Verdant patchworks of rice paddies, pointed conical hats, and a country ravaged by war - these are some of the international images of Vietnam. But there are other scenes to be found too, ones of spectacular natural beauty, fascinating ethnic culture, imperial history and timeless traditional villages, idyllic beaches and dynamic cities.
Vietnam stretches along the east coast of the Indochinese Peninsula and is likened by its people to a long bamboo pole hung with two baskets of rice, represented by the two fertile regions at either end of the country. Between the lush Red River Delta and the highlands in the north, known for their magnificent scenery and colourful hill tribes, and the agricultural plains and floating markets of the Mekong Delta in the south, lie miles of white sandy beaches, towering mountains, rivers and dense forests, and the thousands of bizarre rock and cave formations on the islands of Halong Bay.
The impact of Japanese and Chinese trade and occupation, French colonisation and American intervention has left its mark on Vietnam, stretched over a period of more than two thousand years. However, the country has also been left with a vivid legacy from different cultures evident in the character of its towns, as well as in the architecture and food. The quaint town of Hoi An, once a major trading port, boasts the perfectly preserved architectural influences of the Asian merchants from the north, while the broad leafy boulevards of the capital Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are reminiscent of France. Menus offer Chinese variations of spring rolls, steamed dumplings and noodles. Hué is the old imperial capital of Vietnam with its royal palaces and palatial mausoleums, and nearby the battle sites of the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) are reminders of the brutality of war.
Ancient temples and colourful pagodas are scattered throughout the urban centres, while among
them stand hotels of modern luxury, and the development of tourism infrastructure is a booming business. Vietnam is a perfect balance between ancient times and the here and now, a country that reveres its past heroes, a nation that has collectively put the woes of war behind it, and people who welcome visitors to their country with open arms and friendly smiles.
Key Facts
Language:
The official language in Vietnam is Vietnamese, but Chinese, English and French are also spoken. Some tour guides may speak Russian and Japanese; numerous ethnic languages are also prevalent in particular areas.
Passport/Visa:
All visitors must have sufficient funds for the duration of their stay, onward or return tickets, and all documents needed for next destination. It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Currency:
The official currency is the Vietnamese dong (VND), and currency can be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change and larger hotels. Visa and MasterCard are becoming more widely acceptable, particularly in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and all major tourist centres; travellers who plan to take money out of Vietnam can leave with amounts of less than 15 million dong or USD 5000 (or equivalent in other foreign currencies) without having to declare to customs.
Electricity:
Electrical current in Vietnam is 220 volts, 50Hz. Plugs are either the two flat-pin or the two round-pin type. Three-blade plugs can be found in some of the newer hotels.
Travel to Vietnam
Overview
A trip to Vietnam is often centred around a journey between the capital Hanoi in the north, and Saigon (as Ho Chi Minh is still called locally) in the south, taking in the many highlights between the two. Vietnam's largest city and commercial capital, Saigon is a fascinating blend of old and new, where gleaming skyscrapers sit alongside ancient temples, and street vendors tout for business outside gleaming shopping malls. In the south of Vietnam, visitors should take a cruise through the lush Mekong Delta to see the famous floating markets, tour the infamous Cu Chi Tunnels or relax on coast near the tropical beach resort of Mui Ne.
Further up the coast travellers will find the delightful city of Hoi An, with its well-preserved old town. A couple of hours further on, they can explore the once magnificent Imperial City of Hue, which was the national capital and home to the Nguyen Dynasty from 1802-1945, and is now a culinary capital.
Hanoi is the modern-day capital, and has been an important city for a thousand years; the influences from the French and Chinese rulers is ever present in the architecture. Travellers can wander through the elaborate narrow streets of the Old Quarter, avoiding the many scooters, to find fashionable bars, restaurants and art galleries, alongside food vendors, street markets and Buddhist temples. The French Quarter by contrast has wide boulevards lined with imposing houses. A winding train ride up the mountains in Sapa lets visitors overlook it all. On the coast, visitors can find remote beaches, or take a boat cruise through the hundreds of towering islands in Halong Bay. The trip to nearby Ninh Binh offers tourists the chance to experience some of Vietnam's most beautiful rural scenery, with narrow rivers snaking past limestone cliffs and farmers tending their fields with water buffaloes.
Climate in Vietnam
The climate in Vietnam varies greatly from north to south. The north has a cool and dry season from November to April and a hot rainy season from May to October. The central coast north of Nha Trang has a similar climate with the winter monsoon bringing cool, wet weather between December and February. The south is hot and humid all year round, especially from February to May. The rainy season lasts from May to November. The central highlands have a similar climate to the south, but it is cooler and temperatures can be freezing in winter. The official peak season in Vietnam is from September to April.
Health Notes when travelling to Vietnam
Health risks in Vietnam include Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, Japanese encephalitis, bilharzia and diarrhoea. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for travel outside the main cities and towns, the Red River delta and north of Nha Trang; reported cases of dengue fever have increased in recent years, so visitors should take care to protect themselves from mosquito bites, particularly in the southern Mekong Delta region.
Travellers should seek medical advice about vaccinations at least three weeks before leaving for Vietnam, and everyone 12 years of age and older should get fully vaccinated for COVID-19 before visiting. Most visitors prefer to drink bottled water, even though the local tap water is drinkable.
Decent health care is available in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), where there are English-speaking doctors, but more complicated treatment may require medical evacuation. Pharmacies throughout the country are adequate, but
travellers should check expiry dates of medicines carefully and be aware that some medicines are counterfeit. Health insurance is essential.
Safety Notes when travelling to Vietnam
Vietnam is a relatively safe travel destination and violent crime is uncommon. However, petty crime occurs in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) and other large cities and tourist hot spots, so visitors should be wary with their belongings when in crowds and on public transport. Travellers are advised to leave valuables in their hotel safe and avoid obvious displays of wealth. During the monsoon season (usually between June and October) the country is prone to serious flooding and typhoons (until December), particularly in the Mekong Delta and Central Region.
Customs in Vietnam
Travellers should try to dress modestly when away from the beaches (shoulders covered and shorts below the knee) and avoid excessive public displays of affection. Shoes must be removed on entering religious sites and a donation is expected when visiting a temple or pagoda. Photography is restricted at ports, harbours and airports, and it is polite to ask permission before taking photographs of people, especially of ethnic minorities. Visitors should never leave chopsticks sticking upright in a bowl of rice, as it has strong connotations of death. Travellers should use a hand as opposed to pointing with a finger.
Duty Free in Vietnam
Travellers to Vietnam over 18 years do not have to pay duty on the following items: 200 cigarettes, 20 cigars, 250g tobacco; 1.5 litres alcohol with alcohol content higher than 22 percent and 2 litres below 22 percent; up to 5kg tea and 3kg coffee; perfume and items for personal consumption within reasonable amounts; other goods to the value of 10 million Vietnamese dong.
Doing Business in Vietnam
Pride and tact are important to bear in mind, as practices tend to be more formalised than in Western countries. Often it is best to be introduced rather than approach the person with whom business is intended to avoid creating suspicion. Negotiations and settlements may take longer as the Vietnamese like to examine contracts thoroughly. Formal clothing is common but the dress tends to be more casual in summer months. It is important to be on time for business appointments, as the Vietnamese consider lateness rude.
Business people are always addressed as Mr., Mrs., and Ms., followed by their personal name (not family name), unless otherwise referred; it is worth finding out in advance. Shaking hands with both hands is the most respectful greeting, though bowing is still popular among the older population, and meetings always begin with the exchange of business cards, which should be given and received with both hands; each person expects to
receive one, so it's best to bring a vast supply. Business hours are typically 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday with an hour taken at lunch, and 8am to 11.30am on Saturdays.
Communication in Vietnam
The international country code for Vietnam is +84. The outgoing code is 00, followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 001 for the United States or Canada). WiFi availability is widespread, expecially in the cities; travellers can purchase local SIM cards for unlocked phones.
Tipping in Vietnam
Most restaurants and hotels in Vietnam now add a five to ten percent service charge to their bills, though porters in top hotels will expect a small tip. Hired drivers and guides are usually tipped, and it is customary to round up the bill for taxi drivers in the cities.
Passport/Visa Note
All visitors must have sufficient funds for the duration of their stay, onward or return tickets, and all documents needed for next destination. It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements for Americans:
Visas are required. US passport holders must have a passport valid for a minimum of 30 days beyond the expiry of the visa. Visas are not required for stays of up to 30 days for US nationals arriving at Phu Quoc (PQC).
Entry requirements for Canadians:
Visas are required. Passports must be valid for a minimum of 30 days beyond the expirty of the visa. Visas are not required for stays of up to 30 days for Canadian nationals arriving at Phu Quoc (PQC).
