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Vietnam

Vietnam

A slender nation of extraordinary contrasts

Vietnam is one of Asia's most captivating travel destinations — a long, narrow country where ancient history, dramatic natural landscapes, and extraordinary cuisine combine to create an unforgettable journey.

The classic north-to-south route reveals Vietnam's extraordinary diversity. Hanoi's atmospheric Old Quarter, with its narrow guild streets and centuries-old architecture, is unlike anywhere else in Southeast Asia. Ha Long Bay — with its 1,600 limestone islands rising from jade-green waters — is one of the natural wonders of the world.

Moving south, the historic trading town of Hoi An enchants with its lantern-lit streets, tailor shops, and outstanding cuisine. The imperial city of Hue offers crumbling citadels and royal tombs. And Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) pulses with extraordinary energy, street food culture, and a fascinating history that rewards curious travelers. Add to this the terraced rice fields of Sapa and the motorcycle-friendly Hai Van Pass, and Vietnam ranks among the world's greatest road trip destinations.

Ha Long Bay cruise — overnight on a traditional junk boat among 1,600 limestone karst islands

Quick Facts

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Capital

Hanoi

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Currency

Vietnamese Dong (VND)

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Language

Vietnamese

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Time Zone

ICT (UTC+7)

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Best Season

Feb–Apr (most of country dry)

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Visa

E-visa available (90 days)

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Driving Side

Right

Famous For

Pho, Banh Mi, Hoi An, Ha Long

Top Experiences

Arrive Hanoi — Old Quarter

Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport

Ha Long Bay Cruise

Morning transfer to Ha Long Bay port (3.5 hours)

Ha Long Bay — Return to Hanoi or Fly to Da Nang

Dawn tai chi on the boat deck

Hoi An Ancient Town

Morning walk through Hoi An Ancient Town's Japanese Bridge and merchant houses

Best Time to Visit

Autumn (Sep–Nov)

Cooler, clearer days, excellent for Hanoi, Halong Bay, and the central coast.

Summer (May–Aug)

Hot and humid with afternoon showers; great beach value in the south and center.

Winter (Dec–Jan)

Cool and sometimes misty in the north; warm and pleasant in the south.

A Sample 7-Day Itinerary

1

Arrival in Hanoi

Arrive in the capital and unwind in a colonial-era retreat, with a quiet evening stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake.

2

Hanoi Old Quarter

Navigate the Old Quarter's lanes with a private guide, then a curated street-food and water-puppet evening.

3

Halong Bay Cruise

Board a private cabin aboard a luxury junk, drifting past limestone karsts with sunset cocktails on deck.

4

Hoi An Arrival

Fly south to lantern-lit Hoi An and check into a riverside resort near the ancient town.

5

Hoi An Heritage & Tailoring

Explore the UNESCO old town, commission bespoke tailoring, and dine beneath glowing lanterns.

6

Imperial Hue or Coastal Calm

Choose a private excursion to imperial Hue's citadel, or a tranquil beach day along the central coast.

7

Departure

A final unhurried morning before your private transfer to the airport.

Travel Tips

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Motorbike Crossing

Vietnam is one of the world's best motorbike destinations. Renting a semi-automatic 110cc bike and riding the Ho Chi Minh Road or Hai Van Pass is transformative. Always wear a full-face helmet. An International Driving Permit is required.

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Eat Street Food

Vietnam's best meals cost under $3 and are eaten on plastic stools at street-side stalls. Follow the locals — a full stall with Vietnamese customers is always the right choice. Look for pho, bun bo, banh mi, and com tam (broken rice) everywhere.

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Cash is Essential

Many smaller restaurants, guesthouses, and transportation options are cash-only. ATMs are common in cities. Draw cash in urban areas before heading to rural destinations. The Vietnamese Dong has large denominations — keep small bills for motorbike taxis.

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Weather Varies by Region

Vietnam is long — weather differs dramatically by region. February–April is the best overall window when most of the country is dry. The south (HCMC, Mekong) is best November–April. The north (Hanoi, Ha Long) has a distinct cool winter and is best March–June and September–November.

Ready to Explore Vietnam?

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