Vietnam, a country located in Southeast Asia, is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history. From the breathtaking charm of Ha Long Bay to the tropical forests in Sapa, Vietnam offers a variety of amazing destinations suitable for adventurers and nature lovers. In addition, cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are cultural hubs with unique architecture and dynamic lifestyles.

Beyond its natural beauty and culture, there are several practical things to know to make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. This article provides a complete guide to everything you need to know about Vietnam, from the visa application process to the local etiquette and culture that should be respected.

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Vietnam is one of the most attractive countries for tourism! If you're planning a vacation to Vietnam, there are some important things you should know regarding visa requirements, customs regulations, and entry and exit procedures. Below is all the information you need to make your trip to Vietnam easier.

For Indonesian tourists, the good news is that you are visa-free for up to 30 days when visiting Vietnam for tourism. This means you don't need to apply for a visa beforehand if your stay doesn't exceed 30 days. However, if you plan to stay longer, you will need to apply for a tourist visa at the Vietnamese Embassy or online through the Vietnam E-Visa.

To apply for a visa, you will need:

When arriving in Vietnam, you should be aware of the items you're bringing with you. Certain items are prohibited, such as drugs, firearms, and explosives. For electronic devices or other valuables, make sure to declare them when passing through customs, especially if the items are of high value.

You are allowed to bring:

There are also restrictions on the amount of currency you can bring into or out of Vietnam. You are allowed to bring up to USD 5,000 without declaration. If you exceed this amount, you must report it to customs officials.

Upon arrival in Vietnam, you will go through the following procedures:

Exit Procedures from Vietnam

Similar to the entry process, when leaving Vietnam, you will go through immigration procedures. Make sure you have not overstayed your permitted time, as overstaying can result in fines. If you are carrying more currency than the allowed limit, remember to declare it at customs before leaving Vietnam.

Also, check if a COVID-19 test or health certificate is required for returning to Indonesia or traveling to another country.

Transportation To and From Vietnam

Vietnam offers several convenient and affordable transportation options. International airports such as Noi Bai in Hanoi and Tan Son Nhat in Ho Chi Minh City provide direct flights from several major cities in Indonesia. Once you arrive, you can choose from taxis, buses, or trains to explore Vietnam.

With this information, you’re now better prepared to plan your trip to Vietnam. Enjoy your holiday, and don't forget to always follow the rules and regulations of the destination country!

Vietnam is a country rich in history and culture, making it an appealing holiday destination. However, it’s important for you as a traveler to understand and respect the local laws and customs to ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip. This article provides practical guidance on etiquette, laws, religion, and communication in Vietnam.

Vietnam has many customs and traditions that are still well-preserved, and as a visitor, it’s essential to follow their social etiquette. Here are some general rules you should know:

Like any other country, Vietnam has laws that must be followed to avoid trouble during your trip. Here are some important laws you need to be aware of:

Religion plays a vital role in everyday life in Vietnam, particularly Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism. As a visitor, it’s important to respect their religious practices, especially when visiting places of worship.

1. Visiting Temples: When visiting temples or pagodas, always dress modestly, remove your hat or shoes if required, and avoid taking photos without permission, especially in sacred areas.

2. Interacting with Locals: Always show respect to monks or elders by slightly bowing or smiling. Also, when giving or receiving something, use both hands as a sign of respect.

The dominant language in Vietnam is Vietnamese, and while many people in major cities can speak English, it will be helpful to learn a few basic phrases in Vietnamese to communicate better with the locals. Here are some phrases you can learn:

By mastering these basic phrases, you will find it easier to interact with the locals, and they will appreciate your efforts to adapt to their culture. Learning a little about the traditions and customs of your destination can make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable.

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Vietnam is located in Southeast Asia, bordered by China to the north, Laos to the northwest, Cambodia to the southwest, and the South China Sea to the east. The country has a population of about 100 million, with major cities like Hanoi (the capital) and Ho Chi Minh City, which serve as centers of business and culture.

Politically, Vietnam operates under a socialist system, where the government plays a major role in managing the country. Economically, Vietnam has experienced rapid growth in recent years, particularly in the manufacturing and tourism sectors. While the economy is stable, it's still important to be cautious, especially in rural areas where traditions are more prevalent, and development is less advanced.

Overall, Vietnam is a safe country for tourists, including Indonesian travelers. However, there are a few things you should be aware of to ensure your safety during your trip:

Every trip to a foreign country presents new challenges, especially if you’ve never visited that country before. To ensure your vacation is safe and enjoyable, here are a few tips you can follow:

1. Respect Local Customs and Culture: Vietnam highly values its norms and culture. Always dress modestly, especially when visiting places of worship such as temples and pagodas. Additionally, avoid behaviors that could be seen as inappropriate, such as speaking loudly or showing excessive public displays of affection.

