Vietnam tours, Vietnam Luxury tours, Holiday in Vietnam

CLIMATE

• What is the climate like in Viet Nam?
  Answer: Shaped like letter S, Viet Nam stretches out from north to south bordered by 3,000 km croastline holding some of the finest beaches in the world. Running along the country, range of tropical rain forested mountains form a spine that connects flat, fertile deltas of two great rivers, the Red River in the north and the Mekong in the south.  Geographically, the climate in Viet Nam varies greatly from north to south with three distinct climatic zones.
  In the north, rainy season is from August to November. Typhoons are frequent, but not too much of a problem. It is quite chilly in the north in  winter time (Dec. - Feb.).
  The climate in Mekong delta is sub-equatorial with two main seasons. Wet season lasts from May to October with short downpours occurring almost every day. Dry season lasts from November to April ending with the last three hot and humid months.
  Annual rainfall for the south is approximately 80 inches (2,000 millimeters) while temperatures remain relatively constant - on average, between 77 and 95oF (25-35oC). Between July and November, Viet Nam is hit by random, violent typhoons that develop off the coast in the East Sea. They typically hit the central and north coasts. Their frequency seemed to increase over the past few years.
• What is the best time to visit Central of Viet Nam?
  Answer: December to March is the best time to visit the Central Highlands when it is usually dry and cool. In this time, the weather is often beautiful with fine, warm days and pleasant evenings. Rainy season effects central coast from December to February. It is very hot and dry from June to October.
• What is the best time to visit the South of Viet Nam?
  Answer: December to April is the best time to visit the south of Viet Nam. Downpours occur almost every day during rainy season (May to November) but they tend to last in just a short time so you can still enjoy a visit during these months. The Mekong Delta can experience severe flooding during this period making travel very difficult
• What is the best time to visit the North of Viet Nam?
  Answer: September to December is the best time to visit the North of Viet Nam when it isn't so humid. The weather turns to in January, and it continues until March. The humidity can prove oppressive from May to the start of September and there's a danger of flooding.
• There are many storms and floods in Philippines. How is the weather in Viet Nam during rainy season? Is it dangerous?
  Answer: Viet Nam has a single rainy season during the south monsoon (May-Sep). Some provinces in Central of Viet Nam such as Nghe An, Thanh Hoa, Ha Tinh, Hue..., usually suffer some storms during this period. Therefore, think twice when deciding to travel in these places in this time. It is hot without rain during the day but usually with a late afternoon downpour with some dramatic thunders and lightnings in other places in the country. Flooded, unpaved, muddy, or sometimes impassable roads can be the main problem if you plan to travel by land (bus, bike, car).   

MONEY

• Can I use credit cards or cheques to get cash or to pay for something in Viet Nam?
  Answer: ATMs have proliferated throughout major cities in Viet Nam. Most of them are connected to the Visa and MasterCard networks, and can be used to get cash advances through your credit card. Visa and MasterCard are also accepted in most hotels, restaurants and shops. Travellers' cheques are more difficult to use since passport is requested to show when cashing. And remember about second signature rule when using Travellers' cheques. You can change cash and travellers’ cheques at exchange desks in big hotels, shops licensed to sell gold and at authorized foreign exchange banks in main cities.
• How much money will I need each day for food and other expenses?
  Answer: Inflation is slightly high in Viet Nam these days, so price for some stuff is rather expensive while many things cost so cheap for tourists. Approximately 30 USD is enough per person for day-to-day living, which can buy you lunch and dinner at good local restaurants (your breakfast is always included), as well as refreshments during the day. Transport such as taxis and cyclos is cheap, and should cost you no more than 10 USD a day on average, or even much less. If you are traveling independently, you will need to factor in any entrance fees which may be between 1-5 USD. High end and Western restaurants will cost more. Price of wine or alcohol varies. Beer is generally cheap; especially in local restaurants however wine is expensive, even by Western standards.
• Do I need to tip in Viet Nam?
  Answer: Tipping inspires great service. It is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry in Viet Nam. In local markets and basic restaurants in general, we suggest rounding your bill up to the nearest 1-2 USD. In more up-markets or restaurants 5% to 10% is appropriate. If you are happy with the services provided by your guides or drivers, we suggest a tip of 3-5 USD/person per day for guides and 2 USD/person per day for drivers. Of course you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality.
• Do they have fixed price/do I have to bargain in Viet Nam?
  Answer: Bargaining for souvenirs has long been the norm in Vietnam, however 'fixed price' boutiques are becoming more common. Even then, you may be able to garner a discount, especially if you buy more than one item. As in all Asian countries, ‘saving face’ is important, so bargaining should be good-natured. In some cases you will be able to get a 50% discount or more, at other times this may only be 10%. And it's never a good idea to ask whether someone else got it for less – chances are they will have! In most cases you will not need to bargain for basic items such as bottled water, toiletries and food.

