travel blogger vietnam

Vietnam Travel Blog

So you are off to Vietnam! One of our favourite places in Asia and it will always remain a country that we return to time and time again!  

To help you prepare for your Vietnam holiday, you can read our pre-Vietnam travel advice post (which also contains info on popular places to visit in Vietnam), and then use our post on fun things to do in Vietnam .

Vietnam is a great destination for couples, friends or for families. Here is a list of the best places to see in Vietnam .

To get you in the mood for your trip, check out our suggestion of books to read .  You can read all our best posts in this Vietnam travel blog section.

Vietnam can be really rainy, so please check our post on the best time to visit Vietnam before booking your tickets.

Vietnam with Kids

Vietnam is an easy Asian country to travel to with kids.  

Vietnam holidays are pretty affordable (if not cheap) and it is easy to find drivers that can take you around to the popular Vietnam attractions.  

Many of the best attractions in Vietnam are outdoors which can make things much easier for travelling families.

There is a wide range of gorgeous family hotels in Vietnam; most of which offer swimming pools and kids’ clubs.

A holiday in Vietnam with kids might be a bit exotic, but it is a safe destination to visit and there are loads of learning experiences available for the kids.

Best Accommodation in Vietnam

If you are looking for the best accommodation in Vietnam, check out our guide to the best choices:

• Where to Stay in Vietnam
• Best Hoi An Hotels
• Where to Stay in Hanoi
• Best hotels in Sapa
• Which cruise is the best Halong Bay cruise ?  Click to find out.

Vietnam Tours

A lot of travellers feel more comfortable travelling around Vietnam on an organized tour.

If you prefer to visit Vietnam on an organized tour; we have compiled a list of the best tours of Vietnam .

Vietnam Transport Guides

For helpful information on how to get around on your Vietnam trip, click to read the guide below:

• How to get from Hanoi to Sapa (& vice versa)
• How to get from Danang to Hoi An (& vice versa)
• How to get from Hanoi to Hoi An (& vice versa)
• How to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay (& vice versa)
• How to get from Sapa to Halong Bay (& vice versa)

One-Page Guides to Help You Plan

Your quick guide to planning your trip to Hanoi .

Vietnam Itineraries

We want to share some fabulous Vietnam itineraries with you all. First one on our list:

• Vietnam in 5 Days – How to spend 5 days in either the North, the South or in central Vietnam.

Vietnam Travel Guides

You can read our guides to:

• Hanoi Travel Blog Posts
• Sapa Travel Blog Posts
• Halong Bay Travel Blog Posts
• Hoi An Travel Blog Posts
• HCMC Travel Blog Post
• Phu Quoc Travel Blog Post

Plan Your Trip to Vietnam

Here are some resources to help you plan your holiday in Vietnam.

• Vietnam Packing List

Accommodation in Vietnam: 

We always start our accommodation research with HotelsCombined.  

This site makes it super easy to compare accommodation across various booking engines so that you can simply pick the best price for the accommodation of your choice.

We also often book through sites such as Airbnb, especially when we travel in Europe as it allows for massive savings on accommodation.

We also recommend you book a cruise for both Halong Bay as well as Mekong River. You can find a selection of fabulous Mekong River cruises to book.

Flights to Vietnam

We personally book our flights on  Cheapo Air , we find that they are often the cheapest (even in comparison to  Skyscanner ).   Click to check on prices for your flights .

Travel Insurance

We never travel without  travel insurance with Safety Wing . We have claimed on our travel insurance more than once, claims that would have cost us A LOT out of our own pockets.  Don’t skimp out on insurance!! 

Safety Wing offers incredible plans and is one of the few insurance companies that allow you to grab insurance when you are already travelling!   Click to check on their plans and prices .

Find all of our Vie tnam Travel Blog Posts Below

Where to Stay in Hanoi Old Quarter: 15 of the Best Hotels

Are you looking for where to stay in Hanoi on your next visit? Our selection of the best hotels in Hanoi will guide you to … CONTINUE READING

7 Best Walking Tours in Hanoi (Old Quarter, Private, Food & More)

Have you been wondering which tour is the best walking tour in Hanoi? I’ve got you covered! Vietnam is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, … CONTINUE READING

15 Best Hotels in Sapa, Vietnam (2024)

If you are after the best hotels in Sapa Vietnam then you came to the right place! Here you can find the top 15 best … CONTINUE READING

The Ultimate Guide on How to get from Danang to Hoi An (& Vice Versa)

When traveling from Danang to Hoi An, in Vietnam, there are a few options you can choose. Those options are a private car, taxi, bus … CONTINUE READING

9 Halong Bay Cruise Reviews By Travel Bloggers (Which Is Best?)

I don’t see how you can go to Vietnam and not book in a cruise on Halong Bay. In my opinion, it is one of … CONTINUE READING

Vietnam Packing List [Travel Essentials & What to Pack for Vietnam]

Known for sparkling rivers, stunning beaches, and enchanting Buddhist pagodas, the South Asian country of Vietnam on the South China Sea attracts thousands of tourists … CONTINUE READING

16 of the Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise Recommendations in 2024!

Are you looking for the best Halong Bay cruise recommendation for your next holiday in Vietnam?Join in with thousands of happy travelers on a trip … CONTINUE READING

Adventure-Packed One Week in Vietnam Itinerary (North & South)

Are you wondering if it is possible to explore Vietnam in a week? If you are planning a trip to this marvellous country, you would … CONTINUE READING

5 Days In Vietnam Itineraries (North, Central & South Options)

Are 5 days in Vietnam enough for a tourist? What is the optimal Vietnam 5-day itinerary? Vietnam is fast becoming an incredible tourist destination! Located … CONTINUE READING

The Best Time To Go To Vietnam (North vs Central vs South)

If you want to go visit one of the most economical yet beautiful tropical nations on the planet, Vietnam should be on the top of … CONTINUE READING

10 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

Are you struggling to choose the best places to visit in Vietnam? Worry no more! We got you covered. The Southeast Asian country of Vietnam … CONTINUE READING

The Best Vietnam Tour Packages of 2024 | Adventure, Classic, Family & More!

Are you looking for the best Vietnam Tours 2024 has to offer? Wondering which of the Vietnam tour packages would suit you best for your … CONTINUE READING

How To Plan A Trip To Vietnam [Complete First-timer’s Guide!]

I think by now you all know that Vietnam is one of our favorite countries in the world! It is so naturally beautiful and culturally … CONTINUE READING

How To Get From Sapa to Halong Bay (& Vice Versa)

Are you wondering which are the best ways how to get from Sapa to Halong Bay?  Not to worry, we got you covered here! As … CONTINUE READING

The Best Time to Visit Halong Bay in Vietnam

Finding the best time to visit Halong Bay in Vietnam can be a daunting task, especially if it is your first time. Not to worry … CONTINUE READING

5 Of The Most Popular Caves In Halong Bay To Explore

Experience Halong Bay’s surreal landscape in the spectacular caverns that fill its landscape. Finding the ultimate Halong Bay cave to explore has never been easier … CONTINUE READING

7 Amazing Things to Do in Halong Bay, Vietnam

Halong (or Ha Long) Bay is a stunning oasis on the northeast coast of Vietnam. Its unbelievable landscape is made of limestone formations and islets … CONTINUE READING

Let us Help you Plan your Trip to Hanoi – [Your One Page Guide]

Where should you stay and what should you do in Hanoi? Let’s start planning your trip to Hanoi with these itinerary suggestions. North Vietnam is … CONTINUE READING

Hoi An Basket Boat Tour Review – Our Coconut Basket Boat Tour

Are you looking for the best Hoi An basket boat tour, that is a bit more private and not overcrowded? Then, this is the best … CONTINUE READING

The Ancient City of Lanterns in Vietnam – Hoi An Old Town!

Welcome to the beautiful Hoi An Old Town, the town that you will fall in love with! Join in on the fun with thousands of … CONTINUE READING

How To Travel From Hanoi To Halong Bay (Or Vice Versa)

Hạ Long Bay, Vietnam, is world-known for its stunning towering limestone islands. Visitors love exploring this beautiful part of Vietnam on either one of the … CONTINUE READING

The Ultimate Guide on How to Get from Hanoi to Hoi An (& Vice Versa)

Hoi An is a small town in central Vietnam that has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1999.  It is known for its … CONTINUE READING

Best Hotels in Vietnam: Places to Stay for a Memorable Trip!

Are you scared of getting scammed, when booking your Vietnam Accommodation?   Worried that the place you are booking is not going to live up to … CONTINUE READING

The Ultimate List of Best Vietnam Books to Read!

I love to read and nothing excites me more than finding a book before I travel to power-up the anticipation of the trip to come!  … CONTINUE READING

What you NEED to Know before you Travel to Vietnam!

Vietnam happens to be one of our absolute favorite Asian countries to visit!  A country that will give you a sensory overload, one with an … CONTINUE READING

How To Get From Hanoi To Sapa: Transfer, Train Or Bus To Sapa

Due to its location, around 350km from Hanoi, Sapa happens to also be a region in Vietnam that a lot of tourists bypass as it … CONTINUE READING

Our Review Of The 6-Star Hotel In Ho Chi Minh City

When we went to Vietnam, we were not only looking for a wonderful experience of living abroad but also to find out more about the … CONTINUE READING

Almanity Hoi An Resort & Spa Review (Our Honest Thoughts)

I have been fascinated by the culture of Vietnam since I was a child; so, visiting the country has always been a part of my … CONTINUE READING

Top 10 Things to do in Phu Quoc, Vietnam

– GUEST POST – by Melissa from Thrifty Family Travels My family can’t get enough of holidays on South East Asian beaches. We have visited … CONTINUE READING

Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort & Spa Review | Luxurious Hoi An Accommodation

I can understand why Lonely Planet has dubbed Hoi An as Vitenam’s most atmospheric and delightful little town. This charming town is located in Central … CONTINUE READING

Review of Topas Ecolodge in Sapa, Vietnam

The setting and views from Topas Ecolodge will impress even the hardest of hearts! This Sapa luxury hotel instantly made us think about ‘Maldives’ or … CONTINUE READING

Authentic Things to do in Hanoi – Discover the Real Hanoi!

Ah to visit Hanoi, memories to last forever. The people, the food, and the heat! The place that captures your mind, and enriches your senses … CONTINUE READING

Top 5 Memorable Ho Chi Minh City Attractions!

Of all the cities we visited in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City was by far the most modern!  Whilst driving through the streets to reach … CONTINUE READING

15 Best Things To Do In Vietnam During Your Next Trip

Vietnam. Every single time I think of you, a million pictures run through my head. My eyes light up and a satisfied smile shows up … CONTINUE READING

What To See In Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay During A Cruise

I have only been sailing a few times in my life, but every time I get on a boat, something changes in me.  I don’t … CONTINUE READING

Luxurious Halong Bay Indochina Sails Junk Cruise 3 Days/2 Nights

Hands up who has been to Phi Phi islands before! My hand is up too. When we were looking into the Halong Bay Indochina Sails … CONTINUE READING

Visiting The Bac Ha Market In Vietnam | The Most Colorful Markets!

I have been to many markets in my life, but I have never been to one quite like this. Vietnam markets are different.  Vietnam markets … CONTINUE READING

Everything You Need To Know About A Sapa Hike in Vietnam!

Are you ready for a hike of a lifetime? For an insanely picturesque Sapa hike that takes you down mountains, across valleys and past lush green rice paddies? … CONTINUE READING

Top 5 ‘Must-See’ Hanoi Tourist Attractions That Should Be On Your Itinerary

I have always wondered what a visit to Vietnam would be like. Never would I have thought that this place would change my life and … CONTINUE READING

A Review Of Paradise Boutique Hotel In The Hanoi Old Quarter

Located in the heart of the busy streets of Hanoi Old Quarter you will find a little gem! This little treasure stands tall amongst the … CONTINUE READING

Relaxing on the Hoi An Beaches | Cua Dai beach vs An Bang Beach

What do you get when you cross a great golden sun high in the bluest sky, hot sandy beaches that stretch as far as eye … CONTINUE READING

A Journey through the Local Villages in the Hoi An Countryside

Paint a picture in your head of narrow roads, lined by  palm tree upon palm tree.  Add some boats and some fishing nets together with … CONTINUE READING

A Coffee Lovers Guide to Different Types of Vietnam Coffee | Vietnamese Egg Coffee & More!

The coffee is pretty unique in Vietnam and actually forms a great part of their culture. Here the Vietnamese coffee is part of socializing and … CONTINUE READING

10 Travel Essentials For Vietnam That You Need For Your Trip!

We are absolutely ecstatic about our upcoming exploration of an incredibly gorgeous Asian country. This one has been on my bucket list for years and … CONTINUE READING

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Vietnam Travel Guide

Are you planning a trip to Vietnam and on a budget? Then, this Vietnam travel guide is just for you!

Traveling in Vietnam you will find large urban cities, island-filled bays, rice terraces, caves, and some of the best food you’ve ever eaten. The locals are friendly and will make you feel welcome in their country.

Vietnam offers a plethora of flavors, sounds, landscapes, and people. Once you visit this place, you’ll never want to leave.

Vietnam Travel Guide Contents

Important Info    |    Best Time to Visit    |    Things to Do    |    What to Eat    |    Typical Budget

Travel Tips    |    What to Pack    |    Vietnam Articles    |    Book Now

Important Information about Vietnam

Vietnam at a Glance:  Located in Southeast Asia, Vietnam is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. With its stunning beaches, Buddhist shrines, lush mountains, sleepy rural villages, and bustling cities, Vietnam has everything for every type of traveler.

Hanoi: bustling city in the north of the country with lots of character

Sapa: small mountain town known for rice terraces and homestays

Halong Bay: take a boat cruise through these stunning rock formations

Hoi An: this beautiful UNESCO town is located in the middle of the country and has a charming architecture and a laidback vibe

Dalat: set in the mountains, this town is less hot and humid than the rest of the country and is known for adventure activities

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): modern and busy city in the south of the country

Currency in Vietnam: Vietnamese dong | 2018 Conversion Rate: 10000 VND = $0.43 USD

Tipping in Vietnam: In Vietnam, tipping is not customary but it is highly appreciated. The locals don’t have a habit of tipping unless you go to upscale restaurants or get a massage from spas. You could say that the tipping culture here is at its infancy.

However, most of the tourist cities including Hanoi, Saigon, Hoi An and others are becoming more familiar with tipping. Some high-end services may add a service fee to your bills from 5 percent to 15 percent.

Headed to Vietnam soon? Don’t forget to get a visa lined up before you go! Not sure if you need one? We’ll explain if you need one and how to get a Vietnam Visa On Arrival . 

Language & Helpful Phrases:  Vietnamese

Hello = xin chào

Thank you = Cám ơn

Beer = bia

Delicious = Thơm ngon

Bathroom =  Phòng tắm

How much? = Bao nhiêu?

Too expensive = Quá đắt

Don’t want = Không muốn

Religion and Culture:  More than 70 percent of Vietnam’s population are Buddhists. Other official religions recognized by the government are Catholicism, Islam, Protestantism, Hoa Hao, and Cao Dai. Most of the religion in Vietnam has been greatly influenced by the Tam Giáo, also known as triple religion – Taoism, Confucianism and Buddhism.

Transportation around Vietnam: When you’re in Vietnam, your transportation will depend on your budget, time, flexibility and love for adventure. The safest and best way to go around Vietnam is by car. Buses, on the other hand, can either be delighted or unpleased. It depends on your expectations. There are also trains running along Vietnam’s coast. Always book ahead if you are planning on traveling during the weekend.

Transportation Tip:   12go.asia is a great site is you want to book your transportation in advance or look at the time tables!

Best Time To Visit Vietnam

For an in-depth guide on the regional seasons, weather patterns and other factors, check out our complete guide on the best time to visit Vietnam . We’ve also listed out some of the basics below to give you a general idea.

Climate in Vietnam

Vietnam’s weather differs between each region, so planning can be a bit tricky if you’re not careful.

Hanoi and The Northern Part of Vietnam:

Hot and rainy season: May to October

Cool season: December and January

Dry season: November to April

Central Vietnam:

Hot and dry season: January to August

Rainy season: September to November

Southern Vietnam:

Hot and dry season: November to April

Rainy season: June to August

Peak season for tourists is during the summertime around June and July. However, this time is also the monsoon season so expect a lot of rain showers.

Times to avoid traveling in Vietnam

It is best to avoid early February during the Tet or Vietnamese New Year, because the locals will be traveling as well and prices will be high.

Ho Chi Minh City: Avoid May to November because of the heavy rain. Often, there is flood on the main streets so it is best that you do not travel during this time.

Phu Quoc Island: Avoid the months June to October. This is often the time of strong winds and heavy rain.

Dalat: April to October is the raining season.

Nha Trang: Expect that there will be a lot of rain from September to December.

Hoi An: Heavy rains occur around August to December.

Halong: Avoid the local summer holiday around June and July.

Hanoi: Aside from the hot weather, May to September is the time of heavy rains and storms.

Major Festivals in Vietnam

If you want to experience Vietnam at its best, you should definitely check out the major festivals in the country. Here you will get up close and personal with the myths and culture of Vietnam.

Tet Nguyen Dan , around late January or early February: Tet Nguyen Dan is one of the major festivals in Vietnam. It marks the arrival of spring according to the Lunar calendar but most importantly, it is the Vietnamese New Year.

Hoi An Lantern Festival , every month: The Hoi An Lantern Festival is celebrated every month during the full moon. The lanterns are its biggest feature. At around 8 pm, you will witness the beauty of the floating lanterns.

Mid-Autumn Festival , September 15: Mid-Autumn Festival is unlike any other. It originates to around 20,000 years ago. Here, family relationships are celebrated and mooncakes are eaten.

Top Things to Do in Vietnam

Eat all the food that you can.

When in Vietnam, you have to eat all the food that you can. One of the best places to be in is Hanoi . It has some of the best and cheap street food in the world.

Take a trek in Sapa

Just 6 hours away from Hanoi, Sapa boasts of stunning rice terraces and waterfalls especially when the weather is clear. Book a bus online from Hanoi to Sapa so you don’t have to worry about transportation when you’re there.

Visit Paradise Cave and Dark Cave

If you love caves, then you’ll definitely love Dark Cave and Paradise Cave in Phong Nha. In the Dark Cave, you can trek, zip-line, and swim in a cave lake. On the other hand, Paradise Cave is one of the most gigantic caves in the world. It used to be the largest cave until Son Doong took its place.

Go Canyoneering in Da Lat

For more adventures, don’t miss going to Da Lat. You can go cliff jumping and repelling down waterfalls in this fantastic place.

Insider Tip: For the highlight of your trip to Vietnam, don’t forget to take the secret tour in Da Lat .

Did you know Vietnam is a great place to teach English? Find out how to get certified to  teach English abroad .

Best Food to Eat in Vietnam

Most households in Vietnam eat vegetables and noodle soups. A typical meal would be a vegetable dish, a seafood or meat dish, soup, fish sauce, and rice.

Here are some of our favorites:

Grilled Chicken: fresh and ordered half or whole

Banh Bot Loc:  great as an appetizer with shrimp-stuffed tapioca dumplings

Banh Khoai:  savory pancake

Bun Bo Hue:  vermicelli noodle beef soup that’s spicy

Bánh mì baguette sandwich:  cheap and tasty street food

Cao lầu:  noodle soup

Insider Tip:   Happy Cow is a great resource for finding vegetarian and vegan restaurants all around the country!

Typical Budget for Vietnam

Vietnam is such a large country that offers a lot of things to do and places to see. For travelers on a budget, Vietnam is a dream come true. For as low as $20 per day, you can survive on a shoestring budget and travel around the country.

Good to know:  If you know how to drive a motorbike, you can rent one on the cheap and save on your transportation costs. Plus, Vietnam has some pretty epic drives that are best discovered on two wheels!

How Much to Budget in Vietnam Per Day

Budget traveler:  If you are on a tight budget and watch your spending closely, $20 – $30 could be a sufficient daily budget.

Mid-range traveler:  If you want to have a few splurges and stay in nicer accommodation, plan to budget $30 – $50 per day

Dorm bed = $5-8

Budget room = $18-25

Mid-range = $30-45

Luxury hotel = $60+

Street food = $1-$2

Mid-range restaurant = $3-$6

Fancy restaurant = $10+

Local beer = $0.88

Domestic flight = $36-$45 (Jetstar or Vietnam airlines)

Open bus tickets = $68-$70 through country

Taxi = $5-$10

Airport shuttle bus = $2

Trains = $11.50-$50 depending class and length of the route

Trekking in Sapa = $19 with a guide

Halong Bay Boat Trip = $64 for a 2-day cruise

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi = $3-$5

Vietnamese Cooking Class in Hoi An = $30

Responsible Travel Tips in Vietnam

We are passionate about sharing tips anyone can use to travel more responsibly. Here are some easy ways you can travel better in Vietnam.

1. Plan your itinerary well

Vietnam can be a tricky place to visit. If you want to see the best that the country has to offer, it’s best to avoid forcing everything on your itinerary. Allow at least 3 to 4 weeks to explore the Vietnam from North to South. Book tours with ethical companies throughout the country. Check out reviews and discover organizations that are giving back to their communities. You can check our one-month Vietnam itinerary to help you.

2. Go easy on the haggling

Prices in Vietnam are cheap but most things don’t have fixed prices so you can haggle. However, with prices so low, inform yourself of what a good price is and don’t argue over 50 cents. The local people need make a living and tourism helps support that.

3. Say no to plastic straws

When buying a drink, ask for no straw ( không rơm in Vietnamese) and start reducing your plastic use. A single plastic straw may look convenient and simple but it contributes a lot of harm to our environment. It is one of the top five items that’s found in most beaches and adds to the millions of plastic wastes in the oceans.

Related Article:  Eco-Friendly Packing List for Responsible Travelers

What to Pack for Vietnam

When going to Vietnam, loose-fitting, layers and lightweight stuff are what you should go for.  Don’t overpack. It’s impractical to bring all of those home comforts with you.

Here are some Vietnam-specific items we’d recommend packing:

bug repellant  (solids are the way to go)

reef safe sunscreen

insulated water bottle

reusable straw &  reusable bag  ( say no to single-use plastic! )

loose, lightweight clothes & layers

rain jacket (it can rain during any season, so you’ll want to be prepared!)

diarrhea medication (in case you get hit by a stomach bug)

a quick-dry towel

small first aid kit

Chaco sandals (we’d recommend these instead of hiking boots as they are less bulky and are good for walking through water)

Vietnam Articles

Backpacking for over five weeks in Vietnam was nothing short of incredible. Vietnam has some of the most naturally beautiful landscapes in the world. Find all kinds of information on traveling to Vietnam to help you plan your trip. From how to get a Vietnam visa to fun things to do in Vietnam.

11 Best Things to Do in Ninh Binh, Vietnam

With ancient roots and adventurous activities, visiting the Ninh Binh, Vietnam should be on every traveler’s bucket list. In this guide, we’ll show you the best things to do in Ninh Binh, beyond the typical tourist experiences. 

Vietnamese Street Food: 25 Delicious Dishes You Must Try in Vietnam

Discover traditional ingredients and the best local spots to savor Vietnamese cuisine. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, this list promises a tantalizing exploration of popular Vietnamese dishes.

Best Time to Visit Vietnam: When to Go & When to Avoid!

Spanning more than 1,000 miles from north to south, the climate and weather of Vietnam can vary drastically depending on where you’re traveling. We’re going to walk you through the best times to visit Vietnam, and which times of year to avoid (if possible!).

One Month in Vietnam: A Complete Itinerary

Vietnam is a country filled with delicious food, friendly people and a rich history. We traveled for a little over one month backpacking this action-packed nation. The itinerary below is a perfect guide from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City for anyone visiting Vietnam for the first time.

How to get a Vietnam Visa On Arrival

Need a tourist visa for Vietnam? We'll show you the options and which one is the cheapest and fastest way to get a Vietnam visa.

14 Free & Cheap Things To Do in Hanoi

We stopped in Hanoi many times during our travels in Vietnam and this guide has you covered with free and cheap things to do in Hanoi, plus where to stay and what to eat.

8 Fun Things To Do in Hoi An

It's no surprise why people love to travel to Hoi An Vietnam. It is a city with complex history, delicious food, fun nightlife, and hundreds of Hoi An tailors. This historic port city has so many activities to do. Oh, and you can't forget about the beach! Whether you have...

6 Adventurous Things To Do in Da Lat, Vietnam

Not only is Da Lat the adventure capital of Vietnam, but it's a city full of quirky surprises. Follow this backpacker's guide and we'll tell you our best tips and things to do in Da Lat.

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Book Your Trip Now

GONE TO VIETNAM

BEYOND HANOI

Welcome, I’m Katie…

I have lived in Vietnam since 2017, and have traveled extensively throughout this country over the last 6+ years. 

Today, I use my knowledge and insider perspective to help women travelers just like you discover Hanoi’s local customs and hidden gems, helping you create a safe, memorable, and authentic experience while traveling in Vietnam.

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Ultimate travel, guide book to vietnam.

Our comprehensive guide is filled with insider tips, stunning photos, and detailed information on the best destinations and local experiences throughout Vietnam.

Best of all, it’s completely free for our website visitors. Don’t miss out on this valuable resource – download your copy now and start exploring Vietnam like a local!

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Vietnam Travel Blog

This post may contain affiliate links.

Vietnam is one of our favourite countries, packed with history, stunning landscapes, cultural highlights, and amazing food. It’s one of the most exciting destinations in South East Asia. We visited back in 1999 for the first time ever and we go back regularly to create this Vietnam Travel Blog section for you. We’ve had the luxury of time and long visas to really get to know Vietnam. Our aim is to help you plan your trip to Vietnam using this travel guide.

In this travel blog about Vietnam, we’ll look at places to go in Vietnam, itinerary ideas, where to stay, what to eat, and how to travel in Vietnam.

Links in this post will take you to more detailed posts on that topic, or you can check the related posts at the bottom of the page, or use our search tool at the top.

We hope you find our Vietnam tips and guides useful in planning your travel, vacation, or holiday in Vietnam. This guide is suitable for first-timers in Vietnam or return visitors looking for different parts of the country to explore.

Let’s start with the one most important point I want to make about travel in Vietnam. The first point below.

We’ve had nothing but wonderful experiences with the people of Vietnam and other travel bloggers saying nasty things about the Vietnamese upsets us.

Yes, if this is your first time in Asia, you could find the way things are just different or challenging.

In all our years in Vietnam, we’ve met some of the nicest people out there.

Vietnam Travel Blog – Things To Know About Vietnam

Have you heard vietnam is difficult or the vietnamese unpleasant.

The Vietnamese can be some of the nicest, friendliest, kindest, and happiest people you could meet.

They’re charming without being pushy, helpful, lovers of children, and just genuinely nice.

Of course, there are some bad apples and most of the bad stories involve taxi driver scams, but in all our time in Vietnam, we’ve seen only good.

You need some travel smarts as you do in any country where haggling over prices is just the normal way to do things. Smile, try to use some Vietnamese, and don’t be obnoxious.

The Vietnamese are good people. See what happened when I fell off my bike while we were living in Hoi An  if you need further proof.

This is one thing that I really want to stress on this Vietnam Travel Blog, we really like the Vietnamese people we’ve met.

Vietnam – Video

A Short Vietnam video giving you a taste of what Vietnam is like.

Traffic and Roads in Vietnam

Because speed limits are low and roads are largely populated by push bikes and scooters, we feel safer on the roads in Vietnam than we have done so far in any Asian country.

Cities are busy but we cycled with our kids every day in Hoi An.

Crossing the road is an adventure. Nobody is going to stop, you just get used to picking your time and weaving between moving vehicles.

Just yesterday I watched two little girls on their way to school.

At 5 years old they know how it’s done and their parents trust they’ll be safe solo.

Just watch out for taxis and buses, they can be unpredictable.

Nobody on a bike has a death wish, they’re all trying to get home to their families safely. But sadly road death rates are high in Vietnam.

Use common sense and don’t hire scooters unless you have a suitable international motorbike license and adequate travel insurance .

Vietnam Travel Blog – Highlights of Vietnam

Vietnam has at least 8 UNESCO-listed sites. These include Ha Long Bay, Hue’s historic sites, the old town of Hoi An, and the Champa complex at My Son Sanctuary (above).

This country also has beaches, islands and resort hotels.

Vietnam has mountains, padi fields and waterways, bustling cities and the sleepiest traditional villages.

Some highlights of Vietnam, below. We’re always adding more!

Vietnam Travel Blog – Destinations

There are a million places to visit in Vietnam and I can’t possibly put them all on this page. Let’s just start here with a few popular destinations.

