Vietnam – Destination Guide

From the misty mountains of Sapa to the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An and tropical beaches of Phu Quoc, Vietnam is a Southeast Asian adventure packed with rich culture, mouthwatering cuisine, and jaw-dropping landscapes. Sip egg coffee in Hanoi, cruise Ha Long Bay, or ride a scooter through the buzzing streets of Ho Chi Minh City – every moment here is magic.

🗺️ Regions at a Glance

🌄 Northern Vietnam

Rugged, scenic, and culturally rich, the North is a mix of dramatic mountain ranges and ancient cities. Places to visit:

• Hanoi – Vietnam’s buzzing capital full of history, street food, and French-colonial charm

• Sapa – Trek among rice terraces and stay in hill-tribe villages

• Ha Long Bay – Cruise past towering limestone islands on a traditional junk boat

• Ninh Binh – Explore river caves, temples, and karst cliffs on a bicycle

🏯 Central Vietnam

This region blends heritage sites with beach towns and jungle-covered highlands. Places to visit:

• Hoi An – UNESCO-listed town known for lanterns, tailors, and riverside charm

• Hue – Vietnam’s imperial capital, with ancient citadels and royal tombs

• Da Nang – Coastal city with beach resorts and access to the Hai Van Pass

• Phong Nha – Cave-lover’s paradise with the world’s largest cave systems

🌴 Southern Vietnam

Tropical, energetic, and buzzing with life, the South is a mix of city chaos and tranquil river life. Places to visit:

• Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – Dynamic metropolis with markets, museums, and nightlife

• Mekong Delta – Cruise floating markets and river villages

• Phu Quoc Island – White-sand beaches and laid-back island vibes

• Con Dao Islands – Untouched beaches and quiet diving spots

🌟 Highlights & Must-Do Activities

• 🚤 Cruise through Ha Long Bay among iconic limestone peaks

• 🎐 Wander the colorful streets of Hoi An by lantern light

• 🥾 Trek through Sapa’s rice terraces and stay with hill-tribe families

• 🕳️ Explore the eerie Cu Chi Tunnels from the Vietnam War

• 🛵 Motorbike the Hai Van Pass for stunning coastal views

• 🛶 Paddle through caves in Ninh Binh on a sampan boat

• 🏖️ Unwind on the beaches of Phu Quoc, Da Nang, or Con Dao

• 🍲 Take a street food tour in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City

✈️ Airports & Entry Points

• Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) – Hanoi, ideal for Northern Vietnam

• Da Nang International Airport (DAD) – Gateway to Hoi An and Central Vietnam

• Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) – Ho Chi Minh City and the South

📌 Practical Info

• 💰 Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND). Credit cards are accepted in cities and hotels, but cash is essential for street food, taxis, and rural areas.

• 🗣️ Language: Vietnamese. English is spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few local phrases goes a long way!

• 💵 Tipping: Not required but appreciated—tip guides, drivers, and hotel staff for great service.

• 🚗 Getting Around: Use Grab (rideshare app) in cities. Trains and overnight buses are common for long distances.

• 🔌 Power Adapter: 🔌 Types A, C, and D. Voltage is 220V. Bring a universal adapter for safety.

• 🦟 Health: Bring mosquito repellent, especially for rural and southern regions.

• 📱 SIM/eSIM: Affordable and easy to buy. Best providers: Viettel, Mobifone, Vinaphone. eSIMs available via Airalo or Holafly. Using an eSIM is our recommended choice while travelling anywhere in the world, and our recommended provider is Holafly. For more information on eSIMs, check out this blog.

🙏 Cultural Etiquette

• Respect: Dress modestly when visiting temples and pagodas.
• Shoes: Remove shoes before entering homes or sacred places.
• Greetings: A slight bow or a nod is a respectful greeting; handshakes are common.

🛂 Visa Requirements

Most travelers need a visa to enter Vietnam. You can apply online:
👉 Vietnam eVisa Official Website

Visiting nearby countries too?

• 🇰🇭 Cambodia: Cambodia eVisa

• 🇱🇦 Laos: Laos eVisa

• 🇹🇭 Thailand: Thailand eVisa

🍲 Vietnamese Cuisine

Light, fresh, and full of flavor, Vietnamese cuisine is a sensory delight:

• 🍜 Phở – Aromatic noodle soup with beef or chicken

• 🥖 Bánh mì – Crispy baguette with pickled veggies, pork, tofu, or egg

• 🥗 Gỏi cuốn – Fresh spring rolls with shrimp, vermicelli, herbs, and peanut sauce

• 🍢 Bún chả – Grilled pork with rice noodles, herbs, and dipping sauce

• 🍮 Chè – Sweet dessert soups and puddings

• ☕ Cà phê trứng – Egg coffee topped with creamy froth (Hanoi specialty!)

• 🧘‍♀️ Vegetarian-friendly options are common, especially in Buddhist-run eateries

🎒 Seasonal Packing List Summary

☀️ Dry Season (Nov–April):

• Light cotton clothing

• Jacket or warm layer for the north (esp. Sapa)

• Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, sunglasses

🌧️ Wet Season (May–Oct):

• Lightweight rain jacket or poncho

• Waterproof shoes or sandals

• Quick-dry clothing

• Mosquito repellent

🎒 Always Bring:

• Swimsuit

• Power adapter (A/C/D)

• Reusable water bottle

• Small daypack for excursions

Vietnam is a land of captivating beauty, rich traditions, and warm hospitality. With this guide, you’re ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through this enchanting country. Safe travels!

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