Vietnam's Cultural Spectacle: A Journey Through Hoi An Memories
Vietnam: Discover Stunning Landscapes, Rich Traditions, and Culinary Delights
Your Guide to the Land of the Blue Dragon
Vietnam is the first country in South Asia that we have traveled to since we settled semi-permanently in Thailand. We enjoy a week long visit, split in two between the cities of Danang & Hoi An. We really wanted a taste of Vietnamese culture and we found just that at some awesome spots, including the Hoi An Lantern Festival, Hoi An Memories and Marble Mountain. Stay tuned as we bring you the best of our time here and as much information (we hope) as you need to plan your stay in Vietnam.
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Our interactive map & guide to Vietnam
Check out all of the places we visited in Vietnam courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more.
Wanderlog is a free travel planning app that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use!
Here are 8 interesting facts about Vietnam. Some may just surprise you!
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1. In Chinese, 'Viet' means 'people outside China' and 'Nam' means south. While we use them both combined today, they were also separate words in ancient Vietnamese. 'Viet' actually referred to fairies and dragons, and as such many people in Vietnam believe they have descended from these mythical creatures.
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2. Vietnam is known as the 'King of Cashews', given they produce a staggering 55% of the world's supply, to the tune of a cool $2 billion per year. 30% of the world's supply of black pepper also comes from Vietnam and the country is the second largest exporter of coffee behind Brazil.
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3. New Year's is celebrated on the same day as the Chinese New Year in Vietnam. It is known as 'Tet' and is one of the most popular festivals in South Asia.
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4. People in Vietnam really like motorcycles. In fact, there are over 60 million in the country, with 2 out of every 3 households owning one. In comparison there are just 2 million cars!
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5. Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam's very first president, can be viewed at his mausoleum in Hanoi. Since his death in 1969, he was embalmed and is on display from January to September every year.
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6. Snake Wine is a hugely popular drink in Vietnam said to have many health benefits, although most claims are unproven. It is usually made by drowning the snake alive and we are yet to try it. Would you?
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7. The largest cave in the world, Hang Son Doong, is in the Quįŗ£ng Bình Province of Vietnam. It stretches for almost 6 miles and it is said that it is so big inside that a Boeing 747 could fly right through it!
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8. The star on the Vietnamese flag represents the five main classes in society: intellectuals, farmers, workers, youth and military personnel. The red background represents the blood lost during the years of conflict in the country.
Why are hanging lanterns and festivals so popular in Vietnam?
Magic in the Moonlight: Exploring Hoi An Night Market and lighting a candle at the Lantern Festival
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Information
POPULATION
97.4 million
CURRENCY
Vietnamese Dong (VND)
CAPITAL
Hanoi (6.4 million)
DRIVING
Right Side
TIME ZONE
ICT (UTC / GMT + 7)
MEASUREMENTS
Standard Metric
Weather & Climate
Vietnam's weather offers a captivating blend of tropical and temperate zones, influenced by the annual monsoon cycle. While the south boasts year-round warmth, the north experiences distinct seasons. Understanding these variations will help you pack appropriately and plan your adventures around the most favorable conditions.
āŖ¢ Seasons in Vietnam
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ā Dry Season (November - April): Generally considered the best time to visit most of Vietnam. This period offers sunny skies, low humidity, and pleasant temperatures, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
ā Wet Season (May - October): Characterized by increased rainfall, especially in central regions. While some areas might experience daily downpours, these are usually short-lived, followed by sunshine. Lush landscapes and fewer crowds are highlights of this season.
āŖ¢ Regional Variations
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ā North: Hanoi and surrounding areas have distinct seasons. Winters can be cool with occasional drizzles, while summers are hot and humid.
ā Central Vietnam: Da Nang and Hoi An experience a tropical monsoon climate with hot, dry summers and wetter winters with occasional typhoons.
ā South: Ho Chi Minh City and Phu Quoc Island enjoy consistent warmth year-round with high humidity. Rainfall is more evenly distributed throughout the year.
āŖ¢ Extreme Weather
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ā Typhoons: āWhile uncommon, typhoons can hit central and northern Vietnam between July and November. Staying updated on weather forecasts and following local advisories is crucial during this period.
āŖ¢ Advice for Tourists
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ā Pack for the Season: Research the weather patterns for the specific regions you'll be visiting to pack suitable clothing and footwear.
