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Vietnam
Country info
Square area:
331,210 km2
Population:
96 million
Capital:
Hanoi
Currency:
Vietnamese dong (VND)
Language:
Vietnamese
Religion:
70% folk, or irreligious
Political:
Socialist republic
English:
Secondary in school
Safety level
Vietnam is an extremely safe country to travel in. The police keep a pretty tight grip on the social order. Scams and hassles do exist, particularly in Hanoi. The traffic tends to be quite anarchic.
Food is everywhere in Vietnam: on markets, sidewalks, street carts, rustic food joints, on women's heads. Tasting the street food is biting into the Vietnamese culture, incredibly diverse from north to south. In Sa Pa, it's the thang co – horse meat soup cooked with over 20 different herbs. In Hanoi, the bun cha – pork meatballs served over noodles. In Hoi An, cao lau noodles with braised spiced pork. And in Ho Chi Minh, the sweet and sour canh chua soup.
But nowadays, it’s also a fast-food joint here and there. Or two. One of the world’s fastest globalizing economies, Vietnam is changing rapidly. And while global standards might bring improvement to food safety and hygiene, they might also globalize the authentic in it.
- See how the French and Chinese touches blend together in the cities like Hanoi, Hue, and Ho Chi Minh.
- Unwind on a junk boat cruise around Halong Bay, a maze of towering rocks topped with patches of rainforest.
- Join a veteran-guided tour around the DMZ (demilitarized zone) and visit Cu Chi tunnels in Ho Chi Minh for insights into the „American War“.
- Visit a Cao Dai temple near Ho Chi Minh, home to Vietnam’s authentic and mysterious religion.
- Meet the H’mong people trekking amid rice patties in the northern Muong Hoa Valley.
THE
STREETS
OF
VIETNAM
Perfect For
Culture
Photography
Food
Markets
Itinerary ideas
DAY 1
Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by your chauffeur for a transfer to your hotel. Settle in and relax for a while. Afterwards, a visit to the Wartime Tunnels in Cu Chi will follow.
DAY 2
Head on a guided tour of Saigon. In the afternoon, visit the Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum as an introduction to Saigon's turbulent history. In the evening, enjoy a private xeom street food tour.
DAY 3
Fly off to Da Nang and settle in your hotel. After some time at leisure, head on a walking tour of Hoi An Old Town with a visit to the Japanese Covered Bridge, Assembly Hall of Chinese, Tan Ky, and the colorful local market.
DAY 4
After breakfast, enjoy cycling through the flat country lanes. In Tra Que, a charming village outside Hoi An, learn about vegetable growing and planting which will be followed by an herbal foot massage and brief cooking class.
DAY 5
A transfer from Hoi An to Hue with an en-route stops to Danang, the stone-carving village of Non Nuoc, and the Marble Mountain. In the evening, enjoy an exceptional Vietnamese dinner with a royal local couple.
DAY 6
Enjoy a walking tour of Hue, followed by a visit to a private gallery and workshop with Mr. Do. Round off the today’s adventure with a visit to the Thien Mu Pagoda and an amazing panoramic cruise back to Hue.
DAY 7
Fly off to Hanoi and settle in your hotel. In the evening, enjoy a walking and foodie tour that will introduce you to the finest of Hanoi's local cuisine - beef spring rolls pho cuon, hot pot soup lau, and other.
DAY 8
Today, take in the main highlights and sights of the city including the Old Quarter, Mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh gardens, and UNESCO World Heritage Site - Thang Long Imperial Citadel.
DAY 9
A morning transfer to Halong's port to begin your cruise. On your first day, explore the well-hidden Thien Canh Son cave and spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing on a white sandy beach on Hon Co Island.
DAY 10
After visiting Vung Vieng fishing village, enjoy lunch while cruising toward the port. After disembarkation, you will be transferred to Yen Duc in the province of Dong Trieu to enjoy a water puppet show. A transfer to the airport will follow.
Get acquainted with Vietnamese culture and history through this discovery tour which includes visits to war-related sites, private guided tours of major cities, and tasting delicious local food!
DAY 1
Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by your chauffeur for a transfer to your hotel. Settle in and relax for a while. A private tour of the Wartime Tunnels in Cu Chi will follow.
DAY 2
Head on a guided tour of Saigon. In the afternoon, visit the Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum as an introduction to Saigon's turbulent history. In the evening, enjoy a private back-of-the-bike street food tasting.
DAY 3
A scenic speedboat trip to Mekong Delta where, as a part of a small group tour, you will visit the Cao Dai Temple river market, local workshops, a pagoda, and other historical sites along the way.
DAY 4
Fly off to Da Nang and settle in your hotel. After some time at leisure, head on a walking tour of Hoi An Old Town with a visit to the Japanese Covered Bridge, Assembly Hall of Chinese, Tan Ky, and the colorful local market.
