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In Travel June 27, 2020

How to Travel Vietnam

How to travel Vietnam - The full guide

With some of the most compelling sight-seeing places, Vietnam has been making quite a buzz in the traveler’s bucket list these days. Surrounded by pristine beaches and lush green plants and trees, Vietnam is one of the must-visit countries. Vietnam has been one of the most sought-after destinations these days by a lot of travelers because of its rich heritage and culture.

Vietnam has been frequented by a lot of tourists’ of late, and the country boasts of some of the best beaches and scenic landscapes. There are a lot of destinations in Vietnam that one can visit during their visit. Also, the country has some of the world-class delicacies to tantalize your taste-buds. Most of the people love to go to Vietnam because of its most beautiful and kindest people.

The people here are amiable; thus, traveling in Vietnam can be one of the most pleasant experiences that you could have. In this write-up, we have written everything about Vietnam that you must know when you are traveling there.

If you want to know a country or a place better, it is recommended that you stay there for a month or two or go on an extended vacation and experience the place like a local. Only then would you truly explore the area? A country like Vietnam has a deep history associated with it, and spending time in the country taking a stroll on the streets can make you jibe in those vibes.

The beautiful landscapes, the ancient temples, the cultural centers, and the tranquil beaches can make your holiday a perfect one when you are here. Traveling in Vietnam is nice, but, along with that, it is worth knowing the place in detail before you plan to go there. So, are you ready to take a virtual tour of Vietnam?

The best season to visit Vietnam

The monsoon in Vietnam is pretty harsh, and this rainfall is going to be high. Thus, visiting Vietnam during the storm can be the worst choice. The weather in Vietnam is both tropical and temperate, and the temperature is anywhere between 22 degrees Celsius to 27 degrees Celsius. The place is generally humid; hence, it is essential to choose the right season to make your travel plans.

Also, the temperature in Vietnam is pretty constant, but the winters in the Northern regions can be pretty harsh. Similar to the other countries, Vietnam also has four seasons; summer, winter, monsoon, and autumn.

The southern parts of Vietnam experiences summer from May to October and the winter season starts from November and lasts until April. In Northern Vietnam, both the summer and winter seasons are quite at its peak.

The cloudbursts here are unpredictable, and it can start to pour at any time of the day. Hence, there is no distinguished monsoon season in Vietnam. Thus, the best time to travel to Vietnam would be from February to April, spring season, and August to November, autumn season. Winter months can also be considered; however, it is wise to travel during the recommended seasons for the best experience.

Geography of Vietnam

Vietnam is broadly classified into the Highlands, the Central Highlands, Coastal Lowlands, and Mekong Delta. Vietnam is mainly surrounded by tropical lowlands, hills, and also thick jungles. Located in the eastern margin of the Indochinese peninsula, the overall area of Vietnam is 331,211.6 square kilometres. Vietnam has the Gulf of Thailand, Gulf of Tonkin, and the Pacific Ocean, along with China, Laos, and Cambodia at the borders.

The Red River Delta and the Mekong Delta are two significant areas in Vietnam, and amongst the two, the Red River Delta is densely populated. The country’s maximum cultivation is found in this region due to the presence of alluvial soil. Vietnam is also an abode to tribes that are found in the Highlands. The Mekong River is the major lifeline of Vietnam, and the water from this river is used for cultivation and drinking purposes.

The terrain in the Central Highlands is pretty different from that of the Red River Delta. Covering the southern regions of Vietnam, the Central highlands comprise peaks, thick forests, and fertile soil. Also, the provinces of Dac Lac, Gia Lai, and Kon Tum are abundant with basalt soil.

Apart from these, the Coastal Lowlands also contribute a significant part to the country’s growth and revenue. The fertility of the soil is pretty good at the Coastal Lowlands. Thus, it is one of the best places to grow paddy.

Mekong Delta is the home of the Mekong River and the tributaries. This region has umpteen numbers of canals and water bodies; thus, it makes it one of the largest rice-growing areas in entire Vietnam. Also, the southernmost tip of this region is known for its mangroves. The sediments from the Red River Delta get accumulated in this region, forming vast swamps. Also, Vietnam’s Mekong River is one of the 12 Great Rivers of the World.

Useful information about Vietnam

Time zone of Vietnam

Indochina Time (ICT) is what is followed by Reunified Vietnam. The Indochina Time is seven hours ahead of UTC. Vietnam does not observe daylight saving time.

Currency used in Vietnam

Vietnam’s currency is the Vietnamese dong (VND). Multiple zeros are found on Vietnam’s official polymerized notes.

Population of Vietnam

According to the recent census conducted in the year 2019, Vietnam, as a country, has about 96,653,345 people. Vietnam contributes 1.25% of the population towards the total world population.

Languages are spoken in Vietnam

Though the official language is Vietnamese, a lot of people can also speak French, Chinese, and Khmer. Also, due to growth in tourism, English is becoming slightly famous off-late.

Well, these are some of the essential things that you must know when you are traveling to Vietnam. With this information, you would be able to understand the country better and also plan your trip accordingly.

Off season travel benefits in Vietnam

Most of the people would want to plan their travel to any destination during the peak season only. There would be a lot of seasonal activities and attractions that are limited to a particular season. But, at the same time traveling to a place during the off-season can be quite an experience in itself. Well, even Vietnam has a lot of off-season destinations and attractions that one can visit. Also, there are a lot of benefits that one can get when they are traveling to Vietnam during the off-season, and the same has been listed below.

You would be able to enjoy the places and the views better

When you travel to Vietnam during the off-season, you would certainly not have a lot of tourists at all. When there are not many tourists, then going around the places can be quite an exciting thing. There wouldn’t be many people, and the areas would also not be crowded; hence, spending time in an area without any disturbance is quite possible.

Also, Vietnam is blessed with a lot of pristine beaches; hence, spending time on the shores of the beaches looking at the roaring waves and the crystal clear water and clear sky can be one of the best things to do during the off-season. So, this is one of the significant benefits that one can avail when they travel to Vietnam during the off-season.

Affordable prices

Of course, when you choose to move to a country during the peak season, everything that you do, visit, stay and buy can be quite expensive. But, when you decide to go to Vietnam during the off-season, you would be able to get the overall tour package at an affordable cost. The prices would be pretty low, and everything best can be afforded during this time. Hence, this is yet another advantage that you get when you travel to Vietnam during the off-season.

Landscapes are gorgeous

During the monsoon, everything around becomes pretty. Especially, moving amidst the beautiful and lush green forests can be one of the best experiences. Though there are heavy rainfalls in Vietnam, one must know that the showers are short. Thus, traveling during this season can be one of the most beautiful things to do.

There are a lot of attractions to visit

Even during the off-season, there are a lot of attractions that can be visited in Vietnam. There would not be any compromise on these as well. Also, when you go to Vietnam during the off-season, you can spend more time knowing the culture and the beauty of the cities and other places. One can also spend a lot of time amidst the locals because, during the off-season, there wouldn’t be a lot of tourists, and the locals would also be free to explain things to you in a much better way.

Well, don’t you think traveling to a country like Vietnam during the off-season can be beautiful? After knowing the advantages of off-season moving, it is now time to understand the benefits of traveling during the peak seasons to Vietnam.

