Vietnam Travel Tips: Be Prepared for Culture Shock!

If you’re considering a trip to Vietnam and haven’t experienced Southeast Asia before, we provide essential tips. However, brace yourself for a culture shock as the traffic is chaotic, English isn’t widely spoken, the cuisine may differ from what you’re accustomed to, and cleanliness standards vary significantly.

Verify Your Passport

Ensure that your passport is valid before traveling internationally, following the “6-month-rule.”

This rule states that your passport should not expire within six months of your arrival date. If your passport is invalid, you may be denied boarding on your flight.

Therefore, carefully check your passport and renew it if necessary.

Make Advance Arrangements for Your Vietnam Visa

Visitors from countries outside Southeast Asia must obtain a visa or preapproval letter before traveling to Vietnam.

Procedure for Obtaining a 30-Day Single-Entry E-Visa

To acquire a 30-day, single-entry e-visa, please follow these steps:

1. Visit the link here and make the necessary payment.
2. Email additional information to sales@visavietnamservice.org, including:
   • A colored copy of your passport’s full cover page.
   • A passport-sized photo (2×3 cm, 3×4 cm, or 5×5 cm) against a white background without glasses.
   • The address of your stay in Vietnam or your hotel address.

Once received, we will process your visa and send it to you via email. Print out the e-visa and present it at the airline check-in counter and the Immigration checkpoint upon arrival in Vietnam. This way, you won’t have to wait for a visa or pay the visa stamping fee again.

We Offer Four E-Visa Processing Services:

• Normal Service: Guaranteed delivery of the approval letter within 2-3 working days via email during Immigration Department working hours. Applications received after 14:30 PM on weekdays or during weekends and holidays will be processed on the next business day. Additional stamping fee required.
• Urgent Service (1-2 working days): Ideal for urgent visa requirements. Approval letters or e-visas will be sent within 1-2 working days for a one-month duration. Applications received after 14:30 PM on weekdays or during weekends and holidays will be processed on the next business day. Additional charges range from $18 to $69 USD per person, plus stamping fee.
• Emergency Service (4-8 working hours): Expedited processing within 4-8 working hours, based on Immigration Department regulations. Additional charges range from $49 to $237 USD per person. Please contact our hotline (+84) 968.18.77.18 to confirm receipt and initiate immediate processing. Extra visa stamping fees apply. Note that this service is available only from Monday to Friday in the morning until 14:30, depending on urgency.

Immediate Service Case for Time Off, Saturdays, Sundays, or Holidays

Choose this option if you plan to travel on weekends, holidays, or during your time off. However, please note that there will be additional charges ranging from $270 to $455 per person, which include airport fast track fees and visa stamping fees (flight details are required). To proceed immediately, contact our hotline at (+84) 968.18.77.18 to confirm your flight details and ensure that your application has been received and acknowledged. We will send you a guarantee letter within approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour after completing your payment. Our associate will obtain the visa for you at the airport before your arrival.

Please be aware that e-visas are only available for citizens of 80 countries listed by Vietnam Immigration. For more information and to check the list, visit this link.

Steps to Obtain a 30-day or 90-day Visa on Arrival

1. Find an online service such as https://visavietnamservice.org/apply-vietnam-visa-form or explore other available options.

2. Complete the visa application form.

3. Pay the applicable fee.

4. Processing time varies based on nationality (details provided on our website). We will process your application and send the approval visa letter to your email.

5. Print the approval letter and keep it with you for airline check-in.

6. If you don’t have passport photos, get them taken beforehand. Failure to do so may result in additional charges upon arrival.

7. Prepare your approval letter, passport photos, and cash. Keep them in your carry-on or hand luggage.

8. Upon arrival at the airport, you will need to pay a stamping fee. The fee is $25 for a single-entry visa or $50 to $135 for multiple-entry visas, depending on the duration. Payment must be made in USD or VND (credit cards may not be accepted, and there are no ATMs within the customs area). Please note that fees are subject to change with prior notice.

It is advisable to purchase travel insurance.

