Best time to visit

The best time to visit Vietnam depends on the region due to the country's diverse climate. Generally, the most favorable time to visit is from November to April. During these months, the weather is more pleasant and dry, making it ideal for exploring the northern regions such as Hanoi and Ha Long Bay, as well as the central regions including Hoi An and Hue. The southern part of Vietnam, including Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, experiences warm and dry conditions from December to April. The rainy season, from May to October, can bring heavy rains and potential flooding, particularly in the central and southern regions, which might affect travel plans.

What to expect

Language: The official language of Vietnam is Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt). Vietnamese is a tonal language with six different tones, which can make it challenging for non-native speakers to learn. In major cities and tourist areas, many people, especially the younger generation, speak some English.

Currency: The official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND).

Safety: Vietnam is generally a safe country for travelers. However, like in any other destination, it's important to take standard precautions. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, particularly in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Scams can also be an issue, so it’s wise to be vigilant, especially when dealing with taxis and street vendors. Road safety can be a concern due to the chaotic traffic, so caution is advised when crossing streets or renting motorbikes.

Cuisine: Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its fresh ingredients, balanced flavors, and variety. Some must-try dishes include: Phở: A popular noodle soup consisting of broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat, usually beef or chicken. Bánh Mì: A Vietnamese sandwich made with a crispy baguette, filled with a variety of ingredients like pate, cold cuts, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. Gỏi Cuốn: Fresh spring rolls made with shrimp, herbs, pork, rice vermicelli, and other ingredients, wrapped in rice paper and served with dipping sauce. Bún Chả: A dish of grilled pork served over a bed of vermicelli noodles, with herbs and dipping sauce. Cao Lầu: A regional specialty from Hoi An, made with noodles, pork, greens, and crunchy rice crackers. Bánh Xèo: Savory pancakes made with rice flour, turmeric, and coconut milk, filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. Chè: A sweet dessert soup or pudding made with a variety of ingredients such as beans, fruit, and coconut milk.