Traveling to Vietnam during the peak season

February to April, spring season, and August to November, autumn season is considered to be the best months to go to Vietnam. During these months, there would be a lot of travelers heading towards this country for its spectacular views and panoramic landscapes. Here are some of the benefits of traveling to Vietnam during the peak season.

Fun and frolic

When you go to Vietnam during the peak season, you will not miss any fun. When the cities are lit completely, the happiness and also the energy levels would be a lot more. The enthusiastic vibes and interesting places would make you feel happy and excited. The same may not happen when you are in this country during the offseason. Hence, traveling during the peak season becomes quite essential.

Can get to meet new people

When you are in Vietnam during the peak season, you would be able to make new connections, and that is what travel is all about, isn’t it? It may not happen when you travel to Vietnam during the off-season. There wouldn’t be many travelers, and you may not have many people to meet as well.

Can experience the best of restaurants

Some of the seasonal restaurants would operate only during the peak seasons. Their delicacies may be delicious. The must-visit restaurants should be tried only during peak seasons because there would be a huge demand, and they might make everything that is on the menu. The same kind of list may not be available during the offseason. Hence, this is one of the main reasons as to why you need to visit Vietnam during the peak season.

Some crucial events might happen only during the peak season

There are a lot of festivals and celebrations that happen in Vietnam and during the peak season. Attending and taking part in these festivals can be pretty delightful. During the off-season, everything would be dull, and as there would not be any festivities, it would just be like any other typical day of your life. Hence, visiting Vietnam during the festivals and events during the peak season is right.

You do not have to come back in disappointment

Some of the attractions or tourist places would be open only during the peak season. If you are visiting Vietnam with an expectation to see that place and you do not get to see it then, you may have to come back in disappointment.

Some of the tourist places may be closed due to the harsh and extreme weather during the off-season. So, if you are keen on covering all the tourist spots and attractions during your visit, you must make it to Vietnam during the peak season. Well, these are some of the advantages that you would get when you travel to Vietnam during the peak season.

Exciting and fun facts about Vietnam

Every country we go to would have some interesting facts revolving around it. Even Vietnam has a lot of points like it. Knowing a little about these facts may not be just exciting, but it would also make your travel to Vietnam a memorable one. So, are you in for knowing some fascinating facts about Vietnam?

Did you know the Vietnamese love to commute on motor-bikes?

Vietnam is a country that encourages people to use motor-bikes in large numbers. Generally, in most of the other countries, we find people using cars, taxis, autos, and buses as a means of transportation. But, this is one country that loves to make it less chaotic for everyone. So, when you travel to Vietnam, be prepared to ride a bike to explore places.

Ho Chi Minh is still the hero of this land

Who would not probably know about Ho Chi Minh? He is the founder of modern-day Vietnam, and the entire country always respects him as their hero. He was and would be their undying hero forever. Usually, the hero of the country keeps changing time and again, but here Uncle Ho, as he is popularly known, is the popular hero of all time. The remains of Ho Chi Minh is protected in the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Hanoi.

Fair and lovely is still the concept here

People with fair skin have high standards in Vietnam even to this day. Like most of the Asian countries, skin complexion is given the highest importance in Vietnam. Most of the men and women avoid suntan or exposing their skin to the Sun. So, don’t you think this is one of the interesting facts that would surprise you about Vietnam?

They have a national dish

Vietnam has a national dish, and every restaurant irrespective of the class and the standards prepare this. Pho is the national dish of Vietnam and everyone right from a street shack to the five-star restaurants; everyone makes this yummy food. So, this may not happen in every other country, isn’t it?

Gosh! They have snake wine

According to the Vietnamese culture and traditions, Snake wine or the snake liquor would be consumed to increase the vitality in our bodies. They also believe that there are a lot of health benefits that come along with the consumption of snake wine. Snake wine or the snake liquor is pretty standard in the Southeast Asian continents yet, can come across as a bizarre one, isn’t it?

Vietnam ranks two in coffee production

After Brazil, Vietnam boasts of producing and trading the best and large quantities of coffee to the other parts of the world. The coffee in Vietnam is one of its kind and is a must-try beverage when you are here. Well, Vietnam is the second-largest producer of coffee after Brazil.

It is rich in wildlife

The thick and dense forests in Vietnam are an abode to 16% of the world’s wildlife species. When you travel to Vietnam, you can get to see the Burmese Pythons, Great Hornbills, and Sun bears Pygmy Slow Loris, Asian Water Monitor, and Indian Elephants in large numbers. For all those wildlife lovers, Vietnam can become your favorite destination within moments.

Have you heard of water puppetry?

It is pretty common to have heard of puppetry but, water puppetry is pretty unusual, isn’t it? Yes, in Vietnam, we have something called water puppetry, and the same cannot be witnessed anywhere else. So, this is one of the most interesting facts about Vietnam. Water puppetry here is one of the oldest followed customs, and the cities of Hanoi and Chi Minh follows this tradition quite religiously.

The world’s largest cave is here

Hang Son Doong Cave is the largest cave in the world, and Vietnam gets the credit of housing this naturally formed caves. It is one of the must-visit places when you are here, and not many people would know about this fact at all. So, for all the cave lovers, here comes your reason to travel to Vietnam now.

Egg coffee is delicious

Yes, you heard us right; Hanoi is known to make some delightful egg coffee. It is not available anywhere in the world. So, when you are in Vietnam, do not miss out on the most popular beverage, egg coffee.

Vietnamese hail from Dragons

It is probably one of the funniest facts of all we suppose. According to the legends and folklore, the Vietnamese hail from dragons. Well, this is the most exciting fact which no one would have probably ever heard of.

Vietnam has Breast Milk Fruit

Yes, don’t let your eyes pop out in awe! A fruit in Vietnam known as the Breast Milk Fruit is available, and probably this is not available anywhere in the world. So, when you travel to Vietnam, you must undoubtedly try your hands on these new fruits. It is also called as Vu Sua in the local language.

Every other family would have a surname called Nguyen

Don’t be surprised if you get to hear the same surname quite often. Nguyen is one of the most common surnames in Vietnam, and every second family would have it. So, be prepared to get confused with the names.

Pigs are pets and Water buffalo, national animal

The potbelly pigs are generally reared and kept as pets at home in Vietnam. So, when you travel to Vietnam, you would be able to spot a lot of these animals. Also, their national animal is the water buffalo. It sounds pretty impressive, isn’t it?

Well, apart from these there are a lot of other interesting facts which you must experience first-hand when you travel to Vietnam. Understanding some of the traditions and beliefs through these facts can be quite handy when you move to a place, isn’t it?

Best agencies and websites to use for bookings

There are a lot of travel agencies and websites that can be used for booking a trip to Vietnam. Some of the best agencies are listed below. These websites and agencies are known to be highly reliable and also customer-centric ones. Hence, booking through these sources are always recommended to be the best ones.

While most of the people love to book their accommodation and travel on their own, a few of them would like to seek assistance from the booking companies. Keeping that on the mind, we have listed some of the travel agencies and also the websites that you can use to book your travel to Vietnam. Some of the travel websites also help in booking the customized packages; hence, relying on these websites can be a better idea.

