Hi! This Fiona from Custom Asia Travel - today, we're excited to share some useful travel tips with you that can help you have a good preparation for your upcoming trip to Vietnam. Please stay tuned until the end of the video as we have a free offer for you!

As one of the most beautiful Southeast Asian countries, Vietnam attracts a lot of foreign travelers. However, many visitors aren't fully prepared to explore and experience everything this country has to offer.

To make the most of your trip, it's important to be well-prepared based on your destination, length, and purpose of stay. We're excited to share 8 top things that you need to know before visiting Vietnam, including travel requirements like visas, insurance, currency regulations, places to visit and climate. By knowing these things, you can avoid unnecessary difficulties and fully enjoy your trip.

LET'S START WITH NUMBER 1: VISA

If you're planning to visit Vietnam as a tourist, you'll need a visa. While some nationalities are exempt, most tourists need to obtain one before entering the country.

There are three types of tourist visas:

• Visa on Arrival

• E-visa

• Visa from the Embassy.

The Visa on Arrival is popular for longer stays and allows multiple entries for up to 3 months.

The E-visa is obtained online, valid for a single entry of up to 30 days, and can be used at land border entry points and seaports.

Lastly, the Embassy visa is the standard way of applying.

Your passport is essential for obtaining a visa. Make sure it's valid for at least 6 months with 3 blank pages. This applies to babies as well. For stays up to 3 months or multiple entries, we highly recommend the Visa on Arrival.

2 - TRAVEL INSURANCE

While traveling overseas, medical expenses can be very costly, and upfront payment may be required. Therefore, it's important to obtain comprehensive travel insurance before your trip to Vietnam. Many insurance companies provide coverage for unforeseen circumstances, such as flight delays, trip cancellations, lost or damaged baggage, accidents, hospitalization, and more. It's important to carefully review the insurance policies to ensure that they meet your specific needs.

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3 - MONEY AND CURRENCIES

In Vietnam, the official currency is the Vietnam Dong. It's recommended to exchange money only at official exchange counters that clearly display their status to avoid the loss of money, despite a potentially better exchange rate elsewhere.

Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying cash as a backup is advisable, especially in rural areas. Traveler's checks are not commonly accepted in Vietnam nowadays.

ATMs are widely available in major cities and tourist areas, and international money transfer companies like Western Union and MoneyGram can transfer funds to Vietnam.

To avoid carrying too much cash, the State Bank of Vietnam permits foreigners to bring in or take out up to 15 million Vietnamese Dong or USD 5000, or an equivalent amount in other foreign currencies.

4 - THE BEST TIME TO VISIT VIETNAM

Vietnam is a diverse country with varying weather patterns across its different regions. The best time to visit will depend on where you plan to go and what you want to do.

If you're looking to explore the north, the best time to visit is typically between November and April. This is when the weather is cooler and drier, making it easier to explore Hanoi and nearby areas. However, December and January can be particularly cold in the far north.

Central Vietnam tends to be hot and dry between January and August, making it a great time to visit the beaches in Danang and Hoi An. However, it can be rainy from September to November.

Southern Vietnam experiences two distinct seasons. From November to April, the weather is dry and hot, making it a great time to visit Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta. From May to October, it's warm and wet, with the highest rainfall occurring in June, July, and August.

It's important to research the weather patterns of the specific regions you'll be visiting and plan accordingly. Keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to pack clothing for different conditions.

No matter when you visit Vietnam, you're sure to find plenty of fascinating sights and experiences. With its rich culture, delicious food, and stunning natural beauty, Vietnam is a destination worth exploring any time of year.

5 - TOP TOURIST DESTINATIONS IN VIETNAM

Vietnam is a country with diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and friendly people. If you are planning a trip to Vietnam, here are some of the top tourist destinations that you should consider visiting

Rice terraces in Northern Vietnam

Hanoi: The capital of Vietnam is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the country.

With its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine, Hanoi offers a unique glimpse into Vietnam's culture and heritage.