For more detail, you’ll have to find the dedicated post on this site.

Just follow the links or use the search box at the top of our sidebar.

A new addition and one that we highly recommend is Phong Nha National Park and caves in Central Vietnam.

You’ll find the biggest caves in the world in Vietnam at Phong Nha.

Saigon  (Ho Chi Minh)

Saigon refers to the inner city area of Ho Chi Minh City. Renamed after the war in honor of the North Vietnamese leader.

The area that most people end up staying in is District 1. Here you will find backpacker accommodation and agencies selling tours and transportation to just about anywhere in Vietnam.

One of the best tours from Saigon would be to the Chu Chi tunnels which are located about 50 km west of the city.

This tour can include a Cau Dai temple visit, this religion is unique to Vietnam and was founded in 1912.

Alternatively combine your visit to the tunnels with a Mekong Delta tour, again, direct from HCM. Our links take you to a tour booking platform we trust and use ourselves.

The biggest drawcards in Saigon itself, are the War Remnants Museum and the Old Palace build by the South Vietnamese rulers.

The Old Palace hasn’t been used since tanks drove through its gates in 1975 to officially end the war.

Saigon also boasts French Period architecture, abundant great food, and fascinating markets.

Food tours through the backstreets by scooter are very popular, your driver and guide will know exactly where to find the best Vietnamese street food.

Check them out here!

To book your Cu Chi Tunnels tour in advance (recommended), check this half-day tunnels tour .

To Book Cu Chi, with the additional Cau Dai Temple Tour, look at this double tour of both attractions.

We lived in Hoi An for a few months and we loved our time there.

During our time living in Vietnam we were lucky enough to experience Tet, lunar new year, in Vietnam .

It’s a beautiful time of year to be in Vietnam, but does bring closures.

In Hoi An this is marked by kumquat trees, a kumquat festival , and seas of flowers.

There are lanterns released nightly in Hoi An, but the bigger lantern festivals bring less restrained attractions.

It really is nice to be there when the locals are making their offerrings.

This incredibly picturesque riverside city is something of a tourist hot-spot these days. It combines the charms of the Old Town, with its ancient buildings, tailor’s shops, and Hoi An central market , with nearby rice paddies and beaches.

Hoi An food is world-famous and central Vietnam is a big producer of quality seafood.

Dining in Hoi An is diverse and delicious, expect traditional local foods alongside western restaurants and top-class hotels.

Around town, there are various places of interest to keep you busy, throw a pot at the pottery village , take a free Vietnamese lesson or one of the many local eco tours.

My Son Sanctuary , Danang, and Marble Mountain are a short day trip from Hoi An and Hue is accessible by tour, bus or train.

The nearest large city, Danang, is about 45 minutes away from Hoi An by road.

Da Nang is another beach-side tourist draw, popular with family holiday-makers visiting Hoi An with Kids . Danang has its own airport and the nearest train station to Hoi An.

The best trip to take from lovely Hoi An is always a cooking class with coracle (basket boat) ride Take a look at these fantastic experiences here.

Hoi An is renowned throughout Vietnam and the world for its cuisine.

” You haven’t experienced Vietnam until you’ve visited its noisy, vibrant capital city, Hanoi . Navigate the traffic-choked streets of the Old Quarter to discover crumbling colonial buildings, street vendors and traditional tubular shops.

Hanoi is filled with historic buildings but don’t miss the ornate Temple of Literature, St Joseph’s Cathedral and the UNESCO listed Imperial Citadel of Thang Long.

Learn about the country’s revolutionary leader at the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum and palace complex. Next, take a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake where locals come to exercise and relax.

No trip to Hanoi would be complete without sampling its famous food delights. Dishes such as a Banh Mi sandwich or the city’s signature dish, Bun Cha. Stop in at Café Giang for a Ca Phe Trung (egg coffee), they’ve been serving this traditional brew for over 70 years.

Don’t miss the traditional Vietnamese water puppet show in Hanoi, it’s like nothing you’ll see in any other country. Get discounted skip-the-line tickets here.

Ha Long Bay

“If you are looking for a magical location in Vietnam, then you cannot go past Ha Long Bay in the north of the country.  

With emerald-green waters, limestone islands and mystical caves, all while touring on Junk Boats, Ha Long Bay draws travellers to her every day. It is certainly one of our favourites in South East Asia. 

From day tours through to tours that keep you entertained for 2 days 3 nights, we highly recommend the latter.

Sleeping on a Junk Boat, while doing day visits to floating villages, taking rowing tours, and getting to jump off the boat into the cool refreshing water, is so relaxing and fun. A cruise like this gives you a great insight into local living whi le seeing nature’s beauty up close. 

No matter what your budget, we highly recommend you choose your junk boat tour wisely. S pend a few extra dollars to get a better experience and higher quality boat.

We have done three tours since 2008 and loved Signature Cruises. You can read all about our recent trip to Halong Bay right here. “

If you’re looking for a quieter alternative to Ha Long Bay, try Lan Ha Bay. Like its bigger neighbour, Lan Ha Bay is a popular multi-day cruise destination. Check it out here.

“Home to Vietnam’s highest peak (Fan Si Pan, which soars 3143m above sea level) Sapa is a must-see destination for nature lovers.

The people of Sapa started welcoming tourists as far back as the early 1900s. French colonists used it to escape the searing heat of Vietnam’s lowlands. During the 1940s, Vietnamese independence fighters drove the French from the region and it wasn’t until a few decades ago that tourists started to return to Sapa.

Within easy reach of Hanoi, by overnight bus or train, Sapa is now one of Vietnam’s most popular tourist destinations.

In Sapa, the magnificent purple mountains sink away into deep valleys, where terraced rice paddies feed the imagination — and the local population.

Many ethnic minorities, including the H’Mong, the Dao and the Dai, make their homes in hidden villages among these hills. Be mindful of travelling ethically in Vietnam and in this delicate region.

For tourists, the big draw is the chance to trek along Sapa’s stunning valleys and mountains. It makes an excellent antidote to the hectic pace of life in Hanoi and is a great place to escape the heat.

Taking a multi-day trek between village homestays gives you the chance to immerse yourself in a slower pace of life. Stretch your legs on the mountain tracks, and indulge in shots of the locally-made rice wine. It burns as it goes down but is said to loosen your muscles after a long day of walking!”

If you want to trek and enjoy the outdoors in Vietnam, Ha Giang is a good alternative, again, a multi-day trip available from Hanoi. See your options here.

We loved Hue. I think what made Hue such a stand-out destination for us was the tour we took and the people we met. A special tour, with local female students, gave us a chance to really get under the skin of Hue. We learned so much more than most tourists.

The company we used was a chance find, a young Vietnamese woman started a company to empower Vietnamese girls. She wanted to help them improve what she called their “soft” skills.

The two students who took us around Hue showed us sites we would never have dreamed of visiting. One was studying English, one Medicine.

If you get the chance, we highly recommend these tours, and once borders open we’ll be back for more. This is a similar Hue motorbike tour and seems to be the same company (by the T-shirts and use of motorbikes.) I can’t find the exact tour we took, but this part was identical and wonderful.

This was a mum and son trip, the whole family couldn’t go. At that point, my elder son was a young teen and loved the things we saw and did in Central Vietnam.

In Hue be sure to try local specialities of salt coffee and Bun Bo Hue .

Tours in Vietnam

How do you want to visit Vietnam? There are heaps of options.

Luxury Tours or Packages

We review hotels for one of Australia’s luxury travel package companies. They get incredible prices on some of the best luxury hotels around the world. We have the job of testing these hotels for them, it’s a tough job. If you’re interested visit the Luxury Escapes website.

Small Group Tours of Vietnam

All of the big adventure travel companies offer small group tours of Vietnam. We’re big fans of Explore Worldwide, GAdventures, and Grasshopper Adventures. My husband and I met on one of these small group tours, decades ago.   If you use the links above, you can look at the Vietnam tours on offer. Most offer cycling tours, this is a very popular way to see Vietnam.

Tours and Transportation Within Vietnam. Booking Trains, Buses and Planes

Every town visited by tourists and backpackers has plenty of small travel agents’ shops selling tours and onward transportation. Everything is very easy to arrange on the ground but you’ll need time and your best haggling skills.

To book train or bus tickets online ( or even flights)in advance,  you can use 12GoAsia. This site has been around a long time and has been popular for Thailand for a very long time. Visit 12GoAsia here .

If you’re short of time or need to book a tour in advance for a particular day, we recommend booking online. Read our Get Your Guide tours review here.  

Classes and Courses to Take in Vietnam

Cooking classes, pottery classes, Vietnamese lessons, yoga, painting and more.  

Theatre, Dance & Music from Lune at 3 Locations in Vietnam and Traditional Vietnamese Water Puppets.

Something I have to add, because we saw a show in Hoi An and thought it was wonderful, are the Lune Theatre productions. You can catch these in Saigon, Hanoi and now, new for 2018, in a purpose-built performance space in Hoi An.

These shows are magical and beautiful, featuring traditional music and instruments, dance, drama and more. The show we saw in Hoi An, “The Mist” beautifully illustrates the life of rice farmers in the Mekong Delta. If you get a chance, go.

You can book Lune tickets in advance for the Saigon/Ho Chi Minh Opera House show here . These shows do sell out so reserve your place.

Find out more on Lune’s own website .. There are 4 different shows that rotate through Lune’s current 3 theatres in Vietnam.

I’ll also mention Vietnamese water puppet shows. We’ve seen shows in Hanoi and Hoi An, great for kids and a lot of fun. These short performances are traditional and well worth seeing. Buy tickets to Hanoi’s water puppet show (discounted and skip-the-line).

Vietnam Travel Blog – Visas

2 week, e-visa, 3 month, multiple entry and more.

Please double check all information in this section for 2021 and onward. There were no Vietnam tourist visas available last time we checked. They are due to return soon, we hope.

Vietnam isn’t as easy as other countries in South East Asia when it comes to visas. It’s also one of the more expensive countries to enter. You can’t just turn up at the borders empty-handed and expect a visa on arrival unless you’re on a two-week holiday.

Vietnam requires a little forward planning for long-term travellers.  Please read the information below and do your own research for your country. We’re as current as we can be, but for Vietnam the regulations seem to change by the hour.

You’ll find a search box below ( an affiliate) for what we think is a trustworthy visa company.

Visitors to Vietnam can visit a Vietnamese embassy to buy their Visa. Or arrange an e-visa approval online which they must then produce on arrival.

We were going to visit the Vietnamese embassy in London when we discovered that using a visa agency was actually cheaper and potentially easier. The embassy in London would charge $100 US for each 3 month visa. That was significantly more expensive than using the agency.

We took the agency route (letter of pre-approval) for our 3 month Vietnam visa and had no problems whatsoever on arrival in Vietnam as UK passport holders.

The agencies don’t actually issue the visas but give you an authorization letter from the Vietnamese immigration department. This allows you to receive a visa on arrival.

Airlines are strict and usually won’t let you on the plane without either a full visa or authorization letter, ours was checked at Heathrow.

You pay a small fee to the agency to get the letter emailed to you. The agency will apply for multiple travellers so when you get your letter don’t be surprised that it contains other people’s details such as name, date of birth and passport number.

You can ask for a private letter with just your details for approximately $10 US more per person.

The costs are normally between $20 and $25 US for the authorization letter. You then need to pay the stamping fee on arrival in Vietnam where the actual visa is stuck into your passport.

This ranges from $20 for a single month to about $25 for a three-month single entry visa. The multiple entry visas attract a higher stamping fee approximately $50 US. All the stamping fees need to be paid in cash in US $.

The authorization letter only works if you are flying into an international airport. It will not work at land crossings. For that you’ll need to have a visa in your passport from an embassy or you will only be entitled to the free 15 day visa on arrival ( certain counties only)

We’ve consulted with the visa company below ( Sherpa , they are based in Canada) and they had the following to say:

We have uncovered a number of recent disclaimers/warnings from various Vietnamese Embassies about travellers getting a Letter for Visa On Arrival.

In short, the VoA route isn’t recommended by the embassies themselves. With a variety of third-party sites mimicking the official embassies. We recognize that this visa is usually the cheapest option, and widely used to this day, but we’ve decided that we are not going to offer Visa on Arrival as an option to travellers through Sherpa.

We will certainly do the eVisa, and we will also process the Loose Leaf Visa, which we are able to do for Canadians and Americans who need more than the eVisa. Overall, we will provide information to travellers in the widget, and we hope that this is helpful. “

Americans’ visa regulations for Vietnam are different again. Visa requirement change constantly, please double-check information with Sherpa or another reputable visa company.

Vietnam Travel and Food Blog

You haven’t been to Vietnam until you’ve eaten a bowl of pho or mi quang perched on a tiny plastic stool at the roadside.

The best food in Vietnam comes from street stalls. It’s what the locals eat and will cost you about a dollar a bowl. Don’t expect a menu, these stalls specialise in one perfectly executed dish only, be that mi quang , banh xeo or bun bo Hue .

Vietnamese food isn’t challenging to western palates, it’s light and fresh with few spices. If you like your food hot you’ll find fresh and dried chilies on the table to add to taste.

You’ll also find restaurants catering to tourists at every price point. None of us has had any tummy trouble at all in Vietnam and there are plenty of dishes to please children. Fresh, steamed and fried spring rolls are a favourite with my kids.

You’ll find incredible fresh seafood in Central Vietnam with prawns costing little. Vegetarians, even vegans, are pretty well catered for in Vietnam too.

Vaccinations for Travel in Vietnam and Health Considerations

Of the 50+ countries we’ve been to I’m happy to say that Vietnam is in the group that gave us zero ilnesses or tummy trouble.

None of us have had any traveller’s diarrhoea or sickness in over 6 months in Vietnam. We’ve eaten everything, at every street food stall and had no trouble at all.

We’re hugely impressed with how clean things are here compared to some other parts of the world. There are few flies, and few mosquitos, there are plenty of rats.

If you get sick in Vietnam it’s usually easy to pop along to a pharmacy, there’s one on almost every street and the pharmacists are very helpful and seem to know their stuff.

We’ve had to buy treatment for ringworm (picked up by one of the kids in London), mouth ulcers, and dressings for bike-related scrapes, it’s been no trouble at all.

I would suggest carrying a basic first aid kit with you including:

• a small bottle of iodine
• plasters and dressings
• paracetamol for kids and adults.

You can read more about our usual travel first aid kit here. The antibiotic powder Pises powder a US doctor put me onto this stuff, buy here) that I always pick up in Thailand was super useful for my cut, infected foot.

We did not take any malaria prophylaxis for Vietnam (20 years ago we had to, these days it’s rare to need it anywhere). This is the malaria map for Vietnam , most of Vietnam is low to no risk.

Find suggested vaccinations for Vietnam here.

Vietnam Travel Blog – Hotels

As travel bloggers in Vietnam, we don’t just stay in hotels. We also stay in hostels, guest houses, apartments, resorts and homestays. All are good options in Vietnam.

The first time we visited Vietnam it was very much a backpacker destination, these days there are plenty of up-market hotels and resorts on offer too and the tourists are flooding to Vietnam.

People like us, the digital nomads and long term travellers are also here and there are amazing bargains to be had in long-term, quality accommodation.

Finding the Best Prices and Deals on Hotels and Resorts in Vietnam

We highly recommend checking online booking sites if you’re serious about finding the best price for your stay, some booking engine compares multiple online booking engines to find you the best deal available.

We like to use Agoda for Asia as they are the experts for the region and often have a bigger selection, particularly try them for smaller hotels and budget accommodation.

If you’re the sort to book a long time in advance, maybe reserving multiple hotels on a fully refundable basis, Booking.com is your friend.

If you’re interested in The Sunrise Resort, pictured above, check here for prices and further information . This is one of the luxury hotels we’ve tested on behalf of Luxury Escapes, an Australian company specialising in incredibly good offers on top-end hotel packages.

Their special offer prices are way below what we paid for these hotels and the quality was superb.

Hostels in Vietnam,

You will find a big selection of hostels, some have private family rooms, on all of the above websites. We haven’t used hostels in Vietnam as guest houses and homestays are very affordable and very good, if you find the place to suit you!

Long-Term Stays, Houses, and Apartments in Vietnam

We’ve booked hotels in Hoi An and Hue through Airbnb and the usual booking sites, both were good, small boutique-style hotels or homestays.

A homestay in Vietnam can be a hotel, hostel, or actual homestay in Vietnam. We prefer not to use Airbnb usually because of the cleaning charges and time-wasting of having to be approved.

To find our beautiful house for 2 months in Hoi An we used a local expats Facebook group. We booked a cheap hotel for arrival and within half a day of posting in the expat group we’d found the perfect house for us. We rented from a lovely local family, at a great price.

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Vietnam Videos

If you’re looking for more Vietnam information you can head to our Vietnam category page. Alternatively, take a look at our Vietnam videos.

The one from the Hoi An floods and Cu Chi tunnels should interest you.

Vietnam Travel Blog with Kids

Is a blog about travelling Vietnam with kids really any different to an adult Vietnam travel blog? Not really. We’ve travelled Vietnam as young backpackers before we were married, and later, with our kids. We stayed in similar places, ate the same food, saw the same sights in Vietnam. Having kids with you makes travel in Vietnam more expensive, and often more fun!

I often wonder why people write posts “this place with kids.” It’s expected of us family travel bloggers, I guess.

Most places are pretty much the same with kids or without and you’ll find yourself staying in the same places and taking the same trips.

Kids really aren’t a problem when you travel but we parents do worry about sickness, road safety, and so on.

So Vietnam with kids , what can I say? There are loads of interesting things for kids to do. Things like the pottery classes above, the Cu Chi tunnels tour, or coconut boat rides, and crab catching.

There is much to learn about culture and history and Vietnamese food is generally lacking in spice or chilli. You can also get just about any western food here, far more easily than in Thailand.

Nobody in my family has had any sort of tummy trouble or diarrhoea in Vietnam. However, if you’re not used to tropical bugs you may want to read our post on how to avoid mosquitoes.

There are plenty of accommodation options at all price points and likewise plenty of transportation options. There are beaches if that is your want.

We think it’s as easy to take your kids to Vietnam as to any other country. Be mindful of the weather and if you plan to use bikes bring your own helmets. The roads can be dangerous.

I think I’ve seen more tourists with kids, babies and toddlers in Hoi An than in any other Asian destination. It’s a massively popular family holiday hot spot particularly for Australians. For that reason maybe avoid school holidays.

We have a full post on things to do in and around Hoi An for families, here, with more with-kids posts planned.

Vietnam Travel Blog – Conclusion

Thanks for using our website, we make it to be useful to you, so if there’s any information you need, ask in the comments and we can add it to this Vietnam Travel Blog page. We’re still in Vietnam, we’re living in Hoi An for a while, so we can get you the on-the-ground information.

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Alyson Long

Options to earn money while travelling, the haystacks of maramures. hay making in breb, 137 thoughts on “vietnam travel blog”.

I absolutely loved reading about Vietnam’s tourism offerings! The vivid descriptions of must-visit destinations, including the best beaches in Vietnam, have inspired me to plan my next adventure. Can’t wait to explore the pristine shores and vibrant culture that Vietnam has to offer!

Your travel blog is a treasure trove of insights and inspiration. From hidden gems to practical tips, their firsthand experiences enrich every reader’s journey. With captivating narratives and stunning visuals, it’s a virtual passport to Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture. A must-visit destination guide for wanderlust souls

Your Vietnam travel blog is an absolute gem.

Thanks! We love Vietnam, I guess it shows.

Never been to Vietnam before and we’re heading there in February with 13 family members (ages 7 to 78). We’re staying in the Ah Bang area – any restaurant suggestions for eating with a large group? Eg can we make reservations?

Can’t wait to check out some of the sites you write about.

Thanks for your help!

For a large group Mix Greek restaurant in the old town is a nice venue. It’s a proper restaurant rather than the sort of place you go usually. And that’s about the only one I know. We just go to small places usually. But if you were to go in anywhere and ask I’m sure they’s oblige. You may need to pay a deposit because a no-show would be a disaster for them. We have a post about restaurants / food in Hoi An. Since the shutdowns some may have changed, but I know Mix is still there.

Thanks so much for this info it’s great.

We are looking at travelling to Vietnam in December 2023 for about 18 days. The current plan is to fly into Hanoi and make our way down the coast flying out of HCMC. Both of my boys really want some surfing if possible mixed in with the sightseeing. We are currently trying to work out where would be best weather-wise and surf-wise at that time of year. I have looked at Mui Ne, Nha Trang and Vung Tau but am having trouble finding any clear consensus on where would be best for that time of year. Any insights? Thank you

Hi Natalie, the classic Hanoi-Saigon journey normally takes 30 days. Surfing I have no clue sorry, we’re not into beaches. I don’t know if there even is much by way of surf in Vietnam, I don’t recall ever seeing surfers. Best of luck.

@Alyson for World Travel Family, Thanks for your quick feedback. We will definitely not get to see all of Vietnam but hopefully fit in a few good spots along the way. The boys might just need to wait for a surf until we get back home LOL

Thanks for the blog. Nice vietnam travel blog information.

Thanks for sharing this information Alison. We’re in vietnam now, are you guys still here? We’re in Danang for a few more days. Let me know, would love to catch up 😁

We’re not Aimee, but we are in a couple of months! Enjoy 🙂

Hello Alyson,

Thank you for this wonderfully written, consise blog. This gives a good insight in planing, and what to expect when one travels to Vietnam for the first time.

I am planning a for a week long tour in December 2022 and would love some help in finalizing the itinerary.

Can you please help me with that? Thank you!

Sure, send me an email, [email protected] I need to know which airports you are flying into and out of, and I can put together an itinerary. A week isn’t long in Vietnam, bit I’m sure we can put together an itinerary. Do you have any special interests?

Love all things you told me about Vietnam

A delightful piece of information. Thank you for sharing this, the Vietnam travel visa process is carried out completely by online procedure.

Vietnam tourism has reopened again after more than 2 years. People start visiting Vietnam and now most of things come back to normal. We hope more and more travellers will visit Vietnam. Please note now there are some services not really smooth like before becuase the services start reopending.

Hello Dear friend. I have been to Vietnam 2 years ago,nice people and natur. I’m an old backpacker, and now I am looking for information about traveling along the coast from Danang to town to town, spending dags in some places? Are public transport avaiable? To recommend🤔?

Yes, plenty of public transport. The backpacker buses, public Vietnamese recliner/sleeper buses, local short trip buses, trains, taxis, biketaxi, lots of options.

Thank you for coming to our country

Thanks for letting us in and feeding us so well!

Thank you for sharing your experience. It’s really helpful !

Hi when is best weather for top to bottom trip?

Well, it depends if you like it hot or cooler. We’ve done that trip, Hanoi to Saigon in December and it was fine. Vietnam does have flooding, landslides and a monsoon season. We were in the floods once, and that can be in October/ November / December in Hoi An. Hue has flooded historically in October. There can be dangerous storms along the coast, I know one arrived in September once. I’d say March to April would be a good time, not too hot, not much rain. Hopefully Vietnam will be open by then! Northern hemisphere spring. All of Vietnam is in the northern hemisphere with the south of Vietnam being only 10 degrees north of the equator making it tropical. The north can get fairly cool, particularly in winter months (January) in the hills. I like it cool but you may find the beaches a bit chilly then. Best of luck!

Nam Du Island is currently very attractive to island tourism in the South of Vietnam. Tourists can experience affordable, fresh seafood. The locals are extremely friendly and helpful.

Quy Nhon is a popular tourist destination in the South Central Coast of Vietnam. There are only two seasons: The rainy season and the dry season. Despite the rain, visitors can travel there at any time of the year to enjoy the beautiful weather.

Thanks, we’ll check it out once borders open for travel.

Awesome blog. It’s a pity that we won’t seen Vietnam opening up right till the end of the year. Wanted to ask though, for a family with young children, would you say that there are less activities for kids, compared to say Thailand or Singapore?

Well it depends what you mean by activities for kids. All kids want is to play, eat nice food and be loved. They don’t need organised activities really I’m not really sure what activities you mean, go ahead and give me some examples. I don’t think Singapore is particularly child focussed, it’s too urban jungle. Thailand, of course, it totally depends where you go. Are we in Bangkok or the jungles of northern Thailand? But Vietnam has a softness about it, a humanity, which I think is very appealing to kids and families. Smiling people, interesting goings-on. I’m not sure on the state of play there now, they were talking about opening Phu Quoc to tourists, but I do have friends there, they’ve been there all year, travelling. Just no neighbouring borders are open so they’ve had a really, really long tome to get to know Vietnam inside-out.

Vietnam is really a great place to pay a visit at least once in a lifetime. I was planning for a family trip in this Asian country. I find this blog very useful and informative. All the given information really helps me to plan the entire trip.

Is Saigon opening in August to US travelers?

I have no idea, sorry. There has just been a fresh outbreak in central Vietnam, Da Nang, they’re locking down again locally. I think we’re all just going to have to get used to living with uncertainty. As far as I know, there’s been no formal announcement on Vietnam, as a whole opening its borders, but I know they were thinking of opening certain areas, like Cat Ba island, maybe.

Start your Vietnam tour in Hanoi, The Best holiday destinations to Vietnam and Indochina (Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand) with a variety of tour packages for each destination that are out of this world.

I think after the COVID, Vietnam will be the most wanted country.

Interesting. Vietnam is opening up by I’ve read that they’re only going to open places like Phu Quoc – which I wouldn’t be interested in visiting, unfortunately.

very good information on the blog, I was looking for new vacation destinations and thanks to what I read I decided on vietnam

I hope you get there. Currently, Vietnam has cancelled all visas due to Coronavirus COVID-19 quarantine border shut downs.

Great read, awesome that you take the time to write everything down for people planning to go to Vietnam – mega useful! What I am wondering about – have you ever considered touring through vietnam by motorcycle? Maybe drive by yourself or go on a guided tour with easy riders Or is that too dangerous?

Not really our thing, we prefer bicycles. No I don’t think the roads in Vietnam are particularly dangerous, they certainly feel safer than Thailand and drivers are very courteous of bicycles ( My husband did all his Ironman training there on a road bike, over the Hai Van pass a couple of times a week. We know road death statistics are high, but we had no issues in Central Vietnam. Probably the lack of helmets and sub-standard helmets are a big factor.

Hey! I am planning on going to Vietnam and have heard about the danger of crossing the street which really scares me… is there any way I can avoid it maybe by not going to a certain neighborhood or city? Is it the same in every city or just in hanoi? Is it actually that dangerous?

OK, so crossing the street looks crazy to westerners but it’s actually fine. You’ll see little old ladies and small children doing it. Maybe just stick with a local. Keep a steady forward pace so that the scooter drivers can predict where you’re going and they’ll go around you. You do need to watch out for trucks though, but you won’t see too many of those outside main roads.

Hi, I think your question is great and I have experience so I want to share with you something. Traffic in Vietnam is a bit chaotic but crossing the road is not necessarily difficult for tourists. I suggest 3 ways to cross the road really easily. 1. Raise your hand straight to the sky and cross the street – this action means crossing the street. 2. You can ask a local for a walk or a traffic police – Vietnamese people are very friendly and lovely, so helping someone is very helpful. 3. Find other paths – I’ve seen many tourists wait for a long time to get across the street. But meanwhile there is a pedestrian path to cross the road directly below. (Be quick to observe.)

Very Nice blog and an attractive websites must read highly recommended!! Thanks for sharing with us.

Thank you Lushi

The Australian Government website has a link to obtain a Vietnam visa on line. Takes two or three days and total cost is US$25. Print it out and no problems at customs.

Great thanks! We were in Vietnam a few weeks ago, as UK passport holders we don’t need a visa, we go in for free for 15 days and didn’t have to stand in the queue at the visa desk. What period is the form above for? Is that just for a short holiday or the 3-month visa we normally get? We’re thinking of going back to live there again and just doing visa runs every 3 months, which seems fairly unproblematic.

Hello Alyson, Thank you so much for your great blog, especially about Viet Nam and Hoi An. While I am reading your blog and some friends comments about their needs of finding an accommodation for a month in Hoi An….we would love to offer our homestay options if you see our house suit your needs, that would be our pleasure to welcome you. If you don’t mind allowing us to leave our contact here for any friends who want to connect, that would be so kind of you.

It would be very kind of me indeed Thi Thao. Unfortunaely I can’t allow that as I don’t know your property or anything about it. Also people offer me thousands of dollars to place adverts such as yours. I’m very sorry I can’t allow you to self promote like that, it’s not how this works, you can’t just advertise here.

I am planning a second trip to Vietnam in July 2020. I went in January and the weather was lovely, but I’m a little bit scared about the rainy season in July… Do you have any advise ?