Best tour operators and websites to book Vietnam tour (no affiliate)

INTRO Travel
G Adventures
Topdeck
Exodus Travels
Intrepid Travel
Contiki
Hoi An Express
Busabout
https://vietnamtour.in/
www.tripoto.com
www.makemytrip.com
www.traveltriangle.com
www.thrillophilia.com
www.thomascook.in
www.sotc.in
www.tnktravel.com

Well, these are some of the best websites and tour operators who offer customized travel packages to their customers. There are a lot of benefits that you can get when you book through these agencies or the agencies, and a few of them are listed below.

Reliable

Most of these tour agencies and websites are reliable, and they would also have a lot of choices when it comes to booking the trip. The packages that they offer are based on the customer’s preference. It may not be available if you try booking it on your own. You may end up choosing the wrong places that are in opposite directions when there is no proper research done. Hence, booking through these agencies can help you relax because they would also help you with a detailed itinerary as well.

Experienced professionals

Most of these tour operators are experts in their areas of specialization. They would know the details of the places properly, and the same is mentioned on the itinerary as well. They would also be able to suggest if there are any issues concerning the Visa, passport, and other details that you may end up overlooking. Hence, this is one of the greatest advantages that you would receive when you are booking your travel to Vietnam via a booking agency.

Would have reviews from the customers

Their website would certainly have genuine reviews from the customers, and by going through them, you would be able to understand the quality of these booking companies. When you get to know the reviews from the other customers, it becomes pretty easy for you to go ahead with the bookings because most of these users would be giving their genuine reasons.

Customer-centric

Most of these booking agencies would also take the responsibility of booking the end to end trip to their customers, including the transportation, accommodation and sight-seeing places. You do not have to run around or do anything on your own. So, they would always go the extra mile to make their customers feel great about their service.

Discounts and offers

Most of these tour agencies would have contacts, and they would get you the best accommodation or flights at a nominal price. It would save a lot of money for you. A part of these, they would also ensure to shower you with discounts and offers and this can help you to make several trips.

Well, these are some of the benefits that one can get when they book their travel to Vietnam using the websites or the tour operators mentioned above.

What to pack to Vietnam?

There are a lot of things that one has to carry during their travel to Vietnam. To carry the right things, it is essential to understand the weather and climatic conditions of the region that you are visiting. Most of the places in Vietnam are hot and humid; hence, carrying the below mentioned things are important during your travel to Vietnam.

Vietnam is a sub-tropical region with a lot of humidity and heat. Therefore, carrying light-weighted clothes would be entirely appropriate. Also, Vietnam experiences sudden downpours. Hence, having a rain-jacket handy is also essential.

Carry clothes that are comfortable and are of loose-fit. The humidity would make it difficult for you to roam around if you are wearing tight-fitting clothes.
Carry proper hiking shoes and footwear because there are a lot of hiking spots and dense jungles that you may want to explore.
Carrying a swim-suit would also be a good option when you are stepping out to explore the beaches.
Light-colored clothes are perfect choices because wearing black clothes can only make you feel even hotter.
Goggles, sun-glasses, and shades are to be carried to protect your eyes from harmful sun rays.
Carry sunburn creams, suntan creams with high SPFs because the Sun would be at its peak, and stepping out during the afternoons would require all these things.
You could also choose to carry sarongs and scarves and spread them on the shore to lie down.
Carry Panama caps when you are stepping out in the Sun.
Carrying an umbrella can save you from getting wet from the sudden downpours.
Track pants and tees are also essential as they absorb the sweat
Carry a few pairs of socks as well and never wear your shoes without socks
A pair of flip-flops or sandals are to be carried
Pajamas or harem pants can come handy when you are out to explore religious and spiritual centers.
Do not forget your inner garments, and if you are traveling from November to February, it is essential to carry a sweatshirt, a cardigan, or a jacket. It can help you protect from the cold.

These are the general things that are to be carried when you travel to Vietnam;the same applies to family, women, and kids.

Do’s and Don’ts in Vietnam

Every country would have its principles, traditions, and values. Like most of the countries, even Vietnam has particular Do’s and Don’ts that are to be followed by all the tourists and travelers when they visit this place. Let us quickly understand those things to make your travel in Vietnam the best one.

1. You must make sure to dress appropriately

Like most of the Asian countries, Vietnam is also a pretty conservative country in terms of dresses. So, when you travel to Vietnam, it is recommended to carry clothes that do not reveal too much of your skin. Especially when you are in public wearing scanty clothes is simply considered to be disrespectful.

2. Stay hydrated

You already know that this is one of the sub-tropical regions, and the weather is pretty humid. Hence, drinking a lot of water and staying hydrated is very important. Else, you may even land on a hospital bed with dehydration. Therefore, keep sipping water as much as you can.

3. Remove your shoes if you are visiting the homes or temples

Most of the temples in the Asian continent follow the tradition of leaving the footwear at the entrance or a place dedicated to footwear. The same rule applies to Vietnam as well. When you travel to Vietnam, make sure to remove your footwear at the temples and also when you go inside the homes of the residents. It is a sign of respect.

4. Have a reusable water bottle handy

Make sure to have your water bottle because, in Vietnam, a bottle of water is costly. It is more expensive than a bottle of beer. Hence, carrying your containers and filling it up with water where you find is the ideal thing to do.

5. Remember the address or have a business card of the place where you are staying

Most of the time, Uber or the taxi drivers may not understand your accent or language, and they would simply look at the business cards to get the address. So, carrying the business card of the place where you are staying is very important to reach back safe when you are in Vietnam.

6. Toilet papers would always come to your rescue

The public toilets here do not have the luxury of having toilet rolls. Hence, it is good to carry your toilet paper and use them when you pay a visit to the public toilets. Also, toilet papers can be used to clean the surface when you are sitting on a bench or elsewhere in public.

7. Train journeys are the best

It is always good to take the trains when you are traveling in Vietnam. Taking passengers can be one of the best ways to experience this country. Also, it is one of the most affordable means of transport. Hence, this is one of the must-do things when you travel to Vietnam.

8. Temples hold the highest significance

Make sure to maintain silence at the temples and also remove the footwear when you walk inside the temples. Also, remember to be dressed appropriately in the right clothes when you visit the temples. Temples in Vietnam hold great importance, and disrespecting the culture and the tradition at the temples can be a bad thing to do during your travel to Vietnam.

9. Your bag is your property

Bag snatchers are found in abundance in Vietnam. Hence, you must make sure to keep your bags safe. Always hang it by your side and never take your eyes off from your belongings.

10. Click with permission

There are a lot of places in Vietnam where photography is restricted. Clicking pictures in those places can attract unnecessary fines. Hence, you must ensure to ask permission and then start clicking photographs when you travel to Vietnam.

Now that we have understood the do’s while traveling in Vietnam, it is also important to understand the things that are not to be done in Vietnam.

Don’t do these things when you travel to Vietnam

1. Clicking pictures of military equipment

When you visit a place that has the military equipment or anything related to the war, even by mistake, you must not take photos of it. If you do so, you would be immediately being imprisoned on the lines of breach of national security. So, beware before clicking photographs when you travel in Vietnam.

2. Mentioning anything about the war can be a criminal offense

Speaking anything about war or even vaguely saying it can be considered a serious crime here. So, do not utter a word about the Vietnamese war.

3. Cross the roads without stopping

Despite the heavy traffic, you would find the locals crossing the streets without any fear. You may also have to follow the same rules because stopping here would certainly not solve the problem. Hence, stick to a lane and just keep walking until you reach your destination.

