Eviva Tour Vietnam

CLIMATE

• What’s the climate like in Vietnam?
  Answer: Because of its geography, the climate in Vietnam varies greatly from north to south with three distinct climatic zones.
  In the north, the rainy season is from August until November. Typhoons are frequent, but not too much of a problem. The north can be quite chilly in winter (Dec. - Feb.).
  The climate in the Delta is sub-equatorial with two main seasons. The wet season lasts from May to October with short downpours occurring almost every day. The dry season lasts from November to April with the last three months of this period being very hot and humid.
  Annual rainfall for the South is approximately 80 inches (2,000 millimeters) while temperatures remain relatively constant - on average, between 77 and 95 F (25-35 C). Between July and November, Vietnam is hit by random, violent typhoons that develop off the coast in the East Sea. They typically hit the central and north coasts and have been with increasing frequency over the past few years.
• What is the best time to visit Central of Vietnam?
  Answer: December to March is the best time to visit the Central Highlands when conditions are usually dry and cool. In this time, the weather is often beautiful with fine, warm days and pleasant evenings. Along the central coast there is a rainy season from December to February. June to October tends to be very dry and hot.
• What is the best time to visit the South of Vietnam?
  Answer: December to April is the best time to visit the south of Vietnam. There are short downpours during the wet season from May to November but they tend to only last a short time so you can still enjoy a visit during these months (just go for lunch when you see the black clouds developing). The Mekong Delta can experience severe flooding during this period making travel very difficult
• What is the best time to visit the North of Vietnam?
  Answer: The best time to visit here is from September to December when it isn't so humid. The weather turns quite cold and wet in January and this continues until March. The humidity can prove oppressive from May to the start of September and there's a danger of flooding.
• In the Philippines there are many storms and a lot of flooding. How is the situation in Vietnam during the rainy season? Is it dangerous?
  Answer: Vietnam has a single rainy season during the south monsoon (May-Sep). Some provinces in Central of Vietnam, such as Nghe An, Thanh Hoa, Ha Tinh, Hue..., usually suffer some storms during this period. Therefore, think twice when deciding to travel these places in this time. In other places, it is hot, but does not rain all day, usually a late afternoon downpour with some dramatic thunder and lightning. The main problem is if you plan to travel by land (bus, bike car). Roads can get flooded, and unpaved roads can get very muddy, and sometimes impassable.

MONEY

• Can I use a credit card or cheques to get cash or to pay for something in Vietnam?
  Answer: ATMs have proliferated throughout Vietnam’s major cities. 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 almost hotels, restaurants and shops. Travellers' cheques now are more difficult to use since passport are 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 the main cities.
• How much money will I need each day for food and other expenses?
  Answer: Vietnam inflation is slightly high in 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 will 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, and often 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 Vietnam?
  Answer: Tipping inspires great service and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry in Vietnam. In local markets and basic restaurants we suggest rounding your bill up to the nearest 1-2 USD. In more up-market restaurants 5% to 10% is appropriate. If you are happy with the services provided by your guides and drivers, we suggest a tip of 3-5 USD per person per day for guides and 2 USD per 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 prices or do I have to bargain in Vietnam?
  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.
  
  In Vietnam you’ll discover one unmistakable fact: Vietnamese people love noodles. They eat them every day, sometimes for every meal. Vietnamese noodles are made from a few basic ingredients, the most common being rice, wheat and beans, but a whole sub-cuisine is built on these basics.
  
• What are the different tastes of Vietnam cuisine?
  Answer: Like everything else, Vietnamese food also differs geographically from location to location. North Vietnam’s food uses soy sauce, fish sauce and prawn sauce and has many stir fried dishes.
  
  With harsh weather and less developed agriculture than the South, North Vietnamese tend to use less 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 Vietnam is distinct in its extreme spices and color of food. Hue’s cuisine, affected by royal cuisine once created for kings and queens, emphasized on quality and quantity – A meal constitutes of many complex dishes served only at small proportions.
  
  Southern Vietnamese are heavily affected by Cambodia, 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. Southerners prefer seafood and use simple cooking methods with larger and less servings.
• How about the food safety? Is all the food you eat clean?
  Answer: Foods in Vietnam 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 must reduce cost to maintain their profit. This leads to the decrease of safety rate in street foods. In general, if you are afraid of having problem with your belly, you really should go to big restaurants, or trusted address to have a meal.
• Is Vietnam a safe country?
  Answer: Vietnam is generally a safe destination by world standards, but usual common sense precautions are advisable. In recent years petty street crime in large cities has risen. Always keep a photocopy of your passport, airline tickets and credit card numbers, and a detailed record of your traveller's cheques. You should leave valuables in hotel safety deposit boxes wherever possible. In large cities, such as Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, we recommend you wear as little jewelry as possible and keep your spending money close to your body in a secure place when out on the street.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

• What’s the situation about the tropical diseases in Vietnam?
  Answer: Located in countries with tropical and subtropical countries, Vietnam is facing many diseases such as Filarial lymphangitis, Trachoma and Helminth parasitic diseases. The diseases usually occur in areas of poor economic and social conditions, and hygiene.
  
