Discovering Vietnam: 10 Fascinating Things You Need to Know

Unexpected Surprises from the Start

Our journey began with an unexpected twist: losing our passport and cash while transferring to a luxurious cruise ship. While this was less than ideal, it led to a memorable experience showcasing the efficiency and hospitality of the Vietnamese people. Just one call to Linh Nguyen, the owner of A Travelmate, and everything was resolved within two hours at a remarkably reasonable fee.

Unique Traffic Conditions

Traffic in Vietnam, especially in Hanoi, can be quite bewildering for travelers. Motorbikes, cars, and bicycles weave together in a high-speed negotiation, showcasing the skill and caution of the participants. There aren’t many traffic signs, and crossing the street can sometimes feel like a challenge. Interestingly, during our two weeks there, we didn’t witness a single accident. Perhaps this is a testament to the friendly and polite nature of the Vietnamese people.

Unexpected Living Costs

The cost of living in Vietnam truly surprises visitors. With around 100,000 VND (over 3.5 million VND for £100), you can easily become a millionaire. A taxi ride from the airport to downtown Hanoi costs about 250,000 VND, while a can of beer is only around 10,000 VND. If you want to enjoy dinner for two at a casual restaurant, you only need to spend about 300,000 VND.

The Scenic Hills of Da Lat

Between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City lies a lush and picturesque Vietnam. Da Lat, with its temperate climate and just a 50-minute flight from Ho Chi Minh City, is the perfect destination to experience tranquility and stunning nature. We watched the sunset over the hills and visited flower gardens that produce about 2.4 billion stems of flowers each year.

Phu Quoc - A Beach Paradise

Phu Quoc is a popular island known for its pristine beaches and fresh air. Several luxury resorts are currently under construction, so if you want to experience this paradise, plan your trip early. One must-visit spot is the Sailing Club, which offers private villas with pools and full amenities. The total cost for a week is around 80 million VND, an incredibly reasonable price for the experience you’ll have.

The War Remnants Museum

The War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City is a place where the international community can learn more about Vietnam's painful history. The exhibits in the museum vividly illustrate the horrors of the Vietnam War, where approximately 1.1 million Vietnamese soldiers and millions of civilians lost their lives.

The Cu Chi Tunnels

A two-hour trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels allows you to experience the strategies of the Viet Cong during the war. The tunnels were hand-dug and hidden beneath the foliage, where they fought against enemy forces. You can explore these dark tunnels yourself, but it’s not an experience for the faint-hearted.

Useful Information for Vietnam Travelers

To enter Vietnam, citizens from many countries do not need a visa for stays under 15 days. However, keep in mind that flight times from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat or Phu Quoc typically take only about an hour. Travel costs are also very reasonable, starting from 1 million VND for a domestic flight. With the hospitality and friendliness of the locals, a trip to Vietnam promises to leave you with beautiful memories.