Entry requirements for UK nationals:
Visas are required. Passports must be valid for a minimum of 30 days beyond the expirty of the visa. Visas are not required for stays of up to 30 days for UK nationals arriving at Phu Quoc (PQC).
Entry requirements for Australians:
Visas are required. Passports must be valid for a minimum of 30 days beyond the expiry of the visa. Visas are not required for stays of up to 30 days for Australia nationals arriving at Phu Quoc (PQC).
Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Visas are required. Irish passports must be valid for a minimum of 30 days beyond the expirty of the visa. Visas are not required for stays of up to 30 days for Irish nationals arriving at Phu Quoc (PQC).
Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
Visas are required. New Zealand passports must be valid for a minimum of 30 days beyond the expirty of the visa. Visas are not required for stays of up to 30 days for UK nationals arriving at Phu Quoc (PQC).
Entry requirements for South Africans:
Visas are required. South African passports must be valid for a minimum of 30 days beyond the expirty of the visa. Visas are not required for stays of up to 30 days for South African nationals arriving at Phu Quoc (PQC).
Vietnam Embassies
In the United States:
Embassy of Vietnam, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 861 0737.
In Canada:
Embassy of Vietnam, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 236 0772.
In the United Kingdom:
Embassy of Vietnam, London, United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland): +44 20 7937 1912.
In Australia:
Embassy of Vietnam, Canberra, Australia: +61 2 6286 6059.
In New Zealand:
Embassy of Vietnam, Wellington, New Zealand: +64 4 473 5912.
In South Africa:
Embassy of Vietnam, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 12 362 8119.
Foreign Embassies in Vietnam
American Embassy
United States Embassy, Hanoi: +84 24 3850 5000.
Canadian Embassy
Canadian Embassy, Hanoi: +84 24 3734 5000.
British Embassy
British Embassy, Hanoi: +84 24 3936 0500.
Australian Embassy
Australian Embassy, Hanoi: +84 24 377 40100.
Irish Embassy
Irish Embassy, Hanoi: +84 24 3974 3291.
New Zealand Embassy
New Zealand Embassy, Hanoi: +84 24 3824 1481.
South African Embassy
South African Embassy, Hanoi: +84 24 3936 2000.
Travel Advisories
Health Information for Travelers to Vietnam
Content source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Vietnam, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Vietnam. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
You may need this vaccine if your trip will last more than a month, depending on where you are going in Vietnam and what time of year you are traveling. You should also consider this vaccine if you plan to visit rural areas in Vietnam or will be spending a lot of time outdoors, even for trips shorter than a month. Your doctor can help you decide if this vaccine is right for you based on your travel plans. See more in-depth information on Japanese encephalitis in Vietnam.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
When traveling in Vietnam, you should avoid mosquito bites to prevent malaria. You may need to take prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria, depending on your travel plans, such as where you are going, when you are traveling, and if you are spending a lot of time outdoors or sleeping outside. Talk to your doctor about how you can prevent malaria while traveling. For more information on malaria in Vietnam, see malaria in Vietnam.
Rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Vietnam, so CDC recommends this vaccine for the following groups:
Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities (such as camping, hiking, biking, adventure travel, and caving) that put them at risk for animal bites.
People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
People who are taking long trips or moving to Vietnam
Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
There is no risk of yellow fever in Vietnam. The government of Vietnam requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. This does not include the US. If you are traveling from a country other than the US, check this list to see if you may be required to get the yellow fever vaccine: Countries with risk of yellow fever virus (YFV) transmission.
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Vietnam, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Vietnam. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
You may need this vaccine if your trip will last more than a month, depending on where you are going in Vietnam and what time of year you are traveling. You should also consider this vaccine if you plan to visit rural areas in Vietnam or will be spending a lot of time outdoors, even for trips shorter than a month. Your doctor can help you decide if this vaccine is right for you based on your travel plans. See more in-depth information on Japanese encephalitis in Vietnam.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
When traveling in Vietnam, you should avoid mosquito bites to prevent malaria. You may need to take prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria, depending on your travel plans, such as where you are going, when you are traveling, and if you are spending a lot of time outdoors or sleeping outside. Talk to your doctor about how you can prevent malaria while traveling. For more information on malaria in Vietnam, see malaria in Vietnam.
Rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Vietnam, so CDC recommends this vaccine for the following groups:
Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities (such as camping, hiking, biking, adventure travel, and caving) that put them at risk for animal bites.
People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
People who are taking long trips or moving to Vietnam
Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
There is no risk of yellow fever in Vietnam. The government of Vietnam requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. This does not include the US. If you are traveling from a country other than the US, check this list to see if you may be required to get the yellow fever vaccine: Countries with risk of yellow fever virus (YFV) transmission.
Note: Zika is a risk in Vietnam. Zika infection during pregnancy can cause serious birth defects. Therefore, pregnant women should not travel to Vietnam. Partners of pregnant women and couples planning pregnancy should know the possible risks to pregnancy and take preventive steps (more information).
Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Vietnam, so your behaviors are important.
Eat and drink safely
Unclean food and water can cause travelers' diarrhea and other diseases. Reduce your risk by sticking to safe food and water habits.
Eat
Food that is cooked and served hot
Hard-cooked eggs
Fruits and vegetables you have washed in clean water or peeled yourself
Pasteurized dairy products
Don't Eat
Food served at room temperature
Food from street vendors
Raw or soft-cooked (runny) eggs
Raw or undercooked (rare) meat or fish
Unwashed or unpeeled raw fruits and vegetables
Unpasteurized dairy products
”Bushmeat” (monkeys, bats, or other wild game)
Drink
Bottled water that is sealed
Water that has been disinfected
Ice made with bottled or disinfected water
Carbonated drinks
Hot coffee or tea
Pasteurized milk
Don’t Drink
Tap or well water
Ice made with tap or well water
Drinks made with tap or well water (such as reconstituted juice)
Unpasteurized milk
Take Medicine
Talk with your doctor about taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs with you on your trip in case you get sick.
Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Vietnam. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.
What can I do to prevent bug bites?
Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.
What type of insect repellent should I use?
FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
FOR PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES ONLY: Products with one of the following active ingredients can also help prevent mosquito bites. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.
For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites.
Some diseases in Vietnam—such as dengue and filariasis—are spread by bugs and cannot be prevented with a vaccine. Follow the insect avoidance measures described above to prevent these and other illnesses.
If your travel plans in Vietnam include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.
Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can be deadly. Eat and drink regularly, wear loose and lightweight clothing, and limit physical activity during high temperatures.
If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
Protect yourself from UV radiation: use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.
Stay safe around water
Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
Do not dive into shallow water.
Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.
Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Vietnam. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.
Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.
Follow these tips to protect yourself:
Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.
All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:
Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
Go to a doctor right away.
Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.
Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.
Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Vietnam’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.
Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website (www.jointcommissioninternational.org).
In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.
Malaria is a risk in some parts of Vietnam. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.
Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.
In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.
Walking
Be smart when you are traveling on foot.
Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.
Riding/Driving
Choose a safe vehicle.
Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.
Think about the driver.
Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
Arrange payment before departing.
Follow basic safety tips.
Wear a seatbelt at all times.
Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Vietnam may be poor.
Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
If you choose to drive a vehicle in Vietnam, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Flying
Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.
Medical Evacuation Insurance
If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.
Helpful Resources
Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.
For information traffic safety and road conditions in Vietnam, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Vietnam.
Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
Follow all local laws and social customs.
Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.
To call for emergency services while in Vietnam, dial 115 for an ambulance, 114 for the fire department, and 113 for the police. Write these numbers down to carry with you on your trip.
Learn as much as you can about Vietnam before you travel there. A good place to start is the country-specific information on Vietnam from the US Department of State
Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Vietnam for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.
Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?
It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.
Be aware of current health issues in Vietnam. Learn how to protect yourself.
Watch Level 1, Practice Usual Precautions
UpdatedLunar New YearDecember 06, 2017The Year of the Dog begins on February 16, 2018, and many people will travel to Asia to celebrate the Lunar New Year. Destinations include Australia, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Laos, Macau, Malaysia, Mauritius, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Dengue in VietnamAugust 24, 2017Recently, there has been a large increase in the number of dengue cases in Vietnam, according to a World Health Organization (WHO) report. Travelers to Vietnam should protect themselves against mosquito bites to avoid getting the illness
If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic. Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.
If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.
Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.
Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.
Currency
The official currency is the Vietnamese dong (VND), and currency can be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change and larger hotels. Visa and MasterCard are becoming more widely acceptable, particularly in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and all major tourist centres; travellers who plan to take money out of Vietnam can leave with amounts of less than 15 million dong or USD 5000 (or equivalent in other foreign currencies) without having to declare to customs.
