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Hidden gems to travel in Vietnam - Hoi An | EzyRemit

Meta description: Hoi An is a hidden gem in Vietnam, perfect for any explorer. Our article will help you decide if it's the right place for your next trip!

There are a lot of hidden gems to travel in Vietnam, and one of them is Hoi An. This beautiful city is located in central Vietnam and is known for its well-preserved architecture and its friendly people. 

Hoi An is a great place to visit if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The city is small but there are plenty of things to see and do. You can explore the ancient ruins, visit the local markets, or take a boat ride through the picturesque waterways. 

See more: Top Vietnam Travel Tips For Foreign Visitors In 2022

A Hidden Gem in Vietnam

Hoi An is the place to go if you're looking for a hidden gem in Vietnam. On Vietnam's central coast, this quaint village is well-known for its preserved architecture and lively light festival.

While Hoi An may be small, it’s packed with things to do. Stroll through the narrow streets lined with French colonial buildings, visit one of the many temples or museums, or take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes. 

 

Hoi An Ancient Town, Vietnam

Hoi An is also a great place to shop for souvenirs. You’ll find everything from handmade lanterns to silk clothing and custom-made shoes. And if you’re looking for something truly unique, head to one of the town’s many tailor shops to have a custom piece of clothing made just for you.

Hoi An is sure to please whether you're interested in history, culture, food, or shopping. So add this hidden gem to your Vietnam travel plans – you won’t regret it!

The Old Town of Hoi An

If you’re looking for a truly unique and atmospheric place to travel, then Hoi An is definitely worth a visit. This charming town was once an important trading port, and many of the buildings reflect a mix of Chinese, Japanese and French influences. These days it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, and much of the old town is pedestrianized, making it a lovely place to wander around.

 Hoi An Old Town View

There are plenty of things to see and do in Hoi An. The ancient town is full of beautiful old temples, including the Cao Dai Temple which combines elements of Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism. You can also visit the central market, take a boat trip down the river or try your hand at traditional paper lantern making. 

And of course, no visit to Hoi An would be complete without sampling some of the local cuisines – from fresh seafood to delicious street food, there’s something to suit every taste.

The Beaches of Hoi An

Hoi An is a beautiful coastal town in central Vietnam. Its temperate climate, sandy beaches, and turquoise waters make it a perfect destination for a beach vacation.

There are many different beaches to choose from in Hoi An. An Bang Beach is the most popular beach in town. It’s well-known for its golden sand and clear water. You can find many restaurants, bars, and cafes along the beach.

 An Bang Beach Hoi An

Cua Dai Beach is another great option for a day at the beach. It’s less crowded than An Bang Beach and has a more relaxed atmosphere. The long stretch of white sand and blue water is perfect for a lazy day spent swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the views.

If you’re looking for a more secluded beach experience, try Bach Dang Beach. This hidden gem is located on the outskirts of town and is often empty due to its remote location. The tranquility of the surroundings makes it the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature.

The Rice Fields of Hoi An

If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, then head to the small town of Hoi An. This hidden gem is located in central Vietnam and is known for its rice fields.

The rice fields of Hoi An are a must-see when visiting this town. They are located just outside of the city center and are a great place to take a leisurely stroll or go for a bike ride. The best time to see the rice fields is during the harvest season, which typically runs from October to December. During this time, the fields are full of workers harvesting the crop by hand.

 rice field in Hoi An

If you're interested in learning more about the rice fields of Hoi An, then be sure to check out one of the many tours that are offered in town. These tours will not only take you out to see the rice fields, but also teach you about the history and culture of this region.

Places to stay

There are many places to stay in Hoi An, from high-end resorts to more affordable options. For those on a budget, there are plenty of hostels and guesthouses to choose from. If you're looking for something a bit more luxurious, there are several 4- and 5-star hotels in the city.

 

Some of the top places to stay in Hoi An include the Ana Mandara Resort, the Banyan Tree Lang Co, and the Fusion Maia Da Nang. These resorts offer stunning views, world-class amenities, and unparalleled service. For those wanting to experience a more traditional Vietnamese hotel, the Thanh Binh Riverside Hotel is a great option. This hotel is located on the banks of the Thu Bon River and offers beautiful river views.

Read more: Top Vietnam Travel Tips For Foreign Visitors In 2022

Where to eat 

If you're looking for some amazing food while in Hoi An, you won't be disappointed. There are plenty of great places to eat, whether you're looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal.

