Essential Travel Information for Vietnam

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Vietnam really depends on which parts of the country you're planning to explore, as the climate can vary significantly from north to south due to the country's length. In general, the country has a tropical monsoon climate, with high humidity and temperatures ranging from 22°C (72°F) to 35°C (95°F) throughout the year.

North Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa)

The north has a cool, dry winter from November to April and a hot, wet summer from May to October. The months of December to February can be quite cool, especially in mountainous areas like Sapa where it can even snow on occasion. For comfortable temperatures and less rainfall, consider visiting between March and April or September to November.

Central Vietnam (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An)

Central Vietnam experiences a dry season from January to August and a wet, rainy season from September to December. During the rainy season, this area can be affected by typhoons. The best time to visit is typically between February and July, when rainfall is lower and temperatures are moderate.

South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc)

The south has a more tropical climate, with a wet season (May to November) and a dry season (December to April). During the wet season, rains tend to be short and heavy, usually in the afternoon. The dry season coincides with slightly cooler temperatures. Therefore, the best time to visit the southern regions is typically between December and April.

Remember, "best" times also tend to be peak tourist season, which can mean higher prices and more crowded attractions. If you prefer a more relaxed travel experience and don't mind some rain, the shoulder seasons can offer great experiences as well.

Each season and region has its own unique charm, so consider what type of climate and activities you prefer when planning your trip. Whether it's the lush, vibrant green of the rice terraces after the rains, or the clear blue skies and warm weather of the dry season, Vietnam offers stunning vistas all year round.

Festivals

Vietnam is rich in culture and tradition, and there are several major festivals throughout the year that can offer travelers a unique insight into the country's customs and heritage. Here are a few of the most notable:

• Tết (Vietnamese New Year): This is the most important festival in Vietnam. Celebrated on the same day as Chinese New Year (sometime between January 21 and February 20), Tết is a time for family reunions, feasting, and giving thanks. Cities are adorned with colorful decorations, and traditional foods like Bánh chưng (square rice cake) are prepared.

• Hội An Lantern Festival: Taking place on the 14th day of each lunar month in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hội An, this festival transforms the quaint town into a magical display of colorful lanterns. It's an experience not to be missed if you're in the area.

• Lim Festival: Held in Bac Ninh Province in February, this festival celebrates Quan Ho folk songs, which are performed as duets and have been recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.

• Perfume Pagoda Festival: This is one of the largest and longest annual festivals in Vietnam, lasting from February to March. Pilgrims from all over Vietnam travel to Huong Pagoda in Hanoi to pray for happiness and prosperity in the coming year.

• Hue Festival: A biennial event held in Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, usually in April or May. It showcases traditional and contemporary arts and culture from Vietnam and other countries.

• Mid-Autumn Festival: This festival is celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, usually in September. It's especially enjoyed by children, who parade the streets with colorful lanterns. Mooncakes are the traditional food of this festival.

Climate

Vietnam's climate is incredibly diverse due to the country's geographical range. Stretching over 1,000 miles from north to south, Vietnam encompasses a variety of climates, which can be broadly divided into three regions: the North, the Central, and the South.

North Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa)

North Vietnam has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. The summer (May to October) is hot and humid with heavy rainfall, while the winter (November to April) is cooler and relatively dry. In the mountainous areas like Sapa, temperatures in winter can drop to nearly freezing, with occasional snowfall. Summers are generally hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F).

Central Vietnam (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An)

Central Vietnam has a tropical monsoon climate, which is hot and dry from January to August and wet from September to December. Typhoons and heavy rains are common in the wet season. The temperatures range from 20°C to 35°C (68°F to 95°F) throughout the year. Coastal areas are generally warmer than the highlands.

South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc)

South Vietnam experiences a tropical savanna climate with two seasons: a wet season from May to November, and a dry season from December to April. The wet season is characterized by afternoon showers, which are often intense but brief. Temperatures remain fairly constant throughout the year, averaging around 27-32°C (80-90°F).

Packing Tips

Here are some tips for packing for a trip to Vietnam:

• Clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing due to Vietnam's generally warm, humid climate. If you're visiting the north or central highlands during the winter months, consider bringing some warmer layers as it can get quite cool, especially in the evenings. Consider culturally appropriate clothing as well, such as covering shoulders and knees when visiting temples or religious sites.