Exchange rate for 1 VND - Vietnamese Dong
0.00BMD Bermudan Dollar
0.00EUR Euro
0.00USD U.S. Dollar
0.00GBP U.K. Pound Sterling
0.01JPY Japanese Yen
0.00CAD Canadian Dollar
0.00CHF Swiss Franc
0.00AUD Australian Dollar
0.00UAH Ukrainian Hryvnia
0.02KZT Kazakhstani Tenge
3.66LBP Lebanese Pound
0.00LYD Libyan Dinar
0.00BOB Bolivian Boliviano
0.00NPR Nepalese Rupee
0.00OMR Omani Rial
0.00QAR Qatari Rial
0.00SGD Singapore Dollar
0.00SEK Swedish Krona
0.00TTD Trinidad Tobago Dollar
0.00VEF Venezuelan Bolivar
0.00DOP Dominican Peso
0.00HRK Croatian Kuna
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0.02XOF West African CFA Franc
0.00PGK Papua New Guinean kina
0.00BSD Bahamian Dollar
0.00FJD Fiji Dollar
0.00HNL Honduran Lempira
0.01DZD Algerian Dinar
0.00MMK Myanma Kyat
0.00BWP Botswana Pula
0.00PEN Peruvian Nuevo Sol
0.04CLP Chilean Peso
0.02AMD Armenia Dram
0.00CZK Czech Koruna
0.00MDL Moldova Lei
0.01ISK Icelandic Krona
0.50UZS Uzbekistan Sum
0.00ILS Israeli New Sheqel
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0.00HKD Hong Kong Dollar
0.02XAF Central African CFA Franc
0.03ARS Argentine Peso
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Exchange Rate for U.S. Dollar to Vietnamese Dong
1 USD = 25,405.70 VND
Exchange Rate for Euro to Vietnamese Dong
1 EUR = 27,298.82 VND
Exchange Rate for Canadian Dollar to Vietnamese Dong
1 CAD = 18,589.76 VND
Exchange Rate for U.K. Pound Sterling to Vietnamese Dong
1 GBP = 31,890.75 VND
Exchange Rate for Australian Dollar to Vietnamese Dong
1 AUD = 16,742.92 VND
Exchange Rate for New Zealand Dollar to Vietnamese Dong
1 NZD = 15,222.47 VND
Exchange Rate for South African Rand to Vietnamese Dong
1 ZAR = 1,372.55 VND
Ho Chi Minh Airport (SGN) Tan Son Nhat International Airport http://www.hochiminhcityairport.com
Location: Ho Chi Minh City The airport is situated four miles (7km) from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon).
Time: Local time is GMT +7.
Contacts: Tel: +84 28 3848 5383
Transfer between terminals: The terminals are in walking distance of each other, taking 10 minutes at most.
Getting to the city: Minibuses and metered taxis are available for transport to the city centre. Travellers should make sure the driver is wearing an official name badge and that the meter is on. Most hotels can arrange transport for arriving passengers, but visitors should organise this in advance.
Car rental: Car hire companies at the airport include Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz and Sixt, but cars must normally be hired with drivers, as travellers without a Vietnamese driver's licence may not drive rental cars.
Airport Taxis: The main taxi queue is located on the ground floor on the left side of the international terminal. Mai Linh taxi company is authorised by the airport; Sasco is the only company allowed to pick up passengers directly adjacent to the building.
Facilities: The airport is small, but the facilities are perfectly adequate. Facilities include tourist information desks, a children's play area, rest zones, foreign exchange kiosks, a post office, VIP lounges, and a selection of restaurants and snack bars.
Parking: Parking is available at the airport.
Hanoi Airport (HAN) Noi Bai International Airport http://www.hanoiairportonline.com
Location: Hanoi The airport is situated 18 miles (29km) north of Hanoi.
Time: Local time is GMT +7.
Contacts: Tel: +84 4 3886 5047
Transfer between terminals: Passengers can use a shuttle bus, which runs from Quang Trung Street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, and operates from 4AM to 9PM. It departs every 30 to 45 minutes.
Getting to the city: City bus Routes 7 and 17 run to Hanoi from the airport, stopping on the right side of the terminal exit. Buses run every 15 to 20 minutes between 5am and 10pm, and the journey takes approximately one hour. Route 7 goes to the Kim Ma Bus Station, while Route 17 connects to the Long Bien Station. The bus fare is about VDN 5,000. Airport minibuses offer direct transportation to hotels.
Car rental: Car rental agencies at the airport include Avis, Budget, Hertz, Europcar and Sixt. Cars must normally be hired with drivers, as travellers without a Vietnamese driver's licence may not drive rental cars.
Airport Taxis: Taxis are available outside the terminal; rides to the city centre take approximately 30 minutes, and cost about VDN 320,000.
Facilities: The airport has currency exchange and ATMs, a VIP lounge, massage services, shops, and restaurants.
Parking: Short and long-term parking is available at the airport.
Da Nang International Airport (DAD) Da Nang International Airport http://www.danangairportonline.com
Location: Da Nang The airport is located one mile (2km) from Da Nang's centre.
Time: Local time is GMT +7.
Getting to the city: Taxis and motorbike taxis are available on the arrivals level. The nearest bus stop to the airport is at the Han Market in Bach Dang Street, from which travellers can make connections to the central bus station.
Car rental: Car rental is available at the airport, but cars must normally be hired with drivers, as travellers without a Vietnamese drivers licence may not drive rental cars.
Airport Taxis: Taxis from several companies are available on the arrivals level. Travellers should confirm a fixed or metered rate with a taxi representative.
Facilities: Airport facilities include a waiting area, restaurants, a bar and sales offices. Danang's International terminal has a broader range of restaurants and shops.
Parking: Parking is available near the terminal.
Hue Airport (HUI) Phu Bai International Airport
Location: The airport is located nine miles (15km) from Hue city centre.
Time: Local time is GMT +7.
Getting to the city: The airport offers a shuttle bus service for passengers to get to Hue city, the cost of which is VND 30,000 to VND 40,000. A more convenient (but more expensive) option is to catch a taxi or motor taxi outside of the terminal.
Car rental: Car rental is available in Hue itself, but travellers will need to get there via public transport.
Airport Taxis: Taxi or motor taxi services are available outside of the terminal and cost anything between VND 120,000 and VND 300,000 to get into the city.
Facilities: The airport only has basic facilities.
Parking: Parking is available near the terminal.
Nha Trang Airport (CXR) Cam Ranh International Airport http://www.nhatrangairport.com
Location: Nha Trang The airport is located 22 miles (35km) from Nha Trang city centre.
Time: Local time is GMT +7.
Getting to the city: Vans and taxis are also available to transport passengers to their required destination.
Car rental: Car rental is available, but cars are normally be hired with drivers, as travellers without a Vietnamese driver's licence may not drive rental cars.
Airport Taxis: Taxis are available at the airport and are located right in front of the terminal building, in the parking lot. Several taxi companies offer a fixed fare rate to Nha Trang; rates are displayed at the taxi stand.
Facilities: The airport terminal provides various services, including a shop, currency exchange, ATMs, snack bars, and a coffee shop.
Parking: Parking is available opposite the airport terminal.
Overview of the Attractions in Vietnam
A trip to Vietnam is often centred around a journey between the capital Hanoi in the north, and Saigon (as Ho Chi Minh is still called locally) in the south, taking in the many highlights between the two. Vietnam's largest city and commercial capital, Saigon is a fascinating blend of old and new, where gleaming skyscrapers sit alongside ancient temples, and street vendors tout for business outside gleaming shopping malls. In the south of Vietnam, visitors should take a cruise through the lush Mekong Delta to see the famous floating markets, tour the infamous Cu Chi Tunnels or relax on coast near the tropical beach resort of Mui Ne.
Further up the coast travellers will find the delightful city of Hoi An, with its well-preserved old town. A couple of hours further on, they can explore the once magnificent Imperial City of Hue, which was the national capital and home to the Nguyen Dynasty from 1802-1945, and is now a culinary capital.
Hanoi is the modern-day capital, and has been an important city for a thousand years; the influences from the French and Chinese rulers is ever present in the architecture. Travellers can wander through the elaborate narrow streets of the Old Quarter, avoiding the many scooters, to find fashionable bars, restaurants and art galleries, alongside food vendors, street markets and Buddhist temples. The French Quarter by contrast has wide boulevards lined with imposing houses. A winding train ride up the mountains in Sapa lets visitors overlook it all. On the coast, visitors can find remote beaches, or take a boat cruise through the hundreds of towering islands in Halong Bay. The trip to nearby Ninh Binh offers tourists the chance to experience some of Vietnam's most beautiful rural scenery, with narrow rivers snaking past limestone cliffs and farmers tending their fields with water buffaloes.
