A Vietnam Travel Blog.
Day 1 and 2 Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam.
At Love4Travel, we embarked on a two-day adventure in Saigon, packed with history, culture, and exploration. After a smooth half-hour transfer from Ho Chi Minh Airport, (using GRAB taxi service which we found brilliant and used everywhere – just down-load the Ap) we arrived at the iconic Caravelle Hotel, a perfect blend of modern luxury and historical charm. This elegant hotel provided us with a comfortable and centrally located base for our explorations (we upgraded to a Signature room). One of its standout features was the famous Correspondents’ Bar, where journalists once gathered during the Vietnam War. Sitting there, surrounded by echoes of history and amazing views, was the perfect way to immerse ourselves in the spirit of the city right from the start.
For those so inclined, the hotel gym while compact, was well-equipped to meet most workout needs, with cardio machines, free weights, and strength-training/free weight options.
Our journey began early the next morning with a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels. We came prepared with comfortable gear and insect repellent to handle the jungle environment. Exploring the tunnels was a fascinating experience—learning about their use during the Vietnam War, seeing the ingenious booby traps, and even crawling through the tunnels ourselves for a deeper understanding of history.
Later in the morning, we delved into the city’s rich history. At the Reunification Palace, we wandered through its storied halls, reflecting on the pivotal events that marked the end of the Vietnam War. Next was a city tour bus, with a stop at the War Remnants Museum offered a sobering look at the broader impact of the war, with its powerful displays of photographs, artifacts, and military vehicles. Then onto the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, admiring the stunning French colonial architecture and learning the stories behind these iconic buildings.
The afternoon brought a more relaxed pace as we enjoyed a dinner cruise on the Saigon River. Watching the city’s skyline transform under the setting sun with landmarks like the Bitexco Financial Tower and Vincom Landmark 81 lighting up the night. The serene ambiance, combined with a mix of local and international cuisine, provided a perfect end to the day.
As the city came alive at night, we explored Nguyen Hue Walking Street (there were some great bands playing here). The water fountain show was a highlight, adding a magical touch to the vibrant energy of the area. Strolling along the bustling street, we tried street foods, soaked in the lively atmosphere, and discovered some of the best Banh Mi in the city.
On the second day, we dove into Saigon’s shopping scene, starting with the iconic Ben Thanh Market. Navigating its maze of stalls, we found unique souvenirs, from lacquerware to traditional clothing, and sampled delicious street food. Next, we headed to Binh Tay Market in Chinatown for a less touristy experience, with spices, teas, and traditional Chinese goods.
For a touch of fashion, we visited An Dong Market, full of beautiful ao dai fabrics and handcrafted items. Then, we explored modern shopping venues like Vincom Center (for luxury brands) and Diamond Plaza (for a mix of retail and entertainment). At Saigon Square, we put our bargaining skills to the test with the locals – they won! There’s fantastic deals on clothing and accessories here.
As the day turned to evening, we strolled along Dong Khoi Street, uncovering bespoke shops and unique items. Our exploration ended at the Nguyen Trai night market, where the lively atmosphere and quirky finds under the streetlights left a lasting impression.
Days 3 and 4: Arrival in Paradise and Beach Bliss
Our third day began with a seamless transfer from the Caravelle Hotel to the airport for our short flight to Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s island gem. Upon landing, a quick 20-minute transfer brought us to the Best Western Sonasea Phu Quoc, a haven of tranquility with modern amenities and lush surroundings.
A nice hotel with friendly staff, spacious rooms, and a layout that perfectly blended luxury and comfort. We spent the afternoon exploring the property, enjoying the serene lagoon pool that stretched impressively through the resort. Again there is a decent but small gym where you can get most of your indoor training done.
As evening approached, we made our way to the rooftop bar, where we were treated to panoramic views of the island. Sipping on expertly crafted cocktails while watching the sun dip below the horizon was the perfect way to unwind after a day of travel.
