EXOTISSIMO
Experts in Asia - in Asia
TRAVEL
Exo Travel Guides
Vietnam www.exotissimo.com
Introducing Vietnam
Seeing the real Vietnam with Exotissimo... Thank you for choosing Exotissimo Travel Vietnam to organize your travel arrangements in Vietnam. This document will give you some more information about the country, the different destinations to visit, useful information for travelers, a listing of the Exotissimo preferred hotels, reservations and booking procedures. Vietnam is an intriguing destination. At the crossroads of tradition and modernity, an eclectic mix of old and new, this country will reveal astonishing finds to every type of traveler. The old world charm is still retained amid the French influenced architectures, wide treelined boulevards gracing the cities and former imperial
capitals. History buffs can learn about Vietnam’s recent hard fought wars in the museums. Culture seekers will delight in the discovery of the diverse landscapes and everyday sights, from bustling floating markets, lush paddy fields to colorful hill tribes in the highlands. For beach lovers, Vietnam’s long coastline is framed with sandy beaches and clear seas with lots of opportunities for water-based adventures. Whatever your interest may be, we assure you that traveling with Exotissimo to explore Vietnam’s hidden treasures will surely be an impressive trip.
Where should I go in Vietnam? That depends how long you’ve got, what you want to see and what you want to do. The guide below should help you make those decisions. If you want to really discover Vietnam, you should set aside a couple of weeks to travel, meet the people and get some kind of understanding for this beautiful and fascinating country. Our shortest tours are half day excursions but the longer you’ve got the better. At Exotissimo we pride ourselves on being able to fill everybody’s travel plans with just the right mix. It will be our pleasure to make the suggestion and arrangements to allow you to make the most of your precious leisure time. After all, our team of Vietnamese and western travel enthusiasts work, live and travel all over the country and we would be happy to share our new discoveries with you.
When to go to Vietnam? Vietnam’s weather varies greatly from north to south with each area marked by slightly different seasons and climates. Because of these regional variations, a part of the country is seasonable at any time of year. The north, overall, tends to be cooler than the rest of the country. During the winter, from November until February, the day time temperature is pleasantly cool and the weather is often damp. To the far north in places like Sapa, there is occasionally freezing temperatures during this time. The north begins to warm up in March and stays dry and warm until May. From June to October, the north is hot and rainy making it a fairly unpleasant place to travel. Overall the best time to visit the north is from November until April. Central Vietnam experiences warm weather from July to October and wet, colder weather from November to May. Frequent typhoons hit the central coast from August to October which can cause flooding and disrupt
travel plans. Although the temperature remains fairly steady throughout the year, Southern Vietnam has two seasons. The dry season lasts from December to May, while from May to November is the rainy season. Most of the rain is in the afternoon and only lasts a short time so it is unlikely to disrupt touring plans. The Chinese new year of Tet is celebrated throughout Vietnam in late January or early February. During this time, transport options fill up quickly and lots of restaurants and tourist sites are closed so it is not recommended to travel to Vietnam then. This is a guide to the best of the best of Vietnam filled with ideas for travel sightseeing and accommodation with a few insider tips along the way.
Hanoi Lying in the heart of the Red River Delta, the Vietnamese capital city of Hanoi blends the old world charm with the dynamism of a rising Asian city. Its legacy as a former French territory is still evident from the French-inspired features - lakes and parks, colonial architecture and broad tree-lined boulevards - that still dot the present cityscapes. The city has undergone dramatic transformation over the last thirty years and is now seeing a burgeoning population paralleled by rising motorbike ownership, a rapidly expanding retail sector and a flourishing art scene. Yet when compared with Ho Chi Minh City, the economic powerhouse in the south, Hanoi still retains a romantic and elegant atmosphere.
What to see in Hanoi? Hanoi is one of Asia’s most fascinating cities with its unique blend of western and oriental charm. You can wander through the 36 streets in the Old Quarter, rummage for souvenirs and witness the artisans working on their specialty crafts. As the oldest university (established since 1070), the Temple of Literature and its five courtyards retains a scholarly atmosphere and makes a peaceful respite from Hanoi’s busy
streets. Pay homage to the late Ho Chi Minh at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and his ‘house on stilts’ and learn why “Uncle Ho” is such a respected figure to the Vietnamese. Vietnam is a culturally diverse country and the fascinating ways of life of her 54 ethnic groups can be seen at the Museum of Ethnology.
