Vietnam
Important Information
Visa exemption / Short tourist stays
Visa: Depends on nationality; some countries get visa exemptions or e-visa online.
Vaccinations: Recommended: Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Tetanus, Japanese Encephalitis in rural areas.
Health: Drink bottled water; street food is delicious but choose busy, popular spots.
Transportation:
Domestic flights are cheap and efficient.
Trains are scenic but slower.
Motorbikes are common, but traffic can be chaotic; consider taxis or ride-hailing apps (Grab).
Safety: Generally safe; watch for petty theft in crowded areas.
Important things to watch
Visa: Check if you need a visa. Australians can obtain a visa on arrival (with pre-approval) or an e-visa for up to 30 days.
Travel insurance: Essential for medical emergencies and theft.
Vaccinations: Recommended: Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Tetanus; Japanese Encephalitis if visiting rural areas; routine vaccines up to date.
Register travel: Australians can register with DFAT Smartraveller for updates and assistance.
Summary — what you should do before you go
Passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival in Vietnam.
At least one blank page in your passport (for entry/exit stamps).
Proof of onward travel or return flight.
Health & Safety
Drink bottled water; avoid ice unless confirmed safe.
Street food is generally safe if it’s freshly cooked and popular.
Beware of mosquitoes; dengue, malaria, and Zika can be present in rural areas.
Carry a basic first-aid kit and any personal medications.
Vaccinations: Recommended:
Hepatitis A & B
Typhoid
Tetanus
Japanese Encephalitis (if visiting rural or river delta areas)
Routine vaccines up to date
Medications: Bring prescription medications in original packaging with doctor’s note.
Pack a small first-aid kit, insect repellent, and sunscreen.
Transport & Roads
Traffic: Motorbikes dominate; traffic can be chaotic. Pedestrians always need to be cautious.
Taxis & Ride-hailing: Use reputable taxis (Mai Linh, Vinasun) or Grab.
Driving: Foreigners can’t drive motorcycles legally without a Vietnamese license; car rental requires an International Driving Permit.
Public transport: Buses and trains are available; domestic flights are affordable and efficient.
Money & Payments
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND).
ATMs: Widely available; Visa & Mastercard accepted.
Credit cards: Accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and tourist areas; carry cash for markets or rural areas.
Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated (5–10%).
Weather & Clothing
North: October–December or March–April (cool, dry)
Central: February–August (avoid typhoon season)
South: December–April (dry season)
Travel & Safety Tips
Avoid isolated areas at night.
Watch out for petty theft in crowded markets and tourist sites.
Use hotel safes for passports and valuables.
Don’t display large amounts of cash or flashy jewelry.
Drugs & Medication
Illegal drugs: Strictly prohibited; penalties are severe, including long prison sentences or death for trafficking.
Prescription meds: Carry original packaging and a doctor’s prescription. Some common medications are restricted (e.g., strong painkillers).
Alcohol Laws
Legal drinking age: 18.
Alcohol is widely available; public intoxication is frowned upon.
Dress & Respecting Local Customs
Dress modestly at religious sites: cover shoulders, chest, and knees.
Remove shoes when entering homes, temples, or pagodas.
Avoid public displays of affection, especially in rural areas.
Carrying Identification & Other Rules
Always carry a copy of your passport; hotels may request the original.
Keep a digital copy of your passport and visa.
Some areas may require ID checks; comply politely.
Respecting Religion, Social Protocol & Royalty
Vietnam is predominantly Buddhist; respect temples and pagodas.
Don’t point your feet at people or religious objects.
Avoid touching heads of children (considered disrespectful).
Public behavior should be polite and non-confrontational.
Cultural Etiquette
Religion: Predominantly Buddhist, but also folk religions, Catholicism.
Customs:
Remove shoes before entering homes or temples.
Avoid pointing feet at people or religious objects.
Dress modestly at religious sites.
Use both hands when giving/receiving items to show respect.
Tipping: Not mandatory, but appreciated in restaurants and for guides.
Things Especially Important for Australians Travelling
Smartraveller: Register your trip for safety updates.
Emergency contact: Australian Embassy in Hanoi: +84 24 3850 5000
Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
Carry multiple payment methods; cash may be needed in smaller towns.
Legal & Miscellaneous
Photography: Ask permission before photographing people, military sites, or government buildings.
Littering: Fines may apply; Vietnam promotes environmental cleanliness in tourist areas.
Scams: Beware of overpriced taxi rides, “friendly” guides, or unofficial tour operators.
Prohibited items: Firearms, explosives, certain drones, and pornography.
Register your trip with DFAT Smartraveller.
