The Vietnam tourist attractions are famous sites that have been vastly recognized for their history and beauty. The temple of emperor hanh has been recorded as being one of the most visited historical monuments in the country.
It was first constructed at the end of the 10th century to commemorate emperor dong tsu. Another interesting site is vinh city which is considered one of Vietnam’s oldest cities.
What is the History of Vietnam?
Tribes in Vietnam have historically come together to build powerful dynasties. The legendary Hung kings controlled the Hong Bang Dynasty, which many consider being the beginning of the Vietnamese state.
Vietnamese independence was declared in 111 BC when China’s Han Dynasty took control of the country. For more than a millennium, Vietnam was a component of the Chinese empire. Ngo Quyen fought the Chinese in 938 AD, securing Vietnam’s freedom.
The Ly, Tran, and Le dynasties were among the many that controlled Vietnam at the time. The kingdom of Vietnam reached its zenith during the Le dynasty’s reign. When it conquered parts of the Khmer Empire and expanded southward.
City of Ho Chi Minh The French arrived in Vietnam in the 17th century. French Indochina was formed in the 19th century with the incorporation of Vietnam. France remained in power until 1954 when Ho Chi Minh’s communist army overthrew it.
Vietnam was split in two, with the Communist North dominating the country and the anti-Communist South opposing it.
With the United States aiding the South and communist countries assisting the North, a war raged for years in Vietnam. It wasn’t until the 20th century that the North prevailed, unifying the nation under communist control.
Why is Vietnam a Popular Tourist Destination?
Vietnam’s South China Sea country is noted for its beaches, rivers, Buddhist pagodas, and crowded cities throughout Southeast Asia. While Hanoi is the capital city, Ho Chi Minh is remembered as a massive marble tomb.
The former Saigon, now Ho Chi Minh City, is home to historic French colonial architecture, as well as museums dedicated to the Vietnam War and the C Chi underground network utilized by Viet Cong troops.
The country’s stunning beaches, affordable lodging, and delicious cuisine have made it a popular destination for tourists in the region.
Vietnam, on the other hand, has been stealing the Southeast Asian spotlight in recent years, because of its less-crowded and more affordable alternatives for travelers. Here are nine reasons why you should plan a trip to Vietnam soon.
1. The Food
Many nations’ flavors come together in Vietnamese cooking, which is well-known for its eclecticism. The ubiquitous banh mi sandwich is made with French baguettes and traditional Vietnamese contents like pork belly, pate, or fried eggs and tofu or fresh vegetables.
Banh mi sandwiches are everywhere. Vegetarians will be able to obtain tofu or seitan-based meat substitutes in most places because of the country’s large Buddhist population.
Of course, you can’t leave Vietnam without trying the world-famous Pho Noodle Soup or any of the other mouth-watering dishes.
2. Breathtaking Landscape
With its 2,000-mile coastline, Vietnam might appear to be three distinct countries. It’s possible for the country’s three main regions (northern Vietnam, central Vietnam, and South Vietnam) to experience wildly divergent weather conditions at the same time of year.
In the extreme north, it can be snowing, while in the south, it might be close to 90 degrees. From the mountains and bays of North Vietnam to the farmland of Central Vietnam and the deltas of South Vietnam, each place has its own distinct scenery.
3. The Language
Before traveling to a place where the native language is not English, it’s always a good idea to brush up on your foreign language skills.
Even Nevertheless, the fact that many Vietnamese individuals speak English provides some solace in the face of the difficult-to-learn, tonal Vietnamese.
In fact, all public school pupils are now required to take an English language course beginning in the third grade. A few Vietnamese words or phrases like “Xin Chao” (hello) and “cam on” (thank you) will go a long way in establishing a rapport with the locals.
4. Friendly and Hospitable Vietnamese
Locals in Vietnam were eager to assist visitors without asking for anything in return, making our trip a memorable one. It’s well worth your time to stop by and experience the local hospitality.
Our initial “no” here was taken as an answer, unlike in many other tourist destinations, so you can purchase without feeling pressured.
