Vietnam: important information about the country

Vietnam is an amazing country that combines rich history, picturesque landscapes and developed tourist infrastructure. Vacation in Vietnam offers tourists the opportunity to get acquainted with unique sights, such as ancient temples, rice terraces, Halong Bay and French architecture of Hanoi. This Asian country will delight visitors with its diversity: you can enjoy the beaches on Phu Quoc Island, explore the lively streets of Ho Chi Minh City or immerse yourself in the atmosphere of traditional Vietnam in Hanoi.

It is also worth noting the resorts of Vietnam, which are famous for their picturesque nature and offer everything you need for a comfortable vacation. Beach lovers will appreciate the coasts of popular resorts such as Da Nang and Nha Trang. A trip to Vietnam will be an ideal choice for those looking for a combination of active vacations, cultural experiences and relaxing beach time.

Vietnam's visa regime allows citizens from Germany and some other European countries to travel without a visa for up to 45 days. For travelers from other countries that are allowed visa-free entry to Vietnam, other stays vary depending on nationality. It is also worth noting that if you are planning a longer stay in Vietnam, including for work or study purposes, you will need to obtain a visa in advance. You can find more information about Vietnam's visa rules for different countries on our Visa page.

On our website you will find useful and up-to-date information about Vietnam to perfectly plan your trip.

When planning a trip to Vietnam, it is necessary to take into account the climatic peculiarities of different regions of the country, as weather conditions can significantly affect the choice of time for vacation and sightseeing.

The climate of Vietnam is characterized by diversity due to its geographical length and location in the tropics. The country is divided into three climatic regions: northern, central and southern.

In the northern part, where Hanoi is located, there are four seasons, two of which are cool, dry winters (November through February) with temperatures ranging from +15 to +20 °C and hot, humid summers (May through August) with temperatures up to +35 °C. Whereas in spring and fall, the temperature stays at +20-25 °C, making it an ideal time for travel.

In the central part, including cities such as Da Nang and Hue, the rainiest months are from September to December, during which time heavy and prolonged downpours are possible. The best period for a vacation is from February to August, when the dry weather is ideal for a vacation and the temperature averages +30 °C.

Southern Vietnam, including Ho Chi Minh City and Phu Quoc Island, is characterized by two seasons: dry (November to April) and rainy (May to October). During the dry season, the weather in Phu Quoc resorts is optimal for beach vacations, with temperatures between +25 and +30 °C and virtually no rain. During the rainy season, there may be brief downpours, but they rarely interfere with vacationing.

The best time to travel to Vietnam will depend solely on the region and the type of vacation you plan to engage in.

Thus, for beach vacations in Fukuoka or Nha Trang, it is recommended to choose the dry season, and for cultural and natural attractions in northern and central Vietnam - spring or fall.

When traveling to Vietnam, it is important to take into account the local culture and traditions to ensure that interactions with residents are as respectful and comfortable as possible.

Vietnamese culture is based on the traditions of Confucianism and Buddhism, where respect for elders and harmony play a key role. Qualities such as modesty, respect and politeness are highly valued in the society. When communicating with locals, greetings are usually accompanied by a slight bow, which is an important element of Vietnamese traditions. It is worth keeping a distance, tactile gestures when greeting can be perceived as disrespectful.

Rituals and customs related to Buddhism and ancestors play an important role in Vietnamese culture and traditions. For example, when visiting pagodas and temples, it is important to behave discreetly, avoid loud talking, dress modestly and remove shoes before entering. Photography may be restricted at many temples, so check in advance to see if you can take photos.

There are many peculiarities in Vietnamese culture, which include eating. For example, if you use chopsticks during a meal, you should not leave them vertically in a bowl of rice - this symbolizes funeral rites. Sticks should be placed on the right side of the plate, preferably on a special stand. The chopsticks can also be placed on top of the bowl, but this gesture means that the meal is over. When eating, it is important to show gratitude to the hosts for the treat, which is an expression of respect for the local culture.

Regarding behavior in the country, respect for personal space is an important aspect. Physical contact, such as a pat on the back or a hug, is not a common practice among locals. Loud arguments and negative remarks should also be avoided, as losing face is a serious violation of cultural norms in Vietnam.

Understanding and respecting local culture and traditions will not only make your trip to Vietnam comfortable, but will also allow you to establish friendly relations with the residents, leaving you with a pleasant impression of the country.

The health care system in Vietnam has improved markedly in recent years, especially in major cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Both public and private medical facilities can be found here, offering a wide range of services. Public hospitals tend to have lower medical costs, but the quality of care can vary, especially in remote areas. Private hospitals, especially those with an international standard, provide a higher level of service, but treatment prices are much higher.

A wide range of medical services is available to tourists, especially in the larger tourist areas. However, it is worth bearing in mind that in smaller towns and islands such as Phu Quoc, medical infrastructure may be less developed. In emergencies, tourists can go to local hospitals, but for more complex medical procedures, it is recommended to visit major clinics in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.

Having health insurance when traveling to Vietnam is essential. It covers possible medical expenses, including hospitalization, medical evacuation and other unforeseen situations. Without insurance, the cost of treatment can be very high, especially in private clinics. When taking out international travel insurance, it is advisable to check in advance what medical cases their insurance policy covers, as well as to consider all possible risks.

Thus, due to the development of the tourism industry, the health care system in Vietnam is improving and is ready to provide quality assistance to foreign citizens, and the presence of insurance will help to cover the costs and ensure a calm and safe journey.

Vietnamese cuisine is a unique combination of simplicity and bright flavors. Most dishes are based on natural ingredients such as rice, noodles, herbs, spices, fish and seafood.

