Travel Vietnam – Everything You Need to Know

Why Travel to Vietnam

Among other Southeast Asian countries like Thailand, Cambodia, Indonesia, and Myanmar, what special appeal does Vietnam have? Here are the top 5 reasons why Vietnam is a fantastic destination!

Breathtaking Landscapes

A Rich Cultural Heritage

When Vietnam is mentioned, it is impossible not to mention its cultural wealth. With its 54 distinct ethnic groups, the country is a true melting pot of unique traditions that contribute to its exceptional diversity. Vietnam remains faithful to its age-old customs, thus offering visitors a true journey through time. From colorful festivals to traditional ceremonies, from local craftsmanship to culinary customs, every aspect of Vietnamese culture testifies to its rich and fascinating heritage. You will be transported into a world where history blends harmoniously with the present, creating an immersive and engaging experience for travelers seeking authenticity.

Warm and Welcoming People

There’s nothing better than being in a foreign country but feeling at home, right? The kindness and hospitality of the Vietnamese will give you this feeling. Like many other neighboring Southeast Asian countries, Vietnam has a precious treasure: its people. Wherever you are in the country, you will be warmly welcomed by the local people whether you know them or not. The ethnic minorities of Sapa always treat you like a friend, even if you’re visiting their home for the first time. The residents of Hue are very friendly, those of Hoi An are known for their honesty. Local farmers in the Mekong Delta always welcome you into their families with enthusiastic smiles.

Flavorful Cuisine

Pho, Bun Cha, and spring rolls are probably very well-known dishes and even familiar to many international tourists. But did you know that Vietnamese cuisine is far richer? Different flavors, inviting aromas with the perfect delicate combination of numerous different ingredients, Vietnamese dishes will surely offer you an exciting experience! For food lovers who enjoy discovering street food, Vietnam is the perfect choice. Tasting these dishes allows you to experience something memorable, makes you feel a different life from that of your home country.

Also read: Popular Dishes in Vietnam

Affordable Prices

It can be said that money is one of the factors that determines whether your trip will happen or not. Good news: Vietnam is among Asia’s least expensive countries in terms of cost of living. Numerous popular restaurants serve specialties at reasonable prices. Transportation in Vietnam is also economical: bus tickets cost only about 3 or 4 USD. If you head to rural areas, you can rent bicycles to explore better for just 2 USD.

Additionally, entrance tickets to tourist attractions are not too expensive, generally 3-4 USD. Hotels in Vietnam also offer many types, from upscale to budget-friendly. You can also stay with a host family to save money and discover the life of local residents.

Preparing for a Trip to Vietnam

Planning a trip abroad should always be thorough and in-depth.

Once you have purchased your airline ticket, the first thing to do is check visa requirements. Today, for a trip of less than 15 days, you don’t need a visa, but for a longer stay, you need to apply for an online visa. It’s quite simple.

Next, it’s important to pack your luggage and first-aid kit well. Here are two articles that should help you:

Luggage and Clothing for Vietnam

Vietnam Travel First-Aid Kit

To help you gather the necessary information and prepare your Vietnam trip well, we invite you to consult our comprehensive article on the guide for a 15-day Vietnam tour: 15-Day Vietnam Tour

Indeed, 15 days is the ideal duration to help you get the best overview of the country. If your trip is longer or shorter than 15 days and you need specific advice, don’t hesitate to contact us, we’re always available to answer all your questions: Custom Quote

Tips for Traveling in Vietnam

Determine Your Itinerary Based on Your Preferences and Desires

We strongly recommend that you research the places to visit that best match your desires, in order to establish an initial travel plan that suits you best. For this, you can consult our various detailed articles, for example in “15-Day Vietnam Tour“.

Choose the Right Season According to Your Itinerary

Don’t Be Afraid of Heavy Traffic

Lively traffic and deafening car horns are the first impressions many visitors have of Vietnam. Traffic rules in the country aren’t as strict as in France, with scooters moving chaotically from all directions. However, crossing the street in Vietnam is not as difficult as it might seem. A simple trick is to walk alongside a local resident. Otherwise, you can simply cross slowly while gesturing with your hand, and Vietnamese drivers will slow down and let you pass.

Be Sure to Follow Temple Rituals

During your visit to Vietnam, it is essential to take into account some rules and tips when exploring the temples and pagodas of the country. These sacred sites are unmissable destinations that deserve your respect. Here are some important recommendations to follow:

1. Dress Code: During your walks outside temples and pagodas, you can wear comfortable clothes. However, if you plan to visit the interior of these sacred places, it’s better to avoid clothes that are too short or revealing. Opt for modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, as a sign of respect toward Vietnamese culture and spirituality.
2. Respect for Prayer: When inside a temple or pagoda, make sure you don’t walk between a person who is praying and the Buddha statue. Wait patiently for prayers to be finished before moving around.
3. Photography: In many cases, photography is allowed, but it’s important to turn off the flash to avoid disturbing the serenity of the place. Also, be careful to respect the signs that indicate areas where photography is prohibited.

By following these simple tips, you will be able to fully appreciate your visit to Vietnam’s temples and pagodas while showing appropriate respect for the culture and spirituality of this fascinating country.

Negotiate the Price

It’s important to note that some vendors may sometimes try to profit from tourists by charging inflated prices. Although prices may seem affordable compared to those in your home country, you might be surprised to find that they can be even lower! When you’re in local markets, it’s possible to negotiate the price of items, and if that seems too difficult, don’t hesitate to ask for help from a local resident. This trick can prove very useful and help you save money during your shopping.

