The Things to Watch Out for While Visiting Vietnam

For many years, the bulk of tourists headed to Southeast Asia were broadly split between Japan (for its old and new culture) and Thailand (for its sheer hedonism). However, as the internet allowed actual visitors to share their experiences directly with bigger audiences, people began to realize just how much richness they were missing in the region. The fine line between tourist and traveler started to blur. Vietnam has been among the happiest recipients of this new trend – with tourism of all types skyrocketing recently. You may already have seen blog posts about hiking trails, Instagram shots of ancient temples or (increasingly) whole videos recounting the country’s incredible range of environments. And so, for those looking to go beyond the obvious, this guide should help you prep for one of the continent’s greatest unfolding adventures:

What To Take

Wherever you go, packing is always the first step to the holiday you want. Exotic destinations are guaranteed to deliver all manner of incredible experiences, but these will include the occasional challenge to a non-native.
So, most of your travel wardrobe should be suitable for a tropical climate, but that’s not all. Make sure you also have lightweight options for wet weather and colder evenings. Additionally, if your plan is to visit any religious sites (even if ancient), you should make sure you have a garment which covers your shoulders and knees – your hosts will appreciate you showing their sacred places appropriate respect. It’s also very wise to take both insect repellent and balm to treat any bites you might suffer.

When To Go

Although it’s known as a subtropical country, Vietnam is also so large that it contains three distinct (if overlapping) micro-climates. Now, this is generally a great asset, since it means there’s always a region in season – but if you have a particular place you want to visit, try to make sure you’re there when it’s at its best. Another consideration is whether you want to witness one of Vietnam’s many historic festivals. The most celebrated is Tet Nguyen Dan (New Year), which is a whole week of events (note that this is according to the lunar calendar, and thus late January). In August, meanwhile, Trang Nguyen (the Feast of the Wandering Souls) is a moving national reflection on those no longer with us. In September or October, Trung Thu (Children’s Day) looks forward instead, with little ones given lanterns, sticky rice cakes and candied fruits.

Where To Go

As mentioned above, it’s important to remember that Vietnam’s size means it also encompasses a surprising amount of variation. Another common mistake is to assume the sights are clustered together. In fact, the (train) journey between Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, for example, takes a day and a half of solid travel. So – unless you’re lucky enough to be having a long stay, part of your planning should be focusing on particular regions, and what you want to see there. Hanoi is Vietnam’s capital, and it’s a rapidly modernizing metropolis. It’s a great place to try every flavour of street food, before hitting the vibrant bar scene. Also in the North is the country’s number one tourist site – the otherworldly landscape of Ha Long Bay, where limestone pillars tower out of the water.

Central Vietnam is arguably the best region to go deep into the country’s history. Hue was the country’s imperial capital, and retains a magnificent collection of palaces, temples – and restaurants. Meanwhile, the fabled DMZ of the 20th Century’s ruinous war is also to be found here. Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon) is the great city of the South, and offers all the metropolitan buzz you’d expect – plus haunting attractions such as the War Remnants Museum. In the area around, you can find long beaches, jungle temples of great antiquity, and National Parks where visitors can see the country’s wildlife in its natural habitat.

How To Act

As already noted, travellers should have at least one set of more conservative clothes for certain public situations. Likewise, be aware you’ll be expected to remove your shoes when entering someone’s house. It’s not considered appropriate to touch another person’s head (since this is considered the most sacred body part), and try not to point the soles of your feet toward any sacred statuary (the feet are considered the least sacred).

Generally, use formal language if you’re speaking to strangers, and remove your hat when doing so. Know that elders are particularly respected in Vietnamese culture (they should eat first, for example). Lastly, try not to leave food on your plate (thankfully, the quality of Vietnamese cuisine makes this one quite easy).