5. Affordability
Among budget travelers, Vietnam is a popular location. Traveling to other continents is still far more expensive than flying to the United States.
There is a price range for any wallet, from a five-star resort in Da Nang to a three-star accommodation near JFK. Most cities’ hostels and guesthouses cater to the budget traveler. Street cuisine is some of the tastiest in the world at a fraction of the cost.
A day in major cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City may be had for $15, even in the most populous districts.
6. Exquisite Cuisines
Vietnamese cuisine has long been a favorite of mine. Toronto’s Pho Hung on Spadina, New York’s Nam Son on Bowery, In Paris, the Lotus Blanc is located in the Bourgogne region.
They will never be able to match the authenticity of Vietnamese cuisine provided there (though they all do an awesome job).
Vietnamese cuisine is more than just pho and spring rolls; it differs from place to region, with beef and poultry becoming increasingly popular.
Nha Trang and Da Nang both have excellent seafood markets where you can get fresh fish caught that morning and given to you for a reasonable price that evening. The cost of a large king crab for two persons is around $8.
7. Traditional Festivals
Many of Vietnam’s festivals are unique to the country because of their lengthy history, rich heritage, and Buddhist influence, making them a lot of fun to learn about.
The Tet festival is a wonderful opportunity to observe how Vietnamese families commemorate their deep affection for one another and for their ancestors.
If Tet is confused with Chinese New Year, it could be seen as a slap in the face to some nationalists. It bears some resemblance to the Lunar New Year, but with a Vietnamese flavor. There are several ways to spend New Year’s Eve, such as camping out and making Chung cake over an open fire.
Hai Phong’s annual buffalo-fighting event attracts a large crowd, and the victorious buffalo is sacrificed in honor of the village god.
In Vietnam, even public holidays are worth participating in: on September 2, you’ll be able to see parades across the country.
The streets will be illuminated by red flags, and the sky will be filled with pyrotechnics at night as well. See what activities you may attend on your next trip by checking out our events page.
8. World Famous Beaches
Spending time in the sea beneath the sun’s rays is a wonderful way to unwind. Allow yourself to be soothed by the waves of Da Nang, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc island, or Mui Ne.
According to TripAdvisor, Vietnam is home to some of the world’s best beaches. Almost all of them are suitable for swimming, and many of them also offer a variety of water-based recreational activities. Kite running and windsurfing, for example, are available in Nha Trang.
Get away from it all at Da Nang and visit one of the world-class beach resorts. Mui Ne is a great place to enjoy the peace and quiet with a little added wildness as you prepare your seafood meal. Vietnam is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys the beach.
9. Fast and Easy Immigration Process
At first, glance, obtaining a visa for Vietnam appears cumbersome. After all, the country offers a 30-day visa-free stay.
Even if you don’t like it, you have to go to Vietnam, thus the process has been simplified. As an alternative to obtaining a visa through the Vietnamese embassy, visas are available upon arrival.
To get your letter of approval, all you have to do is go online and apply to a number of online travel businesses. The visa letter will be provided to you after 2 days. It will only take 3-5 working days if you depart from close proximity to the embassy.
Is Vietnam Safe to Visit?
Despite the country’s reputation as one of the safest in the world, it’s always a good idea to be prepared. You can travel to Vietnam with greater ease if you follow these health and safety recommendations. Lists of both public and private hospitals are provided below.
CONCERNS FOR CORONAVIRUS
Preventative Measures and Health Care Services
Since the outbreak of the new coronavirus (COVID-19) began, Vietnam has taken a number of proactive, comprehensive actions to safeguard the safety of its inhabitants and visitors.
If you or someone you know is sick with the virus and is having trouble breathing, you should phone the Vietnam health hotline right away at 19003228.
On flights, at airport terminals, and everywhere else people congregate, the Vietnamese Ministry of Health has issued an order. Everyone in the country — both Vietnamese and foreigners — wear facemasks to help stop the spread of the illness.
HEALTH ADVICE FOR VIETNAM TRAVELERS
Before you go
Be sure to get travel insurance before departing for Vietnam. Consult your doctor or a local travel clinic at least two months prior to your departure date to get the most up-to-date information on health hazards in Vietnam and to schedule any necessary vaccinations.
