Vietnam is an elongated country of diverse landscapes and climates, making the ideal time to visit a variable factor based on where you plan to go. Vietnam experiences two monsoon seasons which significantly impact its weather patterns. The southwest monsoon dominates from April to September, bringing about a wet and warm climate. On the other hand, the northeast monsoon prevails from October to April, presenting less rain but colder temperatures. 

1. North Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Ninh Binh):

Northern Vietnam, encompassing Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay, and mountainous areas like Sapa, Mai Chau, Pu Luong Nature Reserve, Cao Bang, and Ha Giang, generally experiences two distinct seasons within the subtropical climate zone.

     ·       The dry season prevails from November to March in Hanoi and the mountainous areas, with Halong Bay’s dry period beginning in October. December through February marks the coldest and driest months, with temperatures dropping to around 10 degrees Celsius late in December and through January. Halong Bay tends to be chilly, overcast, and misty, while Sapa and Ha Giang may witness occasional snowfall in January, requiring warm clothing for visits to these regions.

     ·       April to May marks the transition from the dry to the rainy season, resulting in a hot period with a humid climate, featuring an average temperature of approximately 37-38 degrees Celsius and a higher chance of clear, sunny skies.

     ·       The rainy season typically extends from June to September, with July and August being the wettest months and the potential for
tropical storms leading to occasional cancellations of Halong Bay cruises.

     ·       Finally, October and November signal the shift from the rainy to the dry season, bringing cooler temperatures around 25 degrees Celsius, refreshing climates, and generally pleasant weather.  

Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Nothern Vietnam are from April to June and September to December. These periods offer pleasant temperatures, with cooler, clear days in autumn and warm, sunny days in spring. Be prepared for hot and humid weather if visiting in June, and bundle up for chilly winter days.

2. Central Vietnam (Phong Nha – Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An – Nha Trang):

Central Vietnam extends from the Quang Nam Province in the north to the Khanh Hoa Province in the south, showcasing remarkable natural beauty characterized by a diverse landscape encompassing beaches, mountains, and valleys. This area is renowned for attractions like Phong Nha National Park, Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An, and Nha Trang. Similar to North Vietnam, central Vietnam experiences typically two distinct seasons:

     ·       The dry period spans from approximately February to August, with a later dry season in Hue starting in March. June through August represents the hottest months, prompting many to seek relief by visiting the beaches.

     ·       The rainy season extends from around September to January, although Nha Trang boasts the shortest rainy season in Vietnam, occurring between September and December. During this time, occasional flooding, particularly from September to November, may lead to temporary closures of caves in Phong Nha National Park and some minor floods in Hoi An’s ancient town.

Best Time to Visit: The most pleasant time to visit Central Vietnam is generally from February to April, characterized by warm and sunny weather. From June to August, the region offers perfect beach conditions with temperatures reaching highs of 35 degrees Celsius.  

3. South Vietnam (Mui Ne – Ho Chi Minh City – Phu Quoc)

Start off in the bustling Ho Chi Minh City, a sensory whirlwind where traditional family-run shops coexist with modern skyscrapers along vibrant streets. Venturing beyond the cityscape reveals the tranquil Mekong Delta, a scenic region characterized by life on water and expansive farmlands stretching endlessly into the horizon. Not far away, Mui Ne beckons vacationers with its relaxed beach atmosphere and reputation as Vietnam’s kite-surfing hub. Off the coast, idyllic islands like Phu Quoc and Con Dao await, offering pristine shores and untouched natural panoramas.

While Mui Ne is geographically part of South Central Vietnam, its climate closely resembles that of Southern Vietnam, hence why it is categorized within the climate of South Vietnam. 

Similar to the Northern and Central regions, the South experiences distinct dry and rainy seasons without transitional periods.

     ·       The dry season typically spans from December to April, featuring relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year, with the hottest months being March, April, and May.

      ·       From May to November marks the rainy season, ending in October for Phu Quoc. This period sees increased rainfall due to the southwest monsoon, creating a warm and wet climate where showers are frequent, commonly occurring in the afternoons. The peak of the rainy season falls from July to September, with Ho Chi Minh City receiving the most rainfall between June and September, and Phan Thiết experiencing its wettest months from September to November.