The next morning, we enjoyed a great breakfast buffet at the hotel’s restaurant, which featured a variety of fresh and flavorful options. From traditional Vietnamese dishes to international favorites, there was something for every taste and then made our way to the hotel’s pristine sandy beach, where we dedicated the day to relaxation, enjoying some lovely sunshine and enjoying the natural beauty of Phu Quoc.
The beach offered more than just picturesque views. We tried stand-up paddleboarding, enjoying the challenge and serenity of gliding across the calm waves. For those seeking more excitement, the beach also featured a variety of motorised watersports, including jet skiing and banana boat rides, providing an adventurous edge to the day.
The soft white sands and turquoise waters created the perfect backdrop for unwinding and soaking in the laid-back island vibe.
As the evening approached, we ventured just outside the hotel, immediately opposite is the night market. Vibrant stalls offered everything from fresh produce to souvenirs, and we couldn’t resist picking up a few bargain-priced sports tops. The lively atmosphere, filled with locals and tourists alike, added to the charm of the experience.
For dinner, we chose a pop-up style street restaurant that had been drawing a steady crowd. The king prawns were the undeniable highlight—fresh, succulent, and perfectly cooked. Every dish was a delight, showcasing the best of local flavors. The staff were incredibly welcoming, and the bill, which included drinks for both of us, was astonishingly low at just £17.80. It was a true hidden gem and the perfect way to round off an incredible day on Phu Quoc.
Day 4: Relaxation at Khem Beach
On our fourth day, we decided to explore Khem Beach, located in the southeast of Phu Quoc. A quick 25-minute ride in a Grab cab from our hotel brought us to this stunning spot. The moment we arrived, we were captivated by the beach’s beauty—soft, powdery white sand framed by swaying palm trees and the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand.
We spent the afternoon unwinding at the Kaisupi Beach Bar, a charming spot that offered not only fantastic food and drinks but also an incredible setup for beach relaxation. Their large, cushioned beach beds were perfect for sinking into, cocktail in hand, as the gentle sound of the waves provided a soothing soundtrack. As the sun began to set, the bar’s mixologists served up some of the best cocktails we’d had on the island, enhancing the magical ambiance.
Adding to the allure of Khem Beach were the stunning French colonial-style buildings dotted along the backdrop, blending seamlessly with the natural beauty of the palm-lined shores. It was a perfect combination of luxury, history, and tropical charm, making it one of our favourite spots on the island but there are several great beach-bars/beds to choose from here.
After a long day of relaxation and exploration, we returned to the hotel and decided to keep things simple with an early night.
Day 5: Rustic Charm at Sao Beach
On our fifth day, we ventured slightly north of Khem Beach to Sao Beach, a lesser-known gem on Phu Quoc’s southeastern coast. The short journey brought us to a stretch of sand that felt like stepping into a quieter, more rustic paradise.
Sao Beach offered a different kind of beauty compared to Khem Beach. Its unpolished, natural charm made it feel wonderfully tranquil, with soft white sand bordered by towering palm trees that swayed gently in the breeze. The beach was less developed, which added to its laid-back, almost nostalgic atmosphere.
We rented a couple of sun loungers for the day at an impressively low price and settled in for a relaxing experience. The lack of crowds and the simplicity of the surroundings made it easy to disconnect from the world and fully appreciate the serene environment.
The vibe was distinctly backpacker-oriented, with small, local vendors providing basic food and drink options. While the selection was modest, the authenticity and friendliness of the staff added to the charm. The rustic appeal of Sao Beach lay in its quiet simplicity—no frills, just the natural beauty of the sand, sea, and sky.
Although there wasn’t as much to do compared to Khem Beach, the tranquil setting and stunning palm-lined backdrop made Sao Beach a unique highlight of our trip. It was the perfect place to pause, soak in the scenery, and enjoy a day of pure relaxation on the island, there are a few shops here, rustic beach bars etc so you won’t be left needing anything.
