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You may have some questions about Vietnam you would like to ask. We have answered some of your most frequently asked questions here.
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Frequent questions will be added to the list below.
Do I need to get a visa for my trip?
What is the official language?
What is the official currency?
Do I need to worry about safety on Vietnam?
Will I be able to do any laundry?
Can I check my e-mails whilst on Vietnam?
What is the weather like on Vietnam?
Are there any ATM's or Banks in Vietnam?
Can I get my photo's developed on Vietnam?
Do you take bookings for accommodation or hotels on Vietnam?
Do I need to get a visa for my trip?
All visitors must obtain Vietnam visa prior to entry into Vietnam. However, at present visitors from the following 12 countries - Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Laos, The Philippines, Japan, Korea, Indonesia, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Sweden are exempted from requiring visas when they enter, exit, or stay in Vietnam for less than 15 days.
Specifically in relation to Vietnam, 2005 regulations were introduced to exempt visas for foreigner entry, exit, and residing in Vietnam for a stay not exceeding 15 days, however this means staying in the airport transit lounge in HCM City before travelling to Vietnam. See our Getting to Vietnam - Customs & Visas page for more comprehensive information.
What is the official language?
Vietnamese is the official language. Although English is also widely spoken in the city center's. Most tour guides speaks English, French, Chinese, Russian and Japanese.
What is the official currency?
Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the official currency.
Foreign currencies such as US and Australian dollars, Japanese Yen as well as many major currencies can be exchanged into Vietnamese Dong at banks or foreign exchange agencies throughout major towns and cities in Vietnam. US dollars is sometomes accepted as currency.
Paper notes include: VND500,000; 200,000; 100,000; 50,000; 20,000; 10,000; 5,000; 2,000; 1,000; 500; 200 and 100. Coins include VND 5,000; 2,000; 1,000; 500 and 200.
Do I need to worry about safety on Vietnam?
While Vietnam is one of the safest countries in Asia, you should take care with your possessions. While there have been no cases of pickpockets or thieves of any kind reported on Vietnam, it is advisable to secure your values, documents and credit cards in your hotel safe. For your own safety, if you choose to ride a motorbike, it is advisable to wear a helmet.
Tipping is not expected in Vietnam or on Vietnam in that matter, but it is highly appreciated. A 5-10% tip for a meal is quite sufficient. Avoid tipping too much, as it will set a precedent for others. It is customary, though not compulsory, to tip tour guides and drivers at the end of a tour, and any tips are appreciated. Hotel and station porters should also be tipped, about 1 - 3 USD/day (or VND 15,000 to VND 50,000), depending on the service. If you travel and eat on the roadside, it is generally not required that you tip.
Will I be able to do any laundry?
Many hotels and resorts on Vietnam will have laundry facilities in house. Alternatively there are many places in cities, towns and villages that also offer a good laundry service at a fraction of the price, just remember to check you receive all your cloths.
Can I check my e-mails whilst on Vietnam?
Internet cafes is very common that offers a wide range of services including printing, Skype, CD, DVD burning of pictures or other content etc. Many of normal cafes and restaurants also have internet services however with limied extra services. Some of them also have wfi/Wlan spots so you can use your own netbook or laptop.
Most hotels and hostels offer internet services for their guests.
Normally internet works well, but don't expect super high bandwith.
What is the weather like on Vietnam?
Most parts of Vietnam has a tropical climate that varies throughout the year ... to be continued..
Are there any ATM's or Banks on Vietnam?
You'll find a number Banks and ATM's in all major cities, towns and even villages. There are also special places for currecy exchange.
In some rural areas and some islands such as Sapa or Phu Quoc Island, we recommend you try to bring some Vietnamese Dong with you, as Exchange Rates are not always as great as in cities, towns. If changing to Laos and Cambodia currency, make sure you get the right currecy. The guy (king) on the bill looks very much the same but thevalue can differ a lot. Laos money is almost worthless outside Laos. So don't exchange more than you need.
Can I get my photo's developed or burned to CD/DVD on Vietnam?
Yes, in cities, towns and tourist areas you can develop your pictures, and some internet cafes offers burning services (DVD/CD) for pictures and videos.
Do you take bookings for Accommodation or hotels on Vietnam?
Our partner Agoda is our preferred agency for hotels. We have peronal experiance with them, and its hard to find lower prices. Very reliable service.
For other hotel options se our accommodation page.
Here's some general advice ... more to come
- It's in your best interests not to drink the tap water.
- Don't take photos of munks
- Don't touch n or point towards anything with your foot (easy to to at markets, but don't), and rememer to keep your foot down even if your legs are crossed when sitting in a chair or bus (or similar). (culture, religon)
- Don't touch anybodys head (even small children) it's considered rude (culture, religon).
- Leave your valuables behind before a night out on the town, or going to the beach. Most hotels offer in room safes.
- Do not offer money directly to minority people - instead donate to a local charity.
- Always ask permission first before taking photographs.
