Vietnam

Vietnam offers an e-visa system for citizens of most countries, allowing stays of up to 90 days. The e-visa can be applied for online and typically takes 3 to 5 business days to process. Some nationalities are exempt from visa requirements for shorter stays. Always verify the latest entry requirements before your trip, as policies change frequently.

Vietnam uses the Vietnamese Dong (VND). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at hotels, upscale restaurants, and larger shops, but cash is essential for street food, local markets, and smaller establishments. US Dollars are occasionally accepted at hotels but Dong is preferred everywhere.

The best time depends on the region. For northern Vietnam including Hanoi, October to April offers pleasant weather. Central Vietnam around Hoi An and Hue is best from February to August. Southern Vietnam including Ho Chi Minh City is ideal from December to April during the dry season. Vietnam can be visited year-round, but plan around regional weather patterns for the best experience.

Vietnamese street food is generally safe and is one of the country's greatest attractions. Look for stalls with high turnover and lots of local customers, as this ensures fresh ingredients. Stick to food that is cooked to order and served hot. Pho, banh mi, bun cha, and fresh spring rolls are must-try dishes available on virtually every street corner.

Vietnam has excellent transportation options. Domestic flights connect major cities quickly and affordably. The Reunification Express train runs the length of the country from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. Grab, the Southeast Asian ride-hailing app, operates in all major cities. For intercity travel, reputable bus companies offer sleeper buses on popular routes. Motorbike taxis are ubiquitous for short trips.