Vietnam currently offers visa exemptions from 15 to 30 days for citizens of 22 countries.
Visas exempt for those passport bearers:
Find out if you qualify for a Vietnam visa exemption here.
As an overseas Vietnamese visitor, you may not need a visa to enter Vietnam. The Vietnamese government exempts overseas Vietnamese and foreigners who are spouses or children of overseas Vietnamese or Vietnamese citizens from visa requirements. This means that you can enter Vietnam without a visa and stay for up to six months. It is important to note that this exemption only applies to certain groups of people and there are still visa requirements for other visitors. Make sure to check with the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your country to confirm whether you are eligible for a visa exemption.
Read more: Vietnam Visa Requirements
Foreigners and Vietnamese people holding foreign passports are allowed to stay in Phu Quoc Island for no more than 30 days without a visa. Foreigners who transit via an international entry point into Vietnam (by air or sea) and then directly onwards to Phu Quoc Island can also take advantage of this 30-day visa-free policy.
Read more: Vietnam Visa Requirements
Visas granted on arrival are only given to travellers holding a pre-approval visa letter. This letter can be arranged within a few days via your local embassy or a third-party travel agent before your trip.
Vietnam also offers e-visas for stays of up to 30 days to citizens of 46 countries.
Read more: An Official Guide to e-Visas for Vietnam
You can read all about the e-Visa application process on this page. For a short version of how to apply for Vietnam’s e-Visa online, see the steps below.
Step 1: Access https://www.immigration.gov.vn and fill in required information, upload your passport data page image and photo.
Step 2: Receive your document code and pay the e-Visa fee.
Step 3: Receive your e-Visa or related information within 3 working days from the submission of application and payment.
Step 4: Use your document code to check the result and print your e-Visa.
Read more: Vietnam Visa Requirements
Yes, Vietnam can be a great destination for solo female travelers. The country is known for being relatively safe, with low levels of crime towards tourists. The people are friendly and welcoming, making it easy to connect with locals and other travelers. There is a lot to see and do in Vietnam, from the bustling cities to the beautiful beaches and stunning landscapes. Solo travelers can also join group tours or meet other travelers at hostels and guesthouses. However, it is important to take normal safety precautions, such as avoiding dark alleys and not walking alone at night. In cities especially Ho Chi Minh City, women should look out for bag snatching from motorists driving by.
Read more: Health and Safety
Vietnam is a popular travel destination, and like any other country, there are some common sicknesses that travelers may encounter. The most common illnesses are related to food and water contamination, such as diarrhea, stomach upset, and food poisoning. These can be easily prevented by drinking bottled water, avoiding ice in drinks, and being cautious about the food you eat.
Heat-related illnesses are also a concern in Vietnam, especially during the hot season. Heatstroke and dehydration can occur if proper precautions are not taken. Travelers should stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, wearing a hat and light clothing to protect from the sun, and taking breaks in the shade.
In addition, mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever and malaria can be a risk in some areas of Vietnam. Travelers should take measures to prevent mosquito bites by using insect repellent and wearing long sleeves and pants.
Overall, with proper precautions, travelers can enjoy a safe and healthy trip to Vietnam.
Read more: Health and Safety
There is a malaria risk in Vietnam, particularly in rural highland areas. Travelers are advised to take precautions such as using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and sleeping under mosquito nets to avoid being bitten by infected mosquitoes. It is also recommended to take anti-malarial medication before traveling to remote regions.
In addition to malaria, dengue fever is a common mosquito-borne disease in Vietnam. It has been increasingly prevalent throughout the country in recent years, with outbreaks occurring in urban areas as well as rural areas. The symptoms of dengue fever can be severe, including high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, and rash. Travelers are advised to take precautions against mosquito bites, such as using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing, to reduce their risk of contracting dengue fever. If you experience these symptoms during or after your trip to Vietnam, seek medical attention immediately.
Read more: Health and Safety
A round-trip taxi from Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat Airport should cost between 120,000 VND to 170,000 VND and last about from 30 to 50 minutes. An airport taxi from Hanoi’s Noi Bai Airport is fixed at 330,000 VND may take you about 45 to 60 minutes depending on traffic.
Unfortunately taxi scams are a concern for travellers in Vietnam. Use only reputable taxi companies, such as Taxi Group in Hanoi (red and blue horizontal stripes), Vinasun in Ho Chi Minh City (white taxis) and Mai Linh in both cities (green taxis). Grab, Bee and GoViet are also available for booking rides in Vietnam’s major cities if you have a Vietnamese SIM card.
Vietnam has a number of airlines to choose from for domestic travel. Some of the best airlines to travel with domestically in Vietnam include Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Jetstar Pacific, and Bamboo Airways. Vietnam Airlines is the national carrier and offers a wide range of destinations, as well as comfortable seating and excellent service. If you are on a budget, Vietjet, Jetstar and newcomer Bamboo Airways are affordable options but have a reputation for delays. Overall, travelers can find a suitable airline that fits their budget and travel needs in Vietnam.