4. PDAs are strictly not allowed

When you are in Vietnam, you must strictly refrain yourselves from kissing, cuddling, or even hugging tight at the public places. The country is conservative, and PDAs of any sort is considered to be a serious offense

5. Do not intrude the villages without their permission

There are a lot of ethnic communities in Vietnam. Most of the people would love to take a tour of these places. These villages are charming but, walking in without the permission of the locals is unacceptable. Hence, this is one of the other things that you must and should avoid when you are in Vietnam.

Well, these are some of the dos and don’ts that are to be followed when you travel to Vietnam. When you know these things, it becomes easy for you to experience the beauty of the place without violating the rules.

How to behave with people in Vietnam?

As already mentioned, Vietnam is a traditional country, and they have their own beliefs and system in place. Also, the people here are pretty conservative. Hence, there are certain things that one must follow when they travel to Vietnam. In this section, let us quickly understand how you need to behave with people when you are in Vietnam.

1. Never stroke the hair of a child

Never try to touch a child when you are in Vietnam. Moving the head or gently stroking their hair is considered to be pretty offensive, as this means that the child’s soul is stolen. Hence, even if you cross your paths with the cutest kids in Vietnam, please keep your hands to yourselves.

2. Raising your voice is forbidden

Vietnamese people are pretty calm and quiet; they do not believe in arguments and raising voices. Hence, speaking to them in a low-tone is mandatory even if you are not used to this…

3. Offering gifts to children is not encouraged

If you find a kid walking by the street, it is not a great sign to offer them a box of cookies, chocolates, or anything as a goodwill gesture. It is always recommended to either stay away from any of these things or give these things to the adults who are with the children.

4. Do not offer money even by mistake

Providing cash to Vietnamese is one of the most degrading things. You must carefully watch out for these. If you feel like donating items, some orphanages or institutions accept. Do not hand over money to anybody you find on your way. Vietnamese will take your generosity.

5. Never hug or kiss a Vietnamese

Most of the countries are exceptional when it comes to embracing and planting a kiss on the cheek as part of their culture. Well, in Vietnam, this is highly disregarded because the country’s culture is pretty protected, and they do not allow any sort of PDA.

6. Gifts offered to the host remains wrapped

In many states, the gifts offered would immediately be unwrapped, but, in Vietnam, it is the exact opposite. Until and unless the guests leave, the hosts will not open the gifts. So, don’t get surprised as that is part of their tradition and culture.

Well, these are some of the things that you must learn when you plan your travel to Vietnam. Vietnamese are sensitive people, and behaving with them gently is very important.

Different rules in Vietnam

Apart from the provisions mentioned above, there are a lot of other regulations that one must follow during their trip in Vietnam. When you are traveling to a different country, it is always good to understand everything about that place and then go there. Else, a small mistake might lead to a significant offense, and you may even end up in jails.

1. Photos without permission is a serious offense

In most of the places, people would love to pose in front of the cameras with a broad smile. But, in Vietnam taking photographs of the locals, especially at the ethnic villages, is considered to be an annoyance. Also, clicking pictures of the military equipment is not at all appreciated. Hence, you must make sure to take the pictures with permission else, refrain.

2. Eating food has its own rules

If you ever happen to visit a local’s home for lunch or dinner, you must make sure to wait until the eldest person in the family has started to eat. It is considered to be respectful in Vietnam. So, do not begin hogging on food as soon as it is served on your plate when you are in Vietnam. Also, in the Vietnamese culture, food is one of the most promising things. Even when the eldest and the oldest member of the family start to eat, followed by the younger members, it symbolically shows the respect and love that the family has towards each other.

3. Smoking is restricted

Like the other countries, Vietnam has its own rules when it comes to smoking. People are restricted from smoking in public places. Especially where there are a lot of people, smoking is prohibited. Hence, you must make sure to follow the rules on tobacco strictly when you travel to Vietnam.

4. Wearing skimpy dresses to temples

Vietnam has enormous respect for the temples, the religious, and the spiritual centers from time immemorial. These are the places that are to be dressed modestly. Hence, wearing scanty clothes is entirely forbidden. It can be pretty unpleasant and can even annoy the locals at the temple. Therefore, this is one of the most important rules that you must follow when you are in Vietnam.

Well, these are some of the other rules that you must strictly adhere to when you are in Vietnam.

Vietnam is filled with abundant attractions. Right from the spectacular beaches to the dense jungles, temples to the best restaurants, Vietnam is known as a perfect holidaying destination. Well, every country would have its attractions to visit, and so does Vietnam. Here is a list of must-visit attractions in Vietnam:

Attractions to visit in Vietnam

1. Halong Bay

Get the stunning views of the seascape the Halong Bay while you travel to Vietnam. It is one of the UNESCO World heritage sites and a lot of and a lot of tourists flock into this place to catch a glimpse of the limestone island. Do not forget to go cruising when you are in Halong Bay. Apart from this, one can also enjoy the cave explorations at this place as there are a lot of famous caves around this area.

2. Hue

Hue happens to be Vietnam’s ancient cities with great history attached to it. If you want to know more about the Nguyen emperors, you must visit Hue because there are a lot of relics about these emperors that can be found in this city. The quaint town is perched on the banks of the Perfume River, and it has a lot of attractions that one can visit. It is one of the must-visit places for all the art-lovers. Cruising along the Perfume River can be one of the most beautiful things to do.

3. Ho Chi min city

Ho Chi Minh City is the buzz of the country for several reasons. People who love to be part of the city must visit this place because this city probably has everything that you want. Right from the posh restaurants to shopping areas, this place is almost always crowded. Vietnam’s major sight-seeing attractions are found in this city, HCMC Museum and grand Notre Dame Cathedral are the most important ones.

4. PhongNha-Ke Bang National Park

For all those who love caves, PhongNha-Ke Bang National Park is one of the best caves that you must visit when you are in Vietnam. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The gorgeous views of the karst mountain formation can leave you mesmerized at this place. Paradise Cave happens to be one of the most iconic destinations at this place. The distance of the cave is about 31km underground, and that’s what makes it one of the most happening places in entire Vietnam.

5. Hoi An

Hoi An is one of the most lovely cities in Vietnam that boat about the proud history of the country. It is one of the places where one would get to experience the real Vietnam and its culture. Hoi An was one of the most trading centers for the Japanese and the Chinese merchants during the 15th century.

The glimpses of these can be caught to date as you take a stroll around the place. The significant attractions of Hoi-An are the houses of merchants of the bygone era, which are opened to public visits. Walking into these houses to experience the beautiful architecture and the decorative can be one of the best things to do when you are in Hoi An.

6. Hanoi

The heart of the country, Hanoi is one of the most popular destinations that one must undoubtedly visit when they are in Vietnam. Hanoi has the charm of the old city yet, and it is one of the most buzzing cities in Vietnam. Your visit to Vietnam will remain incomplete if you do not catch the sight of the busiest Hanoi streets filled with motorbikes and street vendors.

7. My son

For all those who love to go around and experience the surreal beauty in ruins, My Son is the right destination. This 4th-century Hindu religious temple is covered with mountains filled with lush green forests and a wide range of flora and fauna. The temple complex boasts of 20 temple structures with various architectural marvels from different Asian empires. It is one of the must-visit places when you are in Vietnam.