  The parasitic disease transmitted through food is also one of the very common disease. This is a health problem that now Vietnam is also difficult to push back due to eating habit, methods of livestock and poultry, the ecological factors, environmental and personal hygiene.
• Should I take medical precautions against tropical diseases beforehand?
  Answer: It is better for you if you can take medical precautions against tropical diseases before traveling Vietnam. It is partly due to complicated of appearing and changing situation of these diseases in Vietnam, and partly because you may be unfamiliar with climate in Vietnam. However, if you do not take precautions beforehand, it is not a big problem. However, remember some advices below 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 and carry a hand sanitizer to help 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 and are also Western medicines stored up?
  Answer: Some Vietnamese medicines are produced based on patent purchased from foreign pharmaceutical companies. Therefore, quality is same but with cheaper price compared to Western medicines. Other some originally produced Vietnamese drugs also provide effective treatment for diseases.
  
  When you buy medicines, you should buy at stores in hospital or big stores. Then you absolutely rely on quality of drug as well as price they charged. In some small stores, maybe they do not provide many types of drug as big ones.
• Is drinking water hygienic at all places?
  Answer: Frankly, it is not. Nowadays, bottle water is popular and necessary for daily life in Vietnam due to its convenience. Therefore, in recent years, the number of bottled water brands increased rapidly in market. However, not all brands can be satisfied quality inspection criteria of Health Ministry. Some producers respect profit at the highest level and therefore, provide consumers poor quality bottle water that can bring bad influence on the health.
  
• Is Vietnam a good place to take children to?
  Answer: Vietnam is very child-friendly. The Vietnamese are family oriented and regularly travel with their own children during holiday periods. If you are travelling 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 chances I will be robbed?
  Answer: Like anywhere in the world, Vietnam has thieves. Robberies do happen, though they tend to be snatch and grabs rather than muggings. The golden rule is don't take anything out with you that you can't afford to lose, and 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. As well, it’s wise to use a money belt. Avoid leaving your mobile phone or camera while sitting at a restaurant table or bar and 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 Vietnam?
  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’s the time difference with Vietnam?
  Answer: Time zone of Vietnam: GMT + 7 (the same zone as Thailand, Laos and Cambodia)
• What means of transportation do you use and how is the quality?
  Answer: Travel in Vietnam is easier than it used to be. Means of transportation are usually very comfortable.
  + By air: You can travel some far destinations by air. However, just some, not all.  And scheduled flights to some destinations are few and late changes in aircraft type can impact travel plans.
  
  + By train:  Rail is still slow. The rail network is limited. Lines run between Ha Noi – Sai Gon, Ha Noi - Lao Cai, Ha Noi – Lang Son. The train stations for some destinations can be literally in the middle of nowhere. The rolling-stock is generally serviceable, but old and spartan by western standards.
  
  + By local bus: One of the advantages of this kind of means is its cheap price. Just VND 3,000 for 1-way ticket to travel some destinations in Ha Noi and a little higher in other places. But the disadvantage is inconvenience due to late schedule and traffic jam in big cities (Ha Noi, Ho Chi Minh).
  
  + By taxi: It is convenient for travelers using taxi to go sightseeing. But remember to choose reliable taxi name by asking tour guide or receptionist of hotel you live. Don’t forget to remind taxi drive 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 a must in Vietnamese Dong.
  
  Bicycle or motorbike rentals can be found in major cities of interest, like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh or Hue, Hoi An but make sure that you understand the traffic rules before riding.
  
  On Foot: You may need to learn how to cross city streets, especially in Saigon and Hanoi. City traffic in Vietnam is like "water on wheels",  It is constantly moving on and flowing around everything in its path. The daytime traffic never stops. People are always on the move.
• How is the quality of the trains and do you have high speed trains like in China?
  Answer: Train travel can be a great way to experience Vietnam. The most common routes are the overnight journeys between Hue and Ha Noi and Ha Noi and Sa Pa. 4-berth soft sleeper compartments, which are clean and comfortable are recommended. Most luggage stows easily under the bottom berth or in racks above the top berth. We recommend bringing earplugs as the train is quite noisy and it can be difficult to sleep at night.
  At the moment, Vietnam has not had high speed trains, yet.
  