For a quick snack, head to one of the many banh mi carts dotted around the city. These little Vietnamese sandwiches are packed with flavor and make for a great on-the-go meal. If you're looking for something a bit more substantial, there are plenty of great restaurants serving up Hoi An's famous noodle soup, cao lau. This dish is not to be missed!

Hoi An food - Cao lau

For those with a sweet tooth, Hoi An is also home to some delicious desserts. Don't leave without trying the banh cam, a deep-fried dough ball filled with sweet mung bean paste, or the ba mau sweet soup, a refreshing soup made with green beans, lotus seeds, and coconut milk.

The Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Hoi An is during the dry season, which runs from February to April. March and April are typically the busiest months, so if you're looking to avoid the crowds, plan your trip for early February. Keep in mind that Hoi An is located in Central Vietnam, so the weather will be hotter and more humid than in other parts of the country.

What to Do in Hoi An

Hoi An is an incredible city in Vietnam with a rich history and culture. There are plenty of things to do in Hoi An, from exploring the ancient town to visiting the nearby beaches. 

Here are some of the best things to do in Hoi An:

  1. Visit the Ancient Town: The ancient town of Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vietnam. It's well worth spending a day or two exploring the narrow streets, shops, temples, and museums.
  2. Go to the Beach: Hoi An is located just a short drive from some of Vietnam's best beaches. Whether you want to relax on the sand, go for a swim, or try your hand at surfing, there's a beach for you.
  3. Take a Boat Trip: One of the best ways to see Hoi An is from the water. There are plenty of boat trips available, ranging from short tours of the river to longer excursions out to sea.
  4. Eat Your Way through Hoi An: Vietnamese food is delicious, and Hoianese cuisine is some of the best in the country. Be sure to try some of the local specialties like Cao Lau and White Rose Dumplings.
  5. Shop for souvenirs: From silk lanterns to handmade crafts, there are plenty of great souvenirs to be found in Hoi An. Just be sure to haggle!

For a better experience traveling to Hoi An, try EzyRemit

EzyRemit is a convenient and easy-to-use service that makes keeping track of your financial information while traveling to Hoi An hassle-free. 

EzyTravel, a digital wallet that allows you to add funds and convert them into Vietnam Dong, makes it easy to keep track of your travel spending. EzyRemit also offers remittance services, allowing you to send money quickly and without worrying about high fees.

So if you're looking for a better way to travel, be sure to try EzyRemit!

For those who are not familiar with Tet, it is the Vietnamese Lunar New Year and is the biggest and most important holiday in Vietnam. It is a time for families to be together, celebrate the year that has passed, and look forward to the year ahead. Tet is also a time for traditional activities such as cleaning the house, decorating with lucky symbols, preparing special foods, and visiting family and friends. In this article, EzyRemit will take a closer look at some of these traditional Tet activities and explain their significance.

What is Tet?

Tet is the Vietnamese New Year and is considered the most important holiday of the year. It is a time for a family reunion, thanksgiving, and prayer. Tet usually falls on the first day of the lunar calendar, making it a moveable holiday. Next year, Tet will be celebrated on January 22nd of 2023.

The holiday lasts for three days and each day has its own special meaning and activities. The first day of Tet is for the ancestors, the second day is for the gods, and the third day is for humans. Families will often clean their homes and cook special foods to prepare for Tet.

On the first day of Tet, people visit the graves of their ancestors to pay respects. They will also burn incense and offer prayers. The second day of Tet is when people go to the temples to pray to the gods. The third day of Tet is when people visit their friends and relatives.

There are many traditional foods associated with Tet such as Banh Chung (a sticky rice cake), thit kho (braised pork), and candied fruit. Families will also exchange gifts with each other during this time.

The History of Vietnamese New Year

Vietnamese New Year, or Tet Nguyen Dan, is the most important holiday in Vietnam. It is a time for a family reunion, and many special activities are performed during this time.

Tet usually falls on the same day as Chinese New Year, and it is believed that the holiday originated in China. Tet was originally a celebration of the first day of spring, and it was a time to honor the deities who bring good fortune. Over time, the holiday has evolved to become a celebration of the lunar new year.