Pregnant women should seek the advice of their physicians for specific recommendations. While most anti-malarial medications and diarrhoeal therapies can be used safely during pregnancy, this isn’t always the case.
To ensure that you receive the proper treatment for any medical ailment or allergy, bring a doctor’s letter with you that explains what is wrong and what is needed. A medical kit that includes the following items is also highly recommended:
- Insect repellent with DEET as the active ingredient
- Pain treatment with paracetamol or ibuprofen
- Hydrocortisone ointment, for example
- Sunscreen
- Zertec and Benadryl are antihistamines used to treat allergies.
- Bacitracin for wound care, such as Neosporin
- Diarrhea treatment, such as Imodium
Be sure to bring plenty of your prescribed medications with you when visiting Vietnam, as they may be hard to come by.
Hospitals in Vietnam
English-speaking employees can be found in state-owned and private hospitals in major cities like Hanoi, Danang, and Ho Chi Minh City. Rural locations in Vietnam may be distant from the nearest pharmacy or hospital, despite the prevalence of tiny pharmacies throughout the country.
COMMON HEALTH ISSUES IN VIETNAM
Pollution in Vietnam
Asthma and allergy symptoms can be worse by air pollution. A scratchy throat and nasal leak are among the signs and symptoms to look out for.
If you suffer from respiratory diseases, wear a tiny mask while traveling in urban areas or plan to spend more time in the countryside if you can.
Mosquito-borne Diseases
Those who live in rural areas are at an increased risk of developing malaria. If you’re planning a trip to one of Vietnam’s more isolated regions, you may want to consider taking malaria prevention medication.
Dengue fever is on the rise in Southeast Asia, with the Mekong Delta, which includes Ho Chi Minh City, becoming a hotspot. Wearing insect spray at dawn and dusk is the greatest way to avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes, given there are no vaccines available.
Safety Concerns in Vietnam
Vietnam is a year-round hot and humid place. The sun’s might should not be taken lightly. Wearing sunscreen throughout the day is the greatest way to avoid getting sunburned. Reapplication is especially important when visiting beaches.
Aside from dehydration and heat exhaustion, which can cause symptoms like headaches and irritability, there are other issues.
Water is essential. Overexposure to the sun can lead to heatstroke, a more dangerous condition that may necessitate hospitalization. See a doctor right away if you’re feeling weak, dizzy, or nauseous, or if you have a fever higher than 41°C.
Food-related Illnesses
When visiting a foreign country, many people worry about getting traveler’s diarrhea. In rural locations, use bottled water and avoid using ice.
Restaurants with a high customer turnover and food that is freshly prepared are the best places to avoid getting bacteria. In general, street food in Vietnam is safe, but you should use caution when purchasing from individual vendors.
Take rehydration salts and stay hydrated if you’re experiencing stomach troubles or diarrhea. Consult a physician if the symptoms persist.
Critter Bites
When sleeping in hostels and other communal dormitories, and occasionally even in hotels, they might be an issue. When it comes to fleas, bed bugs, or lice, go to your local clinic for assistance. If you are dealing with animals, whether wild or domestic, be on the lookout for rabies. Tour Ha Long Bay without encountering the monkeys on Cat Ba Island. If you’re going on a safari in the jungle, keep an eye out for venomous snakes and ticks. If you’ve been bitten, get emergency medical attention.
SAFETY TIPS FOR TRAVELLING VIETNAM
Petty Theft
Small-scale theft is common in the larger cities of Vietnam; yet, the country is quite safe overall. Drive-by robberies are the most common type of robbery, therefore it’s best not to leave your camera or phone out on the street.
Keep your camera near to your body and away from the flow of traffic when taking images on the sidewalk.
In Ho Chi Minh City, women, in particular, should be cautioned about leaving their baggage unattended. Place your baggage in the seat compartment or hang them from the front of the bike when riding a motorcycle. Snatching a bag from a person’s shoulder or from a bike basket is a simple task.
