Travellers Guide To Vietnam
QUICK FACTS
The S-shaped country of Vietnam covers 331,041 km2, with a current population of 96,160,163, made up of 54 ethnic groups. This is a country with a rich history, once filled with turbulence and unrest, now the country is becoming a cultural hub which draws in curious travellers from all around the world. For us, we wish to unravel the textile history of Vietnam and we aim to discover the unique traditions one thread at a time. On this tour, we will first delve into Hanoi's Old Quarter, known as 36 Old Streets, peering into workshops at every corner. Then we will proceed to the mountainous region of North Vietnam, to explore age-old weaving and learn dyeing techniques from local tribal artisans. Together we will enjoy the scenic beauty and traditional cultures within a luxurious environment, all at the edge of the Himalayas.
The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Vietnam: Hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.
Travel Insurance for all travellers is a requirement, please check our T&Cs.
CURRENCY
The currency of Vietnam is the Dong. 1 USD is equivalent to about 23.2 VND.
Vietnam is still a cash-based country, especially for purchases made with local small merchants. The USD is widely accepted, and most larger establishments now also accept credit cards. Tip: Exchange foreign currency into USD beforehand from your bank before flying out. There are numerous jewellery shops along Ha Trung Street in Hanoi. These gold dealers exchange USD at reasonable exchange rates.
Average Local Salary: The average monthly salary of a worker in Vietnam is about $148 per month; those in high paying jobs bring home around $500 per month.
TAXIS
Support local reputable taxi companies: My Linh and CP Taxi, it will cost approximately VND 330,000 or US$15 to arrive into central Hanoi. Excluding road tolls. Uber is no longer available, they have Grab which is the equivalent.
Taxi CP - (+84) 26 26 26 - Hanoi Taxi - (+84) 53 53 53 - Mai Linh Taxi - (+84) 222 6661
VISAS
Please check this link whether you require a travel visa: https://www.myvietnamvisa.com/visa-requirements.html
- Ensure that your passport has at least 6-month validity from the date of travel.
- Application Form: M3 entry/exit form (for visa on arrival)
Step 1 — Fill out a quick application form online (you will need to know your arrival date and the name of the airport at which you will arrive, also your hotel details) Step 2 — Pay the visa servicing fee online Step 3 — Within two business days, you will get an email with your official Vietnam visa Approval Letter issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department Step 4 — Print the Approval Letter and prepare two (4cm x 6cm) photos of yourself according to noted requirements Step 5 — Bring the printed Approval Letter, photos, and the government Stamping Fee (along with your passport and any other required documents) with you on your trip to Vietnam. Step 6 — When you arrive at your destination airport in Vietnam, show the Approval Letter and photos at the Immigration office
AIRPORT
Airport: Noi Bai International Airport - We commence and conclude the tour in Hanoi. Take into consideration Hanoi to Noi Bai Airport is approximately 30minutes.
WEATHER
The dry, cooler weather has returned to the north of Vietnam, making November one of the best months to visit. By November the hot and wet summer and the stifling humidity is a distant memory. Temperatures remain moderate and there is little rain. Should it rain, it is infrequent and light. The average temp is 24°C. As we move into Mai Chau the climate is humid subtropical and dry. The highest temperature is 34.2°C and the lowest is 13.1°C, with an average yearly temperature of 23.5°C. Mai Chau is coldest in January and warmest in September
POWER
Standard voltage and frequency is 50Hz and 22OV respectively. The plugs used are usually type A, type C and type F. A universal travel adapter is highly recommended - (make sure it has surge protection) - a converter is great for hair dryers and hot tools if you wish to bring your own. Our hotels will have in-room hair dryers.
WIFI& EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Our hotels offer complimentary wifi access, at the Topas Ecolodge there is no wifi in bedrooms, access to wifi will only be available at designated areas on the compound. Most cafes will have wi-fi access, so I generally take the opportunity to take a coffee break to check in with the digital world. There are also many internet cafes. Also, a local sim card can be purchased from local convenience or telecommunication stores, which would help you communicate effectively using your phone if you are working.
Country dialling code is +84 International call prefix: 00 Trunk prefix: 0
Emergency: contact numbers: 113 – Police. 114 – Fire. 115 – Ambulance/First Aid.
ETIQUETTE
Etiquette notes: Remove your shoes when entering a private house. Don't pat or touch an adult (or child) on the head. Avoid pointing your feet at people or sacred objects (e.g. Buddhas).
In Vietnam, the elders are given titles, and are generally titled ‘big/little brother’ or ‘big/little sister’, or ‘uncle’ and ‘auntie’ depending on the age difference to you – so don’t be alarmed if you are asked by strangers for your age or year of birth. This helps the locals to understand how to address you.
When meeting elders, a slight bow of the head whilst arms crossed is a sign of respect.
There is still a military presence in Hanoi, try to avoid taking photographs in areas where police or military individuals are present.
Be respectful and use your best judgment when taking photos of tribes in rural regions.