Today, the Vietnamese New Year is a time for family reunions and feasting. Many special foods are eaten during this time, and people often give gifts to each other. Red envelopes containing money are often given to children and young adults.

Traditional activities during the Vietnamese New Year include cleaning the house, decorating with lanterns and flowers, setting off fireworks, and going to temples to pray for good fortune in the new year.

Read more: How Three Regions Celebrate Vietnam New Year | EzyRemit

Tet Traditional Activities - Families visit relatives' and ancestors' graves

Tet, or Lunar New Year, is the biggest and most important holiday in Vietnam. It is a time for families to be together, to celebrate the New Year, and to reflect on the past year. One of the traditional activities of Tet is visiting the graves of ancestors and relatives.

This is a time for families to remember their loved ones who have passed away, and to pay their respects. Families will clean the gravesites and often leave offerings of food and flowers. This is also a time for people to reflect on their own lives and think about what they want to achieve in the new year.

Tet Traditional Activities - Children receive lucky money

In Vietnam, it is tradition for children to receive lucky money during the Tet holiday. This money is given to them by their elders as a way of wishing them good luck and prosperity in the year to come. The amount of money given varies, but it is typically an odd number so as to bring good luck. The lucky money is usually wrapped in red envelopes and given to the children by their parents or grandparents.

 Tet traditional activities - receive lucky money

This tradition is a way of passing on blessings from the older generation to the younger generation. It is also a way of teaching children the importance of giving and sharing. By receiving lucky money, children learn that they are loved and supported by their family and community. This tradition instills in them a sense of responsibility and gratitude, which are values that are essential in Vietnamese culture.

Adults can also receive lucky money or exchange gifts with each other. Family members and friends give each other lucky money envelopes as a way to wish them good luck in the new year.

Tet Traditional Activities - People enjoy special Tet dishes

One of the most important traditions is the preparation of special foods. Each family has their own recipes that have been passed down through the generations. The most common dishes are rice cakes, seafood, and roasted pork.

traditional actitvities - Vietnam feast

Vietnamese enjoy special Tet foods like Banh Chung, a type of sticky rice cake that is wrapped in banana leaves. This dish is often served with a sweet and savory dipping sauce. Other popular dishes include Thit Kho, a braised pork dish, and Goi Cuon - Vietnamese spring rolls.

Tet is also a time for adult Vietnamese to catch up on gossip and news. Families often get together to chat and drink tea during Tet. Adults may also play cards or gamble during Tet, as it is considered good luck.

Firecrackers and dragons are part of the festivities

Tet, the Vietnamese New Year, is a time for family, friends, and fireworks. One of the most popular Tet activities is setting off firecrackers. Firecrackers are thought to scare away evil spirits and bring good luck.

Dragons are also a big part of Tet festivities. Dragon dances are common, and many homes and businesses will have dragon decorations on display. Dragons are seen as lucky and powerful symbols, so it's hoped that having them around during Tet will bring good fortune in the new year.

Tet is the day of family reunion

Tet is a holiday that is very important to the Vietnamese people. Tet is a time for family to get together and celebrate the new year.

Families traditionally clean their homes and cook special meals to welcome in the New Year.  Decorating the house is also an important part of the preparations for Vietnamese New Year. Homes are adorned with pictures of lucky symbols like dragons and phoenixes. Flowers and plants are also used to decorate as they represent new life and growth.

On New Year’s Eve, families gather together to watch fireworks and light lanterns. This tradition is believed to scare away evil spirits and bring good luck for the new year. Tet is also a time for family members to catch up with each other and exchange gifts. For many people, Tet is the most important holiday of the year.

Have your Tet travel experience easier, use EzyTravel

EzyRemit can help you have a simple and stress-free journey to Vietnam if you want to enjoy Tet. Visitors may quickly send money to Vietnam using EzyRemit before their vacation, ensuring they have enough cash on hand for spending and giving lucky money.

Our service also offers EzyTravel, a digital wallet that enables you to add funds and convert them into Vietnam Dong, making it simple to keep track of your travel spending. There are two ways to exchangeVietnamese currency: withdraw cash at the bank branches or by having a representative deliver it to you while you are in Vietnam. Additionally, EzyRemit provides remittance services so you can send money conveniently and without worrying about high fees.

So if you're looking for an easier and more affordable way to travel, be sure to check out EzyTravel. With our help, you'll be able to focus on enjoying your trip, rather than worrying about your finance.