ā Embrace the Rain: A light raincoat or foldable umbrella is handy during the wet season, especially for sudden downpours.
ā Sunscreen & Hydration: The strong Vietnamese sun is present year-round. Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection. Stay hydrated, especially during hot and humid months.
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By understanding Vietnam's diverse weather patterns, you can choose the ideal time to visit specific regions and pack accordingly. Embrace the beauty of each season, and get ready to experience the magic of Vietnam!
Visa Requirements
Vietnam's visa policy is designed to be welcoming to tourists, with visa exemptions and various visa options depending on your nationality and travel duration. By understanding these requirements and planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth visa application process and a hassle-free entry into Vietnam.
Here's a breakdown to ensure a smooth entry process:
āŖ¢ Visa Exemptions (Visa-free Entry)
As of 2024, citizens of 25 countries can travel to Vietnam without having to apply for a visa. To enter Vietnam, you only need a valid passport with at least two blank pages for stamping. You can find the full list of visa-free countries here. However, if your country is not on the visa exemption list, then you will need to obtain a visa to enter Vietnam.
āŖ¢ Visa Requirements
If your nationality isn't listed for visa exemption, you'll need to obtain a visa before your trip. Here are the main types:
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ā E-visa (Electronic Visa): This convenient option allows online application for single or multiple entries with a validity period of 30 days.
ā Visa on Arrival (VOA): Obtainable at designated Vietnamese airports upon arrival. Requires pre-approval from a licensed travel agency in Vietnam. Ideal for those who haven't planned their trip in detail.
ā Embassy / Consulate Visa: Applicable for longer stays, business trips, or other purposes. Requires application at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your home country.
āŖ¢ General Visa Application Process
The process varies depending on the visa type, but generally involves submitting the following:
1. Completed application form
2. Valid passport with sufficient blank pages
3. Passport-sized photos
4. Visa application fee
5. Additional documents specific to the visa type (e.g., proof of onward travel for VOA)
āŖ¢ Tips
ā Start early: Allow ample processing time, especially for embassy / consulate visas.
ā Double-check requirements: Ensure you have all the necessary documents to avoid delays.
ā Validity & Extensions: Pay attention to your visa's validity period and extension possibilities.
Please note that these are general requirements, and specific documentation and criteria may vary depending on your individual circumstances and the visa category you are applying for.
This information is also subject to change at any time and has been obtained through research. We always recommended you visit the official Vietnamese Government Website for the most up-to-date and detailed information regarding visa requirements.
Currency
The official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). It's advisable to carry some local currency for small expenses, and cash is one of the most popular payment methods, but major credit cards are widely accepted in most tourist areas.
Convert your currency here.
āŖ¢ Currency
āSpeaking of cash, it is worth noting the extreme values of it. For example, at time of writing, $1 USD will get you around 24,000 Vietnamese Dong. To put that in perspective, the average coffee will set you back around 60k Dong. It does take a while to get used to all the zeros on everything! The high numbers on banknotes can seem intimidating at first, reflecting Vietnam's developing economy and lower inflation compared to some currencies.
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ā Abbreviation: Vietnam's official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). It's symbolized by ā«.
ā Coins: Coins are rarely used in everyday transactions and come in denominations of 200 VND, 500 VND, 1,000 VND, 2,000 VND, and 5,000 VND.
ā Banknotes: Paper notes come in denominations of 100 ā« (rarely used), 200 ā« (rarely used), 500 ā«, 1,000 ā«, 2,000 ā«, 5,000 ā«, 10,000 ā«, 20,000 ā«, 50,000 ā«, 100,000 ā«, 200,000 ā«, and 500,000 ā«.
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āŖ¢ Payment Systems
ā Cash: Still widely accepted, especially in rural areas and for smaller transactions.
ā Credit/Debit Cards: Major international cards like Visa and Mastercard are accepted in many tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. Be sure to check for any foreign transaction fees from your bank.
ā ATMs: Widely available in cities and tourist areas, allowing you to withdraw VND using your international debit or credit card. Fees may apply, so check with your bank beforehand.
ā Mobile Wallets: Vietnam has a high adoption rate for mobile wallets. Popular options include MoMo, ZaloPay, and ViettelPay. While these are convenient for locals, using them as a foreigner might be more challenging due to registration requirements often linked to Vietnamese bank accounts.