Make digital and paper copies of passport, visa, insurance, and important contacts.
Learn local emergency numbers:
Police: 113
Fire: 114
Ambulance: 115
Regions
Vietnam is a long, narrow Southeast Asian country stretching from the mountainous north to the tropical south, offering a rich mix of culture, history, and natural beauty. The country features bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, ancient imperial sites in Hue, charming UNESCO towns like Hoi An, stunning natural landscapes including Halong Bay and the Mekong Delta, and pristine beaches along its central and southern coasts. Vietnam’s vibrant street food, diverse regional cuisines, and welcoming local culture make it a dynamic and immersive destination for travelers, combining historic heritage, natural wonders, and modern urban life.
Hanoi (North)
Vibe: Historic, bustling, with French colonial charm and traditional Vietnamese culture.
Activities & Attractions:
Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple
Old Quarter walking tours (markets, shops, street food)
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and One Pillar Pagoda
Water puppet shows
Food & Dining:
Pho (noodle soup), Bun Cha (grilled pork with noodles), Banh Cuon (rice rolls)
Egg coffee in historic cafes
Street food is a must in the Old Quarter
Extra tip: Traffic is heavy; walking is safest in the Old Quarter.
Halong Bay
Vibe: Natural, scenic, peaceful, and ideal for relaxation or adventure on water.
Activities & Attractions:
Overnight boat cruises among limestone karsts and islands
Kayaking, swimming, and cave exploration
Fishing village visits
Food & Dining:
Fresh seafood on cruises: crab, shrimp, squid
Some floating restaurants serve local specialties
Extra tip: Best visited in spring or autumn to avoid fog or storms.
Hue
Vibe: Historic, cultural, and serene with a focus on Vietnam’s imperial past.
Activities & Attractions:
Imperial Citadel and Forbidden Purple City
Royal tombs along the Perfume River
Thien Mu Pagoda
Dragon Boat rides on the Perfume River
Food & Dining:
Bun Bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup)
Com Hen (clam rice)
Royal cuisine-inspired restaurants
Extra tip: Wear modest clothing when visiting historical or religious sites.
Da Nang & Hoi An (Central)
Overview/Vibe: Long stretches of soft sand, modern city nearby, popular with both locals and tourists. Relaxed yet lively.
Activities:
Swimming, sunbathing, surfing, jet-skiing
Beachfront bars and cafes
Food & Dining:
Fresh seafood (grilled squid, prawns, clams)
Vietnamese-style beach snacks: banh xeo (savory pancakes), banh mi
Other attractions nearby: Marble Mountains, Dragon Bridge, Ba Na Hills
Ho Chi Minh City (South)
Vibe: Bustling, dynamic, cosmopolitan, with a mix of history and modern nightlife.
Activities & Attractions:
Cu Chi Tunnels
War Remnants Museum
Ben Thanh Market for shopping
Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office
Rooftop bars and night markets
Food & Dining:
Pho (noodle soup), Bun Thit Nuong (grilled pork noodles), Banh Mi
Street food abundant in District 1 and 3
Cafes offering strong Vietnamese coffee
Extra tip: Traffic is hectic; walking or Grab (ride-hailing) is easiest.
Mekong Delta
Vibe: Lush, rural, and tranquil with rivers, canals, and floating markets.
Activities & Attractions:
Cai Rang Floating Market (Can Tho)
River cruises and houseboat tours
Coconut candy workshops, fruit orchards
Bicycle tours through villages
Food & Dining:
Fresh river fish, shrimp, and tropical fruits
Local specialties: Hu Tieu (noodle soup), Elephant Ear Fish
Extra tip: Best explored with a local guide; small villages can be tricky to navigate alone.
Recommended Things To Do
Families
Beaches & Water Fun
Safe swimming at coastal beaches and island resorts.
Sandcastle building and beach games.
Calm water activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and short boat trips.
Snorkeling in shallow areas suitable for beginners.
Popular options: Da Nang beaches, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, Hoi An’s An Bang Beach, and Mui Ne.
Animal & Nature Experiences
Visiting wildlife parks, zoos, and safari parks.
Exploring national parks with family-friendly trails.
River and canal tours to see floating markets, rice paddies, and local wildlife.
Experiencing tropical fruit farms and farm visits for interactive learning.
Highlights: Mekong Delta river trips, Con Dao or Phu Quoc islands, and Cat Tien National Park.
Theme Parks & Interactive Attractions
Amusement parks with rides suitable for all ages.
Water parks and splash zones for kids.
Cultural theme attractions with hands-on experiences.
Notable examples: Vinpearl Amusement Parks, Suoi Tien Theme Park (Ho Chi Minh City), and Ba Na Hills (Da Nang) with the Golden Bridge.