Hoi An Hue
The quaint riverside town of Hoi An was an important port town and one of the major trading centres in South East Asia during the 16th and 17th centuries. The cultural influences of the Japanese and Chinese merchants are still evident today in the town's architecture, with the famous Japanese Covered Bridge and the distinctly Chinese atmosphere of the Old Quarter forming part of its unique character. A UNESCO-listed town, Hoi An has preserved much of its heritage and has remained largely void of traffic and pollution. Lining the narrow streets are two-storey Chinese shops, with charming wooden facades and tiled roofs, merchants' homes, Assembly Halls and temples that preserve an ancient character. On the 15th day of every lunar month, the ancient character of this sleepy town takes on fairytale proportions, as porches, streets and windows are lit by the glow of coloured lanterns; a practice reminiscent of the old days and aimed at retaining the spirit of
the past. Hoi An is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination, not only for its attractive old-world atmosphere and genuine friendliness, but also for its restaurants, serving delicious Hoi An specialities, and tailor-made clothes. Rows of little tailor shops with rolls of fine silk offer the chance to have beautiful garments made up within hours; however, the insistence of the tailors can be annoying. Two miles (4km) to the east of Hoi An is the beach of Cua Dai, considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Central Vietnam, with its long, white and sandy coastline. From Hoi An, visitors can make trips to the large marble rock formations 'The Marble Mountains', which are closer to Da Nang, or take a short river cruise. Travellers would be remiss not to take the time to visit Hoi An, if only to take a moment to bask in its history.
Old Quarter Hanoi
The ancient meandering streets of the Old Quarter are each named after the crafts and speciality trades traditionally practised by the original artisan's guilds in the 13th century. Each guild was grouped around a temple, or dinh, dedicated to the particular beliefs of the village from where the guild originated, and many of these temples are open to the public today. The early merchant's quarter affords an intriguing glimpse into life centuries ago with covered markets, and the ancient narrow buildings that still line the streets, known as tube or tunnel houses that contained shops. Businesses were taxed according to the width of their storefront and resulted in shops only seven foot (2m) wide with a series of storerooms, workshops and living quarters extending behind to a length of up to 197ft (60m). Many streets are still devoted to a predominant trade such as silks, religious objects or textiles, silver jewellery, antiques, and there are numerous art
galleries and craft stores, as well as cafes and pavement restaurants lining the streets. Traffic within the Old Quarter is a chaotic mix of bicycles, motorbikes and pedestrians passing noisily down the narrow streets and shady alleyways.
Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum Hanoi
Ba Dinh Square was where Ho Chi Minh read out the Declaration of Independence in 1945, and is the site of annual national celebrations today. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum dominates the site's west side and is where the embalmed body of the beloved public figure, 'father of the modern state', and 'liberator of the Vietnamese people' is displayed. The body of Ho Chi Minh is enclosed in a glass case, the traditional way to honour famous communist leaders. Security is tight, there is a strict dress code and it is imperative to maintain a respectful demeanour while inside; this also means no photographs. Nearby is the Ho Chi Minh Museum that commemorates his life, housing a collection of military orders, correspondence, manifestos and photographs that illustrates the crucial role he had in the country's history.
One Pillar Pagoda Hanoi
One Pillar Pagoda was constructed to celebrate the tale of the heirless Emperor Ly Thai Tong, who dreamt about receiving a son from the Buddhist goddess of mercy and compassion, seated on a lotus flower. He married shortly after and had a son, and the pagoda was built to honour the event. It is the most interesting of the city's numerous pagodas and, beneath the ornate curved roof, people come to pray for fertility and well-being, with allegedly miraculous effects. The unique wooden structure was designed to resemble a lotus flower, the Buddhist representation of enlightenment, emerging out of the water, with the single stone pillar its symbolic stalk. It was destroyed by the French during the first Indochina War and was subsequently rebuilt.
Temple of Literature (Van Mieu) Hanoi
The Temple of Literature is Vietnam's historical seat of learning and is the most sacred place for the disciples of Confucius. It is one of the few remaining buildings from the original city founded by Emperor Ly Thanh Tong in the 11th century and is a well-preserved example of Vietnamese architecture. It became the site of the country's first university in 1076. Consisting of a complex of small buildings and five walled courtyards, it was an exclusive establishment teaching the principles of Confucius. In the third courtyard is a pond, the Well of Heavenly Clarity, and beside it are 82 stone stelae, mounted on tortoises and engraved with the names of successful graduates. Over a period of 900 years, thousands of Vietnamese scholars graduated from the university. In honour of their teacher's legacy, there is also a temple dedicated to Confucius, a place where the king and his mandarins would make sacrifices.
Halong Bay Hanoi
The natural wonder of Halong Bay has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Renowned for its spectacular scenery and limestone grottos and caves, the bay is peppered with over 1,600 inlets and tiny islands emerging almost mystically out of the emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. Wind and wave erosion have scored the site to form dramatic rock shapes, many of which contain caves. Many of the islands have been named for their astonishing resemblance to their namesakes, such as Dragon, Incense Burner, Pair of Roosters and Man's Head Islands. The weird protuberances have been at the source of several local legends, particularly about a dragon whose thrashing tail created the bay and its islands. The name Vinh Ha Long means 'where the dragon descended into the sea'. The most impressive cave is the Hang Dau Go (Grotto of the Wooden Stakes), an extensive grotto with rock formations presenting various eerie images in the mysterious light. It was named from
the Battle of 1288 when General Tran Hung Dao prepared hundreds of stakes to be planted in the riverbed of the largest chamber to counter a boat attack. Nearby the beautiful Hang Thien Cung cave is famous for its sparkling stalagmites and stalactites. When booking a cruise in advance, travellers should consider reserving a night or two, to experience Halong Bay at its most picturesque; sunrise, sunset and star-scattered night.
Sapa and Bac Ha Hanoi
The old hill station of Sapa sits high on the edge of a plateau surrounded by spectacular scenery and the Hoang Lien Mountains, which boast Vietnam's highest peak, Fan Si Pan. Sapa functions as a market town and a gathering spot for local tribes who come into town to trade every weekend. The market is excellent for buying handicrafts and people watching. Colourful tunics of the Dao and Giay people mix with the black and blue clothing and silver ornamentation of the Black Hmong tribe, while bright red scarves cover the heads of the Red Hmong who carry large woven baskets on their backs brimming with goods. Nearly 75 miles (140 km) from Sapa is the small town of Bac Ha. Situated in a valley, Bac Ha is famous for its Sunday market. Much less touristy than Sapa, the market is a riot of colour and noise, a place not only for trade but also for socialising. All paths leading into town are filled with people going to market, some riding horses or water buffalo,
and the square is a mix of different minorities, buying and selling, or gathered in groups around a central pot of food. The Flower Hmong are the most vivid, with richly coloured clothes of bright red, blue and pink, and skirts embroidered with delicate flowers. The markets have become a major tourist attraction and it is important that visitors to the region are sensitive to local culture and traditions, particularly when taking photographs of people.
The Citadel Hue
Constructed by Emperor Gia Long in 1804 for the private use of the emperor and his household, the enormous moated Citadel is comprised of three separate walled enclosures. The outer citadel, surrounded by a six mile (10km) perimeter wall, punctuated by 10 gates, frames the Imperial Enclosure used for official business. At the very centre is the Forbidden Purple City, the restricted residence of the emperor and his concubines. This once magnificent Imperial City originally included many magnificent features, with tombs, pagodas and temples, lakes and lavishly gilded pavilions. Today remnants of the palaces contain ornate ceremonial halls and throne rooms, mosaics adorn roofs and pillars, and beautiful landscaped gardens surround the remaining buildings. Sadly much was destroyed during the Vietnamese War, and a fire further damaged the Forbidden Purple City, but it is still possible to see evidence of its past glory. The main entrance is through the Ngo Mon
Gate (Noon Gate), a stunning example of Nguyen architecture, with separate entrances for the emperor, his mandarins and the royal elephants. A soaring multi-roofed pavilion used for important royal proclamations, sits elegantly on top.