ā Contactless Payments: Many businesses and taxi services now accept contactless payments using Visa or Mastercard credit/debit cards equipped with tap-to-pay technology. While contactless payments are gaining traction, they might not be universally accepted, particularly in smaller towns or rural areas.
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āŖ¢ Foreign Currency
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ā Currency Exchange: While some shops might accept USD or EUR directly, exchanging your currency for VND is recommended. Compare rates before exchanging, and avoid unlicensed money changers.
āŖ¢ ATMs
āATMs are readily available in most cities and tourist areas. Look for ATMs affiliated with major international networks like Visa or Mastercard. Be aware of withdrawal limits and potential fees.
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āŖ¢ Payment Apps
While mobile wallets are popular in Vietnam, using them as a foreigner might be challenging due to registration processes often linked to Vietnamese bank accounts. For most visitors, relying on cash, credit cards, and ATMs will likely be sufficient.
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āŖ¢ Tips for Visitors
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ā Carry a mix of cash and card: This offers flexibility for different situations.
ā Inform your bank: Let your bank know you'll be using your card abroad to avoid any issues.
ā Budget in withdrawal fees: Factor in potential ATM fees when planning your expenses.
ā Consider a travel card: Prepaid travel cards can be a convenient option to manage your spending.
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By understanding these points and planning your payment options in advance, you'll be well-equipped to navigate purchases and expenses during your visit to Vietnam.
Language
Vietnamese, also known as Tiįŗæng Viį»t, is the official language of Vietnam and spoken by the vast majority of the population. It's a unique member of the Austroasiatic language family, distinct from neighboring tonal languages like Chinese.
While dialects exist, the national language is based on the speech of Hanoi and uses the Latin alphabet with diacritical marks.
āŖ¢ Dialects & History
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ā Mon-Khmer Origins: Vietnamese belongs to the Austroasiatic family, unrelated to most other Southeast Asian languages.
ā Chinese Influence: Over centuries, Chinese loanwords and characters influenced Vietnamese vocabulary and writing system.
ā Latin Alphabet Adoption: In the early 20th century, the Vietnamese alphabet was Romanized with diacritics to reflect tones.
ā Dialects: Several regional dialects exist, but the northern dialect forms the basis for the national language.
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āŖ¢ English Proficiency
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ā Generally Low: English proficiency, especially in tourist areas, is growing but can be inconsistent. Learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases will go a long way.
ā Limited English: While some restaurants and shops, particularly in tourist areas, might have English menus or signage, it's not guaranteed. Popular tourist areas often do include English translations, however.
ā Visual Aids: Many restaurants display food pictures alongside menus, which can help you decipher options.
ā Translation Apps: Consider using mobile translation apps to assist with deciphering signs or menus.
āŖ¢ Understanding for Foreigners
Vietnamese pronunciation can be challenging for foreigners due to its tonal nature. However, locals appreciate the effort to speak their language.
āŖ¢ Useful Vietnamese Phrases
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Greetings
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ā Xin chào (sin chao) - Hello
ā Chào buį»i sáng (chao buoi sang) - Good morning
ā Chào buį»i trĘ°a (chao buoi trua) - Good afternoon
ā Chào buį»i tį»i (chao buoi toi) - Good evening
Common Expressions
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ā Cįŗ£m Ę”n (cam on) - Thank you
ā Không sao (khong sao) - You're welcome
ā Xin lį»i (sin loi) - Excuse me
ā Vâng (vang) - Yes
ā Không (khong) - No
ā Bao nhiêu tiį»n (bao nhieu tien) - How much?
Getting Around
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ā Äi Äâu vįŗy? (di dau vay) - Where are you going?
ā Tôi muį»n Äi... (toi muon di...) - I want to go to...
ā Ga xe lį»a (ga xe lua) - Train station
ā Bįŗæn xe buýt (benh xe buyt) - Bus stop
ā Taxi (taxi) - Taxi
Numbers (1-10)
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ā Mį»t (mot) - One
ā Hai (hai) - Two
ā Ba (ba) - Three
ā Bį»n (bon) - Four
ā NÄm (nam) - Five
ā Sáu (sau) - Six
ā Bįŗ£y (bay) - Seven
ā Tám (tam) - Eight
ā Chín (chin) - Nine
ā MĘ°į»i (muoi) - Ten
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Phrases at Restaurants
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ā Tôi muį»n gį»i món này (toi muon goi mon nay) - I would like to order this
ā Cho tôi tính tiį»n (cho toi tinh tien) - Can I have the bill?
