Vietnam travel tips for first-timers: what to know

Vietnam is full-on – in the best possible way. You’ll hear five types of horns before breakfast, order coffee that tastes like dessert, and realize half the population is on a motorbike at any given moment. Street corners double as kitchens. Pavements are optional. One day you’re picking through a war museum, the next you’re drifting past limestone cliffs in a boat made for two. It’s not always easy, but it’s never boring. These Vietnam travel tips won’t tell you what’s ‘unmissable’ – they’ll tell you what’s worth your time.

When is the best time to visit Vietnam?

The best time to visit Vietnam depends on where you're going and what you're willing to put up with. The weather flips as you move from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, and no two regions follow the same script. You’ll need to think in zones, not blanket seasons.

Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long Bay)

October to April is cooler and drier – good for hiking, boat trips, and not sweating through your shirt by 9 am. December and January can get surprisingly chilly, especially in the mountains. May to September brings heat, humidity, and downpours – fine if you don’t mind afternoon storms or misty views on the bay.

Central Vietnam (Hoi An, Da Nang, Hue)

This stretch runs on its own calendar. February to August is dry – great for beaches and motorbike trips. Typhoons hit from September to November, flooding streets and throwing travel plans off-course.

Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc)

November to May is your best bet for dry days and bright skies – ideal for floating markets and island escapes. June to October means rain, often sudden and heavy, but usually short-lived. It’s still hot – just bring a poncho.

Is Vietnam expensive?

Short answer: Not really – unless you want it to be. Vietnam is still one of the better-value countries in Southeast Asia, especially if you stick to local spots and steer clear of anything that screams “influencer favorite.”

Some of the best things to do in Vietnam – trekking in Sapa, cruising Ha Long Bay overnight, or sipping rooftop cocktails in Saigon – will chip away at your budget fast. A basic Ha Long Bay cruise can cost $40-$60 for a day trip. Multi-day tours run higher. Western-style restaurants in big cities charge accordingly – and often underdeliver.

If you're traveling on a budget, $25-40 a day is doable. Think: hostel dorms, bánh mì lunches, and sleeper buses between cities. Street food is cheap and good – a bowl of bún chả in Hanoi will cost less than your morning coffee back home.

With a mid-range budget ($60-90/day), you can upgrade to boutique guesthouses, book internal flights instead of 10-hour buses, and eat at nicer local restaurants. You’ll also have room for the occasional guided tour or cooking class.

Going all in? Vietnam has luxury options – just fewer of them. You’ll find sleek hotels in Hoi An, private cabins on the bay, and high-end tasting menus in Ho Chi Minh City. But the true splurge often comes in the form of time – slow travel, longer stays, and not rushing through it all.

Is Vietnam safe for travelers?

Mostly – but don’t switch off completely. Vietnam is generally safe, and most trips are trouble-free. You’ll find the vibe friendly, especially outside the major cities. Still, a few smart moves can save you a lot of hassle. These essential Vietnam travel tips will help you stay sharp and travel smarter.

Crime and personal safety

Violent crime is rare, but petty theft happens, especially in busy spots like Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1, and on night buses. Bag snatching by motorbike thieves is a thing, so keep your phone off the streetside and don’t sling your bag loosely.

Scams? Yep. Fake taxis, rigged meters, dodgy motorbike rentals, and “overfriendly” locals with surprise bar tabs are all part of the scene. Some ATMs get tampered with, so stick to machines at banks.

Solo female travelers usually feel safe, especially during the day. Harassment is uncommon but not unheard of – confidence and street smarts go a long way. Modest dress helps in smaller towns, but it’s attitude more than clothing that matters.

To stay safe:

• Keep your phone and bag close, especially when walking or riding pillion.
• Use trusted ride apps like Grab or Be instead of random taxis.
• Count your change, and avoid money changers on the street.
• Don’t walk down alleys alone at night – even if Google Maps tells you it’s faster.

