How to Plan Your First Trip to Vietnam Expert Tips and Advice

September 22, 2023

Are you planning your first trip to Vietnam but don’t know where to start? Vietnam is a beautiful country with a rich culture, history, and cuisine. However, planning a trip to a foreign country can be overwhelming, especially if you’ve never been there before. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to plan your first trip to Vietnam, from when to go to what to see and do. Let’s get started!

Kayack in Halong Bay, Vietnam

When to Go: Best Time to Visit Vietnam

The best time to visit Vietnam depends on your preferences and what you want to see and do. Vietnam has a diverse climate, so the weather varies depending on the region you’re visiting.

Northern Vietnam: The best time to visit Northern Vietnam is from September to November when the weather is cool and dry. December to February is also a good time to visit, but it can be quite cold.
Central Vietnam: The best time to visit Central Vietnam is from January to August when the weather is warm and dry. September to December can bring heavy rains and typhoons.
Southern Vietnam: The best time to visit Southern Vietnam is from December to April when the weather is dry and sunny. May to November is the rainy season, but it doesn’t rain all day, and the rain usually lasts for a short period.

What to See and Do: Must-Visit Places in Vietnam

Vietnam has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or food, there are plenty of things to see and do in Vietnam.

Hanoi: Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam and a great place to start your trip. It’s a vibrant city with a rich history, delicious street food, and beautiful architecture.
Halong Bay: Halong Bay is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and known for its stunning limestone cliffs, emerald waters, and traditional junk boats.
Hoi An: Hoi An is a charming town in Central Vietnam known for its well-preserved ancient town, lanterns, and delicious local food.
Ho Chi Minh City: Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam and a bustling commercial hub. It’s home to some of the country’s most famous landmarks, including Notre Dame Cathedral and the War Remnants Museum.
Mekong Delta: The Mekong Delta is a vast network of rivers and canals in Southern Vietnam. It’s known for its floating markets, fruit orchards, and rural villages.

A famous tourist destination is Ben Tre village in Mekong delta , Vietnam. Mekong Delta is home of people who live along the many channels.

How to Plan Your Itinerary: Tips and Advice

Planning your itinerary is one of the most important aspects of your trip. Here are some tips to help you plan your itinerary:

Research and prioritize: Do your research and make a list of the places you want to visit. Prioritize the places you’re most interested in and consider how long you’ll need to spend at each place.

Consider travel time: Vietnam is a big country, so traveling from one place to another can take time. Factor in travel time when planning your itinerary and try to group places that are close together.

Leave room for spontaneity: Don’t pack your itinerary too tightly. Leave some room for spontaneity and unexpected discoveries.

Be realistic: It’s better to see fewer places and enjoy them than to rush through many places and not enjoy any of them.

Book in advance: If you’re traveling during peak season, it’s a good idea to book your accommodations and transportation in advance to avoid disappointment.

Pros and Cons of Traveling to Vietnam

Like any destination, Vietnam has its pros and cons. Here are some to consider:

Pros

Affordable: Vietnam is a relatively affordable travel destination, with low costs for food, accommodations, and transportation.
Rich culture: Vietnam has a rich culture that’s reflected in its food, architecture, and traditions.
Beautiful landscapes: From Halong Bay to the Mekong Delta, Vietnam has some of the most beautiful landscapes in Southeast Asia.

Cons

Language barrier: English isn’t widely spoken in Vietnam, so communication can be challenging.
Crowds: Some popular tourist destinations in Vietnam, such as Halong Bay and Hoi An, can get crowded during peak season.
Traffic: Traffic in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City can be chaotic and overwhelming.

Cat Cat Village, Muong Hoa Valley, Sapa

Alternatives to Popular Tourist Destinations

If you want to avoid the crowds at popular tourist destinations, here are some alternatives to consider:

Sapa instead of Halong Bay: Sapa is a mountainous region in Northern Vietnam known for its rice terraces, ethnic minority villages, and trekking opportunities.
Hue instead of Hoi An: Hue is a city in Central Vietnam known for its imperial citadel, tom bs, and beautiful pagodas.
Phu Quoc instead of Nha Trang: Phu Quoc is an island in Southern Vietnam known for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and snorkeling opportunities.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Plan Your First Trip to Vietnam

Determine your travel dates: Decide when you want to go to Vietnam and how long you’ll stay. Consider the weather and tourist seasons when planning your trip. Vietnam has a tropical climate, so it is important to pack appropriate clothing for the season you’re visiting.

Decide on your destinations: Vietnam offers a wide range of places to visit, including bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, beautiful natural landscapes in Halong Bay or Sapa, and historical sites such as Hoi An or Hue. Plan your itinerary based on your interests and the time you have.

Getting a visa Vietnam: Check the visa requirements for your home country and apply for a visa if necessary. Vietnam offers both e-visas and visa-on-arrival options, but it’s important to check the visa requirements before you book your trip.

Book your flights: Once you know your travel dates and visa requirements, book your flights to Vietnam. Look for the best deals and consider flying into and out of different airports to save money.

Plan your itinerary: Research the places you want to visit and plan your itinerary accordingly. Vietnam offers a wide range of places to visit, including bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, beautiful natural landscapes in Halong Bay or Sapa, and historical sites such as Hoi An or Hue. Plan your itinerary based on your interests and the time you have.

Book accommodation in advance: Vietnam has a diverse range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. It’s advisable to book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Pack essentials: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for the weather, comfortable shoes for walking, and insect repellent. You may also want to bring a universal power adapter for charging your electronic devices.

Learn basic Vietnamese phrases: While English isn’t widely spoken in Vietnam, learning some basic Vietnamese phrases can help you communicate with locals and enhance your travel experience.

Get travel insurance: Purchase travel insurance to protect yourself in case of illness, injury, or other emergencies.

Exchange money: The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese dong. Exchange money at banks or authorized exchange offices to get the best rates.

Enjoy your trip: Relax, have fun, and enjoy your first trip to Vietnam! Remember to stay open-minded, be respectful of local customs, and embrace the unique experiences Vietnam has to offer.

Top Tips for Planning Your First Trip to Vietnam

Be flexible and open-minded.
Don’t overpack, as you can buy anything you need in Vietnam.
Try the local food, but be cautious of street food if you have a sensitive stomach.
Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
Bargain with vendors at markets and shops, but do so respectfully.
Respect the environment and don’t litter.
Connect with locals and learn about their culture.

Conclusion

Planning your first trip to Vietnam can be overwhelming, but with these tips and advice, you’ll be well-prepared to explore this beautiful country. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or food, Vietnam has something to offer for everyone. So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Vietnam!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What’s the best way to get around Vietnam?
A: The best way to get around Vietnam is by motorbike, which gives you the freedom to explore the country at your own pace. However, if you’re not comfortable riding a motorbike, you can also travel by train, bus, or plane.

Q: Is Vietnam safe for solo travelers?
A: Yes, Vietnam is generally safe for solo travelers. However, like any destination, it’s important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Q: What’s the currency in Vietnam?
A: The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese dong.

Q: Do I need a visa to enter Vietnam?
A: It depends on your nationality. Some countries are exempt from visas, while others require a visa to enter Vietnam. Check the visa requirements before you book your trip.

Q: What’s the best time of year to visit Vietnam?
A: The best time to visit Vietnam depends on the region you’re visiting. September to November is a good time to visit Northern Vietnam, while December to April is a good time to visit Southern Vietnam.