Vietnam Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
🇻🇳 Planning & Logistics
1. Do I need a visa for Vietnam? Answer: Most nationalities require a visa. The easiest method is applying online for an E-Visa through the official government portal, which is typically valid for 90 days. Always double-check your specific country’s requirements.
2. What is the best time to visit Vietnam? Answer: Vietnam is a long country, so the best time varies by region.
North (Hanoi, Ha Long Bay): October to April (cooler, dry).
Central (Hoi An, Da Nang): February to May (warm, dry).
South (HCMC, Mekong Delta): November to April (dry season).
3. What is the easiest way to travel between major cities? Answer: For long distances, domestic flights are fastest. For scenic and comfortable overnight travel, the sleeper train (Reunification Express) is highly recommended between places like Hanoi and Hue/Da Nang. Overnight sleeper buses are the cheapest but least comfortable option.
4. How much cash (VND) should I carry daily? Answer: Around 500,000 VND to 1,000,000 VND ($20-$40 USD) per person per day is a good reserve for street food, coffee, short taxi rides, and market purchases. Large expenses (hotels, tours) can usually be paid by card.
5. Should I exchange money at the airport? Answer: Only exchange a small amount at the airport for immediate transport. You will get better rates at gold shops or official currency exchanges in city centers (e.g., in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or HCMC’s District 1).
6. What are the best apps to download before arrival? Answer: Grab (essential for ride-hailing and food delivery), Google Maps (download offline maps), and Google Translate (the camera feature is invaluable for menus).
7. Is a local SIM card necessary? Answer: Highly recommended. Data is cheap and reliable. Look for providers like Viettel or Vinaphone. An eSIM is often the most convenient option to set up before you arrive.
🛵 Transportation & Safety
8. How do I safely cross the road in busy cities? Answer: Walk slowly and predictably. Do not stop suddenly or run. Motorbikes will anticipate your movement and flow around you; stopping is more dangerous than moving steadily.
9. Are taxis safe, and which companies should I use? Answer: They are generally safe, but you should always use the Grab app for fixed, transparent pricing. If using a street taxi, only use reputable brands like Vinasun (white) or Mai Linh (green).
10. Should I rent a motorbike? Answer: Only if you are an experienced rider and possess the appropriate International Driving Permit (IDP) and license. Traffic is intense, and your travel insurance may be void without the proper documentation.
11. Is phone snatching a concern in Ho Chi Minh City? Answer: Yes, it is a significant risk, particularly from passing motorbikes. Do not use your phone while walking near the street, especially near intersections, and keep it secured (e.g., in a zipped pocket or cross-body bag).
12. Is Vietnam safe for solo female travelers? Answer: Yes, overwhelmingly so. Use common sense, stay vigilant against minor theft, and book reputable transportation, but violent crime against tourists is very rare.
🍲 Food & Drink
13. Is the street food safe to eat? Answer: Yes, the vast majority is safe and delicious. Look for stalls with high turnover (busy with locals) and where the food is cooked fresh in front of you. Boiling water in soup stalls ensures cleanliness.
14. Can I drink the tap water? Answer: No, never. Always drink bottled water. Use bottled water even for brushing your teeth to be extra cautious.
15. Are ice cubes safe in drinks? Answer: Yes, in major cities and tourist spots. Ice is typically commercially manufactured in factories (look for the clear, cylindrical, holed ice) and is safe to consume.
16. What are the absolute must-try dishes? Answer: Phở (Noodle Soup), Bánh Mì (Vietnamese Sandwich), Bún Chả (Grilled Pork with Noodles, especially in Hanoi), and Gỏi Cuốn (Fresh Spring Rolls).
17. What is Vietnamese iced coffee like? Answer: Cà Phê Sữa Đá is an incredibly strong, rich dark roast coffee brewed with a phin filter and mixed with sweet condensed milk, then served over ice. It is a mandatory experience.
18. Is it easy to find vegetarian/vegan food? Answer: Yes, very easy. Look for signs that say Cơm Chay (vegetarian rice/meal). Most street stalls and restaurants can also adapt dishes.
🏛️ Destinations & Activities
19. Is Ha Long Bay worth the cost and crowds? Answer: Yes, it’s a UNESCO essential, but to maximize the experience, book a quality 2-day/1-night cruise. For fewer crowds, consider a cruise in the adjacent Lan Ha Bay.
20. What is a “Ha Long Bay on Land”? Answer: This refers to Ninh Binh, specifically the area around Tam Coc and Trang An, known for spectacular karst formations rising from rice paddies, best explored by rowboat.
21. Should I stay in Da Nang or Hoi An? Answer: Hoi An is better for ambiance, history, and walking, but Da Nang has better beaches, logistics (airport), and is more modern. Many travelers split their time or base themselves in Da Nang for better hotel options.
22. How many days should I allocate to Hanoi? Answer: 3 days is a good amount for the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and key museums, plus extra time for day trips to Ha Long Bay or Ninh Binh.
23. Is the Ha Giang Loop worth the long journey? Answer: Absolutely, if you love mountains and adventure. It is often cited as the most beautiful road trip in Southeast Asia. Book an “Easy Rider” (professional driver) if you are not very experienced on a motorbike.
24. What are the main sights near Ho Chi Minh City? Answer: The Cu Chi Tunnels (for wartime history) and a day trip to the Mekong Delta (for river life and local markets) are the two most popular excursions.
25. Are the beaches in Vietnam worth visiting? Answer: Yes. Top spots include Phú Quốc (island getaway), Nha Trang (busy resort town), and the beaches near Da Nang/Hoi An (My Khe Beach, An Bang Beach).
🛍️ Practical & Cultural
26. Is tipping customary in Vietnam? Answer: It is not mandatory, but it is appreciated, especially in tourist areas. Tipping guides, drivers, spa staff, and servers in high-end restaurants is becoming common practice. You do not need to tip street vendors.
27. Do I need to bargain for prices? Answer: Yes, for anything sold in local markets, clothing, souvenirs, or with street vendors. Do not bargain in supermarkets, fixed-price shops, or restaurants. A good starting point is about 50-70% of the initial price offered to a tourist.
28. What should I wear when visiting temples or pagodas? Answer: Dress respectfully: shoulders and knees should be covered. Many sites will offer cover-ups for rent if you arrive in shorts or tank tops.
29. What is the standard attire for daily travel? Answer: Lightweight, breathable, modest clothing is best due to the heat and humidity. Locals tend to dress conservatively, so avoid overly revealing outfits.
30. How should I politely decline a street vendor or tout? Answer: A simple, polite “No, thank you” (or “Không, cám ơn”) while continuing to walk is the most effective way. Avoid engaging in long conversations if you don’t intend to buy.