Vietnam – Southeast Asia's underrated gem
History, nature & culinary adventures
Glimpses of Vietnam
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Essentials
Safety
Vietnam is generally very safe for travelers. Usual caution with petty theft in busy areas and traffic awareness (esp. when renting a scooter) goes a long way. Locals are friendly and helpful.
Best time
Stretching 1,600 km north to south, Vietnam spans several climate zones:
- Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa): Mar–May & Sep–Nov
- Central Vietnam (Huế, Hội An, Da Nang):Mar–Aug
- Southern Vietnam (Saigon, Mekong Delta):Dec–Apr
Thanks to the country length there's almost always good weather somewhere – ideal for flexible itineraries.
Currency &Language
The currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Cash dominates; cards are fine in hotels & bigger venues. Vietnamese is the language – basic English works in hostels and younger crowds. A polite "Cảm ơn" (thanks) wins smiles.
Visa & Entry
- Visa exemption (up to 45 days): For many European passports – stamp on arrival.
- E-visa: For longer stays (up to 90 days, multiple entry) apply online early via the official website.
SIM & Internet
Excellent 4G nationwide and cheap. Main providers: Viettel (best coverage), MobiFone, Vinaphone.
Tourist SIM cost:
- Prepaid at airport or shop
- ~€5–10 for 30 days unlimited data
- eSIM options available (Airalo etc.)
Getting Around
Vietnam's transport network is diverse – choose what fits your style & time.
- Domestic flights: Great for big distances (e.g. Hanoi–Saigon). Low-cost airlines from €30.
- Trains: Slow but scenic – Huế to Da Nang is iconic. Night trains are an experience.
- Buses & sleepers: Extensive network, quality varies. Sleeper buses surprisingly comfy.
- Scooter / motorbike: Popular for regional loops (e.g. Ha Giang, Hải Vân Pass). Ride defensively!
- Grab & Gojek: Easiest in cities – safe & cheap.
Top Destinations
Hanoi – Lively capital
Old Quarter maze, street food heaven, temples and 1000 years of layered history.
Ha Long Bay – UNESCO wonder
1,600+ karst pillars in jade waters. Best explored via a 2–3 day cruise.
Hội An – Lantern town
Immaculate Old Town, tailors, riverside cafes & night-time lantern glow.
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – Economic engine
High-energy, chaotic, modern – skyscrapers, markets & epic nightlife.
Nature & Outdoors
Wild landscapes
Vietnam's diversity spans towering rice terraces, surreal cave systems, jungle waterfalls and remote island beaches.
- Sapa rice terraces : Trekking & minority village stays.
- Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park : Otherworldly cave systems incl. the world's largest.
- Phú Quốc &Côn Đảo : Under-the-radar islands with pristine beaches.
- Waterfalls & jungle: Plenty of underrated wilderness if you go off-path.
Food & Drinks
A street food paradise
Vietnam delivers world-class flavor for pocket change – fresh, vibrant and full of herbs.
Must-try dishes
- Phở: Classic noodle soup with beef or chicken.
- Bánh mì: Crispy baguette fusion sandwich.
- Gỏi cuốn: Fresh summer rolls with herbs & shrimp.
- Bún chả: Grilled pork with noodles & herbs.
Coffee culture
Second-largest coffee producer globally – try Egg Coffee and iced condensed milk coffee (Cà phê sữa đá).
Culture & Tips
🙏 Etiquette essentials
Friendly people, relaxed rhythm – a few basics help you blend in respectfully.
- Show respect: Smile, cover shoulders in temples, remove shoes indoors.
- Traffic: Looks chaotic – stay calm and walk steadily; scooters flow around you.
- Avoid confrontation: Staying calm preserves face and gets better outcomes.
- Markets: Bargain politely – it’s part of the game.
Unforgettable Experiences
Signature adventures
- Cooking class in Hội An: Take the flavors home.
- Vespa food tour in Saigon: Urban tasting on two wheels.
- Cave expeditions in Phong Nha: Surreal underground worlds.
- Ha Giang Loop: Legendary multi-day motorbike journey.
- Overnight trains: Slow travel charm + hotel savings.
Useful Apps
- Grab: Ride hailing & food delivery.
- 12Go Asia: Book buses, trains, ferries, flights.
- ChatGPT: Translation & on-the-go travel assistant.
- Agoda / Hostelworld / Booking: Deals for accommodation.
- Maps.me: Offline navigation & trail mapping.
Conclusion
Vietnam blends contrasts: mountain passes, humid delta life, layered history and explosive cuisine – and it's one of the best-value destinations in Southeast Asia.
Authentic, diverse and still less overrun than some neighbors – this is the Southeast Asia that stays with you.
Come open-minded – you'll likely want to return. Vietnam sticks with you.