All you need to know about Vietnam: the Land of the Blue Dragon

Here are a few stats and tips that we picked up in our time here. Let us know if there is anything we should add!

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* We will be updating this section with a new format soon

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Total Population: 97.4 million

Capital City: Hanoi (6.4 million)

Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)

Driving: Right Side

Measurement Standard: Metric (km)

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⪢ Visa Requirements

Check the visa requirements for your nationality before traveling to Vietnam. Some nationalities may require a visa to enter the country, while others may be eligible for visa exemptions or visa on arrival. For British and Canadian citizens, you can apply online, for up to 30 days visa-free single entry. 

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⪢ Weather and Climate

Vietnam has a diverse climate, varying from north to south. The weather can range from hot and humid in the south to cooler temperatures in the north. It's important to pack accordingly and be prepared for the weather conditions during your visit. 

The wet season lasts from May until early November with the months from June, July & August receiving the highest rainfall of the year. Throughout much of the wet season rainfall is generally heavy but does not usually last long. The best time to visit Vietnam is from March to April when rainfall is low and temperatures are milder.

⪢ Currency

The official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). It's advisable to carry some local currency for small expenses, but major credit cards are widely accepted in most tourist areas. Cash is one of the most popular payment methods in Vietnam however. Many businesses accept Visa or Mastercard but be prepared for contactless not to work. If you like to try street food, cash is a must. Convert your currency here.

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Speaking of cash, it is worth noting the extreme values of it. For example, at time of writing, $1 USD will get you around 24,000 Vietnamese Dong. To put that in perspective, the average coffee will set you back around 60k Dong. It does take a while to get used to all the zeros on everything!

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⪢ Language

The official language is Vietnamese. While English is spoken and understood in major tourist areas, it's useful to learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to help with communication, especially in rural areas.

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⪢ Transportation

Vietnam has various modes of transportation, including buses, trains, taxis, and motorbike taxis. Traffic can be chaotic in major cities, so exercise caution when crossing the roads. Ride-hailing apps like Grab are popular for convenient and safe transportation. 

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The sheer volume of motorcycles is something you should be very prepared for before visiting Vietnam. Crossing roads can be quite the challenge, so it is vital you keep your wits about you! Also you will hear honking a great deal here. Perhaps because of the sometimes erratic motorcycles, and blind spots, honking is used by drivers as a form of warning rather than as a sign of irritation. The use of indicators is also not very common, and bikes tend to overtake from any side, so using the horn has become the norm for road safety.

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⪢ Cultural Etiquette

Vietnamese people are generally polite and respectful. It's important to be aware of local customs and traditions. For example, it's customary to remove your shoes when entering someone's home or a place of worship. Shaking hands is typically the best way to meet and greet with the locals. A slight nod of the head is also a show of respect in Vietnam.

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Tipping is not mandatory in Vietnam, although it is gratefully accepted. Most restaurants include a service charge so do keep an eye out for that.

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Taking photos and videos is generally okay anywhere in Vietnam, however as with any country it is important to ask if you are filming someone or are in a sensitive area such as a shrine. Usually there are signs to let you know.

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⪢ Local Cuisine

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its delicious flavors and fresh ingredients. Don't miss out on trying iconic dishes like pho (noodle soup), banh mi (baguette sandwich), and spring rolls. Be adventurous and explore street food stalls, but make sure they have good hygiene practices. The most popular food / grocery delivery apps are Grab Food, Go-Food, Now-Shopee Food and Baemin.

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⪢ Bargaining

Haggling is definitely common in Vietnam and is even expected, especially at markets. Never feel bad at trying your hand at asking for a discount.

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⪢ Health and Safety

Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. It's advisable to drink bottled or filtered water, avoid street food with questionable hygiene, and use insect repellent to protect against mosquito-borne diseases. Tap water is not drinkable in Vietnam. It is strongly advised to use bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth.

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⪢ Dress Code

While Vietnam is becoming more modern, it's still a conservative country, particularly in rural areas and religious sites. Dress modestly and respectfully, covering your shoulders and knees, when visiting temples or pagodas.

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⪢ Local Customs

The Vietnamese people have a rich cultural heritage, and it's important to respect their customs and traditions. Avoid pointing at people with your finger, especially elders, and be mindful of showing public displays of affection.

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⪢ Places to Visit

Vietnam offers a plethora of attractions, including bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Ha Long Bay and Hoi An, and beautiful natural landscapes like Sapa and Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Research and plan your itinerary accordingly to make the most of your trip.

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⪢ Smoking

It is legal to smoke cigarettes in public spaces in general, and anywhere in the countryside in Vietnam. 

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⪢ Internet availability & Sim Cards

The system of WiFi availability in Vietnam is generally excellent. It is free in most bars, restaurants and hotels, and connects instantly without the need for passwords.

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Tourist sim cards are easy to get and are typically around $10 USD, or 240,000 Dong for one week with unlimited internet, calls and texts within Vietnam. We used Mobi Phone which we obtained directly from the airport.