Take Care of Your Belongings

Vietnam is generally a safe country, provided you don’t draw attention to your valuables. Avoid leaving precious items like money or phones visible when you’re away. When you’re on very busy streets, it’s preferable not to keep valuables in your pants pockets. It’s recommended to keep your phone in a closed bag and avoid taking photos in crowded places. By taking these precautions, you will reduce the risks of theft and loss during your stay in Vietnam.

Activities Not to Miss During Your Trip to Vietnam

Stay with a Host Family

The best way to deepen your understanding of a people and their culture is to experience their life up close. Sharing daily activities, savoring culinary specialties, toasting together, dancing and singing in harmony… All of these experiences will offer you unique and unforgettable moments.

In Vietnam, it’s possible to stay with a host family almost anywhere, whether in cities, countryside, or mountains. However, for a truly authentic and unique experience, we recommend heading to the mountainous region of the north. This region, which is a gathering point for numerous ethnic minorities, will immerse you in the heart of vibrant cultural colors. Additionally, the peaceful landscapes you will find there will make your experience even more fantastic.

Here are some possible options: staying with the Thai in Mai Chau or Pu Luong, with the Tay in Nghia Lo, with the Hmong in Bac Ha, with the Giay in Sapa, and many others still.

Take a Cruise in Ha Long Bay or on Cat Ba Island

However, its popularity is also the reason that Ha Long Bay is often very crowded. If you still want to experience this activity, we recommend Cat Ba Island, for a cruise in Lan Ha Bay. With a beauty that is not inferior to Ha Long, with preserved wild landscapes, crystal-clear water, Cat Ba is a perfect alternative for tourists who love tranquility and want to avoid mass tourism.

Beautiful video of Ha Long Bay

Discover the Terraced Rice Fields

When thinking of Vietnam, who hasn’t heard of the vast rice fields that are considered one of the symbols of the country? They are present throughout the country, but those in northern Vietnam are the most spectacular. In this mountainous region, rice fields sculpture the mountains and arrange themselves in terraces, creating landscapes of rare beauty.

If you want to observe beautiful terraced fields, there are two periods not to be missed: May to June and September to October. From May to June, the terraced fields become flooded, reflecting like mirrors, creating breathtaking beauty that amazes visitors. On the other hand, from September to October, it’s the season of ripe rice, the terraced fields wear their beautiful yellow clothing. It’s the perfect time for beautiful photos!

Sapa, Mu Cang Chai, Hoang Su Phi, Ha Giang, or Pu Luong,… are renowned destinations for admiring the beautiful terraced rice fields.

Visit the Market

Weekly Markets in Northern Regions

List of recommended weekly markets:

– Bac Ha Market: Located about 65 km from Lao Cai city and 135 km from Sapa, Bac Ha is considered the largest and most famous market in northern Vietnam. This market is held every Sunday morning. This place is like a garden of luminous flowers with brocade colors.

– Coc Ly Market: Located about 25 km west of Bac Ha. This market is held every Tuesday morning and is frequented by the Hoa Mong, Black Dao, and Phu La ethnicities.

– Can Cau Market: Located 30 km north of Bac Ha, on the road to Simacai, this weekly market is held every Saturday morning.

– Meo Vac Market: This is a larger market in Ha Giang, held every Sunday. This colorful market is highly recommended for your stay in northern Vietnam.

Floating Markets in the Mekong Delta

List of recommended floating markets

– Cai Rang Market: Located 6 km from Can Tho city or 30 minutes of cruising from Ninh Kieu pier. It’s an essential destination famous as one of the largest floating markets in the entire Delta. This market is open all day but is most active around 9 in the morning.

– Cai Be Market: Located 45 km from My Tho and 80 km from Can Tho, this market has become one of the favorite destinations for tourists passing through the region. Although it’s open from 5 in the morning to 5 in the afternoon, to feel the lively rhythm of life, we recommend visiting it very early in the morning.

– Long Xuyen Market: Located on the Hau River, 2 km from Long Xuyen city, An Giang province, the floating market of Long Xuyen is still authentic, rarely visited. This market opens only for a few hours in the morning, between 6 and 9.

Our Circuit Recommendations

You have probably already gathered useful basic information for a trip to Vietnam. If you want to build your own itinerary for your Vietnam trip, we invite you to refer to our comprehensive article with some options according to your tastes:

– North Vietnam Stay

– North to South Tour

– 15-Day Vietnam Tour

If you’re looking for a carefully designed itinerary to help you explore Vietnam comprehensively, we propose some of our circuits:

1. Aroma of Spring in Vietnam 14 Days

This circuit offers you a discovery from North to South of Vietnam, in a fun way. Perfect to do as a family or as a couple. This stay will reveal to you the most interesting cultural and historical sites while also allowing you to meet the local populations.

2. Flavors and Colors of Vietnam in 9 Days and 8 Nights

This circuit allows you to discover northern Vietnam and its extraordinary landscapes. The rice fields, the kindness of the local populations and their traditions will amaze you. This stay offers numerous authentic encounters and reveals all the beauty of Northern Vietnam.

3. Charm of Vietnam and Phu Quoc 17 Days

This beautiful 17-day stay in Vietnam is designed to offer you a journey from North to South of the country discovering a universe of a thousand attractions. It concludes with a very sweet and relaxing stage on the paradisiacal island of Phu Quoc, a pearl of the Southwest of the country renowned for its pristine natural beauty beaches.