DAY 5
A morning visit to the central market for an introduction to Vietnamese cuisine. This will be followed by a cooking class at a unique dining venue where you will be able to participate and admire the diverse Vietnamese flavors.
DAY 6
A domestic flight to Hanoi Noi Bai followed by some time at leisure at the hotel. Enjoy the afternoon tour of the Hidden Houses - an introduction to the 1930's architecture of Hanoi and the wealthy life of people of this period.
DAY 7
Begin your cruise along the Halong Bay. Enjoy a day of swimming in turquoise water followed by a traditional lunch. The evening is reserved for traditional Bao Dai dress-up and photoshoot with the captain and manager of the boat.
DAY 8
Start your day with a refreshing hike and mesmerizing panoramic view. After checking out, there will be a transfer to the airport for a domestic flight to Hanoi. In the evening, enjoy a street food tour of Hanoi.
DAY 9
Enjoy a full-day private tour of Hanoi. Visit the Old Quarter for an insight into the dynamic local way of life. Stroll through the surrounding gardens of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, visit the One-pillar Pagoda, and other sites.
DAY 10
Enjoy your last morning in Vietnam at leisure. Check out after breakfast and meet your chauffeur for a transfer to the airport for your outbound flight.
Visiting major sites with a special touch; explore Vietnam's cities through unique experiences such as a cruise along the Halong Bay, a cooking class, and a panoramic hike, among other.
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What to Expect
From chain hotels to modest “mom na pop” properties, Vietnam offers everything. We always suggest a good mix of traditional and luxury properties on perfect locations for exploring the exciting street culture and food in all areas.
Outside Hanoi Metropole Hotel
• Great selection of hotels throughout the country
• Luxury, colonial style "Metropole Hotel" in Hanoi is one of the most luxurious choices
• Wide selection of small, boutique properties throughout
• Luxury, colonial style "Metropole Hotel" in Hanoi is one of the most luxurious choices
• Wide selection of small, boutique properties throughout
When it comes to weather, the best time to visit Vietnam definitely depends on the region. Vietnam’s climate is tropical, influenced by summer and winter monsoon so the weather tends to be highly variable. In general, it is hot and humid in all Vietnam, the south having pleasant temperatures while mountainous north can get very cold.
The beaches of Da Nang
• December through March is the best time to visit weather-wise
• September through March is when Vietnam gets most visitors
• The best time to visit the beaches of Vietnam is from May to August
• Visit in time of tet in February to celebrate Vietnamese New Year
• Hoi An Lantern festival is Vietnam's most famous festival
• September through March is when Vietnam gets most visitors
• The best time to visit the beaches of Vietnam is from May to August
• Visit in time of tet in February to celebrate Vietnamese New Year
• Hoi An Lantern festival is Vietnam's most famous festival
WiFi connection is enabled in the majority of Vietnam coffee shops and restaurants as well as hotels and guesthouses. In general, the internet is available throughout the country, with the exception of some remote places, and it is strictly monitored. Purchasing a local SIM card for good cellphone service and internet on the go is the best option.
Vietnam SIM card
• Country code: +84
• Roaming is provided by the majority of international operators (please check with your local supplier)
• For internet access via cellphone, get a local SIM card
• Plug types are A (USA), C and F (European); standard voltage is 220V and it operates on 50Hz
Vietnamese cuisine follows a simple rule - the fresher, the better. All ingredients are tasteful and smartly combined, herbs and vegetables being an essential part of the cuisine. There are plenty of dishes that vary depending on the region, but the foundation always seems to be rice or noodles accompanied by meat or some sort of seafood and broth.
Line for the best Banh Mi in Saigon
• Fresh fruit and vegetables offer daily
• Avoid consuming raw food such as meat in high heats
• Bahn mi, a baguette sandwich filled with meat and vegetables, and bun cha, barbecued pork served with a type of broth are some of local specialties
• Vietnamese desserts are quite unique!
• Tipping is not customary
Vietnam is a heaven for avid shoppers of local products. Each town has at least one market offering all sorts of food, spices, handcrafts and fabrics. Hanoi and Ho Chin Minh are growing in modern malls also but their Night Markets are what will amaze you. If you wish to come back home with a really unique item choose silk or any type of market fabric and leave it to tailor. Within 24h you will have best tailor-made souvenir ever.
Typical market in Saigon
• nón lá or conical hat is most recognizable Vietnam souvenir
• Leather goods in Hoi An and lacquerware on Ben Thanh market in Ho Chin Minh
• Silk robes, straw bags, colorful lanterns and embroidered wall hangings are all unique for Vietnam
• Bargaining is common on markets but if you see a fixed price on item don't expect a discount
Vietnam is a tradition-oriented society that worships their ancestors and celebrates death days. In terms of clothing, some of them still dress traditionally so you may encounter both men and women wearing ao dai, a silk tunic worn over pants. Make sure you are appropriately dressed when visiting temples and pagodas. Vietnamese prefer to go barefoot in the high heat and humidity.
