Vietnam rewards preparation.
Before you go
- Visas — British passport holders need an e-visa, done online before you fly. It's quick; just do it early.
- Flights — expect a stopover; Hanoi and Saigon are around 12–13 hours from London.
- Money — the Vietnamese dong. You'll be a millionaire the moment you land; do the maths carefully.
- Vaccinations — check with your GP at least six weeks out. Nothing exotic, just standard advice.
On the ground
- Crossing the road — the golden rule: walk slowly and steadily, and the traffic flows around you. Don't stop, don't dart.
- Money handling — 10,000 dong is about 30p. Count your zeros.
- Bargain politely — markets expect it; shops with prices don't.
- Dress modestly at temples — shoulders and knees covered, shoes off where asked.
- Drink bottled water — and brush your teeth with it in rural areas.
- Street food safety — eat where it's busy and the food is cooked to order.
Food and staying healthy
- Go slow on the chilli — "khong cay" means "not spicy".
- Wash your hands — before street food, especially.
- Pace the coffee — Vietnamese coffee is rocket fuel.
- Stay hydrated — the humidity sneaks up on you.
Culture and etiquette
- Learn a few words — "xin chao" and "cam on" go a long way.
- Haggle with a smile — it's a game, not a conflict.
- Respect the war history — sites like the Cu Chi tunnels deserve quiet reflection.
Quick questions, answered
Do I need a visa for Vietnam?
Yes, British travellers need an e-visa, which is quick and done entirely online before you fly. We remind all our customers and double-check the requirements.
Is Vietnam safe for tourists?
Yes — it's one of the safer countries in the region. Petty theft around busy markets is the main thing to watch, so keep valuables close.
What's the currency and should I carry cash?
The Vietnamese dong, and yes — cash is king for street food and markets, while cards work in hotels and restaurants.
The best tip of all: let us handle the moving parts. Our Hanoi to Hoi An and family packages cover visas guidance, flights, transfers and guides — so you just enjoy it. Call 020 7946 0958.