Thank you so much !

It’s very dependent on where in Vietnam you’re going. July in Hoi An was pleasant. We got the floods around Christmas.

Appreciating the persistence you put into your blog and detailed information you provide.

Thanks for all the information, we are trying to book a short break in Hoi An as part of a larger Asian trip, we’re really struggling to book hotels for 2 adults and 4 children – do you have any suggestions? I realise you only have two kids but thought you might have heard from other larger families, Lots of hotels websites don’t seem to allow for combinations of rooms, self-limit to two children etc? Thanks!

I don’t off the top of my head no. When you enter 6 people into Agoda, Booking dot com, etc, do they not give you any suitable options? They will all have fire regulations so you can’t just shoe-horn in an extra couple of little ones. Have you tried The Sunrise? That’s a very child-friendly resort.

I had a quick search, this hotel, Hoi An Silk has rooms that will take 7 if two of your children are under 6. https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1643033&hl=en&hid=400345

So does this one, The Allegro, adjoining suites https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1643033&hl=en&hid=4034720

If you want cheap – Banana Garden Villa will also take 7 if 2 are under 6. https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1643033&hl=en&hid=1070277

Thanks so much for your prompt replies – unfortunately we’ll have 11, 9, 7, & 2 years at the time of travel so won’t fit in the 7 when 2 are under 6 category. I’ll keep looking!! Really enjoying your website – very inspiring!

Can you not y’know…pretend the 7 year old is 6 ? That’s super annoying! But they won’t all have the same age restriction, some will be under 12. Keep hunting!

I love vietnam , great country and it becomes better and better. Thank you for your useful article, I rewteet it already. Vietnam see also a surge in Chinese tourists, that s crazy, so soon Prices will increase

Thanks for a great blog! We are planning a trip to Vietnam from 27th Sept to 20th Oct this year. Chinese golden week is 1-7 October and I understand that Vietnam is a popular destination for Chinese tourists. Would you know how this is likely to affect our trip, or give us any advice how to avoid the hordes. Maybe there are areas in VN or types of places that they travel to less? We are planning to spend time in the north and south, not in the centre.

Thank you 🙂

Sorry, I don’t know if the Chinese tourists prefer particular places, but most of them come on organised tours, so if you check out the itineraries of most big tours and avoid those places it should be quieter. But of course that will rule out all the most popular destinations.

Hi! I am traveling to Vietnam in May and wondering how you knew what website to use for a Vietnam Visa? I want to make sure we are getting a valid visa but at the same time, not overpaying!

We used 2 different ones, but off the top of my head now I can’t remember which ones. Take a look at their reviews and be wary of fake reviews. You don’t actually get a visa, you get a letter of approval so that you’ll get your visa on arrival. Anyone who says they’ll get you an actual visa is a scam. Also the group letters, where your letter is shared between a few other people ( e-mailed separately) – that’s totally legit. The others will see limited details, it’s cheaper, this is the way we’ve always done it.

Update to the ever-changing visa system; we arrived by air to Vietnam this month (still here) with an Australian passport and got a visa before arriving. It was still muddy trying to figure it all out as their website wasn’t all too clear and adding to the confusion was every blog/review/website I read said app. letter+stamping. In the end I applied directly through Vietnam Immigration for an e-visa, $25US each and got stamped through at the airport with no extra cost. No approval letter etc just had to print our conformation of visa approval and take it through to get stamped.

It’s also dependent on your nationality and where you’re applying from. We’re on UK passports and on the road. I know a lot of Australians go to their Vietnamese embassy in Australia to sort visas out.

For me, the most interesting place in Ho Chi Minh City is the Museum of War Remnants. The photos are drastic but it’s worth seeing them.

Yep, it’s absolutely fascinating. The war history is a massively important part of any visit to Vietnam.

Wonderful reading! You brought me back memories from my experience in Vietnam – really magical place.

Hello! Thanks for writing a great blog! It has been fun to read! Any suggestions for first time parents traveling WITHOUT their kiddo to Vietnam? My husband and I are considering a 2 week trip this summer, and after visiting several developing countries in my early 20’s, I’m nervous to travel somewhere that requires shots, consideration about drinking the water, bugs, and eating certain foods. I NEVER used to consider those things, but somehow I’ve turned into a worry wart after having our daughter. Any tips/suggestions would be helpful, or even some words to calm the mom worry in me haha!

We had no tummy trouble AT ALL in Vietnam. Times have changed, it’s rare these days to have problems anywhere unless you’re unlucky enough to pick up a virus. It’s happened to us maybe 4 times in 6 years of travel and the sickest we’ve been was in London with norovirus…does that help? I doubt you need many shots for Vietnam. Our doctor told us not to bother with any for a short trip to Thailand before we became full time travellers, but you have to do what makes you comfortable. We ate ALL the food in Vietnam. Every leaf at every street stall. We had no problems. But do always give your chopsticks a good wipe ( locals do) and I always make sure leaves get a good dunk in the hot soup if I can, but we ate salady leaves many, many times. We had clean drinking water on tap in our house there, I imagine many do and restaurants should know what they’re doing. Nobody wants to kill off their customers, particularly not if their customers are the locals. Maybe really touristy restaurants are worse than the places the locals eat? And don’t trust all the fake reviews on Trip Advisor.

Alyson, do you have the Expats facebook page regarding the airbnb accommodation? Hoping to find somewhere homey to stay for about a month.

There’s Danang and Hoi An Expats or Hoi An Expats, I think. The place we rented was direct with the owner, contact details for Dao are in the Living in Hoi An post. But most of the house rentals are for 3 month minimum. If you’d like me to introduce you to Dao directly just find me on Facebook.

Hi Alison. What an inspiring blog, thanks a million! We are planning travelling with our 11 & 6 year old children somewhere to Asia in May / June. I want the kids to experience different life and I believe that backpacking is the way.. Vietnam would be our choice but I wonder what would the weather be like this time of the year and whether you would suggest any region or other country cause of that? Many thanks. Paula

It depends what part of Vietnam Paula. Where were you thinking?

With all honesty, we do not have a set plan and are open for suggestions. We are not fans of big cities, but that’s pretty much it. My children love adventures, floating villages and sleeping on the boat seems great, but if it would rain a lot that’s a much less fun. X

I think Central Vietnam is good in May June but the north and south might be hotter and wet. Central gets wet in October / November / December… I think. Then lovely and cool until about April.

HI Alison! Thanks to your blog we have now booked 3 weeks off work to travel. Would you be able to advise on itinerary? We thinking of flying to Hanoi and flying back from Ho Chi Minth? should we buy tickets before applying for visa? X

3 weeks is cutting it a bit fine. I’ve done that trip in 4 weeks and it fits perfectly but for a short holiday you’ll have to pick your highlights and skip some parts. No you normally buy the tickets first. It’s up to you really. What parts and places most interest you in Vietnam? Then you just string them together in the most cost/time effective way. Sorry, I’m still in the Himalayas so very short on time.

Thanks. Should we finish in Hoi An? My kids love beaches and sea so we would love to spend there 5-7 days. Xx

Hoi An has a couple of beaches but we only went to them maybe 3 times in 6 months. To me, they didn’t seem that great. The restaurants on the beach are expensive and not very good, the sand is covered in deck chairs and umbrellas, that’s not my cup of tea. Also if it’s stormy they’re unusable. The sand washed away and strong surf closed them down. My Ironman husband couldn’t swim there and he was desperate to train for an event. But like I say, we’re not beach people, no interest at all really, so I’m not a good judge of beaches. I think to miss the Cu Chi Tunnels and the museums of HCM would be a great shame though. To me that’s a huge highlight of Vietnam, learning about that part of history and the incredible Vietnamese resilience. Hoi An Old Town and the rice paddies and farms between there and the beach are wonderful though. And of course Hoi An is famous for food and the street food is cheap and superb.

Thank you so much for your efforts in making this wonderful travel guide. You’re so right on about the food in Vietnam which is just so delicious, healthy yet cheap. For street foods, I suggest visiting Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, for unique tastes, Hue is the best place. Hoi An would be the destination for cheap dishes.

This is an amazing travel guide. I have read so much about Vietnam but this has so many important links covering everything I need in one single place. I would really love to visit this beautiful country dotted with history, architecture and amazing landscapes. Pinned it for my future travel

Great article! Vietnam is really a nice destination to visit in Southeast Asia. The country is loaded with world class attractions..

Hi Alyson, Love your article. Can you please tell me if there are many yoga studios in Hoi An? I am hoping to get a job teaching yoga somewhere in Vietnam. Hoi An looks beautiful and I like that it’s smaller than the big cities. I am worried about the floods though as I would be there from October onwards. Do you think it’s best I go somewhere else in Vietnam until the rainy season has passed? If so where else would you recommend? Thanks for your help.

Look up Nomads Yoga, they have a Facebook page. If you can find them on a map of Hoi An that area does not flood and was, in fact, where we lived. Very convenient for everything. The other side of Hoi An, which is very popular with expats and nomads, did have flooding. There is yoga over there too and there is yoga on the beaches, but I know Nomads, they have a nice vegetarian ( maybe vegan) cafe too. It’s near Jack’s Cat Cafe and the main bus stop.

That Vietnam Visa Checker widget is very convenient. Didn’t know such thing existed ! Good article overall Do not miss Ninh Binh next time your come to Vietnam.

great article, it made me miss Vietnam so much plus reading about Sapa, where we haven’t been made me want to go there even more, all the best ania

Thank you for visiting Vietnam, there are many places you should explore such as Ha Noi, Ha Long, Sapa, Da Nang, Hue, Hoi An

WoW what an amazing guide that you have written Alyson, and may I compliment you on every area that you have covered, all about your Vietnam stay with your family as well, some humourus moments gave me a good laugh.

I will be moving to Hoi An early next year for good, if all goes well, I have found your Blog very very helpful in a lot of Areas, especially about long term rentals, the people, and the food, the weather, being a retired chef I can’t wait to get into the kitchen over there and learn new skills.

Regards David

My pleasure. We hope to be back there soon too.

Hello Alyson My daughter and I are planning to visit in March 2019. Have been doing a lot of reading but still unsure if we should book a tour rather than trying it ourselves. The general consensus is that its ok to just arrive and do it yourself. I am a bit concerned about transport and hotels without having anything booked in advance. Have read conflicting reports about using bus and train ? We would also like to go to Cambodia for a few days if possible. Any suggestions in this regard would be extremely helpful.

Thanks kindly

I would book your hotels in advance. Wandering round with bags and a child in the heat isn’t much fun and these days doesn’t really save you money. The only problem is, if you have a hotel booked and then you can’t get on the bus/train/plane for whatever reason, so i’d lean towards booking those too, if possible. Unless you’re comfortable doing what we do and just booking places the day before, once our travel is confirmed. The trains are absolutely fine but time consuming on a short trip. The buses…well…I’m not keen. I worry about crashes, but on the whole driving on Vietnam is slower than in Thailand and death rates lower. But accidents must be pretty rare, I’d just rather take a train as they’re comfortable and we always have plenty of time. Local public buses are pretty rickety. For shorter trips you can always just use an uber or taxi. Fly the big hops maybe. The big tourist / backpacker buses are very modern but have double decker sleeping/seating. They’re almost like beds, but not long enough for a tall westerner to recline.

Hi, I ‘m America,and applied for Evisa and my 2 kids . I got approval e visa today , but not my kids . Regarding to application, I filled 3 appplications and 3 fee. Did I do anything wrong? On the website, I did give an option to put kids under 14 , name . However, the appplication states on the same passports with parents.

I’ve not heard of kids travelling on the same passport as parents for about 20 years sorry. Do they not have their own passports? Ours had their own passports, own visas, always do.

Yes, they have their own visa . That what I filled their own e-visa application. However, my e visa got approved today with an email notification . I didn’t receive anything regarding for both of my kids even though I applied on the same day. I’m getting sorry whether I need to fill their names on my application..

Ours all came together all on one sheet.

Hello Alyson, Thanks heaps for providing such a thorough blog. My wife and I will be arriving in Ho Chi Minh city in late July. I’d love to experience Ha Long Bay. I was just wondering roughly how much it cost to get there from Ho Chi Minh City. I read that you fly there then a car ride to boat, is this correct? We’re Australian so if you could possibly convert for us that would be awesome. Do you have a boat you recommend to travel on? Thanks heaps for any information you can pass on Dale

Dale, hi. Flying is much quicker than the train / bus, yes, only a couple of hours, at least 2 days otherwise. It costs anywhere between $100-$200 US. The best thing is to hop over to Skyscanner and see what flights are available for your dates, prices fluctuate, find the best deal. I haven’t taken a Halong Bay cruise in years sorry so can’t recommend one currently operating.

Hey Alyson, thanks heaps for sparing your time to help, greatly appreciated 😉

Hi Alyson, Great blog with some fab info about Vietnam’. Myself and some friends are traveling out in July and I was wondering if you could provide some information on traveling between Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. What would you recommend? The flights are very expensive and long… surprisingly. But I heard many bad reports about the buses… however I can’t get any recent info, last reviews were 2010/2012! Any advice? Thanks

I haven’t crossed from Vietnam into neighbouring countries since 2001. But we’ve crossed Thailand to Cambodia recently. You’ll find a full post on our site, I think if you search Bangkok to Siem Reap. Buses in Thailand are great. Cambodian buses…not so good. And Laos…not so good either and terribly windy roads. But the overland trip from the south of Vietnam, by boat and bus to Luang Prabang is pretty amazing. It involved speedboats and crash helmets and was pretty crazy. Flying is for wimps 😉

Thank you so much for your reply, I will check out the blog and have a read. I want to travel from Vietnam though as we will only have about 6 days to see both Cambodia and Laos. I am also wondering about the Vietnam visa… we will be in Vietnam about 13 days then travel into Cambodia and Laos then back to Vietnam to fly home. So in totally more than 15 days… but multiple entry. Any info on either or not we need a visa? Website really not clear. Thank you

That’s a messy sort of visa problem. The tourist is 15 days so you’ll need a month or 3 month multiple entry and you MUST have the right documentation before you fly or you won’t be getting on the plane. The tourist visa is only for flying in. But depends on nationality too, it’s different for UK, Australia, US. Which is what I’m about to do, I’m at the airport about to board. Best of luck

There are so many things to see and experience in Vietnam. Their food, culture, and amazing destinations are fantastic.

This is wonderful Alyson! I’ll be visiting Vietnam soon so I’ve been researching non-stop about the country, glad I came across this page. This is a very comprehensive look at the country. I specifically love the theater and arts scene that’s featured here, will definitely check it out.

Great Blog Alyson, My wife is originally from HCMC, and in 2015 we took the opportunity to visit her homeland for 3 weeks, did a tour of Hanoi and ha long bay, fell in love with the country and the people, 2017 we went back for 2 months, we spent w week in Vung Tau, beautiful place great food, rented a scooter from our hotel and cruised all over the place, took a flight from HCMC to Na Trang ($33.00 CAD) each one way, spent a week there also riding all over and checking out the sites, Decided to travel by sleeper bus to Dalat and spent about 4 days there, seemed funny to see locals wearing winter jackets in the evening( me in short pants and a tank top lol, but Dalat is beautiful, we found once we got to HCMC traveling around was quite reasonable, took a tour to Thailand, Bangkok and Pattaya( 5 days 4 nights all in $400.00 CAD, we are heading back in 2019 for another 2 months and who knows maybe this will be my retirement home

I don’t blame you Tim, it’s a wonderful country.

As a Vietnamese, I thank you so much for giving your nice words to our country. I love to read more and more your post in the future. If you have a chance to travel Vietnam again, I will highly recommend you some landscape like The prison Island ” Con Dao” where is really beautiful and peaceful, it bring a lot of historical stories. I really hope you will come there and wrote about Con Dao.

Hi Alyson I’ve just discovered your site and I am finding your information regarding blogging very useful as an about to be blogger. Love reading about Vietnam – My husband and I took our girls flash packing through Vietnam over Christmas 2016. One of my favourite places was Son Trach in Phong Nha-Ke Bang national park. It’s truly beautiful and the caves are jaw droppingly amazing. If you like to get away from the crowds and haven’t been already, I highly recommend a few days, even just to visit the most accessible caves. Thanks for sharing your travels. Cheryl

Hey Alyson! great post! I’ve been living in Da Nang for eight months and think it’s worthy of a mention. It has beautiful beaches, plenty of ESL teaching opportunities, bars, restaurants and thriving expat scene! It doesn’t have much exposure which has led me to create the Da Nang Teacher website. Have you visited Da Nang? if so, what did you think? It’s only 40 minutes from Hoi An, which I personally find too touristy! Oh also, do you accept guest posts RE Nam Les post? I would love to share more about Da Nang! Looking forward to hearing from you!

I’ve been to Danang many times but not posted about it ( lack of time!). Also I’m not a fan, too big city for me, I like countryside. Handy for the shops, cinema and Starbucks though. If you’d like to write about Danang for our site that would be great, please send your pitch to [email protected] . Always looking for new quality content from expert sources. 8 months I’d consider expert, I hate it when people write posts after being somewhere for 5 minutes. I’ll be covering Marble Mountain soon, but Danang is all yours if you want it. I also don’t have any decent photos of Danang, which presumably you do. Cheers!

Those are really good tips for families traveling to Vietnam – a beautiful country!

Alyson, Would you be ale to post an example / picture of the pre-visa document? (visa on arrival) I have received one but when i have read your blog i am worried now if i was scammed or not. The other way is that i can send you my document and you would check it. I have tried the embassy and airlines but they don’t want to talk abut it unless it is provided by them. Regards & Thank you stressed Andy 🙂

We have never done it Andy, we only go in on the 3 month visa, not the e visa 15 day exemption. Sorry

Thx Alyson. I was wondering if it looks the same as you have described with some other travelers names on the document as mine looks. 🙂 We do take our friends daughter with us this Year and we would not like to be stopped on the border…. That would be silly…lol Any help from anyone reading / traveling to Vietnam would be helpful 🙂 Thx

Yes, that’s correct, there will be other people, unless you pay the extra for exclusive documents.

I really love Vietnamese Street Food. I want to travel to Vietnam and i will travel to Vietnam in next year. Thank you for your post

Hi Alyson, thanks a lot for your article. I’m going to vietnam in april and want to go straight from Ho Chi Minh to Hoi An. How hard can i find a shuttle bus connecting two these destinations? They say that cyclo (xnh lo or something else) is another speciality in hoi an. Have you tried it? And can you tell me some address to get some tailor clothes in Hoi An?

There are plenty of buses and coaches but I’d highly recommend the train as more comfortable and probably safer. And yes there are cycle rickshaws in both Saigon and Hoi An. The Hoi An ones always seem to be pedalling Chinese or Korean tour groups around. I’ve never wanted to use one as they are purely a tourist attraction here, whereas in say, parts of India ( Saigon too, moreso) they are a way of getting from A to B.

Cindy, is it possible to post the VoA doc whit your names as i have wrote above? I just wanted to compare my document with yours if it looks the same . 🙂 If you won’t like it i will understand. many thanks

I am heading to Vietnam soon (in 3 weeks for 3 weeks!) with 2 teenage children in tow, We’ll be flying into Hanoi and then taking our time to travel down south before heading over to Thailand. Our first stop however will be Sapa (2 nights already booked), then back to Hanoi for 2 pre booked nights, and then we take it all in our stride. My question is – what is the best way to get from Hanoi (we land 9.ooam) to Sapa – preferably the fastest – cheapest, can you recommend ideas? It is my children’s first overseas adventure and I do plan to stay more to the backpacker/budget trip with a few hotels along the way. We also plan to spend alot of time by the water, in water parks and beaches – can you advise good places to visit and stay at? We don’t have to do everything, I am happy to spend a week in one spot if that feels right for us 🙂 Thank You! N

Great article! Vietnam is my next destination. I am especially curious about the food

I love Vietnam, Vietnam is not small like you think. In your destination, I think it’s not full of Vietnam. You can travel to Mekong Delta, Hue, Phu Quoc, Dalat, Danang… and a lot of other places in Vietnam you must to see. Now, I’m living Vietnam, I love Vietnamese people and Vietnam culture

We love Vietnam too and have been to all of those places except Dalat, we will be there in a week or two.

Thank you all for your comments. Many people do not know the interesting things of Da Lat. If I write about it can you post on the page?

We write our own posts sorry Nam, but if you could write a basic guide I could maybe add to it and include our own experiences when we visit.

Hi. I am currently working in Da Lat and I am studying about foreigners’ preference for Dalat. I searched and read many pages. And Da Lat is rarely mentioned. Can someone tell me why?

Not mentioned here because I’ve never been there! No particular reason, if we go, I’ll write about it.

Well I think it depends on itineraries, people who visit Ho Chi Minh would prefer Da Lat and people would visit the north would prefer Sapa.

What are the highlights of Dalat? What does it have to offer tourists? We’re in Vietnam again now ad may be able to visit this time.

In my opinion, Dalat is a popular destination for Vietnamese because the weather in Saigon and surrounding area is so hot but Dalat weather is cool. For the westerners coming to Vietnam, most of them come from the weather like that so they may want to spend time for other destinations. Sapa in the North is similar to Dalat for the weather but there are more things to do and discover than Dalat so the information about Sapa is richer. Hope you are happy with my idea!

Great article! Vietnam is my next destination. I am especially curious about the food 🙂

Vietnam is a paradise of food. Most of people love the streetfood in Vietnam! Welcome to Vietnam!

We found even the taxi drivers lovely!!! We got the same driver twice and he remembered us. Best place in the world, and the Vietnamese are divine people.

Hi guys, great article! Will you be in Hoi an for their lantern festival, Orla

We were here for last month’s full moon night and will be here for the coming one, yes. The next one should be quite an event with dragon dances froom local kids, but there are lanterns on the river every night in Hoi An.

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Wander-Lush

Visit Vietnam: The Ultimate Vietnam Travel Guide

Going to Vietnam the first time was life-changing for sure… The food, culture, landscape, and smell; they’re all inseparable. It just seemed like another planet; a delicious one that sort of sucked me in and never let go. Anthony Bourdain

Land of the Blue Dragon

Vietnam: Where motorbikes outnumber the people. For most travellers, this country is synonymous with three things: Frenetic cities, incredible outdoor adventures, and some of the best food on earth.

After my first visit to Vietnam when I travelled the entire length of the country on the Reunification Express , I told myself that unlike the 97% of people who only visit once, I’d be back. Years later, I moved to Hanoi to work with an NGO – an experience I’ll never forget. I have more dear friends in Hanoi than almost any other city. Vietnam feels like a second home to me.

From the jagged peaks of Ha Giang to the backwaters of the Mekong Delta , the one thing Vietnam isn’t lacking is variety. Join the crush inside the canary yellow walls of Hoi An’s UNESCO Ancient Town , chase dragons in Hue , then find room to breathe in one of rural Northern Vietnam’s hidden oases .

Between the velvety rice terraces of Sapa and Mu Cang Chai and the prickly limestone karsts of Halong Bay and Ninh Binh , you’ll find sand dunes in Mui Ne , waterwheels in Pu Luong , tea fields in Thai Nguyen , and hundreds of sweet hamlets and fascinating small cities in between.

From rustic homestays to boutique apartments, sipping cocktails in a Saigon skybar to knocking back a glass at a bia hoi in Hanoi. Vietnam might come off as a little aloof, but at the end of the day, she certainly knows how to treat her guests.

Vietnam travel essentials

Please note: Some of these links are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more .

Late February to April (spring shoulder season) for cooler weather.

How long in Vietnam?

3-4 full days for Hanoi; 2 weeks for the highlights; 3-4 weeks for a good overview.

Daily budget

45-60 USD per person per day (mid-range hotel; restaurant meals; taxis; museum tickets).

Getting there

Fly into Hanoi or Saigon; bus from any neighbouring country.

Vietnam visa

eVisa/VOA (single entry; 30 days) or visa-free for some.

Getting around

Domestic flights (Viet Jet, Jetstar); train; bus/minivan.

Where to stay

Family-run guesthouses, homestays or hotels.

Tours & experiences

Food tours, history walks and trekking.

Explore Vietnam

Discover Hanoi’s local side plus all the best things to do in Vietnam with my latest travel guides.

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Hanoi to Halong Bay: The Definitive Travel Guide for 2024

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Where to Stay in Ninh Binh: 12 Fantastic Hotels & Bungalows for Every Budget

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My vietnam favourites.

Trekking in the rice fields around Ta Phin, Sapa.

Must-eat meal

A plate of Pho Cuon in Hanoi’s Truc Bach neighbourhood.

local experience

Rolling up to Hanoi’s Long Bien produce market at 2am.

best souvenirs

Propaganda posters from Hanoi & Hmong textiles.

5 Vietnamese Travel Vloggers To Watch

These travel vloggers always deliver their honest reviews to their audience.

When it comes to traveling, the sky is not even the limit. We always have so many options at hand — an ideal beach vacation can be in Vietnam like Nha Trang, Da Nang, Ha Long Bay, or Quy Nhon or outside Vietnam like Pattaya in Thailand or Bali in Indonesia. The struggle is always about which one to choose among the sea of options.

That is when travel vloggers come into the picture, bringing their perspectives to help you make the right decisions. In this article, we introduce five Vietnamese travel vloggers who not only have rich experiences in traveling but also provide viewers with honest reviews without filters.

Khoai Lang Thang

Vlogging for five years now, Khoai Lang Thang has already become a familiar name to many Vietnamese. His real name is Dinh Vo Hoai Phuong, a 31-year-old native of Ben Tre. Khoai possesses a uniquely warm, soft voice that attracts the audience to his videos.

After quitting his architectural job, Hoai Phuong began his Youtube journey. His contents contain helpful information about geography, culture, and people of places he has visited. If you are a first-time watcher of Khoai Lang Thang, you will definitely be impressed with his bright smile and positive attitude.

YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok

In 2017, Chan La Ca (or Hoang Minh Tuan) had a two-month trip in the ocean, visiting various countries. When he returned, he realized he was destined to travel to places instead of sitting in the office, completing tedious tasks. Tuan wants people to know him as a travel storyteller than a travel reviewer.

In Chan La Ca's videos, the footage seems raw and close to real life. Accompanied by his compelling voice, the stories he tells and the trips he experiences greatly resonate with his subscribers. He also invests a lot in recording equipment, so be prepared to step into a cinematic world in each video from Chan.

Travip (Yeu May Bay)

In Vietnam, there is a particular vlogger who focuses on reviewing airlines — Travip or Tran Viet Phuong. Before the pandemic, he would take roughly 120 flights per year to make videos. His Youtube journey initially started with the Youtube Channel “Yeu May Bay,” then slowly developed to other personal channels.

Compared to other influencers and vloggers, Phuong started his career as a reviewer quite late, at age 35. But his background in journalism helped Travip effectively communicate his knowledge to his online viewers. Aside from his airline reviews, Travip also produces content on his experiences in hotels, resorts, or food from foreign countries like India and Indonesia.

Ly Thanh Co

Some people know Ly Thanh Co as a creative director for a popular agency, or a trainer for Marketing students, but most Vietnamese know him as a travel blogger. Starting his journey in 2015, Ly Thanh Co has traveled to 39 countries and territories. He also published three books about his experiences, namely “Thế giới rộng lớn đừng đi một mình" (The world is big so don't go by yourself), “Tuổi trẻ trong ví bạn mua được gì?" (What can you buy with youth?), and “Trăng mật với bản thân" (Honeymoon with yourself).

In Co’s opinion, if we stop experiencing, we get old faster, so he wants to spend his youthful years going to many places, exploring layers of emotions to stay young forever. At present, Cong produces much of his content on TikTok. However, on his Facebook page, you will find more in-depth sharing and tips about every trip he has been on.

Behind the name “Quy Coc Tu" is Ngo Tran Hai An, a young man from Bao Loc, Lam Dong. At the age of 18, he failed his college entrance exam. Too ashamed of his failure, he escaped to a close relative’s house and went to new places where people did not know him. Throughout these getaways, he found his new passions: exploration and photography.

Up to 2010, he had been to almost every province and city in Vietnam. In 2014, he began his career as a photojournalist, which opened doors to even more opportunities for him to visit foreign countries. Most of his videos are only 3-5-minute long but always feature mesmerizing sceneries that immediately make you want to pack your bag and go.

12 Best Travel Experiences in Vietnam voted by bloggers from around the world

Vietnam is a country of diverse beauty. Besides its awe-inspiring mountains, lush green national parks, and white-sand secluded beaches, the country also surprises visitors with mouth-watering food, warm hospitality, and delightful culture.