• Which are the international and domestic airports in Vietnam?
  Answer: There are 3 international airports in Vietnam including Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi), Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh) and Da Nang International Airport (Da Nang), and other 12 airports located throughout country including:
  + 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 within Vietnam are with Vietnam Airlines. The fleet is modern and comfortable, with most flights using 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 against taking cyclos at night unless they are registered with a hotel. Taxis are safe and metered provided you use a reputable company. To assist in finding your way back to your hotel, make sure you obtain a hotel address card, to show drivers where you want to go.
• Are the taxis reliable? Do they have a taxi meter or do you have to bargain the price?
  Answer: In Vietnam as generally and in Ha Noi as particularly, there are so many taxi companies that provide transport services and the quality as well as fee is also little different. Besides “authentic” taxi which is reliable and worthy, “fake” ones can bring you troubles if you unluckily catch them for your movement, like expensive charge, bad attitude of taxi driver or longer distance than needed...Therefore, you can ask receptionist in your hotel to call for you a taxi when you want to go sightseeing. And don’t forget to ask taxi drivers to switch on meter when starting your travel.
  List of taxi companies in Hanoi is provided in the below link as 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 at the airport and in general?
  Answer: Usually, at the airport taxi stand, there will be staff to help you communicate with the taxi drivers. In locations with greater numbers of tourists the drivers generally have a greater understanding of English. However, it is best to speak slowly and enunciate your destination name, trying different tones and inflections until the driver recognizes the name.
• What are taxi names that are safe and convinient for transport from/to Noi Bai and Tan Son Nhat airport?
  Answer: In Vietnam, there are so many taxi companies that provide transport services and the charge is also little different. At the airport, you can ask Information Center to call a taxi for you, or you can get easily a taxi in airport exterior. Some taxi names you can trust on high quality, service attitude and cheap price are listed below.
  In Ha Noi: Noi Bai taxi, Airport taxi, Viet Thanh taxi, Dai Nam taxi...
  + Average fee for transport from Airport to Ha Noi Center is about $15-$18
  + Average fee for transport from Ha Noi Center to Airport is about $10-$13
  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 first two kilometres and $0.4/km for next kilometers.
  + Average fee for transport from Airport to Ho Chi Minh Center is about $3 - $4

TRAFFIC

• How are the roads and road 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 resulting in landslides. Travelers should exercise extreme caution in the countryside, as road conditions are particularly poor in rural areas.
  
  There is a good highway from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. Vietnam 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, and motorcycles and bicycles often travel (illegally) against the flow of traffic.
  
  Traffic in Vietnam 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 or not if I ask them information?
  Answer: Yes, of course. You can ask traffic police for help when you get lost or have trouble in streets. However, English speaking skill of Vietnamese police is not good. Therefore, maybe they will use body language  to express their ideas.

SIGHTSEEING

• What are the World Heritages sites in Vietnam?
  Answer: •    Halong 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 do you recommend in and around Hanoi?
  Answer: Hanoi 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 Hanoi
  The intoxicating tangle of streets makes up Hanoi's commercial heart. Many are still dedicated to one particular craft; don't miss the jaunty prayer banners of Hang Quat, Lan On's fragrant medicines and Hang Ma, draped in tinsel, votive objects and all manner of paper products.
  Hoan Kiem Lake
  Immediately south of the Old Quarter, Ho Hoan Kiem (Lake of the Restored Sword) takes on different personalities at different times of 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 the 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 Hanoi.
  
  With a few days to spare, a trip to Halong 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 the more touristy destination of Halong City. Other sights around Hanoi include the Perfume Pagoda (a vast, sacred cave accessible only by river), Tam Coc (another river trip, this time near Ninh Binh) or the mountain villages of Sapa and Bac Ha near the Chinese border.
• What major sights do you recommend in and around Ho Chi Minh City?
  Answer: Larger and more cosmopolitan than its northern rival, Ho Chi Minh City (or Saigon as most locals still call 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 Vietnam'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 Saigon's many pagodas and temples, this is the most captivating. It was built by the 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 the Cao Dai Cathedral and the 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 exploring the Mekong Delta.
  