ā Ngon quá! (ngon qua!) - It's delicious!
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By learning and practicing these basic phrases, you'll be able to have simple conversations, express gratitude, and navigate everyday situations more confidently during your visit to Vietnam.
Transportation
Navigating Vietnam is a breeze with a well-developed transportation network catering to various budgets and travel styles.
From budget-friendly buses to scenic train rides and the iconic motorbike experience, getting around offers options for everyone. Here are your main options:
āŖ¢ Long Distances
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ā Flights: Domestic flights are a convenient and time-saving option for traveling between major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Phu Quoc Island. Airlines like Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Bamboo Airways offer competitive fares. Be mindful of potential cancellations, so consider booking connecting flights with a buffer day.
ā Trains: Trains offer a scenic and relatively affordable way to travel long distances. The Reunification Express railway line connects Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, with stops at various points along the way. Sleeper berths provide a comfortable option for overnight journeys.
āŖ¢ Mid-Distances and Within Cities
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ā Buses: Buses are a budget-friendly way to travel between cities and towns. Different classes offer varying levels of comfort, with VIP buses offering the most legroom and amenities. Public buses within cities can be crowded, so consider ride-sharing apps like Grab or Be for a more convenient option.
ā Taxis: Taxis are readily available in most cities and tourist areas. Metered taxis are the preferred choice to avoid haggling. Popular companies include Mai Linh and Vinasun. Ride-sharing apps like Grab and Be offer cashless convenience and can sometimes be cheaper than taxis.
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āŖ¢ Short Distances & Exploration
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ā Motorbikes: Motorbikes are a quintessential Vietnamese experience, offering freedom and flexibility. However, navigating traffic, especially in cities, can be chaotic. Renting a motorbike is affordable, but ensure you have a valid international motorcycle license and prioritize safety by wearing a helmet.
ā Cyclos: These three-wheeled bicycle taxis are a charming way to explore cities, especially in Hanoi's Old Quarter. Negotiate the fare beforehand and enjoy the leisurely pace.
āŖ¢ Other Options
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ā Boats: Ferries connect mainland Vietnam to islands like Phu Quoc and Cat Ba. Boat cruises on Ha Long Bay are a popular way to experience this stunning natural wonder.
ā Private Cars: Hiring a car with a driver can be a comfortable option for groups or those seeking a customized itinerary. However, it's generally more expensive compared to other options.
āŖ¢ Additional Tips
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ā Research routes & schedules: Plan your journeys in advance, especially for long distances or popular routes.
ā Consider travel time & budget: Weigh the time savings of flights against the affordability of buses or trains.
ā Factor in luggage limitations: Be aware of baggage restrictions when choosing transportation modes.
ā Download ride-sharing apps: Grab and Be are popular choices for convenient and cashless taxi alternatives.
ā Purchase a local SIM card: Having data access allows you to use navigation apps and stay connected while traveling.
ā Road Safety: The sheer volume of motorcycles is something you should be very prepared for before visiting Vietnam. Crossing roads can be quite the challenge, so it is vital you keep your wits about you! Also you will hear honking a great deal here. Perhaps because of the sometimes erratic motorcycles, and blind spots, honking is used by drivers as a form of warning rather than as a sign of irritation. The use of indicators is also not very common, and bikes tend to overtake from any side, so using the horn has become the norm for road safety.
With its efficient and diverse transportation network, getting around Vietnam is relatively straight-forward. By considering your needs, budget, and the distances involved, you can choose the most suitable option for each leg of your journey.
Culture & Customs
Vietnamese culture is a rich tapestry woven from ancient traditions, respect for hierarchy, and a strong sense of community. It prioritizes harmony, with a focus on politeness and indirect communication. The Vietnamese people have a rich cultural heritage, and it's important to respect their customs and traditions. Here's a glimpse into some of the key aspects you'll encounter:ā
āŖ¢ Respectful Interactions
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ā Greetings: A slight bow or nod with a "xin chao" (hello) is customary. Respect for elders is paramount, so greet them first.
ā Non-verbal Cues: A smile goes a long way, and avoiding raised voices or public displays of affection shows respect.
ā Gifts: When invited to a home, bring a small gift like fruit or flowers. Use two hands when offering or receiving anything.