With so many things to see and do in Vietnam, first-time visitors might find it challenging to select an ideal itinerary. “I only have 4 days in Vietnam. Where should I go? What should I see?” , asked many travelers whom I have consulted while I was working at a travel agency here.

To help travelers make the most of their time in this beautiful country, 12 bloggers from all over the world have collaborated on this article to suggest the best travel experiences in Vietnam . If you are looking for some Vietnam travel inspirations as well, check out this list and note down the experiences that you find most interesting!

Are you ready to discover what Vietnam has to offer? Fasten your seatbelt and start your journey to discover the 12 best travel experiences in Vietnam!

Hiking in Sapa

Suggested by Ella from ManyMoreMaps

Visiting Sapa in the far north was one of my best travel experiences in Vietnam during my three-week trip there. Sapa is the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the larger cities. You can marvel at the picturesque landscapes, slow down and then do some great hiking.

Many visitors arrive in Sapa by overnight train or bus from Hanoi, and there are lots of tour operators in the town you can book a hiking tour through. I spent one night and two days in Sapa, and stayed in a gorgeous hotel overlooking the iconic rice paddies. However, there is accommodation for any budget, including an array of homestays for a more authentic experience.

I booked two days of trekking, which involved walking along the Muong Hoa valley to Y Linh Ho and the Lao Chai village. This is where the indigenous people of the H’Mong live. It was fascinating to meet these people and learn about their age-old customs and traditions, and marvel at their colorful traditional dresses. Outside the villages, the hiking tour also took us to breath-taking waterfalls and through mile after mile of rice paddies.

Hiking in Sapa is such a unique experience in Vietnam as it gives you a real taste of the northern highlands. This area of the country is completely different from anywhere else in Vietnam and is an absolutely unmissable stop on any Vietnam itinerary.

Joining a Cooking Class in Hoi An

Suggested by Caroline Keyzor from CKTravels

Vietnam is a food lover’s dream with many affordable and delicious dishes available from all manner of street food vendors and restaurants.

One fun food-related activity to do when visiting Vietnam is a cooking class and we enjoyed a half-day experience with a highly rated company called Hoi An Eco Cooking Class. The school is located in the countryside just outside Hoi An old town and is surrounded by water coconut palms.

As part of the cooking class, you get the chance to ride through the palms in one of their traditional bamboo basket boats whilst fishing for purple crabs! This provided some great photo opportunities and was really good fun!

As the school is located a bit further out of the main town, transport to and from your hotel is provided and a quick visit to a local fresh market is included on the way there. The tour guide gave us a brief overview of the different and exotic Asian ingredients, then once we arrived at the school we were given a demonstration of some traditional Vietnamese cooking techniques including how to make our own rice paper rolls! 

The main part of the class is preparing and cooking 6 different dishes which included popular Vietnamese foods such as Phở Bò (beef noodle soup), fresh spring rolls, and Bánh Xèo (crispy pancake). The class was well staffed and the whole kitchen process worked well and ran like clockwork, plus food allergies are taken seriously and it was made clear how important it was not to mix-up your food and chopping boards.

Then in the end, you all get to sit down together and eat everything you cooked with an ice-cold beer – a great activity for foodies! 

Exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels

Suggested by Delilah from Our Travel Mix

One experience that really stood out to me during my first trip to Vietnam was exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels in Ho Chi Minh City.

The tunnels are one of the top  attractions in Ho Chi Minh City  and are a must-visit in Vietnam. The network of tunnels was fabricated by the Viet Cong, the communist troops during the Vietnam War from 1955 to 1975.

The Cu Chi Tunnels served multiple purposes, including a nexus for transport to and from the villages and a way to conceal and hide from American soldiers. Having the network of tunnels would have quite literally saved lives as the opposition would not have known of their whereabouts.

I had learned about the Vietnam war in high school, but only a brief introduction. It wasn’t until I booked a trip to Vietnam that I started reading more into Vietnam’s history, and the more I read, the more I became intrigued.

Visiting the tunnels is a way to see what life was like for the Vietnamese soldiers during the Vietnam War. The tunnels are both short in height and narrow in width, making the experience quite claustrophobic. This was an eye-opener for me; not only did it provide me with a hands-on experience involving a part of history I find so interesting, but it also made me appreciate how fortunate I have been in my life, not having to endure a war or extreme hardships.

Visiting the Temple of Literature in Hanoi

Suggested by Stefanie from The Hidden Coconut

One of my favorite things to do while traveling is visiting historical sites. I love learning about all the places you read about in books, in real life. 

The Temple of Literature in Hanoi is tucked away by high walls just outside of the Old Town. Its original purpose was a university to study under Confucius. It was very prestigious and only accepted the brightest students and scholars.

When you visit the temple you’ll learn about the 5 different areas or gardens that act as levels in a student’s training. Students were required to complete all the training in order to move into the next area. The most popular area is the turtle pond, known as The Well of Heavenly Clarity. There are large statues of turtles that are engraved with the names of graduates from the school. It is believed to be good luck to rub the turtle’s head before an exam, but in order to preserve the statues, guests are no longer allowed to touch them. 

I happened to visit the temple near the end of the Vietnamese school year in April. So, many local graduates came to the temple to take their graduation pictures with their class. I also caught the attention of a little 8-year-old boy and his mother while I was sitting on a bench. He wanted to practice speaking English with me, and it made the visit to the temple quite memorable since I, myself, am an ESL teacher.

Escaping the crowds at hidden beaches in Quy Nhon 

Suggested by Rose Munday from Where Goes Rose?

While Vietnam is a fantastic place to visit for culture and scenery lovers, there are some corners (Hoi An, looking at you) that have become mighty busy lately.

If you’re keen to escape the crowds and find peace, there’s nowhere better than Quy Nhon Vietnam, one of the best-kept secrets in Vietnam. This coastal area in Southern Vietnam is lesser-known to tourists so it’s the perfect place to observe colorful local life while relaxing on the beach and eating fresh seafood.

Part of Quy Nhon juts off the mainland, creating a peninsular with a large sweeping cove. You can arrive in Quy Nhon city by bus or train but I’d advise swiftly catching a taxi over the water to a small beach town called Nhon Hai. Aside from a few Buddhist temples and local restaurants and street food stands, there’s not a great deal here – that’s the beauty of the place! You can swim, snorkel, relax on peaceful beaches and watch as the locals play football once the school and work day finishes. 

The best place to stay is Nhon Hai Beach Hostel which has both dorm and private rooms overlooking the ocean. The generous breakfast plates of tropical fruits and juices are delicious, and healthy too. Relax with a cocktail as you watch the sun go down to end a perfect day in Vietnam.

Exploring the Waters of Ninh Binh

Suggested by Lee Nelson from The Travel Scribes

Affectionately known as ‘Ha Long Bay on Land’, Ninh Binh or – more specifically the small riverside town of Tam Coc – is a jewel in Vietnam’s already crowded travel crown.

Think limestone karsts soaring from the land around you, endless fields of flowering lilies, temples hidden in the mountainside, and a relaxed, laidback way of life as you explore it all from the back of a bicycle or, better yet, a boat. That’s since Tam Coc, located easily between the larger cities of Hanoi and Hue, is best explored by taking a boat trip on one of the many glittering rivers and lakes.

Three are a number of different rivers to explore in the Ninh Binh area, the two most famous being the Tam Coc and Trang An tours. The first is accessible directly from the town of Tam Coc as you float down the Ngo Dong river, ably steered by a local using their feet (yes, their feet!) to guide you down the river. This breath-taking tour sees you cruise through three caves, miles of rice fields and of course those stunning limestone cliffs.

Further afield is the UNESCO World Heritage Area of Trang An which, like Tam Coc, sees you float down the exquisite river on one of three different routes. The longest of these will take you through nine incredibly impressive caves (or grottoes) that have been carved out by the gushing river, as well as a number of temples and pagodas that make for some very Instagrammable content.

Regardless of your  itinerary in Vietnam , it’s definitely worth adding the waters of Ninh Binh to your agenda; a uniquely Vietnamese travel experience you will never forget!

Enjoying a Coffee and Pastry at the Famous Metropole Hotel in Hanoi

Suggested by Julie from The Red Headed Traveler

Anyone who’s read Graham Greene’s  The Quiet American  knows that a pilgrimage to the Sofitel Metropole , a legendary grand dame of hotel royalty if there ever was one, is a requisite stop during a visit to Hanoi, especially since for most travelers, having enough đồng to stay there is out of their reach (at least that’s how it was for me when planning my time in the Vietnamese capital).

I adored Greene’s iconic work ever since I was assigned to read it in high school, one of the rarely assigned readings I actually enjoyed and whose characters and story stayed with me all these years. I knew were I to ever get to Hanoi I’d definitely enjoy a glass of the ubiquitous Vietnamese iced coffee (or cà phê sữa đá when you want to look for it on a menu) at one of the patio tables of La Terrasse, the alfresco dining option of the Metropole. I’d imagine Thomas Fowler, Greene’s protagonist, sitting at a table beside me, also taking in the always bustling activity of the city’s historic French Quarter.

And naturally, to go with my iced coffee (since let’s be real the lone complimentary cookie I was given was not going to cut it) I ordered a pastry, one exquisite enough to grace the shelves of any Paris  patisserie  and with Paris prices to match too. But it was worth it.

My time in Hanoi had begun in the city’s chaotic and sensory overwhelming Old Quarter and ended in the tranquil French Quarter, oozing historic charm, all the while allowing my high school self to truly bring to life a literary work of art.

Reaching the northern-most point in Vietnam

Suggested by Fiona from Fiona Travels From Asia

One of my best travel experiences in Vietnam is definitely reaching Lung Cu Flag Tower, which is the country’s northernmost point.

Situated at 1470 meters above sea level, Lung Cu Flag Tower boasts a 360-degree picturesque view of vast terraced fields, breathtaking mountains and fertile river valleys. Climbing up to the foot of the tower and then to its top can be quite strenuous, but the view is totally worth it. Everything just looks so beautiful up there!

Lung Cu Flag Tower is located in Dong Van Ward, Ha Giang province. I made it there during my 4-day trip to Ha Giang from Hanoi. Ha Giang is one of Vietnam’s off-the-beaten-path destinations, featuring mesmerizing natural landscape and rich ethnic minority culture. If you want to see some of the best scenery in Vietnam, Ha Giang is the place to be!

Crossing Vietnam by Motorbike

Suggested by Campbell & Alya from Stingynomads

I traveled in South East Asia for about 18 months and exploring Vietnam by motorcycle was still one of my favorite adventures.

The country is perfectly suited for a road trip. It is long and narrow so driving north to south you drive close to most of the highlights.

Traffic is insane, with more than 37 million motorbikes registered here driving is not for the fainthearted, but the upside is there is always someone who can fix your bike if you have mechanical problems! When we had a breakdown someone always showed up and could fix our bikes for only a couple of dollars.

We bought bikes on the streets of Hanoi for about$250 each. Two Chinese copies of the Honda Win 110cc manual shift motorbike. We had some awesome adventures, dodging trucks, or scooters transporting everything you can imagine; cages with chickens, pigs, and up to a family of 4 on one bike!

The trip crossing the country can be done in about 2 weeks, it however took us more than a month. We did it slowly, spending time in beautiful towns like Dalat, Hanoi, Hoi An and Nha Trang scuba diving, hiking and enjoying the food, culture and nature.

After about a month, 2500km later, we sold our bikes on the streets of Ho Chi Minh for $125 each, if you have patience or luck you can even make a profit when selling your bike.

Reaching the Highest Point in the Indochinese Peninsula

Suggested by Yara Mowafy from Tayaramuse

Big surprises come in small packages.  My small package story began at a hotel. Imagine waking up to a sunny morning in the hills of Sa Pa, following an itinerary that your hotel put together, then suddenly finding yourself 3,147 meters or 10,326 feet high! This journey was a complete and utter surprise to me and by far one of the coolest moments of my life. 

I’m not exaggerating when I say I had no idea what was going on or where I was headed. My hotel suggested I visit Fansipan early that morning since the sky was clear. I assumed it was an ancient temple or a viewpoint of the famous rice fields. I got my things together, received a small package including an entry ticket to the site and headed to the train station. Little did I know, that on the other end of that train track was just the beginning of a very elevated journey. 

After boarding the train and riding for a short 10 minutes through the lush green mountains of Sa Pa, riders reach the welcome area for visitors. And right there, the adventure continued to unravel, and I was loaded onto a cable car!

Now let me tell you this cable car ride went on for at least 20 minutes, going straight upwards. Picture this – first, you’re a little above the ground, then you’re staring straight down at the rice fields, you’re over large hills, then mountains, and spending a decent chunk of time inside physical clouds all while sitting inside a completely see-through cable car.

And just like that, you go from touching the ground to reaching the highest point in the Indochinese Peninsula at Fansipan Mountain, Vietnam. 

Getting Clothes made in Hoi An

Suggested by Nicola Rae from Seenicwander

Hoi An is a must-see city in central Vietnam and one of my favorite places to visit in the country. With a charming old quarter that is illuminated by thousands of colorful lanterns at night, it’s no wonder Hoi An is popular among travelers. 

One of my favorite experiences in Hoi An was getting clothing made. Hoi An has a famous cloth and fabric market where you can get custom clothing items designed for affordable prices. I visited the Sewing Bee clothing shop inside the market on a friend’s recommendation, and I was immediately awestruck by all the beautiful fabrics. 

Bee, the owner of a sewing bee, had a book of designs I could choose from. I was also able to show her images from Pinterest and the internet. I had a few dresses I’d seen online that I loved and Bee was able to create them from scratch. We sketched out what the garments would look like and then Bee took me on a walk through the never-ending rows of fabric. Luckily, she was able to point out materials that would work well for our designs and patterns that she thought were flattering. 

After I had chosen my fabric and Bee had taken my measurements, she informed me that I could come back for fitting in two days! I was shocked because I’d ordered three garments, but Bee was confident. Just two days later, I went back to the market and tried on each item for alterations. There were a few little tweaks to be made, but I was able to pick up the finished items later that same day. 

My clothes turned out amazing and they were pretty much all I wore for the rest of my trip in Vietnam! The service and quality were fantastic, and now I have beautiful custom clothing that reminds me of the magical little city of Hoi An. 

Watching Water Puppet Show in Hanoi

Suggested by Neha from Travelmelodies

One thing that you can’t leave Vietnam without experiencing is the Water Puppet Show. This traditional art form dates back as far as 11  th  century and is still preserved and performed.

When we watched the water puppet show in Hanoi, we were left spellbound by the aura created by the talented artists. The best place to watch the show is at the Thang Long Water puppet theater, although there are many other places to watch the water puppet show. There was even a live music band playing traditional instruments and singing the story as the show progressed. 

There are different show timings and the popular timings do get booked fast, so it is better to book the show in advance. The tickets cost around 100,000 VND (around 4.30 USD) for the 1-hour show.

There is a small water pond as the stage for these puppets and each puppet is tied to a long pole that is held by an artist from the back of the stage who is also in the water.

Most of the shows depict a mythological story or folktale from Vietnam. The different puppets carved out of wood are brought to life in the 1-hour show and you feel them talking, dancing and jumping around in the water.

Even though the story and songs are in Vietnamese, art needs no language to connect. There is magic in the hands of these craftsmen who weave a beautiful drama merely with lifeless puppets.

Enjoying wildlife at Cat Ba National Park

Suggested by Oksana & Max from  Drink Tea & Travel . Follow their adventures on  Facebook .

Cat Ba National Park is a World Heritage Site and national gem that deserves at least a day on your Vietnam itinerary! It is home to the largest system of mangroves in the country, lush jungles and an impressive amount of wildlife. 

One of the most endangered species in the world lives here, the Vooc (white-faced monkey), alongside other monkey species, deer, and squirrels. In the waters of Cat Ba National Park, marine life is abundant. 

There are many ways to experience the park. You can travel on foot, climb the many mountains of Cat Ba National Park, or explore via water. The Ngu Lam Peak lookout is a popular hike within the park, which offers panoramic views from the top.

You can also explore the Trung Trang cave system, lounge on Khu du lịch đảo Nam Cát public beach or get out on the water near Cat Ba Island as we did.

We kayaked around Cat Ba Island and were stunned by the beauty of the area. However, the park is sadly often overshadowed or even skipped over in favor of nearby Halong Bay.

I hope this post has given you some fresh Vietnam travel inspirations . Which of these best travel experiences in Vietnam would you like to try? Or if you have been to Vietnam and want to suggest other awesome experiences, feel free to share with us by commenting below!

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31 thoughts on “ 12 Best Travel Experiences in Vietnam voted by bloggers from around the world ”

Love all the experiences you describe there! Visiting Ninh Binh was life changing to me, I just fell in love with the landscapes. Thank you for sharing!

What a great idea to get insight from so many different travel bloggers who have visited Vietnam! Really gives the readers a good perspective!

Vietnam was one of the most magical places I”ve been to! I loved every second of it! Great post!

I was just recently in Vietnam and went to some of these areas. They were fabulous and I would love to go back and see more. Your list includes some that I didn’t have time for as well as several I didn’t even know about.

Hello! Vietnam is wonderful!! I have done most of the experiences you named but I’m wondering why the Ha Giang Loop was not mentioned explicitly? Coz this was my top 1 when I was travelling in Vietnam for one month!

Hi Karolina, thank you for reading my post 😀 Ha Giang is definitely an amazing destination. I mentioned reaching the Lung Cu Flag as one of the best travel experiences I’ve ever had in Vietnam, and of course, Ha Giang is also one of the best destinations I’ve ever been to here. Glad that you also made it to Ha Giang and enjoyed the trip!

Thanks for sharing all these amazing experiences!! 🙂 I’d especially love the cooking class!

Wow! Looks like you had an absolutely epic time in Vietnam. I wish I could of said the same… I’m one with the unpopular opinion about the place. Although I’d love to go back to give the place a second chance!

This post is seriously making me so travel hungry right now! I haven’t visited anywhere new in the longest time and don’t know when I will be able to next, but Vietnam looks absolutely gorgeous and I’m going to get there as soon as I can!

What a fantastic post. I miss Vietnam so much!

Vietnam is definitely still on my bucket list! Loving the landscapes and those cute bamboo boats. Thanks for sharing all these tips 🙂

I love this post, and I agree that Sapa was also the best part of my trip to Vietnam, as it gave me the opportunity to make a special friend from the H’ mong family I stayed with, and it is such an incredible and special experience. I just LOVE Vietnam.

Such a lovely experience! I love homestay experiences in Sapa too, as the locals are so welcoming and I also get to learn a lot about the culture there as well.

love these, when I visited my favorites were Sapa and Ninh Binh but I haven’t visited the south yet so have more on my bucket list now

Vietnam boasts very diverse landscapes. If you travel south, you can find very beautiful beaches that the north doesn’t have. Definitely lots of experiences to put on your bucket list!

What a great post! I love Vietnam and my favourite was hiking in Sapa and Hoi An- truly magical!

What a great idea for a post, I’d love to visit Vietnam!

Vietnam’s on my list! Definitely pinning this for later 🙂

This is so great! love the photos and so informative!

I would love to hike in Napa!! All of Vietnam looks so so beautiful. I have yet to make it to Asia but I am hoping one day I might!

I mean *Sapa. autocorrect ugh. 🙂

Omg Vietnam is such an amazing country! I was supposed to visit this March but I had to cancel my plans. Can’t wait to be able to go there finally! 🙂

So sad that we all have to cancel or postpone our travel plans this year. Hopefully everything will be back to normal soon!

These experiences look incredible – I’d love to try the cooking class!

You have listed so many activities! I really want to visit Vietnam and I hope I will be able to go there soon and try some of your recommendations!

These all look like amazing things to do, I would probably go to the Hotel Metropole first. Saving for my next Asia trip.

Vietnam has always been on my bucketlist!

What a great selection of the best travel experiences in Vietnam. I have been to North Vietnam and have seen some places from the list. Still, so many more to see. I would love to visit Cat Ba National Park and see the wildlife there. Thanks for sharing!

I’m hoping to travel to Vietnam end of this year so hopefully I’ll be able to visit some of the places listed here.

If you have any questions about planning for your trip to Vietnam, don’t hesitate to let me know 🙂

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Vietnam Travel Guide

Last Updated: March 19, 2024

Most people either love or hate traveling in Vietnam. When I first went, there was a negative attitude towards foreign travelers (for good reason), lots of scams, and just not a lot of good vibes. But, since that trip many years ago, the country has changed a lot: it’s embraced tourism, people have opened up more, there’s fewer scams, and Ho Chi Minh City has even become a hub for digital nomads.

From exploring the Old Quarter of Hanoi to the delicious food and fancy garments of Hoi An , Vietnam has a lot to see and do so take your time. Don’t rush your trip.

This budget travel guide to Vietnam can help you plan your trip and ensure you make the most of your visit.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Vietnam

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in vietnam.

1. Tour the Mekong Delta

The delta is a 60,000-kilometer (37,000-mile) long web of interconnected waterways, which spans three Vietnamese provinces and has been used since the 4th century BCE. What I love about this area is it’s filled with small villages, pagodas, mangroves, and orchards. The best way to experience the area is to go on a boat or bike tour, where you’ll experience rural Vietnamese culture. Some of favorite things include the Cai Rang floating market for the colorful fruits and veggies and vibrant atmosphere; Vinh Trang Pagoda for its impressive golden exterior and lush gardens; and the incredible Sadec Flower Village that is stunning and serene, even if you’re not a flower enthusiast. Spend a few days really getting to know the region outside the hustle and bustle of the cities. Day trips on the river start at around 575,000 VND per person.

2. Wander Hanoi

Vietnam’s capital dates to the 3rd century BCE when it was the capital of the ancient nation of Au Lac. I love to wander around the narrow streets of the Old Quarter. It’s a great place to get a feel for the city as there are tons of vendors, smells of street food, people watching, and bustle. Some of my favorite places to visit include the One-Pillar Pagoda, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, and the Hanoi Water Puppet Theater. Be sure to check out the history museum to learn about French colonialism and Communist rule (from the Vietnamese perspective) as well as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Hanoi is also a good base for doing multi-day tours to Ha Long Bay.

3. Explore Ha Long Bay

This iconic region is home to more than 3,000 islands and is one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. The towering limestone islands are covered in lush jungles and surrounded by calm emerald waters. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s located 2-3 hours from Hanoi and travelers can take multi-day boat cruises around the islands (most are 2-5 days). During the cruise, you’ll visit floating markets, incredible beaches, massive caves, and either sleep onboard your boat or on one of the many islands. Just keep in mind that this area is super popular and is often overcrowded. Cheap tours start around 1,200,000 VND while a mid-range tour costs around 3,000,000-4,500,000 VND. Just remember that you get what you pay for and the cheaper boats might be a bit run down.

4. Hang out in Hoi An

Hoi An was a thriving port city between the 15th and 19th centuries and the architecture is incredibly well preserved (the entire Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site). It was easily my favorite place in Vietnam because I loved walking around, taking a thrilling sidecar trip in the countryside, and of course, Vietnamese cooking classes, which are great because you learn to prepare fresh fish caught right there. This place is famous for its tailors so if you’re looking to buy some custom made clothes at an inexpensive price, this is the spot to do it in. They will even ship it back to your home country.

5. Get adventurous in Sapa

This is northern Vietnam’s premier trekking area and it’s hugely popular with all sorts of travelers. Sapa is famous for its hill tribes, lush vegetation, beautiful hiking trails, and breathtaking mountains. If you’re looking to experience the scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities Vietnam has to offer, this is the place. This area is rich in culture because it is comprised of 85% ethnic Vietnamese minority groups that have different colorful traditional dress and unique styles of houses. To avoid the tourists, come during the off-season or take longer hikes to parts the crowds don’t go to.

Other Things to See and Do

1. take a free walking tour.

The first thing I do when I visit a new destination is take a free walking tour. It’s the best way to get the lay of the land, see the main sights, and connect with a local guide who can answer all my questions. Both Hanoi and HCMH (the two largest and most popular cities in the country) have a few free tours available that cover the main highlights and are a great primer to the country (Hanoi Free Walking Tours and Saigon Free Day Tours are two companies worth checking out). Just remember to tip your guide at the end!

2. Crawl through the Cu Chi Tunnels

This extensive network of tunnels spans nearly 310 miles (500 kilometers). It was utilized by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Tours involve a description of the tunnels, after which tourists are allowed to crawl about the maze and fire AK47s at shooting targets. It’s a sobering experience and not one meant for anyone claustrophobic. However, if you want to better understand the terror of the Vietnam War, this is a must-visit. Admission is around 100,000 VND per person.

3. Relax or find adventure in Dalat

Dalat is nestled in the hills of the Central Highlands and is popular with tourists who want to relax in the mountain air and those who want to participate in a host of adventure sports (such as rock climbing, ziplining, and rappelling). The hills around Dalat are filled with traditional tribal villages, which you can tour as well. Expect to pay around 2,000,000 VND per person for a full day of ziplining and rappelling around waterfalls.

4. Visit Cuc Phuong National Park

South of Hanoi lies Vietnam’s first National Park, Cuc Phuong. Covering 222 square kilometers (85 square miles), this place is home to over 2,000 species of trees and some truly rare wildlife including the Clouded Leopard, Delacour’s Langur and Owston’s Civet. It was my favorite park in all of Vietnam and the only place I didn’t find hordes of tourists. The entrance fee is 50,000 VND.

5. Explore Ho Chi Minh City

Also known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s largest city and is definitely worth exploring. Ho Chi Minh is the place to really gain an understanding of French colonialism as well as the US headquarters there during the Vietnam War, which you can learn more about at the War Remnants Museum. Like most cities in Vietnam, you’ll be met with the roar of motorbikes speeding through colonial streets. I loved Ben Thanh Market, which is a must-see for amazing food and there is a great buzz of activity within the place. Don’t miss your chance to get the best Pho soup in Ho Chi Minh, that means some of the best is right on the side of the street.

6. Get active in Mui Ne

Despite being a fishing village, Mui Ne has a significant tourism scene due to its popularity as a wind- and kite-surfing destination. The best highlight for me aside from the beach was riding on the rolling sand dunes similar in size to the Saharan ones and also the Jeep Tour to the Fairy Stream through a canyon, which is not something you get to do very often! Also, don’t miss the 9th-century Po Shanu Cham Towers with beautiful views of the Phan Thiet coastal town. Mui Ne is definitely worth checking out for a day or two when you’re passing by on the bus because it has a nice chill vibe to it, friendly people, and beautiful sunsets.

7. See My Son

My Son is a set of Hindu ruins in Vietnam that date back to the Cham Empire. The Champas ruled over Central Vietnam from the 3rd to the 19th century. The temples here are of incredible historical importance, but they have been largely reclaimed by the surrounding jungle, and have fallen into a great state of disrepair. Don’t come here expecting something as marvelously preserved as Borobudur or Angkor Wat. The entrance fee is 150,000 VND.

8. Visit the caves in Phong Nha-Ke Bang

Hang Son Doong is reputed to be the world’s largest cave and is located in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. It was discovered by a local in 1990, and “rediscovered” by a British caving team in 2009. You can arrange trips to see this stunning cave in all its glory with stalactites and stalagmites, an inner cave forest, and even cave pearls. You’ll be blown away by its beauty. Entrance to the caves is around 150,000 VND per person.

9. Check out the rice terraces

Outside of connections to the Vietnam War, the stereotypical image of Vietnam is of the many rice paddies. You can find these in the Muong Hoa Valley. If you’ve never visited rice terraces, you should make a point to see them in Vietnam. Visit them to learn about rice production and take stunning photographs of the unbelievable Vietnamese countryside. Expect tours to cost around 600,000 VND per person.

10. Relax in Hue

Hue is generally passed by, making it a bit of a quieter stop along the tourist trail. Stroll along the beautiful Perfume River and into the Imperial Citadel. Don’t miss the Tu Hieu Pagoda and the Tombs of the Emperors, which mostly date from the 19th and 20th centuries. Some of the main tombs to see are the Tomb of Minh Mang, the Tomb of Tu Duc, and the Tomb of Khai Dinh.

11. Take a cooking class

Vietnamese food is delicious and the best way to learn about these incredible dishes is to take a cooking class. You’ll not only learn how to make some of these tasty meals but you’ll get to interact with a local chef who can teach you about their history and cultural significance. Many cooking classes also include a visit to the local market where you’ll shop for ingredients. Prices vary but expect to pay at least 800,000 VND per person.

12. Tour the former DMZ

The Vietnamese Demilitarized zone was the dividing line between the Communist north and anti-Communist south during the Vietnam War. It was in use from 1954 to 1976. These days, you can take a tour of the DMZ from Hue and learn about the conflict from expert guides who were actually involved in the war (or survived it as civilians). You’ll see secret tunnels, learn about military surveillance, and get insight about the conflict from a perspective not often shown in the media. Full-day tours from Hue start around 2,500,000 VND.