Interest in easy methods to make money online from the comfort of our homes has grown in recent years, particularly in the aftermath of the pandemic.

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Job to Make Money Online - Freelance Writing

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make money online - freelance writing

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EzyRemit’s Refer-A-Friend Program

EzyRemit is an online remittance service to send money to family and friends back home. We have a Refer a Friend program where if someone signs up through your referral link and sends money from 15 AUD/USD/CAD for the first time, both you and the person you referred get $15 in their account (currently applicable in the US, Australia, and Canada).

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Job to Make Money Online - SEO Consulting

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Read more: 

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Tet, or Vietnamese New Year, is the biggest and most important holiday in Vietnam. It is a time for family reunions, ancestor worship, and celebrating the new year. Each region has its own way of celebrating Tet, depending on its climate, geography, and history.

In this article, we will explore the differences between how Vietnam New Year is celebrated in the three regions of Vietnam. From the food to the decorations to the activities, you'll learn about all the unique ways that Tet is celebrated across Vietnam. 

Read more: Top Vietnam Travel Tips For Foreign Visitors In 2022 (ezyremit.com)

What is Tet?

Tet is the Vietnam New Year and is the most important holiday in Vietnamese culture. It is a time for a family reunion, and for celebrating the coming of spring. Tet usually falls in late January or early February and lasts for three days. The first day of Tet is the start of the new lunar year and is considered to be the most important day.

 Vietnam new year

There are three regions in Vietnam: the North, Central, and South. Each region has its own unique customs and traditions associated with Tet.

The Significance of Tet

In Vietnam, Tet is the most important and popular holiday. It is a time for a family reunion, celebrating the New Year, and wishing for good luck in the year to come. Tet is also a time of great religious significance, as it is the day on which the Vietnamese people commemorate the death of Buddha.

The holiday has both religious and secular aspects. Vietnamese New Year is considered the first day of spring, and so it is a time of renewal and hope. Many people clean their homes and decorate them with flowers and lucky symbols before Tet arrives. On the eve of Tet, people often stay up all night to welcome the New Year.

Vietnam New Year of The North

The North of Vietnam is cooler than the South, with temperatures averaging 20-25 degrees Celsius. The region experiences four seasons, including a hot summer, cool winter, and two rainy seasons. Vietnamese New Year in the North is celebrated during the first lunar month, which falls in February or early March.

In the north, people traditionally wear red clothes and decorate their homes with phoenixes and dragon symbols. On the first day of Tet, people visit their ancestors' graves and offer them food and gifts. The second day is reserved for family gatherings, and the third day is for visiting friends and extended family.

Vietnam New Year of The Central

When it comes to Vietnam New Year, each region of Vietnam has its own unique traditions. In the North, Tet is all about family reunions and feasts. The central region is known for its elaborate floral decorations and vibrant dragon dances. And in the South, people take part in water festivals and boat races.

Central Vietnam is known for its colorful flowers and trees. People here like to decorate their homes with these plants, as well as with lanterns and streamers. On the first day of Tet, people go to the temple to pray for a prosperous year ahead. The second day is spent visiting relatives and friends, and the third day is devoted to relaxation and enjoyment.

On the eve of Tet, families clean their homes and prepare traditional dishes. On the first day of Tet, people visit their relatives and offer them best wishes for the new year. The second day is spent with family members, and on the third-day people visit friends and neighbors. Fireworks are set off on all three nights of Tet.

 

The Central Highlands region has a more subdued celebration of Tet. In this region, people focus more on paying respect to their ancestors than on revelry. 

On the first day of Tet, people visit the tombs of their ancestors and offer them gifts of food and flowers. Families also gather together to enjoy traditional Tet dishes such as nem (spring rolls), Banh Chung (glutinous rice cakes), and Thit Kho (braised pork).

sticky rice cake - Vietnam New Year

Vietnam New Year of The South

Vietnam New Year is undoubtedly celebrated in a distinctive manner in the South of Vietnam. For starters, the South is generally hotter than the North, so many of the traditional Tet foods are replaced with lighter, refreshing dishes.

The south of Vietnam is hot all year round, so the decorations here are often made from palm leaves or bamboo. Homes are decorated with lanterns, lamps, and colorful paper cutouts.