To check out the budding arts scene, pop into the dozens of art galleries that stock works ranging from traditional to modern. Some of our favorites, the Apricot Gallery and Art Vietnam have consistently received positive accolades from art connoisseurs and travelers. Although modern entertainment outlets are readily available in Hanoi, why not opt to catch a water puppet show - a unique cultural form of North Vietnam? For early risers, head to Hoan Kiem Lake or Park of Reunification (formerly Lenin Park) and observe Vietnamese in their synchronized Tai Chi moves. On fine afternoons, stroll through the French quarter, sip an aromatic cup of coffee on the sidewalk and observe the bustling street life. If you have more time to spare, there are many interesting locales in Hanoi’s outskirts that are lesser visited by tourists. Tam Coc in Ninh Binh - with its series of limestone rock formations jutting out from a sea of rice paddies, is a scenic and surreal place to visit. Nearby Hoa Lu also offers similar landscapes of rocky outcrops - no less spectacular when
compared to Tam Coc - as well as 10th century relics from when the area was the capital’s country. To learn about Vietnam’s pottery history, a visit to Bat Trang Ceramic Village should be on the travel agenda. Here, you could try your hands at making the ceramics, but it is much easier to be enticed into owning the exquisite vases, bowls and dishes produced from the hands of the talented Bat Trang potters. For lovers of indigenous crafts, the Van Phuc Weaving Village lures visitors with its bewildering range of silk products. Explore the rustic landscapes by cycling around the city’s northern outskirts in Dong Ho Village, which is also famous for its painting styles that depict the traditional Vietnamese village lives. Follow the trails of Vietnamese pilgrims and embark on a 2-hour trek up Huong Son Mountain to Perfume Pagoda (or Chua Huong), with lots of photographic opportunities along the way.
Where to stay in Hanoi? When in Hanoi, a stay in a colonial-style hotel should not be missed. The Sofitel Metropole Legend Hanoi is a celebrated Hanoi institution which boasts of an impressive guest list. For a lavish stay, the InterContinental Westlake Hanoi tops with its chic Vietnamese décor and waterfront location by the historic West Lake. Nearby the
famous Hoan Kiem Lake, the boutique Maison D’Hanoi Hanova Hotel appeals to discerning travelers with its 55 tastefully designed rooms. For accommodations that are more wallet-friendly but yet present good value, we
prefer The Silk Path Hotel - conveniently located within walking distance to the Old Quarter and other city attractions.
Where to eat in Hanoi? For street eats, Pho Bo (beef noodle soup), Bun Cha (grilled meat with dry noodles) and Banh Cuon (pho package with beef rolls) usually make good introduction to the local cuisine. For delicious pho eats, consider the ubiquitous Pho 24 which offers different varieties of the much-loved Vietnamese beef noodle. The popular Quan An Ngon makes a good introduction to Vietnamese cuisine with its scrumptious and inexpensive offering in a courtyard setting. A classic Hanoi dish, Cha Ca - grilled fish with tumeric usually served with rice noodles - is best savored on Cha Ca Street where this northern specialty dish originated at Cha Ca La Vong Restaurant. Highway 4 is a recommended stop for its complete dining experience with its delectable range of traditional Vietnamese liquor and specialty dishes. The bustling Bao Khanh Street, lined with numerous cafés and open-air eateries, is a great hunt for a cup of Vietnamese coffee while people-watching.
Housed in an old colonial building, both Wild Lotus and Seasons of Hanoi are stylish establishments that serve rich Vietnamese menu with tasteful Asian décor. For French - Vietnamese fusion fare, opt for Didier Corlou’s La Verticale which showcases an impressive selection in an intimate setting. For the ultimate dining experience, head to one of the homes of the celebrated chefs who will whip up a tantalizing dinner for you.
What to see in Hue? Step into imperial times with a visit to the large Hue Citadel, the prime attraction of Hue. There, the walled interior houses the Forbidden City - a sprawling complex of palaces, temples, pavilions and galleries. Enjoy a romantic boat ride along the Perfume River on the way to explore the royal tombs of Tu Duc, Minh Mang and other former emperors that lie scattered around the countryside. The covered bridge, lush paddy fields and cottage industries that dot the city outskirts offer varied and interesting excursions. Hue is good for a day trip out to the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), a buffer site between North and South Vietnam that saw intense fighting during the American War. Traverse the quaint streets of Hue on a cyclo or bicycle and take in Hue’s unique atmosphere. Do not forget to visit nha vuon, elegant historic garden houses that are exclusive to Hue.
Hue An imperial city during the Nguyen dynasty, Hue still retains much of its royal heritage and laidback atmosphere. Straddling the banks of Song Huong River (Perfume River) in Central Vietnam, it is best known for its historic monuments and architecture and has been appointed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Where to stay in Hue? La Residence Hotel & Spa is the city’s top accommodation with its enchanting blend of French colonial décor and tranquil location by the Perfume River. In the quaint countryside, Pilgrimage Village lures with its harmonious combination of a rustic village setting and modern art elements.
Hoi An Situated along the south central coast of Vietnam, Hoi An is an outstanding example of a well-preserved ancient town that has been designated a World Heritage Site. Known as Faifo in the past, it was a major port town that boasted multi-cultural influences from the 16th – 18th centuries. Today, it is a quaint and picturesque town that can be easily explored on foot.
Where to go in Hoi An? Where to eat in Hue? The recommended street eats are Banh Khoai (traditional savory pancake), Com Hen (tiny mussels served on rice with soup) and Bun Bo Hue (hot and steamy beef noodle soup). Modeled after a style house, Ancient Hue offers imperial style cuisine. Near the Citadel, Y Thao Garden is a simple yet charming choice. Dine in style in the grounds of the former mandarin houses or hobnob with the locals as you tuck into a bowl of noodles at the Dong Ba Market. For the romantics, a private dinner cruise down the Perfume River makes a memorable experience.
Hoi An’s tailors are renowned for their high workmanship, so be sure to shop for tailor-made clothes. Do also shop for interesting souvenirs such as silk lanterns and custom made jewelry. Head to the Old Town where historical sights await. There, you can cross the Japanese covered bridge, stroll through the cultural halls, enjoy a traditional music performance, and explore the layout of an ancient house.
Where to stay in Hoi An?
Ho Chi Minh City
Situated close to the old town, the Ha An Hotel offers a pleasant stay amid its shophouse-style property and manicured gardens. For a luxurious resort stay, it has to be The Nam Hai which sits on a tranquil stretch of palm-lined beach facing China Sea. Overlooking the scenic Do River and lush paddy fields, the gorgeous Life Resort is highly favored for its proximity to Cua Dai beach and the old quarter.
Where to eat in Hoi An?
Just a few kilometers out of town, Cua Dai Beach’s golden sands provide a nice place to unwind over fresh seafood. Explore the small villages on a bicycle and discover artisans crafting pottery in the narrow streets. For day trips out of Hue, opt for the historical Cham statues at My Son or to the Marble Mountain where caves, temples and magnificent views await at the summit.
In Hoi An, do not miss the local specialty Cao Lau which is a dry noodle dish with a tantalizing touch. Other delicacies include Hoa Hong (white ‘rose‘ dumplings) and Mi Quang (noodle soup with a foray of ingredients). With only 6 tables, the seafood specialty restaurant Hoi An Hai San features a cozy and intimate atmosphere but pre-booking is required if you want guaranteed seats. The funky Mango Rooms serves fusion food at its best – delectable dishes with great visual appeal. If you are eager to learn local culinary recipes, be sure to join in the cooking classes at Tra Que Organic Vegetable Village which produces the country’s finest organic food. For an original culinary experience in Hoi An, indulge in a private picnic on a deserted beach on the Cham Island (accessible by speedboat).
Commonly referred to as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) is Vietnam’s largest city and undisputed commerce capital. It is a dynamic city that is currently enjoying the fruits of Vietnam’s economic boom – lavish hotels, decadent restaurants and trendy nightspots are continually added to the cityscape. The younger residents may seem status oriented and eager to flank their new-found wealth, a significant change from the war-savaged population barely one generation ago. Yet against the backdrop of new-found confidence, frenetic development and urban bustle, the boutique charm of HCMC still lives on amongst the tree-lined boulevards, quaint wooden shops, old temples and colonial architecture. The city is quickly making a name for itself in Vietnamese crafts shopping, an emerging art scene and a wide range of dining pleasures (with almost every imaginable cuisine available).
For more ‘posh’ buys, head to art galleries and fashion shops that line Dong Khoi. If you are keen to own a piece of propaganda art, Dogma stocks a unique range. History buffs should reminisce at Rex Hotel, where media briefings known as ‘five o’clock follies’ to international correspondents were held during the Vietnam War. For a night out, hit the city’s chic bars and restaurants that are crowded by the rich and trendy.
What to see in HCMC? Within the city, HCMC has many sights that should not be missed. A city tour of the Opera House, Le Loi Street, Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral and War Remnants Museum on a classic Citroen or Vespa scooter are nostalgic ways to be introduced to this former colonial city. Ben Thanh Market, a massive old-style market in the central district, is a place to rummage for knock-offs and interesting souvenirs. However, do not forget to bargain hard (but in a polite manner) for your purchases.
If you have a bit of time to spare, make a day trip outside of Ho Chi Minh City to the Cu Chi Tunnels. This network of over 200 kilometers of tunnels was used by the Vietcong during the American war and offers a fascinating look into the lives of the inhabitants during the war-time era. This can easily be combined with a stop at Wildlife at Risk (WAR) rescue centre, a nonprofit organization to stop illegal wildlife trade, and Tay Ninh Temple, home to the intriguing Cao Dai religion.
Where to stay in HCMC?
What to eat in HCMC?
Park Hyatt Saigon is the city’s most luxurious hotel that packs world-class restaurants and spa services in a classic French colonial building. One of the finest in its class, the Caravelle Hotel offers commanding views of the city and overlooks Lam Son Square and the Opera House. Recently refurnished, Palace Hotel Saigon retains its original French architecture and is favored for its convenient location in the city’s heart. Another landmark building from the colonial era, Hotel Majestic exudes old world charm combined with excellent service and rooms come with either pool or river views. The cosy and unique Sanouva is well located close to Ben Thanh market and boasts charms with its well furnished interiors and friendly staff.
Street eats can be found in almost every corner of this bustling city. To be inducted into Southern Vietnamese cuisine, opt for Lau (hotpot with cook your own ingredients served on the side), Com Nieu (broken rice served out of a claypot) and Banh Xeo (pancakes cooked over a flame). To enjoy the clatter of an authentic Vietnamese eatery, Com Nieu will surely leave an impression when the waiters fling claypots across the restaurant. Dong Pho is the best place to enjoy a meal of traditional Hue dishes in Ho Chi Minh City.
If you are looking for authentic Vietnamese cuisine in an old world setting, Anh Vien receives the thumbs-up – it offers superb food and tasteful décor in an old French villa. Tucked in a former opium refinery (hence the name) in a small alley, the Refinery is a French bistro that serves a wide range of light eats in classy décor. Just next door, Hoa Tuc serves a tantalizing selection of Vietnamese dishes in an elegant setting of green and purple hues. Xu is our favorite when it comes to fusion Vietnamese fare, a renowned restaurant cum bar tops with a chic and classy atmosphere.
Halong Bay From Hanoi, a scenic 3-hour drive through the Red River Delta leads you to Hanoi. In the famed Halong Bay, the sublime beauty of magnificent limestone formations rising dramatically from the waters is best experienced on a boat cruise. Be transported back to the nostalgic charm of yesteryear aboard the Emeraude, a luxurious replica of a grand colonial steamer. Other charming vessels in Halong Bay include Jasmine and Violet Junks, Paradise Cruise and utterly charming Indochina Junks. Make a stop at a local village to enjoy the captivating performance of traditional water puppetry, a distinctive art form of the Red River Delta.
Sapa Vietnam’s northern mountain ranges are breathtakingly beautiful with fresh air and cool temperatures. To visit these remote mountains, take advantage of the elegantly restored Victoria Train with its plush seating and wood-paneled Pullman carriages. Home to a diverse group of hill tribes such as Tay, Red Dao, Black and Flower H’mong, Sapa boasts of ample hill tribe trekking and home stay opportunities. Victoria Sapa Resort combines mountain traveling with stylish comfort while Topas Eco Lodge provides a peaceful retreat amid the lush valleys. Beyond Sapa, Mount Fansipan (Indochina’s highest peak) is great for trekking and exploration.
Danang Although not a major stop on the tourist trail, Danang’s location between Hoi An and Hue makes a nice stop along the way. The city is one of the most dynamic of Vietnam’s modern cities with rapid industrial and economic growth. Visitors to Danang can enjoy the understated, yet fascinating Cham art and culture at Cham Museum. On the outskirts of town is China Beach, steeped in legend yet wonderfully deserted.
Buon Ma Thuot Buon Ma Thuot is the largest city in Vietnam’s Central Highlands region, an unexplored area with great adventure and trekking potential. The abundance of untouched forests, stunning landscapes, national parks and hill tribe villages are still off the tourist trails.
Dalat With its perennial cool weather, pine-clad valleys and weathered but elegant French hilltop villas, Dalat is Vietnam’s premier hill station. Opportunities abound for meetings and incentives in boutique colonial hotels such as the Dalat Palace Hotel, as well as mountain adventures of absailing, canyoning and even world-class golfing. For an opulent alpine retreat, Ana Mandara Villas Dalat is a good fit.
Mui Ne Just a four-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City, Mui Ne is renowned for its long stretches of sandy beaches and perennial sea breezes that greatly complement wind-surfing and kite-surfing. It is also famous for the wind-sculpted red and white sand dunes that make great postcard shots and adventurous sports. Golfers can tee off at the Nick Faldo-designed Ocean Dunes Golf Course. Home to many different resorts, the luxurious Victoria Phan Thiet, the boutique Cham Villas and the newly refurnished Blue Ocean are our top selects for this charming beach town.
Phan Thiet Located in Binh Thuan province, Phan Thiet is a small coastal town with a thriving fishing industry. Check out the production of nuoc mam (fish sauce seasoning commonly used in Vietnamese cuisine). Golf lovers will be delighted with a choice of two international class golf courses overlooking the sea – Ocean Dunes and the recently established Sealinks.
Nha Trang In the heart of Khanh Hoa province, Nha Trang is the undisputed beach capital of Vietnam. Besides long stretches of sand lapped by crystal clear waters, it is dotted with many islands each with its own distinct character. The turquoise waters play host to teeming marine life, and snorkeling and scuba diving are perennial favorites. This beach town also features a vibrant night life. The lovely Evason Ana Mandara and Sheraton top the resorts in Nha Trang and for travelers seeking a luxurious resort experience, the remote six-star Six Senses Hideaway Ninh Van Bay does not disappoint.
Quy Nhon Quy Nhon is Vietnam’s other ‘secret’ destination. Occupying the stretch of coastline between Danang and Nha Trang, this port city is close to spectacular secluded bays and unpopulated private islands. The Life Wellness Resort Quy Nhon makes an ideal location for a peaceful retreat.
Mekong Delta One of the world’s most fertile areas, the Mekong Delta is home to countless rice fields and tributaries across thousands of square miles of flat land. An overnight cruise in the Mekong Delta is definitely worthwhile, for the experience of awakening in the early morning to find floating markets and villages floating around you is incredible. The small sizes of the Song Xanh Sampans and Cai Be Princess are perfect for glimpses into the local ways of life while relaxing in the comfort of a floating boutique hotel. The ornate vessels of Pandaw and Bassac are great for Mekong Delta cruises between Ho Chi Minh City and Phnom Penh.
Phu Quoc Off Vietnam’s southern coast in the Gulf of Thailand, the island of Phu Quoc is one of Asia’s up and rising beach destination. The island’s clear waters, isolated beaches, forested interior and charming local character make for an ideal beach escape. Do not forget to sample Phu Quoc’s famous traditional products - fish sauce and black pepper. For a relaxing tropical beach retreat, try La Veranda Resort & Spa or ChenSea Resort & Spa.
Vietnam - FAQs AIRLINES Domestic: Three domestic airlines are currently operating in Vietnam: Vietnam Airlines, Jetstar-Pacific Airlines and Indochina Airlines. Both Jetstar-Pacific and Indochina Airlines are low-cost carriers (LCC). Jetstar is a joint venture company between Qantas Australia and Pacific Air. Indochina Airiness is Vietnam’s newest airline and is privately owned. All airlines are using a mixture of Boeing and Airbus planes and Vietnamese as well as foreign pilots. AIRPORT TAX There is a departure tax on all international flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City but this tax is already included in the price of your all airplane tickets. ARRIVAL IN VIETNAM BY AIR: Consult your local travel agent for routings, fares and availability on flights to Vietnam. Discount websites and flight search engines may offer some good deals. Major airlines flying to Ho Chi Minh City or
Hanoi include: Vietnam Airlines, Air France, United Airlines, Lufthansa, Thai Airways, Qatar Airways, Bangkok Airways and many more. Major airlines flying to Danang International Airport include PB Air from Bangkok and Silk Air from Singapore. BY LAND: Vietnam shares a border with China in the north (three border crossings), Laos in the west (three border crossings) and Cambodia in the south-west (three border crossings). From China: Trains from Beijing to Hanoi pass by Nanning and Pinxiang in China and enter Vietnam at Dong Dang (north of Lang Son). There is also a road crossing know as Huu Nghi in Lang Son province. Trains coming from Kunming cross the border at Lao Cai, in northwest Vietnam. From Guangzhou, you will cross the border at Mong Cai, a few hours drive from Halong and its spectacular Bay. From Laos: If you travel from Laos by road via Savannakhet and Sepon, you will get to Vietnam by the Lao Bao (Vietnam) border crossing. This crossing links Laos to central Vietnam (Danang and Dong Ha). If you travel from Vientiane, you will cross Lak Sao before entering Vietnam by Cau Treo border crossing, in Ha Tinh Province (Vietnam). The Nam Can border crossing connects Nghe An Province (Vietnam) and Xieng Khuang Province (Laos).
From Cambodia: If you travel from Phnom Penh by speedboat, you will enter Vietnam at Chau Doc, in the Mekong Delta area. If you arrive from Cambodia by road into Ho Chi Minh City, you will enter Vietnam at Moc Bai, which connects Vietnam’s Tay Ninh Province with Cambodia’s Svay Rieng Province. Border crossing at Prek Chak/Xaxia (close to Kep in Cambodia and Ha Tien in Vietnam) are now possible. NOTE: You cannot obtain a visa on arrival at land border-crossing points. If you enter Vietnam by land, you must obtain the visa before arrival. Refer to our VISA section below for more information. ARRIVAL FORMALITIES/ VISA ON ARRIVAL In case you are obtaining your pre-arranged visa on arrival please proceed to the Visa counter and read the visa section.
ATMs ATMs for withdrawing Vietnamese Dong are available in major airports, hotels, towns and capitals of provinces throughout Vietnam. Most ATMs have an English language version. Ask your tour guide for help when you need to locate an ATM.
CLOTHING Comfortable lightweight clothing in natural fabrics such as cotton is most suitable for traveling in Vietnam. The dress code is fairly casual as in most parts of the tropics but it is advisable to cover arms and legs in the evenings against biting insects. A lightweight raincoat and umbrella are a good idea in the rainy season and an umbrella can also offer useful shade from the sun. Evenings in the north and the center can be quite chilly so bring a sweater and a good jacket especially from November to February. Visitors should not wear shorts, short skirts or other revealing clothing when visiting pagodas and monasteries. Shoes must be removed before entering some religious building or a private home. It is therefore useful to wear shoes without too many laces and which can easily be taken off.
CREDIT CARDS Most credit cards are accepted in Vietnam. Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted. JCB and American Express are also accepted in some outlets. Not all hotels, commercial centers, shops and restaurants accept credit cards. Check with the cashier before making any purchases. Bear in mind that in some places a surcharge applies for credit card purchases: Visa and MasterCard charge approximately 2.2% surcharge,
JCB: 2.75% surcharge, American Express: 4% surcharge. NOTE: Surcharges can change without prior notice. Check the percentage charged before you pay.
ELECTRICITY Vietnam mainly uses 220V but in some areas, 110V is also used. A mixture of flat and round 2-pin outlets are used throughout the country. It is recommended to bring a universal plug adaptor.
ENTERTAINMENT There are plenty of entertainment options in Vietnam and restaurants, bars and nightclubs open until late at night/early in the morning. A wide variety of restaurants are on offer, with everything from Vietnamese, Asian, Italian, French cuisine, etc. to fast food.
FOOD Vietnamese cuisine comes as a pleasant surprise to many visitors and is definitely a part of the Vietnam experience not to be missed. One of the characteristics of Vietnamese food is that it is always bought fresh from the market the same morning. Food is usually prepared with a minimum of oil and served with the ubiquitous fish sauce called nuoc mam. Typical Vietnamese dishes
you can expect to try include pho, a type of rice noodle soup eaten for breakfast, cha gio, deep-fried spring rolls and goi ngo sen, a delicious salad made with lotus stems, shrimps and peanuts. Due to the strong Buddhist influence in Vietnam, vegetarian food is widely available.
HEALTH No vaccinations are mandatory except for yellow fever if you are coming from an area where the disease is present. However visitors should be inoculated against typhoid, cholera, hepatitis A & B, tetanus and polio. Malaria is present in most of the region and it is advisable to take precautions, especially if traveling off the beaten track. Medical facilities are limited and it is essential to take out a good medical insurance policy before traveling in case evacuation is needed. Consult your doctor for up-to-date information and prescriptions for vaccinations, anti-malarial tablets and any reasonably foreseeable illnesses whilst traveling in Vietnam. Some vaccination courses may need time to be completed. If you plan to take anti-malarial tablets, you usually need to start one week before arrival. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements (including a spare pair of glasses).
HOURS OF BUSINESS Offices are usually open from Monday to Friday from 07:30 or 08:00 until 17:00 or 18:00 and often close for lunch between 11:30 and 13:00. Some offices also open on Saturday morning. Shops open early and close any time between 18:00 and 22:00. Most shops are open 7 days a week.
INTERNET Major hotels have Business Centers with PCs connected to the Internet. Some of them have wireless broadband access in rooms or public areas. Cybercafés are available everywhere and are easily found in major towns and cities. Prices are reasonable, usually below US$1 per hour. Most Internet cafés are equipped with webcams, headsets and microphones. Vietnam has an exceptional amount of cafés and restaurants offering free WIFI connections, if having a meal or a drink internet fees are waived.
LANGUAGE The national language of Vietnam is Vietnamese. In big cities and in places with many tourists, people will speak basic English. The younger generation will be more adept at speaking English, while the older generation still speaks some French. Because Vietnamese
has six different tones, it is a difficult language for most foreigners to speak despite the fact that the Roman alphabet is used in modern Vietnamese. The same word can have six different meanings depending on the tone used to pronounce it. Russian and Chinese are also spoken by some people.
MONEY The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). US Dollars and Euros are accepted in many hotels, restaurants and shops. Banks are open Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 05:00 and some on Saturday morning. In the major cities, some exchange offices open long hours near places frequented by tourists and most hotels will change US Dollars and Euros at very reasonable rates. For everyday expenses, we recommend carrying a mix of US Dollars and VND in cash. For larger items or when the exchange rate works in your favor, use US Dollars. For cyclos, local food stalls and small purchases, it’s best to use VND. In either case, make sure you always have a stock of small notes so that you don’t have to worry about change.