Well, these are some of the major destinations in Vietnam, and apart from this, one can also take a trip to the Sapa Countryside, Nha Trang Củ Chi Tunnels, Ba Be National Park, and Mekong Delta.

Travel Costs to Vietnam

There are a lot of travel agencies and websites that offer the best deals to travel to Vietnam. However, it is always better to understand the cost of everything, plan, and then start with the reservations. One can plan for a lavish, yet a budget-friendly trip to Vietnam.

Flights

The flight charges are comparatively cheaper to Vietnam, and if you book it well in advance, you may be able to save a lot of money on the flights.

Accommodation

There is no shortage of housing in Vietnam. There are a lot of guest-houses, hotels, and luxurious hotels that one can choose to book during their travel. Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi are the best places to reserve accommodation.

Some of the best guest houses in Vietnam are

Hanoi Charming House
Hanoi Lotus Guest House
My cozy Apartel
Con KiếnNhỏ
Little Library Villa Hoi An
Big Home Dalat
49 Trang Tien House
TUTU HOUSE

Some of the topmost luxurious hotels in Vietnam are

Acoustic Hotel and Spa
Hanoi L’Heritage Diamond Hotel and Spa
Orchids Saigon Hotel

These are some of the best choices for choosing your stay in Vietnam. Well, if you make prior reservations, you would be able to save a lot of money even on the accommodation when you are in Vietnam.

Transportation

Motorbikes are the most preferred means of commutation in Vietnam to go around the cities. Apart from this, one can also choose to travel through the local train as this can save a lot of money. If you want to experience a luxury holiday then, Uber services are pretty much available in Vietnam. There are private taxis that you could choose to hire as well.

Food

Vietnam is a paradise for foodies. One can go on a gastronomical tour in Vietnam. The local cuisines here are mouth-watering, and Vietnam offers a plethora of choices when it comes to food. You can get to hop streets and also binge in some of the best restaurants when you are here.

Mentioned below are some of the must-visit restaurants when you are in Vietnam

Shri Restaurant & Lounge
Skewers Restaurant
Cuc Gach Quan
Secret Garden
Hum Vegetarian, Lounge & Restaurant
Secret House
Mountain Retreat
Anan Saigon

Hanoi and Chi Minh city also have a lot of street food options, and the best places to eat are

Co Giang Street
Nguyen Thuong Hien Street
SuVanh Han Street
Phan Van Han Street
Van Keep Street

Mi Quang, Pho, Xoi, Banh xeo, GoiCuon, Bun Bo Nam Bo, Cao Lau, and Banh me are some of the most authentic dishes to be eaten when you are in Vietnam.

Travel insurance in Vietnam

Every traveler needs to take the best travel insurance that offers better coverage to cover the theft, illness, and injury during the travel.

The best available travel insurance is with World Nomands.

Please note: we are affiliate with Travel Nomands Insurance. However, we do encourage you to click here and check Travel Nomands insurance package by your self.

It includes medical expenses for travel accidents, natural disasters , scuba diving or when you are prone to serious illness. There are a few policies that would exclude a few dangerous sports until and unless you do not pay extra amount.

Even if you are prone to injuries while playing games such as scuba diving, whitewater rafting, kite surfing, or other activities, you would be covered when you have the best travel insurance. If you want to try motorbiking in Vietnam, you need to make sure that the insurance covers biking in Vietnam. If you are going to claim the amount, you need to keep the receipts of the medical bill and treatment. If you lose the medical bills, you need to get an official statement from the police.

The best thing about taking Nomad insurance is that it offers various travel insurance plans at affordable prices. Besides, the support team is available to answer your queries round the clock. Interestingly, this insurance allows travelers to use it at any time. You can also buy this right from your home and even if the trip is in progress. You can get the claim anywhere globally.

Safety travel with kids

In general, Vietnam is a safe country to travel to and you can read in great detail the answer to the question: Is it safe to travel in Vietnam?

Vietnam is safe to travel with kids as one can see a lot of families with children going around the places without any inhibitions

Travel alone / group (male / female)

Do not simply trust the cab drivers to jump into the taxi without proper directions
Make sure to keep all your belongings safe
Preserve or petty thefts like chain-snatching, pick-pocketing, etc.…
Make sure to find the best accommodation within the city limits
Try going out in the night to a deserted place; it can be dangerous
Carry only the amount you need for the day and leave the rest in the safe lockers.

Crime

According to the recent survey, Vietnam is a country with fewer crime rates. Petty issues like thefts, chain-snatching, and cheating are common in big cities. Apart from these, there aren’t any such significant crimes that occur in this country. Accidents are pretty common in this country because the majority of the people here are fond of riding motorbikes. Hence, one has to be extremely careful when they are riding or driving in Vietnam.

Warnings

It is good to avoid motorbikes
Wearing bags that are sturdy can keep you and your belongings safe
Crossing the street can be a menace but, go with the flow. Be steady and focus on the roads while you cross some of the busiest streets in Hanoi and Chi Minh city.
Traveling through the motorbike taxis at night can be quite dangerous. Also, avoid going out all by yourself at night in a deserted area.
Drugs are hazardous; hence, say “No” to it.
Remember to sit at the back seat of the taxi because there are chances of getting assaulted by the taxi drivers, and this can be pretty annoying.
Expensive gadgets can catch the attention of thieves. Hence, you must be extra careful when you are taking out your expensive devices out in public.
Remember not to drink water from the taps to avoid any sort of water infection, stick to bottled waters.

Local laws

There are some serious flaws that can be imposed when a person is found using drugs. Drugs in Vietnam can lead to a death sentence, as well.
Beware not to click any photographs where there are military installations. It is a severe offense, and you would be jailed immediately.
Never try to pick antiques from Vietnam back home; it is a crime.
There are Government approved Casinos. Apart from these, if you are caught anywhere else, you would be punished by the court of law in Vietnam.
You must never take part in any of the political events. It would immediately attract the police, and you would be severely punished.
Prostitution is entirely illegal. Hence, be careful when you walk into a massage center or a spa.
Be careful when you are blogging about Vietnam, any discussion related to the Government or any political institution can be scrutinized. These can again be an illegal act and will be punished.
Also, involving yourselves in spreading anything about religion when you travel to Vietnam is also a serious offense.

Embassies and consulates

Mentioned below are some of the list of embassies and consulates in Vietnam.

Health

When you travel to Vietnam, beware of some of the most contagious diseases. The medicine system here is a blend of both traditional and modern-day methods. There are a lot of public hospitals in Vietnam. However, the facilities aren’t that great.

One may not find sophisticated equipment, as you see in other countries. Also, the doctors at these hospitals are only found speaking Vietnamese. Hence, it may become slightly awkward to get the treatment done.

But, Vietnam also has a lot of private hospitals which are highly sophisticated. The modern-day equipment is installed, and the doctors will give the best services to the patients at an affordable price.

When compared to other countries, health treatment in Vietnam is pretty affordable.

When you are in Vietnam, it is always recommended to avoid Ice at the restaurants or any eat-outs. One must make sure to drink bottled water to avoid any sort of infection. Keep drinking water to prevent dehydration and carry the necessary sunburn creams and lotions to keep your skin safe from the harmful radiations of the sun.