Before you leave your room at a hotel or guesthouse, secure your valuables in the safe or put them in your bags.
In general, it’s a good idea to be cautious with your belongings, keep an eye on your baggage, and avoid flashing huge quantities of cash or high-end technology while traveling through rural areas.
Unfortunately, if you are the victim of theft, law authorities can do little to recover your stolen property.
Taxi Scams
Overcharging, meter rigging, confusing currency, and pre-set rates are all common ploys used in taxi scams in Vietnam. In addition to Mai Linh and Vinasun, you may rely on these two companies.
In addition to modern vehicles and sealed meters, both of these companies offer a pick-up service in most Vietnamese cities and towns. It is possible to begin your search for them the moment you set foot in one of Vietnam’s several international airports.
Tourist Scams
Vietnam is working hard to improve its tourism offerings, but some tour operators and brokers continue to break the law.
Be sure to only book Halong Bay cruises through reputable businesses. To prevent getting conned out of money when on a tour of Vietnam, use a reputable travel agency instead of a shady one-stop-shop.
For Female Travellers
The country of Vietnam is generally safe for women to visit, and they will be welcomed. It’s advisable to respect Vietnamese culture and avoid showing too much skin when visiting the country.
Women traveling alone should be prepared to answer queries about why they are doing so. The questions are usually innocent and prompted by a desire to learn more.
In Vietnam, there are very few cases of violence against women. If you’re going home late, it’s a good idea to take a taxi rather than walk the streets alone.
What Part of Vietnam has the Best Beaches?
Vietnam’s coastline boasts hidden coves, powdery sands, and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling. These are Vietnam’s nicest beaches for lazy days in the sun and romantic evenings watching the sun go down over the horizon.
1. Long Beach, Phu Quoc
Long Beach (Bai Trong) is a 20-kilometer stretch of mostly deserted soft yellow sand and swaying coconut palms along the west coast of Phu Quoc Island.
This beach is ideal for sunbathing, watching the sunset, and swimming in the ocean. One of Phu Quoc’s finest restaurants.
Where to stay
It’s not by accident that Cassia Cottage’s restaurant, The Spice House, is named after cinnamon, nutmeg, and other aromatic spices. There is plenty of room in even the tiniest rooms, and the swimming pools are a treat to enjoy.
What to do
At three different locations, you’ll have the opportunity to swim and snorkel among an incredible array of aquatic species.
2. Phu Quoc’s Star Beach.
The east coast of Phu Quoc is less popular than the west, yet it is just as gorgeous. Known as “Star Beach” by locals, this stretch of pristine sand and crystal-clear water is one of the island’s most picturesque spots.
There are a few beach eateries and kayak rentals available during the summer, as well as half-day snorkeling expeditions on a boat.
What to do
Visiting Star Beach on a day trip is a viable option, as housing options are still quite limited, like this tour spanning the entire south of the island.
3. City Beach, Nha Trang
As the country’s most popular beach resort, Nha Trang is regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in the country.
The sea and the city are connected by six kilometers of sand, with rolling waves on one side and cafes, restaurants, and some unique modern sculptures on the other.
Consider the turbulent waters of November through December when the beach is less appealing for watersports and day trips by boat, as well as fresh pineapple.
Where to stay
Located at the northern end of the beach, Sunrise Nha Trang Beach Property & Spa is an opulent, rambling hotel with a typical colonial design.
There are a few tiny rooms, however, upgrading to a suite will provide you with a jacuzzi on your balcony with views of the sea.
What to do
A full-day fishing and snorkeling tour is the best way to ensure that your catch is as fresh as possible.
4. Hon Chong Beach, Nha Trang
There is a secluded beach just north of Nha Trang called Hon Chong. It’s less elegant than the one in the city center, but the nighttime views of the city center across the bay make up for it.
Seafood eateries abound at the far end of the city. The rocky outcrop with a view of the city is also well worth a visit.
