Vietnam Travel Deals: A Travel Brief.
Find below some answers to some common questions about travel to Vietnam.
When is the best time to travel to Vietnam?
All year is fine! It is cool in Hanoi and North Vietnam in Dec through to Feb (17-20 degrees). It is always warm to hot in southern Vietnam and hot throughout the country (35 degrees) June to August.
Wet season for most of Vietnam is May – Oct but this doesn’t normally impact on travel and the country is arguably at its most beautiful at this time.
Cloudy skies and misty conditions usually prevail during the winter in the north.
Visitors should note that around Tet, the Vietnamese New Year celebration which falls in late January or early February, flights into, out of and around the country are likely to be booked solid, and accommodation can be almost impossible to find. We can help you find the best travel deals.
This is more than just a one day event so for at least a week before and two weeks after Tet you are likely to encounter some difficulties in booking hotels and flights.
How Safe is Travel to Vietnam?
Vietnam is a relatively safe country. Travellers to Ho Chi Minh City and to a lesser extent Hanoi should be conscious of pick-pocketing. There is no risk to travellers by land mines or other residue of war.
What Health Precautions or Issues Exist in Vietnam?
We strongly recommend clients consult their preferred doctor for the most up to date advice on the best health precautions.
Vietnamese Travel Visas
All travellers to Vietnam require a valid visa – tourist visas are of 1 month validity. Visas MUST be obtained in advance and cannot be issued on arrival. Your passport must have a minimum of 6 months validity.
What is the Local Currency?
The Vietnam Dong is local currency, although US Dollars are also accepted throughout – a mix of USD and travellers cheques is advised. Credit cards are accepted in cities, much less so in provinces, and often attract a service fee. Some banks in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have 24-hr ATM’s for credit card withdrawals.
Departure Tax From Vietnam
International is US$12 per person from Saigon, or US$14 from Hanoi. This is subject to change.
Vietnam Travel Deals: What to pack
As a general guide, comfortable casual and semi-casual clothes are best for day-time with smart casual clothes for evening wear. Clothing made of natural fibres is best in tropical and sub-tropical climates, and as with hats should provide adequate protection from the sun. Take shoes for walking which provide comfort and support and have a non-slip sole. Sandals are also advisable.
Getting To Vietnam
Thai International, Singapore Airlines and Cathay Pacific are among the main carriers into Vietnam, with arrivals in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Airfares are approx $1,599 low season. It is sometimes possible to obtain more favourable fares and better travel deals when purchasing in conjunction with land arrangements. Let us help.