Well, these are some of the things that you must know before you travel to Vietnam. Traveling to a different place by knowing various aspects can help you blend well with the surroundings. Of course, traveling has its challenges. But, when you are completely aware and have researched everything about the place you are going to, you would be much confident and safer. We hope that this information about Vietnam would come handy to you soon 🙂

In Travel June 25, 2020

Is it safe to travel to Vietnam?

The guide to a safe trip in Vietnam

Vietnam is the best destination to visit in Southeast Asia. It will be in the bucket list of every traveler who is traveling with family or sole. It is also a safe country to enjoy culture, marine life, adventure, nature, history, or food. The sparkling turquoise seas, curving beaches, stunning scenic beauty, and colonial streets make it a perfect place to get away after a hectic year.

These days Vietnam has become pretty safe. The culture of the site is vibrant, and the history is fascinating. There are millions of people who travel to this country every year, not just the intrepid backpackers, but also with the families, friends, and all sorts of people visit this destination.

From visiting the Corel Reefs in Nha Trang to the mountains in Sapa, traveling to this place is an experience more than a country. You can enjoy the sunset in the Mekong Delta and cruise in the waters of Halong Bay while enjoying the cuisines of Vietnam.

Also, you can go for trekking and wander from one island to another, enjoying its stunning beauty. Homestays are the perfect places to unwind your holidays, watching nature and rainwater flowing into the river of Mekong.

Though it has some downsides such as petty crimes like pickpocketing and fuzziness with the pushy vendors, by keeping a close watch on the surroundings and your valuables, you can avoid the hassles in your travel.

Many people show interest in traveling alone to explore the beauty of Vietnam. It is the place where you can plan the trip within your budget

Southeast Asia is very safe: The people of the country are friendly and welcoming. The food is also delicious that it makes you feel like staying home away from home. There are many beautiful places where you can stay alone comfortably without any intimidation.

You can also find an English-speaking guide to explore the local areas. You can walk around the Ho Chi Minh City during the night times and go on a hiking trail in the jungle or go for an adventurous motorbike ride on Hai Van pass or take a night bus to tour around the country.

Enjoy street life in Vietnam

The soul of Vietnam culture is the nightlife. As you are traveling alone, you can go and visit the places of your choice and have food that you love to taste without any planning. You can find the vendors selling street foods on the city roads. The street eats that you should try Pho and Vietnam spring rolls.

Meet other travelers

When you on the tourist trail, you can meet the fellow solo travelers. These travelers will be sharing the same love for traveling like you. So, you can find new friends who are like-minded as you. There are many hostels in Vietnam. You can stay in those hotels during your visit to meet new people and carry incredible memories with you while leaving the place.

Dos and Don'ts in Vietnam

Vietnam is a place that is rich in history, culture, and is a beautiful country. Though this is a friendly and safe place, to stay trouble-free and have a smooth travel, you should know the dos and don’ts of this place. You should remain calm to avoid arguments with aggressive vendors, tour operators, and fellow drivers while driving on the roads.

Dos

Greetings in Vietnam are no different from Western countries. You do not need to practice or know any kind of welcome when you are in Vietnam
Vietnamese will dress traditionally. You should dress decently without showing off too much of the skin. If girls are traveling alone, you should be wearing the dress appropriately to avoid creepy looks.
Dress with pagodas. You should avoid wearing t-shirts and shorts. You can wear shoes, and you do not need to remove them until you come back to the hotel. If you are not sure what to wear, you need to follow the locals dressing.

Don’ts

Do not wear a lot of jewelry. Even if you have jewelry, you need to take that bag with you. Though violent crime rates are low, many petty crimes happen often. If you have a camera, wear it around the neck and keep your bag safe.
When you are taking a ride in a motorbike or taxi, ensure that the bag is not on the display since it becomes easy for the pickpocketing people to grab. Bag snatching is a common crime in the country, and there are high chances of miscreants to steal your laptops and cameras.
Do not wear skirts, shorts and other dresses to the temples

What do you need to keep a watch on when traveling in Vietnam?

You cannot show affection in public. You will see the couples holding their hands clinging together, but do not kiss or hug in public.
You should not lose temper in Vietnam. Try to stay polite and calm to avoid getting into trouble.
You need to drink a lot of water to keep yourself hydrated. You do not need to carry bottles with you since there are many vendors available in the stone throw distance from your place.
You need to keep the credit cards, cash, airline tickets and other valuables with you safely
Travel only with the tour agencies that are reliable and certified. Even if you are planning to travel alone without taking the help of tour agencies, you need to research correctly and learn the country from fellow travelers who have already visited Vietnam.
Do not put valuable stuff in the checked bags
Use only taxis and public transportation
Use Maps to calculate the distance to reach your destination to avoid falling prey to taxi drivers’ frauds
Keep the money in the front pocket
Buy medicines if you have any problem after eating the street food in Vietnam

Family travel to Vietnam

Vietnam is the best destination to visit with families as it is packed with many fabulous activities. Kids would love to know a little bit about the history of the country, but do not show interest in visiting temples and historical places. Few of the activities that make your family travel to Vietnam a memory includes:

Take an auto-rickshaw ride in the streets of Hanoi: Many families will either start their trip or end their journey by going on the roads of Hanoi. This street is always bustling. So, the parents need to keep their children close by. You can enjoy the mayhem of the road by getting into the auto-rickshaw and tour around the old city enjoying its culture, vibes, and beauty. The driver takes you through the noisy streets where you can see colorful handicrafts and fresh flower stalls.

Pu Luong homestay: You can take your kids to Vietnam in their summer vacation to have a good time with the family. The night stay in the village homes will be an excellent experience for your kids where they can enjoy the view of the lush green fillers around and fresh air. The farms surrounded by deep mountains give a breathtaking view. When you visit the villages of Vietnam, your family can enjoy the food that is cooked on an open fire and sleep on the floor. Night stay in the town has to be experienced by the kids living in the city culture once.

Female travel in Vietnam

Women are traveling around the world due to their flexible working patterns and the ability to spend more. The best part of going alone is that you can fall in love with the spirituality of the place, culture, and nature. Besides, you will have the freedom to make your plans and enjoy the sense of accomplishment by conquering the challenges a woman faces in the travel by yourself.

Women who want to travel alone or in a group can happily go. Though you see catcalling in a few places, taking safety measures while walking alone during night times can help you avoid those. Though serious crimes are minimal, be careful of the petty crimes. You need to keep the documents and bags with you and keep a tab on those.

There are plenty of opportunities for women to make new friends and meet people from across the globe on your tourist trails. These are a few things that you should not miss to do when you are going alone to Vietnam

Stay in the local Vietnamese family that is in the Ho Chi Minh City
Go for adventurous trekking in the Sapa and enjoy hiking with the female guides
Take the bicycles for rent and go around the narrow lanes of the streets and coastal towns
Attend traditional cooking classes to learn how to prepare Vietnamese food delicacies
Go around the streets of Hai An
Witness the visual treat of Halong Bay that makes you feel like it is closer to your life
Relax in the beautiful blue sea beaches enjoying the coastline of Vietnam
Immerse in the culture and history of the place

What woman can enjoy in Vietnam

People in rural areas would stare and try to strike a conversation with you. Though it makes you feel uncomfortable, it is also good to learn about their culture by talking to them. Many people in Vietnam are friendly and very helpful, but you need to be cautious of the scams.