13. Buy a motorbike

If you’re an adventurous traveler, buy a motorbike and drive the length of the country. This is considered the best way to travel Vietnam by veteran backpackers who like to get off the beaten path. You can buy bikes in Hanoi or HCMC at either end of the country and then make your way to the opposite end, stopping along the way over the course of a few weeks. While it’s not for everyone, this mode of travel offers the most freedom as you’ll be able to visit a lot of places that the buses and trains don’t stop at. You can buy a bike for as little as 4,800,000 VND, and then you can sell it once your trip is done to recoup some of the cost. There are always backpackers looking to buy a bike in HCMC and Hanoi.

14. Sample the local coffee

Vietnam is the world’s second-largest coffee producer (after Brazil) exporting a whopping 1.5 million tons of it per year (after rice, it’s their biggest export). Even if you don’t drink coffee (I don’t), trying fresh coffee here is a must. Whether you just hop arounds cafes, do a tasting experience in Hanoi of HCMC, or head out to one of the many coffee plantations, learning about this vital crop (and also sampling it fresh) is an experience not to be missed. Expect a half-day plantation tour (with lots of samples) to cost around 700,000 VND.

For more information on specific cities in Vietnam, check out the following guides:

• Hanoi Travel Guide
• Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide
• Hoi An Travel Guide
• Nha Trang Travel Guide

Vietnam Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostels start at around 100,000 VND per night for a dorm room. These can be a bit rustic and no-frills. For a hostel with more amenities, such as free breakfast or a a free happy hour (as well as improved cleanliness), expect to pay double. Private rooms cost at least 350,890-425,000 VND per night for a double room. Most hostels include free Wi-Fi, and many also include free breakfast or free beer during certain hours of the day. Self-catering facilities are not very common since eating out is so cheap.

For those traveling with a tent, wild camping is not legal in Vietnam. While it is still possible to do as enforcement is sparse (especially if you’re sleeping in a hammock), I also wouldn’t recommend it. Insects and animals can be an issue, there are lots of landmines still undiscovered out in the brush, and robbery can occur. Stay safe and stick to hostels.

For a budget hotel with a double bed, expect to pay around 225,000 VND per night. This usually includes free Wi-Fi and free breakfast.

On Airbnb, a private room costs at least 325,000 VND per night. For an entire home or apartment, prices begin around 600,000 VND. Prices double when not booked in advance so plan accordingly

Food – Vietnamese cuisine is fresh, flavorful, and uses a lot of herbs and vegetables. Rice and noodle dishes are common as are various soups such as the iconic pho (a beef noodle soup). Wonton soup, meat curry, fresh French bread (known as bahn me , and grilled fish are just some of the popular dishes you’ll encounter. Standard ingredients include fish sauce, lemongrass, chili, lime, Thai basil, and mint.

You can get a bowl of pho or a rice dish for 20,000 VND. Street food is the cheapest and the most delicious food option in the country.

Most sit-down restaurants are also inexpensive at around 45,000-95,000 VND. The fancier (and more touristy) the restaurant, the more expensive.

Western food is also more expensive, usually around 110,000 VND for a fast food meal, so skip it if you’re on a budget.

If you want to splash out on a fancy three-course meal, expect to spend around 250,000 VND.

A liter of water at a convenience store is about 15,000 VND, while beer or soda is about 20,000-35,000 VND.

For those looking to cook their own meals, expect to pay at least 400,000 VND per week for basic groceries. Be sure to shop at the local markets to get the cheapest and freshest food. That being said, food is so cheap in the country that it’s simply easier – and cheaper – to just eat street food, especially as most hostels and hotels don’t have shared kitchens.

Backpacking Vietnam Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget, you can visit Vietnam for 600,000 VND per day. This budget covers a stay in a large hostel dorm, eating street food for all of your meals, limiting your drinking, taking the bus, and doing free activities in each destination. If you plan on drinking, add another 20,000-40,000 VND to your daily budget.

A mid-range budget of about 1,125,000 VND per day covers staying in a cheap hotel, eating street food and at the occasional sit-down restaurant, enjoying a few more drinks, taking the occasional taxi to get around, and doing more paid activities such as museum visits and water upper shows.

On an upscale budget of 2,460,000 VND, you can stay in a nice hotel, eat out for all your meals anywhere you want, enjoy lots of drinks, and more taxis, and do whatever tours and activities you want, including a multi-day trip to Ha Long Bay. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

Vietnam Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Vietnam is a very affordable country. In fact, it’s one of the cheapest in Southeast Asia. Even with the explosion of tourism in the last few years, it still remains very affordable. You’ll be hard pressed to spend money if you’re sticking to non-Western food, cocktails, and hotels. However, if you’re looking to travel even cheaper and save some money, here are some tips:

• Eat delicious street food – The street food here is excellent and cheap, and you can watch it being cooked in front of you. Stick to the local food and you’ll save money. The street-side pho, bread, sandwiches, donuts, and bananas are your best deals.
• Late-night travel – If traveling on long journeys, try to take the late-night “sleeper” buses or trains as these will save you the cost of a night’s accommodation. Depending on the company, you may even have a chance to comfortably lie flat as you ride through the dark countryside to your next destination.
• Take the tourist bus – It is actually cheaper to take the tourist bus around the country than taking local transportation because of the “tourist” price you get at the bus station. Tickets from one end of the country to another are very affordable.
• Fly for cheap – Vietnam’s low-cost airlines VietJet and FlyVietnam are extremely inexpensive. This is a great option for people with limited time to explore different regions of Vietnam. Both airlines frequently offer special deals and at the time of writing this, Hanoi to Da Nang is just 820,000 VND!
• Bargain hard – Tourists tend to be charged more than locals for everything from cyclos (a three-wheel bicycle taxi) to clothes to street food. Bargain harder than you would ordinarily, and don’t underestimate the value of walking away.
• Avoid paying tourist prices – Before you leave the hostel, ask them to estimate how much what you want to do should cost. How much should a ride to the museum cost? How much should I pay to have a gown like this made? They will be able to give you bargaining guidelines.
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water in Hanoi is not safe to drink. To save money and reduce your plastic use, bring a reusable water bottle with you. LifeStraw make a reusable bottle with a built-in filter so you can be sure your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Vietnam

To help you save money on accommodation, here’s a list of my recommended hostels and budget hotels in Vietnam:

• Mad Monkey (Hoi An)
• Hoi An Golden Holiday Hotel (Hoi An)
• Little Hanoi Hostel (Hanoi)
• San Palace Hotel & Spa (Hanoi)
• Hanoi House Hostel & Travel (Hanoi)
• Ccasa Hostel & Coffee Bar (Nha Trang)
• The Hideout (HCMC)
• Orchid’s Saigon Hotel (HCMC)

How to Get Around Vietnam

Public transportation – Larger cities in Vietnam (such as Hanoi and HCMC) have reliable and safe public transportation. In Hanoi, there are buses that cover most of the city and generally have stops near all the major tourist sites. Tickets are paid for in cash on the bus and generally cost 7,000-15,000 VND depending on how far you go. HCMC also has a large network of buses, with tickets costing up to 10,000 VND (again, depending on how far you travel).

Cyclos (a bicycle rickshaw) is one of the cheapest ways to get around. A short ride costs as little as 12,000 VND, while a longer night ride costs upwards of 40,000 VND. A more popular option is the ze om , a motorbike taxi that has fares starting from 15,000 VND. You’ll have to hold on tight though (and make sure you wear a helmet as accidents are common).

Train – A lot of people love taking the train in Vietnam because it’s safe, affordable, and comfortable and, although some routes might be slow, you’ll get some amazing views of the Vietnamese countryside. The rail network also covers most of the country, so you can get just about everywhere you want to go (except the Central Highlands and the Mekong Delta). You can use the website Baolau to research train schedules and book your tickets. A train journey between Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi (which spans the entire length of the country) starts at 1,000,000 VND for a soft seat (not a berth). The journey takes three days. Hanoi to Hue costs around 600,000 VND and takes around 13 hours while HCMC to Nha Trang costs around 500,000 VND and takes 8 hours.

Bus – It’s easy to find long-distance hop on, hop off bus tours running the length of Vietnam. You can hop on or off at any stop along the way. They cater to tourists, but locals actually use this service too since it’s super affordable. Prices depend on route and operator but generally, Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh is between 815,000-1,600,000 VND.

Flying – Flying domestically in Vietnam is a good idea if you’re looking to fit a lot into a shorter trip. For example, a flight from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City takes two hours while the train ride would take at least 30 hours. One-way flights around the country start at around 590,000 VND.

Car rental – Vietnam is very easy to navigate by bus, so I don’t really suggest renting a car here — especially because traffic in the cities is very hectic and accidents are common. That said, car rentals are affordable, costing around 500,000 VND per day. An IDP (International Driving Permit) is required. For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Vietnam

In the southern part of Vietnam, the dry season lasts from December to late April/May while the rainy season occurs from May to the end of November. The rainy season usually just means brief heavy downpours in the afternoon, although sometimes the Mekong Delta will flood. The dry season is the best time to visit but keep in mind that it’s winter up north and it’s going to be a lot colder in the north than the south. Rainy season isn’t that bad either but, like the name implies, it rains a lot.

May through November is still a good time to visit. Temperatures rarely dip below 20°C (68°F), but they can sometimes get as high as 40°C (104°F) in the hottest months (March to the end of May). The south especially gets very hot and humid during this time but it’s perfect beach weather!

Along the central coast, the rainfall pattern differs quite a bit. In the northern part of the region (like Hué and Da Nang), the rain lasts from September to February. February to May is the best time to visit this area. Temperatures soar from June to August, often in the high 30s°C (80s°F).

In Northern Vietnam, the weather is most pleasant from October to December.

The weather in Vietnam varies so much per region so it’s hard to pick the best time to go. But generally, it’s recommended to visit sometime between September-December and March-April if you’re hoping to get an overall experience in the country.

How to Stay Safe in Vietnam

Vietnam is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel. Violent crime is really, really rare. Petty theft is the most likely thing to happen to you here. Always keep your valuables secure when out and about just to be safe. Lock your windows and use common safety sense, especially in bars at night and in touristy areas.

Traffic in the major cities (specifically Hanoi) is super hectic and there are virtually no rules of the road. There are also millions of motorbikes and scooters here (literally). For that reason, take extra caution when crossing the street. It’s best to just walk as directly and calmly as possible and let the traffic weave around you. If you’re not comfortable doing that alone, follow locals when they cross.

If renting a bike or riding on the back of one, make sure you always wear a helmet. Accidents are incredibly common here, both in the traffic-heavy cities but also in rural areas where roads can be less than optimal.

There are some common scams in Vietnam, such as the motorbike scam where vendors try to charge you for pre-existing damage to your bike rental. When renting anything, take photos and videos beforehand just in case.

Be sure to always count your change. The money is similar looking here so oftentimes people will “mistakenly” give you the wrong change hoping you won’t notice that the 200,000 VND bill you just got is actually only 20,000. Always count your change here!

Most scams here are really just people trying to try to nickel and dime you and try to get you to spend extra money since they know, as a tourist, you have more than they do. You can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). Use common sense when using dating apps while traveling and meet in public places.

Street food here is very safe, but whenever you’re not sure of where to eat simply find somewhere where there are locals eating. If it’s good (and safe) enough for them, you should be fine. Avoid meat that looks uncooked or that has been out in the sun too long. Always wash your hands before and after eating just to be safe.

If you experience an emergency, dial 113 for assistance.

Be sure to make copies of your important documents in case of theft.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Vietnam Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Vietnam Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Vietnam travel and continue planning your trip:

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

Biking the Mekong Delta in Vietnam

Why I’ll Never Return to Vietnam

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Vietnam Travel Blog

Vietnam is an incredible country located in Asia. In fact, Vietnam is one of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia. It has something for everyone – backpackers, couples, solo travelers, luxury travelers, etc.

Vietnam offers several experiences – from river cruises to rice terraces trekking, from mountain villages to beach holidays, from war museums to boat trips, from temples to cooking classes – you should find something that suits your needs and interests.

If you’re planning your first trip to Vietnam, this guide should answer any questions you may have. We’ll talk about travel facts, the best time to visit Vietnam, the best destinations, recommended itineraries, travel costs, travel essentials and how to prepare for your trip.

Best Time to Visit Vietnam

Vietnam is a very long country and depending on your destination, you may be facing different types of seasons. We decided to split this section into two sections to help you understand the seasons in Vietnam:

• North Vietnam
• South Vietnam

Top Destinations in Vietnam

Ho chi Minh

Ha long Bay

Vietnam Itineraries

Planning your trip to Vietnam? We created Vietnam itineraries to help you. You can pick the length of your stay and follow our recommended itineraries. We created itineraries for up to one month including our favorite Vietnamese destinations.

• Three weeks
• Ha Noi (2 day)
• Ha Long Bay (2 days)
• Ninh Binh (2 days)
• Back to Ha Noi (1 day)
• Da Nang (2 days)
• Hoi An (2 days)
• Da Lat (2 days)
• Ho Chi Minh (2 days)
• Ha Noi (3 day)
• Hue (2 days)
• Da Lat (3 days)
• Mui Ne (2 days)
• Ho Chi Minh (3 days)
• Sa Pa (2 days)
• Ha Long Bay (3 days)
• Ninh Binh (3 days)
• Phu Quoq Island (3 days)

Vietnam Travel Tips & Costs

In this section, you’ll find general information on costs and how to prepare for your trip. Finally, you will find a table that will provide an overview of cost and options depending on your travel budget.

Accommodation

In Vietnam, you’ll find several options when it comes to accommodation. Whether you’re a budget traveler or not, you won’t have difficulty to find options. You can find dorms starting at $3 per night.

When it comes to food, you can find different types of restaurants. If you eat local food, you can eat for less than VND 100,000. Obviously, you may find elegant restaurants around the country and you can pay more if you wish. The cheapest options are usually in small local restaurants.

Some activities such as hiking or beach bumming are free. Although, if you’re planning on visiting temples, kayaking in Halong bay, cruising along the Mekong river or experiencing other fun activities, you will have to pay for it. You can browse activities in Vietnam here  to have an idea of the costs.

Transportation

In general, it’s pretty easy to get around Vietnam. You can either fly, take a bus or a van or travel by train to reach your destinations.

To book your transport between destinations, you can book via 12GO or via a travel agency. Most of the time, your hotel and hostel may be able to arrange it for you.

Safety in Vietnam

Overall, traveling around Vietnam is pretty safe. Of course, you should always lock your valuables especially if you’re staying in a hostel .

Scams happen every once in a while, as they do in most Asian countries. However, if you are prepared and do your research, you should be able to avoid them. Driving in Vietnam can be very dangerous. Vietnamese traffic is famous and not for being well organized. Make sure you feel comfortable before starting a motorbike trip. Accidents are pretty common.

It’s good to know that there are still a lot of landmines and unexploded ordnance from the Vietnam war buried around Vietnam (especially when walking in forests and the countryside). That said, make sure to have a local guide.

What to Pack for Vietnam

Universal adapter

Mosquito repellent

Quick-dry towel

Waterproof bag

Visa in Vietnam

You can apply on an eVisa to get your 30 days in Vietnam. You can read this post to learn the steps. Note that you can also get longer visas if you wish to spend more time in Vietnam. If you are crossing by land, you can get a visa via a travel agency in Laos or Cambodia.

You can verify your visa requirements here .

Preparing Your Trip to Vietnam

Browse flights on Skyscanner to find deals.

Go To Skyscanner

Book your travel insurance for as little as $42/month.

Go To SafetyWing

Booking.com

Find accommodation anywhere in the world.

Go To Booking.com

Check the visa requirements and apply for a visa if needed.

Go To iVisa

Worldpackers

Volunteer abroad in exchange for free accommodation.

Go To Worldpackers

Book transfers, tours, and activities in advance.

Go To Viator

Vietnam eSIM Plans

It’s hard to find a good data plan when you’re traveling. You have to research the best deals, go to a store, and hope they have a prepaid SIM card for travelers and tourists.

And if they don’t? You could be without service for the rest of your trip. Not only is that frustrating, but it can also be time-consuming.

eSIMs are the solution to your travel woes. With an eSIM plan, you can stay connected no matter where you go. Plus, there are no contracts or cancellation fees, so you can change your plan whenever you want.

If you’re looking for an eSIM plan while in Vietnam, then be sure to check out the providers below. They all offer great plans that will keep you connected while you’re there.

$3 OFF with promo code: MELISS2943

190+ countries and regions

Read Review

5% OFF with promo code: ABROKENBACKPACK

130+ countries and regions

100+ countries and regions

Vietnam Blog Posts

Is Da Nang Safe? Here’s What You Need To Know

While it may not be as well known as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang is one of South-Central Vietnam's most popular tourist destinations. This bustling coastal city is known for its gorgeous beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning nature-rich backdrop. Da Nang...

The 5 Best Places To Live In Vietnam

Wondering where to live in Vietnam? In this guide, we'll talk about the best places to live in Vietnam. From its stunning natural landscapes to friendly, welcoming locals, Vietnam is a popular choice among expats in South East Asia. What's more, the cost of living is...

Vietnam SIM Cards: Everything You Need To Know

Are you visiting Vietnam soon? Make sure to know what to expect when it comes to purchasing a Vietnam SIM card. Fortunately, Asia is one of the best places where you can buy a SIM card easily. You should be able to find a cheap SIM card pretty much anywhere in Asia....

Can You Teach English In Vietnam As A Non-Native English Speaker?

If you look at any job advertisement for a teaching position in Vietnam, you will see that most have a few requirements. These requirements are often the same for most jobs. Having a bachelor’s degree, a TEFL certificate, and being a native English speaker. We all...

Expat Guide: Living In Vietnam

Thinking of moving to Vietnam? Southeast Asia is an attractive place to move for many expats because of the beaches, low cost of living, and the adventure that awaits. Thailand and Bali seem to be the hotspots for expats and travelers alike, but Vietnam is often...

Perfect Vietnam Itinerary 1 Month

Wondering how to backpack Vietnam for one month? This Vietnam budget guide is based on a 25 days itinerary. One goal; make the most of the country by respecting the time limit and a tiny budget. If you are asking yourself what to do in Vietnam, you should stop now....

How To Get A Visa For Vietnam

Depending on your nationality and your current location, you can have different options in terms of visa and transportation. If you are wondering how to apply for your Vietnam visa, you will find all the information here. Note that if you're planning on moving to...

TRAVEL to VIETNAM – Tips and Information Guide (2024 Edition)

Everything you need to know about travel to Vietnam in our comprehensive 2024 Vietnam travel guide.

We get it. You’re wondering what the absolute best destination to travel in Southeast Asia is.

You’ve spent hours researching.

Talked to friends.

Scoured the internet for blogs.

Watched YouTube videos.

And you’ve finally realised something.

Without a doubt, Vietnam is the place for you.

And trust us, as a couple that have travelled the world for over a decade, we think you’ve made the right decision.

There’s a reason Vietnam is our all-time favourite country…

From the tropical coral reefs of Nha Trang to the northern mountains of Sa Pa, travel to Vietnam is one of the most adventurous yet culturally empowering experiences you can have.

One moment you will find yourself haggling for  banh mi  deep within Saigon and later that day you could be watching a breathtaking sunset from the Mekong Delta.

Vietnam is more than a country. It’s an experience.

You’ll find yourself immersed among street food vendors cooking up exotic cuisines such as  pho  along streets with stores selling suits and ties.

Or you’ll be cruising the waters of Halong Bay while monkeys jump from island to island.

Or you might find yourself trekking to the highest peak in Vietnam, Fansipan soaring to over 3,100 metres!

Not into adventure activities? Homestays are the perfect way to spend your day as the monsoon rains fall across the endless snaking rivers of the Mekong.

Vietnamese hospitality is unrivalled and is something that you should experience once in your life, so what are you waiting for? Say good morning Vietnam! And go get lost!

So we’ve convinced you to travel to Vietnam? Awesome!

Now check out the basic information about the country in our Vietnam travel guide.

25 BEST Things to Do in Hue, Vietnam (2024 Edition)

The perfect vietnam itinerary for 1, 2, or 3 weeks, canyoning in dalat – what it is really like, travelling in vietnam: at a glance.

Here are the basics about travel to Vietnam.

OTHER MAIN CITIES:

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Da Nang, Hue

Vietnamese Dong (see  current exchange rate ). 1USD approximately = 23,000 dong. 1 beer = 30,000 dong ($1.30USD)

ENTRY / VISA:

Travellers from most countries in the world are required to have visas. In most cases these can be obtained upon arrival for either 3 or 6 months. For information about your specific visa requirements click  here.

Vietnam is fairly safe for travellers. Petty theft tends to be the biggest concern and always be on the lookout for taxi scams. Also of concern are minor auto/motorbike accidents. This is one place it’s great to have travel insurance when visiting.

ELECTRICITY:

220 Volt at 50Hz. Power plugs – Type A: 2 vertical pins, Type C: 2 round pins, Type F (also known as Schuko plug): 2 round pins (Be sure to get your  universal travel adapter  before you leave)

TRANSPORTATION:

Intercity travel is possible by plane, train and bus. Within cities, towns and villages you can expect to get around on bicycle rickshaws, motorbike taxes, taxis and bus.

Don’t Forget to Pack the Most Important Thing: Travel Insurance !

TOP 5 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES IN VIETNAM

With so much to see and do in Vietnam, it really is hard to pick the top experiences.

However, we think that to truly appreciate Vietnam you need to plan to do these 5 activities during your visit.

Take the Overnight Train from Hanoi to Sapa

Said to be one of the most eye-opening train rides in the world, as you pass through lush forests, rice paddy fields on your way to the Vietnamese – Chinese border.

Book your  train ticket here .

Hike Through the Rice Terraces of Sapa

Explore the area with the local hill tribes. Stay with them during your trek. And enjoy the beautiful terraced countryside for which Sapa is known.

Here’s our full post about  trekking in Sapa .

Cruise the Mekong Delta

Probably one of the ‘must do’s of Vietnam.’ The Mekong Delta is full of hidden gems including floating markets, friendly locals and late afternoon storms.

Book a multiday  tour of the Mekong Delta

Go Caving in Phong Nha

Caves there can fit a 747 plane in it. They are massive and spectacular. This is an adventure you will never forget.

Book your  Phong Nha cave tour

Ride a Motorcycle

Yes, that’s right! Hiring a motorcycle or scooter is a must. But maybe do it out on the country roads. Opt for the famous ride to the mountain village of Dalat, or pretty much anywhere throughout the country.

Read about how to ride through the famous  Hai Van Pass

Other Things to do in Vietnam

Learn to cook Vietnamese food . Eating delicious Vietnamese food is one thing. Eating it after you’ve  learned to prepare it  is another!

Scuba dive  in Nha Trang. You may not think of Vietnam as a big scuba location, but there is  some great diving  to be had in Nha Trang.

Go canyoning  in Dalat. Rappel, slide, jump and  climb your way through canyons  in this gorgeous place!

Explore the Marble Mountains  in Da Nang.  These beautiful mountains  have been mined for marble for years and have incredible views and temples to visit along the way.

Sandboard down the sand dunes  in Mui Ne. It’s like snowboarding, but down massive sand dunes! Enjoy this rush!

Visit the Giants Causeway  in Ghan Da Dia. Half the world away from the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, be amazed at  this unique geologic structure .

Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels  outside of Ho Chi Minh City. No trip to HCMC is complete without  touring these historic tunnels  that were used during the war.

Conquer the Hoi An Pass on a motorbike . This is known as one of the most beautiful sections of highway in the world. Enjoy!

Explore the world’s biggest cave . We have a special connection with  Hang Son Doong  as it is where we were engaged. Make your own special moment too!

Climb the highest mountain in Indochina  in Sapa. Fansipan is over 3,000m above sea level and  offers incredible views  along the way to the top!

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT THESE  OTHER AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN   VIETNAM

READ MORE...

A First-Timer’s Guide to Trekking in Sapa

The 11 Best Things to Do in Da Nang, Vietnam (2024 Guide)

33 BEST Things to Do in Vietnam (Epic 2024 Guide)

10 BEST Things to Do in Ninh Binh, Vietnam (2024 Guide)

Scuba Diving In Nha Trang – Is It Worth It?

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN VIETNAM

There are plenty of amazing places to visit in Vietnam. Depending on your interests, trip duration and time of year you will find plenty of things to do during any length of stay. 

When slurping a bowl of pho in a local market or exploring an ancient temple, it’s easy to feel like you’ve stepped into a time machine in Ho Chi Minh City.

A collection of over 3,000 limestone islands providing endless kayaking opportunities. Take the time to relax aboard a boat or venture to Cat Ba National Park for mystical waterfalls!

Book your  tour of Halong Bay

The capital of Vietnam is also one of the most ancient capitals in the world. The history of Hanoi is rich, devastating and full of legends. This mystical city is also known for its cuisine, silk, buzzing nightlife as well as cultural diversity.

Plan your 3-day  Hanoi itinerary

My Son Temple

Ancient temples dating back 1,000 years give a culture understanding into Vietnam’s past all while showing the scars of the war.

Book an early morning  tour of My Son

For more information on specific things to do in the top places to visit in Vietnam, reference our following city travel guides: 

Ho Chi Minh City:

*  Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary *  Day Trips from Ho Chi Minh City

*  Hanoi Itinerary * Day Trips From Hanoi

Dalat Hoi An

Da Nang Hue Ninh Binh

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT THESE OTHER AWESOME PLACES TO VISIT IN VIETNAM. 

BEST VIETNAM TRAVEL ITINERARY

We’ve put together a few Vietnam itineraries that are sure to leave you wanting for nothing at the end of your visit. 

There are so many amazing things to do in Vietnam that planning an itinerary for your travel can be a little overwhelming. 

Even though the country is one united nation, you can think of it geographically as being divided into a northern and southern region.

So depending on how much time you have, you may want to explore the northern region, southern region or the entire country.

Of course, no one-size-fits-all plan will suffice. But if we were to head back to Vietnam these are the top places and things that we would want to do! 

1-Week Vietnam Travel Itinerary Highlights

Most people spend at least a month went hey travel to Vietnam. But if you had just one week, or were willing to split a few weeks between the northern and southern regions, this is how we’d spend our time! 

Northern Vietnam

• Fly into Hanoi
• 2 nights – Hanoi
• 2 nights –  Halong Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay
• 2 nights  – Sapa
• Alternative to Sapa  –  2 night in Hue
• Fly out of Hanoi

Central Vietnam

• Fly into Hanoi or HCMC. Get a local flight down to Dong Hoi
• 3 nights  – Phong Nha
• 2 nights  – Hue
• 2-3  nights  – Hoi An
• Fly out of Da Nang to either Hanoi or HCMC to leave

South Vietnam

• Fly into Ho Chi Minh City
• 2 nights  – Ho Chi Minh City
• 2 nights –  Mekong Delta
• 2 nights –  Dalat
• 1 night –  Mui Ne
• Fly out of Ho Chi Minh City

READ MORE: Check out this post for more details on our  Vietnam travel itinerary . 

VIETNAM TRIP PLANNING

Best time to visit vietnam.

The best time to travel to Vietnam really depends on what you are looking for in terms of weather, scenery and budget.

Peak season occurs from mid-December through to February. But expect prices to double during this time. The low season is perfect for those on a budget.

• Low Season –  April to June, September to November
• Shoulder Season –  December to March
• High Season –  July & August

Northern Vietnam  –  The best months to travel Northern Vietnam are April to May or September to October. There are mostly sunny days and the rain has stopped.

The weather gets really cold from December to March and is not suited for hiking or sailing a junk boat in Halong Bay that time of year.

Central Vietnam –  The best months for travel to Central Vietnam are January to June. There are heavy rains in October and November and the really hot months are from May to August.

Southern Vietnam  –  The best months to explore Southern Vietnam are January to April where conditions are beautiful.

You really can travel the south at any time of the year. Just note that from May to November there are afternoon downpours.

VIETNAM TRAVEL BUDGET GUIDELINE

Vietnam is a cheap country to travel if you want it to be, this all depends on what your budget is like. Our advice is always over-budget when making plans, and if you come home with money, it can go towards your next trip. All prices below are in USD per day.