• Rain Gear: Depending on the season and region you're visiting, it could be worthwhile to bring a lightweight, packable rain jacket or poncho, as well as waterproof shoes or sandals.

• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring cities or historical sites. If you plan on going to the beach or spending time around water, don't forget your flip-flops or water shoes.

• Sun Protection: A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential, as the sun can be intense.

• Bug Spray: Mosquitoes can be prevalent in many areas, so it's advisable to bring insect repellent, especially if you're traveling to rural or jungle areas.

• Health Items: While you can find most things in Vietnam, you may want to pack any specific medications you need, travel sickness tablets if you're prone to motion sickness, and perhaps a basic first-aid kit.

• Travel Adapter: Vietnam uses Type A and Type C outlets, so make sure to bring a suitable adapter for charging your electronic devices.

• Water Bottle: Tap water in Vietnam isn't generally safe to drink, but many hotels and hostels have water dispensers where you can refill a reusable water bottle.

• Toilet Paper/Hand Sanitizer: These can be handy to carry around during the day, as not all public restrooms in Vietnam will have these amenities.

• Money: Bring a mix of cash and cards. Cards are widely accepted in big cities and tourist areas, but smaller, local vendors may only accept cash. There are ATMs throughout the country where you can withdraw cash if needed.

• Other Useful Items: Consider packing a lightweight, reusable shopping bag (many places in Vietnam have banned plastic bags), a photocopy of your passport, and a small phrasebook or language app to help with communication.

Currency

The official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese dong (VND). This is the only currency that is universally accepted for all transactions within the country.

Notes come in denominations of 1,000; 2,000; 5,000; 10,000; 20,000; 50,000; 100,000; 200,000; and 500,000 dong. Coins, in the denominations of 200; 1,000; 2,000; and 5,000 dong, are minted but are rarely used in daily transactions.

US dollars are sometimes accepted in tourist areas, hotels, and higher-end restaurants, but the exchange rate may not be favorable. It's always best to have some Vietnamese dong for everyday transactions, particularly at smaller businesses and in more rural areas where only local currency is accepted.

ATMs are widely available in most cities and towns throughout Vietnam. They dispense Vietnamese dong and often have English language instructions. However, it's important to be aware of withdrawal fees and limits; your home bank may also charge international withdrawal fees. To get the best exchange rate, it can be a good idea to withdraw money from ATMs and use cash.

Credit and debit cards, particularly Visa and MasterCard, are increasingly accepted in major cities and tourist areas in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. However, smaller businesses, market stalls, and transportation services often still require cash.

Bargaining

Bargaining is a common practice in Vietnam, particularly in markets and smaller shops. When shopping, feel free to negotiate prices, but do so in a polite and respectful manner. Remember to smile and maintain a friendly attitude during the process.

Communication

Language:

The official language of Vietnam is Vietnamese, a tonal language that can be quite challenging for non-native speakers to learn due to its six different tones that can change the meaning of words. The language uses a Latin alphabet (unlike many other East Asian languages), which can make reading signs and maps easier for Western tourists.

In the major cities and tourist areas, English is commonly spoken in hotels, restaurants, and shops. Many younger Vietnamese people study English in school, so you'll often find that younger people have some proficiency. However, in more rural areas and among the older population, English is less commonly spoken.

Having a basic Vietnamese phrasebook or translation app can be helpful for more complex interactions, and learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases is appreciated by locals.

WiFi:

WiFi is widely available and typically free in hotels, hostels, restaurants, cafes, and many public places in the major cities and tourist areas. The speed and reliability of the connection can vary, especially outside urban areas. If consistent internet access is important to you during your trip, consider purchasing a local SIM card with data.

Phone Service:

Vietnam's mobile network coverage is good in urban areas and major tourist destinations but can be less reliable in remote or mountainous areas. The country has several mobile network operators, including Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone.

It's quite easy and inexpensive to buy a local SIM card upon arrival, which will give you a local number and access to cheap domestic calls and mobile data. SIM cards can be purchased at the airport, mobile phone stores, and even some convenience stores. You will usually need to show your passport to purchase a SIM card.