The most famous Vietnamese dish is Pho soup, a flavorful broth with rice noodles, beef or chicken served with herbs and spices. This traditional dish can be tasted at every turn, both in small street cafes and restaurants.

Pho Bo, one of the most popular types of Vietnamese pho soup made with beef, is a must-try. The broth is made with beef bones and spices such as cinnamon, cloves, ginger and anise are added to give it a rich and aromatic flavor. Rice noodles, thinly sliced beef and fresh herbs, usually onions, cilantro and mint, are also added to the soup.

Another culinary pride of the country is Banh mi - a sandwich, which adds meat, vegetables, pickled carrots and radishes, as well as various sauces. This dish combines French heritage with local traditions.

As for beverages, Vietnamese coffee deserves a special mention. Vietnam is the second largest coffee producer in the world, and the local coffee, often made with condensed milk, has become famous around the world. It is served both hot and cold and is also added to various desserts.

Another exotic drink is snake wine infused with rice alcohol. It is considered therapeutic and is used in folk medicine to improve health.

Speaking of alcoholic beverages, rice wine (Rượu gạo) is a common drink in Vietnam that is made by fermenting rice. It can be found in both traditional villages and modern restaurants. You can also try Bia Hoi, a Vietnamese draft beer, in Vietnam. Its alcohol content is usually lower than other beers, making it a great choice for hot weather. Bia Hoi is brewed daily, mostly in local small breweries, and is very popular among Vietnamese and tourists, especially in street cafes and bars.

Vietnamese cuisine is certainly part of the country's culture and lifestyle, with food and drink reflecting the rich history and diversity of regional traditions, from northern cold soups to spicy southern dishes.

Traveling to Vietnam can be an exciting experience for both family and solo travelers if you prepare in advance. Vietnam is a country with a rich culture, picturesque scenery and diverse cuisine, making it attractive to different types of travelers. First of all, it is worth studying information about the country in advance to determine the most interesting destinations and activities suitable for you.

For accommodation in Vietnam, it is recommended to choose hotels and guesthouses with good reviews and suitable conditions for rest. In major cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, various accommodation options are available: from budget hostels to more comfortable hotels with a high level of service. For example, many hotels offer family rooms with child-friendly amenities such as cribs and playgrounds.

For solo travelers, it's worth considering lodging options where you can also meet other travelers. Some establishments organize excursions and activities, which can be a great opportunity to socialize and learn about the culture.

It is also important to pay attention to the location of the accommodation. For example, hotels in the center of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City will provide easy access to major attractions, restaurants, and markets. This will make traveling easier and more comfortable. In addition, many hotels offer shuttle services and excursions, which is especially useful for families with children or first-time visitors to Vietnam.

As for leisure activities, Vietnam offers a variety of entertainment for all ages and preferences. Families can enjoy great beaches such as Phu Quoc and Nha Trang, which have excellent swimming and water sports facilities. In Nha Trang, in addition to beach vacations, you can visit the Vinpearl Water Park, which has attractions for children and adults, and relax in spas with traditional Vietnamese treatments.

Cultural attractions such as pagodas and markets also attract tourists. For example, Thang Long Pagoda in Hanoi and Tien Mu Pagoda in Hue offer unique opportunities to immerse yourself in local culture and history. Families can go on boat trips to scenic bays such as Halong Bay, where they can enjoy the beauty of nature and delicious local cuisine.

For solo travelers, Vietnam offers many sightseeing tours and city walks. Activities such as culinary tours and cultural shows allow you to learn about the local culture and traditions, as well as taste the local cuisine. These excursions make for great opportunities to meet other travelers and enrich the experience of the trip.

Vietnam is considered relatively safe for tourists, but general rules of caution should be observed, especially in major cities. It is advisable to avoid late-night strolls on crowded streets and keep a close eye on your belongings. It is always a good idea to carry medical insurance to be prepared for the unexpected.

Vietnam offers a rich cultural experience and a variety of activities for families and solo travelers, providing comfortable accommodation, exciting leisure activities and a high level of safety.

Shopping in Vietnam is an exciting experience that offers a variety of goods and unique souvenirs. In major cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, you can find many modern shopping centers and local markets.

Vietnamese markets, such as the famous Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City or Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi, are great places to find souvenirs, clothing and local specialties. Vietnamese markets offer a wide range of goods including textiles and handicrafts. These markets are a treasure for lovers of unique items and authentic shopping.

It is also worth checking out specialty stores that offer quality products from local artisans. These stores often offer higher quality than the markets, but prices can be higher.

Don't forget to bargain in the markets - it's part of the local culture. By immersing yourself in shopping in Vietnam, you'll not only find unique items, but you'll also enjoy interacting with the locals.

Vietnam offers a variety of unique products and delicacies that reflect the country's rich culture and traditions. Here are some of the most popular choices:

• Silk products. Vietnam is famous for its quality silk, which is used to make clothing, scarves and accessories. Silk products are often decorated with traditional patterns and make a great gift.
• Woodcarving. Local craftsmen create beautiful wooden figurines, furniture and decorative items. These pieces often depict animals, mythical creatures or scenes from everyday life.
• Ceramics. Vietnamese pottery, especially from the Bat Trang region, is known for its bright colors and intricate patterns.
• Incense. Vietnam is famous for its incense, which is made from natural ingredients. Their aroma creates an atmosphere of coziness and relaxation, which makes them a great gift for yourself or loved ones.
• Local Sweets. Sweets such as coconut candies and dried fruit are popular treats. They can be a great treat for friends and family.
• Traditional clothing. Ao dai is a traditional Vietnamese garment that is often given as a souvenir. It is not only beautiful but also symbolizes the country's culture.