Day 6: An Thoi Harbor and the Thrill of the Cable Car
Our sixth day began with another lovely buffet breakfast at our hotel. Alongside the variety of fresh tropical fruits, pastries, and international dishes, we couldn’t resist indulging in Vietnam’s famous iced coffee. The rich, sweet, and creamy blend of robust coffee and condensed milk was the perfect energizer to start the day.
After breakfast, we headed south to explore An Thoi Harbor, a bustling and picturesque area that serves as the gateway to many of Phu Quoc’s southern islands. The harbor was alive with activity—fishing boats painted in bright colors bobbed in the water, while vendors sold fresh seafood and souvenirs along the streets.
Nearby, the An Thoi area has become a hub for tourists thanks to its star attraction: the Phu Quoc Cable Car. Boasting the title of the world’s longest non-stop three-rope cable car, it stretches an incredible 7.9 kilometers (about 5 miles) from the mainland to Hon Thom (Pineapple Island). The cable car ride offers breathtaking panoramic views of the turquoise waters below and the small islets scattered across the Gulf of Thailand.
As we ascended, you can’t help but marvel at the engineering feat that allowed this structure to span such a great distance. The journey takes about 15 minutes one way, gliding over Hon Dua (Coconut Island) and Hon Roi (Lamp Island) before arriving at Hon Thom. Along the way, we could see tiny fishing boats again dotting the waters and coral reefs shimmering beneath the surface—a photographer’s dream.
At the end of the ride, we arrived at Sun World Hon Thom Nature Park, a vibrant theme park and entertainment complex on Pineapple Island. The park offered a mix of activities for all ages, from thrilling water slides to pristine beaches with crystal-clear water for snorkeling and swimming. For those seeking relaxation, there were shaded hammocks and loungers to enjoy the island’s natural beauty.
After exploring the park and taking full advantage of its activities, including an amazing roller-coaster we made our way back on the return cable car ride. The views during sunset were even more mesmerizing, with the sky painted in hues of orange and pink, making it a highlight of the day.
Back at the harbor, we decided to cap off the day with a special evening. We found a waterfront spot for dinner, where we enjoyed a feast of freshly grilled seafood, including giant prawns, crispy soft-shell crab, and perfectly seasoned squid. The local flavors paired with the harbor’s lively atmosphere made it a meal to remember.
As darkness fell, the real spectacle began. We secured seats with a great view of the harbor’s famed water show, a stunning display of illuminated fountains dancing in sync to music. The colorful lights and graceful movement of the water were mesmerizing, creating a magical ambiance.
The night ended with a dazzling fireworks display, lighting up the sky over the harbor. The vibrant explosions of color reflected on the water, providing a perfect finale to a day packed with adventure and relaxation. With the sound of cheers and applause still ringing in our ears, we returned to the hotel feeling exhilarated and grateful for such an unforgettable
Day 7: Starfish Beach Adventure
On our seventh day, we decided to shake up our routine, skipping breakfast in favor of an early start to explore one of Phu Quoc’s most famous natural attractions: Starfish Beach. Known for its crystal-clear waters and the vibrant red starfish that dot the shallow shoreline, this idyllic spot promised a unique blend of relaxation and adventure.
A quick ride in a Grab cab brought us to the northeastern side of the island, where Starfish Beach awaited. The journey itself was scenic, taking us through lush greenery and quaint villages that gave us a glimpse of the island’s quieter side. Upon arrival, we were greeted by a postcard-perfect view: powdery white sand, calm turquoise waters, and a peaceful atmosphere far removed from the busier tourist areas.
We couldn’t resist wading into the shallow waters, where the beach gets its name. Dozens of bright orange-red starfish rested on the sandy floor beneath the gentle waves. While it was tempting to pick them up for closer inspection, we adhered to the local guidelines of observing them in their natural habitat without disturbing them—a crucial part of preserving this fragile ecosystem.