Heading: Traveling Tips for Vietnam

Importance of Travel Insurance

It is crucial to have travel insurance whenever you travel, whether it’s in Vietnam or any other destination. Unexpected situations can arise during your trip, and having travel insurance ensures you are protected.

Benefits of Travel Insurance

When you have travel insurance, you’ll have coverage in case anything goes wrong. Your travel insurance will cater to various needs such as sightseeing, city breaks, vacations, or adventure travel.

Ideal Time to Visit Vietnam

July and August are the peak season months in Vietnam, characterized by higher prices, hot and humid weather with occasional rain showers. For those visiting Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, consider December to March as a great time, offering a chance to escape winter in Europe and North America. While Hanoi may be cold, Ho Chi Minh City will be sunny and moderately warm. The low season is from April to June and September to November, providing pleasant weather and lower prices throughout Vietnam.

Travel Companions

Are you traveling with a partner, friends, family, or going solo in Vietnam? Depending on your situation:

• Solo travelers can consider renting a motorbike for a North-South or vice versa trip, or join tours.
• Traveling by bus or train is an excellent option when accompanied by friends or family.

Financial Preparation

Cash is widely accepted in Vietnam, and the local currency is the Vietnam Dong (VND). You can exchange currency at banks or jewelry shops. The amount of money required for your Vietnam trip depends on your budget and travel style. ATMs and banks are accessible in major cities, allowing you to withdraw cash and exchange it for Vietnamese Dong.

Exploring Vietnam: A Guide to Getting Around

Vietnam, a vast and captivating country, offers a plethora of remarkable destinations and exciting activities. To fully experience its beauty, we recommend allocating at least a month to explore various regions. Begin with Northern Vietnam, encompassing Hanoi, Sapa, Ninh Binh, and Halong Bay; then venture into Central Vietnam, discovering Hue, Danang, and Hoi An; finally, immerse yourself in Southern Vietnam, including Saigon, Dalat, Mui Ne, the Mekong Delta, and Phu Quoc.

Given Vietnam’s considerable size and length, traveling from the northernmost point to the southernmost point can be challenging. The most convenient method of transportation between major cities like Saigon, Da Nang, and Hanoi is often by plane.

VietJet, a budget airline, offers numerous low-cost flights across Vietnam. However, it’s important to note that their flights are frequently subject to delays, sometimes lasting several hours. Additionally, VietJet charges a fee for checked baggage, which can become costly if you have multiple bags.

Vietnam Airlines, though slightly more expensive, provides the advantage of including two checked bags in their fares and maintaining better punctuality.

If you require assistance with booking air tickets or arranging tours, feel free to visit our website at https://transoceantourist.com/ or https://transoceanservice.com/. Our team is dedicated to supporting you and providing helpful advice.

The Top Attractions in Vietnam

1. Hanoi: A Vibrant Capital City

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam and second-largest city, serves as a gateway to stunning destinations like Sapa, Halong Bay, and Ninh Binh. Despite its size, Hanoi retains a charming atmosphere with Hoàn Kiếm Lake at the heart of the Old Quarter, offering a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls. The city boasts parks, local markets, and various tourist attractions.

2. Sapa: Majestic Landscapes and Minority Culture

Situated among lofty hills, Sapa is home to several minority groups engaged in farming and tourism. Its elevated location provides breathtaking views of the Muong Hoa Valley adorned with expansive rice terraces. While trekking through remote villages is a popular activity here, Sapa offers more than meets the eye. Visitors can take a cable car ride up Fansipan Mountain, the highest peak in the Indochinese Peninsula, or embark on a self-guided downhill trek to the Cat Cat tourist village before taking a motorbike taxi back up.

3. Halong Bay: A Scenic Wonder

Halong Bay, known for its breathtaking beauty, ranks high on the list of must-visit places in Vietnam. Cruising through the limestone cliffs on a liveaboard boat offers an unforgettable experience that captivates travelers.