At Lady Buddha Temple
• Vietnamese cherish their traditions and ancestors
• Dress code for pagodas is strict and involves wearing clothes that cover your knees and elbow-length shirts; you may borrow longyi, a traditional, sarong-style garment, to enter pagoda, while shoes are left at the entrance
• Alcohol consummation is legal
There are rarely any robberies, thefts and violence in Vietnam. In general, it is a safe country to travel in, but being extra cautious in bigger cities, especially the capital of Hanoi, is advised. Streets of big cities are chaotic and full of scooters so be extra careful when crossing.
Taking a nap on the street
• It is a very safe country to travel in
• Proper medical care is not available in remote areas
• Exercise caution in traffic
• Avoid consumption od raw food
• Tap water is not safe to drink
Two main airports in Vietnam are in Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi. Arrival into the country is possible by train from China, boat from Thailand or by land in which case we advise our private chauffeur service. Once in the bigger city taxi is the best option or local way tuktuk, a three-wheel vehicle for public transport. The roads may be in poor condition during bad weather.
Traffic in Hanoi
• Driving side: right
• The main airport is Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City
• Travel by plane between bigger cities
• Travel by express train on long distances as there are many multi-city routes available
• During holidays and festivals, it can get very crowded
What to pack
Vietnam's climate is mostly tropical and characterized by high humidity so here are some suggestions what to wear. Don't forget your photo gear as the streets and markets of Vietnam offer a great number of photography opportunities. The suggested reading and guide books are here to give you the best insight before and during your trip.
In The Media
10 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam
Vietnam - a land of striking landscapes
Vietnam's Animal Market Foodie Tour
Extreme Food Tour in the Mekong Delta!
Capital of Vietnam - Hanoi
"City of Peace" proclaimed by UNESCO
Interesting Facts About Vietnam
Cities, economy, food and People of Vietnam
Illegal Jungel Food in Vietnam
Catching and Cooking Asia's Most Freaky Foods!
The Traditions in Vietnam
Exploring Ho Chi Minh City and Southeast Asia.
Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Ho Chi Minh
Beaches, History, Food & Nature
Sơn Tùng M-TP - Nơi Này Có Anh
Popular Vietnamese Music
Vietnamese for Beginners
Learn Some Useful Phrases
Best to combine with
Forever linked by the Mekong River! All the countries of former Indochina are great and easy to combine.
CAMBODIA
One of the easiest and most popular combinations. Cambodia compliments Vietnam perfectly.
LAOS
Visit Laos to unveil the thriving Buddhist culture and fabulous remote villages.
MYANMAR
Still one of the most authentic countries of South East Asia.
Quirks for the Curious
Tailored Clothing
One of the coolest things one can get in Vietnam is definitely a piece of tailored clothing. Numerous local tailors offer all sorts of clothing: from simple summer shirts to three-piece suits. Local Hanoi tailors are known for exceptional and fast work. Hoi An is one of the most popular places to get your clothes tailored at more than 300 tailors and leather-workers.
One of the coolest things one can get in Vietnam is definitely a piece of tailored clothing. Numerous local tailors offer all sorts of clothing: from simple summer shirts to three-piece suits. Local Hanoi tailors are known for exceptional and fast work. Hoi An is one of the most popular places to get your clothes tailored at more than 300 tailors and leather-workers.
Bánh mì
The most iconic of all Vietnam dishes is probably Bánh mì sandwich. The expression is used for referring to bread in general, but it denotes a type of baguette (French heritage) which is cut in half and filled with various savory ingredients. It is also a popular street dish people eagerly wait in line for.
The most iconic of all Vietnam dishes is probably Bánh mì sandwich. The expression is used for referring to bread in general, but it denotes a type of baguette (French heritage) which is cut in half and filled with various savory ingredients. It is also a popular street dish people eagerly wait in line for.
Cooking in Hoi An
Hoi An is, considered by many, is the most beautiful village in Vietnam. Despite being a touristy destination, it offers authentic cooking experiences. A particularly good one is held by Ms Vy, and offers a variety of experiences to taste and prepare great dishes. Make sure you taste steamed pig brain and fried jellyfish, or you may stick to more traditional stuff if you are not an adventurous eater.
Hoi An is, considered by many, is the most beautiful village in Vietnam. Despite being a touristy destination, it offers authentic cooking experiences. A particularly good one is held by Ms Vy, and offers a variety of experiences to taste and prepare great dishes. Make sure you taste steamed pig brain and fried jellyfish, or you may stick to more traditional stuff if you are not an adventurous eater.
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