Vietnam Travel - Helpful Tips Before Heading To This Nation Of Rivers
Vietnam travel has quickly become one of the top locations on many people's bucket lists. Vietnam, an S-shaped country on the Pacific coast with "picture-perfect green mountains and ocean," has been crowned the world's top tourist destination, with an increasing number of visitors. The peculiar spirit of the collision of traditional culture with the modern lifestyle of friendly Vietnamese people can be felt here.
Author:Maya ReyesReviewer:Finn WildeNov 01, 20249K Shares568.5K Views
Vietnam travelhas quickly become one of the top locations on many people's bucket lists.
Vietnam, an S-shaped country on the Pacific coast with "picture-perfect green mountains and ocean," has been crowned the world's top tourist destination, with an increasing number of visitors.
The peculiar spirit of the collision of traditional culture with the modern lifestyle of friendly Vietnamese people can be felt here.
Vietnam Fast Facts
This article will tell you everything you need to know about Vietnam, whether you want to learn more about it before adding it to your bucket list or just want some amusing facts for your quizzing trivia.
Continue reading to learn about Vietnam's history and why you should visit.
Vietnam War
Unfortunately, one of Vietnam's most enduring legacies is the Vietnam War, a protracted conflict between North Vietnam and its communist allies China and the Soviet Union, and South Vietnam and its anti-communist allies America.
Because the Vietnam War occurred between 1955 and 1975, it is still fresh in many people's memories and is thus a delicate subject to discuss when in the nation.
Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, the War Remnants Museum, the Con Dao prisons, the Son My Memorial, and the Demilitarized Zone to discover more about the Vietnam War (DMZ).
Mausoleum Of Ho Chi Minh
The majestic President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, located in the heart of Hanoi's Ba Dinh Square, is the final resting place of Vietnamese Revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh.
The edifice, which was inspired by Lenin's Mausoleum in Moscow, includes enormous granite columns with the President's name and the inscriptions "Nc Cng Ha X Hi Ch Ngha Viet Nam Muôn Năm" / "Long live The Socialist Republic of Viet Nam" etched on the facade.
Inside, the embalmed body of President Ho Chi Minh is displayed in a glass case, which is exposed to the public every morning.
The Bay Of Halong
On a brighter note, Vietnam is also famed for its breathtakingly gorgeous natural scenery, the most famous of which is Halong Bay in the country's north.
Halong Bay is a sea inlet off the coast of northern Vietnam that is dotted with towering karst limestone peaks that protrude from the water.
This UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-see for anybody visiting Vietnam, and visitors may take a boat trip in the bay to take in the majesty of this natural masterpiece.
On a once-in-a-lifetime vacation to this bucket list destination, visitors can kayak through natural caves and grottos, relax on island beaches, and float serenely through the bay as the sun sets.
Motorbikes
If you've ever traveled to Vietnam or seen photos of central Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh, you'll know that the country is famous for its millions of motorbikes that rule the roadways!
The majority of Vietnamese people ride their bikes about the city, with nearly all adults having a motorcycle. When you combine that with the number of visitors riding mopeds, it's no surprise that Ho Chi Minh City has more motorbikes than people!
Vietnam's coastline route is also popular with motorbike riders, who come here to navigate the winding portions of road with spectacular panoramic vistas. These itineraries include mountain roads, beaches, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and much more, making for an unforgettable biking journey.
Floating Markets
If the marketplaces of Hanoi and Hoi An weren't special enough for you, the Mekong Delta is famed for having floating markets, such as the Cai Rang Floating Market in Can Tho.
These vibrant markets are where the Mekong's rural villages trade their harvests, which include anything from mangoes and durian fruit to oranges, pineapples, and coconuts.
The market opens early, with sellers putting up their boats as early as 4 a.m., so get there early to really take up the hectic local scene. These markets aren't so much about buying souvenirs as they are about seeing customers and vendors interact on the sea.
Vietnamese Coffee
If you're in Hoi An for the afternoon, stop by one of the many riverbank cafés for a traditional Vietnamese coffee.
This popular drink can be served hot or cold, and you can have it black (ca phe den) or combined with sweetened condensed milk in the traditional Vietnamese style (ca pha sua da).
The preparation of a Vietnamese coffee is an art form, and you should watch as the ground, roasted coffee beans are filtered through an aluminum cup with hot water before being dripped through to generate a rich, black brew.
Things To Know Before Going To Vietnam
Continue reading to learn some practical tips you should know before visiting Vietnam for the first time.
1. Determine Whether You Require A Visa
Even though there are certain exceptions, you should be aware that most people require a visa to enter Vietnam.
The first thing you should do is check online to determine if your home country requires its people to obtain a visa before traveling to Vietnam.
If this is required, it is simple to obtain simply going online and applying for the permit. Discuss with your agency what you can do to make the process as simple as possible.
2. Download A Map
It is recommended that you always have a map downloaded to your phone when traveling alone, with your family, or in a large group.
There are various cab options available here, as well as public transportation, but keep in mind that you will be doing a lot of walking. So, keep a map on your phone at all times to help you travelaround.
3. Not Every Season Is Suitable For Vacationing
The weather varies depending on where you stay, and summers can be extremely hot.