Budgeting Tips

To make your money go further here are a few tips: 

• Eat street food as often as possible. You can usually fill up for $1-2USD.
• Travel in groups when possible. Staying in hostels will lead to making friends. And with friends, you can split transportation costs and barter on other expenses.
• Negotiate taxi fares before taking the ride. Vietnamese taxi drivers are notorious for flexible fares that tend to fall int heir favor. Don’t be afraid of a little negotiation.
• Drink  bia hoi . Sure it’s not the more delightful beer. But it is shipped in fresh each day, it’s cheap and it’s what the local drink.
• Take in the sights for free. Do a little research and walk the streets on your own. You’ll also find there are a number of free tours and other opportunities if you ask around.
• Sleep on overnight busses for longer trips. Combine the transportation and accommodation line items of your budget and save a few dollars.

But there are a few things you should know about the different budgets at which you can choose to travel.

Note: Budgets shown as Single Traveller / Couples per day. 

Budget Traveller ($35 Single / $50 Couples)

If you are on a backpacker budget and planning on staying in dorm rooms, getting street food, drinking a few nights of the week, I would budget for about $35 a day.

A single hostel bed can be $5-$8 per person. A budget basic private room is $15-$20. A street food meal can be $1-$2. A bottle of beer is about $1- $1.50 and a  bia hoi  is $0.20 per cup. This is not the nicest beer. But it is passable and you get to make new friends when drinking it.

Walking or taking public transport will keep your budget down. There are many free things to do, you just need to think outside the box.

Mid-Range Traveller ($100 Single / $120 Couple)

If you have a little more cash in your budget your travels in Vietnam will become a lot more comfortable.

A nicer hotel is definitely affordable.

There are restaurants where you will pay more than the street food price. But the food is definitely of nicer quality (most of the time). The local beer can get a little too much sometimes so you will be able to enjoy an international beer or wine.

For the attractions you are most interested in, get a guide and learn more about the history of the country. You’ll be able to commit much more of your budget to do things rather than cutting corners just to stay alive.

Luxury Traveller ($90+ Single / $120+ Couple)

You don’t have to have that much more to enjoy a luxury trip to Vietnam. With a few more dollars in your budget, a nicer hotel is definitely affordable. Eat and drink anything you would like at virtually any restaurant.

You can hire transportation without having to haggle. And you can pretty much do any tour you would like to do when visiting any part of Vietnam.

GETTING TO AND AROUND VIETNAM

Entry requirements.

Most travellers are required to have visas when travelling to Vietnam, which can typically be arranged upon arrival. You are typically allowed to stay for 3 – 6 months, depending on nationality.

For information about your specific visa requirements click  here

Additionally, Vietnam has introduced an electronic visa (e-visa), which costs $25 USD and is granted for single entry visits for up to 30 days.

You no longer will have to apply through an agent to get an invitation letter or queue at the airport immigration for hours waiting to receive your visa upon arrival.

Apply in advance  here .

Once you are approved, all you need to do is print the visa out and present it on entry to Vietnam. Don’t lose this e- visa print out as you will need this during your travels in Vietnam.

Hotels will ask for it on check-in at the accommodation and travel agents may ask for it if you are booking flights.

Also, print out your  travel insurance  as well. Immigration will ask for this also as they want to know you are covered if you fall ill or get injured during your stay.

Getting to Vietnam

There are a number of different ways to travel to Vietnam, depending on where you are coming from and how you like to get around with transport.

There are a lot of different airlines that fly to Vietnam from all over the world. There are two major international airports in Vietnam: Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City in the south and Noi Bai Airpot (HAN) in Hanoi in the north.

Direct flights to Vietnam from Australia, Europe and North America are still limited, but it is improving. You will most likely have to book a flight with a stopover in either Hong Kong, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul or Singapore.

There are many domestic airports scattered among the country. Vietnam Airlines is Vietnam’s national carrier. We have flown with them several times and they are amazing.

You can cross into Vietnam by train from China, all the way from Beijing to Ping Xian. This is the Dong Dang Crossing which is 160km from Hanoi.

After you have crossed the border hop on a train to Hanoi. Don’t buy the direct ticket from Beijing to Hanoi. It works out cheaper to buy your ticket from Beijing to Ping Xian then cross the border and purchase another ticket from Dong Dang to Hanoi.

If you do the train trip from Beijing through to Hanoi, it will take 36 hours so it is best to book a sleeper. Make sure you have your visa organised before getting to the border.

You can bring your own food and drinks for the train or purchase them from the cafeteria on board. There are squat toilets on board and areas to store your luggage.

You can get to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City through either the Cambodia, Laos or China borders. There is a route from Vientiane (Laos) to Hanoi, and one from Siem Reap or Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City.

Most travel agents in Vientiane, Siem Reap or Phnom Penh will sell the tickets or at your accommodation. You can also get a minivan from Guangzhou through to Hanoi.

Make sure you have your visa ready. The border crossings by land may not be set up as well as others.

If you want to book any of your bus trips online rather than trying to deal with travel agencies in the country, you can do so on the popular website  Bookaway .

Getting Around Vietnam

Getting around Vietnam is surprisingly easy. Public transport goes everywhere, and there are plenty of moto-taxis that are happy to take you to the places that public transport won’t reach.

Travelling by Air

The fastest way to get around the country, of course, is by air. There are many domestic airports all over the country and you can fly in from major cities.

You can get cheap flights within the country through VietJet Air and Vietnam Airlines. For the best deals head directly on the airline’s website.

Travelling by Taxi, Tuk Tuk Or Mototaxi

When you are in the cities and town catching a taxi, tuk-tuk or moto-taxi can be the best way to get around. For taxi companies, look for the biggest and most reputable companies as you can be ripped off.

For the tuk-tuks, ask your accommodation the average price to your destination so you can agree on a price with the driver.

We recommend Uber and Grab (car or motorbike) which you can use an app and get the price.

Travelling by Bus

It is possible and advisable to travel by bus throughout Vietnam. Busses inside of cities can be complicated and should be a last resort.

However, when travelling long distances in Vietnam busses are a great option. This is especially true if you take night busses and sleep during the ride.

Travelling by Motorbike

We think travelling by motorbike is the best way to see Vietnam if you have the time. Buy your own motorbike and ride the length of the country. Or you can choose one area and explore Northern Vietnam or South Vietnam.

Here’s our post to help guide you on  how to buy a motorbike in Vietnam .

Travelling by Train

Taking the train is a great way to get around the country. They are great for overnight journeys as the trains have bed cabins.

In Vietnam, there are many places with roadwork that can last for years. So trains can be the best way to go.

APPS AND TECHNOLOGY

We know you’ll absolutely love travelling in Vietnam. But technology has made it easier, more affordable and safer to travel than ever.

Here are a few apps we think you should definitely acquaint yourself with prior to your travels:

Grab  – Use this app to catch a ride from any metro area in Vietnam.

XE Currency  – Transfer, monitor and calculate currency as the need arises. This app may not be totally necessary as you are typically tied into rates the banks charge for services. But it is handy to have around. 

Express VPN  – This will protect your sensitive information wherever you travel – not just in [Country]. Be sure to have this to keep your online information secure as you travel. 

iTranslate  – Even if you don’t know more than a handful of Vietnamese words, iTranslate will help you communicate as you travel in Vietnam. 

WiFi Finder  – With this app, you no longer have to guess whether the next place on your itinerary has WiFi or scramble across town looking for hot spots.

BEST THINGS TO EAT IN VIETNAM

When you travel to a foreign country one of the new and most exciting things you will experience is the food. There are so many amazing food choices in Vietnam, and Vietnamese food is delicious.

Here are a few of our favourites.

Goi Cuon:  This is a rice paper packed with greens, coriander and various combinations of minced or shredded pork, shrimp or crab. It will be served with a sweet and sour sauce or a delicious homemade peanut sauce.

Sometimes to make the experience even better, you get to hand roll them yourself. This was our favourite dish.

Banh Mi:  With this one, it will be different in every corner of Vietnam. This is a baguette sandwich that is filled with meat, greens, pata, pickled vegetables, soy sauce, cilantro and sometimes an omelet.

The meat filling will be roasted pork belly, grilled pork loin, barbecue pork, boiled chicken, or a fried egg.

Pho (pronounced ‘fur’):  This flat rice noodle soup is either light beef or chicken broth flavoured with coriander and ginger with spring onions and bits of meat (chicken, pork or beef).

It is a dish you can have any time of the day and is delicious, but it can be hit and miss in some places. If you have an average one, please do try it again. We ate pho a lot for breakfast and never got sick of it.

Bun Cha:  This is a Hanoi specialty and it is deliciously addictive. Bun Cha is served with grilled fatty pork over a plate of white rice noodles. It will be served with a sauce.

It will all be served separately and you combined everything together. You can ask for some little fried spring rolls on top too. It is so delicious!

Coa Lau:  Hoi An is the best (and only authentic) place to try this one. as the noodles are made using water from a special well in town.

It is chewy rice flour noodles with Chinese barbecue pork, bean sprouts, croutons and fresh herbs in a delicious pork-based gravy.

PLACES TO STAY IN VIETNAM

There are accommodation options for all budgets in Vietnam. You can stay in a shared dorm for $5 USD per night, or a luxury hotel for over $300 USD.

The accommodation standards can vary in each destination.

For example, we got a really nice hotel in the middle of nowhere when we were on our bike for $12 a night. But we would not find a place like this in Hanoi, Hoi An, HCMC or Hue for less than $25.

NOTE –  In Vietnam, the accommodation will keep your passport for the duration of your stay. This is to do with the government. Officials will randomly come around and check hotels and hostels.

If they do not have the ID or passport of every person staying there, the accommodation will be fined. The accommodation will keep your passport in a safe. If you are unsure just ask, “do you lock my passport up?”

Types of Accommodations

Vietnam is wildly popular among backpackers. Because the costs are generally incredibly low, budget travellers flock to the country.

This means that there are lots of great hostel options when looking for accommodations in Vietnam.

Whether you are busy spending all your time exploring and are just looking for a cheap place to crash for the night or want to make friends along the way, you will find most of what you are looking for in a variety of hostels throughout Vietnam.

Because costs are generally lower in Vietnam than in most parts of the world your quality of life can go up quite a bit when you travel to Vietnam.

One way you can upgrade your travel experience is by booking rooms in hotels instead of beds in hostels. For a few dollars more you’ll get vastly more space and privacy.

In some towns and villages, hotels are your only option.

But generally, these are very reasonably priced. You can expect to spend USD$20-30 for a decent hotel room in most cities, towns and villages across Vietnam.

Another good option in recent years is AirBnB, and there are more and more amazing places popping up to stay in Vietnam for very affordable prices every day.

As is typical in many destinations where Airbnb accommodations are available, you’ll likely find great value and a little more personal space with an Airbnb stay. 

If you’re looking for an awesome place to stay, we personally love using Airbnb. If you’ve never used the platform before,  sign up using this link to get USD$35 off your first booking .

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Vietnam

We travelled from the south to the north and stayed in many different places. Here are a few accommodation options we highly recommend.

VIETNAM TRAVEL TIPS

The Vietnamese people are friendly, welcoming and hospitable towards travellers. It is a great destination to travel to in Southeast Asia.

The people are very respectful and would like the same back from you. Here are a few things that you should know before going to Vietnam.

GENERAL VIETNAM TRAVEL TIPS 

While we have  many basic travel tips  we suggest you use when travelling to Vietnam, there are also plenty of Vietnam-specific tips that will make your visit the best it can be. 

Here are a few we recommend you consider as you plan your trip to visit Vietnam: 

Please show respect to their religious beliefs and their cultures . You are travelling to someone else’s country. They have different religious beliefs and cultures in your home. Please respect them.

Watch your belongings.  Vietnam is a safe country but unfortunately, there still is petty theft. Whether you are at a restaurant or on a bus always watch your belongings.

Beware of the counterfeit tour agencies . Unfortunately, there are plenty of these around, especially in the main tourist areas. Book through the main owner or operator or any of  these tours that we recommend .

Do not drink the tap water.  The locals don’t even drink the water. There is bottled water available everywhere. Popular tourist restaurants will usually have on their menu that they wash their salad and veggies in sterilised water and make tea, coffee and soup from that too.

Carry toilet paper everywhere . There are toilets available in restaurants or in public but there may not be toilet paper. Most of the time you have to pay for the public toilet and they may give you some toilet paper, but don’t count on it. Always have your stash.

Toilet paper goes in the bin . DO NOT put the toilet paper in the toilet. Please put it into the bin provided. Vietnam’s sewerage systems are not built for much more than human waste so toilet paper and other items will just clog up your toilet.

Embrace the “bum gun “. Next to every toilet in Vietnam, there is a water hose. This is not to wash down the floor. This is to clean yourself up after you do your business. Don’t be disgusted by this. Embrace it.

Vietnam is bigger than you think . This country is huge and many people underestimate it. Vietnam is about 1,650 kilometres long from north to south. The distance on buses and trains is long so be prepared.

Take note of the Vietnamese money . It will be a new currency for you so do take a look at it before you go out spending. There are more zeros in it than you might be used to (1USD = 23,000 Dong)

Always take photos when you rent a scooter . Renting a scooter in Vietnam is something everyone does. It is a great way to get around and see all the attractions. But where you rent it from can get you into trouble. Whenever you rent a scooter take photos of the bike or else might end up with a crazy expensive bill.

Always wear a helmet. Always . Please wear a helmet. The roads are crazier here than they are in your country. The rules are different and road conditions are not the best. A quality helmet could save your life in an accident.

Make sure you have travel insurance . We tell people who are going travelling, “if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.” You do not know what is going to happen while you are away and knowing you are covered will put your mind at ease.

Be confident when crossing the road . The roads in Vietnam are crazy. Crossing the road can be daunting but you need to be confident. Do not walk backward or hesitate. Walk slowly and watch the traffic coming towards you. They will all move around you.

Take your shoes off before entering a temple or a person’s home . It is a custom that stems back to ancient times and a big part comes back to cleanliness. The ground is used for chatting, dining and even sleeping.

Cover your shoulders and knees when entering a temple . This is common in most religious sites. There are always signs suggesting visitors dress ‘appropriately.’ Shoulders and knees should be covered. If it is a hot day and a t-shirt is too sticky, carry a scarf for when you visit to cover your shoulders.

Keep a low profile . Do not be loud, raise your voice in aggression or show off. Do not show dramatic affection publicly like kissing. Save it for the hotel room

Ask for permission before taking a photo of someone . This is polite and ensures you are not intruding on them. The people are not there for your entertainment. If they say no, smile and thank them anyway.

Do not take photos of anything to do with the government or military.  This is a big NO in any country and can end up with you in jail.

Do not touch someone on the head . The head is the most important part of the body. Touching someone’s head who you don’t know is like saying you are more important than they are.

Place your chopsticks across the top of the bowl when finished . Don’t have your chopsticks hanging out of the bowl, and don’t point them at anyone when they are resting on the plate.

VIETNAM PACKING LIST

We always travel with a  core packing list  wherever we go. And when it comes to Vietnam, many factors will affect what else you need to bring along with you. 

Check out our  travel essentials  and be sure to add any of the other additional items listed below. 

Important Note!  Before you book any international trip, we honestly recommend getting travel insurance. You never know when things will go wrong, and medical bills can add up quickly if you get sick or injure yourself overseas.

Our personal recommendation based on our own experience is  World Nomads .

TRAVEL INSURANCE. SIMPLE & FLEXIBLE.

Which countries or regions are you traveling to, what’s your country of residence, enter traveler’s age, staying safe in vietnam.

Vietnam is extremely safe, apart from the one major danger which is the roads. They are crazy, even more so if you try to ride 10’000km around the country on motorbikes as we did!

Aside from that, common sense will keep you safe.

Here are a few reminders of what common sense when travelling in Vietnam means:

As you saw above, Vietnam is extremely safe. We did not feel unsafe once in the 7 months we were there (excluding the roads).

This doesn’t mean you can completely let your guard down though, and petty theft does happen in this country, although it’s not common.

Some tips for protecting your things:

In other words, use common sense and you’ll be fine.

STAYING CONNECTED IN VIETNAM

Staying connected with friends and family (and work) when travelling in Vietnam is important. But if you don’t know how to connect you can find yourself greatly inconvenienced or spending too much money.

We feel like your money will go a lot further if you consider a few options. 

Purchase a SIM Card

Picking up a SIM card has become the quickest and typically most affordable way to stay connected in Vietnam or any country for that matter.

If you have an unlocked phone you can use a 4G SIM card to connect to the cellular networks in Vietnam. From there you can cast a hot spot if you need to crank out some work on your computer or want to connect a tablet.

This 3G/4G SIM card  is a great and affordable option for a SIM card if you are flying into Vietnam.

Rent a Portable WiFi Device

Alternatively to a SIM card, particularly if you don’t have an unlocked phone, you can rent a portable WiFi device during your travel to Vietnam.

This device  will be delivered to you when you arrive in Vietnam and will provide 4G service for less than USD$5 per day.

You’ll be able to connect anywhere you can find service across the country, which will be most of the places you are likely to travel in Vietnam.

Access Free WiFI

Free is always best, if it is convenient. And there are plenty of places throughout Vietnam that will provide free WiFi in public spaces or at restaurants, cafes and hostels and hotels.

We recommend using the  WiFi Finder  app, which will help you locate WiFi anywhere you travel in Vietnam.

BE A RESPONSIBLE TRAVELER IN VIETNAM

We absolutely love Vietnam. And we love the idea that it will remain a beautiful and friendly place for travellers for years to come.

Here are a few tips specific to travel to Vietnam that will promote sustainable tourism in the country:

Use your own energy to get around.  Walk or cycle through town as much as possible. Taking a cyclo-taxi is a close alternative if you don’t have the energy to propel yourself through the city. But this reduces the impact of taxis, busses and other forms of automotive transportation.

Mind your plastic . Plastic is everywhere in Vietnam. But using your own reusable bag for groceries and other shopping, carrying a reusable water bottle and having your own straw are just 3 of the many simple ways you can reduce the amount of plastic you use.

Shop local . Visiting the markets will be one of your top experiences when travelling to Vietnam. Support local vendors as often as possible, including in taking tours when available.

Be mindful of wildlife . Wildlife in the wild is great. But be mindful not to provoke, feed or otherwise molest wildlife. And never purchase any item made of or involving rare or endangered species.

Attempt to communicate in Vietnamese . You’re probably not going to be fluent as soon as you arrive in the country. But knowing a few phrases and doing your best to communicate with locals will show respect and earn trust and make your experience richer.

KEY VIETNAMESE TRAVEL PHRASES

You don’t have to be fluent in Vietnamese to have a great time when you travel to Vietnam. But it does help to know a few key phrases.

This will not only assist you in your travels but it will also show respect to the local Vietnamese people that you are doing your best to assimilate into their culture. 

BOOKS TO READ ABOUT VIETNAM

Maybe you already know everything about Vietnam. Chances are you don’t!

But even if you are well-read, here are a few suggestions that might be worth your time while you’re on the plane to Vietnam. 

The Quiet American  (Graham Greene) – Originally published in 1956 and adapted for film twice, this story by Greene became an instant classic. Greene fictionalizes life in 1950s Vietnam as told by a British correspondent trying to understand the roots of the rising conflict set to occur.

At Home In The World  (Thich Nhat Hanh) – World renown Vietnamese monk, Hanh reflects on lessons and stories in life from the Buddhist perspective.

Vietnam: Rising Dragon  (Bill Hayton) – A piece of nonfiction that looks back on the Vietnam of old and attempts to projects its place in the future of Southeast Asia.

The Sympathizer  (Viet Thanh Nguyen) – The Pulitzer Prize-winning book, allegedly influenced by  The Quiet American , is told through the eyes of a double-agent during the Vietnam War who struggles to understand the minds and hearts of men engaged in war.

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Table of Contents

Read our vietnam posts, 20 amazing things to do in hoi an, vietnam (2024 guide), 14 incredible things to do in dalat, vietnam (2024 guide), the perfect 3 days in hanoi itinerary [2024 guide], 25 amazing things to do in hanoi, vietnam (2024 guide), the perfect 3 days in ho chi minh city itinerary [2024], the 8 best day trips from ho chi minh city (2024 guide), caves, zip lines and deep mud in phong nha, ganh da dia – vietnam’s own ‘giant’s causeway’, ba be national park – the lake, trekking and happy water, motorbiking the road from dalat to nha trang in vietnam, riding sea to sky: hue to hoi an by motorbike, getting a chinese visa in hanoi, vietnam.

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25 Best Vietnam Travel Blogs & Websites

• Vietnam Coracle | Independent Travel Guides to Vietnam
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1. Vietnam Coracle | Independent Travel Guides to Vietnam

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3. Origin Vietnam Blog

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5. Adventure Journey

6. Get Visa Vietnam

7. Luxury Travel's Blog » Vietnam

8. VnExpress | Vietnam travel

9. Colorful Journeys

10. Vietnam Travel Deals Blog

11. Vietnam Travel Guide Blog

12. Viet Center Tourist Blog

13. Vietnam Travel Lands Tours Blog

14. Uncover Vietnam Blog

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16. ODC Travel Blog

17. The Guardian » Vietnam holidays

18. Wander-Lush » Vietnam

19. Viet Green Travel Blog

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21. XO Tours | Vietnam Blog

22. I Love Asia Tour | Vietnam Travel Tips

23. You In Da Nang

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Travel blogger là gì? 50 travel blogger nổi tiếng Việt Nam là ai?

Travel blogger nổi tiếng ở Việt Nam hiện tại đang truyền cảm hứng xê dịch cho nhiều người. Họ có thể xuất phát điểm từ nhiều ngành nghề khác nhau nhưng có chung 1 niềm đam mê du lịch. Hiện tại ở Việt Nam Travel blogger dần dần được nhiều bạn trẻ quan tâm và muốn trở thành.

Nội dung chính

Travel blogger Tuân Cuồng Chân sáng lập Cuồng Chân

Xin chào các bạn ! cám ơn các bạn đã ghé xem blog của mình, mình là Tuân sáng lập blog du lịch cuồng chân. Nên mình mang luôn cái biệt danh Tuân Cuồng chân, tại nếu lâu ngày không đi đâu thì chân nó cuồng nên mình lấy luôn cái tên là vậy. 

Blog du lịch của mình thành lập năm 2014 tính tới thời điểm viết bài này cũng được hơn 8 năm. Đây nhưng là 1 cuốn nhật ký trong suốt thời gian lang thang của mình ở mọi miền tổ quốc Việt Nam, cũng như tìm hiểu thế giới bên ngoài. Hiện tại mình cũng ít viết lại trên blog chủ yếu thông tin du lịch mình đều đăng trên fanpage và tiktok. Nếu mọi người có thời gian thì ghé qua chơi nhé.

Fanpage: Tuân Cuồng Chân Tiktok: Tuân Cuồng Chân

Vậy travel blogger là gì?

Blogger du lịch hay còn được gọi là travel blogger, để nói về những người say mê du lịch và chuyên viết blog, nhật ký cho mỗi chuyến đi của mình. Các chủ đề được chia sẻ rất đa dạng và phong phú như địa điểm, món ăn, kinh nghiệm…Do đó, những nhân vật này đã và đang truyền cảm hứng mạnh mẽ cho những ai cùng đam mê.

Top 50 Travel Blogger nổi tiếng

Dưới đây là danh sách top 50 travel blogger nổi tiếng ở Việt Nam. Số lượng này có thể nhiều hơn bạn có thể đóng góp cho chúng tôi thêm. Bạn tham khảo sau đó rút kinh nghiệm để tạo blog riêng cho mình nhé

Travel blogger Đinh Hằng

“Quá trẻ để chết: Hành trình nước Mỹ” không chỉ là cuốn sách để đọc và suy ngẫm mà còn là thể hiện quan điểm về nhân sinh và đam mê khám phá của cô gái trẻ. Mỗi chặng đường, mỗi chuyến đi đều là một câu chuyện mang lại giá trị về mọi khía cạnh. Tài năng viết lách của Đinh Hằng đã dẫn dắt người đọc đi đến mọi nẻo đường của thế giới.

Bên cạnh những chuyến đi khám phá thế giới là những chuyến thiện nguyện đầy tình người. Hãy theo chân cô gái này để được truyền lửa về sự đam mê, bản lĩnh và tự tin trong cuộc sống.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dinhhangstravels  

Travel blogger Rosie Nguyễn

Tài năng viết lách của Rosie Nguyễn thể hiện qua các cuốn sách nổi tiếng và đáng tìm đọc như “Ta balo trên đất Á”, “Tuổi trẻ đáng giá bao nhiêu”. Quả thật, tiêu đề của các cuốn sách như một lời thúc giục khát khao xê dịch từ tác giả.

Theo chân cô gái này, bạn không chỉ nhận được câu chuyện về những chuyến vi vu đó đây. Các bài học về cuộc sống từ kinh nghiệm bản thân đều được chia sẻ rộng rãi. Do đó, Rosie Nguyễn luôn được mọi người yêu quý và theo dõi càng nhiều mỗi ngày.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosienguyenvn

Travel blogger Trần Đặng Đăng Khoa

“1000 ngày hành trình vòng quanh thế giới” với chiếc Honda Wave đời 2008 của Đăng Khoa như một cú hích lớn trong cộng đồng đam mê xê dịch. Chuyến đi này như thể hiện khát khao mãnh liệt với thế giới bên ngoài cũng như thách thức giới hạn của bản thân của anh chàng phượt thủ siêu dễ thương.

Một lần vùng vẫy với đất trời chính là điều Đăng Khoa muốn truyền lửa đến cho các bạn trẻ. Bạn không cần phải chinh phục thế giới, chỉ cần cho phép bản thân làm điều mình thích.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/trandangdangkhoa

Travel blogger Quỷ Cốc Tử

Quỷ Cốc Tử có tên thật là Travel blogger Ngô Trần Hải An, là một trong những blogger Việt đầu đời. Với hơn 18 năm theo đuổi đam mê, tên tuổi của anh chàng chưa bao giờ ngừng “hot” trong cộng đồng.

Hành trình chinh phục “Con đường tơ lụa” đã mang cái tên Quỷ Cốc Tử đến gần hơn với mọi người thông qua những bức ảnh tuyệt đẹp và vô cùng chuyên nghiệp. Mỗi một nơi đặt chân đến, anh chàng đều lưu lại những khoảnh khắc để đời.

Website: www.quycoctu.net

Travel blogger Hoàng Lê Giang

Có thể đây là cái tên được báo chí nhắc đi nhắc lại rất nhiều lần với tiêu đề “Người Việt Nam đầu tiên chinh phục đỉnh Elbrus (Nga) và hành trình 300km khắc nghiệt với cái lạnh thấu xương – 30 độ C tại Bắc Cực”. Hoàng Lê Giang như một minh chứng rõ ràng cho việc tìm đến giới hạn cực đại của một con người.

Gia tài không chỉ dừng lại ở 2 hành trình nêu trên, anh còn đi đến hơn 36 quốc gia. 8 lần leo dãy Himalaya và sống sót sau trận bão tuyết kinh hoàng Nepal đều là những cột mốc khiến nhiều người kinh ngạc và khâm phục niềm đam mê mãnh liệt của anh với thế giới.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adventure.of.hlg

Trần Quang Đại

Anh chàng tài hoa này còn được biết đến với vai trò người mẫu và doanh nhân. Tuy nhiên, với vai trò là blogger, anh đã mang đến nhiều màu sắc khác nhau cho mọi người.

Lối viết dí dỏm, thu hút và các bức hình đậm chất cá nhân đã dẫn dắt người đọc theo nhiều cung bậc cảm xúc khác nhau. Theo chân Quang Đại để đóng nhận niềm vui trong mỗi chuyến đi nhé.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tranquangdai.vn 

Nằm trong top 50 travel blogger là một cây bút tài năng mê xê dịch Huyền Chip. “Xách balo lên và đi” là một trong những tác phẩm để đời của cô gái trẻ nhiều năng lượng. Thời điểm đó, tác phẩm này đã tạo nên một làn sóng sôi nổi trong cộng đồng thích vi vu đó đây. Và giờ này, cô gái ấy đã tốt nghiệp Thạc sỹ Trí Tuệ Nhân Tạo tại Đại học Stanford, Mỹ.

Kinh nghiệm học tập, sinh sống và các chuyến đi thú vị luôn được Huyền Chip cập nhật. Đừng bỏ lỡ những điều hay ho từ cô gái nhỏ xinh xắn nhé.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chipiscrazy/  

Travel blogger Khoai Lang Thang

Anh chàng hiền lành với nụ cười tỏa nắng đã lan tỏa nhiều năng lượng tích cực cho giới trẻ. Tên thật là Đinh Võ Hoài Thương nhưng anh chàng lại chọn cho mình một biệt danh gần gũi và dân dã hơn Travel blogger “Khoai Lang Thang” giống như cách anh ấy vi vu đó đây để giới thiệu về ẩm thực đất Việt và các địa điểm tham quan nổi tiếng đến gần hơn với cộng đồng trong và ngoài nước.

