10 Essential Tips: What to Know When Traveling to Vietnam

Embarking on a journey to Vietnam? This captivating country promises a rich tapestry of experiences, from bustling cities and ancient temples to breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cuisine. However, to truly make the most of your adventure, it’s essential to be prepared.

In this guide, we’ll unveil 10 essential tips and what to know when traveling to Vietnam. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time explorer, these insider tips will ensure a smooth and enriching journey through the enchanting land of Vietnam.

What to Know When Traveling to Vietnam: A Comprehensive Guide

Choose the Perfect Season and Region

When planning your journey to Vietnam, the right timing and location can make all the difference in creating an unforgettable experience. Let’s explore how selecting the ideal season and region can enhance your travels in this vibrant and diverse country.

Vietnam experiences three distinct seasons: dry season, rainy season, and monsoon season. In order to maximize your journey, take into account the following:

Dry Season (November – April):

• Ideal for exploring Northern Vietnam, including Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Sapa.
• Enjoy clear skies and comfortable temperatures for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
• Perfect for trekking in the highlands and cruising on the iconic Halong Bay.

Rainy Season (May – October):

• Best suited for visiting Central Vietnam destinations like Hue, Hoi An, and Da Nang.
• Experience lush landscapes and vibrant greenery amidst occasional rain showers.
• Take advantage of fewer crowds and lower prices during this off-peak period.

Monsoon Season (July – November):

• Perfect for exploring Southern Vietnam destinations such as Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta.
• Embrace the tropical climate and occasional downpours, which add to the region’s lush beauty.
• Discover the rich culture and history of cities like Ho Chi Minh City and indulge in delicious street food.

Secure Your Visa In Advance

If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, it’s crucial to sort out your visa well in advance. This will ensure a smooth entry into the country and prevent unnecessary delays or complications upon arrival.

There are several types of visas available for Vietnam, depending on your purpose and duration of stay. The most common ones for tourists are:

• E-Visa: This is the most convenient option for citizens of 80 eligible countries. You can apply online through the official government website and receive your visa electronically. E-visas are typically single-entry and valid for 30 days.
• Visa on Arrival (VOA): This option requires you to obtain a visa approval letter online beforehand and then get the visa stamped at a designated airport in Vietnam. It’s also valid for 30 days and a single entry.

You can apply for a Vietnamese visa as early as six months before your intended travel date. However, it’s generally recommended that you apply at least two weeks in advance to allow sufficient time for processing. The processing time for e-visas is usually three working days, while for VOAs, it can take 1-2 working days for the approval letter.

> You might want to read: Your Necessary Checklist for Traveling to Vietnam

Eat Like A Local

While Vietnam boasts a vibrant scene of upscale dining, its street food culture is the true heart and soul of Vietnamese cuisine. Out-of-this-world flavors explode in every bite, all without breaking the bank. Dive into a world of vibrant colors, tantalizing aromas, and sizzling sounds as you explore bustling markets and street-side stalls.

Sample iconic dishes like phở, the beloved noodle soup, or bánh mì, the crispy baguette filled with savory goodness. Savor the delicate balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy in each dish, a symphony of flavors that dance on your tongue.

Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and try lesser-known delicacies. Ask locals for recommendations or simply follow your nose – the most authentic experiences are often found tucked away in hidden corners. So, grab a plastic stool, order a refreshing bia hơi (local draft beer), and embrace the vibrant energy of Vietnam’s street food scene. Your taste buds will thank you!

> See Tour: Taste of Vietnam

Don’t Drink Tap Water

Due to potential contaminants like bacteria, heavy metals, or chemicals, drinking directly from the tap is not recommended. The water infrastructure, especially in rural areas, may not be equipped to remove these substances entirely.

Instead, opt for bottled water, which is widely available and inexpensive. Look for reputable brands and ensure the seal is intact. Alternatively, consider using a water filter or purification tablets to treat tap water if you’re traveling on a budget or concerned about plastic waste.

In restaurants and cafes, stick to bottled drinks or beverages made with boiled water like tea or coffee. By taking these precautions, you can avoid potential stomach upset and enjoy your Vietnamese adventure to the fullest. Remember, staying hydrated is crucial, especially in the warm climate, so choose your water sources wisely!

Consider Sleeper Buses and Trains for Budget-Friendly and Efficient Travel

While domestic flights in Vietnam are budget-friendly, consider incorporating sleeper buses and trains into your itinerary for a more sustainable and cost-effective option. These overnight services allow you to cover significant distances while saving on accommodation costs and maximizing your sightseeing time.

For enhanced comfort, reserve a fully horizontal berth on both buses and trains, ensuring a restful night’s sleep during your journey. Buses have become a popular choice among travelers, thanks to fixed-price tickets and the introduction of “open-tour” buses that provide greater comfort on major tourist routes.