FOOD AND DRINKS

• What are the most special Vietnamese dishes?
  Answer: In the past few years, Vietnamese food has become more and more popular around the world. Food lovers may have tried the two best- known Vietnamese dishes – spring rolls and bread rolls. Rice, noodles, fresh vegetable and herbs all play big roles in Vietnamese food, making it one of the healthiest cuisines in the world.
  
  
• What are the different tastes of Vietnamese cuisine?
  Answer: Like everything else, Vietnamese food also differs geographically from location to location. North Vietnamese usually use soy sauce, fish sauce and prawn sauce in their food. They also have many stir fried dishes.
  
  Because of harsh weather and less developed agriculture than the South, Northern Vietnamese tend to use fewer meat, fish and vegetables; and black pepper (instead of chili) to create spice. The taste is strict and less sweet, but more salty than in other regions.
  
  Central Viet Nam is distinct in its extreme spiced and colored food. Hue’s cuisine, affected by royal cuisine once created for kings and queens, emphasize on quality and quantity – A meal constitutes of many complex dishes served only at small proportions.
  
  Southern Vietnamese dishes were clearly affected by Cambodian, Thai and Chinese cuisines (due to trade and immigrants). Southerners prefer sweet tastes (created by adding sugar or coconut milk) and spicy tastes (created by chili peppers).
  
  A variety of dried fish and sauces originate from the South. Seafood is preferable here in the south. People prefer using simple cooking methods with larger proportions but fewer servings.
• How is about the food safety? Is all food clean?
  Answer: Foods in Viet Nam are not always safe as they look, especially in street small shops and vendors’ load. Since the price of materials rose up in recent years, many shops have to reduce cost to maintain their profit. This decreases safety in street foods. In general, if you are afraid of having problem with your belly, you should go to big restaurants, or trusted addresses for your meal.
• Is Viet Nam a safe country?
  Answer: Viet Nam is a safe destination. Globaly, common sense precautions are advised. Petty street crimes in large cities has risen recently. Keeping a photocopy of your passport, airline tickets, credit card numbers, and detailed record of your traveler’s cheques is strongly advised. You should leave your valuables in your hotel safety or deposit boxes. In large cities, such as Ho Chi Minh City and Ha Noi, we recommend you wear as little jewelry as possible, and keep your spending money in a body-closed secure place when out on the streets. 

HEALTH AND SAFETY

• What’s the situation about the tropical diseases problem in Viet Nam?
  Answer:

  Located in tropical and subtropical area, Viet Nam is facing many diseases such as Filarial lymphangitis, Trachoma and Helminth parasitic. The diseases usually occur in poor economy,and hygiene areas.

  
  

  The parasitic disease, transmitted through food, is one of very common diseases. This is a health problem that Vietnamese government is now still finding difficulty in fighting with, due to people’s eating habit, methods of livestock and poultry process, ecological factors, environmental and personal hygiene.

  
  
• Should I take medical precautions against tropical diseases?
  Answer:

  Taking medical precautions against tropical diseases before traveling to Viet Nam is always a good decision. It is due to complicated appearing and changing situation of these diseases as well as you may be unfamiliar with climate in Viet Nam. However, it is not a big problem if you do not take precautions beforehand. You just try to remember following useful advices that can help to keep you healthy during your trip:

  •    Stay hydrated - always bring along filtered water to keep you hydrated while traveling

  •    Keep your hands clean. Wash your hands frequently with soap. Handy hand sanitizer helps to get rid of any germs you may pick up, especially before your meal

  •    Don’t eat street vendors’ dishes

  
  
• Can I rely on Vietnamese medicines/Are western medicines stored up?
  Answer: Some Vietnamese medicines are produced based on patent purchased from foreign pharmaceutical companies. Their quality is the same but with cheaper price compareing to western medicines. Other some Vietnamese originally produced drugs also provide effective treatment for diseases. 
• Is drinking water hygienic at all places?
  Answer: Frankly, it is not. Nowadays, bottled water is popular in Viet Nam due to its convenience. Therefore, in recent years, the number of bottled water brands increased rapidly in market. It does not mean all brands can satisfy Health Ministry’s quality inspection criteria. Some producers expect their profit at the highest level, therefore providing consumers poor quality bottled water that can bring bad influence on their health. 
  
• Is Viet Nam a good place to take children to?
  Answer: Viet Nam is very child-friendly country. The Vietnamese are family oriented and regularly travel with their own children during holidays. If you are traveling with children aged 5-17, our Family Journeys, featuring a combination of fun and educational activities, might best suit your needs. Some hotels cater well to families with triple share options, or adjoining rooms.
• What are the risks of being robbed?
  Answer:

  Viet Nam is not an exception. It has thieves like anywhere else in the world. Robberies do happen, though they tend to snatch or grab rather than muggings. Golden rules:

  • don't take any valuable thing out with you, which you can't afford when lost

  • keep copies of all important documentation such as your passport, credit cards and travelers cheques

  • keep a list of important phone numbers somewhere, too

  • most guesthouses and hotels offer safety deposit boxes. Use them

  • it’s wise to use a money belt

  • avoid leaving your mobile phone or camera while sitting at a restaurant table or bar. Don’t place your purse or bag on the floor beneath your seat where someone may reach under and slide it out

  • finally, watch your wallet when walking around busy pedestrian areas

  
  

MEANS OF TRANSPORTATION

• What is the flight time to Viet Nam?
  Answer: + From Australia: Flight times range from 9 Hours (Sydney, Melbourne, Perth) to 12 hours (Adelaide, Brisbane)
  + From New Zealand: 13 hours from Auckland
  + From USA: Flight times range from 16 hours (Los Angeles) to 19 hours (New York)
  + From UK: 14 hours from London
  + From France: 11 hours
  + From Canada: 16 to 20 hours
  + From Germany: 14 to 17 hours
  + From Indonesia: 4 to 6 hours
  + From Singapore: 2 hours
  + From Hong Kong: 2 to 3 hours
• What is the time difference with Viet Nam?
  Answer: Time zone of Viet Nam: GMT + 7 (the same zone as with Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia)
• What means of transportation do you use and how is their quality?
  Answer:

  It is now easier to travel in Viet Nam than before. Means of transportation are usually very comfortable.

  + By air: You can travel by air to some faraway destinations with a few scheduled flights. Sometimes their late-changed aircraft type can impact travelers’ plans.

  + By train:  Railway is still slow with a limited rail network. Lines run between Ha Noi – Sai Gon, Ha Noi - Lao Cai, Ha Noi – Lang Son. Train stations for some destinations can be literally in the middle of nowhere. Rolling-stock is generally serviceable, but old by western standards. 

  + By local bus: One of the advantages of this mean is its cheap price. Just with VND 3,000 (1-way ticket) you can travel to some destinations in Ha Noi, and a little higher in other places. Late schedule or traffic jam is considered its disadvantage especially in big cities (Ha Noi, Ho Chi Minh).

  + By taxi: Going sightseeing by taxi is convenient for travelers. Remember to choose reliable taxi name by asking your hotel’s receptionists or tour guides. Don’t forget to remind taxi driver turn on switch meters in the beginning of your travel.

  In most of the cities you can find cyclo or “xe om” for transferring around. Negotiation for prices before you jump on is necessary in Vietnamese Dong.

  Bicycle or motorbike rentals can be found in major cities of interest, like Ha Noi, Ho Chi Minh, Hue, or Hoi An, but make sure that you understand traffic rules before riding.

  On Foot: You may need to learn how to cross city streets, especially in Ho Chi Minh and Ha Noi. Traffic in those cities is like "water on wheels". It is constantly moving on and flowing around uninterrupted ly. Daytime traffic seems to be never stop. People are always on the move.

  
  

• How is the quality of trains and do you have high speed trains like in China?
  Answer: Travel by train can be a great way to experience Viet Nam. The most common routes are the overnight journeys between Hue - Ha Noi, Ha Noi - Sa Pa. 4-berth soft sleeper compartments, which are clean and comfortable are recommended. Most luggage stows easily under the bottom of berth or in racks above the top of the berth. Earplugs are recommended as noisy train can noisy train can annoy your sleep at night. Viet Nam hasn't got yet high speed trains at the moment .
  
• What are international and domestic airports in Viet Nam?
  Answer: There are 3 international airports in Viet Nam including Noi Bai International Airport (Ha Noi), Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh) and Da Nang International Airport (Da Nang).There are 12 dometic airports located throughout the country:
  + Buon Ma Thuot Aiport (Dac Lac)
  + Cam Ranh Airport (Khanh Hoa)
  + Cat Bi Airport (Hai Phong)
  + Chu Lai Airport (Quang Nam)
  + Lien Khuong Airport (Da Lat)
  + Phu Bai Airport (Hue)
  + Phu Cat Airport (Binh Dinh)
  + Phu Quoc Aiport (Kien Giang)
  + Pleiku Airport (Gia Lai)
  + Rach Gia Airport (Kien Giang)
  + Tuy Hoa Airport ( Phu Yen)
  + Vinh Airport (Nghe An)

  
  Are the domestic flights safe and reliable?
  Most domestic flights are with Vietnam Airlines. The fleet is modern and comfortable. Most flights use Airbus A320 or Fokker 70 aero planes.However, schedules frequently change and this can result in alterations to your itinerary.
• Is it safe to catch a taxi or cyclo at night?
  Answer: We generally advise not taking cyclos at night unless they are registered with a hotel. Safe and metered taxis provided by reputable companies are reliable. Make sure you obtain a hotel address card before you leave. This card will assist you and taxi driver well in finding the way back to your hotel. 
• Are taxis reliable? Do they have a taximeter or do you have to bargain the price?
  Answer: There are many taxi companies that provide transport services in Viet Nam. Their quality and fee are a bit different. Besides “authentic” taxi which is reliable and worthy, “fake” ones can bring you troubles if you unluckily catch them, like expensive charge, bad attitude of taxi driver or longer distance than needed...Therefore, you ask receptionists in your hotel to call for you a taxi when you want to go out. Don’t forget to ask taxi drivers to switch taximeter on when starting your travel.
  List of taxi companies in Ha Noi is provided in following link for your reference.
  http://congthongtin.com.vn/index.php?Itemid=5&catid=1:bn-&id=5:danh-b-taxi-ha-ni&option=com_content&view=article
  
  
• Do taxi drivers understand English in general especially at the airport?
  Answer: There will be usually staffs to help you communicate with taxi drivers at airport taxi stands, there will be staff to help you communicate with the taxi drivers. In locations with greater numbers of tourists the drivers, the driver generally have a greater understanding of English. However, it is the best to speak slowly when enunciating your destination name, or trying different tones and inflections until the driver recognizes the name.
• What are safe and convenient taxi names for transport from/to Noi Bai and Tan Son Nhat airports?
  Answer:

  In Viet Nam, there are many taxi companies that provide transport services and their charge is little different. At the airport, you can ask Information Center to call a taxi for you, or you can easily get a taxi in airport exterior. Some taxi names you can trust on their quality, service attitude, and price, are listed below:

  In Ha Noi: Noi Bai taxi, Airport taxi, Viet Thanh taxi, Dai Nam taxi...

  + Average fee for transport from Noi Bai Airport to Ha Noi center is about $15-$18

  + Average fee for transport from Ha Noi center to the airport is about $13-$15

  In Ho Chi Minh: Airport taxi, Sai Gon taxi, Mai Linh taxi, Vinasun taxi, Petrolimex taxi...

  + Average fee is $0.6-$0.7/km for the first two kilometers, and $0.4/km for next kilometers.

  + Average fee for transport from Tan Son Nhat Airport to Ho Chi Minh center is about $30 - $40 

TRAFFIC

• How are the roads and their conditions?
  Answer: There is a reasonable road network in the north. Roads are often in a bad state of repair and may be impassable during rainy season. Numerous tragic accidents have occurred due to poor road conditions caused by landslides. Travelers should exercise extreme caution in countryside as road conditions are particularly poor in rural areas.
  
  There is a good highway from Ha Noi to Ho Chi Minh City. Viet Nam currently recognizes two classes of expressways, both with a minimum of two lanes in each direction. Class A has grade separated interchanges, while Class B has at-grade intersections. Be aware that Highway 1, the backbone of the country, is a two-lane road heavily populated with trucks.
• How are Vietnamese people driving?
  Answer:

  Traffic drives on the right, although drivers frequently cross to the left to pass or turn. Motorcycle or bicycle drivers often travel (illegally) against the flow of traffic.

  
  

  Traffic in Viet Nam is chaotic. Streets are crowded in major cities and traffic rules are routinely ignored. Traffic accidents, mostly involving motorcycles and often resulting in traumatic head injury, are an increasingly serious hazard. 

  
  

  Speed limit ranges from 30 to 40 km/h in urban areas and from 40 to 60 km/h in rural areas.

  
  
• Can police help me if I ask them for information?
  Answer: Yes, of course, you can ask any traffic police for help when you get lost or having trouble in streets. However, their English is not good enough. Sometimes you can find them using body language to express their ideas.

SIGHTSEEING

• What are the World Heritages sites in Viet Nam?
  Answer: •    Ha Long Bay - UNESCO World Heritage (2 times with 2 natural values)
  •    Hue old citadel - UNESCO World Heritage (2 times with 2 cultural values)
  •    Hoi An ancient town - UNESCO World Heritage (cultural value)
  •    My Son Sanctuary - UNESCO World Heritage (cultural value)
  •    Phong Nha caves - UNESCO World Heritage (natural value)
• What major sights in and around Hanoi do you recommend ?
  Answer:

  Ha Noi has changed enormously over the last few years, but I still find it a beguiling city. The Old Quarter is as captivating as ever, while some of the revamped colonial buildings are just stunning.

  The Old Quarter in Ha Noi

  Intoxicating tangle of streets makes up Ha Noi's commercial heart. Many are still dedicated to one particular craft; don't miss the jaunty prayer banners of Hang Quat, seductive fragrance of traditional medicines of Lan Ong  and Hang Ma – the street draped in tinsel, votive objects and all manner of paper products.

  Hoan Kiem Lake 

  Very south of the Old Quarter, Ho Hoan Kiem (Lake of the Restored Sword) takes on different personalities at different time of a day. It's perhaps best at daybreak, when tai chi experts limber up in the half-light, or at dusk when old men come to play chess and couples seek privacy in the shadows.

  The French Quarter 

  Continuing southwards, the French Quarter is full of stately colonial buildings on tree-lined avenues. Its centre-piece is beautifully restored Opera House. Nearby, you'll find the elegant Metropole Hotel and Governor of Tonkin's Residence. 

  The Temple of Literature 

  The green lawns and gnarled trees of this Confucian temple are a pleasant respite from the noise, dust and confusion of Ha Noi. 

  
  

  With a few days to spare, a trip to Ha Long Bay is highly recommended. You can either take a guided tour or do it yourself, in which case it's worth considering staying on Cat Ba island rather than more touristy destination of Ha Long City. Other sights around Ha Noi include Perfume Pagoda (a vast, sacred cave accessible only by river), Tam Coc (another river trip, near Ninh Binh) or mountain villages of Sa Pa and Bac Ha near the border with China.

  
  

  
  
• What major sights in and around Ho Chi Minh City do you recommend ?
  Answer:

  Larger and more cosmopolitan than its northern rival, Ho Chi Minh City (or Sai Gon as most locals still calling it) is a fury of sights and sounds. It can be bewildering at first, but it's never dull. Just find a sidewalk café and watch the world go by.

  
  

  Cho Lon – “Big Market”

  This ethnic-Chinese enclave - the name means "big market" - is an exuberant manifestation of Viet Nam's new economic freedoms. The best thing is just to wander, taking in at least one of the Chinese pagodas, such as Quan Am.

  War Remnants Museum

  Formerly known as the War Crimes Museum, this is one of those places you should visit, though it's not for the squeamish. Despite some obvious omissions, such as crimes committed by Communist troops, the museum is gradually adopting a more balanced, reconciliatory tone.

  Reunification Palace 

  The former Presidential Palace is a museum-piece of 60's and 70's kitsch, complete with private casino, penthouse bar and red-plus cinema, while a helicopter molders on the rooftop landing pad. Downstairs in the basement, combat maps still plaster the walls of the command room. 

  Jade Emperor Pagoda 

  Of Sai Gon's many pagodas and temples, Jade Emperor pagoda is the most captivating. It was built by Cantonese community and is dedicated to an exotic array of deities, sheltered by a roof seething with dragons, birds and other nameless beasts.