2. Stay Connected with the Embassy: Always make sure you have the contact information for the Indonesian Embassy in Hanoi or the Consulate in Ho Chi Minh City. You can contact the embassy if you encounter any issues during your trip. Here is the contact information:

3. Beware of Tourist Scams: Some tourists may encounter scams at popular tourist sites. Make sure you use official tour services and always negotiate prices before using tuk-tuks or taxis.

4. Food Safety: Vietnam is famous for its delicious street food, but make sure you buy food from clean vendors to avoid stomach issues. Always wash your hands before eating and drink bottled water.

5. Use a Local SIM Card: To stay connected during your trip in Vietnam, you can buy an affordable local SIM card. This will help you access the internet and stay in touch with family and friends in Indonesia.

When traveling to Vietnam, maintaining your health is crucial to ensure you can enjoy your trip comfortably. Vietnam has adequate healthcare systems in major cities, but there are a few things you should be aware of regarding access to medical facilities, necessary vaccinations, and emergency contacts if you need medical care.

Generally, access to healthcare in Vietnam is relatively easy in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Large hospitals and modern clinics are available in city centers, and many doctors speak English. However, in rural areas, medical facilities may be more limited, and you may have difficulty finding English-speaking doctors or adequate medical equipment.

Some well-known hospitals in major cities include:

To avoid high medical costs, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers healthcare. This way, you can feel more secure if you require medical care during your stay in Vietnam.

Before traveling to Vietnam, there are several vaccinations that are recommended, though not all are mandatory.

Make sure to check the latest requirements from local authorities or the Vietnamese consulate before your trip.

While in Vietnam, it's a good idea to keep a few emergency numbers and important medical contacts on hand. Here are some useful numbers to note:

Health Tips During Your Stay in Vietnam

To stay healthy during your trip to Vietnam, here are a few tips you can follow:

1. Drink Safe Water: It's best to drink only bottled water and avoid tap water, as the cleanliness of tap water in some areas may not be guaranteed.

2. Avoid Unclean Food: Vietnam's street food is very tempting, but make sure to buy from clean and hygienic vendors. Always wash your hands before eating.

3. Use Mosquito Repellent: Vietnam is a tropical country, so the risk of mosquito bites is quite high, especially in rural areas. Always use mosquito repellent or wear long clothing to protect yourself from bites.

With adequate healthcare facilities in major cities, access to medical services in Vietnam is relatively easy for tourists. Don’t forget to save emergency numbers and the nearest hospitals, and have travel insurance as a precaution.

Read more: Best Time to Visit Sapa, Vietnam

When planning a trip to Vietnam, it’s important to understand the weather conditions and potential natural disasters in the country. Vietnam has a tropical climate that varies, along with some natural disasters that you need to be aware of.

Vietnam has a tropical and subtropical climate, divided into two main seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. Weather conditions can vary greatly depending on the region you visit.

1. Rainy Season: The rainy season in Vietnam typically occurs between May and October. During this period, there is heavy rainfall, particularly in the central and southern regions of Vietnam. The average temperature ranges from 25-30°C, with high humidity levels. This season often brings heavy rains and tropical storms, so if you travel during this time, make sure to bring an umbrella or raincoat.

2. Dry Season: The dry season lasts from November to April, with cooler temperatures, especially in northern Vietnam. In areas like Hanoi, temperatures can drop to 15°C during winter. In the southern region, like Ho Chi Minh City, the weather is warmer year-round, with average temperatures ranging from 28-35°C. The dry season is the most ideal time to visit, as the weather tends to be more stable and dry.

3. Best Time to Visit: If you want to enjoy comfortable weather without the risk of rain, the best time to visit Vietnam is between November and April, during the dry season.

Vietnam is prone to several types of natural disasters, particularly tropical storms, floods, and landslides. Here’s an explanation of the most common disasters in Vietnam:

1. Tropical Storms and Typhoons: Tropical storms frequently occur during the rainy season, particularly in the northern and central regions of Vietnam. These storms can bring heavy rains, strong winds, and flash floods. If you visit during the rainy season, always check the weather forecast and be prepared for bad weather.

2. Flooding: Flooding is one of the most common natural disasters in Vietnam, particularly in low-lying areas such as the Mekong Delta and major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Floods can disrupt traffic and access to certain tourist destinations.

3. Landslides: In mountainous areas, such as northern Vietnam, landslides frequently occur during the rainy season. Travelers who wish to explore rural areas or go trekking in the mountains need to be cautious, especially after heavy rains.

The Vietnamese government has established a solid emergency response system to deal with natural disasters. There are various precautionary and evacuation measures already in place, including early warning systems that disseminate information through media and sirens.

Tips for Dealing with Natural Disasters

To ensure your safety during your trip to Vietnam, here are a few tips you can follow:

Emergency numbers you should note: