Vietnam Travel Guide

As a long skinny country, Vietnam has a varied climate for different regions:

In the north, from Hanoi to Hue, there are 4 seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter.

In the central region and the south: from Hoian to Mekong Delta, sunshine lasts throughout the year, except for the months of November and December when heavy rainfalls occur. Dalat, at an altitude of 1500m, is cooler than the coastal area, particularly from November to March. Sometimes from July to September experience typhoon activity from mid-October to mid-December when the climate becomes a bit cooler, more overcast, and wet.

From Ho Chi Minh City to Phan Thiet, there are two main seasons: wet and dry. The wet season falls between April and September, with sudden heavy showers that don’t last very long. The dry season spans the months of October to March, with higher temperatures and long days of sunshine, followed by cooler nights.

The unit of currency in Vietnam is Vietnamese Dong (VND). If you need some local money to pay for taxi fare, you can exchange some amount in Hanoi airport though the exchange rate is not very good in comparison with the ones in the city. 

In the city like Hanoi, you can change in Vietcombank or go directly to Gold & Jewlery shops, you can fast exchange USD to VND with good exchange rate.  

Tips : Vietnamese banknotes are issued in 1,000 VND, 2,000 VND, 5,000 VND, 10,000 VND, 20,000 VND, 50,000 VND, 100,000 VND, 200,000 VND & 500,000 VND. Be careful not to mistake the banknotes: 20,000 VND & 500,000 VND because they look quite similar.

– Local SIM Card: Purchasing a local SIM card is a popular choice for travelers in Vietnam. You can buy a SIM card from various mobile network providers such as Viettel, Vinaphone, or Mobifone at their official stores, kiosks, or even at the airport upon arrival. You will need to present your passport for registration. The SIM card will come with a certain amount of preloaded data, and you can add more data by purchasing top-up cards or using mobile apps provided by the network operators.

– Data Packages: Once you have a local SIM card, you can choose from a range of data packages offered by the network providers. These packages typically vary in terms of data allowance, validity period, and price. You can select a package that suits your data usage needs and duration of stay. The options may include daily, weekly, or monthly packages.

– Mobile Network Providers: The major mobile network providers in Vietnam include Viettel, Vinaphone, Mobifone, and Vietnamobile. Each provider has its own coverage, pricing, and data packages. It’s advisable to compare the offerings to find the best plan for your needs. You can visit the providers’ websites or inquire at their stores for detailed information on available plans and rates.

It’s also worth noting that free Wi-Fi is commonly available in many hotels, restaurants, cafes, and public areas in Vietnam. However, having a mobile data plan provides you with greater flexibility and accessibility throughout your travels.

While Vietnam is generally a safe and welcoming country for travelers, it’s always important to be aware of potential scams that can occur in any destination. Here are some common scams to be cautious of when traveling to Vietnam:

• Taxi and Motorbike Scams: Some drivers may try to overcharge you by not using the meter or taking longer routes. To avoid this, always insist on using the meter or agree on a price before the journey. It’s also advisable to use reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing apps like Grab.
• Fake Tour Operators: Some may offer incredibly low prices but provide substandard services or even disappear with your money. It’s best to book tours through reputable travel agencies or your hotel. Read reviews and do research before making any bookings.
• Street Vendors and Restaurants: While most street vendors and restaurants in Vietnam are honest, some may overcharge or provide incorrect change. Always check prices before ordering and count your change carefully. 
• Money Exchange Scams: Use authorized money exchange services or banks to exchange your currency into Vietnamese dong. Be cautious of unauthorized street money changers who may offer better rates but can give you counterfeit money or shortchange you. 
• Motorbike Rental Scams: If you plan to rent a motorbike, be cautious of rental companies that may try to charge you for pre-existing damage or claim that you caused damage to the bike. Take photos of the bike before renting it and review the rental agreement carefully. 
• Hotel Scams: Be cautious of individuals posing as hotel staff or claiming that your hotel is fully booked. They may try to redirect you to another, often inferior, hotel where they receive a commission. Always verify with the hotel directly if you encounter such situations.
• Pickpocketing and Bag Snatching: Be cautious of your belongings to avoid pickpocketing or bag snatching incidents. Keep your valuables secure, use a money belt or a cross-body bag, and be vigilant in crowded places, markets, and public transportation.