Phạm vi hoạt động chủ yếu trên Youtube nhằm mang lại những video chân thật nhất. Bạn sẽ phải tiếc nuối nếu bỏ lỡ anh chàng thú vị này đấy.

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/KhoaiLangThang

Nếu bạn yêu thích văn hóa địa phương thì An Vietnam là một trong những travel blogger bạn không nên bỏ lỡ. Phong cách tự sự, mộc mạc của An mang đến sự yên bình và giản dị.

Không quá vụt sáng như blogger khác, blog của An lại nhẹ nhàng như phong cách của chính mình. Theo dõi cô gái này để hiểu thêm hơn về các vẻ đẹp văn hóa của Việt Nam nhé.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anvietnamblogger 

Lý Thành Cơ

Blogger sinh năm 1992 đã bắt đầu con đường của mình từ năm 2014. Anh góp mặt trong top những travel blogger nổi tiếng Việt Nam với sự xuất hiện ở nhiều tờ báo lớn như Zing, VnExpress và kênh truyền hình quốc gia.

Nguồn cảm hứng dồi dào từ các chuyến đi đến hơn 40 quốc gia khác nhau đã giúp Lý Thành Cơ mang đến nhiều nội dung chất lượng cho cộng đồng mê xê dịch.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/venturology/ 

Bạn muốn tìm đến một travel blogger mang nhiều năng lượng trẻ trung? Vậy thì Lê Hà Trúc là cái tên bạn phải lưu ngay vào danh sách cần tìm rồi.

Không chỉ sở hữu những bức ảnh nghệ thuật mà gu thời trang của Trúc được đánh giá rất cao. Bạn không chỉ học hỏi kinh nghiệm về các chuyến đi mà có thể tự làm mới bản thân nhờ vào cô gái này.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lehatruc

Theo chân Nhị Đặng, cô sẽ dẫn bạn đến những miền đất hoang sơ và mới mẻ. Đây chắc chắn là niềm đam mê cho những ai thích du lịch bụi rồi.

Ngoài các bức ảnh đẹp, Nhị Đặng còn dựng các thước phim ngắn để mang đến những góc quay trọn vẹn nhất của thiên nhiên mộc mạc đến với người xem.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nhidangtravelblog 

Nguyễn Sơn Tùng

Chàng trai này chính là chủ nhân của trang blog Lạc mà có thể bạn đã từng bắt gặp. Các bức ảnh xinh đẹp của Nhật Bản được Tùng lan tỏa với phần còn lại của thế giới một cách tinh tế và nhẹ nhàng.

Tùng đang du học tại Nhật và đó là lý do các bức ảnh xứ sở anh đào ra đời. Trong tương lai, chắc chắn chúng ta sẽ đón nhận được nhiều tác phẩm hay ho từ anh chàng điển trai này.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sontungst/?hl=vi

Nhờ vào tuyệt chiêu tạo ra những shoot hình thơ mộng và nội dung đa dạng mà Sơn Đoàn trở thành cái tên được tìm kiếm hàng đầu trên Instagram. Lối kể chuyện thu hút sẽ khiến bạn đi từ bất ngờ này đến ngạc nhiên khác.

Hiện tại chàng trai vẫn luôn hoạt động tích cực trên Instagram với hình ảnh trong trẻo. Niềm đam mê xê dịch vẫn chưa bao giờ hạ nhiệt để truyền cảm hứng cho mọi người.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/son.chans 

Nếu ai từng một thời hâm mộ “hoàng tử Sơn Ca” thì chắc hẳn bạn sẽ rất thích thú khi giờ đây Quang Vinh đã trở thành một travel blogger đình đám. Sau mỗi chuyến đi, Vinh luôn viết những trải nghiệm của mình đầy lôi cuốn.

Du lịch nghỉ dưỡng là xu hướng mà Quang Vinh đang theo đuổi. Các chặng đường du ngoạn từ Ấn Độ, Pháp, Thổ Nhĩ Kỳ..sẽ mang đến cho bạn nhiều điều hay ho.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/quangvinh

Hoàng Tú Hương

Trong top 50 Travel Blogger xin phép gọi tên Hoàng Tú Hương, còn được biết đến với tên gọi Helena. Trong cộng đồng phượt thủ, cô gái 1992 này được xem là một trong những người đặt nền móng đầu tiên cho nghề travel blogger tại Việt Nam.

Theo chân Helena để chiêm ngưỡng vẻ đẹp của các thành phố lớn trên thế giới. Chắc hẳn 23 quốc gia mà cô nàng từng đi qua sẽ khiến bạn trầm trồ.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helena.hg 

Sự thơ mộng và lãng mạn phương Tây được Kiều Trang truyền tải qua nhiều bức ảnh đẹp. Gam màu trong sáng và nhẹ nhàng sẽ là nơi yêu thích cho những cô gái ngây thơ và trong sáng.

Với hơn 34.8K người theo dõi trên Instagram, Trang vẫn luôn duy trì niềm đam mê của mình trong những chuyến đi.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/halleytran_ 

Nguyễn Trúc Lâm (Lamtom)

Những kiến thức uyên thâm và trải nghiệm mới lạ của Trúc Lâm đã mang đến nhiều góc nhìn mới mẻ cho du lịch bụi trong và ngoài nước. Các shoot hình chuyên nghiệp cùng cách phối màu độc đáo sẽ giúp bạn mở mang thẩm mỹ nhanh chóng.

Chủ nhân của kênh Lamtom trên Facebook và Instagram luôn mang đến sự mới mẻ mỗi ngày. Đừng bỏ lỡ những cung đường mới lạ và hấp dẫn của Trúc Lâm nhé.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lamtom215

Đến với blog Taste of the Bear, bạn không chỉ mãn nhãn mà còn mãn nguyện. Hình ảnh đẹp, thức ăn ngon và thông tin hữu ích luôn hiện diện ở những nơi Nam đặt chân đến.

Vốn là Foodstylist, Nam Nguyễn có kinh nghiệm sâu rộng về ẩm thực và trau chuốt hình ảnh. Theo dõi các thông tin hữu ích từ chàng trai đa tài này nhé.

Website: https://tasteofthebear.com

Vinh Gấu sở hữu kênh A Wanderlust – nơi chia sẻ các thông tin hữu ích về du lịch. Từ kinh nghiệm làm visa, kỹ năng xê dịch và các phong cảnh đẹp mê người, bạn có thể tự mình khám phá một thế giới mới tại đây.

Ngoài ra, anh còn được biết đến là “Ông trùm hot teen thế hệ mới”. Khám phá những điều mới mẻ và bổ ích tại blog của anh Vinh Gấu ngay và luôn.

Website: https://vinhgau.com

Phan Thế Anh

Là một giảng viên Marketing nhưng niềm đam mê xê dịch không thể khiến Thế Anh ở yên một chỗ. Dấn thân trên con đường blogger du lịch với một phong cách dị biệt và độc đáo.

Vẻ đẹp của vạn vật được anh chàng khéo léo mang đến với mọi người ở nhiều góc độ khác nhau, nhờ đó mà trải nghiệm về các chuyến du ngoạn cũng trở nên nhiều màu sắc hơn.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lecturer.anh 

Bill Balo có tên thật là Nguyễn Cao Thắng sở hữu cho mình gia tài trải nghiệm du lịch dồi dào. Với những người yêu thích anh chàng có thể cũng sẽ thấy được hành trình khám phá mọi ngóc ngách của Việt Nam xinh đẹp cùng các quốc gia lân cận.

Hơn hết, anh chàng còn có đồng đội cùng vi vu và cộng đồng mê xê dịch của riêng mình. Bạn có thể tham gia cộng đồng này để học hỏi nhiều kinh nghiệm lý thú từ Bill Balo.

Website: https://billbalo.com

Thiện Nguyễn

Theo chân Thiện Nguyễn để khám phá những điều mới mẻ ngoài kia, bạn đồng ý chứ? Những bức ảnh đẹp và lối kể chuyện hấp dẫn đã giúp Thiện Nguyễn truyền cảm hứng xê dịch đến những ai có khát khao tìm tòi điều mới lạ ở nhiều vùng đất khác nhau.

Bhutan, Nhật Bản, Nepal, Tây Tạng…những chuyến đi xuyên quốc gia không kể hết. Đừng bỏ lỡ các chuyến mới của chàng blogger này nhé.

Website: https://www.facebook.com/thiennguyenhuu

Nguyễn Hoàng Bảo

Hoàng Bảo là một trong những cây đa cây đề của cộng đồng travel blogger Việt Nam. Chinh phục 73 quốc gia đã tích lũy cho anh những kiến thức sâu rộng và phong phú cùng những trải nghiệm khó quên.

Cuốn sách “Độc Hành” cùng blog “Những bước chân” của anh đã từng khuấy đảo lĩnh vực du lịch trong thời gian dài và là những tinh hoa kiến thức mà bạn không thể bỏ qua nếu có khát khao khám phá thế giới.

Website: http://nhungbuocchan.com 

Xem thêm bài: 50 travel blogger nổi tiếng thế giới

Nguyễn Phương Mai

Không chỉ là blogger du lịch, Phương Mai còn được biết đến là một tác giả nổi tiếng. Các tác phẩm “Con đường Hồi giáo”, “Tôi là một con lừa” sẽ khiến bạn trầm trồ về kiến thức cũng như thực lực của nữ blogger này.

Nguyễn Phương Mai không chỉ mang đến kiến thức về du lịch mà còn mang đến các giá trị văn hóa dưới góc nhìn sâu sắc của một nhà nghiên cứu. Có thể bạn không biết, cô đã có bằng Tiến sĩ ngành Giao tiếp đa văn hóa và Thạc sỹ KH ngành Thiết kế Giáo dục, đồng thời đang công tác tại ĐH Amsterdam (Hà Lan).

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dr.nguyenphuongmai 

Hachi Hachi

Tên thật của blogger là Ngô Huy Hòa, sinh ra tại Hà Nội. Anh chàng được nhiều người biết đến thông qua các thước phim đẹp tuyệt mỹ đến xiêu lòng.

Nam blogger là minh chứng rõ nhất của việc thoát khỏi vùng an toàn để làm những điều mình thích. Từng có bằng thạc sỹ, công việc ổn định nhưng khát khao xê dịch là mang đến cho chúng ta một blogger tài năng mang tên Hachi Hachi.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ngohuyhoa

Là chủ nhân của kênh blog Thích đi bụi – tiếng tăm và khuấy đảo cộng đồng một thời. Sự khác lạ của Quỳnh Dung là độc hành xê dịch bằng xe đạp.

Đạp xe đạp và khám phá Châu Á – nghe có vẻ không tưởng nhưng cô gái này đã làm được. Do đó, các kiến thức và kinh nghiệm mà Quỳnh Dung mang lại gần như là độc nhất vô nhị.

Website: https://thichdibui.blogspot.com 

Ngọc Quyên là nữ blogger Việt đang sinh sống tại Na Uy. Cô nàng sở hữu blog mang tên Misa Gjone cung cấp kiến thức du lịch Châu Âu hữu ích.

Blog sở hữu giao diện thân thiện, dễ tìm kiếm nhưng không kém phần lung linh. Không sai khi blog này chính là cẩm nang du lịch Châu Âu bạn không thể bỏ lỡ.

Website: https://www.misagjone.com

Cô gái Ngân Balo có tên thật đầy đủ là Hà Ngọc Hân. Cô nổi tiếng với biệt danh là thổ địa Philippines với hàng loạt bài viết hay ho về đất nước này.

Ngoài ra, các shoot hình đẹp và bài viết về ẩm thực sẽ mang lại cho bạn đọc nhiều sự mới mẻ.

Website: https://nganbalo.com

Andy Nguyen

Là một trong những travel blogger đời đầu, hiện tại Andy Nguyen đã là CEO sở hữu một công ty du lịch cung cấp các tour du lịch thú vị được nhiều tín đồ mê xê dịch yêu thích.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ToiDi.net/

Cuốn sách “Bụi đường tuổi trẻ” của Tâm Bùi đã mang đến nhiều động lực ở bản thân cho giới trẻ. Những gì anh trải qua không chỉ là kinh nghiệm mà còn là thử thách giới hạn của bản thân.

Các bức ảnh xinh xắn và ấn tượng đang mang đến nhiều góc nhìn cho mọi người về thế giới bao la ngoài kia. Cùng tiếp tục học những bài học quý giá cùng Tâm Bùi trong hành trình tiếp theo nhé.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TambuiPhotography/

Tuân Cuồng Chân

Nam blogger luôn cho rằng mình hay viết linh tinh nhưng thật ra điều là tinh hoa. Mỗi bài viết đều mang đến những kinh nghiệm và cảm hứng cho người đọc. Điều này thật tuyệt vời cho những ai chuẩn bị vi vu khám phá thế giới ngoài kia.

Ngoài đời, anh chàng là một người hóm hỉnh và thú vị. Cách nói chuyện có điểm nhấn sẽ mang đến cho bạn nhiều điều thú vị.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tuancuongchan.fp/

Trần Việt Anh

Trần Việt Anh xứng đáng nằm trong top 50 travel blogger hàng đầu Việt Nam. Hiện tại, anh là chủ quản của trang Dulichbui24.com cung cấp nhiều thông tin hữu ích.

Các hành trình mà Việt Anh thực hiện sẽ khiến bạn phải ghen tị đôi phần. Đạp xe qua 63 tỉnh thành của dải đất hình chữ S, đạp xe qua 4 nước Đông Nam Á (Lào, Thái Lan, Campuchia và Myanmar)…Đồng thời anh vừa làm việc vừa tận hưởng chuyến đi của mình.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloggertranvietanh/

Blogger Tùng Lâm nổi tiếng với blog Dulichbui.org – được xem là một trong những blog đầu đời. Blog Dulichbui.org mang đến nhiều địa điểm du lịch hấp dẫn, ẩm thực và kinh nghiệm vui chơi bổ ích.

Hiện tại blog này đã trở thành cổng thông tin hướng dẫn du lịch nhằm tiếp cận gần hơn với mọi người mọi nhà để chuẩn bị cho mình những chuyến đi ý nghĩa.

Website: https://dulichbui.org/author/tunglam

Trần Việt Phương

Trần Việt Phương sở hữu cho mình gia tài khá đồ sộ về du lịch. Trong đó gồm Vlog Yêu Máy Bay, Blog Travip và cả viết sách để truyền tải những thông tin hữu ích về du lịch khám phá cũng như niềm đam mê xê dịch đến tất cả mọi người.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/travip

Trung Nguyễn

Điển hình của niềm đam mê, blogger Trung Nguyễn luôn tỉ mẩn với công việc của mình. Mặc dù chưa được mọi người biết đến nhưng nam blogger đã và đang chia sẻ hơn 1000 bài viết về tất tần tật các thông tin về du lịch phượt.

Từ ăn uống, đi lại, nhà ở đến địa điểm, kinh nghiệm…Tất cả mọi thứ đều được chia sẻ chi tiết và cẩn thận. Tham quan blog của Trung để lưu lại những kiến thức hay ho nhé.

Lê Xuân Lộc

Niềm đam mê du lịch và viết lách đã giúp Xuân Lộc tỏa sáng trong lĩnh vực mình đang theo đuổi là marketing online. Từ năm 2014 anh đã từng làm CTV du lịch cho các tờ báo lớn như Tuổi Trẻ, VnExpress, Zing…Do đó kinh nghiệm và kiến thức của nam blogger ngày càng phong phú và đa dạng.

Xuân Lộc sở hữu blog kenhhomestay.com chủ yếu review cẩm nang du lịch phượt và nơi ở như homestay, khách sạn, resort, nơi lưu trú trong các chuyến đi.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kenhhomestay/

Xuất thân là một nhiếp ảnh gia, Đỗ Vy là một trong những cái tên truyền cảm hứng mới cho các tín đồ đam mê xê dịch thông qua những bức ảnh đầy xúc cảm sau mỗi chuyến đi.

Dù chưa thật sự chính thức trở thành blogger du lịch chuyên nghiệp, nhưng Đỗ Vy vẫn biết cách tạo ra dấu ấn riêng thông qua các shoot hình đầy ấn tượng.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dovy.ptg

Trang Olive

Trang Olive hay còn được biết đến với các tên dí dỏm “Olive siêu nhân”. Niềm đam mê bất tận với du lịch và ẩm thực đã giúp Trang lan tỏa các chuyến đi của mình đến với mọi người.

Khác với các blogger khác, cô nàng lưu giữ những khoảnh khắc như một cuốn nhật ký. Chắc hẳn sau này khi nhìn lại, Trang sẽ rất tự hào về hành trình của mình. Ngoài du lịch đó đây, Trang còn có kinh doanh riêng và vận hành khá tốt. Dường như cô nàng là minh chứng cho việc đi du lịch nhưng vẫn làm tốt công việc.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/olivesieunhan/

Phạm Mai Hương

Cô gái nhỏ nhắn sẽ khiến bạn bất ngờ bởi niềm đam mê khám phá “cổ đại”. Hương thích khám phá những vùng đất hoang sơ, lối sống cổ đại và ghi lại những thước phim về những nền văn hóa có khả năng “biến mất hoàn toàn” trong tương lai.

Hành trình đáng mơ ước như đến bộ lạc Tsaatan ở biên giới Nga – Mông Cổ, bộ lạc Apatani, Ziro, biên giới Ấn Độ – Trung Quốc…đã mang lại cho Hương những giây phút và trải nghiệm quý giá. Theo chân Hương đến các vùng đất tưởng chừng như bị lãng quên của thế giới nhé.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maihuongbc

Vũ Phương Thanh

Nữ blogger mang đến những trải nghiệm mà tưởng chừng như rất ít người có thể làm được. Năm 2016, Thanh hoàng thành thử thách “4 Deserts Grand Slam” với hơn 1000km trải dài trên 4 sa mạc khắc nghiệt nhất thế giới và cô nàng là người phụ nữ đến từ Châu Á đầu tiên hoàn thành được thử thách trong số 13 người phụ nữ làm được điều này trên toàn cầu.

Du lịch kết hợp hoạt động xã hội chính là điều mà Phương Thanh muốn lan tỏa đến giới trẻ. Trải nghiệm không chỉ là thưởng thức mà còn là thử thách giới hạn cực đại của bản thân.

Nguyễn Thị Hoàng Oanh

Hoàng Oanh là một trong những blogger có sở thích du lịch chậm. Các chuyến đi của cô là vài tuần đến vài tháng để có thể hòa mình vào văn hóa và nhịp sống của địa phương.

Trải qua hơn 50 quốc gia với hơn 100 thành phố khác nhau là một con số không tưởng. Nhưng với Hoàng Oanh, thế vẫn là chưa đủ và hành trình vẫn còn tiếp tục.

Nguyễn Thùy Trang

Nữ blogger 1995 sẽ khiến bạn đi từ bất ngờ này đến bất ngờ khác. Để thỏa mãn đam mê xê dịch mà cô gái sẵn sàng chi hơn nửa tỷ đồng để vi vu khắp nơi liền tù tì 600 ngày trong vòng 2 năm. Và thật sự xứng đáng khi Trang tích lũy cho mình không chỉ là những trải nghiệm tuyệt vời mà còn là những người bạn tốt trên những chặng đường đi qua.

Phương châm của Trang rất rõ ràng, tiền là dành cho gia đình, bạn bè thân thiết và du lịch. Còn lại thì dạt hết qua một bên. Đừng bỏ lỡ những chuyến đi sắp tới của Trang với những kinh nghiệm thú vị nhé.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thuytrangnguyen110

Phùng Thị Thảo Nhung

Thảo Nhung là một nữ blogger 9x đa tài được nhiều người biết đến. Không chỉ mang đến những thông tin hay ho về du lịch, Thảo Nhung còn mang đến những phương pháp kiếm tiền online. Điều này giúp ích cho những ai đam mê xê dịch khi mà bạn có thể vừa làm việc vừa tận hưởng các chuyến đi của mình một cách trọn vẹn.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/phuot.vivu.35

Adaline Ngo

Adaline Ngo là một nữ blogger mang đến những review về nhiều quốc gia khác nhau. Hiện tại, cô đang sinh sống tại Philippines và có niềm đam mê bất diệt với du lịch. Song song đó, thời trang và lối sống hiện đại cũng là những chủ đề Adaline luôn chia sẻ đến mọi người trên website của mình.

Một kho tàng thông tin và kinh nghiệm quý báu đang chờ đón bạn. Chần chờ gì mà không khám phá để chuẩn bị cho chuyến đi sắp tới nhé.

Website: bylinhngo.com

Sở hữu cổng thông tin về du lịch baynhe.vn, anh Bụi là một trong những blogger được nhiều người biết đến. Trang của anh Bụi không chỉ mang đến các kiến thức về du lịch như địa điểm, ẩm thực, kinh nghiệm vui chơi mà còn hỗ trợ đặt vé máy bay, các tour du lịch trọn gói giúp bạn và gia đình có những chuyến đi nhiều ý nghĩa.

Website: baynhe.vn

Có lẽ điều ấn tượng nhất với nam blogger này chính là slogan: Hãy thách thức tôi. Một slogan thể hiện quan điểm, bản lĩnh của một người yêu khám phá những điều mới mẻ.

Các video của Hoàng Nam tập trung vào khám phá văn hóa và lối sống địa phương. Nhờ đó mà anh học hỏi rất nhiều điều độc đáo cũng như làm dồi dào kho báu du lịch của mình.

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/NamChallengeMe

Tung Tăng TV

Cái tên của kênh Youtube cũng đủ nói lên đam mê xê dịch của anh chàng. Những thước phim chân thực review chi tiết về từng điểm đến sẽ giúp bạn có cái nhìn rõ nét hơn về những vùng đất mà bạn chưa từng đặt chân đến.

Khám phá nguồn thông tin bổ ích và hấp dẫn tại kênh Youtube của nam blogger này nhé.

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TungTangTV

Nếu bạn có một tình yêu vô điều kiện với dải đất hình chữ S thì Nếm TV là nơi giúp bạn thêm dạt dào cảm xúc với những video rất Việt Nam. Mọi ngóc ngách của đất nước đều được nam blogger xây dựng thành những thước phim sống động như thể muốn lan tỏa tình yêu và đam mê xê dịch đến với mọi người.

Nếu có blogger Tung Tăng thì ắt hẳn sẽ có blogger thích La Cà thú vị. Rong ruổi khắp nơi với khát khao khám phá những điều thú vị đã tạo nên kênh Youtube Chan La Cà. Từ những điều bình dị của con người đất Việt đến thước phim đi bụi 1 mình ở đất nước xa lạ đã mang đến những video sống động.

Đặc biệt, nam blogger còn có tài lẻ ca hát khá đỉnh. Theo chân Chan La Cà để biết thêm nhiều điều hay ho nhé.

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@hello.chanlaca

Top 50 travel blogger nổi tiếng của chúng ta có lẽ là đủ cho những tín đồ mê xê dịch tích góp cho mình những thông tin và khát khao khám phá thế giới ngoài kia. Hãy sống trọn đam mê của mình ngay hôm nay để sau này khi nhìn lại, bạn sẽ không còn điều gì phải nuối tiếc.

Xin chào các bạn ! Mình là Tuân Cuồng Chân hiện nay là 1 travel blogger. Chào mừng bạn đến với blog du lịch của mình. Ở đây mình chia sẻ những trải nghiệm trong cuộc đời lang thang của mình. Và những mẹo hay kinh nghiệm về du lịch có thể giúp bạn tham khảo để chuẩn bị những chuyếnn đi của mình. Cám ơn bạn đã ghé thăm blog cá nhân của mình có bất kỳ thắc mắc nào, bạn có thể bình luận hoặc gửi mail về cho mình, mình sẽ giải đáp tất cả cho các bạn.

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20 Things to Know Before you Travel to Vietnam

Vietnam isn’t always topping the bucketlist of the southeast Asia traveler. With Thailand, Cambodia and Laos in its back garden and the beautiful islands of the Philippines just offshore there is fierce competition. However, traveling to Vietnam is beautiful in its own and has a lot to offer. With this Vietnam travel blog I am giving you 20 essential things you need to know before your trip and that help you enjoying this beautiful country even more.

My first trip to Vietnam I took in 2008 as part of my trip around the world. Unfortunately it was my second last country before flying back home after 12 months on the road and I only had two weeks. That time I traveled from Cambodia to Ho Chi Minh City and via the Mekong Delta up to the DMZ where I crossed into Laos. In 2013 I came back to explore the Northern regions and in 2017 and 2018 I was in Ho Chi Minh City and Quang Binh. 

As you can see I love to travel to Vietnam. In total I have now been 4 times, but whenever I get the chance I will be back again. I am sure with my experience I am able to give you some vital Vietnam travel tips that will be of good use on your next journey.

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Stay connected and don't waste money on high roaming charge when traveling to Vietnam? Check out my complete guide for buying a sim card for Vietnam with the best prepaid and e-sim cards .

Here are Traveltomtom's 20 essential Vietnam travel tips to make sure you have an amazing trip to Vietnam.

1. Is it safe to travel to Vietnam

Generally spoken one should not have any problems when visiting Vietnam. The most common threats are road accidents, theft and in a rare occasion snatch and grab. Just always make sure to use common sense. This sounds really obvious but I have seen so many ignorant tourists in those 7 years I’m now traveling around the world.

2. Do you need vaccinations for Vietnam

There is no direct need for you to get vaccinations when you visit Vietnam. I have never taken any particular medication for any trip to Vietnam. It is adviced you have the standard childhood diseases shots. Shots against Hepatitis A and B are recommended to have, but aren't needed necessarily. Malaria occurs in Vietnam but very rarely. I have never taken any malaria pills and I have been trekking in the countryside. Some people do, some people don’t, but I have never heard someone catching malaria when traveling to Vietnam.

3. What is the best time of the year to visit Vietnam

For a lot of countries in Southeast Asia it is hard to determine, but the best time of year to travel to Vietnam is easy: March and April. Spring gets the least amount of rain and has moderate temperatures. The rainy season in Vietnam lasts from May to October. Mind you that especially the North of Vietnam has distinct summer and winter seasons. Snowfall in Hanoi is very rare, but it has happened before. If you decide to go for a trekking in Sapa, one of the best things to do in Vietnam, then beware that December, January and February it can be really cold. When you visit South Vietnam there is no need to bring warm clothes as the lowest average temperature in Ho Chi Minh is in December: 27 C / 81 F.

4. Do you need a visa to travel to Vietnam

The visa requirements for Vietnam are getting easier with the years. I remember my first time I had to drop my passport at the embassy for 3 days in Cambodia. In 2013 I already used the visa on arrival and nowadays a tourist visa for Vietnam can easily be obtained online.

Most countries still need a visa though, this in contrast with other southeast asian countries like: Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, Indonesia where you can enter visa free.

5. How much does a Vietnam trip cost

You can make it as expensive as you wish. There are fancy nightclubs in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh where a cocktail can easily cost $20, but you can also go local. For your backpacking Vietnam trip you should count on $40 per day, which makes you stay in hostels, eat local food, rent scooters, do sightseeing trip and small tours. When you travel to Vietnam as a couple you can count the same ($40 per person per day), a mid-range hotel is not much more expensive than $30 a night, food in a little upscale restaurant is about $10 and private tours will cost you about $25 per person per day. In many Vietnam blogs I read that you need a minimum of $50 a day, but with that money you can live large.

6. History of Vietnam is rough

You won’t be able to refrain yourself from being fascinated by Vietnam’s long and interesting history even if you’re not a history buff. It is one of the oldest cultures in Southeast Asia dating back to 2000 BC and ever since it has been influenced by many others: Chinese, Khmer, Indian, Japanese and also Western.

Because of colonization, war eventually rummaged the country, a series of very tragical events in history which are still in the minds of many Vietnamese. For them however, it is much more than a war. Their nation’s efforts and determination enabled them to defeat the French and make the Americans retreat and finally become one country.

The country is filled with educational sites for you to learn more about these historic events, the Vietnam war, and even its aftermath. In fact, each city has monuments and museums that showcase the country’s deep-seated history.

7. War related tourist places in Vietnam

War remnants museum hcmc.

In Saigon one can visit both the emotion-inducing War Remnants Museum and the Independence Palace. The palace is also known as Reunification Palace, which is a national historical and cultural relic to the Vietnam War. I am pretty sure the War Remnants Museum makes you speechless. In 2018 I came back here 9 years after my first visit and I walked around for almost 2 hours, reading every photo subscription. These places always give me goosebumps! When traveling to Vietnam definitely put this on your list of places to visit.