  
  

  The most popular day-trip from Ho Chi Minh City takes you west to Cao Dai Cathedral and Cu Chi Tunnels. The cathedral is the headquarters of a wonderfully eclectic religion whose saints include Mohammed and Winston Churchill. Worshippers gather four times a day in front of the Supreme Being, represented by a rather unnerving "Divine Eye" on a star-spangled globe. The tunnels of Cu Chi have been enlarged for bulky Western frames, but it's still a sobering experience to crawl through this Viet Cong complex, which reached underneath an American army base. If you've got more time, take a couple of days to explore Mekong Delta.

  
  
• What major sights in and around Hue do you recommend?
  Answer:

  It's an easygoing, peaceful place with lakes and canals, tree-lined boulevards and a certain refinement thanks to its imperial past. Hue also has great cuisine and wonderful restaurants - not to mention all its historical sights. Unfortunately, many sights had been damaged in 1999 floods, though to what degree is not yet certain.

  Imperial City 

  Despite the ravages of war, weather and time, the Imperial City still packs a powerful punch. A great work has been done to restore the palaces, which gleam once more under a coating of rich red lacquer and writhing dragons. 

  Mausoleum of Tu Duc 

  Of Hue's seven royal mausoleums, this is the finest. Rather than dealing with affairs of state, Tu Duc preferred to hide in his lyrical pleasure garden. You can reach this and other Imperial Mausoleums on a boat trip down the Perfume River. 

  Hue Folksongs on the Perfume River 

  There's no better way to spend a balmy Hue evening than drifting gently down the Perfume River to the sound of traditional folk songs.

  
  
• What major sights in and around Da Nang do you recommend ?
  Answer:

  Da Nang is one of Viet Nam's fourth largest cities. It’s now a major harbour once was home to a huge American Air Force base in the Viet Nam War. Many visitors don't take to Da Nang, but I find it a surprisingly relaxed, amiable city with its French past still very much on show. Though it doesn't boast any breathtaking sights of its own, both Hoi An and My Son are within easy reach.

  The Cham Museum in Da Nang, Viet Nam

  Da Nang's most important sight is this unique collection of Cham sculpture dating from the fourth to fifteenth centuries. It won't take more than an hour to explore and is a must if you're going to visit My Son.

  Provincial Museum 

  The best of the museum is its coverage of local ethnic minorities, including a beautifully melodic water harp made by Xedang people. The museum is undergoing very protracted renovation work, so not all rooms are guaranteed to be open.

  Hoi An

  Somehow this little town still retains its charm despite tourist hordes. Its most noteworthy monuments are the two-hundred year old homes of Chinese merchants and their colorful Assembly Hall. Add to that a tasty local cuisine, dozens of good restaurants, a riverside setting and some of the best tailors in the country.

  My Son

  Once a magnificent Cham temple complex, My Son now comprises an atmospheric collection of ruins moldering away in a bowl of lush, wooded hills.

  
  

SHOPPING

• Which souvenirs are best to buy? Do I need to bargain?
  Answer: Traditional conical Vietnamese hats can be found everywhere, as well as such unique gifts as slippers, shoes, and handbags made from traditional materials like silk and bamboo. For those who love handicrafts, it is easy to find beautiful items such as lacquer ware, vases, trays, rosewood boxes, wood-block prints, and oil or watercolor paintings, blinds made from bamboo, reed mats, carpets, ceramics and leather work. For more valued items such as art, antiques and jewelry, you should know that some of these are subject to regulations governing the export of antiques. Ask the dealer about this.
  
  Experienced visitors to Viet Nam recommend always driving a hard bargain when shopping in this country. Hard does not mean aggressive, however. The trick is to bargain with a smile and to be polite – this way, you will probably get what you want at a price with which you and the dealer are both happy. If you have time to spare, it is always wise to compare products and prices. Don’t just buy the first item you see in the first shop.
• What are the opening and closing time of shopping centers?
  Answer: Most restaurants and shops in Viet Nam open from 08h00 till 23h00.
  
• How can I know if a souvenir is authentic or just copied?
  Answer: When buying really expensive items, get an expert to certify whether the item you plan to buy is a genuine antique or an imitation; copied “antiques” are not uncommon in the Vietnamese market. As for jewelery, although Viet Nam is rich in gemstones, this does not mean they are cheap. So, be suspicious of “special” deals. It is wise to shop for such items only at highly recommended outlets – the last thing you need is to pay large sums for colored glass.
  

