Things to know before traveling to Vietnam
Nov 06,2023 | goodesim
WHY WOULD YOU WANT TO GO TO VIETNAM?
Vietnam is a country that is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. From bustling cities to picturesque beaches, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Vietnam. In this blog post, we will be highlighting some of the best places to visit in Vietnam that you won’t want to miss on your next trip:
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO TRAVEL TO VIETNAM?
As you should know Vietnam is a country that is blessed with year-round tropical weather, making it a popular destination for travelers. However, the best time to visit Vietnam depends on your preferences and what you want to see and do during your trip.
The peak tourist season in Vietnam runs from December to February when the weather is the coolest and driest. This is a great time to visit if you want to avoid the heat and humidity and enjoy comfortable temperatures in the North. During this time, you can also enjoy the colorful festivals and celebrations that take place during the Lunar New Year. We have a tour going every January if you want to experience this.
If you prefer warmer weather and want to avoid crowds, aim to travel between March – May or September – November. These are the best times to visit Vietnam! The weather during this time is still pleasant, with less rain and fewer tourists. This is also a great time to visit if you want to experience Vietnam’s stunning beaches and islands, as the sea is calm and clear.
The summer months of June to August are the hottest and most humid in Vietnam, and this is also the time when the monsoon season takes place. This is not the best time to visit if you want to avoid the heat and humidity, but it can be a great time to visit if you want to experience the lush green landscapes and enjoy the vibrant local festivals. So this means… Vietnam is a country that can be visited all year round depending on what you want to see and do!
WHERE DO WE TRAVEL TO IN VIETNAM?
1. HANOI
The capital city of Vietnam, Hanoi is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that is full of history and culture. The Old Quarter is a must-see for its traditional architecture, street food, and local markets. The Ho Chi Minh Complex is also a popular attraction that includes the mausoleum of the country’s founding father, Ho Chi Minh, and his stilt house where he lived.
2. SA PA
This beautiful mountain town is located in the northwest of Vietnam and is known for its stunning landscapes, traditional hill-tribe villages, and trekking opportunities. The town is known for its diverse and vibrant local culture, with several ethnic groups living in the area, you will experience our adventure trek to Giang Ta Chai village where we can see the Red Dao people. The women of the Red Dao have very colourful red embroideries, coins on their clothing, and wear red scarves on their heads. Learn about their ancient culture and meet the smiling locals as you pass through. Not so many tours show you the hidden-great-sites of Vietnam;
3. HOI AN
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a picturesque town that is known for its well-preserved ancient architecture, traditional tailors, and delicious street food. Hoi An is also a great place to relax and enjoy the laid-back coastal lifestyle.
4. HALONG BAY
This breathtaking natural wonder is a must-see for any traveler visiting Vietnam. The bay is home to thousands of limestone islands and islets that rise out of the emerald green waters. A cruise on a traditional junk boat is the best way to explore this natural wonder.
5. DA NANG
This coastal city is known for its beautiful beaches, delicious seafood, and easy access to the nearby Marble Mountains and the ancient city of Hoi An.
6. HO CHI MINH CITY
Formerly known as Saigon, this bustling city is a melting pot of cultures and is home to some of Vietnam’s most iconic landmarks such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office. The city is also known for its delicious street food, vibrant nightlife, and shopping.
7. HUE
The Imperial City in style, by an open-top army jeep through what was voted as one of the most beautiful roads in the world! We will start by making our way up the Hai Van Pass to some viewpoints with awesome photo opportunities overlooking the spectacular coastline. Get ready for your trip to one of the most amazing landscape destinations of Vietnam! You will have a chance to travel through quiet villages in Ninh Binh, looking around about local life surrounded by rice paddies, spectacular mountain ranges, and pristine rivers.
Vietnam is a country that is full of surprises and these are just a few of the many amazing places that you can visit. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature or just want to relax; Vietnam has something for everyone. A country that offers a wide range of experiences for travelers. From the bustling cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to the breathtaking natural wonders of Halong Bay and Sapa, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Vietnamese cuisine is a must try
Most people, when they hear Vietnamese food, the first thought that pops into their mind is Pho, a soup broth dish with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and meat. But there is more to Vietnamese food than what you might expect. I had the honor to dine with Australia’s Masterchef Luke Nguyen, who is originally from Ho Chi Minh City. Trying his exceptional creations was outstanding.
The common denominator among the regional cuisines is the main use of rice and fish sauce in most dishes. Expect to see a form of rice on almost all meals especially that Vietnam is the second largest rice exporter in the world. They have rice noodles, rice porridge, fried rice, sticky rice, and even rice wine as I told you before. Fish sauce, on the other hand, is used in almost any kind of dish from salad dressings to soup broths. In fact, their national condiment is also made of fish sauce that is diluted with a splash of lime juice, sugar, garlic, and chilies.
As for regional differences in cuisines, food in Northern Vietnam tend to be less spicy because they prefer using black pepper instead of chilli. Dishes famous in the Northern region are Bun Cha, Pho, and Thang Rice Noodle.
Southern Vietnamese cuisine is more flavourful and aromatic because of the liberal use of herbs and spices in cooking (yes I learned this all from Luke Nguyen). Popular dishes in the Southern region are Long Xuyen Raw Neem, My Tho Noodles, and Mam Hotpot.
For food in Central Vietnam, mixtures of spicy flavors characterize the dishes. You will find Nem Lui, Khoai Cake, Banh Beo, and Hue Beef Vermicelli delicious.
There is also French influence in Vietnamese cuisine which is particularly seen on Bah Mi, a sandwich in the form of a crusty French baguette. The filling of it depends on where you buy it, but shredded chicken with a fish sauce is common street food in Vietnam.
When you visit Vietnam don’t miss the opportunity to indulge yourself on street food. The street food scene is lively as ever and single-dish stalls serving a dish with a recipe passed down through the generations. The variety of dishes sold are numerous so there is something for everyone.
Vietnamese coffee is world class
After I did my barista course when living in Sydney I am very picky on coffee. But on your Vietnam trip you should try traditional coffee. Vietnamese coffee is often sweetened by condensed milk so if that is not your thing warn them up front. Their black coffee is strong, but very tasty. A good way to wake up and start your day full of adventures. Vietnam, after all, is the second largest coffee producer in the world.
Vietnam is for every budget
The affordable cost on major travel expenses such as accommodation, public transport, and the food is also a reason that makes traveling to Vietnam so appealing. Therefore, if you have a higher budget for your trip to Vietnam, you can easily have a fabulous luxury experience. Luxurious 5-star hotels are very affordable in this country.
No matter what type of accommodation you choose to stay at, traveling to Vietnam allows you to stretch your budget farther and leaves more room for a more enjoyable tours.
Overall, with all the Vietnam travel tips, reasons to go, things to do and places to see I hope this blog was helpful for your upcoming trip to Vietnam. Let me know if you have any more questions about traveling to Vietnam and I am more than happy to help. Leave me a comment below.
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