When visiting local communities, do not enter unless invited in by the home owners.
CREDIT CARDS & ATMS
You won’t have a problem finding ATMs in Vietnams big cities like Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi. Most ATMs accept Visa cards, but you might struggle to find one that accepts Cirrus and Maestro.
SAFETY
It’s not uncommon for people to ride up next to you on their bikes and grab your phone out of hands. Ensure you store valuables in the hotel safe, or keep them hidden in a bag which you should keep safe with you at all times. Tip: A hidden pouch worn under your garments if you prefer to keep your valuable close.
Stay away from stray dogs.
In Hanoi particularly, when crossing the streets it is recommended that you do so cautiously, look left and right, do not stop in the middle of the road. Maintain a calm and steady pace.
WHAT TO PACK
Travelling water bottles that you can replenish and refill, there are charcoal filters on the market which takes time before making tap water drinkable, and there are more advance options using MAD Nano technology which you can fill and drink immediately from.
Avoid tap water, and ordering ice in cold beverages. In general, with such a short stay, to avoid the likelihood of falling ill, remain vigilant about street food, including raw vegetables, as they could be washed with unfiltered water, so consuming cooked food is always recommended.
Hand sanitiser or hygiene wipes, great for flights to wipe down those food trays, and also while on the road ensure they are eco friendly. For the drive to Mai Chau we will stop along the way for toilet breaks, please bring toilet paper with you, and small Dong currency to enter the bathrooms, as some require payment to access the bathroom facilities.
Along with your toiletries, remember to bring along any required medication you may need.
Coconut oil which has a multitude of uses - as an Ayurvedic mouth wash, moisturiser/sunscreen, lip balm, hair treatment, mixed with sugar or salt granules creates a lovely exfoliating scrub.
A scarf or shawl is always convenient when travelling, as it has a many uses. Vietnam is still a conservative country so skimpy clothing or flashy jewellery may attract unwanted attention.
Also a mini umbrella, should we experience any rain.
SPF50+ is a travellers must!! if you do find yourself requiring some SPF, coconut oil can can be used for short durations in the sun.
Travelling solo as a women, may attract curiosity from men, some women choose to wear a dummy wedding ring as a decoy to avoid such questions being asked.
READ THE BENEFITS OF TRAVELLING SOLO AS A WOMAN
SCAMS
There are many ways in which some unscrupulous retailers, taxi drivers and other service providers can try to catch out visitors to the country, and using unofficial inflated exchange rates is a common trick. Tip: Check your Dong notes before you make a purchase and count the change you receive. Vietnamese Dong notes come in the following denominations: 500 000 (~25 USD), 200 000(~10 USD), 100 000 (~5 USD), 50 000(~2.50 USD), 20 000 (~1 USD), 10 000(~50 cents), 5000 (~25 cents), 2000 (~10 cents), 1000 (~5 cents) and 500 (~2.5 cents).
BEGGERS
Begging is quite common, mainly in tourist areas, but most beggars will leave you alone if you say no. Children beggars are also very common. Tip: If you find yourself surrounded by children, don’t give money or candy, just keep walking and be firm, if you are taking photos of tribal communities, don’t be surprised that they will be willing to pose, and immediately after they will ask for money - so do ask permission beforehand when taking photos.
TIPPING
Tipping is not required in Vietnam, but generally rounding off to the nearest dollar is always appreciated.
HAGGLING
Entering into negotiations for something you’re not in love with will mean you try to pay too little for something you don’t even want. Then, nobody wins. Generally I like to shop around to get an idea of quality, and gain some product knowledge before making a shopping list, which I review till the final few days of my trip to purchase. That way I know I really like the item, and have not been overwhelmed and excited in the moment!
Always be respectful, and keep a sense of humour, where both parties walk away with a smile. Also know when to walk away. Use your instincts.
Silver, which is common in tribal villages, varies in purity, as most pieces are made using old colonial silver coins. Stores will weigh the silver item and price it based on the exchange rate. Note that silver is generally a blend of aluminium or brass, and if you do find good quality silver, they are generally unmarked 925. Tip: The magnet test is a quick ‘on the spot’ way of checking the silver. Also consider the sound, weight of the item, and the colour of the silver.
EXOTIC ANIMALS
There will be some restaurants and market stalls selling various exotic products or products which could be sensitive to some travellers. Dog meat is still consumed in some areas, however not common as some laws prohibiting the eating of dog meat due to health related have been issued.
FOOD OPTIONS
Cafes: Giang Café – The Egg Coffee, Tranquil Books and Coffee, The Hanoi Social Club, Marou Chocolate – chocolate grown in Vietnam, RuNam Bistro Restaurants: Tan Vi, Madame Hien, Banh Cuon, Banh Mi 25, Home, Tadioto,
SHOPS
Gallery 54 - One unique service that the gallery provides are fact sheets for every object, which contain information for serious students/collectors and travellers like yours.
Boutiques in Hanoi: Kilomet 109, Chula Fashion, Collective Memory, The Craft Cathedral