10 Things to Know Before Traveling to Vietnam

1. The Food is AMAZING

From famous Pho noodles to incredible Bahn Mi sandwiches, the food in Vietnam is up there with the best in the world. The best part is you can find most meals for $1!!

Glorious bowl of Pho!

2. Haggler’s Paradise

You’re in Southeast Asia now and haggling is the name of the game. Make no mistake about it: when they see you, they see dollars! So expect things to be double and even triple there actual value. Start low and don’t be afraid to walk away to the next stall for your souveniers, because most likely they will have a similar product.
3. Natural Beauty

With so many other interesting things going on in Vietnam, it’s still impossible to overlook the incredible nature surrounding you each and every day. With over 25 million acres of forest, thousands of islands, and a variety of interesting animals, it’s easy to get lost in the beauty of this magical country. If you’re in the north, make sure to visit the rice paddies of Sa Pa, and of course a 7th wonder of the natural world, ha long Bay.

4. Don’t Come for the Beaches

Although they may look nice from afar, the beaches in Vietnam offer rough seas and sometimes unswimmable waters! Now this isn’t to say you wont find any beaches at all. And for how amazing of a place it is, it speaks volumes for the rest of the country. All I’m saying is don’t go for the beaches!
5. Trains or Planes

The train systems in Vietnam (and most of SE Asia) are smooth and comfortable. The planes are fast and reliable. But WHATEVER you do… stay away from the bus! If you’ve looked into it, then I’m sure you’ve heard the horror stories, and i’d say 99% of them are true. The majority of them don’t have bathrooms, so you pretty much stop when the bus driver has to go. Sounds fun for a 14 hour ride huh?

Yes, those are people sleeping on the floor.

6. Cheap accomadations

Vietnam is the holy grail of cheap, budget travel in Southeast Asia. Don’t expect to pay much for quality hotels in great locations. When you can get 3 and 4 star hotels for $20 or less you’re definitely doing something right! Don’t be afraid to bargain for the right price!
7. Get your Visa!

Vietnam makes it 100% mandatory to get your visa a few days prior to your arrival. While other countries allow you to purchase it at the border, you will be in trouble if you try that here! Head to your nearest consulate and get one, or you can apply for it online. Just watch out for scams! We used My Vietnam Visa with no issues at all!

8. Traffic

Imagine if everyone rode motorbikes in New York City? Just having a car in Vietnam is like an armored vehicle. Traffic here is INSANE. And walking through it? You might as well close your eyes and say a prayer!

Typical day in capital city of vietnam hanoi

9. History

Since the beginning of time Vietnam has been a hotbed for war and political unrest. From French Colonialism to the American Vietnam War, to conflicts with bordering countries in Asia, they always seem to involved in some sort of conflict. What often gets lost in translation is the historical importance of Vietnam to the world. Be sure to fill your days with culture and new experiences.


My Son Sanctuary
Expert vietnam travel guide including detailed information about everything you need to know about Vietnam10. Markets

Anyone who has been to the markets in Vietnam knows how fun and exciting they can be to visit! With the amazing combination of street food, cheap trinkets, and entertaining vendors, it is rightfully the heart of every Vietnamese town. Tap into the lively local life and make it a part of your everyday experience in Vietnam!