Train enthusiasts should take note of essential routes like the shuttle from Da Nang to Hue (2-3 hours) and the overnight journeys from Hue to Hanoi (11-16 hours) and Hanoi to Lao Cai (8-9 hours). By factoring in sleeper buses and trains, you can optimize your travel experience while minimizing your carbon footprint.

Respect Vietnam’s Spiritual Heritage

Vietnam’s diverse religious landscape encompasses Buddhism, Hinduism, Confucianism, Taoism, and Christianity, each with its unique customs and practices. As a visitor, showing reverence for these traditions is essential to fostering cultural understanding and avoiding unintentional offense.

When entering temples, churches, or other religious sites, dress modestly, covering your legs and upper arms. Removing your shoes and hat might be required. Remember, these are places of worship, not tourist attractions.

What you should know about Vietnam is to be mindful of your body language. Avoid touching people’s heads, a gesture considered disrespectful in Buddhist culture. Similarly, refrain from pointing the soles of your feet toward others or religious statues.

Observe the atmosphere and follow the locals’ lead. If unsure about appropriate behavior, watch how others act and emulate their conduct. Remember, a little respect goes a long way in building bridges across cultures and ensuring a positive experience for everyone.

Respect Vietnamese Dining Etiquette

While enjoying delicious Vietnamese cuisine, it’s important to be mindful of dining etiquette to avoid unintentional faux pas. Chopstick usage, in particular, comes with certain taboos.  

Leaving chopsticks upright in a bowl resembles incense sticks for the deceased, so avoid this practice. Also, never tap your bowl with chopsticks, as it’s associated with begging.

When dining with others, be considerate by using clean chopsticks or the reverse ends of your own to pass food. This shows respect and ensures hygiene. Additionally, refrain from using chopsticks of uneven length, as it’s considered bad luck.

By paying attention to these cultural nuances, you’ll demonstrate respect for Vietnamese traditions and enhance your dining experience.

Master the Art of Haggling in Vietnam

Haggling is a common practice in Vietnam, especially in markets and souvenir shops. Don’t be afraid to negotiate, as the initial price is often inflated. Approach bargaining as a friendly game, not a confrontation.

Start by offering a lower counteroffer to the initial price. The seller will likely respond with a higher price, and you can then counter again. This back-and-forth continues until you both agree on a price. Remember, it’s okay to walk away if you’re not happy with the final price.

Taxis are another area where bargaining is common. Always agree on a price before starting your journey to avoid any misunderstandings later.

Keep the bargaining process lighthearted and respectful. Avoid insulting the seller by offering an unreasonably low price. With a bit of practice and a friendly attitude, you’ll soon be bargaining like a pro in Vietnam!

> You might love this tour: Vietnam Essentials

Don’t Show Your Affection In Excessive Ways

While Vietnam is a welcoming and diverse country, public displays of affection are generally less common compared to other places. To avoid unwanted attention or appearing disrespectful, it’s best to tone down the romantic gestures while you’re out and about. Save the hugs and kisses for private moments.

This applies to couples of all orientations. Although same-sex relationships are not illegal in Vietnam, and major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have thriving LGBTQ+ communities, public displays of affection are still not widely accepted across the country.

Remember, showing respect for local customs and traditions is an important part of responsible travel. By being mindful of cultural differences, you can ensure a positive and enjoyable experience for both yourself and the people you meet during your time in Vietnam.

Say No to Sex Tourism and Drug

While Vietnam is a beautiful and culturally rich country, it’s important to be aware of the dark side of its tourism industry. Sex tourism, a legacy of the American War, continues to exploit vulnerable individuals.

As a responsible traveler, you can easily avoid supporting this harmful industry. Be cautious of establishments with scantily clad staff and excessive neon lighting, often indicators of places where the sex trade occurs.

Remember, some hotels have policies against foreign men sharing rooms with Vietnamese women, which can be inconvenient for genuine couples.

Additionally, steer clear of illegal drugs. While readily available in certain circles, the penalties for possession are severe, even for small amounts. Many travelers have faced imprisonment, and the death penalty is a possibility in drug-related cases.

> Learn more: 12 Important Questions When You Plan A Trip To Vietnam

Local Customs: Embracing Vietnamese Etiquette and Traditions With Asia Trip Deals

And that’s it, folks! When preparing for your journey, what to know when traveling to Vietnam is paramount. These ten things to know before visiting Vietnam should greatly assist you, from organizing your Vietnam visa to planning an exciting multi-destination itinerary. 

Feeling inspired? Our local experts can plan wonderful trips to Vietnam for you without the hassle of planning and booking. Let us take care of the details, ensuring your travel experience is seamless and unforgettable. 

Trust Asia Pioneer Travel to make your Vietnam journey smooth and memorable.