Are you thinking about visiting Vietnam? Awesome choice. But it's good to know a few things before you go to any country and pack your bags there. In this article we are going to cover some facts and things u must know about Vietnam country
First off, When you're in Vietnam, the money you'll use is called the Vietnamese Dong, or VND for short. You'll see a lot of zeros on the banknotes, which might make you feel like a billionaire! For instance, one US dollar can be worth around 25,000 Dong – though this number can change a bit, so it’s good to check the latest rate. It might seem like a lot of numbers at first, but you'll get the hang of it. Just try not to accidentally offer a giant note for a small coffee, or you might end up with a mountain of change!
Now, how about saying hello? The main language spoken is Vietnamese. It’s a tonal language, which means the way you say a word, with a rising or falling tone, can change its meaning entirely. It’s a bit like singing your words! But don't you worry; in the bigger cities like the capital, Hanoi (which is up in the north and a really exciting place with old streets and amazing food!), and in areas popular with visitors, many people, especially the younger generation, speak some English. Learning just a couple of simple Vietnamese phrases will be a big hit. "Xin chào" (pronounced something like "seen chow") means "Hello," and "Cảm ơn" (like "gahm un") means "Thank you." A little effort goes a long way in making new friends!
Once you’re in Vietnam, a long, beautiful country stretching from north to south, you’ll want to explore! You'll see motorbikes, or scooters, absolutely everywhere – it’s like the national way to travel! Many visitors enjoy renting one, but if you do, please be incredibly careful. The traffic can be quite an experience, almost like a lively, real-life video game. If you’re not a seasoned motorbike rider, perhaps enjoy the ride as a passenger on a motorbike taxi, known as a "xe ôm" (pronounced "say ohm"). For longer journeys between cities, buses and trains are great options. Trains can offer a comfortable and scenic view of the countryside, while buses are often the most budget-friendly choice. In the cities, you'll find regular taxis, and ride-hailing apps like Grab (which is similar to Uber) are very popular and offer a straightforward way to get around and pay.
And now, for one of the best parts: the FOOD! Oh, Vietnamese food is just incredible – so fresh, bursting with flavor, and often quite healthy too. You absolutely have to try Phở (fuh), the famous noodle soup that’s a hug in a bowl. Then there's Bánh Mì (ban mee), a delicious Vietnamese sandwich served in a crispy baguette – a perfect on-the-go meal. Don't miss Gỏi Cuốn (goy coo-un), which are fresh, non-fried spring rolls packed with herbs and shrimp or pork. And you must try Cà Phê (ca fay), Vietnamese coffee! It’s strong, aromatic, and often served with sweet condensed milk, creating a truly unique taste. In Hanoi, be adventurous and try egg coffee – it sounds unusual, but it's a creamy delight! A lot of the most delicious food is found at street food stalls. Don't be afraid to try them; just pick places that look busy and clean, as that’s usually a good sign.
Vietnamese people are generally known for being very polite, kind, and welcoming. To be a good guest, it’s nice to keep a few simple cultural points in mind. When you visit temples or pagodas, it's respectful to dress modestly, meaning covering your shoulders and knees. The head is considered a special, sacred part of the body, so it’s best to avoid touching someone's head, even if it's a child you find adorable. When you give or receive something important, like money or a gift, it’s a polite gesture to use both hands, or at least your right hand supported by your left. And a little tip for meal times: try not to stick your chopsticks upright in your rice bowl, as this can resemble incense sticks used for funerals. Just rest them on the side of your bowl or on a chopstick rest. Most importantly, a genuine smile is a universal language and will always be appreciated!
Naturally, you'll want to stay safe and sound during your travels. Vietnam is generally a very safe country for tourists, which is wonderful. However, like in any place around the world, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye on your wallet, phone, and camera, especially when you’re in crowded markets or on busy streets. The traffic, as we mentioned, can be quite energetic, so always look carefully both ways (and then maybe a third time!) before crossing the street. A good tip is to watch how the locals do it – they navigate it like pros! For drinking water, it's best to stick to bottled water to avoid any potential tummy troubles. When you're shopping in markets, it's often acceptable to bargain a little for souvenirs or goods, but always do so with a smile and a friendly attitude. It’s all part of the fun, but be fair and don’t get upset if the seller doesn’t agree to your price.
Wondering when the best time to visit might be? Because Vietnam is so long, the weather can be quite different from the north to the south. In the North (where Hanoi and the stunning Halong Bay are), spring (around March to April) and autumn (September to November) often bring pleasant, mild temperatures. Winters can get a bit cool. In Central Vietnam (home to charming Hoi An and the historic city of Hue), the dry season typically runs from about January to August. The rainy season is often from September to December, and this area can sometimes experience storms. Down in the South (where you'll find bustling Ho Chi Minh City and the lush Mekong Delta), it’s generally warm all year round. The dry season is usually from November to April, and the rainy season is from May to October, though the rain often comes in short, refreshing downpours. So, no matter when you plan to go, there’s likely a part of Vietnam enjoying some lovely weather!
And speaking of places, there are so many incredible sights to see! In the north, besides the vibrant capital Hanoi with its fascinating Old Quarter and serene Hoan Kiem Lake, you have the breathtaking Halong Bay, where thousands of limestone islands dramatically rise from emerald waters – it truly looks like something from a legend. Further south, in Central Vietnam, the ancient trading port of Hoi An will capture your heart with its colorful lantern-lit streets and tailor shops. Not too far is Hue, the former imperial capital, rich in history. Then there’s Ho Chi Minh City (often still called Saigon by locals), a dynamic, high-energy city in the south, full of history, museums, and incredible food. From there, you can explore the Mekong Delta, a world of rivers, rice paddies, and floating markets that offers a glimpse into rural life. And if you love mountains and trekking, Sapa in the far north, with its stunning terraced rice fields and diverse ethnic minority cultures, is a must-see.
Now after seeing this you can decide to go travel in vietnam and enjoy