Our adventure continued with a boat ride arranged through a local operator on the beach. The small vessel took us out to a nearby reef where we had the opportunity to snorkel. The underwater world was teeming with life, from colorful corals to schools of vibrant fish darting through the water. The visibility was excellent, and the experience felt like swimming in an aquarium.
After working up an appetite, we returned to shore for lunch at a charming seaside eatery. The menu featured the freshest seafood we’d tasted yet, including grilled snapper, garlic butter shrimp, and a delicious local specialty—fried squid with tamarind sauce. Paired with ice-cold coconut water and the view of the calm ocean, it was a meal to savor.
The rest of the afternoon was spent relaxing on the beach’s simple wooden loungers, shaded by palm trees swaying in the gentle breeze. Starfish Beach’s tranquil charm made it easy to lose track of time, and we found ourselves lingering longer than planned, soaking in the serenity.
As the day came to a close, we reluctantly made our way back to the hotel. Starfish Beach offered a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, leaving us with memories of vibrant marine life, stunning scenery, and the quiet magic of Phu Quoc’s unspoiled north
Day 8: A Day of Work by the Beach
After several days of adventure and exploration, we decided to dedicate Day 8 to catching up on work while taking full advantage of our stunning surroundings. With our laptops in tow, we set up at the hotel’s beautiful beach bar, choosing a shady spot with a clear view of the sparkling turquoise waters and soft white sand.
The sound of gentle waves provided the perfect backdrop as we dived into updating our travel blogs and responding to customer inquiries. It felt surreal to be handling emails and scheduling posts while barefoot on the beach, a refreshing breeze keeping us cool. The peaceful environment and the sense of freedom it brought made us wish we could work like this every day—a perfect blend of productivity and paradise.
It’s funny how much more enjoyable work can be when surrounded by natural beauty. Between tasks, we took short breaks to stroll along the shore, dip our feet in the warm water, and even grab a quick snack from the beach bar. You feel very safe here which is a great pro when travelling somewhere new.
By the end of the day, we had made significant progress on our work and felt a deep appreciation for the flexibility that allowed us to combine business with this breathtaking lifestyle. It was a reminder of why we chose to travel in the first place—finding the balance between responsibilities and living life to the fullest.
As the sun dipped low on the horizon, painting another fabulous sun-set, we wrapped up our work session feeling accomplished and incredibly grateful for the day. Working from a beach in Phu Quoc was an experience we’d long dreamed of, and it lived up to every expectation.After a productive day, we decided to treat ourselves to a relaxed evening exploring the vibrant night market directly across from our hotel. The bustling stalls were alive with the aroma of sizzling dishes, laughter, and chatter as locals and tourists alike gathered to enjoy the best of Phu Quoc’s street food scene.
Our attention was immediately drawn to a vendor grilling supersized king prawns. These prawns were enormous, glistening with a perfect char from the grill and brushed with a mouthwatering garlic butter glaze. We couldn’t resist ordering a portion, and watching the vendor skillfully prepare them right before our eyes added to the experience. When served, they were absolutely stunning—succulent, smoky, and bursting with flavor.
As we enjoyed our prawns, another vendor approached with something truly unique: Cobra wine—a traditional Vietnamese liquor infused with a real cobra preserved in the bottle. The drink is said to have medicinal properties, but we politely declined the offer, finding the idea a bit too adventurous for our tastes! Instead, we opted for a few bottles of the local beer, which was delightfully refreshing and cost only 75 pence per bottle—an absolute steal.
You can bring your own drinks to the night market eateries if you want to and all can be purchased within a few strides for reasonably cost.
The atmosphere at the market was lively and welcoming, with vendors enthusiastically sharing their specialties, calling you in to eat and locals mingling freely with visitors. After our meal, we took a stroll through the market, soaking in the sights and sounds while nibbling on small snacks and treats from other stalls.
This simple yet satisfying evening was a perfect way to unwind after a day of work and reminded us of why we love traveling.