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āŖ¢ Harmony & Group Dynamics
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ā Collectivism: The group takes precedence over the individual. Decisions are often made collaboratively.
ā Saving Face: Public criticism or confrontation is avoided to maintain social harmony.
ā Indirect Communication: Vietnamese tend to be indirect in their communication, so pay attention to nonverbal cues.
āŖ¢ Daily Life & Customs
ā āDress Code: While Vietnam is becoming more modern, it's still a conservative country, particularly in rural areas and religious sites. Dress modestly and respectfully, covering your shoulders and knees, when visiting temples or pagodas.
ā āāShoes Off: Remove shoes when entering a temple or home.
ā āāBargaining: Haggling is definitely common in Vietnam and is even expected, especially at markets. Never feel bad at trying your hand at asking for a discount.
ā āāSmoking: It is legal to smoke cigarettes in public spaces in general, and anywhere in the countryside in Vietnam.
ā Greeting People: Shaking hands is typically the best way to meet and greet with the locals. A slight nod of the head is also a show of respect in Vietnam.
ā Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in Vietnam, although it is gratefully accepted. Most restaurants include a service charge so do keep an eye out for that.
āā Recording: Taking photos and videos is generally okay anywhere in Vietnam, however as with any country it is important to ask if you are filming someone or are in a sensitive area such as a shrine. Usually there are signs to let you know.
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āŖ¢ Religion & Tradition
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ā Ancestor Veneration: Ancestral spirits are believed to watch over families. Altars are placed in homes for offerings and prayers.
ā Buddhism & Catholicism: The dominant religions, influencing cultural practices and festivals.
ā Tet (Lunar New Year): The biggest and most important holiday, a time for family reunions and celebrations.
ā Lanterns & Festivals: Learn about the history and symbolism of lanterns in Vietnamese culture, and find out about some of the most popular lantern festivals here.
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āŖ¢ Additional points to consider
ā Etiquette can vary by situation: Business settings might have stricter formalities than casual encounters.
ā Don't be afraid to make mistakes: Most Vietnamese people are understanding of foreigners who are trying to learn their customs.
ā Embrace the experience: Learning about Vietnamese culture can add a deeper layer of appreciation to your trip.ā
Understanding these cultural aspects will enrich your experience in Vietnam. Remember, a smile, respectful behavior, and a willingness to learn will open doors and allow you to connect with the warmth and hospitality of the Vietnamese people.
Local Cuisine
Vietnamese cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of fresh flavors and textures, known for its balance and healthy approach. While rice serves as the foundation of most meals, an emphasis on herbs, spices, and nuoc cham (fish sauce) dipping sauce creates a symphony of sweet, salty, sour, and savory notes. Each region boasts its own specialties, from the lighter, brothy dishes of the north to the bolder, spicier offerings of the central regions and the sweeter, coconut-influenced flavors of the south.
āŖ¢ Fundamentals
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ā Rice: The ubiquitous staple, eaten with most meals and sometimes used in noodle or rice paper form.
ā Nuoc Cham: The cornerstone condiment, a fish sauce-based dipping sauce often flavored with chilies, lime juice, garlic, and sugar.
ā Fresh Herbs & Vegetables: Mint, basil, cilantro, lettuce, and bean sprouts add freshness, texture, and essential vitamins.
āŖ¢ Popular Dishes
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ā Pho: A fragrant beef or chicken noodle soup, a national treasure.
ā Bun Bo Hue: Spicy rice noodle soup with origins in the central city of Hue.
ā Goi Cuon (Spring Rolls): Fresh and light rice paper rolls filled with vegetables, herbs, and protein.
ā Banh Mi: Savory baguette sandwiches with various fillings like pork, pate, and pickled vegetables.
āŖ¢ Regional Specialties
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ā North: Lighter broths, freshwater fish, and dishes like Bun Cha (grilled pork with noodles).
ā Central: Spicier flavors, influences from neighboring countries, and specialties like Quang noodles.
ā South: Coconut milk curries, higher sugar use, and dishes like Banh Xeo (crispy turmeric pancakes).
āŖ¢ Dining Etiquette
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ā Meals are typically shared, so expect to share plates with your dining companions.
ā Use chopsticks for most dishes, and a spoon for soups.
ā It's okay to slurp noodles, as it's considered a sign of enjoying the food.