Cu Chi Tunnels

Go to the outskirts of Saigon to have an insider look of the tunnel life at the Cu Chi Tunnels, a vast network of tunnels built by the Viet Cong to protect themselves against the invading Americans. The tunnels are considered to have made a great contribution to the victory of the Vietnamese.

Those who aren’t claustrophobic may try crawling some small sections of the tunnel network. With my 1.86 meters I can tell you it is a punishment! Visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels is great to learn about the Vietnam War and one of the most interesting places to visit in Vietnam.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

In Hanoi, you can visit Ba Dinh Square, the largest square in Vietnam where many important national historical events in Vietnam’s modern history took place. Get to know more of the ‘Father of Vietnam’: Mr. Ho Chi Minh himself at the Ho Chi Minh Museum, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the Ho Chi Minh Stilt House. Whatever you do, when traveling to Vietnam always be respectful to their history and past leaders!

Hoa Lo Prison

In Hanoi you can also find the former Hoa Lo Prison, which translates to ‘fiery furnace’. Nowadays it is a museum which depicts what the Vietnamese prisoners had to go through during the time the French were ruling in Vietnam. A special section has been designated for the prisoners of war during the Vietnam war.

All the sites mentioned above are super interesting and made a deep impression on me. Even if history is not your reason to visit Vietnam, these place offer important lessons for understanding the todays culture of the Vietnamese people.

8. Hanoi is the best place to visit in Vietnam

The streets of Old Town Hanoi made me fall in love with this country even more. It was only on my second trip to Vietnam that I ended up in the capital city. The cosy, but extremely bustling streets of Hanoi always remind me why I love traveling in Southeast Asia so much. It sounds simple but going out at night in Old Town Hanoi is one of the best things to do in Vietnam.

May be it was because of the super cheap Beer Hoi, which costs only like $0,20 per pint sometimes. Not the best beer in the world, but drinking Beer Hoi is something you must try when you visit Vietnam. Fun guaranteed!

When you want to soak up ancient village life then visit Duong Lam in Hanoi. It has the basic features of a Northern traditional Vietnamese village which are water wharves, communal grounds, and pagodas scattered with banyan trees. You will continue to feel being stuck in the past. French colonial architecture, pavement cafes, and wide tree-lined boulevards are what makes this place old-fashioned.

9. Ho Chi Minh City is very modern

Unfortunately I have been more times to Ho Chi Minh City than to Hanoi, because although I like Ho Chi Minh City I am much more a fan of Hanoi. So if you visit Vietnam and you have to choose between both of them I would say go North and skip Ho Chi Minh City. Nevertheless I always had a great time in this crazy big city where modern life meets the local lifestyle. From Ho Chi Minh it is easy to organize trips into the Mekong Delta.

10. Visiting Hoi An is the best thing to do in Vietnam

Despite the damage caused due to Vietnams turbulent past, many ancient structures managed to remain intact. Take Hoi An Old Town, one of the best places to visit in Vietnam for instance. This ancient riverside trading town with well-preserved buildings and temples that date back to the 17th century is where Chinese merchants settled at first. Today, the descendants of the Chinese merchants continue to sell their products. Hoi An is lit up at night by multiple colorful lanterns in the streets. Loads of backpackers tend to get stuck here and great thing is that the beach is just 10 minutes away on a bicycle.

Make your way towards the My Son Temple Complex a great day trip from Hoi An. My Son, which means ‘beautiful mountain’ got mostly destroyed during the American bombings in the Vietnam War. It is still worth going because some temples survived the bombing and are well-preserved. The complex used to be a place of worship by the Champa people and was built between the 4th and 13th centuries. Visiting My Son is one of the best Vietnam travel tips I found among Vietnam blogs.

11. Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park for the largest cave in the world

You will surely be impressed by Vietnams natural wonders. Vietnam is for example home to the biggest cave in the world - the Son Doong cave located at the heart of Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park . It can be explored through a cave expedition, but only with an official tour operator. In 2018 I visited the Quang Binh Province and some of the caves, it is among my highlights of Vietnam.

When looking for cool things to do in Vietnam then think about caving in this national park, so worth it. For me it was one of the highlights visiting Vietnam.

12. Visiting Halong Bay is mind blowing

When around no one should miss Halong Bay, one of the natural world wonders. There are about 1,600 limestone islands and islets dotted around emerald waters, an absolute must see when you travel to Vietnam. There are even charming deserted islands and beaches where you can stay overnight or go multi day cruising on an old wooden ship. The Halong Bay area is obviously one of the best places to see in Vietnam.

13. The Sapa Rice Fields are Magical

Leisure travelers may opt to trek the mountainous Sapa region close to the Chinese border. Although the terraced rice fields are man-made, the natural surroundings make the experience wonderful. An opportunity to experience living like a local is possible with the local ethnic tribes offering homestay accommodation to willing guests. Trust me when you travel to Vietnam this is a must do. On my second Vietnam trip I did this for 3 days and absolutely loved it. During the day you trek through the rice fields up and down on the rim of these terraces and through the woods. We stayed overnight in local homes. Help them preparing dinner at night (free cooking classes), cool off in the river, learn about their culture and drink rice wine (very strong clear shot) till you fall of your chair. This experience is one of the best value for money tours in Vietnam and so much fun. I always wanted to write a separate Vietnam travel blog about this, but it was already in 2013 when I did this.

14. Festivals in Vietnam

While holding religious significance and imbibed with tradition, festivals in Vietnam provide an authentic Vietnam experience. Vietnamese know how to party, trust me I have experienced it many times. Their hospitality is enormous, especially when they are drunk and not that shy anymore! :)

Vietnamese New Year

The most important festival in Vietnam is the Tet Nguyen Dan or Lunar New Year as a result of a country with Buddhism as the predominant religion. Equivalent to the Chinese new year, Vietnamese welcome the new year by creating noise whether its simple beating of drums, lighting firecrackers or prodding dogs to bark. The morning is characterised with honoring ancestors, visiting temples and handing out flowers as part of the ritual. Meanwhile, evenings get really crazy because of all the celebrations and of course alcohol. Vietnamese New Year is always somewhere around end of January or the beginning of February.

Hue Festival

Unfortunately I have never experienced this festival myself but I have heard so much about it that it is on my list of things to do in Vietnam. If you love the arts, head to Hue City, the capital of Thua Thien Hue province in Central Vietnam. It is the only place where the Hue Festival is celebrated every two years. The traditional customs practiced during the Nguyen dynasty are relived through different showcases and activities. Expect street performances, film screenings, art exhibitions, Ao Dai Fashion Shows, Hue Poetry Festival, and Dialogue of Drums and Percussions. For sporting activities, there is kite flying, boat racing, and human chess.

Hoi An Lantern Festival

This festival attracts a large number of visitors and is a very popular festival among Vietnamese and tourists. Every 14th day of the lunar month whereby it is the full moon, every establishment in the Ancient Town turns off all their lights. They utilize multi-colored lanterns lit with candles for illumination and are also placed on the river for well wishing. You may opt to see lanterns on the water from the riverbank or organise a local boat ride. Trust me when you are around this is one of the better Vietnam travel tips I got along my travels. You will love it!

You can freely and safely wander the streets of Hoi An that bask in a magical glow because this day any motorised vehicles are banned. The streets are filled with musicians playing traditional instruments like drums, fiddles, and bamboo flutes. Other activities that you can enjoy include lantern-making classes, Chinese chess, and poetry readings. This festival is one big happening and among the best things to do in Vietnam.

15. Water puppet is a Vietnamese tradition

Vietnam has a fascinating fusion of culture from its occupants and colonizers. However, age-old customs still prevail. One of them is the water puppetry that dates back to the 11th century. It features skilful manipulation of the puppets by the puppeteers hidden from the audience. Performed on a waist-deep pool, the puppets appear to be moving on the water by themselves. The stories are usually about everyday lives, ancient legends, and historical stories so it isn’t for mere entertainment. What further makes the show interesting is the reliance on live background music. There are many Water Puppet Theaters around the country, but the ones in Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi are the most suitable for tourists.

I have been to the one in Ho Chi Minh city and it was such a cool things to see that I wanted to include it in this Vietnam travel blog.

16. Silk paintings is traditional art 

Another traditional art performance worth admiring is silk painting. Which is the creation of a painting on a piece of silk cloth. Watercolor, ink, or dye are utilized for vibrant colors and creating simple subjects which are often a portrayal of beautiful natural landscapes or rural life. It is important to note that this painting  style calls for meticulousness because a wrong brush stroke can’t be erased. Silk paintings can be purchased in one of the many fine art galleries and shops located in Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi.

17. Floating markets also exist in Vietnam

Local floating markets are among my favorite places to visit in Vietnam. They date back to the reign of the 19th century Nguyen Dynasty and contribute to the uniqueness of Vietnams culture. It reflects the way of life and is a source of livelihood for those who live in the Mekong Delta. Sellers basically sell their goods by boat. The most popular floating market due to its close proximity to Ho Chi Minh City, convenience to get to this place, and scale is the Cai Rang market. It is a wholesale market for fresh fruits. You can try out exotic fruits here like Vinh Long pink kiwi kumquat. Make sure to go here early in the morning not only to see a beautiful sunrise on the way but also to have a typical breakfast on one of the many boats.

18. Vietnamese cuisine is a must try

Most people, when they hear Vietnamese food, the first thought that pops into their mind is Pho, a soup broth dish with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and meat. But there is more to Vietnamese food than what you might expect. I had the honor to dine with Australia’s Masterchef Luke Nguyen, who is originally from Ho Chi Minh City. Trying his exceptional creations was outstanding.

The common denominator among the regional cuisines is the main use of rice and fish sauce in most dishes. Expect to see a form of rice on almost all meals especially that Vietnam is the second largest rice exporter in the world. They have rice noodles, rice porridge, fried rice, sticky rice, and even rice wine as I told you before. Fish sauce, on the other hand, is used in almost any kind of dish from salad dressings to soup broths. In fact, their national condiment is also made of fish sauce that is diluted with a splash of lime juice, sugar, garlic, and chilies.

As for regional differences in cuisines, food in Northern Vietnam tend to be less spicy because they prefer using black pepper instead of chilli. Dishes famous in the Northern region are Bun Cha, Pho, and Thang Rice Noodle. 

Southern Vietnamese cuisine is more flavourful and aromatic because of the liberal use of herbs and spices in cooking (yes I learned this all from Luke Nguyen). Popular dishes in the Southern region are Long Xuyen Raw Neem, My Tho Noodles, and Mam Hotpot. 

For food in Central Vietnam, mixtures of spicy flavors characterize the dishes. You will find Nem Lui, Khoai Cake, Banh Beo, and Hue Beef Vermicelli delicious. 

There is also French influence in Vietnamese cuisine which is particularly seen on Bah Mi, a sandwich in the form of a crusty French baguette. The filling of it depends on where you buy it, but shredded chicken with a fish sauce is common street food in Vietnam.

When you visit Vietnam don’t miss the opportunity to indulge yourself on street food. The street food scene is lively as ever and single-dish stalls serving a dish with a recipe passed down through the generations. The variety of dishes sold are numerous so there is something for everyone.

19. Vietnamese coffee is world class

After I did my barista course when living in Sydney I am very picky on coffee. But on your Vietnam trip you should try traditional coffee. Vietnamese coffee is often sweetened by condensed milk so if that is not your thing warn them up front. Their black coffee is strong, but very tasty. A good way to wake up and start your day full of adventures. Vietnam, after all, is the second largest coffee producer in the world.

20. Vietnam is for every budget

The affordable cost on major travel expenses such as accommodation, public transport, and the food is also a reason that makes traveling to Vietnam so appealing. Therefore, if you have a higher budget for your trip to Vietnam, you can easily have a fabulous luxury experience. Luxurious 5-star hotels are very affordable in this country. 

No matter what type of accommodation you choose to stay at, traveling to Vietnam allows you to stretch your budget farther and leaves more room for a more enjoyable tours.

Overall, with all the Vietnam travel tips, reasons to go, things to do and places to see I hope this blog was helpful for your upcoming trip to Vietnam. Let me know if you have any more questions about traveling to Vietnam and I am more than happy to help. Leave me a comment below.

Thanks for keeping up with Traveltomtom and if this blog has helped you, please consider helping me in return by sharing the link of this blog on social media or anywhere else on the internet. Every tweet, pin, or share on Facebook is very much appreciated.

Enjoy your trip to Vietnam!

12 Things To Do in Hanoi, Vietnam

Welcome to Hanoi, where the street is king! Experience delicious street food on every corner, watch trains squeeze behind narrow houses, and traffic merge into each other from every possible direction. The energy and vibrancy of this addictive Vietnamese city is not to be missed, so aim to spend 2-3 days exploring all the things to do in Hanoi.

Things to do in Hanoi

Although Hanoi is not the largest city in Vietnam , it has taken the title of the capital of the country. As a result, there are plenty of amazing things to do in Hanoi.

Read: Complete 3-week Vietnam Route Guide

1. Hanoi Motorbike Tour

Join a motorbike tour and hurtle through Hanoi’s Old Quarter back streets. Hanoi Backstreet Tours is a fantastic tour that uses vintage Minsk motorcycles for the journey. Enjoy the surroundings on the back of these motorcycles while you ride over famous bridges and stop at authentic markets.

The well-informed guides provide you with local knowledge and plenty of information about Hanoi and its history. The tour will also take you around the green region, which is a lovely contrast to the busy morning in the metropolis. The tour covers most of the city’s highlights and is easily one of the most fun things to do in Hanoi!

Here are all your hotel options in Hanoi.

2. Leave a Note at The Note Coffee

Coffee is a way of life in Hanoi and there are many excellent cafes to choose from. However, a special ‘note’ has to be made for The Note Coffee. This cute little cafe asks customers to leave a handwritten note, on colorful sticky paper, on the normally empty walls.

Hence the name ‘The Note Coffee’- a three-story building, with walls fully covered in colored notes. Read the notes from other visitors and make sure to leave one yourself!

Open from 6.30 AM – 10.30 PM every day and is located here .

3. Hanoi Old Quarter

No visit to Hanoi would be complete without seeing the Old Quarter! This is one of the city’s oldest areas, dating back 2000 years. Here you’ll see a perfect representation of the local life in Hanoi.

Expect to see old houses lining narrow alleys, locals transporting goods on the carrying pole, and traffic crossing from every possible road.

Tip: When crossing the road, make sure to walk slowly out into the street and directly across, so that traffic can move safely around you.

4. Train Street of Hanoi

Set in a narrow back street, squeezed between rows of shanty houses and cafes, there is a railway, where trains speed through twice a day. This world-famous train street is one of the most surprising things to do in Hanoi.

Discover Charming Hoi An

It’s possible to sit outside the cafes and feel the air pressure as the train passes centimeters away from your body. However, police do ensure that only those enter the street who buy something from the cafes. It’s recommended to ask about the train times at your hotel as it changes often.

Mon-Fri: 6.00 AM, 7.00 PM Sat-Sun: 6.00 AM, 9.00 AM, 11.20 AM, 3.20 PM, 5.30 PM, 6.00 PM, 7.00 PM, 7.45 PM, 8.30 PM, 9.00 PM, 11.00 PM

5. Drink Coffee!

Vietnam is, surprisingly, the world’s second-largest coffee producer. The coffee craze started due to French colonialism and has grown ever since. Because of this, you are never further than two steps away from amazing coffee shops, where Vietnamese locals gather around to enjoy the hot brew. 

Tip: Try the typical Vietnamese egg coffee, which is made with egg yolks, sugar, condensed milk, and robusta coffee. Sugary goodness!

Here are some of our favorite coffee shops to try in Hanoi:

• Loading T Cafe
• Hidden Gem coffee
• The Note Coffee

6. Eat at the Hanoi Night Market

If you’re visiting Hanoi over the weekend, make sure to visit the night market that takes place in the Old Quarter. Everything from ceramics to clothing is sold. Also, make sure to haggle for the best price, as this is an extremely common practice in Northern Vietnam. Finally, grab some amazing street food at one of the many stands. Open from 6.00 PM – 12.00 AM on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

More food? Join a Hanoi cooking class!

7. Luxury French Street (Phan Dinh Phung Street)

Phan Dinh Phung Street is undoubtedly one of the grandest avenues in the city. The wide road, with overhanging trees, has a very distinct feel from the rest of Hanoi and its small back streets. Take a walk down the avenue, admiring the impressive mansions and old French villas whilst the sunlight streams through the shadowing trees.

8. Long Bien Bridge

Long Bien is an incredible steel-structured bridge connecting the Hoan Kiem and Long Bien district. Sadly, the bridge was victim to many bombings over the years of the war. Consequently, it has fallen into disrepair and is under renovation.

Now only pedestrians, cycle bikes, mopeds, and trains use the bridge, and the majority of traffic uses other routes across. Because of this, it’s possible to admire the industrial beauty of the orange rusty posts set around the old train track. 

Don’t forget to: get your Visa for Vietnam

9. St Joseph’s Cathedral

The French Colonial government built St Joseph’s Cathedral with the aim of mimicking the style of Notre Dame in Paris . Hence why it differs hugely from the other buildings in the city. Noticeably, it is the oldest church in Hanoi! The gothic style is very impressive from the outside, but it is also worth taking a look inside, too, for the medieval European feel, especially as it’s free entry.

Tip: Hungry? Enjoy a coffee and a bite to eat at one of the cafes set in the square overlooking the church. La place cafe is a great choice with a balcony!

10. Hanoi Trompe L’Oeil Murals

The Trompe L’Oeil murals are a community art project painted on the railway arches of Phung Hung Street. The project began between South Korea and Vietnam in order to celebrate 25 years of diplomatic relations. ‘Trompe L’Oeil’ is a visual illusion within the artwork, and these murals are exactly that!

The artwork displays acts of local life in a way that the artwork blends in with the day-to-day goings of the city. The visual illusion, and 3D elements of the paintings, mean that people can interact with the art by taking photos and positioning themselves to make it look like they are part of it.

11. Hoan Kiem Lake

Make your way to Hoan Kiem Lake at dawn to watch the sunrise over the misty water. Sit amongst the trees while watching locals enjoying their morning tai chi or yoga. Beautiful!

As a result, Hoan Kiem Lake feels like a spiritual haven amongst the chaos of the city. Even better, it sits right in the center, so you are never far away! Don’t miss out on one of the most famous things to do in Hanoi.

Ngoc Son Temple

Ngoc Son Temple is a stunning Vietnamese pagoda that sits in the center of the lake. Named the ‘rising sun’ bridge, it’s painted in bold red and pictured on many postcards. Walk across the bridge and enter the pagoda between 8 AM – 6 PM.

Tickets cost: Adult ticket- 30,000/ Student-15,000 VND (0.75 – 1.5 USD). Children under 15 free.

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

On the edge of Hoan Kiem Lake is the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, where you can watch the ancient tradition of Vietnamese puppetry played out on a pool of water.

12. Day Trip to Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay, one of the natural wonders of the world and of UNESCO status, is an absolute must-see on any trip to Vietnam . It is unique because of its limestone karsts, rising up out of the ocean amongst beautiful bays and luscious greenery.

Everything you need to know about Ha Long Bay

Take a boat trip and watch locals fishing from floating villages, or kayak along the bay’s many white-sand beaches.  Ha Long Bay is located only a few hours to the east of Hanoi, by bus, and for that reason, it is the perfect spot for a day trip. Check with your hotel what options they offer, as most accommodations in Hanoi offer Ha Long Bay trips as part of their service.

Tip : Ha Long Bay has got busier in recent years. Lan Ha Bay is another excellent, and lesser-known option, situated close by.

How to Get to Hanoi

Hanoi is one of the easiest places to travel to in Vietnam because of its capital city status. Noi Bai International Airport serves the city with international flights from all over the world. From the airport to the Old Quarter is approximately a 1-hour journey by public bus/shuttle bus or taxi. This is due to the traffic in the city.

Domestic flights also leave Noi Bai for other destinations in Vietnam. Make sure to check which airport your domestic flight is leaving from, as there are other airports in Hanoi.

Hanoi is also well-served to other parts of the country by public buses and trains. You can even choose to take a public bus across the border to Laos or Cambodia if you are continuing your travels.

Browse your public transport tickets online

Getting Around

Once in Hanoi, it is relatively easy to get around. Use apps like ‘Grab’ to hire a taxi or bike to take you between destinations. It’s best to opt for a motorbike, over a taxi, because they will find it easier to avoid traffic jams. Choose a hotel or guesthouse in the Old Quarter or Hoan Kiem in order to be able to explore the main sights on foot.

Restaurants in Hanoi

Hanoi is world-famous for its mind-blowing street food! The choices are endless, and travelers will eat some of the best food of their lives here. Whether it’s a steaming bowl of hot pho or a banh mi sandwich, there is a street food favorite for everyone. These are some of our favorite places to eat in Hanoi:

• Hanoi Night Market
• The Hanoi Social Club
• Hoang’s Restaurant
• Tung’s Kitchen

Where to Stay in Hanoi

Vietnam is still reasonably cheap. As a result, the quality of guesthouses and hotels in Hanoi is extremely high for the money you’ll pay. Situate yourself in the Old Quarter or near Hoan Kiem Lake so that you can see all the things to do in Hanoi on foot.

Hotels in Hanoi 😴

There are also some lovely neighborhoods further out, like Tay Ho, which has great options. However, expect to have to take grab motorbike in order to reach the center.

Best Time to Visit Hanoi

Unlike other areas in Vietnam, Hanoi is very seasonal. This means winters can be very cold and summers very hot and humid. Because of this, it’s best to visit in the Spring (Feb-April) or the Autumn (October-November).

Tip: Avoid public holidays, such as TET, as most shops/restaurants will be closed, and services will be greatly reduced.

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Best Things To Do in Ninh Binh & Tam Coc (Vietnam)

Trekking in sapa: balancing on the borders of the ricefields, ha long bay: how to visit & things to do.

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

update: you can visit the train street, cafes are open :) but police is on the entrance so only people who buy something from the train street shops can get in

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Travel blog Vietnam: Follow the young Vietnamese generation to find out more about Vietnam through the unique experiences of them

• By lilystravel
• Blog , Chưa phân loại , Must Read , Travel Insight

Real name: Nguyen Thi Khanh Huyen

She is the first 9x Travel blogger and one of the pioneers inspiring young people to travel. With the story of traveling through many countries alone in the 2010s and Huyen Chip’s journey, many people admire it because, at that time, young Vietnamese people were still afraid of traveling to other countries. It was Huyen Chip who brought a new breeze to young people who were passionate about traveling, and many people also took other trips out into the world to explore and create unique stories.

Her slogan “Xach balo len va di” – “Pick up your bag and travel” was widely spread. Whenever someone or a group of friends wanted to travel somewhere, they provoked each other with this saying.

Huyen Chip has recently been less traveled and updated with information about trips or experiences. She has focused on studying at Stanford University in computer science. However, sometimes, Huyen Chip updates some articles on her blog.

Blog:  https://huyenchip.com/vn/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/chipiscrazy

Khoai Lang Thang

Real name: Dinh Vo Hoai Phuong

This guy is a travel blogger and food blogger. That’s what I call it because Khoai (Potato) always goes here and there and has video reviews of eating unique regional dishes that bring colors close. Possessing a handsome face with a sincere and cheerful voice, Khoai Lang Thang is loved and supported by many people.

Khoai Lang Thang owns a YouTube channel with 1.76 million subscribers. This guy is already a leading Kol (Key Opinion Leader) in tourism/ experience. Each travel video/ experience/food review posted receives millions of views – a dream number of many people and many media units. Sweet potatoes always bring true, close, and fun colors in their clips, plus the voice that enters the hearts of many people.

Youtube channel:  https://www.youtube.com/c/KhoaiLangThang/videos

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/KhoaiLangThang

Tran Dang Dang Khoa

This brother was a great backpacker, very playful when he decided to ride a motorbike from Saigon to Paris – a road with many challenges and dangers and the longest distance that no Vietnamese could do. Tran Dang Dang Khoa set out and completed this arduous journey for a long time and was followed by many people. He only runs on a regular motorbike – the Wave (Honda), but his journey is admirable. However, he did not want to stop after traveling halfway around the world. He went to other continents by motorbike and to America, Africa, and Australia. His total journey is estimated to be 1111 days worldwide, which means more than 3 years – extraordinary.

Follow him on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/trandangdangkhoa

Read more: 13 tips for visitors to Vietnam

Ly Thanh Co

As a travel blogger with a handsome face elegant and gentle style, this guy has also published the book “What can you buy with youth in your wallet?” with tourists’ perspectives. In addition, his European trips with many attractive destinations are shared on blogs and Facebook. The attraction is the pictures of beautiful trips and the color and thoughtfulness in each piece of content he posted on social media. He travels a lot on all continents, and every trip he makes is associated with feelings, emotions, and narratives that make each reading of his article like reading a short storybook.

Blog: https://lythanhco.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/venturology/

Nguyen Phuong

Phuong Mai is the author of “ The Islamic Way “. There are many exciting things that I have not known about Islam before, through my trip to Middle Eastern countries and countries with Muslim faith with many strict laws for people and tourists. And the views behind what we know through newspapers, the internet, behind the veils, the clothes that cover the whole body is a world of surprises and unbelievable. In addition, she also has a book “I am a Donkey,” that many people know about but I have not had the opportunity to read.

As an Assoc.Prof.Dr. and teaching at a university in the Netherlands, having worked as a journalist, the blogger’s perspective and point of view are very open, multidimensional and insightful, so many people love the things shared.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dr.nguyenphuongmai

Real name: Hoang Minh Tuan

With a handsome face, a deep voice creates a feeling of friendliness, closeness and elegance. Chan La Ca is a storyteller. His trips and stories, his practical experiences are recorded through movies, stories in the Northwest highlands that are of great interest to many people, many views and received from young people.

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKTVLFkzFGM824J2pgvaTQw

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hi.chanlaca

Read more: Travel Vietnam: List of the attractive tourist attractions by month (Part 2)

Quang Vinh was a singer, a familiar face with the 9x generation of Vietnam with many hit songs about 15 years ago. However, his singing and art activities could have been more active recently. He turned to travel as a travel blogger. Quang Vinh’s trips are equipped with professional, well-crafted footage and unique content in luxurious, high-end destinations and special experiences. Before the pandemic, he had trips abroad, but when the epidemic occurred, he changed direction with unique domestic destinations. Quang Vinh probably has a team to make movies, trips and monumental scenes, with methodical investment such as series in  Phu Quoc ,  Nha Trang …

Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/QuangVinhOfficial

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/quangvinhofficial

Read more: Bun Dau Mam Tom: The paste in the past and the present

Tran Viet Anh – Backpacking 24

Tran Viet Anh’s backpacking style that only some people have. This guy has cycled around Southeast Asia, traveled with little money, and examined and experienced a lot. Through the trips and articles of Viet Anh, we can see the enthusiasm and discovery of this young man in his blood.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloggertranvietanh

Blog: https://dulichbui24.com/

This girl is a travel blogger living and working in the Philippines who travels and shares on Nganbalo.com blog. Go and rewrite to share trips and experiences across different countries. Most of you looking for travel experiences and information in the Philippines will meet Ngan’s sharing articles because Ngan can be considered a locality in the Philippines when traveling to many places there and many details on destinations, culture, cuisine as well as a preliminary assessment for those who want to go to the Philippines. Of course, besides the Philippines, Ngan also goes to many places such as Australia, New Zealand, Taiwan, Japan, Korea, China, India, Mongolia, Sri Lanka,….

Ngan is less active on Facebook. Almost all of it is posted through the blog – the destinations she has visited are reviewed in detail with feelings and articles with instructions and valuable information. Once I traveled to India and asked Ngan to lend me a train ticket account, I was lucky to be supported and lent an account by Ngan to book tickets to many places. Recently, due to the pandemic, I have not seen the articles posted on the blog. Hope Ngan will soon have trips and share with everyone.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlogNganbalo

Blog: https://nganbalo.com/

Read more: Travel Vietnam: List of the attractive tourist attractions by month (Part 1)

Andy Nguyen – Toidi.net

Andy Nguyen is a longtime travel blogger in Vietnam. He has made many trips around Vietnam and many countries worldwide. He shares experiences and guides to prepare trips for those exploring new destinations abroad. His style is to experience and explore the lands through which to discover yourself and create meaning for life, enriching life. Andy and some partners are developing more foreign tourism, building a team to travel together to explore and experience.

You can follow Andy Nguyen at:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ToiDi.net

Blog: https://toidi.net/

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LILY'S TRAVEL

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• Address in Vietnam: 20 Ngo Huyen, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi city, Vietnam
• Address in Vietnam: 16A Ly Nam De st, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi city, Vietnam
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