Day 9: Pearls, Rooftop Views, and Market Delights
We began Day 9 with breakfast at the hotel before setting off for a visit to one of Phu Quoc’s famed pearl factories. Initially, we weren’t sure what to expect, but we felt it was important to include this stop in our itinerary to report back on as much as possible. To our surprise, the experience turned out to be both fascinating and enjoyable.
The factory tour offered insights into the pearl cultivation process, from the careful seeding of oysters to the harvesting and crafting of these beautiful gems. We learned about the different types of pearls, their grading, and how to identify genuine ones. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, making it an unexpectedly engaging and informative outing.
From there, we headed into Phu Quoc town, the island’s bustling capital. Our first stop was an amazing rooftop bar we stumbled upon, offering panoramic views of the town, including the stunning illuminated bridge that connects Phu Quoc’s main island to smaller islets nearby. The view at sunset was lovely, with the vibrant lights of the bridge reflecting on the water, and the lively market below adding to the ambiance.
After soaking in the scenery and enjoying a drink, we made our way to the nearby night market, a hotspot for fresh seafood lovers. The market was a feast for the senses, with rows of restaurants and stalls showcasing an incredible variety of fresh catches. We indulged in a seafood feast, featuring lobster grilled to perfection alongside prawns, clams, and squid, all at remarkably affordable prices. The quality of the food was outstanding, and the lively market atmosphere made it a dining experience to remember.
To wrap up the evening, we wandered to the far end of the market, there’s a great little cocktail spot here, Bar 101. This hidden gem had a cozy and relaxed vibe, offering creative cocktails and the most amazing and friendly service. It was the perfect place for a nightcap and a game of Jenga (I won) as we reflected on the new memories made.
Day 9 turned out to be a wonderful mix of learning, indulgence, and discovery, showcasing yet another side of Phu Quoc’s diverse charm.
Day 10: A Farewell to Phu Quoc
Our final day on Phu Quoc was a blend of exploration, reflection, and taking in the last of the island’s magic. Since this trip was both a working fact-finding mission and a getaway, we wanted to wrap things up by ensuring we’d experienced as much as possible. Our company, Love4Travel, thrives on curating unforgettable trips for our clients, and this research had given us a deep appreciation for everything Phu Quoc has to offer.
We started the day exploring the island’s vibrant markets and shopping areas, determined to get a feel for the local retail scene. These markets were alive with energy, full of bustling stalls selling everything from traditional souvenirs to modern branded goods. The prices were almost too good to be true—branded clothing, shoes, and accessories for a fraction of what you’d pay elsewhere. The vendors assured us the items were genuine, though we decided to leave the bargains for others to snap up. Despite not buying anything, we enjoyed the lively atmosphere and the chance to observe local and tourist interactions. It was an experience that highlighted the island’s unique character and gave us plenty of insight to share with future travelers.
It wouldn’t be right to leave without enjoying a little more beach time for a few hours of relaxation. Sitting on the soft sand with a refreshing drink in hand, we took the time to reflect on our trip. The beach was as stunning as ever, the water amazing lapping at the shore and the palm trees swaying gently in the breeze. Watching the waves roll in and out, we realized how much we’d come to appreciate the tranquility of this island.
As the day moved into evening, we made our way to the beach for one final sunset. Phu Quoc had a way of making each sunset feel unique, and this one was no exception. The sky came alive with shades of orange, pink, and purple, painting the water and sand in soft, warm light. It was a bittersweet moment—saying goodbye to such a beautiful place while feeling incredibly grateful for all the memories we’d made.
For our last dinner, we chose the Pho Quoc Sailing Club, an amazing location on the water, quite sophisticated and absolutely buzzing – what a great last night.
After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll along the water’s edge, letting the gentle waves wash over our feet. The sound of the ocean and the soft night breeze made it hard to believe our time on Phu Quoc was coming to an end. It had been a remarkable trip, filled with stunning landscapes, fascinating discoveries, and moments of pure relaxation.
