Vietnam Travel Guide and Weather in January | TripHawker

Key Tips for a Smooth trip to Vietnam

Remember that as a traveler, you play a role in representing your home country. We suggest embracing this opportunity to showcase its positive aspects.

Documents Required For Immigration

• Passport Size Photograph: 4x6 cm with plain white background
• A Passport with at least 6 months of validity from the date of travel
• E-Visa

To Apply for E-Visa Document should be in correct form as mentioned below

Clear Scanned Copy of Passport Front Page in JPG/JPEG/PNG file format

No Fingers - No Folded Page- No Corner Cut- No Blur

Passport Size Photograph: 

• Size 4x6 cm with plain white background
• Original Clicked Photograph Softcopy Required
• Full Face (70% Coverage)
• No Click of Photo of a Photograph

Note: Original Documents will be required at the time of Immigration.

Currency in Vietnam- Cash is the King

• Indian Rupees are not accepted in Vietnam.
• Cash is widely used, with Vietnamese Dong (VND) being the official currency
• Carry USD: It is recommended to bring $300-$400 USD in cash, which can be exchanged for VND at forex shops in Vietnam for more favourable rates
• Current rates: 1 INR = ~300 VND, 1 USD = ~25,000 VND.
• Cards: International debit and credit cards are widely accepted; however, it's advisable to carry cash, as some places may not accept cards.
• Currency Calculation Tip: Example: 300,000 VND ≈ ₹900 (remove 3 zeros and multiply by 3)

Tipping: Tipping in Vietnam is mandatory & already included in your package costing.

Network Connectivity

• Free Wi-Fi is available at the airport upon landing, useful for contacting your driver.
• You can purchase a Local Tourist SIM card at the airport or local telecom shop from the market.
• Local Sim Card Cost is approx. INR 500 to INR 700 with decent amount of data and calling minutes
• Viettel and Vinaphone offer good network coverage and data plans.
• Your Indian network will not work in Vietnam without an International roaming pack.
• You can also take an international roaming recharge if you want to use your Indian mobile network.
• WhatsApp works seamlessly for communication.

Weather

In January, Vietnam marks the dry season in most parts of the country, though weather conditions vary by region.

What to Pack

General

• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses for all regions.
• International travel adapter with all pins (Type A, C, F).
• Day back pack
• Power bank
• Toothpaste & Toothbrush
• Lip Balm & Moisturiser
• Body Spray
• Power Bank & Bluetooth Speaker

Clothes

For Northern Vietnam (Hanoi & Halong Bay):

• Warm clothing: lightweight jackets, sweaters, long-sleeved shirts, jeans, or warm pants.

• Comfortable walking shoes.

• Swimsuit and shorts for Halong Bay, if you’d like to note that swimming might not be ideal due to cooler temperatures.

• In evening and morning it may get colder in Hanoi

For Central Vietnam ( Hoi An & Da Nang):

• Regular summer clothes like T-shirts, shorts, skirts, and dresses

• Lightweight jacket or sweater for Ba Na Hills because its windy

• Raincoat or poncho (just in case)

For Southern Vietnam ( Ho Chi Minh City):

• Comfortable clothing for warmer southern regions.

• Carry versatile clothing that can be layered if needed.

Note: Stay informed about weather changes; check closer to your travel date for accurate forecasts, as conditions may vary.

Please take off your hats and sunglasses while going inside any religious place.

Meals

• Breakfast will be provided as per the chef’s special at the hotel.
• On Day 2 (Halong Bay Cruise), enjoy a Vietnamese local lunch with vegetarian options.
• While exploring local cuisine is encouraged, carry vegetarian snacks if you’re not comfortable with Vietnamese food.

Vietnamese Cuisine

• Pho Chay - (Noodle Soup with a flavorful Broth) - Veg
• Gỏi Cuốn Chay - (Vegetarian Spring Rolls) - Veg
• Bánh Xèo Chay - (Vegetarian Crispy Pancakes) - Veg
• Lotus Tea & Jasmine Tea
• Rượu gạo (Rice Wine) - Traditional Fermented Rice Alcohol

Indian cuisine is generally available in Vietnam, few good restaurant options are mentioned below

Hanoi : PK Spice / Hill Top Curry / Grills & Gravy
Da Nang : Mumtaz Indian Aroma / Indian Ganga Restaurant / Veda’s Kitchen
Ho Chi Mih City : Baba’s Kitchen / Shri Natraj Indian Cuisine

Basic Tips for a Smooth Trip to Vietnam

• Be Punctual: In group travel, punctuality is crucial to maintain the schedule. Activities often start early, so plan accordingly.

• Time Zone: Vietnam Time (GMT +7:00) is 1 hour 30 minutes ahead of India. Example: 12:00 PM IST = 1:30 PM VST.

• Power Outlets: Vietnam uses Type A, C, and F outlets. Ensure you have a universal adapter.

• Water: Avoid drinking tap water; opt for bottled mineral water.

• Shopping: There is no Maximum Retail Price (MRP) system. Bargain politely, starting at 50-70% of the quoted price.

• Google Translate: Download the Vietnamese language pack offline for seamless communication.

Basic Cultural Etiquette:

• Cooperate with local guides to ensure a memorable trip.

• Dress modestly when visiting temples and pagodas.

• Carry a scarf or shawl for covering shoulders if needed.

• Remove shoes before entering homes or religious sites.

• Bargain politely in local markets.

Transportation

• Grab App: Vietnam’s version of Uber. Affordable and reliable for local travel.

Local Markets: Use cash and bargain respectfully for the best deals.

Basic Greeting

The official language of Vietnam is Vietnamese. English is widely spoken.

Hello - Xin chào

Thank You- Cảm ơn

Goodbye - Tạm biệt