Vietnam is incredibly diverse, with majestic mountains in the north, spectacular beaches, and virtually everything else. Whether traveling as a family, a couple, or backpacking solo, Vietnam is an actual party in the senses. Home to delicious food, a rich culture, fascinating history, stunning architecture, and friendly locals, Vietnam has something to offer everyone. From hiking the mountains around Sa Pa to exploring the Mekong Delta in the south, Vietnam has something for everyone.
To ensure you get the very most from your first trip to Vietnam, you must put a plan in place from the outset. While transport options are plentiful, the roads are not great in places, and traffic congestion can be a real issue. In addition, rural areas may require private transport to reach, which will need to be organized in advance. Moreover, travel times can be especially long in these areas where there are no highways.
Let’s examine some simple tips for making the most of your Southeast Asian adventure in Vietnam.
Money Management for First-timers
Vietnamese Dong is the currency in Vietnam, but US dollars are also accepted in big cities. However, cash is undoubtedly king, and ATMs are not challenging to come by, especially in cities and tourist areas. With that said, most hotels and service providers will also accept credit cards.
Arrange Your Vietnam Visa Before Travelling
Most visitors can only arrive in Vietnam and get stamped through with organizing their visas in advance. Unlike neighboring Thailand, you must get a preapproval letter before arriving in Vietnam. Many online services offer “visa services”, some that might look official but will charge you a premium. For a single-entry 30-day visa, go through the official government website to complete the entire visa process online.
Pack Appropriately
Vietnam is a diverse country with various climates and weather conditions. If you are traveling in the mountains, the weather can get quite cold and wet during the day, with the temperatures dropping even lower at night. Further south, the weather tends to be much warmer, although, in the rainy season, it can get very wet and hot. Make sure to research the weather conditions for where you are going and the time of the year you are traveling to ensure you pack appropriately.
Be Aware of Dangers
Traveling in Vietnam is generally relatively safe. However, as with any big city, keep an eye on your belongings if you are out and about. Keeping your valuables with you or in a safe at your hotel will give you more peace of mind while exploring. Crossing the road is probably one of the biggest challenges here as the traffic is hectic, with countless motorbikes vying for position on the streets. Keep your wits about you, cross at designated crossings, and remember that road rules are often broken, so don’t take anything for granted.
Learn Some Vietnamese
While English is widely spoken in Vietnam, it’s always worth learning key phrases before you embark on your travels. Having a few words of the local language will always get a great reaction from the locals. Learning the language is unnecessary; you will get by with English alone. However, if you want to get off the beaten track or enhance your overall experience, take the time to learn some survival Vietnamese before you set off.
Get a Local SIM card
If your phone is unlocked, you can pick up a Vietnamese SIM card for a very cheap price. 4G connectivity is surprisingly good, even in more remote areas of the country. Getting a local SIM card can often be much more affordable than paying roaming charges, which can ensure you stay connected and share your adventures with friends and family back home or stay in touch with anyone you meet along the way with ease.
Make Sure You Get the Very Most From Your First Time in Vietnam
Vietnam is an incredible country with so much to offer. To ensure you get the most from your travels, follow the tips outlined above. These simple tips will help to make your travels easier and stress-free so you can maximize your time in this fantastic part of the world.