Royal Tombs Hue
South of Hue are eight splendid royal tombs of the Nguyen emperors, situated among the hills on the banks of the Perfume River. Often designed while the emperor was still alive, each mausoleum was built to serve as a palace for the afterlife. In this vein the tombs were built as vast complexes, each with traditional functions. These complexes include paved courtyards lined with mandarin statues of emperors, a stone stele inscribed with details of his reign, a main temple dedicated to the worship of the deceased and containing personal effects, and the tomb itself. Surrounding the complex were artificial ponds in a garden-like setting. The Tomb of Tu Dac, with its lotus-filled lake and central pavilion, the remarkable mosaics of Minh Mang's Tomb, and the simple and serene Tomb of Khai Dinh are the most interesting.
The Perfume River Hue
A boat trip on the Perfume River is one of the highlights of a visit to Hue and includes stops to visit some of the city's main attractions. Passing other sampans (traditional rowing boats) on their way to the market, houseboats and dragon boats, a typical trip will take visitors to the Thien Mu Pagoda, Hon Chen Temple and the Royal Tombs. The Thien Mu Pagoda is one of the oldest and most attractive religious structures in Vietnam, dating back to 1601. Its most striking feature is the seven-tiered tower, representing the seven steps to enlightenment. Another way to experience the Perfume River is on an evening boat trip hosting a traditional folksong performance. This long-standing tradition goes back to the rule of the emperors when artists would play music and recite poetry from a rowing boat on the river.
DMZ (Demilitarised Zone) and Vinh Moc Hue
Under the Geneva Accords of 1954, Vietnam was split into North and South along the 17th parallel. The Ben Hai River was selected as the temporary demarcation line. A three-mile (5km) strip of no-man's land on either side of the border was known as the DMZ or Demilitarised Zone. It was bombed into a desolate wasteland, riddled with land mines and surrounded by barbed wire during the war. The area surrounding the DMZ and the land in between was the worst affected, and the amount of explosives, napalm and chemicals used, including Agent Orange, has left the once heavily forested land with stunted growth and infertile soil. Historical sites and landmarks include the Hien Luong Bridge spanning the river, entry to the Ho Chi Minh Trail that bypassed the border, the American firebase at Con Thien, U.S Marine base at Khe Sanh, and the Truong Son War Martyr Cemetery dedicated to the thousands who died on the Ho Chi Minh Trail. A guided tour is strongly recommended
as there are no signs and the area still contains unexploded landmines. Vinh Moc is known for the extraordinary complex of tunnels constructed by the villagers as an underground village in which to shelter from American bombardments. Faced with the total destruction of their village in 1965, they dug an underground network consisting of three layers starting at a depth of 33ft (10m) with room for 300 people, including wells, a school, clinics, storerooms, observation posts, ventilation shafts and a maternity room where 17 babies were delivered during the war. A section has been restored and is open to visitors and there is a small museum at the entrance.
War Remnants Museum Ho Chi Minh City
The disturbing War Remnants Museum highlights the horrors of modern combat, and especially portrays the suffering inflicted on the Vietnamese people during the Vietnam War. Its former name, the Museum of American War Crimes, was altered so as not to cause offence to American visitors, but the museum's displays still give an anti-American perspective. The museum houses a collection of weapons, machinery, artefacts and horrific photographs illustrating the devastating effects of napalm, Agent Orange and other weapons of mass destruction. One room is dedicated to biological warfare, including the effects of the defoliant sprays that were dumped over the country. Another room looks at worldwide demonstrations for peace and international opposition to the war. In the courtyard there are tanks, helicopters, planes and bombs on display.
Website: warremnantsmuseum.com/
Cholon Ho Chi Minh City
Cholon, the Chinese district of Saigon, is comprised of a dense network of vibrant streets and alleyways. It was first settled by the Chinese Hoa merchants at the end of the 18th century, and is now the home of Vietnam's biggest ethnic minority community. Cholon diverges from the conventional 'Chinatown' set up that exists in many prominent cities the world over, largely due to its impressive expanse. When visitors enter Cholon, the difference in environment is immediately noticeable. Mandarin signposts lead into a fascinating labyrinth of temples, restaurants, exotic stores, medicine shops and markets. The best place to experience the bustle of trade is at the crowded Binh Tay Market, where the corridors are filled with stalls offering a variety of exotic produce, from live tethered ducks to nuts and seeds, as well as other household items. There are several temples of interest in Cholon, including the Quan Am Pagoda with its ornate exterior, Phuoc An Hoi
Quan Temple, its roof exquisitely ornamented with dragons and sea monsters, and the Thien Hau Pagoda dedicated to the goddess of the sea.
Cu Chi Tunnels Ho Chi Minh City
The Cu Chi Tunnels system is an underground network of tunnels dug in the 1940s by the Vietnamese as a place to hide during the fight against the French. The network was later expanded and used in the American War. Today the system is more than 150 miles (250km) long. It is comprised of winding tunnels and unlit offshoots, secret trap doors connecting narrow routes to hidden shelters, local rivers and tunnels reaching to the Cambodian border. It was once a sprawling city of improvised hospitals, living quarters, kitchens and fresh water wells, with some tunnels barely large enough to wriggle through. The plan was to launch surprise assaults on the enemy, and then disappear; this strategy was so successful that the superior firepower of the French and American armies was insufficient in the face of continuous ambushes in which the assailants seemed to vanish into thin air. Many of the tunnels have been enlarged to allow visitors the dirty and claustrophobic
experience of crawling through a portion of the underground network, past secret trapdoors and booby traps laid against invasion. The two main sites, Ben Dinh and Ben Duoc, are different in that one was constructed specifically for tourists (Ben Dinh) and the other was actually used in war (Ben Duoc). Due to their popularity with tourists, hard-sell vendors can be a constant hassle among the touring throngs.
Mekong Delta Ho Chi Minh City
The delta is a vast network of waterways formed by the Mekong River. It is surrounded by a fertile patchwork of endless green rice paddies, orchards and swamplands, where most of the country's rice is grown. Not only does the Mekong River irrigate what is known as 'the rice bowl of Vietnam', it also serves as a vital form of transport. A unique way of life has evolved among the villagers that have lived on or beside the river for centuries. The best way to experience the delta is by boat, joining the rowing boats and fishermen, rickety houseboats, ferries and traditional sampans on the brown water. On the banks are small villages, vegetable gardens, fish farms and stilted houses. Trading is carried out between boats at floating markets, where whole sections of the river are covered by bobbing merchants who advertise their wares, often hung from long bamboo poles. There are several towns in the region from where visitors can arrange boat trips if they
haven't already been offered as part of an organised tour. Tourists should try to avoid the rainy season, as the tides may be too high for canal travel. There is an impressive range of local dishes on offer and, besides seafood, there are opportunities for adventurous travellers to sample snake, eel and bat.
Pham Ngu Lao Ho Chi Minh City
Located in District One, this area of Saigon is known as South Vietnam's backpacker district. Stretching along the streets of De Tham, Pham Ngu Lau and Bui Vien, Pham Ngu Lao is often compared to the more famous Khao San road of Bangkok, and is a similar amalgamation of bars, guesthouses, restaurants, souvenir shops and small travel agencies. Known also to be an expat playground, these bars stay open later than most in the city. The prominent Go2 Bar is the most popular among tourists but dozens dot the area. Day trips to the Mekong Delta or the Cu Chi tunnels are easily organised in any of the travel agencies as well as transport to most of Vietnam. Although prices vary the trips usually are the same despite the agency.
Ben Thanh Market Ho Chi Minh City
Located in Ho Chi Minh City's District 1, Ben Thanh Market is one of the destination's best known landmarks. It is often hot, crowded and frantic, but it's a great place to buy local handicrafts, branded goods and souvenirs. A wet market at the back sells every kind of food imaginable. It is rumoured that buyers will be given their purchases in differently coloured bags according to their bargaining ability, as a sign to other vendors. The market is open daily from 7am to 6pm, but an outdoor night market and food stalls that surround the area are open until much later.
Cat Ba island Hanoi
For most, a trip in Halong Bay means at least a night on Cat Ba Island. Many enlist for a package tour of one night on the island and one on a boat, but Cat Ba is worth investing extra time in. This 54 sq mile (140 sq km) island offers impressive beach relaxation, and hardcore outdoor activities include kayaking, trekking and world-class rock climbing. Travellers who wish to relax can choose between three beaches that are within walking distance of town. Each is spacious and all are protected inlets with views of Halong islands. Beaches one and three are the most secluded and offer beautiful views from the short walks along surrounding cliff lines. Those looking for something more rugged can visit the many limestone cliffs dotting the island, as they're ideal for rock climbing; hotels located on the town's main strip offer guides and gear. Various treks range in length but most are fairly steep. However, the reward is well worth it, as they give a
bird's-eye-view of the island's national park, which is also home to the rare Cat Ba Langur. All hotels can arrange excellent boat tours of the surrounding islands. These include visits to deep caves with stalagmites and stalactites, secluded swimming holes, floating fish farms and kayaking. The tour is the same regardless of who it's booked through, so the cheaper the better. Whether it has been a relaxing day of sun and sea or one of thrilling adventure, it must end at the bay's floating restaurant, which has some of the best seafood in Vietnam.