Adventure & Outdoor Fun
Trekking and hiking on family-friendly trails.
Cycling tours through villages, rice fields, and scenic paths.
Exploring caves and limestone karsts (some with guided tours for children).
Zip-lining, rope courses, or gentle mountain adventures in selected parks.
Popular spots: Sapa terraces, Phong Nha-Ke Bang caves, and Ba Na Hills.
Cultural & Educational Activities
Water puppet shows in Hanoi and other cities.
Traditional craft workshops: lantern-making, pottery, and cooking classes.
Visiting historical sites like ancient citadels, temples, and imperial tombs.
Museums with hands-on exhibits about Vietnam’s culture, history, and ethnic diversity.
Examples: Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (Hanoi), Imperial Citadel (Hue), Cu Chi Tunnels (Ho Chi Minh City, kid-friendly sections).
Family Dining & Markets
Sampling street food with kid-friendly options like noodles, pancakes, and tropical fruits.
Visiting floating markets and bustling local markets for interactive experiences.
Beachfront cafes and casual restaurants offering fresh seafood and familiar dishes.
Highlights: Ben Thanh Market (Ho Chi Minh City), Old Quarter markets (Hanoi), and Mekong Delta markets.
Relaxation & Easy Family Days
Strolling along riverside promenades and city parks.
Visiting scenic lakes and public gardens for picnics and light play.
Gentle boat cruises or sunset river trips.
Quiet beaches for a low-key family day.
Examples: Hoan Kiem Lake (Hanoi), Perfume River boat rides (Hue), and quiet beaches near Hoi An or Phu Quoc
Inclusive & Accessible
Accessible Beach & Ocean Experiences
Accessible beaches: Many resort areas offer wheelchair-friendly access and paved paths. Popular accessible beaches include:
Da Nang (My Khe Beach) – wide boardwalks and resorts with ramps.
Nha Trang – some resorts provide beach wheelchairs.
Phu Quoc – family-friendly resorts with pool and beach access ramps.
Activities: Swimming with assistance, guided boat trips, and calm water activities like paddleboarding with supervision.
Tips: Confirm with resorts for beach wheelchairs or ramps; some tour operators provide accessible boats.
Cultural & City Attractions (Accessible)
Hanoi: Hoan Kiem Lake promenade, water puppet theaters, and the Old Quarter (main streets partially accessible).
Hue: Imperial Citadel (some ramps and pathways for easier access).
Hoi An: Ancient town streets may have uneven surfaces, but several museums, lantern shops, and riverside cafes offer step-free access.
Ho Chi Minh City: Museums and attractions like the War Remnants Museum and Notre-Dame Cathedral have accessible entrances.
Tips: Many cultural sites now have elevators or ramps; plan visits in advance and request assistance if needed.
Nature & Animal Encounters
National parks:
Cat Tien National Park – some trails are accessible for wheelchair users.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang – guided cave tours for limited mobility visitors.
Animal experiences: Zoos and safari parks with paved paths, e.g., Vinpearl Safari (Phu Quoc) and Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens.
Mekong Delta: Accessible boat tours available with advance booking.
Leisure & Entertainment
Theme parks:
Vinpearl Amusement Parks and Ba Na Hills offer elevators, ramps, and accessible rides.
Suoi Tien Theme Park in Ho Chi Minh City has accessible entrances and some rides suitable for families with limited mobility.
City leisure: Riverside promenades, pedestrian areas, and shopping centers often have ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
Dining & Relaxed Experiences
Many restaurants and cafes provide step-free access and wide pathways.
Beachfront restaurants and resort dining often include accessible tables.
Markets: Some larger indoor markets like Ben Thanh (Ho Chi Minh City) are partially accessible, though outdoor street markets may be more challenging.
Tips: Call ahead to confirm accessibility for larger groups or mobility aids.
Accessible Transportation Options
Airport transfers: Major airports (Hanoi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc) have wheelchair-friendly facilities and assistance services.
Taxis and ride-hailing: Some companies (like Grab) offer vehicles that can accommodate wheelchairs with notice.
Domestic travel: Trains and flights may provide wheelchair assistance; booking in advance is recommended.
City transport: Pedestrian crossings and sidewalks vary; central areas in large cities are increasingly adapted.
Wellness & Relaxation
Resorts and spas: Many provide step-free access, spa treatments for guests with mobility needs, and pool lifts.
Yoga and meditation: Studios in Hoi An, Da Nang, and Hanoi offer classes suitable for different abilities.
Quiet nature spots: Accessible gardens, promenades, and beaches provide peaceful relaxation areas.