As we packed our bags later that evening, we couldn’t help but feel happy with how much we’d achieved. Not only had we fallen in love with Phu Quoc’s charm, but we’d also gathered invaluable knowledge to share with our Love4Travel community. This island had exceeded every expectation and offered an incredible mix of experiences—from its vibrant markets and pristine beaches to its warm, welcoming people. Everywhere we went felt safe and the whole island, so easy to navigate.
Day 11: Back to Ho Chi Minh City
After enjoying our final breakfast at the hotel in Phu Quoc, accompanied by what had become our go-to Vietnamese iced coffee, we packed up for the next leg of our journey. It was hard to say goodbye to the island, but we were excited to return to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). A quick Grab cab ride took us to the airport, where we boarded our Vietnam Airlines flight. The journey was smooth and efficient, and we were soon back in the bustling energy of Vietnam’s largest city.
On arrival, we checked into the Myst Dong Khoi, a truly fabulous and unique boutique hotel. From the moment we stepped in, the hotel’s charm and creativity were on full display. The design combined contemporary luxury with nostalgic nods to old Saigon. Each room featured quirky touches like vintage-inspired furnishings, wooden bathtubs, and lush greenery, giving it a warm and personal feel. The rooftop pool and spa added an extra layer of indulgence, and the friendly staff made us feel at home from the moment we arrived. If you’re looking for a hotel that’s a little out of the ordinary, the Myst Dong Khoi is a great choice.
After settling in, we were treated to a complimentary high tea in the lounge. It was a lovely way to unwind after the flight, with an assortment of sweet and savory bites paired with fragrant local teas. As the evening approached, we decided to make the most of the city’s iconic skyline and headed to the rooftop bar at the Majestic Hotel. From this vantage point, we enjoyed breathtaking views of the Saigon River as the sun set. The ambiance was classic and elegant, with live music adding to the relaxed yet sophisticated vibe.
Returning to our hotel, we opted for an early night. We had emails to catch up on, and the cozy setting of our room made it easy to get into work mode. It was the perfect mix of productivity and comfort, wrapping up a day that blended travel, exploration, and a touch of luxury.
Our next day began with what had become a delightful routine—a generous buffet breakfast at our hotel. The spread at the Myst Dong Khoi didn’t disappoint, offering everything from fresh tropical fruits and pastries to local Vietnamese delicacies, salmon, sushi and caviar.
Later in the morning, we ventured to one of Ho Chi Minh City’s upmarket shopping malls. The experience was a stark contrast to the lively, bustling markets we had explored earlier in the trip. These malls were sleek and modern, housing top-tier brands like Armani, Louis Vuitton, and Zegna. While we mostly indulged in window shopping, it was fascinating to see the high-end retail culture thriving in such a dynamic city.
The rest of the day was dedicated to work and reflection. Back at the hotel, we set ourselves up in the cozy sky lounge and began checking and rewriting our travel blog entries. It felt rewarding to revisit our journey through our writing, capturing the essence of each destination and refining the details. We also handled other work tasks, ensuring we stayed on top of customer inquiries and planning for future trips.
As we reviewed our blog, we decided that once we returned home, we would include a comprehensive list of do’s, don’ts, and travel tips for visiting Vietnam. From navigating the markets to choosing the best spots for sunset views, we had gathered a wealth of insights that we knew would be invaluable to our Love4Travel community.
Though the day was quieter compared to our usual adventures, it felt productive and meaningful—a perfect balance of work and leisure as our time in Vietnam began to wind down.
Day 12: A Blend of Luxury and Productivity
Again after a generous buffet breakfast at our hotel we decided to enjoy the roof top pool and lazily take in some more sun-shine in this lovely surrounding – it was great to be able to get some shade, do a little work and get some sun all in the same space.
Though the day was quieter compared to our usual adventures, it felt productive and meaningful—a perfect balance of work and leisure as our time in Vietnam began to wind down.