 

In the South, Tet is also a time for celebration, but it is not quite as festive as in the North. Families get together to eat special dishes such as Banh Tet (a type of rice cake), Thit Kho (braised pork).

On the first day of Tet, many people in the South head to their local temples to pray and make offerings. The second day is all about spending time with family and friends, and the third day is reserved for visiting gravesites and paying respects to ancestors.

Use EzyTravel to experience Tet more easily

For those looking to travel and experience Vietnam New Year, EzyRemit can make your trip easy and hassle-free. With EzyRemit, visitors can easily send money to Vietnam in advance of their trip, ensuring they have plenty of money on hand for spending.

Our service also includes EzyTravel, a digital wallet that allows you to top up your money, which can be exchanged into Vietnam Dong, making it easy to keep track of your spending. Vietnamese currency can be withdrawn in one of two ways: withdraw cash at the bank branches, or by having a representative bring it to you while you’re in Vietnam. 

The advantage is that there is no need to carry a lot of cash and the exchange rate is fixed (since it was topped up before flying to Vietnam). What's more, EzyRemit also offers remittance services, so you can easily send money back home without having to worry about expensive fees.

So if you're looking for an easier and more affordable way to travel, be sure to check out EzyTravel. With our help, you'll be able to focus on enjoying your trip, rather than worrying about your finance.

Learn more about EzyTravel at: http://ezyremit.com/CashPassport

Conclusion

It's clear that there are some big differences between how Vietnamese New Year is celebrated in the north, south, and central regions of Vietnam. While the holiday is a time for family and friends to get together no matter where you are from, it's clear that each region has its own unique way of celebrating.

Whether it's the food that's served, the decorations that are used, or the activities that take place during Tet, each area has something special to offer. So if you're ever curious about how this holiday is celebrated in different parts of Vietnam, be sure to come around and see what makes each region's celebration so special.

 

In short, Vietnam travel tips for foreign visitors cover 6 areas: choosing a region, sorting out your visa, picking safe accommodation, planning transport, staying alert to petty crime, and understanding the Vietnamese dong before you exchange money.

Key Takeaways

  • Visit both Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi to see contrasting sides of Vietnam travel.
  • Apply for an e-visa, a visa on arrival, or an embassy visa based on nationality and trip length.
  • Book accommodation through Booking, Agoda, or Airbnb, or try a local homestay.
  • Get around by motorbike taxi, rented motorbike, or a ride-hailing app such as Grab.
  • Stay alert to petty theft and mosquito-borne illness rather than worrying about violent crime.
  • Carry Vietnamese dong for everyday spending and double-check change given the number of zeros.

It is indisputable that Vietnam is a one-of-a-kind country with a diverse range of magnificent landscapes spanning from the North to the South. With its rich culture and history, great food, and friendly people, it is no surprise that Vietnam is a popular tourist destination. However, many international tourists who travel to Vietnam are not well-informed about the tips on how to have the greatest experience possible.

Planning is an important component of any trip, and there are several things you should know before visiting Vietnam, especially if you are a first-time visitor.

Read more: What Is Travel Insurance and How To Choose The Suitable One (ezyremit.com)

Which Region of Vietnam Should Foreign Visitors Explore First?

Vietnam is a long, coastal country with its signature S-curve, and its two largest cities feel like different worlds. Ho Chi Minh City (or Saigon, as locals call it) is fast-paced and shaped by decades of western contact, while Hanoi in the north stays closer to Vietnam traditional customs. First-time visitors get the fullest picture of Vietnam travel by spending time in both cities rather than just one.

Ho Chi Minh City also has a lively nightlife scene, including several rooftop bars in Saigon with skyline views over District 1, which is worth building into your itinerary if you enjoy evenings out.

Friendly inhabitants, well-preserved customs, historic towns, mature tourism facilities, and reasonably priced hotels will all make your visit to Vietnam more intriguing and unforgettable. For a broader shortlist beyond the two big cities, see our guide to the top 10 places you must visit in Vietnam, since your trip experience can be excellent even away from the best-known sights.

What Visa Do Foreign Visitors Need to Enter Vietnam?

Foreign visitors can enter Vietnam with an e-visa, a visa on arrival, or a visa issued by a Vietnamese embassy, depending on nationality and length of stay. Visa rules in Vietnam change more often than in many other countries, so it is important to double-check current requirements with your embassy or the official Vietnamese immigration website before you book travel.

