Vietnam

Vietnam is an amazing land in Southeast Asia where ancient traditions harmoniously intertwine with the rhythm of modern metropolises. Stretching in a narrow strip along the coast of the South China Sea, the country impresses with a variety of landscapes: from emerald rice terraces in the north to the white sandy beaches of southern resorts. Every traveler will find something for themselves here, whether it's exploring colonial architecture or diving into exotic gastronomy.

The heart of the country is the majestic Hanoi, a city where legends come to life on the shores of picturesque lakes. When traveling through Vietnam, it is impossible to ignore the dynamic Ho Chi Minh City or the cozy, lantern-lit Hoi An. The atmosphere of this country is filled with the hospitality of local residents and the aromas of street food, creating a unique feeling of an eternal celebration of life.

The official currency of the country is the Vietnamese dong (international code — VND). Vietnamese banknotes are made of a special polymer, which makes them durable and moisture-resistant — a useful property in tropical conditions. Each banknote invariably features a portrait of Ho Chi Minh. Tourists should be careful, as bills of different denominations can be easily confused due to the large number of zeros.

It is best to exchange currency at official banks, licensed exchange offices, or large jewelry stores, which often offer favorable rates. In major cities like Ho Chi Minh City, bank cards are accepted in almost all shopping centers, hotels, and restaurants. However, for visiting markets and traveling to the provinces, it is always worth having cash dongs with you.

To plan a trip to Vietnam, it is important to familiarize yourself with the current entry rules in advance. Citizens of many countries, including Russia and some European countries, are entitled to a visa-free stay for a certain period (usually up to 45 days). If you are planning a longer journey, you must apply for a tourist visa. Currently, the most convenient way is to obtain an electronic visa (e-visa) online, which allows you to stay in the country for up to 90 days.

To cross the border, you will definitely need a passport, which must be valid for at least six months at the time of entry. It is also recommended to have copies of your return tickets and proof of accommodation booking. Since visa policies can change, we strongly advise checking for the latest information on the official resources of Vietnamese embassies or consulates immediately before departure.

The territory of Vietnam is located in a single time zone, which significantly simplifies itinerary planning within the country. Standard time corresponds to the international designation GMT+7 (Indochina Time, ICT). The entire country lives by a single rhythm, from the northern borders to the southernmost islands.

When flying from Europe or America, tourists should consider the time difference to avoid severe jet lag. However, the absence of internal time zones makes it easy to calculate departure times for trains and planes when moving between cities, whether it's a trip from the capital to the resorts or back.

The main way to get to Vietnam is by air. The country has several major aviation hubs capable of receiving flights from all over the world. The main gateways are the capital's Noi Bai International Airport in the north and Tan Son Nhat in the south. Most travelers arrive here using direct flights or convenient connections through major airports in Asia and the Middle East.

Due to its location, Vietnam is also accessible for land travel from neighboring countries. Regular bus services are established between Laos, Cambodia, and China, and you can even arrive from China by train. If you prefer sea travel, many cruise ships include stops at the ports of Da Nang or Ho Chi Minh City in their itineraries. It is recommended to plan your trip and book flights in advance, especially if your vacation falls during the winter holidays.

A journey through Vietnam is an opportunity to see an amazing diversity of regions. In the north, travelers can expect majestic Hanoi, combining French charm and ancient Asian culture. Those looking for perfect beaches and a sea breeze should head to Phan Thiet, known for its picturesque dunes and excellent conditions for water sports.

History buffs and fans of a unique atmosphere of the past will definitely enjoy Hoi An, whose old town is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. For those who prefer cool mountain air and romance, the highland Da Lat is open, surrounded by coniferous forests and waterfalls. Meanwhile, the southern metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City will amaze you with its energy, skyscrapers, and bustling business life.

One of the most recognizable landmarks of the south is the Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City. It is not just a marketplace, but a true symbol of the city, where under a massive clock tower you can find everything from exotic fruits to traditional ao dai costumes. Life here is bustling from early morning until late at night, when the evening bazaar unfolds in the square.

In the center of the country, in charming Hoi An, is the famous Japanese Covered Bridge. Built back in the 16th century, this architectural masterpiece connected the Japanese and Chinese quarters. The bridge is topped with a small pagoda and guarded by statues of dogs and monkeys, creating a unique historical look for the old town.

Nature lovers should visit the surroundings of Da Lat, where the impressive Datanla Waterfall is located. This place attracts visitors not only with the beauty of the cascading water but also with the opportunity to ride unique "alpine coasters" through the jungle. A walk to the foot of the waterfall among tropical greenery will be one of the brightest impressions of the trip.

The atmosphere of the night city is best experienced at a place like the Hoi An Night Market. Hundreds of colorful silk lanterns illuminate stalls with souvenirs, street food, and handmade crafts, turning an ordinary walk into a fairytale event.

Choosing the ideal time for a trip to Vietnam depends on the region, as the climate in the north, center, and south of the country varies significantly. The high season for most tourist destinations lasts from November to April. This period offers the most comfortable dry weather, ideal for a beach holiday in Phan Thiet or strolling through Hanoi. However, keep in mind that during popular periods, accommodation prices may be higher, and major attractions will be more crowded.

The low season, which falls in the summer and early autumn months, brings wet monsoons. Despite periodic rains, this time has its perks: nature becomes incredibly bright and green, and hotels offer significant discounts. This is a great time for those who prefer a secluded holiday without the extra hustle and bustle. If your goal is to see the famous blossoms or experience national holidays like Tet (Vietnamese New Year), plan your trip for late January or early February, but remember that during these days, life in the country practically comes to a standstill.

The culture of Vietnam is deeply rooted in respect for elders and family values. When communicating with locals, you will notice their restraint and politeness. A traditional greeting is often accompanied by a slight bow, and boisterous displays of emotion in public are considered undesirable. An important trait is hospitality: if you are invited into a home, it is good manners to bring a small gift, such as fruit or sweets.

Special attention should be paid to the rules of conduct in religious places. When visiting temples and pagodas, it is necessary to choose clothing that covers shoulders and knees, and it is customary to remove your shoes before entering the temple. At the table, Vietnamese people often use chopsticks, and there are nuances here: for example, you should not stick them vertically into a bowl of rice, as this resembles a memorial ritual for the deceased.

The main holiday of the country is Tet — the Vietnamese New Year according to the lunar calendar. This is a time of renewal when families gather together, prepare the traditional banh chung cake, and decorate their homes with branches of flowering peach or mandarin trees. Respecting these simple rules and traditions will help you feel the spirit of the country more deeply and receive the warmest welcome from the Vietnamese people.

Vietnam offers guests a kaleidoscope of entertainment for every taste. Fans of active recreation will appreciate trekking among rice fields in the northern provinces or kitesurfing in Phan Thiet. For those who prefer a cultural program, a visit to the traditional water puppet theater in Hanoi or exploring the historical exhibits of numerous museums is a must.

The country's nightlife is particularly vibrant in Ho Chi Minh City, where entire streets turn into endless rows of bars and clubs with live music. Shopping in Vietnam is an adventure in itself: here you can buy exquisite silk and pearls, as well as unique products from local artisans at colorful venues like Ben Thanh Market. Families with children will find plenty of interest in modern entertainment centers and water parks, which are found in almost every major resort city.

Planning a trip to Vietnam? Excellent! The local currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). To avoid any financial surprises on your journey, it's important to remember that exchange rates between the UAE Dirham (AED) and the Dong fluctuate. We strongly advise monitoring the latest rates before you depart and throughout your stay. You can use the data provided below, which we update 24/7 to bring you the most current information.