4. Ninh Binh: Tranquility Amidst Natural Splendor

Located just two hours south of Hanoi, Ninh Binh showcases lush green rice paddies set against towering limestone cliffs. Life moves at a slower pace here, creating a friendly and tranquil atmosphere that promotes relaxation, happiness, and inner peace.

5. Phong Nha

Renting a motorbike in Ninh Binh is highly recommended for convenient transportation. Explore the breathtaking Mua Caves on a hike and enjoy picturesque views from a slow boat ride. The surrounding countryside of Ninh Binh is also dotted with charming temples and pagodas.

Phong Nha: One of Vietnam’s most unique destinations is the Phong Nha region, renowned for its impressive national park – Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to Asia’s oldest karst mountains and numerous extensive cave systems, including popular ones like Phong Nha Cave, Paradise Cave, and Black Cave. Exploring these caves independently is possible without hiring a tour guide. Adventurous cave enthusiasts should include Phong Nha in their Vietnam itinerary!

6. Hue

History enthusiasts will be captivated by Hue, known as the Imperial City. It served as the seat of Nguyễn Dynasty emperors from 1802 to 1945, and visiting its beautiful walled complex offers a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s rich history.

7. Da Nang

Da Nang not only serves as the southern gateway to the stunning Hai Van Pass drive but also offers various attractions that make it worth spending a few days. Explore the Marble Mountains, witness the dragon bridge breathing fire, indulge in delicious cuisine, or simply relax on the beach. This bustling city is adorned with luxurious beachfront resorts and has gained popularity with tourists, thanks to the iconic Golden Bridge supported by two hands.

8. Hoi An

During your trip, make sure to visit Hoi An, a delightful tourist town in central Vietnam. Its pedestrian-friendly downtown area is famous for its charming yellow French colonial-style buildings lining the streets.

9. Quy Nhon

Quy Nhon (Quy Nhon or Qui Nhon in Vietnamese) is a hidden gem in Central Vietnam, located in Binh Dinh province. It offers a tranquil coastal city experience with beaches, delicious seafood, scenic spots, historical landmarks, and minimal tourist crowds. With its charming atmosphere and few visitors, it’s worth exploring before it becomes too popular.

10. Nha Trang

Nha Trang is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant aquatic life, and lively nightlife. Beyond the tourist hotspots, you can discover waterfalls, pagodas, countryside lanes, and more beautiful beaches that invite you to dive in. Adding Nha Trang to your Vietnam itinerary is a must to fully experience the country’s beauty.

11. Da Lat

Located in the central highlands of South Vietnam, Da Lat is an ideal destination for cooler temperatures and outdoor activities. The city offers a refreshing atmosphere and boasts picturesque lakes, waterfalls, and gardens. Despite the colder weather compared to other parts of Southern Vietnam, Da Lat provides ample opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors.

12. Mui Ne

Mui Ne is a small beach town highly popular among windsurfers and kiteboarders due to its perfect windy conditions and sandy beach break. Even if water sports aren’t your thing, Mui Ne has a pristine sandy beach and nearby sand dunes to explore. Witness breathtaking sunrises, go on lovely hikes through streams, and discover ancient ruins in this captivating destination.

13. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Saigon, officially known as Ho Chi Minh City, is a vibrant urban metropolis located in the southern region of Vietnam. It offers a diverse culinary scene and is home to numerous tourist attractions such as the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum. For a fulfilling experience in Saigon, make sure to indulge in its coffee culture, local cuisine, shopping, and enjoy the city’s highlights within a few days.

14. The Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta, situated in southern Vietnam and spanning over 15,000 square miles, is an agricultural hub characterized by its extensive river network. This fertile area serves as a major source of fruits and vegetables for markets across Vietnam. Visitors are captivated by the iconic floating markets where locals engage in the trade of fresh produce.

15. Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc is a beautiful island located off the southern coast of Vietnam. It boasts pristine white sandy beaches, excellent opportunities for diving and snorkeling, delectable seafood options, and various enjoyable activities. Exploring the island on a rented motorbike allows you to discover its temples, savor an iced coffee by the beach, and make the most of your time in this idyllic destination.

Visit www.visaonlinevietnam.com for more information.