Some links on this page are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you book through them. Thank you for supporting my blog!
Vietnam is hands down one of my favorite countries to visit. With amazing food, beautiful attractions, and some of the friendliest people I’ve met, this country will definitely have you wanting to come back (I know I do)! If you’re planning a trip soon, keep reading for some helpful info to know before you go!
1. Check for Visa Requirements
Before your trip, make sure to check if your nationality requires a visa to enter Vietnam. If you do, I highly recommend applying for an electronic visa as it makes the arrival process much faster and smoother. When I applied, it cost me 25 USD for a single entry, and I received my approval email within a week. It’s also helpful to print out a copy of your evisa just in case.
2. Cash is Still King (But ATMs Are Everywhere)
While some places accept cards, many local shops, food stalls, and attractions still take cash only — especially in markets and more traditional areas. The good news is, ATMs are easy to find throughout the country. When I stayed in the Old Quarter of Hanoi, I had no trouble finding one nearby whenever I needed cash.
3. Mastering the Art of Street Crossing in Vietnam
Crossing the streets in Vietnam can feel overwhelming at first (it definitely was for me on my first day). With a constant flow of motorbikes and cars, it might seem like no one ever stops for pedestrians. The trick is to walk at a steady, confident pace. Make eye contact or give a small wave so drivers know you’re crossing — they’ll naturally move around you as long as you keep your speed consistent. If you wait for the traffic to fully stop, you might be standing there all day. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll feel like a pro navigating the chaos. I personally felt like a local after a week of successful crossings.
4. Transportation Mode
During my entire trip, I personally used Grab, which works just like Uber, to get around — including rides to and from the airport and most attractions. Since Uber is not available in Vietnam, Grab is a great alternative. It’s cost friendly and super convenient. I did a bit of walking around the Old Quarter area since everything was close by, but Grab was my go to for anything outside that neighborhood.
5. Bring the Right Power Adapter
If you’re coming from the US, good news — Vietnam uses Type A plugs, which are the same as in America. They also use Type C and F plugs, which are common in Europe. To be safe, I recommend bringing a universal adapter so you are covered no matter where you stay.
6. Book a Tour
If it’s your first time visiting Vietnam or you’re solo traveling (like I was), I highly recommend joining a tour. It’s a great way to learn more about Vietnam’s rich history and culture from local guides. Plus, if you join a group tour, you might meet some amazing people from around the world — I definitely did. Here are two tours I joined and had a great experience with:
FindKristineAbroad 
Leave a comment