• What major sights do you recommend in and around Hue, Vietnam?
  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 will have been damaged in the 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. Much 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 do you recommend in and around Da Nang, Vietnam?
  Answer: Da Nang is one of Vietnam's fourth largest cities. Now a major harbour it was once home to a huge American Air Force base in the Vietnam 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, Vietnam
  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
  Best for 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 retains its charm despite the 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 valuable 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 Vietnam 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 times of shopping centers?
  Answer: Most restaurants and shops in Vietnam open from 08h00 till 23h00.
  
• How can I know a souvenir is authentic or just a copy?
  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; copy “antiques” are not uncommon in the Vietnamese market. As for jewellery, although Vietnam 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 characters of Vietnamese people?
  Answer: According to the 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 help each other chiefly in difficult 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 do exist 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 River.
• How big is Vietnam’s population?
  Answer: Up to now, end of 2011, population of Vietnam reaches 90.5 million and located at 14th biggest population country in the world.
• Do average Vietnamese people speak English well?
  Answer: English is nowadays popular in Vietnam, especially in big cities and youth is more professional in speaking English than elders. Foreign tourists can easily communicate with Vietnamese people in English or ask them in case of emergency like get lost... However, try to speak English slowly and clearly to get more efficient dialogue.
• What’s the national costume of Vietnam?
  Answer: For women: “Ao dai” is the national costume and icon of Vietnam. It’s very simple, consisting of a close-fitting blouse, with long panels in the front and back, that is worn over loose white trousers. Ao dai is the uniform for female students in all Vietnamese 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 traditional music in Vietnam?
  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 would, but Vietnam'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 in 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 Vietnam?
  Answer: DO
  •    Before leaving the hotel, to bring the hotel's business card as it will help you return to your hotel more easily if you get lost.
  •    Drink plenty of bottled water, especially when walking around sightseeing. No need to carry huge bottles around with you, a vendor is never far away and no doubt they will find you before you find them.
  •    Although in some large cities, the dress is somewhat more comfortable, Vietnam is still very conservative country in dress. Therefore, you should wear appropriate clothing, not only to adapt to the weather but it also help you with friendly locals.
  •    Should send money, airline tickets, passport and other valuable jewelry in the deposited area of the hotel.
  •    When you are invited to local home, you always remember to remove and take sandals (shoes) 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
  •    Wear a lot of jewellery or take a bag with you. Violent crime is highly unusual in Vietnam, but petty crime is more apparant. If you have a bag, or tout a digital camera around your neck, you are a potential target.
  •    When taking a ride by motorbike taxi (xe om) make sure your bag, if any, is not on display or easy to grab. Bag snatches, although still rare, are probably the most likely crime a tourist would encounter, and it raises the probability immensely if you are tailing a camera or a laptop in the wind.
  •    Do not wear too short or too revealing clothes, skirts, dresses at church or temple.
  •    Physical displays of affection between lovers in public are frowned upon. That’s why you may come across couples holding hands but not hugging or kissing.
  •     Losing your temper in Vietnam means a loss of face. Keep a cool head and remain polite, you’ll have a greater chance of getting what you want.
  •    Remember, this is Vietnam, a developing country, and things don’t quite work as you are maybe used to. Don’t be paranoid about your safety, just be aware of your surroundings.
  •    Do not try to take pictures in places and the forbidden region are not allowed to take pictures.
  
• What’s the electric power voltage and frequency in Vietnam? What plugs do they use?
  Answer: Almost hotels in Vietnam use 220 voltage of electricity. In some large hotels, they are often more available 110V power system. However, to ensure safe operation for your devices, you should check before use and prepared electrical switch mobile devices to transfer your items. Also usually, 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. However, in rural areas, it is not. 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 cellphone if you use roaming service or use Vietnam sim. However, if you use a Vietnam sim, you must register to local telephone suppliers to make the sim valid. International phone fee in Vietnam is different, depends on to where you make a call. Generally, it is pretty expensive price. You should be careful to ask the price before use to contact foreign home.
  
• What are the visa requirements and entry formalities in Vietnam?
  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 Vietnam 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 Vietnam must be provided with a visa.
  •    Tourist visa is valid in 30 days.
  •    Visa is issued at the 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.
  •    Application files for visa: the entrance application (printed form); two 4x6 cm photos; passport and fee for the visa issuance.
  
• What are useful phone number?
  Answer: •    Police: 113
  •    Fire: 114
  •    Emergency: 115
  •    Time: 117
  •    Information: 1080
  •    Directory Assistance: 116
  •    International Operator: 110
  
• What are public holidays in Vietnam?
  Answer: •    January 1: New Year date
  •    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): Hung Vuong Kings Commemoration Day
  •    April 30: Liberation day.
  •    May 1: Labor day
  •    September 2: Independent day (National day)