Vietnam

WELCOME TO THE VIETNAM TRAVEL GUIDE

Vietnam is a country that stirs all the senses—bustling cities filled with motorbikes and street food, emerald-green rice terraces carved into the mountains, quiet riverside villages, and coastlines that stretch for miles. It’s a destination where tradition and rapid development coexist, where you can sip strong coffee in a modern cafe one minute and be paddling through a floating market the next. Whether you’re craving culture, nature, history, or food, Vietnam offers a little bit of everything—and at a price that’s incredibly friendly for travelers.

What we loved most about Vietnam is how each region feels like a different world. The north, with its misty mountains and French-colonial influence, contrasts beautifully with the colorful lanterns and relaxed charm of central towns like Hoi An, and the tropical, beachy vibes in the south. And no matter where we went, the warmth and resilience of the Vietnamese people stayed with us. It’s a country that rewards slow travel and invites you to truly immerse yourself in the experience.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN VIETNAM

• Cruise through Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with dramatic limestone islands.

• Explore the Old Quarter of Hanoi, filled with street food, history, and nonstop energy.

• Visit Hoi An, a beautifully preserved trading port known for its lantern-lit nights and tailor shops.

• Trek through Sapa’s rice terraces, and stay with local hill tribes in homestays.

• Experience the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City, an eye-opening look into Vietnam War history.

• Relax on the beaches of Da Nang or Phu Quoc, with turquoise waters and soft sand.

• Take a boat ride through the Mekong Delta, passing floating markets and river villages.

• Try a street food tour, sampling bánh mì, phở, bun cha, and fresh spring rolls along the way.

TYPICAL COSTS WHEN TRAVELING

Accommodation – Vietnam is extremely affordable for all types of travelers. Hostel beds typically cost $5–$10 per night, while budget hotels and guesthouses range from $15–$30. Mid-range hotels or boutique stays often cost $40–$80, and even luxury resorts rarely exceed $150–$300 per night, especially outside major tourist hubs.

Food – Vietnamese food is famous for being both flavorful and affordable. A bowl of phở or a bánh mì sandwich from a street vendor usually costs $1–$2. Sit-down meals at local restaurants range from $3–$8, and even high-end dining experiences are often less than $25 per person. Street food is not only safe, but often the best-tasting option.

Transportation – Transportation in Vietnam is convenient and cheap. Local buses cost less than $1, and short taxi or Grab (ride-share) rides typically run $2–$5 in cities. Long-distance buses and trains between cities cost around $10–$25, while domestic flights (Vietnam Airlines, VietJet) are often between $30–$70. Motorbike rentals are popular and cost about $5–$10 per day.

Suggested daily budget –

• Budget traveler: $25–$40 (hostel, street food, buses or motorbike rental)
• Mid-range traveler: $50–$100 (hotel, restaurants, intercity transport)
• Luxury traveler: $150+ (resort, fine dining, guided tours and domestic flights)

MONEY SAVING TIPS

Eat like a local – Street food is cheap, safe, and often tastier than restaurants.
Book transport and tours locally – You’ll save money over online bookings or agencies.
Take overnight buses or trains – Save on accommodation while covering long distances.
Use Grab over taxis – It’s more affordable, convenient, and avoids price negotiations.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM VIETNAM?

Expect fast-paced cities, quiet countryside, and a culture rich with history and pride. Vietnam is a country of contrasts: chaotic traffic and serene temples, rugged mountains and tropical beaches, modern cafes and ancient traditions. The people are incredibly hospitable, curious, and often eager to share their stories or help you navigate.

English is spoken in most tourist areas, though learning a few Vietnamese phrases shows respect and will earn you smiles. Be prepared for varied weather depending on the region—cool in the north, tropical in the south, and wet seasons that shift by region. Public transport is reliable and improving, and it’s easy to get around once you adjust to the rhythm of the road.

Vietnam is not just a destination—it’s a full-on experience. From sunrise motorbike rides to late-night noodle stalls, it’s a place that pulls you in, fills you up, and leaves you wanting more.

“In Vietnam, every street is a story, every bite is an adventure, and every journey is a memory in the making.”

Mel