Vietnam

Vietnam offers a stunning array of attractions that stretch from dramatic limestone landscapes in the north to tropical beaches in the south. One of the most iconic destinations is Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its emerald waters and towering limestone islands. Travelers can enjoy boat cruises, kayaking, and overnight stays on traditional junks. In the north, the mountainous region of Sapa provides a spectacular backdrop for trekking through rice terraces and meeting hill tribe communities. The capital city, Hanoi, delights visitors with its blend of French colonial architecture, bustling Old Quarter, and cultural landmarks like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature. Moving southward, the historic town of Hoi An enchants travelers with its lantern-lit streets, preserved ancient buildings, and tailor shops. In central Vietnam, the ancient imperial city of Hue reveals palaces, tombs, and pagodas that speak to its royal past. Further south, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) pulsates with energy, offering an eclectic mix of historical landmarks such as the War Remnants Museum and modern rooftop bars. For beach lovers, Da Nang and Nha Trang provide beautiful coastlines, while the Mekong Delta in the far south offers serene boat rides through water coconut groves and floating markets.

Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated for its balance of flavors, use of fresh herbs, and regional diversity. Pho, the world-renowned noodle soup, is typically eaten for breakfast and varies by region—Hanoi’s version is subtle and clear while Saigon’s is sweeter and more herb-laden. Banh mi, a French-influenced baguette sandwich stuffed with meats, pickled vegetables, and pâté, makes a satisfying street food snack. In the central regions, travelers can sample Bun bo Hue, a spicy beef noodle soup that differs from Pho with its richer broth and thicker noodles. Hoi An is the birthplace of Cao Lau, a dish featuring chewy noodles, sliced pork, croutons, and local greens. For something unique, try Goi cuon—fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, pork, herbs, and rice noodles wrapped in translucent rice paper. In the south, broken rice (Com tam) served with grilled pork and egg, and Hu Tieu noodle soups are beloved staples. Street food stalls and night markets across the country offer an affordable and delicious way to sample local flavors.

Traveling around Vietnam is relatively affordable and accessible, but it’s helpful to understand the best modes of transport for each region. Domestic flights are often the fastest option for covering long distances—such as from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City—and local carriers like VietJet and Vietnam Airlines offer frequent and inexpensive options. Trains are a scenic and slower alternative, especially on the Reunification Express line that runs from north to south. In cities, Grab (a rideshare app similar to Uber) is the safest and easiest way to hail a motorbike taxi or car, though traditional taxis are also available. Public buses exist but can be confusing to navigate due to language barriers. For rural areas or towns, renting a motorbike is a common and liberating option, but requires experience and caution due to chaotic traffic and road conditions. Travelers can also use long-distance sleeper buses between major cities, though comfort levels vary and safety standards can be inconsistent.

Vietnam is a very budget-friendly destination where even backpackers can travel comfortably. Street food is not only delicious but also extremely affordable, with meals often costing just a couple of dollars. Hostels and budget guesthouses are widely available and offer clean, basic accommodations starting at under $10 per night. Markets and small shops often allow bargaining, so it pays to negotiate respectfully. In cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, free walking tours led by local university students offer cultural insight with no cost beyond a tip. Attractions like museums, temples, and heritage sites usually charge a modest entrance fee, making cultural exploration accessible. To save on transportation, take overnight buses or trains to avoid paying for an extra night’s lodging. Booking tours for Ha Long Bay or the Mekong Delta as part of a small group instead of privately can also keep costs down while still providing a rich experience.

Vietnam is generally safe for travelers, with relatively low crime rates and friendly locals. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in busy areas, so it’s wise to keep valuables secure and avoid flashing expensive items. Be cautious when crossing roads, especially in major cities, where traffic is chaotic and pedestrian rules are loosely observed. Food hygiene is usually acceptable at busy street stalls, but travelers should avoid drinking tap water and instead opt for bottled or filtered water. Natural hazards such as flooding or typhoons can affect central and southern regions, particularly between August and October. Scams targeting tourists, like inflated prices or counterfeit tours, are not uncommon, so verify bookings with reputable providers and clarify costs upfront. Overall, staying alert and using common sense is usually sufficient to ensure a safe trip.

