• Hanoi: Vietnam's capital city with a rich history, charming Old Quarter, and iconic attractions like Hoan Kiem Lake and the Temple of Literature.
• Halong Bay: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters, best explored on a cruise.
• Hoi An: A picturesque ancient town with well-preserved architecture, lantern-lit streets, and a vibrant riverside market.
• Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): A bustling metropolis with French colonial architecture, historic sites like the War Remnants Museum, and vibrant markets like Ben Thanh Market.
• Sapa: Located in the northern mountains, Sapa offers breathtaking landscapes, terraced rice fields, and opportunities for trekking and interacting with ethnic minorities.
• Hue: Former imperial capital with a citadel, royal tombs, and pagodas showcasing Vietnam's rich history.

• Spring (February to April): Mild temperatures and low rainfall make it an excellent time to explore most regions.
• Autumn (August to October): Pleasant weather and fewer tourists, particularly in central and northern Vietnam.
• Note: Vietnam experiences regional variations in climate, so check weather conditions for specific destinations.

• Check the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your country for the latest visa requirements.
• Some nationalities are eligible for visa exemptions or visa on arrival (with pre-arranged approval).
• You can simply apply online via this website: https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/en_US/web/guest/khai-thi-thuc-dien-tu/cap-thi-thuc-dien-tu

Online visa fee is at $25USD and you do not need to pay stamping fee at Vietnam airport. Please contact Vietnam Travel & Cruise for any visa service or guidance

• Tet Festival (Lunar New Year): Celebrated in late January or early February, this is the most significant cultural event with family gatherings, temple visits, and colorful decorations.
• Mid-Autumn Festival: Celebrated in September, with lantern processions and mooncakes.

• Pho: Vietnam's famous noodle soup, typically made with beef or chicken, rice noodles, and aromatic herbs.
• Banh Mi: A delicious Vietnamese sandwich filled with various ingredients like grilled meats, pate, vegetables, and herbs.
• Spring Rolls: Fresh or fried rolls filled with shrimp, pork, vermicelli, and vegetables, often served with peanut dipping sauce.

• Remove shoes when entering homes, temples, and some businesses.
• Address elders with respect, using appropriate titles (e.g., "anh" for older brother, "chi" for older sister).

• Phu Quoc: Vietnam's largest island with stunning beaches and diverse marine life.
• Nha Trang: Known for its long sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and offshore islands.
• Da Nang: A coastal city with beautiful beaches and nearby attractions like the Marble Mountains and Hoi An.

• Ha Giang: Located in the far north, Ha Giang offers spectacular mountain landscapes and the famous Dong Van Karst Plateau.
• Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park: A UNESCO-listed park with incredible caves and karst formations, including the world's largest cave, Son Doong.
• Con Dao Islands: A remote and pristine archipelago with beautiful beaches, ideal for nature lovers and relaxation.

• Vietnam is generally safe for solo travellers, but exercise usual precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and being cautious with your belongings in crowded places.

• Stay in homestays to immerse yourself in the daily life of locals, particularly in rural areas.
• Take part in cooking classes to learn about Vietnamese cuisine and its regional variations.
• Visit local markets and strike up conversations with vendors to experience the vibrant atmosphere and learn about daily life.

• Budget Travel: Hostels and guesthouses are available in most tourist areas, offering affordable options.
• Mid-Range Travel: Hotels and boutique accommodations provide comfortable stays at reasonable prices.
• Luxury Travel: High-end resorts and luxury hotels can be found in popular tourist destinations.

• Check with a travel clinic or healthcare provider for recommended vaccinations for Vietnam.
• Drink bottled or boiled water and avoid consuming raw or undercooked food to prevent foodborne illnesses.

• Ho Chi minh City: Cu Chi tunnels, independence Palace, War museum.
• Hoian: Hoian old quarter, My Son sanctuary, Marble Mountain, Ba Na hill with Golden Bridge
• Hue: Hue citadel, Khai Dinh tomb, Tu Duc tomb, Minh Mang tomb, Thien Mu pagoda
• Hanoi: Ho Chi Minh mausoleum and museum, Temple of literature, Vietnam museum of ethnology, Hoa Lo prison, Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
• Quang Ninh: Ha Long bay

• Participate in eco-tours that promote responsible tourism and support local communities.
• Choose sustainable activities and accommodations that prioritize environmental conservation.

• Explore local markets like Ben Thanh Market (Ho Chi Minh City) and Dong Xuan Market (Hanoi) for souvenirs, clothing, and handicrafts.
• Support local artisans by purchasing handmade products from traditional villages.

• Use reputable taxi companies like Vinasun or Mai Linh in cities and opt for Grab (ride-hailing app) for convenience.
• When crossing busy streets, walk at a steady pace, and drivers will adjust their speed accordingly.

• Ha Long Bay: Explore the karst landscapes and limestone caves on a cruise.
• Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park: Venture into the stunning cave systems and enjoy trekking and kayaking.
• Sapa: Embark on a trekking adventure to witness the terraced rice fields and meet ethnic minority communities.

• Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or religious sites.
• Avoid pointing at people with your feet, as it's considered impolite.
• Always ask for permission before taking photos of locals, especially in rural areas.

Always have multiple sources of payment – Cash Card, Credit Card & Cash ATMs are generally everywhere but they don’t always accept your card and only moderate amounts can be withdrawn per transaction and you will be charged a fee by the ATM and your own bank. Refer specific cash requirements under each country heading.

Vietnam

• Take: Any currency – undamaged notes
• Local money: Dong (VND)
• ATMs: Everywhere – dispensing VND
• Exchange: Gold shops give the best rates. Avoid money exchangers.
• Shopping: VND

Cambodia

• Take: USD – in pristine condition. Old notes will be rejected.
• Local money: Riel (KHR)
• ATMs: Plenty in big cities and towns dispensing USD
• Exchange: Not necessary to exchange because USD is always used
• Shopping: USD

Laos

• Bring: USD
• Local money: Kip (LAK)
• ATMs: Plenty in big towns dispensing LAK
• Exchange: Money changers have the best rates
• Shopping: Kip is preferred but you can use Thai Baht and USD