Regional risks and natural hazards

You might hear about past unrest in some remote provinces, but these areas are rarely on tourist itineraries – and even more rarely a concern. Just check government travel advisories if you’re going deep into the countryside.

Flooding and landslides can hit the north during the rainy season (June to September), especially around Sapa or Ha Giang. Typhoons sometimes disrupt travel in central Vietnam between September and November. Keep tabs on forecasts – and build in some flexibility if you're heading to the mountains or coast.

Culture, customs, and respect

Vietnam is relaxed in some ways, and old-school in others. People won’t say much, but you’ll stand out fast if you ignore the basics.

• Public shouting or anger won’t get you far – stay calm, even when things go sideways.
• Dress modestly when visiting temples or rural areas – shoulders and knees covered.
• LGBTQ+ travelers are generally welcome, especially in cities, though PDA still turns heads in smaller places.
• Bribes are illegal – and far less common than they used to be. If someone hints, a polite no usually works.

Do you need a visa for Vietnam?

That depends on your passport and how long you plan to stay. Vietnam’s visa rules have relaxed a bit in recent years, but they’re still stricter than some of its neighbors. The good news? For short trips, many nationalities can skip the paperwork altogether.

Visa-free entry and tourist visas

Citizens of select countries – including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the UK, Japan, and South Korea – can enter Vietnam visa-free for stays of up to 15 days. If you’re from a Southeast Asian country like Thailand or Singapore, you may get up to 30 days.

The US, Canada, Australia, and most others need a visa – but the process isn’t too painful. The easiest option is an e-visa, available to citizens of over 80 countries. It’s valid for 90 days (single or multiple entry) and usually takes 3–5 working days to process. Cost? Around $25-50 depending on the number of entries.

Just make sure your passport is valid for at least six months and you enter and exit through approved ports – most major airports and some land borders are covered.

Can you extend your visa?

Yes – though it’s not as flexible as in some other countries. E-visas can sometimes be extended, but the process is inconsistent and best handled through a local travel agency. Visa runs (leaving the country and returning) are still common for longer stays.

Visa on arrival?

Technically, it still exists – but only with pre-approval through a travel agency. It's mostly used for business or multi-entry visas. For tourism, the e-visa is your best bet.

How to stay healthy while traveling in Vietnam?

Looking for Vietnam travel health tips? Start with the basics: dodge mosquitoes, keep cool, and don’t get too bold with unfamiliar food. Big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have good private hospitals and pharmacies, but once you hit the mountains or remote river deltas, don’t count on it. If you’re heading off-grid, be ready – especially in places like Ha Giang or the Mekong backwaters.

Medical care and pharmacies

Private hospitals in major cities, like Vinmec or FV Hospital, offer solid care, often with English-speaking staff. Rural clinics are hit or miss. They might be closed, low on supplies, or have long waits. Bring travel insurance that covers evacuation, just in case.

Pharmacies (look for “Nhà thuốc”) are everywhere, including small towns. Many medications are available over the counter, but staff might not speak much English outside urban areas. Pack your essentials – especially for chronic issues, allergies, or anything that’s hard to explain with hand gestures.

Vaccinations and prep

No vaccines are mandatory for entry, but a few are strongly recommended. Talk to a travel clinic before you go.

• Tetanus – Cuts and scrapes are easy to come by, especially on treks or bike rides.
• Hepatitis A – Commonly spread through food and water.
• Hepatitis B – More relevant for longer stays or medical treatment.
• Typhoid – Good idea if you're eating at street stalls or going rural.
• Rabies – Optional, but worth considering if you’ll be around animals, especially in remote areas.
• Japanese encephalitis – A consideration for long stays in rural or agricultural areas, especially during the rainy season.

Malaria is not a major concern for most tourists. But dengue fever is common, especially in cities during the wet season. There’s no vaccine for travelers, so your best defense is avoiding bites.

Water, food, and stomach survival

Tap water? Don’t. Even locals boil it. Stick to bottled, filtered, or UV-treated water – even for brushing your teeth. Hotels usually provide a few bottles, and minimarts are everywhere.