You can buy prepaid credit (often called "top-up cards") for your SIM card at various outlets. Make sure your phone is unlocked to accept a foreign SIM card.

Remember that communication apps like WhatsApp, Viber, or Skype can be handy for making calls or sending messages over WiFi without incurring mobile network charges.

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not traditionally part of the culture in Vietnam, but it has become more commonplace, particularly in larger cities and tourist areas. However, it's not mandatory, and you should never feel obliged to tip. Here's some guidance:

Restaurants: Service charge (usually 5-10%) is added in more upscale restaurants. If service charge is not added, a tip of around 10% of the bill is appreciated for good service. In local restaurants or street food stalls, tipping is not expected.

Hotels: For hotel staff like bellboys or housekeeping, a small tip (around 10,000 - 20,000 VND) is appreciated but not required.

Taxis/Ride Services: For taxi drivers or ride services like Grab, rounding up the fare or leaving a small tip (10,000 - 20,000 VND) is common but not obligatory.

Tour Guides: If you're on a guided tour, tipping your guide is a nice gesture if you enjoyed the tour. A suggested amount might be 50,000 - 100,000 VND per person per day for a group tour, or more for a private tour, depending on the quality of the tour and the guide.

Spas/Salons: In spas or for personal services, if you're pleased with the service, consider tipping around 10-15% of the bill.

Electric Plugs

In Vietnam, the power plugs and sockets are of type A, C, and D. Here's what that means:

• Type A: This is a flat two-pin plug (also known as a North American plug), which is also common in the US, Canada, Mexico, and Japan.

• Type C: This is the standard Europlug with two round pins, common throughout Europe.

• Type D: This plug has three round pins in a triangular pattern. However, it's not common in Vietnam and Type A and C are generally more used.

The standard voltage in Vietnam is 220 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. This means that if you come from a country with 110 V standards (like the US), you might need a voltage converter for your devices, not just a plug adapter.

Most modern electronics (like laptops, smartphones, and digital cameras) come with chargers that can handle voltages from 100 V to 240 V, 50-60 Hz. You can check the small print on the charger or device to confirm. If your device is not dual-voltage, you'll need a converter.

It's always a good idea to bring a universal adapter when traveling to accommodate different types of sockets. But keep in mind that in tourist areas and many hotels, you often find multiple types of sockets to accommodate travelers.

Sustainable Travel Tips

Sustainable travel is all about minimizing your impact on the environment, society, and economy of the places you visit. Here are some sustainable travel tips for your trip to Vietnam:

1. Responsible Transportation:

Try to use public transportation, bicycles, or simply walk whenever possible. This not only reduces your carbon footprint, but also allows you to experience local life more closely. Many cities in Vietnam, like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, have great public transportation systems.

2. Support Local Economy:

Choose to support local businesses over international chains. This includes shopping at local markets, eating at local restaurants, and choosing locally-owned accommodations. This helps ensure that your money goes directly into the local economy.

3. Be Mindful of Resources:

Just like at home, try to conserve water and energy. This can be as simple as taking shorter showers, turning off the lights and AC when leaving your hotel room, or reusing your towels for more than one day.

4. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle:

Try to minimize your waste. Avoid single-use plastics, carry a reusable water bottle, bring your own shopping bag, and refuse unnecessary packaging.

5. Respect Cultural Differences:

Take time to learn about Vietnamese culture and traditions. Be respectful of local customs and dress codes, especially when visiting religious or cultural sites.

6. Eco-friendly Tours:

Choose tour operators that follow environmentally friendly practices and give back to the local community. Avoid tours that involve unethical animal interactions.

7. Protect the Environment:

Don't litter, and try to pick up any rubbish you might see while trekking or exploring nature. Avoid disturbing wildlife or removing natural resources.

8. Water Safety:

As tap water in Vietnam is generally not safe to drink, consider treating tap water with a portable water purifier instead of buying bottled water to reduce plastic waste.