What to do
Visit the beach and the city of Nha Trang at the same time. Admire the cathedral, old temples, markets, and much more. – Wikipedia
5. Doc Let Beach, Hon Khoi peninsula
Doc Let beach, located on the beautiful Hon Khoi peninsula, is an ideal spot for a day of sunbathing. Casuarinas (evergreen trees) and white sands create a peaceful, uncrowded sight. It’s possible to get a good night’s sleep while still having access to some of the most beautiful beaches in the area.
Where to stay
The Paradise Resort offers a few large rooms and a few modest bungalows, as well as a shady terrace facing the beach, and is an inexpensive yet noticeably tranquil resort. Three meals a day are included in the price, as well as free kayak and fishing equipment rentals.
6. Ho Coc Beach, Ho Coc
Ho Coc’s five-mile-long length of golden sand is a breathtakingly beautiful and often uninhabited beach. If sunbathing gets too much, the Binh Chau Hot Springs are just a short distance away.
What to do
Take a day excursion from Ho Chi Minh City to learn about the neighboring dragonfruit fields and nature reserves, and then relax on the beach with a coconut in your hand for an afternoon of fun.
7. Dai Lanh, Hon Ghom peninsula
The beaches on the Hon Ghom peninsula are virtually uninhabited and seem to go on forever. Near Dai Lanh.
A little fishing village at the northern end of a one-kilometer-long beach, nestled between the South China Sea and a blanket of green mountains, is one of the greatest places to stay in the area.
8. My Khe, Quang Ngai
There are seven kilometers of powder-soft sand and casuarinas (evergreen trees) surrounding My Khe in Quang Ngai, which is ideal for swimming.
Fishermen’s boats are moored off the shore, and there are a few eateries that only become crowded on the weekends.
9. An Bang, Hoi An
It’s become an eyesore and has lost its status as the go-to beach near Hoi An since the popular Cua Dai Shore, a short bike ride from Hoi An, was seriously hit by erosion, leading to cement sea defenses and sandbags along the beach.
Because An Bang Beach is so close, it’s a popular destination for both ex-pats and visitors alike. Even if you just want to sit on the sand, you’ll have to buy a drink at one of the beachside restaurants if you want to get a chair (in some places, they expect food).
The Chám Islands, which are just off the coast, may be seen from the sand at this low-key beach, which has lovely sand and is an excellent place to swim (a good diving spot).
Where to stay
Friendly and family-run, An Bang Garden Beach Homestay is just a 5-minute walk from the beach and offers only four rooms nestled in a well-managed garden. Air conditioning and either a small balcony or patio are standard in every room.
What to do
An electric scooter is a great way to see the countryside and get a feel for local life in Vietnam.
10. Binh Ba Island, Khanh Hoa
Binh Ba Island is around 60 kilometers from Nha Trang in Cam Ranh Bay. While it’s doubtful that the typical traveler will visit this island because of its military ties, those who do will find pristine views and beaches as well as world-class snorkeling.
11. Con Son Island, Con Dao Archipelago
Even though Lo Voi and An Hai are the most popular beaches in the immediate vicinity of Con Son, Dam Trau and Bat Dat Doc offer just as much fun for those looking to get away from it all.
Where to stay
There is a good swimming pool, decent rooms, and a large buffet breakfast at Con Dao Resort, although it is starting to show its age. Boat tours and car rentals can be arranged through the staff.
12. Ca Na, The southern coast
With its invitingly clean water and healthy, yet razor-sharp, coral, Ca Na’s beach is lined with numerous parked coracles.
Just 2 kilometers to the south, there’s another good length of the beach for those looking for a bit more privacy.
Where to stay
For a site as far out in the wilderness as Ca Na, the Hon Co Resort is a pleasant surprise for anyone on a tight budget.
Bungalows are an option, although the hotel’s main focus is on domestic travelers, and the karaoke room can get rather loud.
13. Ninh Chu Beach, Ninh Chu
Ninh Chu Beach, located just north of Phan Rang, is a nice, wide crescent of sand. Despite the fact that it is less frequented by visitors than Mui Ne or Nha Trang, this beach is nevertheless a pleasant place to visit during the week for activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and playing beach sports.