Wellness cruises: Halong Bay and Mekong Delta cruises sometimes offer accessible cabins and on-deck seating.
For the Adults
Beach & Island Escapes
Phu Quoc Island: Tropical beaches, boutique adults-only resorts, spa retreats, and sunset cruises. Great for romantic getaways.
Mui Ne: Relaxed coastal town known for its sand dunes, kitesurfing, and quiet resorts—perfect for couples or groups.
Da Nang & Hoi An: Long sandy beaches (My Khe, An Bang) with upscale resorts, beach clubs, and oceanfront dining.
Nha Trang: Lively resort city with luxury beachfront hotels, private island resorts, and water activities like diving and sailing.
Con Dao Islands: Peaceful, secluded, and ideal for honeymooners or travelers seeking privacy and natural beauty.
Adventure & Outdoor Activities
Trekking & Hiking: Sapa’s terraced rice fields and ethnic villages; guided multi-day treks available for active travelers.
Caving & Exploration: Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park offers guided caving tours ranging from beginner to extreme adventure.
Water Sports: Kitesurfing in Mui Ne, diving in Nha Trang and Phu Quoc, kayaking in Halong Bay.
Cycling Tours: Scenic routes through rice paddies and coastal roads, ideal for couples or groups.
Motorbike Adventures: Explore mountain passes like Hai Van Pass between Hue and Da Nang—popular with experienced riders.
Culture & Sightseeing
Hanoi: Historic sites, art galleries, and the Old Quarter’s charm.
Hue: Ancient imperial citadel, royal tombs, and river cruises.
Hoi An: Lantern-lit streets, traditional architecture, and tailor-made shopping.
Ho Chi Minh City: French colonial landmarks, war museums, and vibrant street life.
Halong Bay: Romantic overnight cruises with dining, kayaking, and cave visits.
Local festivals: Lantern Festival in Hoi An, Hue Festival, and traditional temple celebrations.
Nightlife & Entertainment
Ho Chi Minh City: Rooftop bars, live music lounges, nightclubs, and late-night dining.
Hanoi: Craft beer bars, jazz clubs, and hidden speakeasies in the Old Quarter.
Da Nang & Nha Trang: Beach clubs, cocktail bars, and open-air lounges with ocean views.
Hoi An: Riverside bars and lantern-lit pubs with relaxed evening vibes.
Phu Quoc: Sunset beach bars and resort-based nightlife with live DJs.
Food & Culinary Experiences
Street Food Tours: Guided tours through local markets and street stalls in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Cooking Classes: Learn to prepare Vietnamese dishes like pho, spring rolls, or banh xeo.
Fine Dining: Upscale Vietnamese and fusion restaurants in major cities and resorts.
Seafood Feasts: Fresh catches at coastal restaurants and night seafood markets.
Coffee Culture: Explore traditional coffee houses and try unique brews like egg coffee or coconut coffee.
Relaxation & Wellness
Luxury Spas: Found in high-end resorts in Da Nang, Phu Quoc, and Nha Trang, offering massages, facials, and wellness treatments.
Yoga & Meditation: Wellness retreats in Hoi An, Hue, and mountain areas for rejuvenation.
Hot Springs & Mud Baths: Nha Trang and Hue offer relaxing spa experiences in natural mineral waters.
Private Villas & Resorts: Adults-only resorts cater to quiet escapes with private pools and ocean views.
Cruises: Halong Bay and Mekong River cruises with spas, fine dining, and private cabins designed for adults
Romantic & Scenic Activities
Sunset cruises: Sail around Halong Bay or Phu Quoc with dinner and champagne on deck.
Private beach picnics: Arrange a secluded meal on the sand through your resort or local tour operators.
Couples’ spa treatments: Beach resorts in Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Con Dao offer serene spa suites for two.
Night walks on the beach: Hoi An’s An Bang and Phu Quoc’s Long Beach glow under lantern light and moonlit skies.
Pro Tip
Time your visit: Visit between February and April or October and December for mild weather and clear skies.
Book boutique or adults-only stays: Vietnam has many small luxury resorts perfect for couples.
Reserve sunset experiences early: Dinner cruises and premium seats at scenic spots sell out fast.
Hire private guides: Personalized tours let you explore at your own pace and avoid crowds.
Capture the moments: Hire a local photographer for a couple’s shoot in Hoi An or Halong Bay.
Pack for the setting: Bring light, elegant clothing for photos and dinners, and layers for mountain regions.
Plan downtime: Balance sightseeing with slow mornings by the beach or in a spa.
