Coming to Vietnam, visitors have the opportunity to experience many interesting activities such as climbing, scuba diving or sunbathing on long, fine sands ... Therefore, this is always a destination that attracts a large number of tourists from all over the world. However, to get the most perfect experience, keep the following in mind:
1. Bring climate-appropriate items
Perhaps the most important thing to consider when planning a trip to Vietnam is the weather. The south of the country is located in the humid tropics but the climate becomes increasingly mild as you travel north, the mountains of the East and Northwest are very cold in winter. If you plan to visit both halves of the country, prepare appropriate attire.
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2. Get ready for rain
Vietnam is affected by the Southwest monsoon from May to September and the Northeast monsoon from October to April, so check the weather in the areas you plan to visit. Rain in Vietnam is usually intermittent, it does not rain all day, so bring a raincoat or umbrella when going out.
3. Prepare well for health
Like anywhere in the tropics, in Vietnam there are tropical diseases to watch out for such as malaria, flu ... Therefore, before coming to Vietnam, please prepare your health, fully vaccinate and prepare some medicines for basic diseases, mosquito spray, hand sanitizer, medical masks ...
Photo: Hoang Nuoc
4. Book before Tet and peak tourist season
Booking transportation, accommodation and tours in advance is not necessary but it is a good way to avoid disappointment if you come to Vietnam during Lunar New Year or peak tourist season like May 7 or 8 in the central coast.
5. Use coaches and sleeper trains in your itinerary
Domestic flights in Vietnam are cheap but there are many less polluting alternatives. When planning long-distance travel, don't overlook the country's overnight trains and coaches – you'll save on overnight accommodation costs and travel long distances without spending a lot of sightseeing time.
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6. Take a walk along Vietnam
Vietnam is 1,650km long from the Chinese border in the north to the Mekong Delta in the south, so you will need plenty of time to explore the country. If you only have short time, focus your itinerary on a small area – such as Hanoi and surrounding areas or Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) and the Mekong Delta.
Photo: Hoa Lo Prison Fb
7. Respect for religious space
When visiting temples, shrines, churches and other religious buildings, dress respectfully, politely, preferably cover your legs and biceps and may have to take off your shoes and hat to enter.
8. Bargain civilly
Bargaining is nothing new, especially at markets or souvenir shops, you may have to pay a price to be more consistent. However, make sure that this is a civilized negotiation, pro-buy and sell. If you do not receive the desired price, politely decline and leave.
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9. Responsible Procurement
Vietnam has several types of crafts and arts that can create wonderful souvenirs that are culturally imbued but still relevant to modern life. However, you need to understand the regulations, taking antiques out of the country is illegal. In addition, you should also be careful with souvenirs made from animal parts as these items are often taken from wild animals that get you into trouble.
10. Always stay calm
Pickpockets and handbag snatching are not Vietnam's only problem. So when traveling, watch your belongings carefully, do not walk on the street while using your phone, backpacks will be a better choice than crossbody bags.
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11. Survival skills
Vietnam regularly suffers from typhoons from May 5 to November, the highest risk of typhoons from August to September. If you're traveling during hurricane season, keep an eye on local weather forecasts. In case of flooding, contact your embassy or consulate and follow advice from local authorities.
According to Lonely Planet