Ho Chi Minh City: Also known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling metropolis in southern Vietnam. Here, you can experience the hustle and bustle of city life, sample delicious street food, and visit historical sites such as the Cu Chi Tunnels.

Ha Long Bay: This stunning natural wonder is located in northern Vietnam and is famous for its emerald waters, towering limestone cliffs, and picturesque islands. A cruise on Ha Long Bay is a must-do activity for anyone visiting the country.

Hoi An: Located in central Vietnam, Hoi An is a charming town that offers a glimpse into Vietnam's ancient past. With its well-preserved architecture, colorful lanterns, and delicious food, Hoi An is a popular destination for tourists.

Hue: This ancient city is located in central Vietnam and is home to several historical landmarks, including the Imperial City and the Forbidden Purple City. Hue is also known for its delicious cuisine, which is considered some of the best in the country.

Phu Quoc Island: Located off the southern coast of Vietnam, Phu Quoc is a beautiful island that offers white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning sunsets. It's the perfect destination for those looking to relax and soak up the sun.

Sapa: Located in the mountains of northern Vietnam, Sapa is a popular destination for trekking and hiking. Here, you can explore picturesque rice terraces, meet local hill tribes, and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

These are just a few of the top tourist destinations in Vietnam. Whether you're interested in history, culture, nature, or simply relaxing on the beach, Vietnam has something for everyone."

6 - WHERE TO STAY

When planning your trip to Vietnam, choosing the right place to stay is essential. You can find a variety of accommodations to fit your budget and preferences. Popular booking platforms like booking.com, agoda, and airbnb offer options for all budgets, locations, and amenities, and you can read reviews from previous guests. TripAdvisor is another great resource to consider as it features reviews and ratings from travelers.

Vietnam offers 4-star and 5-star hotels with numerous amenities and services ranging from $100 to $400 USD per night, and boutique hotels and private apartments in central locations for around $30 to $80 USD per night. If you're looking for a unique experience, homestays are available throughout the country, offering an opportunity to live with local families and learn more about Vietnamese culture while supporting the local community.

Where you stay depends on your travel goals, preferences, and budget. With numerous options available, you're sure to find the perfect accommodations for your trip to Vietnam.

7 - WHAT TO EAT

Vietnamese cuisine is diverse and delicious, and with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. To help you out, we recommend beginning your culinary adventure with these classic dishes.

First up is Pho: This iconic noodle soup is a staple of Vietnamese cuisine, made with a rich beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, and thinly sliced meat. It's often served with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and lime wedges on the side.

Next is Banh Mi: This Vietnamese-style sandwich is made with a crusty baguette, typically filled with grilled meat, pâté, pickled vegetables, and chili sauce. It's a perfect grab-and-go meal for a quick and tasty snack.

Third on the list is Bun Cha: This dish is a popular street food in Hanoi, featuring grilled pork patties and slices of pork belly served with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a sweet and savory dipping sauce.

Fourth is Cao Lau: This dish is a specialty of Hoi An, featuring thick rice noodles, pork slices, herbs, and bean sprouts in a rich broth, topped with crispy croutons and fried pork fat.

Last but not least is Cha Ca: This Hanoi-style fish dish is made with turmeric-marinated fish, served sizzling hot with dill, peanuts, and rice noodles, and eaten with shrimp paste and chili sauce.

These are just a few examples of the delicious and diverse foods you can try in Vietnam. Whether you're a foodie or just looking to explore the local cuisine, there's something for everyone in this vibrant and flavorful country.

8 - SIM CARD

While in Vietnam, you can use the free Wi-Fi provided by hotels, cafes, and restaurants, but it can be unreliable when you're out and about. To stay connected on the go, you can purchase a local SIM card. The three main providers in Vietnam are Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone, with Viettel being the most recommended. You can easily buy a SIM card at the airport upon arrival, as there are numerous kiosks available. If you've already left the airport without a SIM card, you can visit one of the mobile operators' branch offices, which can be found conveniently in all major cities.

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