Vietnamese culture places a strong emphasis on respect, especially toward elders and authority figures. When greeting others, a slight bow or nod is customary, and shaking hands is also acceptable, especially in business settings. Dress modestly when visiting temples, pagodas, or rural villages, covering shoulders and knees. Removing shoes before entering someone’s home or certain temples is expected. Avoid public displays of affection and loud behavior, as these can be seen as disrespectful. It’s polite to accept gifts or items with both hands and avoid touching someone’s head, which is considered sacred. Learning a few Vietnamese phrases, such as “Xin chào” (hello) or “Cảm ơn” (thank you), goes a long way in building rapport and showing respect.

Vietnam is a rewarding destination for a wide range of travelers. Budget backpackers will find it incredibly affordable and full of social hostels and street food delights. Mid-range travelers can enjoy comfortable boutique hotels, immersive cultural experiences, and easy intercity connections without splurging. Luxury travelers will appreciate five-star service in historic properties and secluded beachfront resorts. It’s also a great fit for slow travelers who wish to explore regional differences at a relaxed pace. Families will enjoy Vietnam’s kid-friendly culture and outdoor adventures, while digital nomads can base themselves in cities like Da Nang or Ho Chi Minh City with reliable Wi-Fi and coworking options. Whether you’re seeking history, adventure, cuisine, or coastline, Vietnam delivers it all with warmth, color, and unforgettable flavor.

For low-budget travelers, hostels like The Hideout in Ho Chi Minh City and Little Charm Hanoi Hostel provide social atmospheres, clean dorm rooms, and free walking tours at affordable rates. Travelers who seek more comfort without breaking the bank will find great value in boutique hotels such as La Siesta Hotel in Hanoi or Vinh Hung Library Hotel in Hoi An, which blend charm with amenities like breakfast and airport transfers. Luxury travelers can immerse themselves in elegance at places like The Reverie Saigon, an opulent five-star property in Ho Chi Minh City, or the InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, set dramatically on a hillside overlooking the sea.

Many travelers make the mistake of underestimating travel time within Vietnam, assuming that short distances mean quick journeys—but the infrastructure and traffic can significantly slow down transit, especially by road. Another common mistake is not checking the reputation or licensing of tour operators, particularly for excursions to Ha Long Bay, which has had issues with unlicensed or poorly maintained boats. Some tourists fall into the trap of only eating at hotel restaurants or touristy spots and miss out on the rich flavors and value of authentic street food. Additionally, travelers sometimes forget to dress appropriately when visiting religious sites, which can cause offense and deny them entry.

Grab is a must-have ride-hailing app that works across the country and is more reliable than traditional taxis. Google Maps is helpful for walking directions but not always accurate for driving routes in rural areas. For language translation, Google Translate with offline Vietnamese downloaded is a useful companion. Currency conversion apps like XE Currency are essential for managing large denomination notes. Booking.com and Agoda work well for accommodations, while Klook and GetYourGuide offer vetted tours and experiences across Vietnam. Wi-Fi is widely available in cities, but travelers venturing to remote areas may want to get a local SIM card (Viettel or Vinaphone are good options) for coverage and data.

For travelers on a short trip, a 10-day itinerary might include landing in Hanoi, spending a night cruise in Ha Long Bay, continuing to Hoi An for three days of culture and beaches, and finishing with two days in Ho Chi Minh City. Those with two weeks can add a night or two in Hue and perhaps a detour to the Mekong Delta for river exploration. Adventure-focused travelers may prioritize time in Sapa for trekking, Phong Nha for caving, and Da Lat for canyoning. Foodies will want to explore street food markets in Hanoi, Hue’s royal cuisine, and Saigon’s café culture, perhaps even booking cooking classes in Hoi An.

Vietnam is one of the world’s leading exporters of coffee, second only to Brazil. It’s famous for its robusta beans, which are typically used to brew the strong and sweet Vietnamese iced coffee (cà phê sữa đá). The country has a rich culinary heritage shaped by Chinese and French influences, resulting in a unique fusion of flavors. Vietnam is also home to one of the world’s largest caves, Hang Son Doong, located in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park—it’s so large that it has its own weather system. The traffic in Ho Chi Minh City is so famously hectic that crossing the street is often described as a game of “human Frogger,” and learning to do it confidently is a rite of passage for tourists.