Vietnamese food is a highlight, and it’s generally safe, especially if it’s cooked hot and fast. That said, play it smart:

• Avoid anything that’s been sitting out, especially in the heat.
• Be careful with salads and fruit you didn’t peel yourself.
• Only trust ice if you know it’s from a purified source (most cafés and restaurants use commercial ice, but ask if unsure).

If you get hit with food poisoning or an upset stomach, pharmacies stock antidiarrheals, charcoal tablets, and rehydration salts. Pack a basic stash just in case.

Heat, sun, and tropical hazards

Vietnam is humid, especially in the south. Trekking in Sapa or biking in Hoi An sounds great – until you overheat.

• Drink water regularly, not just when you feel parched.
• Wear light, breathable clothing.
• Take it slow between noon and 3 pm.
• Sunscreen is a must – even when it's cloudy. UV levels are no joke.

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are annoying at best, dangerous at worst. Dengue fever is the main concern in Vietnam, particularly in the rainy season and lowland urban areas. There’s no cure or vaccine for travelers – prevention is everything.

• Use repellent with DEET or picaridin every day, especially in the evening.
• Sleep under a net or in rooms with screens or AC.
• Wear long sleeves and pants at dusk, especially near water or fields.

Cultural etiquette to know before visiting Vietnam

Vietnam is laid-back on the surface, but cultural awareness goes a long way. Locals won’t always correct you, but knowing a few unwritten rules earns instant respect – and smoother interactions.

Dress modestly, especially at temples

You don’t need to dress formally, but revealing outfits draw attention outside tourist zones.

• Women: Shorts and tanks are fine at the beach, but cover your shoulders and knees in temples or villages.
• Men: Shirts stay on, even in beach towns.
• Take off your shoes and hats before entering temples or pagodas. Modesty matters more than fashion.

Greetings and manners

Vietnamese people value respect, especially toward elders and authority.

• A nod or smile is usually enough. Handshakes are okay, but wait for the other person to offer.
• Use titles like “Anh” (older brother) or “Chị” (older sister) when addressing someone – it’s polite and expected.
• Pass items with both hands or your right hand supported by your left.
• Avoid touching heads, pointing with one finger, or showing the soles of your feet.

Public behavior: stay calm

Losing your temper in public is frowned on. Even if you’re frustrated, keep your voice down.

• Public displays of affection are low-key – hand-holding is fine, kissing isn’t.
• Being drunk or rowdy in public, especially in smaller towns, isn’t a good look.

Eating: share and be polite

Meals are social. Wait to be invited to start eating – a quick “mời ăn” means "please eat."

• Don’t stick chopsticks upright in rice – it resembles funeral offerings.
• Offer others food first, especially elders.
• Use communal utensils if provided.
• Slurping is normal, and a bit of mess is fine. But don’t play with your chopsticks.

Temples, altars, and respect

Religion is personal in Vietnam – quiet but ever-present.

• Dress modestly in sacred spaces and speak softly.
• Don’t take selfies with Buddha statues or sit with your back to an altar.
• Ancestor altars are common in homes and shops – don’t touch or lean on them.

Tipping in Vietnam

Tipping isn’t mandatory, but is appreciated.

• In restaurants, round up or leave 5-10%.
• Tip guides, porters, and drivers a few dollars if they were helpful.
• In taxis or Grab, rounding up is the norm.

Is Vietnam a good destination for families?

Yes – if your crew’s into busy cities, rice field bike rides, and slurping noodles on tiny stools, Vietnam with kids can be a great adventure. It’s not built for children in the theme-park sense, but it’s warm, safe, and full of the kind of real-life experiences kids remember. Just prep for heat, honking traffic, and the occasional squat toilet.

Vietnamese culture is family-focused. Kids are welcome just about everywhere – locals might offer snacks, take photos, or even ask to hold your baby. Travel with flexibility, take it slow, and these Vietnam travel tips for families will help you make the most of it.