If you don't want to deal with extreme heat and humidity, visit the country in the spring or fall. Keep in mind that the weather might change quickly, so bring warm clothes as well.
4. Choose Modest Clothing
If you want to be respectful to the natives, pack modest clothing.
This does not imply that you must modify your style or feel warm wherever you go, but try to avoid clothing that reveals too much cleavage. It is recommended that you carry a light scarf with you to shield yourself from changing weather and to keep you modest at all times.
5. It Is Preferable To Use A Service
If this is your first time visiting the country, you should not go alone. Things might become quite convoluted, and you may even become disoriented.
You should employ a travel service if you don't want to wonder what you can do or how to go to where you want to go.
6. Don't Rely Solely On Credit Cards
There are many places in the country where you cannot use your credit or debit card to make purchases, and there are also eateries where you must pay in cash.
Remember that most souvenir shops and even small stores will refuse your card, so keep cash on hand at all times. It is best to carry little notes with you and keep larger ones in a separate location.
7. The Weather Can Shift In An Instant
When we think about the changing seasons, we normally imagine that when it's warm, the temperature won't change much, and that when it's cold, it won't get hot very soon.
The weather in Vietnam can vary dramatically in a matter of minutes, so pack layers of clothing and accessories that will keep you warm while still allowing your skin to breathe.
8. Travel Insurance Is Required
Everywhere you go, you must have travel insurance, and this country is no exception. You can obtain insurance before your trip and should not neglect this step.
Tourists have been known to have adverse responses to various foods, so make sure you are prepared in case you need to visit the hospital.
9. Keep Your Possessions Secure
Pickpocketing occurs all around the world, therefore if you are a tourist visiting a new location for the first time, you should know how to keep your valuables safe.
Don't keep everything in the same bag or pocket, and if possible, choose lightweight pouches that may be fastened to your body and placed beneath your clothing.
10. You Must Organize Your Airport Transfer
Transportation services might be complicated at times, especially if you don't travel internationally frequently.
Getting a native taxi might be difficult, and it is quite easy to swindle visitors everywhere, so make sure you plan your airport transfer ahead of time. If you utilize a service, you can have that straightened out quickly, and if you fly on your own, make sure you book things ahead of time.
11. It Is Usually Beneficial To Know A Few Basic Terms
Before visiting any new nation, it is often a good idea to learn a few basic words in the language.
Try to learn things that will help you get around easily, as well as those that will come in handy if you get lost. Even while most natives will comprehend English, it is advantageous if you know a few words.
12. Tipping Is Expected Here
Finally, when visiting a new nation, you must understand the etiquette, and you will undoubtedly frequent coffee shops and restaurants in Vietnam.
No matter where you stay, you should be aware that it is customary to tip between 10% and 20%. The tip is sometimes automatically added to your bill, and other times you must leave it on the table.
This is one of the most gorgeous spots on the planet, so bring a good camera and enough space on your phone for hundreds of photos. If you have the opportunity, you should visit Vietnam, and keep in mind that once there, you will most likely want to return.
People Also Ask
What Is Considered Rude In Vietnam?
In Vietnam, as in many other places, pointing with your index finger is considered impolite. When pointing to anything, use your pinky finger to be courteous. Pointing with an open hand, palm down, is even more formal, but it's a bit excessive in most instances.
What Should I Know Before Traveling To Vietnam?
- It is preferable to fly in Vietnam
- Be Ready for the Heat (and the Cold)
- Learn a Little Vietnamese
- It's terrifying to cross the street.
- Purchase a Vietnamese SIM Card
- It is extremely inexpensive
- Before you sit, inspect the toilet seat
- Prepare Your Visa Before Traveling to Vietnam
What Should I Avoid In Vietnam?
- Having Food Poisoning
- Water from the tap
- Being Caught Off Guard
- Taking photographs without authorization
- Being Scammed
- Scams in taxis
- Crime
Conclusion
Vietnam is now totally accessible to international tourism, with no Covid-19 restrictions. You are now free to explore and enjoy Vietnam. Also, don't forget to bring a nice camera and enough space on your phone to store hundreds of photos.
Maya Reyes
Author
Maya Reyes’s wanderlust was sparked in the temples of Luang Prabang, where the scent of lemongrass and the chants of monks revealed the transformative power of travel.
Since then, her journey has been defined by cultural immersion and authentic connections. From learning batik in Indonesia to sharing meals with nomadic families in Mongolia, Maya seeks experiences that highlight the human stories behind each destination.
Travel for her is a way to weave her narrative into the world’s cultural tapestry, creating bridges across diverse ways of life. Maya has traveled to 15 countries and shares her insights through writing and storytelling.
Finn Wilde
Reviewer
For Finn Wilde, the wilderness is more than just a destination - it’s a way of life. Over the past decade, he has led multiple expeditions in some of the world’s most remote regions, from the icy fjords of Greenland to the rugged trails of Patagonia.
Finn emphasizes sustainability in all of his adventures, helping participants connect with nature while promoting responsible exploration. His expeditions inspire individuals to explore the great outdoors while fostering a deep respect for the environment.
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