Fun Facts You Need to Know Before You Go to Vietnam

Do I need a visa to travel to Vietnam?

Here are fun facts about Vietnam that you should know. Visa depends on the country of which you are a citizen. Vietnam allows tourists from Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand to enter the country visa-free for less than 30 days; from the Philippines for less than 21 days; from Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Norway, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom for less than 15 days.

What’s the currency of Vietnam?

Vietnam uses the dong as currency. The dong is available in coin denominations of 200, 500, 1000 and 2000. Banknotes, on the other hand, are available in denominations of 100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10000, 20000, 50000, 100000, 200000, and 500000.

Is English widely spoken in Vietnam?

Here are other fun facts about Vietnam. English is widely understood in large cities and tourist hubs in Vietnam. However, not everyone in these places can speak English fluently. Local English speakers become even rarer as you venture into the countryside. It may help if you know French, but it’s safer to learn a few Vietnamese phrases before you travel to the country.

Can I use my mobile phone in Vietnam? What about the internet?

You’ll have to register for international roaming services with your service provider before traveling to Vietnam if you want to use your own mobile phone. However, it may be cheaper to buy a local prepaid SIM card instead. As for internet access, there are plenty of internet cafes in big cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, and Da Nang. Social networking sites like Facebook are blocked, however.

What’s the electricity supply in Vietnam? Can I use my electric gadgets there?

Vietnam has an electricity supply of 220V. Plugs there are generally two-pin, both round and vertical. You can easily buy adapters from hardware stores there if you need them.

How do I get around in Vietnam?

Traveling from city to city is best done by rail or bus. Rail travel is safer and faster; it also allows you to see the countryside and interact with your fellow passengers. Travel by bus is cheap and comfortable enough, but the traffic and the rough roads can make the trip a challenge. You can also take domestic flights if you can afford it. Within towns and cities, you can flag down a taxi. Another option is riding a xe om, a motorized rickshaw similar to the Thai tuk-tuk.

Is a dress code observed in Vietnam?

The Vietnamese are largely tolerant of how foreigners dress in their country. However, it’s better to limit wearing shorts and sleeveless tank tops to the beach. Women, in particular, are advised to dress modestly, especially in the rural areas.

Are there etiquette rules I need to observe in Vietnam?

Rude and loud behaviour is looked down upon in Vietnam. So, even if you are getting irritated by a situation you’re in, it’s best that you stay calm. You won’t get what you want by shouting or expressing anger. Also, remove your shoes when entering a holy place or someone’s home. Additionally, it’s better to ignore babies than admire them; the Vietnamese believe that admiring and praising a baby will make the child attractive to evil spirits.

Do I need to leave a tip when availing of services in Vietnam?

Tipping your servers at a restaurant is not required, but it’s highly appreciated, nonetheless. Keep your tips to just a few thousand dong or 10% of your total bill.

What numbers do I need to call in case I get in an emergency situation in Vietnam?

In case of emergency, you can call the following numbers: 112 for search and rescue, 113 for the police, 114 for the fire department, and 115 for the ambulance services.

That’s the fun facts you need to know before you go to Vietnam. But before that, make sure to visit 12 exciting Vietnam destinations. Book your trip with us, and we will arrange everything.