When you think you would be in trouble, try to stay polite. Apart from the adventurous trips, there are endless wellness treats available for women in the country, such as chicks club that organizes weekend getaways and retreats for females focusing on Yoga and meditation.

For backpackers, there are many female dormitories and hostels available in tourist places.

Travel in a group

Though you are exploring different places by yourself, it is now time to go to Vietnam in a group. Many tour agencies plan your trip with the group. You can either go with your friends in a group or join the group of solo travelers who are traveling through the same travel agency that you have approached. Group travel will help you to get rid of many travel problems

There are many benefits of traveling in a group to Vietnam

Do not need to worry about the language barriers: When you are going in a group to Vietnam, you do not need to worry because there would be a group of travelers with you who can deal with the locals verbally. For a group, the travel agency will send a local guide.

Cut down the budget: When you are going in a group, you need to set a budget. The budget must not be too high or too low; after all, you are going for fun and relaxation. By going to a group, you can limit your expenses on accommodation and many other things. However, before going to Vietnam, you need to read about the positive image of the country to get some insights.

Accommodation: If you are going to a group, the person who already visited Vietnam will arrange the accommodation in advance. If your group has a limited budget, you can go for the Boutique hostels, as these are cheap and comfortable.

Safety: When you are going in a group, there will be a group leader who will give proper advises avoiding the mess in the new place. When something goes wrong in the back, be it health-wise or get into arguments, the group people will help you to get out of the trouble.

Electricity safety in Vietnam

The electricity in Vietnam is 220 volts. You will find the plugs in Vietnam to be having two round pins and sometimes come across the two flat pins and three pins. You can find the adaptors in any of the electrical shops to charge your mobiles or laptops. The power supply is interrupted more often. So, prepare yourself to experience power cuts and surges. The Power outlets are compatible to use with the US plug or European one. Before leaving for Vietnam, you need to carry the adapter along with you.

Water safety in Vietnam

It is highly recommended not to drink tap water whenever you are. However, few of the top hotels will filter the water and release the same water through the taps. You can drink the water after filtration but never drink river water. It is good to avoid ice when you are drinking juices outside except in the top hotels and reliable food courts.

The water that is contaminated with bacteria and viruses would cause sickness. It may disturb the whole travel itinerary of yours. So, you need to be careful while drinking the water outside. The microorganisms in the water would cause different health ailments such as diarrhea, typhoid, cholera, and other issues. These diseases would trigger even when you drink the water that seems to be clean and safe.

Luckily, there are different types of drinks available to quench the thirst, such as hot tea. You can get the carbonated beverages and bottled water at a lower price. When you are buying bottled water, you need to make sure that the seal of the bottle is proper and the water is clear. Many would refill the water in the used bottles and sell it to the people.

Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have tap water that is properly chlorinated, and many travelers use this to brush their teeth without any issue. You must not use tap water for cleaning the teeth since it is impure. You need to be careful in the areas where there are floods, since sewage water may get along with the water system.

Sea cretures

Vietnam is famous for its many beautiful beaches. You can both enjoy the picturesque beauty of the place and diverse marine life. You can dive deep to witness the stunning and colorful sea creatures that are mostly found in the Vietnam region. The incredible sea creatures are located in the Vietnam Balmy seas.

Phu Quoc’s horned sea star: This is a kind of starfish that is found in the tropical seas of Vietnam. The thorns of this sea creature are used to scare the predators and surprise the tourists. However, this creature does not pose any harm to tourists. If you want to witness the beautiful sea creatures and especially this one, you need to travel to Phu Quoc.

Whale sharks of Nha Trang: People who want to see the sea creatures would like first to witness sharks. The whale sharks in the Vietnam Sea are around 40 feet and weigh 200 tons. Moreover, the shark is the longest creature that is found in the sea. This one will float to the bays of the Nha Trang and give a feast to the tourists. It will live on krill and Plankton.

Ocean sunfish: This is also called by the other name, i.e., Mola Mola, whose weight is around 2000 pounds. It is the giant fish that one can catch its attention at the winding coastline. It is also found in the fishing nets of the fishermen. However, you cannot consume this fish as this is an endangered ocean giant.

Hunted hawksbill turtle: This is the endangered sea turtle that is found in the stretching coastline of Vietnam. You can witness the beautiful hawksbill in the clear waters of Nha Trang. Due to illegal fishing, the population of this sea creature has been reduced drastically.

Food safety

When you are visiting a new place or country, you would love to try out the food delicacies that are special in that place. Vietnam has been a country where food safety issues are frequent. Food in Vietnam, especially the street food that is sold, is not safe to consume. The vendors will not take any hygienic precautions while preparing the food. The sidewalk eateries will use adulterated ingredients to save money. If you are buying vegetables in Vietnam, you need to wash them neatly before eating.

To keep food poisoning at bay, a few of the safety precautions you need to take while having food in Vietnam include:

Soupy dishes are the main dishes in Vietnamese cuisine. These dishes have more chances of you falling sick. When you order Pho ensure to consume the meal when it is piping hot.
Clean the cutlery that you are going to use thoroughly. The quality of air in Saigon is reduced, and therefore, dust would settle on the tables and utensils. Though you do not need to deep clean everything that you use to have the meal, you need to wipe it gently using the napkin to keep dust at bay.
Eat the food that is cooked thoroughly and stay away from the raw meat. You can try out the seafood in the Sushi restaurants if you are going to stay in Vietnam for a short time.
You must not eat raw vegetables and salads. You can add herbs to the hot Pho.
Be cautious while consuming the fruits and vegetables with skin and avoid eating apples and grapes
When you are eating something use sanitizer to clean the hands

Transportation safety

Vietnam has excellent transportation facilities where travelers can travel from one place to another without any hassle with the available mode of transportations safely. When going to long-distance, airplanes, trains, and long-distance buses are available for travelers. If you are traveling within the city, you can use Taxi, buses, cyclo, and XeOm. These are the most cost-effective and best ways to go to town.

Cyclo: This is a three-wheeled bicycle taxi that has two seating that has two large wheels in the front and a small bicycle seat behind, which is supported by a single wheel. Though the people in the city do not widely use this, many tourists love to try out this option to explore the city traveling even in narrow lanes. This vehicle is best to take a glimpse of city life.

You need to be wary of notorious drivers. They create fuss and nuisance on the road to make you pay a whopping price for the ride. It is not recommended to use cyclo during the night times since there are many mugging and theft cases been registered. Cyclo is the best option to go for a relaxed tour of the city during the day time.

Xe Om: This is a motorcycle taxi and is the best transportation option available for solo travelers to explore the city and go to the sightseeing places by escaping congested traffic areas. You have to pay to the drivers depending on the traffic, distance, and terrain. The driver would provide you with the helmet and ensure that you reach safely and on time to the destination. If you are traveling on busy roads, then this will be the best option. You can also enjoy the thrill of riding on the downhill.

Cheap and safe transportation

Local buses: Many buses are run to offer better connectivity throughout the city. The bus fares are also economical. These buses let you reach the destination quickly. However, during peak hours, you must not take local buses as it is highly uncomfortable to stand. You also need to keep a close watch on the wallet or purse. The other problem is that the drivers do not stop for a minute at every stop. The pickup and drop points are far away from the tourist attractions.