CULTURE

• Tell me some common general characteristics of Vietnamese people?
  Answer: According to American Institute of Social Research, the Vietnamese people have 10 major characteristics. 
  1.    Hard working but easy to satisfy
  2.    Smart and creative to cope with short-termed difficulties, but lack long-termed and active reasoning abilities
  3.    Dexterous but hardly pay attention to the final perfection of their products
  4.    Practical and idealistic, but don’t develop either of these tendencies into theories
  5.    Love knowledge and have quick understanding, but hardly learn from the beginning to the end of things, so their knowledge isn’t systemic or fundamental.   In addition, Vietnamese people don’t study just for the sake of knowledge (when small, they study because of their families; growing up, they study for the sake of prestige or good jobs)
  6.    Open-hearted and hospital, but their hospitality doesn’t last
  7.    Thrifty, but many times squander money for meaningless reasons (to save face or to show off) 
  8.    Solidary and helping each other chiefly in difficulties situations and poverty; in better conditions, this characteristic rarely exists
  9.     Love peace, and can endure things, but they are often not frank for sundry reasons, so sacrifice important goals for the sake of small ones
  10.    Like to gather, but lack connectivity to create strength
  
  
  
• How many ethnic minorities are there in Vietnam?
  Answer: There are 54 ethnic groups and 53 of them are minorities. They often live in some mountainous and remote areas in the north, Center Highland, and Mekong Delta.
• What is population of Vietnam?
  Answer: Up to the end of 2011, Viet Nam population reaches 90.5 million and located at 14th biggest population country in the world.
• Can average Vietnamese people speak English well?
  Answer: English is nowadays popular in Viet Nam, especially in big cities. Youth is more professional than elders are when speaking English than elders. Foreign tourists can easily communicate with Vietnamese people in English or asking for help in case of emergency ... However, trying to speak English slowly and clearly is recommended to get dialogue efficiently.
• What is the Vietnamese national costume?
  Answer: For women: “Ao dai” is not only for woment but also the icon of Viet Nam. It’s very simple consisting of a close-fitting blouse, with long panels in the front and back, worn over loose white trousers. Ao dai is the uniform for Vietnamese school girls in high schools and some universities. Many companies also require their female staff to be attired in Ao dai, too.
  For man: In formal and traditional ceremonies, they wear a long gown with slits on either side, and a turban, usually in black or brown made of cotton or silk. However, in modern life, business shirts and trousers have replaced traditional long sleeved shirts and wide trousers. Traditional costumes still exist and efforts are increasingly being made to restore traditional festivals and entertainment, which incorporate traditional costumes.
• What are Vietnamese traditional music?
  Answer: •    Cheo (popular opera) is an original synthesis of folk songs, dance, and narration
  •    Tuong (classical opera) was formed in the 12th century, and in the 17th century it was very much in vogue 
  •    Cai Luong (renovated opera): Compared to Cheo and Tuong, Cai Luong is a new type of theatre
  •    Water puppetry: Puppetry is common throughout the world, but Vietnamese's puppet theatre on water is unique. The art of water puppetry appeared in the Ly dynasty (1010-1225)

  •    Quan Ho singing: The birth place of Quan Ho folk songs is Ha Bac province 

  •    Ca Tru: Ca Tru, an original art performance of academic character, has been preserved for the past 10 centuries  

  
  

OTHERS

• Do and Don’t when traveling Viet Nam?
  Answer: DO
  •    Bring hotel's business card is recommended as it will help you easily find the way back to your hotel if you get lost

  •    Drink plenty of bottled water, especially when walking around sightseeing. No need to carry huge bottles around with you as a vendor is never far away even they will find you before you find them

  •    Although in some large cities, dress is somewhat more comfortable, Viet Nam is still quite conservative country in dress. Therefore, you should wear appropriate clothing, not only to adapt to the weather but it also helps you with friendly locals

  •    Keeping your money, airline tickets, passport and other valuable jewelry in deposited area of the hotel

  •    When you are invited to local home, you always remember to remove your sandals (shoes) and place them in front door before entering

  •    When traveling to the villages of ethnic minorities, you should ask tour guides or ask the villagers to arrange a referral for you because of their different and unique tradition and customs