PHOTOGRAPHY Normal print films are available in Vietnam as well as
professional quality films (like slide films). Digital photos can easily be downloaded and loaded onto a CDRom in case you run out of memory.
POSTAL MAIL
April 30 Liberation of Saigon Day May 1 International Labor Day
Postcards are sold at all main tourist sites and stamps are available from post offices and some hotel reception desks. A postcard to Europe costs VND 9,000 (0.5 USD) to send and can take up to two weeks to reach the country of destination.
September 2 National Day
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 2011 - 2012
Buddhism is the dominant religion in Vietnam and is usually combined with elements of Confucianism and Taoism. About 10% of the country’s population is Catholic and there are also communities of Protestants and Muslims. Vietnam is also home to a unique religion called Cao Dai, a religious cocktail of all the world’s major faiths.
January 1 New Year’s Day February 2 -5 Tet or Vietnamese New Year. The actual dates vary from year to year according to the lunar calendar. Officially a three-day holiday but many businesses close down for a full week. This is the busiest time of the year for travelling in Vietnam and hotels, flights and trains are often full. April 12 Hung King’s Birthday
RELIGION
SAFETY Vietnam is a safe country to visit. As a global rule, never leave your belongings unattended and always maintain eye contact or a firm grip on cameras and shoulder bags. Avoid cyclos late at night and choose reliable metered taxi companies as they are really cheap and air-conditioned.
SHOPPING
TIPPING
Souvenirs to look out for in Vietnam include lacquerware, silk, conical hats, woodcarvings, hill tribe fabrics and handicrafts, embroidery, marble, ceramics, silver jewelry, antique watches and paintings. Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi have the best choices when it comes to shopping but Hoi An is also a very good place to hunt for bargains.
Tipping for good service is not expected but is always appreciated in a country where the average annual income is quite low compared to Europe for example. It is customary to tip tour guides and drivers at the end of a tour. Hotel and station porters should also be tipped. Do not let the guide talk you into tipping more than you plan to. It is totally up to you who you tip, when and how much
TELEPHONE If you have worldwide coverage, you can bring your own mobile phone and use it to make domestic or international calls. Check with your mobile phone provider for the costs before using it abroad - it may be expensive. Most hotels now have IDD phones in rooms and it is possible to send faxes from hotels and post offices although these services are expensive. It may not always be possible to make international calls in remote areas.
TIME Vietnam is GMT 7 and does not operate daylight-saving system.
TRANSPORTATION Vietnamese law does not allow foreigners to rent and drive a car. It is highly advisable to rent a car with a driver who knows the roads and can speak Vietnamese in case of any problems. Traffic and roads conditions may be very different to what you are used to. Generally drivers do not speak English although you might get lucky.
TRAVELERS CHECKS Banks such as CitiBank, ANZ Bank. HSBC and Vietcombank can change your travelers checks for VND or US Dollars but a commission applies (1% to 2%). Very few shops, hotels or restaurants accept travelers checks.
VISAS Most visitors to Vietnam require a visa to enter the country and all travelers must have a passport valid for 6 months after their planned exit from Vietnam. Exceptions: Nationals from Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Russia traveling to Vietnam and staying for 15 days or less do not need to apply for entry visas, provided that their passport is valid for at least three months and they can show their return ticket. Those who wish to stay longer than 15 days will need to apply for a visa. Tourists holding ASEAN passports do not need a visa for a visit up to 30 days. Philippines passport holders do not need a visa for a visit up to 21 days. Japanese and South Korean passport holders do not need a visa for a visit up to 15 days. A tourist visa is normally a single entry visa, which means that if you exit Vietnam (for example for a side trip to Cambodia), you will require a new visa to reenter (or apply for a Multiple Entry Visa). The validity of a Tourist Visa is 30 days and is normally a single entry visa is given unless a multiple entry is requested. There are 2 ways to obtain a visa: Case 1: Visa application in your country before depar-
ture In case there is a Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate in your home town: Apply directly at the Vietnamese embassy or consulate. The length of the process can vary. In order to accelerate the process, bring the “Approval letter” done by us (see below) your passport 2 recent passport-sized photos and fill out the paperwork required. Your visa can then be delivered much faster. A visa stamping fee is charged locally. Fees vary from one country to another. Note: A visa requested as a multi-entry at embassies abroad is often issued as a single entry; it is recommended to double-check your visa stamp in passport when collecting your passport. Multiple entry visas can also be arranged on arrival (Case 2). Case 2: Pre-arranged “Visa on arrival” at international entry points
the “Visa pick-up upon arrival approval letter” (see below) to the airline check-in counter. Without this letter airlines may refuse you boarding. On arrival in Vietnam, proceed to the Visa on Arrival counter at the airports. You will be asked to fill one more form, give 2 photos and pay USD 25/person (Single entry) and USD 50/person (Multiple entry) in cash before the visa is stamped into your passport and before going through passport control. Such a procedure is possible at the international airports in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon and Danang) and at the land border of Moc Bai (coming from Cambodia near Ho Cho Minh City – here you need the ORIGINAL paper and a copy will not be accepted – please allow for extra time to have original sent to you by DHL). Before departure, prepare some bank notes in US Dollars to pay the visa stamping fee on arrival.