While the Reunification Express makes stops in Hanoi, Hue, Danang, Nha Trang, Phan Thiet (Mui Ne) and Ho Chi Minh City, if you were to stay onboard the whole journey, it would technically take you 36 hours. A slow, but memorable journey, five Reunification Express services run daily (7:30PM; 10PM; 6AM; 9AM; 1:10PM) from both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
While you’ll find rental shops in almost every city, travellers should take care if planning to travel by motorbike in Vietnam. Rental prices depend on the quality of the bike. On average, most bikes go from 6 to 12 USD/day. You may be asked to deposit your passport at the motorbike company or leave a monetary deposit if renting a vehicle for more than a week. Always wear your helmet on roads.
The best time to visit Halong Bay is during the months of March to May and September to November. During these months, the weather is relatively mild with clear blue skies, making it perfect for activities like cruising, kayaking, and swimming. The temperature during these months is also comfortable, with average highs ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius.
During the summer months of June to August, Halong Bay experiences its peak tourist season. While the weather is warm, with occasional rain showers, the sheer number of tourists can make it difficult to fully enjoy the bay’s natural beauty. The winter months from December to February can be chilly, with temperatures dropping to 10 degrees Celsius or lower. However, if you are looking for a quieter and more peaceful experience, this can be a good time to visit.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Halong Bay depends on your interests and preferences. For those looking for good weather and fewer crowds, the spring and fall are ideal, while the summer months are perfect for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere and don’t mind the crowds.
If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, it’s important to consider the time of year. The months of April and May are known for their scorching temperatures, which can be difficult to handle for some travellers. Additionally, certain regions like Central Vietnam may experience storms and flooding during the later part of the rainy season. It’s worth noting that Tet, a major holiday in Vietnam, often results in many businesses closing their doors, making it challenging for time-sensitive travellers to navigate. As a helpful tip, consider visiting Vietnam during the cooler months to avoid the heat and ensure that you can fully enjoy your travels.
Sapa, in Vietnam, is a charming mountain town with plenty to offer besides trekking. One activity that is popular among visitors is visiting the town’s local markets. The bustling Sapa Market is a great place to explore and experience the local culture and buy souvenirs. Another market worth visiting is Bac Ha Market, which takes place on Sundays and is known for its vibrant atmosphere and colorful displays of local products and textiles.
For a more relaxed experience, visitors can explore the town’s surrounding villages, such as Cat Cat Village, where they can learn about traditional weaving and silver crafting techniques, or Ta Phin Village, which is famous for its medicinal baths and herbal remedies.
For a glimpse into the region’s history, visitors can visit the Sapa Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the local ethnic minority groups. Alternatively, they can explore the nearby Silver Waterfall or Fansipan Mountain, the highest peak in Indochina, for stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Overall, Sapa offers a diverse range of activities that cater to a variety of interests, making it a must-visit destination in Vietnam.
The best way to experience Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is by taking a boat tour through its stunning cave system. Visitors can explore the otherworldly formations of the Dark Cave, Paradise Cave, and Phong Nha Cave, among others. For adventure seekers, trekking through the park’s lush jungle to reach its hidden waterfalls is a must. The park also offers exciting activities such as zip-lining, kayaking, and cycling. To fully immerse yourself in the local culture, consider a homestay with the nearby ethnic minority groups. With its breathtaking scenery, rich biodiversity, and plenty of activities, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is an unforgettable destination for any nature lover.
Keep it simple. Xin chào (hello/goodbye) and cảm ơn (thank you) are a good place to start. For a selection of helpful phrases check out the link below.
Read more: Vietnamese Phrases
There is a dress code for certain attractions in Vietnam, especially when visiting religious sites, the countryside, and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. It is important to dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees. This is a sign of respect and appropriateness towards the local culture and traditions. Remember to remove your hat when entering a temple or pagoda as it is considered impolite to wear headwear in these sacred spaces. Adhering to the dress code not only shows respect for the local customs but also ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience while exploring the beautiful attractions of Vietnam.
Vietnam is home to a plethora of cooking classes, offered across major destinations in the country. These experiences range from modern cooking classes in Ho Chi Minh City to traditional ones in Hoi An, and local ones in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. However, we can suggest that you consider and begin your culinary journey at Culinary Tours. Their classes are highly recommended and offer an authentic insight into the region’s cuisine. With their expertise, you’re sure to leave feeling confident and inspired to recreate these dishes at home.
Finding vegetarian food in Vietnam can be relatively easy, especially in larger cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. Many restaurants will have vegetarian options on their menus, and there are also numerous vegetarian and vegan restaurants throughout the country. Additionally, traditional Vietnamese cuisine often includes a variety of vegetables, rice, and noodles, which can be made into vegetarian dishes. However, in smaller towns or more rural areas, it may be more challenging to find vegetarian options.