BEST VIETNAM SIGNATURE TRIPS

Where should I visit in Vietnam on my 1st-time tour routes?

If this is your first time travelling to Vietnam, stick to the classic destinations is the great option. Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Hoi An, Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh and Mekong Delta are the most popular places.

What language is spoken in Vietnam?

The official language of Vietnam is Vietnamese.

Is English spoken throughout Vietnam?

English is not spoken by many residents of Vietnam. However, in tourist areas, English will be understood in hotels and restaurants.

What currency is used in Vietnam?

The currency used throughout Vietnam is the Vietnamese dong. Mastercard and Visa are accepted in many hotels, restaurants and attractions in tourist areas. ATMs are readily available in most major centers.

Do I need a visa for Vietnam?

Most nationalities are required to obtain tourist visa in advance to travel to Vietnam. When obtaining your visa you should allow 3 weeks for processing with your nearest embassy or consulate, the cost is approximately US$60 to US$100. Please check with your embassy or consulate for further requirements. Some nationalities are exempt from visas for a stay of a maximum of 15 days, including British, German, French, Spanish and Italian citizens travelling to Vietnam (for all purposes). This exemption period is currently effective until 30 June 2021, and is based upon meeting all conditions prescribed by Vietnamese laws. If you are planning on staying in Vietnam for longer than 15 days you will need to obtain a visa extension in advance (please contact your relevant Consulate or Embassy). Please also check requirements if you plan to re-enter Vietnam. An eVisa is available for some nationalities including passport holders from Australia (from 2018), France, Ireland, Italy, Germany, Spain, the United Kingdom, Canada and the United States of America, valid for a single entry of a maximum of 30 days stay in Vietnam. For information on obtaining an eVisa visit the immigration website: https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/ Evisas take up to 3 days to be processed. You will need a clear electronic copy of your passport data page and passport photo, and to make a non-refundable payment as outlined on the immigration website. Keep the customs and immigration form you receive on arrival, as you need it to complete exit formalities on departure.

Is WiFi readily available?

Internet access and Wifi are easily accessible in city centers, but connections may be spotty or limited in remote areas.

Can I use my cell phone in Vietnam?

It is possible to purchase a SIM card once in Vietnam but phone usage may be limited in mountainous or rural areas.

Is tipping customary in Vietnam?

Tipping isn't mandatory or customary in Vietnam, but it is always appreciated. If you’re happy with the services provided by waiters, drivers and other service workers, leaving a small tip is a good way to show your appreciation. While it may not be customary to you, it’s of great significance to the people who take care of you during your travels. Tipping also encourages excellent service in the future and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many Intrepid destinations. Carrying small notes of local currency will make tipping easier. It is best to avoid tipping with coins, very small denomination notes, or dirty and ripped notes, as this can be regarded as an insult. Participate in a tipping kitty. Your local leader may discuss the idea of running a group tipping kitty on the first day of your trip. In a group tipping kitty, everybody contributes an equal amount at the start of the tour that your leader uses to tip drivers, local guides and hotel staff on your behalf. The leader will keep a running record of all monies spent, which can be checked at any time. Any money remaining at the end of the tour is returned to group members. This is often the easiest way to avoid the hassle of needing small change and knowing when and what is an appropriate amount to tip. Participation in this kitty is optional, and you are welcome to manage your own tipping separately if you prefer. Please note the tipping kitty excludes tips for your tour leader. Tipping your local leader or tour guide in Vietnam You may also consider tipping your tour leader for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however US$2-US$4 per person, per day is a commonly used guideline. Of course, you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.

What are the toilets like in Vietnam?

You'll have to adjust to different standards of hygiene and sanitation while in Vietnam. The standard toilet is of the squat variety, and this may take some getting used to, although western-style toilets can be found in large hotels and some tourist areas.

Can I drink the water in Vietnam?

Drinking tap water generally isn’t recommended in Vietnam. Water contaminated with pathogenic organisms is a major source of sickness and can lead to traveller’s experiencing diarrhoea, gastroenteritis, typhoid, cholera, giardia, dysentery and hepatitis A. It’s also advisable to avoid raw vegetables, fruits with edible skins and drinks with ice. Opt for cooked foods and fruits that need to be peeled instead. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Bring a reusable bottle or canteen (we recommend at least a 1.5 litre capacity) that can be refilled as needed. Some hotels we stay in may have drinking water available. Your leader can tell you where to find filtered water or you can bring purification tables. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found; some hotels we stay in may have drinking water available. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling in Vietnam?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

What is ATM access like in Vietnam?

ATMs are found widely throughout Vietnam, so withdrawing cash shouldn't be problematic in most areas. Some smaller villages and rural areas may not have ATM access, so prepare for this before venturing too far from a city or major town.

What are transportation options in Vietnam?

There are many ways to get around in Vietnam. Domestic flights within the country can allow quick and convenient travel between the north and south parts of the country. Trains or hired drivers are also available to visit smaller towns or villages. Bicycle rentals are also available to get around city and town areas.

Is Vietnam a family-friendly destination?

There are many activities and places to visit in Vietnam that the whole family can enjoy! Some of these are exploring Ho Chi Minh City, venturing through the Cu Chi Tunnels or cruising along the floating markets of Cai Rang and Cai Be in the Mekong Delta.

Should I travel to North, Central or South Vietnam?

The best time to visit North Vietnam is between August and December when the temperature is not too humid and not yet cold. Northern Vietnam is where the popular signature dish Pho originates from and where you will find the county’s capital city, Hanoi. Other areas that are worth visiting are Halong Bay and Sapa. Central Vietnam has some amazing beaches which can be found in Da Nang. Hue, which used to be the capital of Vietnam, and Hoi An are rich in history. The best time to visit South Vietnam is between December and April to avoid the rainy season. Cuisine in this area is influenced by Cambodia and Thailand. The south part of the country is also more open-minded, friendly and energetic than central or north Vietnam. Some noteworthy places to visit in the south are Ho Chi Minh City, Da Lat and Nha Trang.

Is Vietnam a LGBTQI-friendly destination?

The LGBQTI community is gradually gaining recognition in Vietnam, with gay pride parades becoming a regular occurrence and a lift on same-sex marriage bans in 2015. With that said, Vietnam is still a conservative culture and many still hide their sexuality from their families. Ho CHi Minh City and Hanoi have some gay-friendly bars and events. It is generally recommended that both gay and straight couples resist showing public displays of affection.

What are the best things to eat in Vietnam?

Traditional Vietnamese food is typified by its use of fresh herbs and vegetables and its wide regional variance. Vietnamese food is influenced by its Chinese and Khmer neighbors and echoes of French colonization. Some of the best things to eat in Vietnam are noodle soups (pho, bun mam, bun bo hue), bread rolls (banh mi), savoury pancakes (banh xeo) and fresh tropical fruits.

What are the best things to drink in Vietnam?

Our list of best things to drink in Vietnam includes ice coffee, fruit smoothies, fresh coconut juice straight from a freshly cracked green coconut, sugar cane juice, local beers and artisan rice wine.