Where to go with kids in Vietnam

• Hanoi mixes chaotic energy with plenty for kids: puppet shows, wide parks around Hoan Kiem Lake, and museums like the Vietnamese Women’s Museum with interactive exhibits. The Old Quarter isn’t stroller-friendly, but kids love the buzz.
• Hoi An is a sweet spot: small, scenic, and walkable. Lantern-lit streets, river boat rides, and beach days at An Bang make it easy for families. Many hotels here cater to kids with pools, bikes, and space to roam.
• Da Nang has beaches, modern malls, and a small amusement park vibe. It’s calmer than HCMC, but still has all the conveniences. Nearby Ba Na Hills has a cable car and a giant Golden Bridge – very Instagram, but kids will enjoy the ride.
• Ninh Binh offers boat rides through karst cliffs and rural bike paths with water buffalo in the fields. Great for school-age kids with energy to burn.
• Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is intense but manageable. It has indoor play zones, water parks, and kid-friendly cafés. Use it as a jump-off for the Mekong Delta – boat rides and homestays here can be surprisingly fun for little ones.

Getting around Vietnam and where to stay

Getting around Vietnam with kids isn’t seamless – sidewalks are rough, traffic doesn’t stop, and strollers are a pain. Use a baby carrier and take it slow when crossing streets. Grab is the easiest option in cities, but car seats are rare, so bring your own if needed. Trains are great for longer trips; buses are less so with little ones.

Vietnam accommodations range from guesthouses to full resorts. Many offer family rooms, even if they’re not listed online. Bigger hotels often have pools, breakfast buffets, and space for kids to burn energy – just ask in advance about extras like cots or early check-in.

Food, supplies, and eating out with kids

Vietnamese food works well for kids – fried rice, grilled meats, noodles, and tropical fruit are easy wins. Restaurants are used to kids and won’t bat an eye at mess or noise.

Diapers, wipes, and formula are easy to find in cities, but limited in rural areas. Bring what you need for longer treks. Bring your own high chair strap if that matters – most places won’t have one.

Safety and health Vietnam travel tips for families

• Heat and humidity hit hard. Plan AC breaks, stay hydrated, and go slow mid-afternoon.
• Use mosquito repellent, especially near water or in rural areas.
• Tap water isn’t safe – use bottled or filtered, even for brushing teeth.
• Crossing the street is an experience. Watch and learn from locals – don’t wait for a perfect gap.
• Healthcare is solid in cities. Hanoi and HCMC have international clinics. Rural care is more basic. Pharmacies are common, and staff usually speak enough English to help.

What are the best places to visit in Vietnam?

Looking for the best places to visit in Vietnam? Whether you’re chasing mountain views, motorbike routes, or quiet beaches, Vietnam delivers variety in every direction. Here’s your shortcut to the towns, cities, and landscapes that belong on your itinerary – including a few that might surprise you.