These Vietnam travel tips on visas start with knowing your options: there are many categories of visas, but for travelers, the three types you can apply for are:

Visa Type Best For Typical Duration Where to Apply
E-Visa Most tourists and short business trips Up to 90 days, single or multiple entry Online, before departure
Visa on Arrival Travelers flying into a major Vietnamese airport Set by the approval letter Airport, with a pre-arranged approval letter
Embassy Visa Travelers who prefer a visa in their passport before flying Set by the embassy Vietnamese embassy or consulate
  • E-Visa: You may get one by filling out an online application form. It is suggested for travelers since it is the most convenient and cost-effective option. Since 15 August 2023, Vietnam e-Visas are valid for up to 90 days with single or multiple entry, per the Embassy of Vietnam official announcement on Resolution No. 127/NQ-CP.
  • Visa on Arrival: In Vietnam, VOA is conditional. In addition to the standard immigration application (obtained on the flight or at the airport), your passport, pictures, cash, and an Approval Letter are required (obtained through travel agencies and then printed out). Most major airports in Vietnam accept VOA, and the process usually takes around 30 minutes.
  • Embassy Visa: It is available through any Vietnamese embassy in your country, as well as any other country with a Vietnamese embassy. You simply need to follow the provided steps to acquire a Vietnam visa.

Vietnam travel tips - Visa approve

Furthermore, regular passport holders from certain countries do not require a visa to enter Vietnam. More information about the visa exemption policy may be found here.

Where Should Foreign Visitors Stay in Vietnam?

Foreign visitors can find accommodation in Vietnam for almost any budget, from hostels and homestays to full-service resorts, since Vietnam, like most of Southeast Asia, offers many affordable and simple alternatives for any travel budget.

At the moment, whatever sort of accommodation suits you the most, you can look up Booking, Agoda, or Airbnb to find the best one for your needs. One of the useful Vietnam travel tips is to experience local homestays with a comfy staycation and friendly service.

There are many various forms of accommodation in Vietnam depending on the nature of your visit and your travel budget, ranging from resorts, hotels, hostels, and guesthouses (homestay), to regular apartments. These Vietnam travel tips on lodging apply whether you book weeks ahead or on arrival.

What Is the Best Way to Get Around Vietnam?

Motorbike taxis, ride-hailing apps such as Grab, and rented motorbikes are the most common way for foreign visitors to get around Vietnamese cities, since Vietnam has a wide and efficient transportation network linking almost every corner of the country, from trains to buses. These Vietnam travel tips for getting around apply equally in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and smaller provincial towns.

Motorbike traffic in a Vietnamese city street

Arriving in any major metropolitan area in Vietnam might be a bit jarring, especially if you have not spent much time in Asia previously. The streets are busy, motorbikes are all over the road, and there is not always much tourist information to help you navigate depending on the city. Vietnam is also a congested nation with narrow streets and lanes in major cities, so traffic congestion at peak hours is common.

There are several transportation options available for you to choose from, including motorbikes, taxis, buses, and rickshaws. Motorcycles are unquestionably the most convenient and cost-effective method for short trips. You can usually arrange a rented motorbike through your hotel, hostel, or homestay; ask them for the current daily rate, since prices vary by location and season.

If you find it too hard to navigate the streets of Vietnam yourself, ride-sharing apps such as Grab or Bee are widely available here. They are easy to use and mostly English supported.

Is Vietnam Safe for Foreign Visitors?

Vietnam is a generally safe country for foreign visitors, including first-time travelers, since the locals are warm, helpful, and hospitable to international visitors. The main risks are petty theft in crowded tourist areas, traffic accidents, and mosquito-borne illness rather than violent crime, so most precautions are about awareness rather than danger avoidance. These Vietnam travel tips on safety apply to solo travelers and groups alike.

Vietnam travel tips - stay safe on the street

  • When crossing the street in Vietnam, simply go slowly and cars will generally avoid you. Make no unexpected moves.
  • Motorcycling may be a thrilling experience, but it can also be dangerous in cities if you do not know the ins and outs. Drive slowly and follow local traffic laws.
  • Street crimes such as robberies and pick-pocketing are especially prevalent in big cities and tourist areas like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Nha Trang. Take careful care of your possessions and keep your bags in front of you in crowded areas, and keep an eye out before you hold up your phone or wallet.
  • To avoid infectious illnesses such as dengue fever, dress in long-sleeved shirts and trousers and use mosquito repellent.
  • Street food can be risky if not prepared sanitarily. Use sites like Foody or ask your local guide for recommendations on where it is safe to eat.

