Vietnam is one of the hottest travel destinations in Asia. More and more tourists come to Vietnam every year because of its peace, friendliness and fast development. Tourists can enjoy visiting peaceful traditional villages, grand temples and pagodas or sunbathing on beautiful beaches in luxury seaside resorts. grand hotels, big restaurants and luxury resorts .Before going to Vietnam you should do some searches for a general idea about prices in Vietnam. The Vietnamese currency is the Vietnam Dong ($1 = 17800 VND).
Going in a tour group arranged by a tourist agent is an interesting way to explore Vietnam. There are many famous tourism agents in Vietnam and most of them have their own websites.
Vietnamese food is very delicious and well known all over the world. It is really a memorable experience to taste Vietnamese food right in Vietnam.
WHAT TO WEAR
Throughout the year, it is advisable to wear summer clothing: thin clothes in light colour. In December and January, warm clothes are recommended for visits to the northern provinces.
It is advisable to bring umbrellas or raincoats in the rainy season from May to November in southern and northern Vietnam, from August to January in central Vietnam.
The wearing of suits for business is now common in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Dress should be respectable, especially if entering religious premises such as temples and pagodas.
SECURITY
In big cities, do not bring along valuables as going shopping or sightseeing in the street.
It is dispensable to give alms to beggars and to buy souvenirs from street vendors.
Foreign currencies should be exchanged at banks or authorized exchange bureaus. Do not exchange money in the street.
It is advisable not to ride on pedicabs or “honda-om” by oneself.
SHOPPING
The following items are preferred by foreign travellers:
- Carved wooden furniture, fine lacquerware (these can be shipped home on request).
- Traditional Vietnamese hand-made silk dresses, kimonos, embroideries, etc.
- Simulated antiques, fine ceramics, old watches or Zippo lighters, etc.
- Copies of famous paintings.
HEALTH
No vaccinations are presently required for visitors to enter Vietnam. However, it is advisable that precautionary measures be taken for cholera, malaria, hepatitis A & B, typhoid and tuberculosis.
Although international medical centres are available in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, it can be expensive for emergency care. Therefore, health and emergency medical insurance prior to visiting Vietnam is highly recommended for foreigners.