Tips for Families

Vietnam is a great destination for families, offering a mix of culture, adventure, history, and beautiful landscapes. Here are some tips for families visiting Vietnam:

1. Select Family-Friendly Accommodation:

Choose accommodations that are family-friendly. Many hotels in Vietnam offer family rooms or connecting rooms. Some also offer babysitting services and have child-friendly amenities like pools or play areas.

2. Plan Your Itinerary Wisely:

Include a variety of activities that are fun and educational for kids. Vietnam has a lot of attractions suitable for children like water puppet shows, amusement parks, and interactive museums. Also, consider destinations with nature such as the beach towns of Nha Trang and Da Nang or the mountain town of Sapa.

3. Be Prepared for the Weather:

The weather can vary significantly across Vietnam. Pack suitable clothing for the expected weather in the regions you'll be visiting. Remember essentials like hats, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

4. Consider Health and Safety:

Ensure that your family is up-to-date on routine vaccinations, and consider any recommended travel vaccines. Also, remember that tap water is generally not safe to drink in Vietnam, so stick to bottled or purified water.

5. Food for Kids:

Vietnamese cuisine is delicious and diverse, but if your children are not used to it, they might need some time to adapt. Western food is readily available in most tourist areas if needed. Also, consider carrying snacks your kids enjoy.

6. Public Transport:

Vietnam's traffic, particularly in big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, can be chaotic and overwhelming. When traveling short distances within cities, consider reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing services like Grab for comfort and safety.

7. Plan for Rest:

Traveling can be tiring for kids, so plan some downtime in your schedule. This could be as simple as a midday break back at the hotel, a leisurely day at the beach, or a quiet evening meal.

8. Respect the Culture:

Teach your kids about the local culture and customs of Vietnam. This could include simple language phrases, appropriate dress when visiting temples, or understanding local etiquette.

9. Pack Essentials:

Remember to pack essentials such as diapers, baby food, or medication as they might not be readily available everywhere, especially if you are traveling to more remote areas.

Remember, traveling with children can be unpredictable, so leave room for flexibility in your plans. Enjoy the experience of exploring a new culture together as a family!

Useful Local Apps

Here is a list of useful local apps in Vietnam:

• Grab: A popular ride-hailing app that provides various transportation options, including motorbike taxis (GrabBike) and car rides (GrabCar). It also offers food delivery (GrabFood) and parcel delivery (GrabExpress).

• GoViet: Similar to Grab, GoViet is a multi-service app that offers ride-hailing services, food delivery, and parcel delivery. It's a good alternative to Grab and operates in many major cities in Vietnam.

• MoMo: A mobile payment app widely used in Vietnam. MoMo allows users to transfer money, pay bills, purchase goods and services, and even withdraw cash at partnered stores or ATMs. It's a convenient and secure digital wallet.

• Zalo: A popular messaging and calling app in Vietnam. Zalo offers free text and voice messaging, as well as video calls. It also features social networking functions, news updates, and various entertainment services.

• Foody: A food and restaurant discovery app that helps users find nearby restaurants, read reviews, view menus, and make reservations. Foody provides information on a wide range of dining options, including street food stalls, cafes, and high-end restaurants.

• VTV Go: An app that allows users to watch live TV channels and access video-on-demand content from Vietnam Television (VTV). It offers a wide range of programs, including news, entertainment, sports, and documentaries.

• AirVisual: An app that provides real-time air quality information in Vietnam, particularly in major cities. AirVisual displays air pollution levels, including PM2.5, and offers health recommendations. It can be helpful for those concerned about air quality.

• Vietnammm: A food delivery app that partners with various restaurants and allows users to order meals for delivery or pickup. Vietnammm offers a wide selection of cuisines, making it easy to satisfy different food cravings.

• VnExpress: A popular Vietnamese news website that provides news and information about Vietnam in English.

• Xe hoi: A bus booking app that allows you to book tickets for buses traveling between major cities in Vietnam. This can be a cheaper alternative to flying or taking a taxi.

• Maps.me: A offline map app that allows you to download maps of Vietnam for offline use. This can be helpful if you don't have access to internet or data.

• Google Translate: A translation app that can translate text between Vietnamese and over 100 other languages. This can be helpful if you don't speak Vietnamese or if you need to communicate with someone who doesn't speak English.