HEALTH REQUIREMENTS
No actual vaccinations are officially required. Noted in our Vietnam travel tips, travelers are advised to check with their doctor or travel immunization clinic regarding the advisability of inoculation against typhoid, tetanus, hepatitis A & B and malaria. It is recommended that all travelers take out comprehensive Personal Travel Insurance to cover personal belongings, or in case of accident or illness, etc.
ELECTRICITY
The usual voltage is 220V, 50Hz. The two-pin (ungrounded) plug is more popular than the three-pin one. If you have any devices needing a special outlet, please bring its adapter kit. The best investment is a universal AC adapter, which enables you to plug it into any outlet without damaging your appliances.
CURRENCY, MONEY EXCHANGE & ATM
The local currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND or ₫). Foreign currencies can be exchanged at banks, hotels, airports, and authorized exchange counters.
Cash is widely used, while Visa and Mastercard are commonly accepted. ATMs are available in most cities and tourist destinations.
Exchange rates fluctuate daily, so check the latest rate before or during your trip.
PACKING LIST
Be a smart traveler. Before heading overseas, make a list of things to bring. You are recommended to “travel light” as much as possible. Please refer to the weather section of the website to identify what you should pack (sunblock, appropriate clothes, hat, mosquito repellant etc.)
SAFETY
Ostentatious displays of money, jewelry, luggage, and dress can encourage the wrong type of attention. When travelling, be aware of where your luggage is at all times- particularly your hand bag, camera, etc. Do not leave them unattended or hanging on the back of chairs in restaurants. Petty theft is also common on crowded trains, buses, and at supermarkets.
ETIQUETTE – one of the important part of Vietnam travel tips
• Vietnamese society is an interesting blend of modern and traditional. Rural areas are known to be more traditional than big cities, hence it is appropriate to dress modestly in rural areas as well as in temples, museums and historical heritage sites.
• It is worth noting that in Vietnam, pointing at something or somebody with your finger is considered impolite, as well as touching people, especially on the head
• Vietnamese society is very respectful of its elders and while nobody would say a thing in any circumstance, it is again appropriate to respect elderly people, help them cross the street and keep your voice low when talking to them.
• Ask to the person you want to take a picture of if it’s okay to do so.
TIME ZONE & WORKING HOUR
Local time is GMT + 7 hours. Most government offices are open from 8:00 / 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 / 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, but are closed from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. for lunch. Banks are closed after 4:00 p.m. Some foreign companies or private enterprises are open Saturday mornings. Most shops and department stores are open every day until 8.00 or 9.00 p.m.
MUSEUMS OPENING TIME
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is open every morning (except for Mondays & Fridays) and is closed in the afternoon and during the months of October and November for maintenance. Most museums and mausoleums are closed on Mondays except for the War Museum in Ho Chi Minh City (now called the Museum of Vietnamese Revolutionary History) and the Ho Chi Minh Trails Museum which is closed on Mondays and Fridays. The Fine Arts Museum is open to the public every day from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
LANGUAGE
Vietnamese is the official language of Vietnam. English is widely used in business. Other popular languages include French, German, Spanish, Italian, Chinese, Japanese, Thai and Russian.
POST & COMMUNICATIONS
Vietnam has a well-developed telecommunications network.
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Local SIM cards and eSIMs are easily purchased upon arrival
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Free Wi-Fi is available in hotels, cafes, and airports
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Messaging apps such as WhatsApp, Messenger, and Zalo are widely used
Postal services operate nationwide, though international delivery may take longer. For international calls, VOIP services can help reduce costs. Hotel calls may include additional surcharges, so check the rates before calling.
DOMESTIC FLIGHTS & AIRPORT TAXES
Flight schedules and fares are subject to change, so travelers should check and reconfirm flight details before departure.
Baggage allowance varies by airline and fare type. Check your ticket or airline’s policy for the latest allowance. Airport taxes are generally included in the airfare.
Airport departure tax for domestic and international flights is included in the airfare issued.
- International flights: Hanoi (HAN), Ho Chi Minh City (SGN), Da Nang (DAD).
- Domestic flights: Vietnam Airlines, SunPhuQuoc Airways, VietJet Air, — affordable and frequent.
TRANSPORTATION
- Trains: The Reunification Express runs Hanoi → HCMC (30+ hrs, scenic but slow).
- Buses: Sleeper buses connect Hanoi ↔ Hue ↔ Hoi An, Sleeper buses connect Hanoi ↔ Hagiang; Sapa.
- Private cars & drivers: Good for day trips and rural tours.
- Taxis & ride-hailing: Use Grab for safety and better pricing.
- Motorbikes: $7–15/day. Fun but risky; international license required.
FOOD AND DRINKS – Vietnam travel tips
Vietnamese cuisine is known for being fresh, light, and flavorful, with influences from Chinese and French cuisine. Popular dishes include pho, spring rolls, and clay-pot dishes, while tropical fruits such as mangosteen, rambutan, and dragon fruit are widely available.
Vietnamese coffee and draft beer are popular but can be strong. Tap water is not recommended; bottled water is widely available. Ice is generally safe in hotels and restaurants, but caution is advised when eating at local markets or street stalls.
SHOPPING & BARGAINING
Vietnam offers a wide range of shopping experiences, from modern malls and boutiques to lively local markets and street stalls. Popular souvenirs include handicrafts, artwork, antiques, gems, and local specialties.
Bargaining is common in many markets. Check typical prices beforehand, negotiate with a smile, and stay polite. If you are not interested in buying, simply say “no” politely and firmly and continue walking.