• The North: The northern region has cool and misty winters, with cold nights in the highlands.
• The Central: March and April are great times to travel before the summer heat.
• The South: Southern Vietnam has a wet monsoon but the weather remains warm year-round.

1. Vietnam grants e-visas for citizens of all countries and territories with a 90-day stay duration and valid for multiple entry.
2. Citizens of 13 countries enjoying unilateral visa exemption can stay in Vietnam for up to 45 days.

Vietnam Visa Exemption: Vietnam’s updated visa policy, effective August 15, 2023, extends the stay duration for 13 countries enjoying unilateral visa exemption from 15 days to 45 days, regardless of passport type and entry purpose. The 13 countries include Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the UK, Russia, Japan, Republic of Korea, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland and Belarus.

• Languages: English, French, Japanese, and Chinese are among the commonly spoken second languages in Vietnam.

• Local SIM card: One of the most convenient places to buy a SIM card in Vietnam is the airport. As soon as you exit the baggage claim area in any of Vietnam’s international airports, you’ll find multiple stalls selling SIM cards. The country has four main network operators—Viettel, Vinaphone, Mobifone, and Vietnamobile—offering prepaid SIM cards.

• Electrical standards: Vietnam features outlets that accept three different plug shapes. Ensure you bring all required chargers for your electronic devices. Pre-charged battery packs are highly useful for extended bus and train journeys. Most hostels and hotels offer outlets compatible with multiple plug shapes, yet the voltage remains 220V. Consider carrying a shape converter if your plug doesn’t fit into some outlets.

There aren’t specific regulations for tipping in Vietnam, and it’s not obligatory. However, drivers and guides usually expect tips. Higher-end restaurants may include “service charges” in the bill, but this may not always go to the wait staff. Leaving a small additional amount in coins or bills for the waiter is appreciated.

These suggested guidelines can help in deciding on the tip amount; however, you can adjust based on the service quality:

• Guides: $5 per day per person in your group
• Drivers: $2 per day per person in your group
• Restaurants: About 10 percent of the bill

Domestic transportation options: Plane/ Train / Car

Public transportation systems: Taxi/ Buses

Name of international airport in Vietnam

• Hanoi: Noi Bai Airport – HAN
• Da Nang: Da Nang Airport – DAD
• Ho Chi Minh City: Tan Son Nhat Airport – SGN
• Phu Quoc: Phu Quoc Airport – PQC

Before you go

• Obtain trip insurance before traveling to Vietnam.
• Consult your doctor or a travel clinic two months prior to departure for health information and vaccinations.
• Pregnant women should seek specialized advice due to potential medication risks.
• Carry a doctor’s letter detailing specific medical conditions or allergies.
• Pack a medical kit for emergency needs:
• • DEET-based insect repellent
  • Paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain relief
  • Anti-itch ointment, such as hydrocortison
  • Sunscreen
  • Antihistamine for allergy treatment, such as zertec, benadryl
  • Bacitracin for wound care, such as neosporin
  • Diarrhea treatment, such as imodium         
Public Hospitals:
• • Viet Duc Hospital – Hanoi
  • Bach Mai Hospital – Hanoi
  • Cho Ray Hospital – Ho Chi Minh City
  • Hue Central Hospital – Hue
  • Da Nang General Hospital – Da Nang
Private Hospitals:
• • FV Hospital – Ho Chi Minh City
  • Vinmec International Hospital – Hanoi
  • Hoan My Hospital – Da Nang
  • Hanoi French Hospital – Hanoi
  • City International Hospital – Ho Chi Minh City