Vietnam Travel Guide
Vietnam is a majestic country with diverse landscapes and an intriguing blend of cultures. Once a French colony, Vietnam has since become one of the fastest developing economies in the world. This has led to a surge in bustling megacities with chaotic streets and unique identities. French and Buddhist influences are still common, but metropolises like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have spent the past few decades really coming into their own.
Cities aside, Vietnam is a fantastic travel destination thanks to its natural wonders. From the terraced rice paddies of Sa Pa to the towering, limestone islands of Ha Long Bay, there are numerous exquisite sights waiting to be explored. Vietnam is perfect for adventurous hikers and road trippers looking to get lost in quaint villages and enchanting forests.
Another magnet for travel to Vietnam is the food. Vietnam has an amazing assortment of delicious dishes, such as pho, bun cha, and banh mi. Vietnamese coffee is also a deliciously sweet treat that you must try. And if that’s not enough, the fruits in Vietnam are like nothing you can find in the US.
Basic information
Language: Vietnamese is the official language of Vietnam.
Currency: The official currency is the Vietnamese dong (VND). 1 USD is equal to about 24,000 VND.
Plugs: The plugs in Vietnam are type A, C, and F, the standard voltage is 220 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. I recommend using a universal adapter and a converter for hairdryers and other hot products.
Safety: Vietnam is a safe country. But keep your wits about you in cities to avoid pickpocketing.
Destinations
The Best Time to Visit
Given that Vietnam is over 1,000 miles long, there is a wide range of climates in the country. North Vietnam is more temperate while South Vietnam experiences a more rainy and tropical climate. So it’s important to plan your trip at the right time to best accommodate your needs and travel goals.
North Vietnam, which includes Hanoi and Ha Long Bay, experiences relatively cold winters (as low as 39° F) from December to February. Summers are also pretty hot and humid with the rainy season lasting from May to September. So I recommend visiting during March or April when the weather is still dry and pleasantly hot.
Central Vietnam, which includes Hue and Hoi An, is a common target for typhoons during the wet season. This season generally runs from August to November. To get the perfect beach weather, aim for June or July.
South Vietnam, which includes Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, is warm throughout the year. But it gets unbearably hot from March to May (as high as 104° F). For those sensitive to heat, go between December and March when the weather is dry and comfortably warm.