Where to stay
At the far northern end of the bay, the Saigon – Ninh Chu Hotel & Resort offers well-furnished, large rooms with thick carpets, as well as executive suites with views of the beach from every bathroom. Additionally, there’s a large swimming pool, tennis courts, a spa, and a fine dining restaurant that’s arguably the greatest deal in town, with oysters cooked in lemongrass for 110,000 yen.
14. My Khe, Da Nang
My Khe, a long length of sand south of Da Nang famous with seafood-loving locals, was formerly the destination for R&R flights for US Marines during the war.
Where to stay
Sofia Boutique Hotel – If you’re looking to stay near the beach but don’t want to pay a fortune, this is a good option. All of the rooms are bright and well-kept, and staff members go out of their way to assist guests in every way possible.
What to do
With a private, English-speaking guide, you can explore Da Nang at your own pace and in your own time. This day tour can be tailored to your interests, including stops at marketplaces, pagodas, beaches, and more.
15. Quy Nhon, Binh Dinh province
In spite of its lack of beauty, the beach in front of Quy Nhon’s little coastal town is virtually entirely devoid of tourists.
Those looking to get away from the crowds may do so here, which only adds to the town’s allure.
Where to stay
It’s a great value for money, with just five rooms, but you won’t spend a lot of time in them because the beach is right outside your door and the views are simply breathtaking. Haven, In addition, there’s a good restaurant on site.
16. Non Nuoc Beach, Da Nang
An untidy settlement of stone carvers, Non-Nuoc has been home to the locals since the fifteenth century. Non-Nuoc Beach is a nice stretch of sand that competes with its northern neighbor.
My Khe, for visitors, can be reached by using the paved road east from the settlement. However, riptides can be extremely dangerous because of the powerful undertow off this coast.
Where to stay
This is the Hyatt Regency. The Marble Mountains are just a short walk away from this secluded beachfront resort, which offers spacious accommodations with balconies overlooking a massive pool.
There are a number of on-site restaurants and cafes, and the personnel is as helpful and efficient as you would expect.
17. Cat Co 1, 2 & 3, Cat Ba
On the island of Cat Ba, just west of Ha Long Bay, three small, sandy beaches may be found to the east of Cat Ba Town.
A cliffside walkway connects One and Three, which is a joy to walk at any time of day or night, with a calmer refuge called Cat Co 2.
What to do
Cruise from Hanoi to Cat Ba and other less-known parts of Ha Long Bay, like this three-day luxury cruise.
Where to stay
Make the most of your time in Cat Ba by taking a day trip to Monkey Island, which offers a breathtaking view of the island and water.
18. Doi Duong, Phan Thiet
Phan Thiet, the understated capital of Binh Thuan Province, attracts fewer tourists than the nearby beaches of Mui Ne.
However, for some, the lack of tourists is an appeal in and of itself. This is without a doubt one of Vietnam’s finest beaches, in our opinion. There is a length of the beach in Doi Doung that is popular with the locals.
From the main entrance on Nguyen That Thanh, walk northeast about 700 meters to reach the nicest part of the park.
19. Quan Lan, Bai Tu Long
On the outside edge of Ha Long Bay, the island of Quan Lan is a long, thin island. Most visitors flock to its east coast to enjoy the quiet, sandy beaches along the coast.
Because there aren’t many tourist attractions in this part of the world, the beaches here tend to be desolate, so be prepared to interact with the locals even more closely than usual.
20. Ha Long Bay
Despite the fact that Ha Long Bay does not have a beach, kayaking and swimming amongst phosphorescent plankton are also possible activities.
It can be chilly and rainy from November to March, making it difficult to enjoy the beauty and romance of the bay, but the stunning caverns and stunning scenery make up for this in the summer.
What is the Biggest Beach in Vietnam?
Phu Quoc is Vietnam’s largest island. Kien Giang Province includes Phu Quoc and its neighboring islands, as well as the far-off Tho Chu Islands. Home to Phu Quoc City, the island has a total area of 574 square kilometers (222 square miles) with a permanent population of 179,480.