Mui Ne Ho Chi Minh City
Mui Ne is Vietnam's most western style resort beach. The city itself is a typical Vietnamese fishing community sporting a fleet of beautiful fishing boats but with little to see or do in town. The beach beside it, however, is home to luxury resorts and hotels, while cheaper guesthouses can be found across the road or closer to town. A variety of water activities are available including surfing, kite surfing, jet-skiing, and sailing. The young and tireless will enjoy the beach and roadside bars, where cheap drinks and electro music carry on late into the night. Most parts of the long six mile (10 km) stretch of beach resemble the tropical paradise Mui Ne has always been toted as, but other sections have experienced coastal erosion. Travellers should keep this in mind when selecting a resort. There are red-coloured sand dunes close to town, but beyond those lie much larger white sand dunes, which are worth the extra half-hour trip. For a small tip, children
will rent out sand sleds and demonstrate how to surf the dunes. One of Vietnam's top golf courses is also just outside the city. Mui Ne is a scenic five-hour motorbike trip from Vung Tau or five to seven-hour highway bus ride from Ho Chi Minh City.
Dam Sen Water Park Ho Chi Minh City
The best way to cool off in the hot dusty city is the Dam Sen Water Park. The water park is set within three hectares of Vietnamese gardens and is the centre of a larger theme park complex. Among all the rides there is a great selection of water slides which hurtle passengers, full speed, up railings and down steep drops. The large wave pool offers more relaxing fun and the wide stream encircling the park is a great place to float under the hot sun. There is also a designated section of the compound for relaxing away from the excited crowds.
Website: http://www.damsenwaterpark.com.vn/en/
Da Lat
Located in Vietnam's central highlands region, Da Lat is the capital of Lam Dong Province and a popular tourist destination. It offers sun-burned travellers an Alpine haven, ideal for rest and recuperation. Full of beautiful French Colonial architecture, the city's natural surrounds are also staggeringly picturesque, attested to by the fact that in Vietnamese, 'Da Lat' means 'city of thousands of pine trees'. There is much to see and to explore in the city's misty surrounding valleys, including Truc Lam, a working Buddhist monastery in a pristine pine forest setting; Lang Bian, a nearby mountain with spectacular scenery, that visitors can hike up in three hours; the Da Lat Flower Park, where the area's famous orchids and roses take centre-stage; and Elephant Falls, a striking collection of waterfalls that is guaranteed to interest the most jaded of travellers. With a wonderfully temperate year-round climate (it is nicknamed 'the city of eternal Spring') Da
Lat, much like Darjeeling in India, is often used by travellers as a restful place to stop and catch their breaths. The best time to visit Da Lat is in the dry season, which lasts from November to April.
Phu Quoc
Located in the Gulf of Siam, Phu Quoc is Vietnam's largest island, and is fast becoming a heavyweight tourist destination. The densely forested, mountainous island is ringed by some of the most beautiful, unspoilt beaches in the whole of Southeast Asia. Accessible by sea or air, Phu Quoc is the ideal place to spend a week or two. There will be more than enough to entertain visitors between relaxing on the beach, sampling some of the famous seafood, shopping for pearls in the fishing village of Ham Ninh, or heading off to Phu Quoc National Park to hike and swim in a tranquil mountain pool. The island is famous for its fish sauce (nuoc mam), which is an essential ingredient of all Southeast Asian cooking, and a wonderful gift for friends and family back home. For those looking to be active on the island, Rainbow Divers offer excellent opportunities for snorkelling and scuba-diving; and it is highly recommended that visitors rent a scooter or moped for their
time on Phu Quoc, as it has to be the coolest, easiest way to zip around. The best time to visit the island is in the dry season, which lasts from December to May. Although Phu Quoc is currently experiencing rapid development on the east coast, it is still possible for travellers to explore relatively untouched areas of the island.
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Luxury hospitality company Four Seasons is wowing travelers with a brand-new around-the-world private jet trip from California back to Canada, touching on three different continents. The new Grand Horizons itinerary, which the company will introduce in 2026, will last 24 days
Initial autopsy results showed traces of cyanide in the blood of six Vietnamese and American guests at a luxury hotel in central Bangkok and one of them is believed to have poisoned the others over a bad investment, Thai authorities said Wednesday. The bodies were found Tuesday
I didn’t mean to hire a Vietnamese travel agency to plan our three-week family adventure. In fact, when the agency asked if they could create an itinerary for our trip to Vietnam beyond a single tour, I scoffed. "No way, I always make my own arrangements,” I thought. But I found
Vietnam offers great travel value in 2024, with affordable costs for living, dining, and accommodations. The country is considered one of the safest and most welcoming for American visitors, with plenty of natural beauty. Proper planning is crucial when visiting Vietnam
FRAMINGHAM, MA, May 6, 2024 – The Travel Institute has released its newly created Vietnam Destination Specialist Course as traveler demand for the scenic, well-preserved, and culturally rich destination continues to
Right away, I notice the smells. Jackfruit in the sun. The woody spice of cloves. Star anise in a pot of steaming pho. It’s springtime in Hanoi, and the flame trees are in fragrant, coral bloom. Vendors pile bushels of lotus flowers onto their three-wheeled rickshaws and
As you plan your travel itinerary for 2024, consider venturing beyond the well-trodden tourist paths and exploring the lesser-known wonders of Australia and Vietnam. These countries offer a wealth of hidden gems waiting to be discovered, promising unique experiences and unforgettable memories for those willing to seek them out
Zhang Xiuqiang, 52, has been charged with stealing $23,000 in cash from bags belonging to three of his fellow passengers aboard a Scoot Airline flight from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, to Singapore
I wanted a place with great weather, interesting culture, fantastic food and friendly people — and with plenty to see in a week. So I picked Vietnam, traveling from Ho Chi Minh City through the Mekong Delta area and on to Phu Quoc, an island in the Gulf of Thailand. I’d been
Asia is full of so many amazing destinations that it’s hard to choose one when looking for a vacation on this side of the globe. Many opt for the cultural paradise of Thailand, while some go more off the grid, such as Vietnam. Wherever you decide to go in Asia, you really can’t go
Ho Chi Minh City in the south of Vietnam is the nation’s economic capital and a dizzying whirlwind of activity. Formerly known as Saigon, the sprawling city balances Vietnamese tradition with a modern flair. Wandering the streets, you’ll find ancient pagodas mixed amongst
Having gotten used to meticulously mapping out an itinerary prior to a trip, usually cramming it with activities and so much sightseeing there is barely room left to breathe, I often looked down on others who sought relaxation alone visiting Vietnam. I wasn’t exactly keen on
This week in travel news: High-altitude accommodation in Vietnam, the longest bicycle tunnel in the world, and a new museum dedicated to Amelia Earhart
The Southeast Asian nation of Vietnam is where oriental wonders might be at their peak, thanks to its rich culture and stunning natural wonders. The country teems with culture and heritage, and it is home to six cultural UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nature lovers will also
Captain Hugh Thompson, Jr. was a United States Army helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War. On the morning of March 16th, 1968, he flew his helicopter over a small village in Vietnam the soldiers referred to as "Pinkville"
Between the cities of Huntington Beach and Irvine, Little Saigon boasts the largest Vietnamese American population outside of Vietnam itself. This thriving community—which has over 200,000 residents—formed shortly after the Fall of Saigon and the official end of the Vietnam War in 1975
The inaugural season for the newest Viking river ship is underway in southeast Asia. The 15-day itinerary takes guests between Kampong Cham, Cambodia and Mỹ Tho, Vietnam. The Viking Saigon is an 80-guest ship purpose-built for the Mekong River. “The fascinating cultures of
One of Anthony Bourdain's favorite countries -- he said his first trip there was "life-changing" -- Vietnam also represents one of Asia's best value destinations. Now that the country has relaxed arrival rules for international travelers, visitors are beginning to return. The hospitality industry is
Good news continues to pour in for Pandaw River Expeditions. The popular expeditionary river cruise operator has announced that due the popularity of their Vietnam Red River and Halong Bay itineraries they are building a new vessel to be named RV Song Hong
In this week's travel news roundup, CNN Travel looks at space hotels through the ages, Sicily's new "Little America" and a new glass-bottomed bridge in Vietnam.
Travelers say they feel safer in South Korea, Singapore, Thailand, Japan, China and Vietnam, according to a 2022 report by Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection.