How Does Currency and Money Exchange Work in Vietnam?

The official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese dong, shown after an amount as an abbreviation such as "d" or "VND". Vietnamese banknotes range from 1.000 VND to 500.000 VND, and the number of zeros can be confusing at first, so one of the most useful Vietnam travel tips on currency is to double-check carefully while exchanging money, paying for things, or receiving change.

Vietnam travel tips - Vietnam currency

Should Foreign Visitors Use Cash or Card in Vietnam?

Cash remains the preferred payment method in Vietnam, especially at markets, street food stalls, and small vendors outside major cities. Vietnam has been gradually moving toward a cashless society, but visitors should still carry enough cash on hand, especially if they plan on visiting markets or street vendors.

Should Foreign Visitors Pay in Dong or US Dollars?

Vietnamese dong is the national currency and the preferred one for everyday transactions, but US dollars are also widely accepted in Vietnam. You can use US dollars to pay vendors, drivers, hotels, and restaurants aimed at tourists, and some hotel rates and airline tickets are even priced directly in US dollars.

Where Can Foreign Visitors Exchange Money in Vietnam?

Vietnam has widespread currency exchange options in and around its major cities, including banks, licensed exchange counters, and some hotels and jewelry stores. The USD is the most popular and easily convertible currency in Vietnam, and AUD, GBP, EUR, and CNY are also reasonably straightforward to exchange.

Foreign currency coins and banknotes for money exchange

Airport banks and money changers frequently convert money at weaker rates than counters in the city center, while some hotels and jewelry stores can also exchange currency, sometimes with more favorable rates. Always compare rates before exchanging a large amount so you do not get short-changed.

However, most of these headaches surrounding money can be avoided if you use EzyRemit for your trip to Vietnam.

How Can EzyRemit Make Managing Money in Vietnam Easier?

As a convenient service of EzyRemit, EzyTravel is a virtual multi-currency wallet built for international travelers coming to Vietnam. It lets you carry money safely and easily when traveling internationally instead of carrying only cash, by storing your own money in the currencies you require on an EzyCash account.

You only need your passport to receive money from affiliated banks using the EzyRemit app, which removes many of the risks that come with carrying too much cash while traveling in Vietnam.

With the exchange rate locking option, when you deposit money into an EzyRemit virtual currency pocket, the amount you get after the exchange stays fixed regardless of later market fluctuations, so your travel budget is not affected by rate swings after you lock it in.

For more information, check out our website and start planning your trip to Vietnam today.

These Vietnam travel tips cover the questions foreign visitors ask most often before a first trip to Vietnam.

FAQ: Vietnam Travel Tips for Foreign Visitors

Do foreign visitors need a visa to enter Vietnam?

Yes. Most foreign visitors need either an e-visa, a visa on arrival, or a visa from a Vietnamese embassy before traveling to Vietnam. Citizens of a limited number of countries qualify for visa exemption on short stays. Since 15 August 2023, the Vietnam e-visa allows a stay of up to 90 days with single or multiple entry, under Resolution No. 127/NQ-CP.

Is Vietnam safe for foreign visitors?

Vietnam is generally safe for foreign visitors, with low rates of violent crime and a welcoming local population. The main risks are petty theft in crowded tourist areas, traffic accidents, and mosquito-borne illness, so visitors should stay alert with their belongings, follow local traffic rules, and use insect repellent in humid areas.

Should foreign visitors carry Vietnamese dong or US dollars?

Foreign visitors should carry Vietnamese dong for everyday purchases such as markets, street food, and local transport, since cash remains the preferred payment method outside major hotels. US dollars are also accepted at many hotels, airlines, and tour operators, but dong is needed for small vendors and street-level transactions.

What is the easiest way to get around Vietnam as a tourist?

Motorbike taxis and ride-hailing apps such as Grab are the easiest way for foreign visitors to get around Vietnamese cities, since both are inexpensive and widely available. For longer distances between cities, domestic flights, trains, and long-distance buses connect major destinations across the country.

Last updated 2026-08-11: refreshed visa validity, removed a lapsed 2022 covid-era entry note, and added current internal links.