• Hanoi – The capital’s all noise, noodles, and charm. Explore the Old Quarter’s maze of streets, sip egg coffee, and stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake. It’s also a good base for trips to Ninh Binh and Ha Long Bay. For the best areas to stay in Hanoi, pick the Old Quarter for energy, the French Quarter for calm, or West Lake for a quieter local feel.
• Sapa – Misty mountains, rice terraces, and ethnic minority villages. Best explored on foot (or motorbike if you’re game), Sapa offers trekking routes past waterfalls, homestays with hearty meals, and views that make the journey worth the altitude.
• Ha Long Bay – Yes, it’s popular – but there’s a reason. Towering limestone cliffs rise from emerald water, and overnight cruises let you kayak, swim, and sleep under the stars. You’ll also find hidden coves and sandy stretches that rank among the best beaches in Vietnam – just don’t expect wide shorelines.
• Ninh Binh – Think of it as Ha Long Bay’s inland cousin, minus the boats. River cruises through karst valleys, temples tucked into cliffs, and epic cycling paths through farmland. Stay in Tam Coc for easy access to the good stuff.
• Phong Nha – A cave lover’s paradise. Home to the world’s largest cave (Hang Son Doong, permit required), plus dozens of others you can visit easily. Adventure tours range from low-key strolls to full-on spelunking.
• Hue – Vietnam’s imperial city, packed with crumbling palaces, royal tombs, and riverside pagodas. It’s a slower pace, great for exploring history, sampling spicy cuisine, and biking along the Perfume River.
• Hoi An – A crowd favorite. The old town’s lantern-lit streets, tailor shops, and riverside cafés make it charming even when it’s busy. Take a cooking class, bike to An Bang Beach, or just wander with a camera.
• Dalat – Up in the Central Highlands, Dalat feels like a different country. Cool weather, pine forests, flower farms, and old French villas give it a quirky vibe. Try canyoning or visit the kitschy Crazy House.
• Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – Bold, busy, and buzzing with energy. Markets, museums, rooftop bars, and non-stop food keep things moving day and night. This is also the heart of Vietnam nightlife – from backpacker bars on Bui Vien to sleek cocktail lounges in District 1.

How long to spend in Vietnam?

It’s tempting to rush through Vietnam – but you’ll regret it. The country’s long and skinny, with wildly different vibes between north and south. Add in winding roads, slow trains, and the occasional flooded highway, and fast travel just turns into missed chances. Give yourself time – Vietnam rewards those who don’t sprint through it.

Before you book, ask:

• Are you here just for cities and food, or do you want mountains, caves, beaches, and backroads too?
• How many overnight buses, motorbike rides, or internal flights are you willing to take?
• Are you sticking to the classic north-to-south route, or diving into the remote corners?

Rough timing breakdown

• 5 days in Vietnam – Enough for one city and its surroundings. Hanoi + a Ha Long Bay day trip works well, or base yourself in Hoi An and explore the central coast. You’ll move fast, so skip anything that involves long transfers or overnight travel.
• 7 days in Vietnam – One full region, comfortably. Do northern Vietnam: Hanoi, Ninh Binh, and a short Ha Long Bay cruise. Or pick the central route: Hoi An, Da Nang, and maybe Hue. You’ll see more without spending your whole trip in transit.
• 10 days in Vietnam – A sweet spot. You can travel between two regions without burning out. Try Hanoi + Ninh Binh + Ha Long Bay, then fly south for a few days in Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta. Or go central and south: Hoi An + Da Nang + Saigon.
• 14 days in Vietnam – Time for a classic north-to-south (or reverse) trip. Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City with key stops: Ninh Binh, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, and maybe a beach break in Phu Quoc or a detour into the Mekong. Build in buffer time for slow travel days or weather hiccups. It’s full but doable – and actually fun.

What’s the best way to plan a Vietnam itinerary?

Planning a trip to Vietnam isn’t about ticking off landmarks – it’s about building something that flows. The country may look like one skinny strip on the map, but travel takes time. Trains are slow, buses wind through mountain roads, and “just one more stop” often means a full day lost in transit. The best Vietnam itinerary gives each place space to breathe.

Start with how long you’ve got

Time makes or breaks a Vietnam trip. Squeeze too much in and it becomes a blur of bus stations and hotel check-ins.

• 5-7 days – Stick to one region. Hanoi + Ninh Binh + a Ha Long Bay cruise works in the north. Or base in Hoi An and add Da Nang and the Marble Mountains. Trying to go north to south in a week? Don’t.
• 10-14 days – You’ve got room to move. Travel from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City (or vice versa), stopping in Hoi An, Hue, and maybe squeezing in Phong Nha or Ninh Binh. It’ll be full, but doable.
• 3 weeks or more – The trip gets deeper. Add the Ha Giang Loop, Sapa, the Mekong Delta, or even a beach break in Phu Quoc or Con Dao. You’ll have time for detours, bad weather, or just a day with nothing planned.

