Vietnam
THE ULTIMATE VIETNAM TRAVEL GUIDE
Vietnam is probably the destination I’ve looked forward to visiting the most in my entire life.
I became fascinated about the Country when I was in high school studying tourism, but, for some reason, I traveled to Vietnam only last year after having visited many South-Eastern Asia Countries (such as Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia).
My expectations for this trip were SO high that I was almost sure I’d go back home somewhat disappointed.
WRONG!
Vietnam was exactly as I imagined it: gorgeous beyond words.
Want to know more? Here it is the Ultimate Vietnam Travel Guide, for a perfect Vietnam vacation!
WHAT TO EXPECT
Language: The official language in Vietnam is Vietnamese, but English is widely spoken. Some elderly also speak French.
Credit cards/ATM: Major credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are basically everywhere, especially in big cities like Hanoi, Saigon, or Danang.
Currency: The currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). 1 USD is equivalent to about 23265 dongs while 1€ is about 26079 dong. US dollars can be exchanged and used widely but be aware some older 100$ bills are not accepted.
Plugs: The plugs in Vietnam are type A, C, and F. Voltage is 220 V, and the frequency is 50Hz. Remember to pack a universal adapter plus a converter for hair dryers.
Tipping: Tips are not expected in Vietnam but always appreciated.
WHEN TO GO
Vietnam is a year-round destination but, if you want to travel the whole Country, you probably want to choose some time between April-June or September-November when the climate is mostly stable everywhere (and it is considered low season, so great prices!)
Essentially, there are two different climate zone in Vietnam: North and South of the city of Nha Trang (central).
In the South, there are two seasons: hot and dry (November-March) and the rainy season (April-October).
While in the North, the cool and rainy season (October-March) alternates with a hot and humid Summer (April-September).
July and August are the most expensive months to travel to Vietnam (hello high season), and prices can increase by up to 50% by the coast. The same thing during the Tet festival (late January or early February) when the whole Country is on the move and prices rise.
ETIQUETTE IN VIETNAM
Don’t pat heads, especially of children. This is quite common in South East Asia: since the head is the sacred part of the body, touching it is considered disrespectful.
Feet: do not point your feet to the Buddha. Since feet are opposite to the head and therefore considered the “dirtiest” part of the body, pointing it to people or sacred objects, it is regarded as offensive/impolite.
Entering Houses: remember to take off your shoes before entering a private house.
TIPS FOR A PERFECT VIETNAM EXPERIENCE
- Be careful with street food
- Planning is going to save you time and money
- Choose your accommodation wisely
- Find a local guide
Keep reading the TIPS FOR A PERFECT FIRST TIME IN VIETNAM
Tips for Vietnam
DESTINATIONS IN VIETNAM
Hanoi
Halong Bay
Hoi An
Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City)
Mekong Delta
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November 24, 2019
