🛂 1. Entry & Visa
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Visa-free entry: Some nationalities (e.g., ASEAN countries, Japan, South Korea, EU countries) can enter without a visa for a limited number of days.
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E-visa: Available for citizens of over 80 countries; valid for 90 days, single or multiple entry. Apply online before arrival.
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Visa on arrival: Only applies if you have an approval letter (usually arranged through an agency).
👉 Always double-check the latest visa rules before you fly.
💵 2. Currency & Payments
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Currency: Vietnamese đồng (VND).
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USD is sometimes accepted in tourist areas, but always better to pay in VND.
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ATMs are widely available; most dispense up to 3–5 million VND per transaction.
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Credit cards accepted in hotels, malls, and upscale restaurants, but smaller shops are cash only.
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Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated (10% is nice in restaurants, or round up the bill).
📶 3. Connectivity
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SIM cards are cheap and easy to buy at the airport or convenience stores (Viettel, Vinaphone, MobiFone are the main providers).
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Vietnam has good 4G coverage, and 5G is rolling out in major cities.
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Free Wi-Fi is common in cafés, restaurants, and hotels.
🍜 4. Food & Drinks
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Street food is delicious, safe in most busy places, and a must-try (pho, banh mi, bun cha, etc.).
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Tap water is not safe to drink — always use bottled or boiled water.
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If you have food allergies, learn how to say them in Vietnamese.
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Coffee is strong — try “cà phê sữa đá” (iced coffee with condensed milk).
🚗 5. Transport
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Grab (ride-hailing app) is the easiest way to get around in cities.
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Taxis are fine too — stick to reputable companies (Mai Linh, Vinasun).
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Motorbike rentals are cheap, but traffic can be chaotic — only drive if you’re experienced.
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Trains and domestic flights are convenient for long distances (e.g., Hanoi ↔ Ho Chi Minh City).
🏝️ 6. Weather
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North: 4 seasons (cold winter Dec–Feb, hot summer Jun–Aug).
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Central: Can be rainy & prone to typhoons Sep–Nov.
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South: Tropical, hot year-round, rainy season May–Oct.
👉 Pack accordingly — lightweight clothes, but also a light jacket for northern winter or mountain areas.
🙏 7. Culture & Etiquette
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Dress modestly when visiting temples/pagodas (cover shoulders & knees).
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Take off shoes before entering someone’s home or certain sacred places.
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Public displays of affection are uncommon.
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Vietnamese are friendly and love practicing English — a smile goes a long way!
⚠️ 8. Safety & Scams
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Vietnam is generally very safe, but watch out for:
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Pickpockets in crowded areas.
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Overpriced taxis or tours — always check the price before you go.
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Fake brands or gems in markets.
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Crossing the street: Move slowly and steadily — motorbikes will weave around you.
🏥 9. Health & Insurance
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No mandatory vaccines, but it’s good to be up to date on Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, and Tetanus.
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Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
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Pharmacies are everywhere, but check labels carefully.
🎁 10. Useful Phrases
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Hello = Xin chào (sin chow)
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Thank you = Cảm ơn (gahm un)
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How much? = Bao nhiêu tiền? (bao nyew tee-en)
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Delicious = Ngon quá! (ngawn wah)
✨ In short: Vietnam is affordable, safe, and culturally rich. Be prepared for motorbike traffic, spicy food, and lots of smiles — and you’ll love your trip.