There are 21 tiny islands that make up the island of Phu Quoc, which is located in the Gulf of Thailand. The administrative and main settlement on the island is Duong Dong ward, which is located on the west coast. A Thoi, located at the island’s southernmost tip, is the other ward.
Fishing, agriculture, and the burgeoning tourism industry are the mainstays of its economy. Due to the current surge in tourism, Phu Quoc has seen rapid expansion in its economy.
Several five-star hotels and resorts have been built as part of a slew of infrastructure projects. Phu Quoc International Airport serves as a gateway between Phu Quoc and the rest of Vietnam and the rest of the world.
Since March 2014, foreign tourists can visit Phu Quoc without a visa for up to 30 days in Vietnam. Phu Quoc Island and its surrounding islets were to be elevated to the status of a provincial city with special administration by 2017, according to official plans.
Phu Quoc’s Beaches & Nature
Vietnamese tourists flock to Phu Quoc because of its 150-kilometer shoreline, which features calm waves and crystal-clear waters.
There are 20 kilometers of sunset views on Long Beach if that’s more your style. Tree-lined beaches like Ganh Dau and Bai Thom are kept out of the public eye by gravel roads and quiet resorts further north.
The island’s mountain range can be trekked by the more adventurous, but even short treks through the evergreen forest yield waterfalls, rock pools, and caverns.. for the adventurous.
Heritage and Culture
Visiting a fish sauce factory in Phu Quoc is a great way to learn about the process of making this fermented delicacy. Make the most of your trip to Vietnam by dining on local delicacies such as black pepper-spiced shrimp at a floating restaurant in Ham Hinh, a traditional fishing village.
It’s not uncommon for tourists who want to learn more about Cayman’s culture and history to stop by the Cay Dua prison and the Cao Dai temple.
Both of which house temples dedicated to a unique religion that incorporates elements of Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, Confucianism, Hinduism, and Genie.
Phu Quoc Weather – When to Visit
With an average temperature of 27°C, Phu Quoc is a year-round paradise. The dry season, which lasts from October to March, is the coolest; the rainy season, which begins in April and May, is the warmest. Temperatures begin to drop in July, and they won’t return to normal until October.
Travel Advisory
Since March 2020, Vietnam’s borders have been blocked by tourists because of the COVID-19 epidemic. Since then, entry into the country has been restricted to citizens, diplomats, investors, and highly qualified foreign specialists.
No quarantine is required for those who have been vaccinated after November 2021, when the island of Phu Quoc will be open to anyone. Updates and instructions can be found by consulting the most recent travel advisory.
When is the Best Time to Visit Vietnam?
The best time to visit Vietnam is largely determined by where you start in the country’s north or south, as well as other factors like upcoming festivals and vacations. December through February is often the ideal time to visit Vietnam because the weather is milder and there are fewer rainstorms during this time of year.
Because of the country’s long, thin shape, each of the country’s three main areas (the north, the center, and the south) has its own distinct seasons and weather patterns. Both personal comfort and packing considerations must be taken into account while planning a trip to Vietnam.
A tropical climate can be found in the south, while Hanoi and other northern cities experience colder winters than many visitors imagine. Few places in Southeast Asia can compare to the cold of this region without traveling to higher altitudes.
The Weather in Vietnam
It’s possible to visit Vietnam at any time of year, but the weather is a major consideration, especially if you plan to engage in any outdoor activities.
In metropolitan locations, monsoon rains can be so intense that streets flood, and public transportation is totally shut down.
Despite the fact that it rains in Vietnam even in the dry season, December through April are the driest months to visit the south of the country (Saigon). In March and April, the heat and humidity can be oppressive before the monsoon rains arrive to bring relief in the summer months.
The best time to explore Vietnam’s northern regions is in the spring and fall (Hanoi). Temperatures can fall into the 50s at night during the winter months.
Extremely low temperatures have been observed. Visiting Halong Bay in the winter will necessitate a jacket, especially if you’re used to the sweltering heat of the south or other nations in Southeast Asia.