ā A small nod or bow of thanks is a polite way to show appreciation to your host.
Vietnamese dining is a communal experience, so be prepared to share plates and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Be adventurous and explore street food stalls, but make sure they have good hygiene practices. The most popular food / grocery delivery apps are Grab Food, Go-Food, Now-Shopee Food and Baemin.
Health & Safety
Traveling to Vietnam can be a healthy and safe experience for foreign travelers, with a little preparation. While there are some minor challenges to consider, Vietnam boasts a well-developed healthcare system for minor issues.
Here's a breakdown of what to keep in mind:
āŖ¢ Challenges & Considerations
āā Food & Water Safety: Stick to bottled water, avoid street food with questionable hygiene, and thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables. Tap water is not drinkable in Vietnam. It is strongly advised to use bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth.
āā Mosquitoes: Dengue fever and malaria are present in some areas. Use insect repellent and consider mosquito nets, especially if venturing off the beaten path.
āā Traffic: Traffic can be chaotic, with a lot of honking, especially in cities. Be cautious when crossing streets and consider using taxis or ride-sharing apps for safe transportation.
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āŖ¢ General Healthcare for Foreigners
āā Medical Costs: Can be expensive. Consider travel insurance to cover medical emergencies and unexpected healthcare costs.
āā Clinics & Hospitals: Vietnam has a network of public and private hospitals and clinics. Public hospitals can be affordable but may have limited English-speaking staff. Private hospitals often cater to foreigners and offer higher standards of care at a higher cost.
āā Pharmacies: Pharmacies are abundant in most cities and towns, with some even staying open late or 24/7. You'll find a good range of medications, including pain relievers, allergy meds, cold and flu remedies, and basic toiletries.
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āŖ¢ Emergency Numbers
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ā āPolice: 113
ā Fire: 114
ā Ambulance: 115
ā Tourist Police Hotline (English): 03-3501-0110 (This hotline is specifically for tourists who need assistance with the police in English.)
ā Embassy or Consulate of your home country: Locate the contact details of your embassy or consulate in Vietnam before your trip. They can provide assistance in various situations, such as lost passports or legal issues.
ā National Tourist Information: While not a hotline, the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism website (vietnam-tourism.com) has a contact page where you can submit inquiries.
āŖ¢ Local Tourist Hotlines
Some major cities and tourist destinations have established their own tourist hotlines. Here are a couple of examples:
ā Ho Chi Minh City: 1022, then press extension 8 to connect to the tourist hotline (antoursvietnam.com)
ā Da Nang: Several hotlines are available, including the Tourist Support Center (0236) 3550 111 (antoursvietnam.com/about-an-tours-vietnam)ā
By taking basic precautions and being aware of your surroundings, you can minimize health risks in Vietnam. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, consult your doctor before traveling and bring any necessary medications with you. With a little planning and a focus on safety, Vietnam can be a fantastic and healthy travel destination.
Internet, SIM's, Dial Code & Plug Sockets
Vietnam boasts good mobile and broadband connectivity, especially in cities. 4G/LTE is the main mobile standard with decent speeds, and 5G is gradually rolling out.
Fiber optic is the preferred option for broadband due to its speed, though DSL and Cable are also available. Coverage is improving but can be lower in rural areas.
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āŖ¢ Internet Availability & Quality
Tourists in Vietnam can generally expect good internet access, particularly in popular destinations. Major cities boast widespread 4G/LTE coverage with decent speeds for browsing, social media, and even video calls. Fiber optic broadband is becoming increasingly common in urban areas, offering even faster connections for those who need to download large files or stream high-definition content.
However, it's important to remember that connectivity can be patchier in rural areas. So, while you can likely stay connected throughout your trip, venturing off the beaten path might require you to temper your expectations for internet quality. To ensure smooth connectivity throughout your visit, consider purchasing a local SIM card, or an eSIM upon arrival.
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āŖ¢ Mobile Internet
Mobile internet quality in Vietnam is generally good for tourists, especially in popular destinations. Major cities boast widespread 4G/LTE coverage, offering decent speeds for browsing the web, using social media, and even making video calls. However, venturing outside urban areas can lead to spottier connections, with speeds potentially dropping to 3G.
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āŖ¢ Top Cell Phone Providers
Here are the top 3 phone providers to consider for tourists in Vietnam:
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ā Viettel: The market leader, offering the widest coverage, including rural areas. It's a reliable choice for staying connected throughout your trip.