Captain Hugh Thompson, Jr. was a United States Army helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War. On the morning of March 16th, 1968, he flew his helicopter over a small village in Vietnam the soldiers referred to as "Pinkville" but the locals knew as My Lai.
Vietnam's tourism ministry on Tuesday proposed a full reopening of the country to foreign visitors and a lifting of nearly all travel restrictions from March 15, three months earlier than planned.
Vietnam Airlines has launched its first nonstop flight to the U.S. On Nov. 28th, the flight from Ho Chi Minh City arrived at San Francisco International Airport at 6:42 p.m. The inaugural trip from Ho Chi Minh City to San Francisco
IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world's leading hotel companies and MIK GROUP, a leading real estate & hospitality group in Vietnam, have officially opened the new-built 308-room Crowne Plaza Phu Quoc Starbay resort on Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam
Vietnam Airlines has touched down in the United States for the first time. The inaugural flight, VN98, from Ho Chi Minh City to San Francisco, carried passengers on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has granted Vietnam Airlines clearance to operate scheduled commercial flights from Vietnam to the US, the carrier announced Monday
Vietnam is planning to reopen key tourist destinations to vaccinated visitors from countries deemed a low COVID-19 risk from December, the government said on Wednesday, October 6, ahead of a full resumption targeted for June next year.
Vietnam plans to reopen the beach-fringed island of Phu Quoc to foreign tourists from next month, authorities said, as the country looks at ways to revive an economy suffering from extended lockdowns due to the coronavirus pandemic
Captain Hugh Thompson, Jr. was a United States Army helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War. On the morning of March 16th, 1968, he flew his helicopter over a small village in Vietnam the soldiers referred to as "Pinkville" but the locals knew as My Lai. On the ground below him, he witnessed American soldiers killing old men, and women and children being held in a ditch. Landing his craft, Thompson approched the ground commander, Lt. William Calley, who indicated he was following orders. Thompson took off again, but landed
The number of Vietnamese exploring caves in Quang Binh Province, dubbed the 'Kingdom of Caves', last year reached record highs amid the Covid-19 pandemic, tour operator Oxalis reports
Are you a coffee addict with a penchant for travel? Then you’ve come to the right place! From elegant Italian coffee bars and a one-of-a-kind coffee town in Brazil to Vietnamese trendy coffee shops
The best pockets of recovery are domestic travel in Taiwan, Thailand and increasingly, Vietnam, said John Brown of Agoda, a subsidiary of Booking Holdings.
If 2020 is the lost year for travel, will 2021 be the year of recovery? And if it is, what does that mean for you? "I want to travel as much as I can," says Gregg Jaden, a photographer based in Manhattan Beach, Calif. "I will be spending more time in Indonesia, Vietnam and Thailand to make up for lost time."
Vietnam will evacuate more than 80,000 people from the central tourist region of Da Nang on Monday after three local residents tested positive for COVID-19.
The world's first gold-plated hotel which features golden cutlery, cups, toilet seat and an infinity pool has given the word 'extravagant' a new meaning.
A planeful of Japanese business travelers landed in Vietnam on June 25, marking the first flight between the two countries since they imposed border restrictions in a bid to stop the spread of coronavirus.
Japan plans to ease its coronavirus travel restrictions by letting in up to around 250 foreign travelers per day from Australia, New Zealand, Thailand and Vietnam, government sources say.
Amid the global Covid-19 pandemic, people around the world are wondering when life will return to "normal." The word normal is, of course, relative, but a spate of domestic flight routes slowly opening up in Asia and the Pacific give clues into what the aviation industry could look like in the weeks and months ahead. China, Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand and Australia are among the countries set to resume or
I read Jupiter’s Travels while living in Cambodia. Ted Simon’s tales of his motorcycle adventure around the world is so thrilling and adventurous that I immediately went out and bought an old Honda. I dreamed of following in his tyre tracks and travelling around the world, being welcomed as a hero everywhere I’d go. I didn’t get very far – the Vietnamese authorities wouldn’t allow the bike over the
Captain Hugh Thompson, Jr. was a United States Army helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War. On the morning of March 16th, 1968, he flew his helicopter over a small village in Vietnam the soldiers referred to as "Pinkville" but the locals knew as My Lai. On the ground below him, he witnessed American soldiers killing old men, and
Yoga studio owner Meg Alexander wouldn’t normally describe herself as a daredevil. At home in Toronto, she says the riskiest thing she gets up to is occasionally jumping on the streetcar without tapping her Presto card, but on holidays in Vietnam in 2014, she thought nothing of
Known amongst travelers with discerning tastes for its white-sand beaches, resorts, and palm-lined southwest coast, Phu Quoc island in Vietnam is an idyllic escape for those looking to enjoy some of life’s simple pleasures. Visitors to this stunning island gem can explore its tropical jungle, bustling night markets, kayak in the bays or simply spend lazy days on the beach drinking from a
The Cold War, or the “war that wasn’t,” lasted from 1947 to 1991. The two main powers, the United States and the USSR, never actually attacked each other—instead, they flexed their muscles to intimidate one another, causing events like the arms race and the space race, and spurring proxy wars like the Vietnam War and the Korean War. Nevertheless, the two
Mekong River cruises are booming, particularly in Cambodia and Vietnam. In 2020, at least 10 river boats — some quite luxurious — will cruise the lush and navigable lower Mekong. Most resemble the river boats of Europe, staffed with chefs who prepare authentic regional fare and local guides who share cultural histories as well as personal stories. Cruising the
If you live with a chronic illness, there’s no such thing as taking a vacation from looking after yourself—even when you’re, you know, actually on vacation. I say this as someone who’s been traveling with type 1 diabetes for 21 years (I was diagnosed at age 7), taking incredible trips from Vietnam to Italy to Nicaragua and more. No doubt, being diabetic means you’re going to be traveling with some
Filled with diverse landscapes that range from jam-packed cities to seemingly never-ending ocean views, Vietnam has so much to offer. Often overshadowed by its more popular neighbors Thailand and Cambodia, Vietnam is known for its flavorful cuisine and breathtaking temples, yet somehow it’s not at the top of many Black travelers bucket lists. However, as travel to SEAsia grows more and more popular
When it comes to variety, Vietnam is in a league of its own. A trip to the capital, Hanoi, will be wildly different than modern Ho Chi Minh City, just as the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An vary dramatically from the nearby citadels of Hue. Then there are the tea plantations, coffee farms, stunning bays, caves and coastlines -- all promising distinct adventures. Lest
Once a sleepy town famous for its rice terraces and ethnic tribal cultures, Sapa -- a five-hour drive from Hanoi -- has grown in recent years to become one of the hottest tourist destinations in Vietnam. With a population of less than 140,000, the area welcomed more than 1.6 million visitors in the first half of 2019 -- accounting for 57% of tourists visiting the entire Lao Cai province
Secret gardens, multicultural cuisine, and futuristic vibes are only some of the reasons why Singapore has long been a hotspot amongst Black travelers. Though the island city-state off southern Malaysia isn’t as backpacker friendly as some of its popular cousins like Thailand and Vietnam, its Crazy Rich Asians vibes keep people coming back for more. The biggest draw of Singapore? The chance to take in sky-high views
Fed up of constant job rejections, 29-year-old Craig Kingston decided he need to do something drastic. So the South Florida native quit the nine to five role he hated, booked a one way ticket to Vietnam and sold all his stuff. But he wasn't quite
Two walls have brought me to tears. They are on opposite sides of the world, 8,600 miles apart. Both are filled with names of people I never knew but who have helped shaped the person I have become. The first of those walls is the Vietnam Veteran's Memorial in Washington, DC, where 140 black granite panels are etched
Vietnam is home to some 2,030 miles of beautiful coastline and hundreds of islands. But one in particular is well on its way to contending with beach giants such as Phuket or Bali. Phu Quoc, a 222-square-mile island in the Gulf of Thailand, has welcomed rapid development and an ever-increasing list of direct flight connections. Visitor numbers have grown in
You won’t bump your head in the caves of central Vietnam’s Quang Binh province. Not when they’re big enough to fit a 40-storey building. Three of the world’s four biggest caves are in this skinniest part of the slender nation. Hundreds of other limestone caves housing deep grottoes and underground rivers are here too, with new caverns discovered every
Cruising Halong Bay has long been one of the top things to do when visiting Vietnam. And now tourists have a new way to experience the dazzling natural attraction. Northern Vietnam Helicopter Company, a subsidiary of state-owned helicopter operator Vietnam Helicopter Corporation, has launched a series of tourism flights over the scenic Halong Bay area. Added
The Asian nation is a hot spot of biological diversity, but local and international conservation groups are struggling to halt what amounts to animal genocide.