  
  

  
  DON’T
  •    Bring hotel's business card is recommended as it will help you easily find the way back to your hotel if you get lost

  •    Drink plenty of bottled water, especially when walking around sightseeing. No need to carry huge bottles around with you as a vendor is never far away even they will find you before you find them

  •    Although in some large cities, dress is somewhat more comfortable, Viet Nam is still quite conservative country in dress. Therefore, you should wear appropriate clothing, not only to adapt to the weather but it also helps you with friendly locals

  •    Keeping your money, airline tickets, passport and other valuable jewelry in deposited area of the hotel

  •    When you are invited to local home, you always remember to remove your sandals (shoes) and place them in front door before entering

  •    When traveling to the villages of ethnic minorities, you should ask tour guides or ask the villagers to arrange a referral for you because of their different and unique tradition and customs

  
  
• What is electric power voltage and frequency in Viet Nam? What plugs do they use?
  Answer: Almost hotels in Viet Nam use 220 voltage of electricity. In some large hotels, 110V power system is often available. However, to ensure safe operation for your devices, you should check before use. Bringing electrical switch mobile devices is recommended to transfer your items. Two-pin plug is more popular in hotels, even though some hotels will serve three-pin plug for requested. 
• Is there Internet access in all places around the country?
  Answer: Internet access is usually available in your hotels (wire fire or through modem) and other places like clubs, restaurants or coffee shops in cities. Generally, there is no internet access in rural areas. It may be only available in Internet shop but the internet speed is not high. You can use GPRS service through your mobile phone if in urgent cases.
• Can I make internationals calls everywhere in Vietnam? How much does it cost?
  Answer: You can make an international call from your hotel, post office, or from your cell phone if you use roaming service or Vietnamese sim(s). However, if you use a Vietnamese sim, you must register to local telephone suppliers to make the sim valid. International phone fee in Viet Nam is different depending on where to you want to make your call. Generally, it is pretty expensive. You should be careful to ask the price before using the service. 
• What are visa requirements and entry formalities in Viet Nam?
  Answer:

  Visa exemption:

  Vietnamese people that hold foreign passports and foreigners who are their husbands, wives and children are exempt from visa requirements to enter Viet Nam, and are allowed to stay for not more than 90 days. 

  Bilateral visa exemption agreement

  •    Citizens of Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Laos holding valid ordinary passports are exempt from visa requirements and are allowed to stay for not more than 30 days; Philippines is allowed to stay for not more than 21 days

  •    By February 2011, citizens of China, Kyrgyzstan, North Korea, and Rumania holding valid ordinary passports for official mission. Citizens of 60 countries holding valid diplomatic or official passports are exempt from visa requirements including:  Argentina, Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Belarus, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Chile, China, Croatia, Cuba, Czech Republic, Dominica, Ecuador, France, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Malaysia, Mexico, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Mozambique, Myanmar, Nicaragua, North Korea, Pakistan, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Venezuela

  Unilateral visa exemption

  •    Visa with 30-day validity is exempted for officials from ASEAN secretariat holding different kinds of passports

  •    Citizens of Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Japan and South Korea holding different kinds of passports are exempt from visa requirements, and are allowed to stay for not more than 15 days

  Others who want to enter Viet Nam must be provided with a visa.

  •    Tourist visa is valid in 30 days

  •    Visa is issued at Vietnamese diplomatic offices or consulates in foreign countries. Visa is possibly issued at the border gates to those who have written invitations by a Vietnamese competent agencies or tourists in the tours organized by Vietnamese international travel companies

  •    Required documents for visa: Entry Application (printed form); two 4x6 cm photos; passport; and fee for visa issuance

  
  
• What are useful phone numbers?
  Answer: •    Police: 113
  •    Fire: 114
  •    Emergency: 115
  •    Time: 100117
  •    Information: 1080
  •    Directory Assistance: 116
  •    International Operator: 110
  
• What are public holidays in Viet Nam?
  Answer: •    January 1: New Year
  •    Between late January to late February: Lunar New Year. It is largest holiday of the year, falling on the first three days of lunar calendar; in practice, celebrations are held during the weeks before and after those three days
  •    March 10 (Lunar): King Hung Commemoration Day
  •    April 30: Liberation Day.
  •    May 1: Labor Day
  •    September 2: Independent day (National Day)