Match your route to your style

Vietnam is diverse – don’t just copy someone else’s itinerary. Build yours around what actually excites you.

Into culture, food, and cities?

• Hanoi – old-school charm, street food, temples.
• Hue – imperial history and spicy dishes.
• Ho Chi Minh City – fast-paced, modern, and full of contrast.

Prefer nature and slow travel?

• Ha Giang – epic motorbike loops, mountain passes.
• Ninh Binh – river cruises and limestone cliffs.
• Mekong Delta – slow boats, floating markets, village life.

Looking for beaches?

• Hoi An – easy coastal escape with charm.
• Phu Quoc – a classic tropical island with clear water.
• Con Dao – remote, quiet, and underrated.

Getting around Vietnam: plan it right

Transport in Vietnam can be fun – or it can derail your trip if you overreach.

• Trains – Great views, but slow. Ideal for overnight routes (like Hanoi to Hue).
• Flights – Fast and affordable for long jumps. Book early during Tet or summer.
• Buses – Cheap, but can be rough. Use trusted companies like Futa or The Sinh Tourist.
• Motorbikes – Classic Vietnam move. Great in rural areas, risky in big cities.
• Taxis/Grab – Use the Grab app for safer, cheaper rides in towns and cities.

Think about the weather

Vietnam’s weather is split by region – don’t assume dry season means sunshine everywhere.

• North (Hanoi, Sapa) – Best from October to April. Winter gets chilly.
• Central (Hoi An, Hue) – Dry from February to August. Typhoons hit September-November.
• South (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong) – Hot year-round. Dry from November to May.

How to slow travel in Vietnam

Trying to rush through Vietnam in a week? You’ll miss the best parts. The country’s long, varied, and unpredictable. Trains crawl, roads curve, and detours turn into highlights. Slow travel in Vietnam means doing less, seeing more, and actually feeling the rhythm of the place.

• Start in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City – and don’t just pass through. Sip coffee by the street, wander markets, and talk to vendors. These cities are chaotic, but also full of everyday moments worth noticing.
• Plan smart, not ambitious. Stick to one region: Hanoi, Ninh Binh, and Ha Long Bay in the north. Or Hoi An, Da Nang, and Hue along the central coast. Avoid trying to cram Sapa, the Mekong, and Da Lat into a single itinerary – it’s exhausting.
• Stay longer in one spot. Rent a bike in Hoi An, chill by the beach in Phu Quoc, or hike slowly through the Ha Giang Loop. The more time you give a place, the more it gives back.
• Skip cookie-cutter hotels. Go for Vietnam homestays, guesthouses, and places with stories. They won’t just give you a bed – they’ll give you context.

The key? Pack light, talk to locals, leave space in your plan, and let things unfold. Slow travel isn’t about missing out – it’s about showing up fully.

How to handle money and payments in Vietnam?

Vietnam runs on cash, cards, and knowing when to use which. In cities, you can often pay by card. Outside urban areas or even at small street stalls? You’ll need cash, and preferably small bills.

The currency is the Vietnamese đồng (VND). Locals usually drop the “thousand” and say “fifty” when they mean 50,000 VND – context is everything.

• ATMs are easy to find in cities and big towns, but can be unreliable or empty in rural areas. Always carry a backup card and stock up before heading off-grid. Most ATMs have daily limits around 2–3 million VND (about $80-120), and withdrawal fees vary.
• Stick to machines from major banks like Vietcombank, Techcombank, or ACB – they’re more secure and more likely to work.
• Cards are accepted in mid-to-high-end hotels, restaurants, and shops, but most daily transactions are cash-based. Street food, taxis, local buses, and markets are strictly cash-only.
• Currency exchange is straightforward in cities – banks, jewelry shops, and money changers near tourist areas offer decent rates. Airport exchange booths are convenient but usually have worse rates.

What are the most common scams?

Vietnam is generally safe and welcoming, but like anywhere with a strong tourism scene, a few scams pop up, especially in big cities and transport hubs. Most are more frustrating than dangerous. Stay sharp, trust your gut, and keep these Vietnam travel tips in mind to avoid common pitfalls.