Day 13: Farewell to Vietnam
With heavy hearts, we packed our bags on our final morning in Vietnam. sad to leave behind the vibrant cities, stunning beaches, and unforgettable experiences, but we knew the memories we’d made would last a lifetime. After a quick coffee and a final check to ensure nothing was left behind, we made our way to the airport.
For our long journey home, we were fortunate to be flying with Qatar Airways, an airline that has consistently earned its reputation as one of the best in the world. From the moment we boarded, the service was impeccable, the seats were comfortable, and the in-flight entertainment offered a welcome distraction for the hours ahead. Knowing we were in good hands made the thought of a long-haul flight much easier to handle.
Touching down back home the following day, reality began to set in. The warmth of Vietnam and the adventures we’d shared seemed a world away as we stepped into the familiar chill of home. There wasn’t much left to do but unpack and start to plan our next adventure. The jet lag wasn’t too bad considering the time difference —a small price to pay for the incredible journey we’d just completed.
Vietnam had been everything we’d hoped for and more, and we we’re excited to share every detail with our Love4Travel community. It was a trip that left us inspired, enriched, and already dreaming of our next adventure.
Traveler’s Tips for Vietnam
1. Pack Light, but Smart
Vietnam has a tropical climate, so lightweight and breathable clothing is essential.
Bring sturdy walking shoes for urban explorations and flip-flops or water shoes for the beach.
Don’t forget a rain jacket or travel umbrella—sudden downpours are common.
2. Embrace the Local Cuisine
Venture beyond touristy restaurants to sample authentic street food. Dishes like pho, banh mi, and bun cha are must-tries.
Look for stalls that are busy with locals—it’s often a sign of quality and freshness.
Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water, even for brushing your teeth.
3. Learn the Basics of Bargaining
Bargaining is expected in most markets, but always keep it friendly and respectful.
Start by offering a third of the quoted price and negotiate from there.
Be prepared to walk away—this often leads to better deals.
4. Stay Connected
A local SIM card is inexpensive and makes navigating, booking rides, and staying connected much easier most restaurants, shopping malls and bars have wi-fi that you can log into also.
Apps like Grab are essential for reliable and affordable transportation.
5. Respect Local Customs
Dress modestly when visiting temples and pagodas. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or certain sacred spaces.
Greet with a slight bow and clasped hands as a sign of respect, especially in formal or religious settings.
6. Be Mindful of Scams
Beware of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or tours.
Always agree on a price before taking a ride in a cyclo (bike taxi) or motorbike taxi.
Check your change carefully, especially in crowded tourist areas.
7. Navigate Currency Like a Pro
Vietnam uses the Vietnamese Dong (VND), and cash is king in most places.
Carry small denominations for street vendors and local markets, as they may not have change for large bills.
Be aware of similar-looking banknotes to avoid giving the wrong amount.
8. Make Time for Coffee Culture
Vietnamese iced coffee (ca phe sua da) is a treat you won’t want to miss.
Many cafes also serve egg coffee, a unique and delicious specialty.
Do’s in Vietnam
Do plan for flexibility: Train schedules and local flights can be unpredictable. Give yourself extra time between connections.
Do tip sparingly: Tipping isn’t mandatory, but leaving small amounts in restaurants or for tour guides is appreciated.
Do carry bug spray: Mosquitoes can be an issue, especially in rural areas and during the evening.
Don’ts in Vietnam
Don’t show anger: Losing your temper is considered rude and counterproductive. Stay calm and polite in all situations.
Don’t touch heads or point feet: In Vietnamese culture, the head is sacred, and feet are considered the lowest part of the body.
Don’t forget travel insurance: Vietnam’s roads can be chaotic, and minor health issues can arise—be prepared.
Don’t overpack: With affordable laundry services widely available, you don’t need to bring your entire wardrobe.
Don’t underestimate traffic: Crossing the street can be daunting—move at a steady pace, and vehicles will navigate around you.
By following these tips and respecting local customs, your trip to Vietnam will be smoother, safer, and even more rewarding. Let me know if you’d like more tailored advice!