Learn a few local phrases: Simple Vietnamese words like “Cam on” (thank you) and “Dep qua” (beautiful) add charm to your interactions.
Sunsets and views: Don’t miss rooftop spots or hilltop cafes in Da Nang, Hoi An, or Saigon for magical sunsets.
Stay flexible: The most romantic moments often happen unplanned — strolling through markets, sharing street food, or watching lanterns float by
Food & Shopping
Local Dishes to Try
Vietnam’s cuisine is diverse, flavorful, and regional — every area has specialties worth sampling:
Pho: Iconic noodle soup with beef or chicken (best in Hanoi).
Banh Mi: Crispy baguette sandwich with meats, pickles, and herbs (best in Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City).
Goi Cuon: Fresh spring rolls with shrimp, herbs, and peanut dipping sauce.
Bun Cha: Grilled pork with noodles and herbs (Hanoi specialty).
Cao Lau: Noodle dish unique to Hoi An, made with local well water and greens.
Com Tam: Broken rice with grilled pork and egg (southern favorite).
Mi Quang: Turmeric noodles with shrimp, pork, and peanuts (central Vietnam).
Seafood: Freshly grilled fish, prawns, and squid along the coast.
Che: Sweet dessert drinks with beans, jelly, and coconut milk.
Where to Eat
Street Food Stalls: The heart of Vietnam’s food culture — safe, delicious, and affordable.
Hanoi’s Old Quarter & Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1 are street food hubs.
Casual Local Eateries: Family-run restaurants known as quán ăn serve home-style dishes.
Riverside & Beachfront Dining: Perfect for romantic evenings in Hoi An, Da Nang, or Phu Quoc.
Upscale Restaurants: Fine dining and fusion restaurants in major cities (try The Deck Saigon or Home Hanoi).
Cooking Classes: Learn and eat what you make — available in Hoi An, Hanoi, and Hue.
Street Markets & Local Finds
Ben Thanh Market (Ho Chi Minh City): Souvenirs, handicrafts, and food stalls under one roof.
Dong Xuan Market (Hanoi): Textiles, clothes, and local snacks.
Hoi An Night Market: Lanterns, art, jewelry, and street food by the river.
Nha Trang Night Market: Local crafts and beachwear.
Mekong Floating Markets (Cai Rang, Phong Dien): Unique experience of shopping from boats for fruit and local foods.
Hue Market (Dong Ba): Traditional conical hats, spices, and tea.
Shopping Malls & Boutiques
Vincom Centers: Modern shopping malls found in most cities with international and local brands.
Takashimaya (Ho Chi Minh City): Luxury shopping and gourmet dining under one roof.
Aeon Mall (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City): Family-friendly with restaurants, cinemas, and retail outlets.
Boutique Finds: Look for Vietnamese designers and handicraft stores in Hanoi, Hoi An, and Saigon.
Specialty & Cultural Shops
Silk & Tailoring: Hoi An is famous for custom-made clothing, suits, and dresses (ready in 24–48 hours).
Lacquerware & Ceramics: Hanoi and Bat Trang Village (ceramics) or Saigon’s art galleries.
Coffee & Tea: Buy local coffee beans (especially Weasel coffee or Arabica from Da Lat).
Spices & Dried Goods: Traditional markets offer star anise, cinnamon, and dried fruits.
Handicrafts: Ethnic textiles, bamboo crafts, and paper lanterns are meaningful souvenirs.
Combine Shopping + Dining
Night Markets: Most night markets across Vietnam combine street eats, crafts, and live music.
Walking Streets: Nguyen Hue (Saigon) and Hoan Kiem (Hanoi) offer food trucks, cafes, and local stalls in lively atmospheres.
Mall Food Courts: Modern malls feature Vietnamese street food stalls in air-conditioned comfort.
Art Cafes & Concept Stores: Many boutiques combine art, souvenirs, and café experiences.
Tips for Travelers
Cash is King: Many markets and small restaurants accept cash only — carry small notes in Vietnamese dong.
Hygiene Check: Choose busy street food stalls with high turnover and visible cooking areas.
Bargain Politely: Haggling is expected in markets, but do it with a smile.
Bring a Reusable Bag: Handy for market shopping and eco-friendly.
Stay Hydrated: Try fresh coconut water or sugarcane juice while shopping.
Watch for Quality: Check for authenticity in silk, pearls, and coffee.
Tipping: Not mandatory, but appreciated in restaurants or for good service.
Timing: Markets are liveliest in the evening; early morning visits to floating markets offer the best experience.
Tax Refunds: Some high-end stores offer VAT refunds for tourists—ask before purchase.
Local Etiquette: Always smile and greet vendors politely with “Xin chào” (hello).
