Travelling in Vietnam

Key info & facts

  • Capital: Hanoi

  • Official Language: Vietnamese

  • Population: Approximately 100 million (2023)

  • Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND, ₫)

  • Visa Requirements: Many nationalities need an e-visa. Check Vietnam e-Visa for details

  • Main Religion: Predominantly Buddhist, with Taoist, Confucian, and Christian minorities

  • Time Zone: GMT+7 (Indochina Time)

  • Electric Plug Types: Types A, C, and G (220V supply)

  • Driving: Drive on the right-hand side

  • Emergency Number: 113 (police), 114 (fire), 115 (ambulance)

  • Public Transport: Buses and taxis are common; ride-hailing apps like Grab are widely used

  • Administrative Regions: Divided into 58 provinces and 5 centrally controlled municipalities, including Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City

  • Dialling Code: +84

  • Water: Tap water is not safe to drink; bottled or filtered water is recommended

 

Ultimate Guide on Things to do & Places to Visit in Vietnam

  • Ha Long Bay, street food, lush rice terraces, and historic cities like Hanoi and Hoi An.

  • Southeast Asia, bordered by China, Laos, Cambodia, and the South China Sea.

  • Tet (Lunar New Year) is Vietnam’s most significant holiday; dates vary yearly.

  • Breakfast: 6:00–9:00 AM; Lunch: 11:00 AM–1:30 PM; Dinner: 6:00–9:00 PM.

  • Not mandatory but appreciated; round up taxi fares and leave 5% in restaurants.

  • Say “Xin chào” (hello). A slight bow or handshake is polite in formal settings.

  • Yes, cash is essential, especially in markets and rural areas. Cards are accepted in larger cities.

  • Lightweight clothing, rain gear/waterproof jacket, sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes.

  • Sundays are family-focused, with locals gathering for meals or visiting parks and pagodas.

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