In case there is NO Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your home town:
For both cases mentioned above Exotissimo can facilitate the visa application procedure and obtain the necessary visa pre-approval from the Vietnamese Immigration Department in advance. We need the following details from all applicants:
Send us all passport details as required below and we will process a pre-approval here from Vietnam. Bring
- Full name as it appears in your passport - Date of birth DD/MM/YY
- Gender - Passport number - Issue date and expiry date of your passport - Place of issue (e.g. Paris, France) - Case 1: Location where you collect the visa, e.g. Vietnam embassy in Paris. - Case 2: Arrival date and flight number (e.g. 24th of March 2009 by Vietnam Airlines flight VN532) and Port of entry (e.g. Ho Chi Minh City, Tan Son Nhat airport) We will send you in time the official document issued by the Vietnamese Immigration department. In Case 1 it is an “Approval letter”, in Case 2 it is a “Visa pick-up upon arrival approval letter”. The approval process usually takes 5-7 working days. A processing fee is charged for this service. In urgent cases (less than 5 days) an express surcharge will be charged. In urgent cases (less than 5 days) an express surcharge of USD 20 will be charged. A supplement for DHL fees will be charged in case you need the original document (land crossing Moc Bai from Cambodia to Vietnam). NOTE: All the above information may change without prior notice. It remains the traveler’s responsibility to verify whether or not you are subject to a tourist visa for Vietnam.
WEATHER Hanoi and the north of Vietnam have distinct winter and summer seasons. The mainly dry winter lasts from November to April with average temperatures of 18-20°C. Summer lasts from May to October and is hot and humid with temperatures around 30°C. Hue and Danang, in the center of the country, see very hot, dry weather from February to August with temperatures reaching the mid-30’s°C, but can experience some heavy rainfall between September and January. Ho Chi Minh City and the south have a hot, dry season from December till April with average temperatures hovering around 28°C and a warm rainy season from May to November. In the rainy season, most rain comes in short, heavy bursts. There is good weather somewhere in Vietnam all year round! Vietnam stretches over 2000 km from North to South. The climate differs all year round from one region to another. The North can be chilly during winter months (December to March). North and Central Vietnam can encounter tropical storms and typhoons from October to January. Overall, the north of Vietnam experiences more marked seasons than the rest of the country with two distinct seasons: wet and dry. The South, including Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, benefits from sunshine and warm weather all year round. However, the rainy season lasts from May
to November (with showers once or twice daily in general) and a dry season from December to April. The Central Highlands can be chilly. Nha Trang has warm – sometimes hot - weather all year round, with a rainy season from the end of September until December. Unless you intend to visit friends, relatives or your family, we do not recommend visiting Vietnam during the Lunar New Year or Tet holiday (Vietnamese New Year falls between late January and February). Tet is the most important period of the year for many Vietnameses who take time off to visit their families in the countryside. All hotels, buses, trains and flights are full, and there is almost no activity in the markets and shops. Some hotels and restaurants are under-staffed and in some cases the quality of the service may suffer. This period of reduced activity may last from a week before and a week after the Tet period. It is also impossible to get a “visa authorization letter” processed during this period.
WATER It is not advisable to drink tap water but bottled mineral water is safe and available everywhere. All hotels provide a complimentary bottle of local mineral water per person in the room. Ice cubes in drinks is generally okay in good standard hotels and restaurants but it is best to avoid it on street stalls or in country areas.
www.exotissimo.com
EXOTISSIMO TRAVEL VIETNAM Ho Chi Minh City - Main Office 80-82 Phan Xich Long Street Phu Nhuan District, Ho Chi Minh City, VIETNAM Tel: +84 (0) 8 3995 9898 Fax: +84 (0) 8 3995 9184/5 Email: go [dot] vietnam [at] exotissimo [dot] com
Hanoi - Branch Office 26 Tran Nhat Duat Street Hanoi, VIETNAM Tel: +84 (0) 4 3828 2150 Fax: +84 (0) 4 3828 2146 Email: go [dot] vietnam [at] exotissimo [dot] com