Things to Know Before Visiting Vietnam

Vietnam at a Glance!

Ho Chi Minh, a key figure in Vietnamese history, is honoured with a large mausoleum in Hanoi, the country's capital. In Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), you'll find the Củ Chi tunnels used by the Viet Cong, museums about the Vietnam War, and French colonial buildings.

In 2023, over 390,000 Indian travellers visited Vietnam, making India the 9th most significant source of visitors. Indian arrivals grew by an average of 45% each month, showing a strong interest in Vietnam's attractions.

Here are some quick things to know before going to Vietnam:

*Please note that the costs are subject to change as per the current rate of conversions

Vietnam Visa Requirements for Indian Nationals

For Indian nationals visiting Vietnam, there are different visa options based on your travel purpose:

• Tourist Visa (C1): Allows a 30-day stay. Valid for 6 months. Ideal for sightseeing and exploration.
• Business Visa (B3): Permits stays up to 3 months. Suitable for business visits and meetings.
• Transit Visa: Provides a 5-day stay. Perfect for short tours. Arranged through travel agencies.

Visa costs depend on the type and processing speed:

• Single Entry Visa:
• 1 Month: Starts at $17 (INR 1,428 approx), Good for short trips.
• 3 Months: Starts at $25 (INR 2,100 approx), Best for extended stays.
• Multiple Entry Visa:
• 1 Month: Starts at $20 (INR 1680 approx), Great for frequent travel.
• 3 Months: Starts at $65 (INR 5,459 approx), Ideal for business travellers.
• Expedited processing is available. Options include 1-day or 4-hour turnaround.

Required documents for Vietnam visa application:

• Passport-sized photograph.
• Bank statement.
• Proof of funds in your account.
• Cover letter explaining the visit's purpose.
• Passport with at least 6 months validity.
• Confirmed return ticket.
• Invitation letter from a Vietnamese host (for business purposes).

Gather these documents before applying. Pay the pre-approval fee in cash upon arrival. For further steps, check the official Vietnamese visa website.

10 Things to Know About Vietnam

You should always know a particular country's customs, rules, and life before you go on your journey. Here are 10 unique and intriguing things to know before travelling to Vietnam, especially for Indian visitors:

1. Stunning and Diverse Places

   Vietnam is home to many natural treasures, such as the terraced rice fields of Sapa and the beautiful limestone cliffs of Halong Bay. If you're into caves, don't miss Phong Nha-Ke Bang, home to Son Doong, the most extensive cave system in the world. Vietnam's natural beauty offers something for everyone, from beach lovers to mountain trekkers.

2. Vietnamese Coffee Culture

   Vietnam has a distinctive coffee culture and is one of the world's largest coffee exporters. Try local favourites like iced coffee with condensed milk (cà phê sữa đá) or egg coffee, a unique blend of coffee with egg yolk and sugar. These drinks are a must-try for coffee lovers.

3. Motorbike Travel Adventures

   For those who enjoy adventure, renting a motorbike is a popular way to explore Vietnam. Although city traffic can be chaotic, it's an ideal way to see the countryside at your own pace. If you're up for it, motorbike tours offer an immersive experience of Vietnam's rural landscapes.

4. Respecting Local Etiquette

   Vietnamese culture is very respectful and courteous. A slight bow with a smile is a standard greeting, and permanently remove your shoes before entering homes or temples. It's also polite to hand over items with both hands, which shows respect.

5. Eco-friendly Travel Options

   Vietnam is embracing sustainable tourism. Many places offer filtered water stations, reducing plastic waste. Islands like Phu Quoc are working to protect marine ecosystems. Consider carrying a reusable bottle to minimise your environmental impact while travelling.

6. Delicious Street Food and Regional Dishes

   Vietnamese cuisine is a highlight of any trip, with street food like banh mi, pho, and bun cha being popular and affordable. Each region has its specialities, so trying various dishes is a great way to explore the local flavours.

7. Intriguing Cultural Beliefs

   Vietnam has unique superstitions, such as avoiding the number four, which sounds like “death” in Vietnamese. Whistling at night is also considered bad luck, as it's believed to attract spirits. Respecting these customs shows cultural sensitivity.

8. Vibrant Festivals

   If you visit during the Lunar New Year or Tet, you'll experience colourful parades, lion dances, and traditional foods. The Mid-Autumn Festival is another exciting time, with lantern processions and mooncakes. Festivals offer a fantastic way to connect with local traditions.

9. Convenient Travel and Transportation

   Domestic flights, sleeper buses, and trains make country-wide travel easy. VietJet and Bamboo Airways offer budget air travel if long-distance travel is needed. Grab is popular for shorter trips, and renting bicycles is a great way to explore smaller towns. Plan your transport according to the regions you visit for the best experience.

10. Travel Insurance

    One of the most important things to do before going to Vietnam is to have travel insurance policy. Though not compulsory, it might keep you away from a wide range of risks like medical mishaps, cancellation of the trip, baggage loss, or any other, for that matter. It has given you that comfort where you can have good times without inhibitions. Thus, do not forget to read through that policy carefully to ensure that you obtain the right coverage for your needs.

Travel Tips for Vietnam

Before starting your journey there are essential things to do before travelling to Vietnam to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. From managing payments and preparing for the climate to understanding local customs, here are vital tips to consider:

1. Organise Payment Methods

   Vietnam is cash-friendly, especially in small markets and eateries. Significant hotels accept cards, but ATMs are widely available for cash withdrawals. It's wise to carry sufficient Vietnamese Dong in small denominations for convenience.

2. Stay Connected with Wi-Fi

   Vietnam has excellent Wi-Fi availability in most public places. Consider purchasing a local SIM card from Vinaphone, Viettel, or Mobifone for affordable mobile data, allowing you to stay connected throughout your trip.

3. Save Emergency Numbers

   Familiarise yourself with local emergency contacts: dial 113 for police, 115 for medical emergencies, and 114 for fire services. Save these numbers and your embassy's contact details on your phone before departure.

4. Prepare for Weather Variations

   The climate varies significantly. Pack light clothing for the southern regions and warmer layers for the north's cooler seasons. Waterproof items are a must if visiting during the rainy season, from May to November.

5. Mind the Time Difference

   Vietnam is in the UTC +7 time zone, 1.5 hours ahead of Indian Standard Time. Remember this when planning virtual meetings or coordinating with family and friends back home.

6. Navigate Traffic Safely

   Streets in big cities are busy, with motorbikes being the central transport. Use pedestrian crossings where available and walk steadily when crossing roads. Staying alert will help you navigate the traffic safely.

7. Learn Basic Vietnamese Phrases

   While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning phrases like "Xin chào" (Hello) and "Cảm ơn" (Thank you) can enhance your interactions and show respect for local culture.

8. Opt for Bottled Water

   Avoid drinking tap water and rely on bottled or filtered water, which is easily accessible. A reusable bottle is an eco-friendly option, as many cafes provide filtered water for refills.

9. Carry the Right Power Adapter

   Vietnam uses 220V power with plug types A, C, and D. Bring a universal adapter to ensure your devices' compatibility and avoid disruptions during your stay.

   *Disclaimer: All costs are approximate and are subject to change at the time of travel.