local travel agency.
Useful phone numbers
Police – 113
Fire and rescue – 114
Ambulance, First aid – 115