Just a one-hour flight south of Hanoi, Da Nang offers easy access to the UNESCO-listed Hoi An Ancient Town, addictive banh mi and some of the best beaches in Vietnam. The InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort features 201 pavilion-like hotel rooms and villas scattered throughout the forested hillsides
The galaxy of five-star hospitality added several new constellations this year as Forbes Travel Guide announced its 2019 Star Award winners—the 61st annual list of the world’s finest hotels, restaurants and spas. In rating the most luxurious locales this year, Forbes Travel Guide explored many new destinations—from Anguilla, Bahrain, Belize and Doha to Hanoi, Istanbul, Oman
A river cruise along the exotic Mekong through Vietnam and Cambodia is a feast for all the senses, not least the palate. As well as serving regional cuisine on board (chopsticks optional), cruise lines offer a tempting array of foodie shore excursions.
Gone are the days when polite travelers would avoid walking in front of people so as not to get in their vacation snap -- now, it's all about not walking behind people to ruin their selfies. Few places have selfie culture more on display than Hanoi, Vietnam, where the mix of old and new provides a fascinating photo backdrop for visitors. Hanoi's "selfie street"
With its pastel-hued shop houses, labyrinthine lanes and impenetrable swarms of motorbikes, the Old Quarter is among the most-visited areas of Hanoi, Vietnam. It's here where you'll find Hanoi Opera House, Hoan Kiem Lake and the National Museum of Vietnamese History -- not to mention a maze of guild streets. Though you could easily
Best Western Hotels & Resorts has signed a deal to open an upscale hotel overlooking Ha Long Bay, the UNESCO World Heritage site in Vietnam. Developed by Doji Land Real Estate Investment Company Ltd., the Best Western Premier Sapphire Ha Long is a new-build, 31-story project
Anthony Bourdain traveled to the far corners of the world for his show Parts Unknown, and one of his most memorable trips was the one he took to Vietnam. Diep Nguyen, a Vietnam travel expert for vacation company Exotic Voyages, worked with Bourdain and his crew the last time he traveled to Northern Vietnam in 2016. She wanted to pay tribute to the late chef and author,
A golden bridge held up by two enormous stone-coloured hands has opened in the Ba Na hills, near Da Nang in central Vietnam. It is the latest in a series of statement footbridges around the world. Cau Vang (meaning gold bridge) opened in June, is 150 metres long and 1,400 metres above sea level, with views across the green mountainscape. It took just under a year to
A golden bridge held up by two enormous stone-coloured hands has opened in the Ba Na hills, near Da Nang in central Vietnam. It is the latest in a series of statement footbridges around the world. Cau Vang (meaning gold bridge) opened in June, is 150 metres long and 1,400 metres above sea level, with views across the green mountainscape. It took just under a
I’m in Hoi An, the so-called tailoring capital of Vietnam, where hundreds of shops line the noisy, motorbike-laden streets, vying for the dongs and dollars of tourists keen fill their wardrobes with hand-tailored clothes. Here, talented craftsmen can stitch up custom-made garments, from a bespoke two-piece suit or to a copy of an Victoria Beckham dress, designing every
It started out—like so many failed things do—as a beautiful dream: a sprawling wonderland at the edge of a lake, a hedonistic playground the likes of which the area had never seen. Outside the confines of the city and everyday reality, the park would be a beacon of joy and whimsy, drawing visitors from near and far with its epic grandeur.
If a Harley Davidson is said to throb to the rhythm of the human heartbeat, then the guttural barking of a classic Russian Ural motorbike is probably what a coronary feels like. The analogy came to mind as I rattled through the clogged arteries of Hanoi's Old Quarter in the sidecar of a 50-year-old Iron Curtain motorbike.
The first thing you’ll notice about Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is the traffic – horns blare as the locals zip past on a seemingly endless fleet of scooters, while tour buses barrel in carrying a steady flow of tourists, ready to lap up the sights and sounds of this vibrant city.
Journey by bicycle and boat from Siem Reap, Cambodia, to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, on a new 11-day tour offered by Grasshopper Adventures. Mornings will be spent on bike touring mostly flat terrain, while afternoons are spent cruising the Mekong River on a 10-cabin riverboat. Highlights include exploring Angkor Wat in Cambodia, cycling through villages, with opportunities to meet local people; participating in a rice-wine tasting and walking through Ho Chi Minh City's former French Quarter.
Captain Hugh Thompson, Jr. was a United States Army helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War. On the morning of March 16th, 1968 he flew his helicopter over a small village in Vietnam the soldiers referred to as "Pinkville" but the locals knew as My Lai.
“Recently, I heard that up until 12 years ago, some people here used to pay for things with rice,” Michael Rowbottom told the twenty of us seated in front of him.
Phu Quoc (pronounced "foo kwok") - an unassuming Vietnamese island sitting pretty just off the coast of Cambodia - is one of south-east Asia's best-kept secrets
I had applied for a spot on an expedition to Hang Sơn Đoòng; the world’s largest cave. Located deep inside the Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park in North Central Vietnam, Sơn Đoòng was first discovered in 1991
If you think you’ve already checked off the best of Asia, think again. Bali, Thailand and Vietnam don’t rate a mention in the latest “Best in Asia” list from Lonely Planet, which highlights the continent’s 10 best destinations to visit over the next 12 months
From laksa, a coconut-laced Peranakan noodle soup and aromatic Vietnamese rice rolls, to comforting yum cha or satay, the list of Asian dishes to try is endless - a clear reflection of its diversity
Captain Hugh Thompson, Jr. was a United States Army helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War. On the morning of March 16th, 1968, he flew his helicopter over a small village
Carnival Cruise Line is planning a voyage from Sydney to Singapore, which will include the company's first calls to Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam and Ko Samui in Thailand, as well as several cruises from China. On sale now, the 19-night cruise aboard Carnival Spirit departs 3 May 2018 and also calls at Bali in Indonesia and Airlie Beach and Darwin in Australia
In May this year, my wife and I travelled to SE Asia for a month, part of which included a stop in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) has a population of 12 million and 7 million motorbikes – most of which seemed to be on the road at one time! We decided that the best way to see the city was to join the locals and get on the back of one of these bikes – organized through XO Tours who operate a motorbike service entirely run by Vietnamese ladies
The Vietnamese port city of My Tho sits on one of the Nine Dragons, narrow branches that the Mekong fans into near its mouth. It’s almost a two-hour drive across the delta from the bustling urban sprawl of Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), where we’d landed that morning
It's dark outside, the Vietnamese city of Nha Trang is quiet for a Sunday, but the train station is a picture of chaos. Plastic tartan bags, cheap suitcases and boxes reinforced with masking tape have been dumped unceremoniously on the platform. Waiting room television screens rival each other for volume. Makeshift stalls selling travel essentials –Coke, beer, bananas and over-packaged biscuits and noodles – do a peak-time trade
Hoi An's UNESCO heritage-listed old town with a wonderfully ancient Japanese Bridge as its centrepiece, was miraculously untouched by the Vietnam-American War. What survives is a living museum of traditional early 19th century architecture and some. It's mostly closed to motorised traffic leaving pedestrians to wander carefree along serene lantern-lit streets. Alongside the old town, the Thu Bon River and its islands provide tranquil terrain to explore by boat and bike. Ten minutes out of town there are beaches to relax on
Daring air passengers have been known to smuggle many odd things in and out of airports. But customs officials in Vietnam were surprised to discover what one passenger was hiding in his trousers on Monday. The man was caught at Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City allegedly trying to illegally smuggle live birds — including endangered species — to Taiwan by strapping them to his legs inside his pants and attempting to board an aircraft
Dalat, Vietnam, is, essentially, a city. But when I went to shoot it for the 52 Places to Go feature, I wanted to give the reader a view onto the countryside that exists not so far from the city center
Australia-based cruise line Coral Expeditions has announced its inaugural season in Asia, which will be offered on its flagship, Coral Discoverer, after a major refurbishment. Seven expeditions will be undertaken from November 2016 to February 2017, charting the coastlines of Myanmar, Cambodia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia
Despite being a quick 45-minute turboprop flight from Ho Chi Minh City, Con Son is a world away from Vietnam's well-beaten tourist trail, with inexplicably few Western travellers
There is no frantic buzz of helicopter rotor blades above 22 Ly Tu Trong Street today, no lengthy queue of frightened people, and definitely no hint of eras coming to violent ends
Anthony Bourdain visits the city of Hue in central Vietnam in the next episode of "Parts Unknown." Bustling Dong Ba Market offers an up-close look at the city’s daily dealings