Taxi: This is the safe and reasonable option available for travelers. They run on a meter. You need to hire the branded taxis to have a smooth and hassle-free ride.

Road safety

Many traffic laws promote road safety in Vietnam. The police are ready to slam a considerable amount of fines on the people driving in the wrong route, jumping the red signals and using the sidewalks like a driving lane. Be it; you are the citizen of the country or a foreigner, both are fined the same.

Not more than two people should go on the bike:
Do not go beyond the speed limit set by the police authorities
Do not forget the kickstand
Do not drink and drive the vehicle
You should not blow horn during the night times
You cannot weave hands
Do not run away when the accident happens due to your mistake
Do not use a cell phone while riding the vehicle
You have to wear a helmet
You cannot ride along with the other person side by side
You cannot offer a push to the friend whose vehicle has flat tire or trouble till the repair shop

What needs to be careful about when traveling in Vietnam?

Vietnam is a safe yet incredible destination for travelers to enjoy its beauty and attractiveness. Though the country is peaceful, there are a few things that you need to be careful about in your trip to ensure that you have a hassle-free and memorable experience:

Ensure that you are using only reliable tour operators when you are looking for tours to Vietnam
Ensure that you carry all the required documents, photos and cash along with VISA
Do not underestimate the weather as it varies unpredictably
You need to be cautious while consuming the street food
Always wash and peel the fruits and vegetables you eat and do not drink tap water
Keep the phone and wallet out of sight of miscreants and make sure that the purse is in front of you

Do not keep the passport in the backpack
Do not forget to take the hotel business card
Many people will not accept credit or debit card, most of the places where you are going for shopping or doing any service, you would need to pay cash
Stroll when you are crossing the street
Do not give tips in the restaurants
When you are visiting the temples, you need to cover with scarf or pagodas
Do not depend on the taxi meter as the dishonest taxi drivers will burn holes in your pockets
Do not take the photographs without seeking the permission of the people
Do not lose your temper
You need to negotiate on the things you are buying
Take travel insurance from the reliable insurance vendor
Learn a few words in Vietnam

Laws and culture in Vietnam– safety aspects

The laws in Vietnam are not as strict as the other countries, but people who break the rules would be put behind bars. It is a conservative country where the adoption of western culture at an extreme level is not tolerated.

These are the laws and cultures that you need to know to stay trouble-free and have a great and enjoyable visit to Vietnam

Drug laws: The penalties imposed on the drugs are more. As per Vietnam’s drug law, any person who is selling or consuming small amounts of heroin is given a death sentence. Many foreigners are going through the imprisonment sentence. There are many safety measures taken by the government to reduce drug trafficking. The travelers need to beware of the recreational drugs sold in this country. If you want to party, you have to do is cautious.

Sensitive photography: When you capture the photographs of military or border crossing, you will put behind bars.

Sensitive borders: If you do not take the required permissions from the local authorities while crossing the boundaries, there are high chances of you getting the punishment.

Antiques: You cannot export antique pieces out of the country without permission. The Ministry of Culture will give you the proper instructions if you need any required permits.

Gambling: It is illegal to play in the casinos other than the government casinos. If anyone found playing in different casinos would be facing the charges and are sentenced to imprisonment.

Politics: If any foreigner is carrying out political actions that have an impact on the government, then the person would be put behind bars or detained.

Prostitution: This is illegal in the country

Blogging: If someone is blogging about the Vietnam government and discussing the same in the online chat rooms would be under arrest and questioned.

Crime in Vietnam

Vietnam is a safe place to travel, but alike to the other countries, it has its share of sins. When you go on the streets of Vietnam, you can see poor people begging on roads and children pushing you to offer them alms. However, if you want to donate money, you can give it to the authorized organizations that will take the money and help the poor.

You should not leave the bags dangling on the body, as many snatchers would snatch and go away. If you do not want to fall prey to the snatching, you should keep all your valuable things in the hotel before leaving for the tourist destinations. There are a few children who look innocent, but lift wallets, passports, and cameras. When you have a conversation with them, you need to keep a close watch.

Few of the severe crimes include

Petty crimes
Military and political hazards
Drug trafficking
Beggars and scams

Medical treatment in Vietnam

The medical tourism of the country is growing at a brisk pace. This country offers traditional medicine and high-quality treatment procedures. Many medical tourists visit this country to cure their health ailments.

The ex-pat who is visiting the country has to take private insurance before traveling to Vietnam. The quality standards of the public hospitals in the country are not so high. The hospitals do not have the proper equipment, and the medical staff can only talk in Vietnam. The private hospitals will give the best treatment and also accept international insurance. Vietnam is famous for dental care. There are top dentists and dermatologists you can find in this country. The dental-related procedures are pretty low compared to other countries.

Moreover, the treatment quality, skills of the doctor, and usage of technical equipment is top-notch. Traditional medicine is also famous in the country. Tourists can undergo oriental medicine and acupuncture.

Recommended travel insurance

Every traveler needs to take the best travel insurance that offers better coverage to cover the theft, illness, and injury during the travel.

The best available travel insurance is with World Nomands.

Please note: we are affiliate with Travel Nomands Insurance. However, we do encourage you to click here and check Travel Nomands insurance package by your self.

Tourists scam to avoid

People of Vietnam like to shower their love for the foreigners. Unfortunately, many scammers prey for the tourist to steal their valuables. When you are in Vietnam, you need to keep a tab on these things:

When you try to pay the amount to the motorbike taxi drivers, they try to cheat you and portray as if you are ripping them. You need to get a proper change to avoid this scam
The beautiful girls will play with the groin of handsome boys and men, and when the boy shows a small distraction, the girl will steal the money from pockets
There are fake taxi companies who will tamper the meter and charge whopping money even for a short distance
Fake tour agencies will trick the foreigners who do not know Vietnam and take the money
Many motorbike taxi drivers will be wandering around the hotels and hostels where tourist stays to sell tea bags in the name of marijuana. When you pay the amount, they keep the tea bags in your hand and leave the place.
Beautiful women seduce men and demand money. When the men refuse to pay the money, they will call gangsters
Taxi drivers make the tourist wander around and take many dollars extra from them
They ask you to pay extra money for loading bags to the buses.

Climate safety

The climate in the country is unpredictable. There are chances of you to freeze during the monsoon season. It is better to carry light jackets when flying to Vietnam. The peak season would be in the mid of December, and it would continue till February.

If you are traveling to North Vietnam, you can plan your trip in April to June months or from September to November months. These are the sunny days where the monsoon will come to an end. From December to March, the weather turns cold and is not at all suitable to go for hiking or sailing in the boat in Halong Bay.
If you are traveling to Central Vietnam, you can plan the trip from January to June. There will be torrential rains during the October and November months and sunny from May to August.
If you are traveling to Southern Vietnam, you can plan the trip from January to April. You can witness the beauty of the country. Moreover, you can visit the South region anytime throughout the year, but not between May to November, since it is the monsoon season.

You need to pack dry clothes, a rain jacket and a pair of hiking shoes.

Where to get safety updates

These are a few sites from where you can get safety updates regularly:

With many tourists thronging to this place to enjoy their holidays, few dangers are common. However, the Vietnam government is taking measures to control the crime rate. Moreover, this country is known to be safe.

So, what are you waiting for, plan your next vacation to Vietnam right today?