Traveling to Vietnam During the Monsoon
It is possible to travel to Vietnam during the monsoon season (April to October), but there are a few considerations to consider.
There will be fewer tourists and more bugs in the wet season. While negotiating lower hotel rates and cheaper tours is made simpler, outdoor activities like seeing Hue’s Citadel become rainy affairs.
Delays in transportation are inevitable. When it rains heavily for an extended period of time, buses may not operate, which may be for the best because the roads become flooded and dangerous to travel on. Even the low-lying lines of the north-south railway are inundated, resulting in delays in train service.
Traveling between Hanoi and Saigon? Make sure your timetable is adaptable in case of bad weather.
During the rainy season, flying into Vietnam may be a better option than having to travel vast distances overland.
Visiting Vietnam During the Season of Typhoons
A week-long downpour caused by tropical depressions and typhoons sweeping in from the east can derail travel plans no matter the season. They can wreak havoc in places susceptible to flooding.
Typhoon season normally ends in December, despite the fact that Mother Nature doesn’t always follow the rules. However, August is a common date for the beginning of the school year in Vietnam. Regardless of location (north, center, or southern). In general, October is a stormy month.
To be optimistic, typhoons rarely strike without warning. Observe weather patterns as you get closer to your departure date. It’s possible that planes may be delayed or diverted in the event of a typhoon.
Vietnam’s most important festivals and events
Tet, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year celebration, is the country’s most important national event.
During Tet, transportation, and lodgings go up in price or get booked solid as people migrate around the country to celebrate.
Nha Trang, a favorite beach destination for Chinese New Year tourists, saw a large influx of visitors from China. Even though Tet is a great time to visit Vietnam, your travel plans will be disrupted, so plan ahead and arrive early.
The date of Tet varies from year to year since it follows a lunisolar calendar, which coincides with the Chinese New Year. It is one of Asia’s major winter celebrations between January and February.
Other important national holidays include May 1 (International Worker’s Day) and September 2 (National Day) (National Day).
At the end of the Vietnam War in 1975, North and South Vietnam were reunited. Reunification Day is observed on April 30.
This is a period when many local families may be away from their homes. Chinese people celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival (also known as the Moon Festival) (based on the lunisolar calendar).
Spring
During the months of March and April, the average high temperature in Vietnam is 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Late April and early May are often the hottest and driest months of the year, respectively. On the plus side, there will be fewer people around.
Events to check out:
- The first Monday in May is observed as International Labor Day. The country’s principal squares come alive with parties and parades.
- The 30th of April is recognized as Saigon Liberation Day throughout Vietnam.
Summer
According to where you live in the United States, summertime temperatures can vary greatly. Highs often exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit in the South, and frequent, heavy showers are not uncommon.
Mosquitoes are at their peak in the northern half of the country, thanks to the frequent, heavy rainfall. Bring plenty of bug repellent.
Events to check out:
Every year on September 2, the Socialist Republic of Vietnam celebrates its National Day.
Fall
Typhoons can generate rough seas throughout September and October, prolonging the rainy season. Unwary visitors should also be aware that hurricanes frequently hit the central regions of Vietnam during the fall season.
Events to check out:
- The Do Son Buffalo Fighting Festival takes place in Haiphong in mid-September.
- On the same day in September (on the half-moon of the eighth lunar month, to be precise).
- The Festival is a popular event for children.
Winter
In December, the country finally dries out for the first time in years. Winter in Vietnam is ideal for beach holidays, however, the northern region can be chilly and dismal.
During this time of year, expect temperatures to hover around 50 degrees Fahrenheit and some rain.
Events to check out:
Tet Nguyen Dan (Vietnamese for “Lunar New Year”) is a four-day celebration that takes place all across Vietnam.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Vietnam has many tourist attractions for people of all ages. These attractions include the beaches, relaxing at Bali Hai Pier, and enjoying the various cuisines. For the adventurous adventurer, there are opportunities to trek through the jungle in search of Bigfoot or visit Ho Chi Minh City to visit a zoo with North Vietnamese tigers.
If you’re interested in any of these activities, then go ahead and book your trip today!