• Taxi meter “malfunctions” – The meter’s “broken,” or it jumps at lightning speed. Stick to reputable companies (Mai Linh, Vinasun) or just use Grab. If you’re in a cyclo or unmetered cab, always agree on a price upfront.
• Overpriced tours with surprise fees – That cheap Ha Long Bay or Cu Chi Tunnels tour? It might not include lunch, entry tickets, or transport back. Book through your hotel or a trusted agency, and ask what’s actually included.
• Currency confusion – Vietnamese đồng notes all have lots of zeros, and the 20,000 and 500,000 VND bills are both blue. Some vendors “accidentally” give the wrong change. Count carefully, especially in busy markets or late at night.
• Fake motorbike rentals – You return the bike, and suddenly it’s “damaged.” Always take timestamped photos before riding and avoid handing over your passport – leave a cash deposit instead.
• Overfriendly strangers – Someone starts chatting, then steers you to a café, tailor shop, or bar with inflated prices and a padded bill. If a situation feels off, smile, decline, and move on.
• Fake goods and rigged scales – In tourist markets, some sellers inflate weights or pass off knockoffs. Haggle if you want to buy – and don’t be afraid to walk away.

How to travel responsibly and ethically in Vietnam?

Vietnam is as generous with its hospitality as it is sensitive to the pressures of tourism – pollution, overtourism, and cultural erosion. Traveling responsibly here means being aware of your impact and showing basic respect to the people, the environment, and the places you pass through.

• Dress appropriately (especially in rural areas) – Vietnam isn’t overly conservative, but it’s still respectful to cover up outside beach towns. Visiting temples, villages, or anywhere in the mountains? Keep shoulders and knees covered. Locals may not comment – but they’ll notice.
• Learn a few Vietnamese words – English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but even just “xin chào” (hello) or “cảm ơn” (thank you) is appreciated. It shows respect and usually earns a smile.
• Support local businesses – Eat at family-run restaurants. Book tours through community-led projects. Skip the mass-produced souvenirs and look for handmade crafts, textiles, or ceramics – especially in places like Sapa, Hue, or the Mekong.
• Be kind to nature and heritage sites – Don’t litter – even if the bin’s nowhere in sight. Stick to marked paths in national parks. Don’t touch or lean on statues or altars in temples. And never stand on coral when snorkeling – seriously.
• Avoid unethical animal tourism – Skip snake farms, dancing bears, and photo-ops with animals on chains. If you’re visiting national parks, look for guides who prioritize conservation and don’t feed or bait wildlife.
• Use resources responsibly – In rural homestays or island bungalows, water and power are limited. Keep showers short, go easy on the air-con, and don’t expect laundry service everywhere.

Always cross like you mean it

Vietnamese traffic looks like chaos – and it kind of is. But there’s a rhythm to it. The secret to crossing the street? Don’t wait for a break. Just step in, walk slowly and predictably, and let the scooters flow around you. No sudden moves, no running. Locals do it daily – and once you get the hang of it, it’s oddly satisfying.

Coffee isn’t just a drink – it’s a ritual

Vietnamese coffee is strong, sweet, and served with purpose. Whether it’s egg coffee in Hanoi or coconut coffee in Saigon, sitting down for a cup is how people pause, socialize, or just watch the world buzz past. It’s not about caffeine – it’s about slowing down. Skip the chain cafés and pull up a stool at a street-side vendor. Bonus points if you order like a local: “cà phê sữa đá” (iced coffee with condensed milk).

Don’t underestimate the night market

By day, it’s just another quiet street. But after dark, Vietnam transforms. Night markets pop up in every town, selling everything from grilled corn and fish balls to phone chargers and knockoff sneakers. Go for the food, stay for the atmosphere. It’s where locals eat, hang out, and shop. Bring small bills, brush up on your bargaining game, and come hungry.

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