ā Vinaphone: The second largest provider, known for good speeds and coverage in major cities and tourist areas. They often have attractive data packages for tourists.
ā MobiFone: A strong competitor with good coverage in urban centers and along the coast. Their data plans might be a good option for those who plan to stay mostly in populated areas.
In addition to these major carriers, there are also a number of Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) that offer mobile phone service using the networks of the major carriers. MVNOs can often be a more affordable option, but they may not have the same level of network coverage or customer service as the major carriers.
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āŖ¢ Vietnam Dial Code
The dial code for Vietnam is +84. Vietnam actually only needs a dial code, not an exit code, when calling from another country. Vietnam uses a single exit code for international calls, but you likely won't need it as a tourist. Most phones automatically recognize when dialing internationally and apply the exit code for your country.
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āŖ¢ Plug Sockets in Vietnam
Vietnam uses a mix of plug socket types, so a travel adapter is recommended for most visitors.
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ā Plug Types: A (two flat parallel pins), C (two round pins), and occasionally D (three round pins) are commonly used.
ā Voltage: Vietnam operates on a 220V supply voltage at 50Hz. This is different from some countries like the US (110V).
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Purchase a universal travel adapter that includes plugs for A, C, and possibly D types for maximum compatibility. Only use appliances with the correct voltage rating or a compatible voltage converter to avoid damage.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about plug sockets in Vietnam:
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ā Check Appliance Ratings: Before using any appliance in Vietnam, look for a label indicating the voltage range it can handle (often on the power supply or bottom of the device).
ā Dual Voltage Appliances: If your appliance is labelled "INPUT: 110-240V" or similar, it's considered "dual voltage" and will work in Vietnam with just a travel adapter.
ā Single Voltage Appliances: Appliances labelled with a single voltage (e.g., 110V) will need a voltage converter in addition to a travel adapter to function safely in Vietnam.
Here are some of the top places you can visit in Vietnam (this list is by no means exhaustive!):
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āŖ¢ Ha Long Bay: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see for any visitor to Vietnam. The bay is dotted with thousands of limestone islands, many of which are topped with lush vegetation. You can take a boat cruise through the bay, kayak among the islands, or visit one of the many caves.
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āŖ¢ Hoi An: This charming ancient town is located on the central coast of Vietnam. Hoi An is famous for its well-preserved Old Town, which is filled with colorful wooden houses, tailor shops, and art galleries. You can also visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, a beautiful example of Japanese architecture.
āŖ¢ Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon): Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam and a fascinating mix of old and new. The city is home to a number of historical landmarks, including the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office. You can also visit the Ben Thanh Market, a large market where you can buy everything from souvenirs to clothing.
āŖ¢ Hanoi: Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and a city with a rich history. The city is home to a number of historical landmarks, including the Temple of Literature, the One Pillar Pagoda, and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. You can also visit the Hoan Kiem Lake, a beautiful lake located in the center of the city.
āŖ¢ Hue: Hue was the former capital of Vietnam and is home to a number of impressive historical landmarks, including the Imperial Citadel, the Forbidden Purple City, and the tombs of the Nguyen emperors. You can also visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, a beautiful pagoda located on the banks of the Perfume River.
āŖ¢ Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to some of the most spectacular caves in Vietnam, including the Son Doong Cave, the largest cave in the world. You can take a boat tour through the caves, go spelunking, or hike through the jungle.
āŖ¢ Phu Quoc Island: Phu Quoc Island is the largest island in Vietnam and is located off the coast of Cambodia. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and coral reefs. You can go swimming, snorkeling, diving, or fishing on Phu Quoc Island.
āŖ¢ Nha Trang: Nha Trang is a popular beach resort town located on the south central coast of Vietnam. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, long stretches of white sand, and clear blue waters. Nha Trang is also a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling.
āŖ¢ Da Nang: Da Nang is a large city located on the central coast of Vietnam. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, the Marble Mountains, and the Linh Ung Pagoda. Da Nang is also a popular destination for surfers and golfers.
āŖ¢ Sa Pa: Sa Pa is a town located in the Hoang Lien Son mountains in northwestern Vietnam. Sa Pa is known for its beautiful scenery, rice terraces, and hill tribes. You can go trekking, hiking, or homestay with a local family in Sa Pa.
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