Best Time to Visit: December to April is the ideal time to visit southern Vietnam, with hot, sunny weather perfect for exploring Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta, and beaches.

1. Vietnam’s visa exemption

Vietnam’s visa exemption policy (also called visa waiver or visa-free policy) allows foreign citizens from specific countries to enter and stay in Vietnam for a designated period without needing a visa or paying related fees. To be eligible, travelers must hold a valid ordinary passport with at least six months of validity and a minimum of two blank pages for entry stamps. It’s essential to meet these requirements and also comply with additional conditions set by Vietnamese authorities to enjoy this privilege.  

Citizens with an ordinary passport from one of the 25 following countries will be waived from a visa to Vietnam: 

Phu Quoc Visa exemption

To facilitate the growth of Phu Quoc Island in Kien Giang Province, Vietnam, Decision 80/2013/QĐ-TTg was established on 27/12/2013. This decision enables foreigners to enter, exit, and reside on Phu Quoc Island for a period not exceeding 30 days without the need for a Vietnam visa. This directive applies to foreigners arriving on Phu Quoc Island directly as well as those transiting through a Vietnam border gate (such as an airport or seaport) and subsequently traveling to Phu Quoc Island.  

In order to enter Vietnam with a Phu Quoc visa exemption, foreigners have to follow some requirements below:

       ·       Owning a passport with 6-month validity upon arrival date.

     ·    Flying from your residing country to Phu Quoc via Phu Quoc International Airport. No matter if direct/indirect/transit flights, your final destination must be Phu Quoc.

       ·       A valid exit date (air ticket, cruise departure date, etc.) showing your duration of stay on Phu Quoc Island is no longer than 30 days.

       ·       Only airport or seaport is available for this visa type.

2. Vietnamese E-Visa

The Vietnamese Immigration Department provides E-visas to foreigners via an online application process. Unlike traditional visas, E-visas do not bear a red stamp of the Vietnam Government authority as they are issued online. These E-visas are valid for up to 90 days and allow for either a single entry for 25 USD or multiple entries for 50 USD, payable via bank transfer. Additionally, E-visa holders have the flexibility to enter and exit Vietnam through 33 specified international border gates, which include all international airports. 

Vietnam E-Visa official website: the National Web Portal on Immigration of Vietnam.

Commercial websites offering E-visa services can facilitate the submission of your E-visa application through this official site, expedite processing where necessary, monitor your E-visa status, obtain the E-visa letter, and deliver it to your email address. 

Designated Entry Points for Vietnam E-Visa Online: please click here for more details.

Vietnam E-Visa Requirements:

When applying for a Vietnam E-visa, it is essential to ensure the following:

·        Your passport remains valid for a minimum of 6 months beyond the arrival date with at least 2 blank pages available.

·        Possess a digital copy of a passport-sized photograph adhering to Vietnam’s visa photo specifications.

·        Have clear and complete soft copies of your passport’s personal data page.

·        Specify the exact entry port you intend to use.

·        Keep a credit or debit card handy for online payment of the E-visa fee (Kindly note that American Express cards are not accepted). 

When you seek an E-visa for Vietnam online, it’s crucial to submit two digital photos: a portrait photo and a passport page photo, each following particular guidelines.  

a. Portrait Photo Requirements:

·        Dimensions should be 4 x 6 cm (standard Vietnamese photo size) or 2 x 2 inches in jpg. and jpeg. format with a maximum file size of <2MB.

·        The photo must be taken within the last 6 months.

·        It should be clear, in focus, colored, unaltered by software, and free of other objects or people.

·        The background should be plain, white, in clear contrast to the subject, and free of shadows.

·        Your image should feature you facing forward with a straight gaze into the camera.

·        Maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed and eyes open and visible.

·        Hair should not cover your eyes, and you should not wear head coverings unless for religious or medical reasons.

·        Do not wear glasses unless necessary. If wearing them, they should not be sunglasses or tinted glasses, and your eyes must be fully visible without any glare, reflection, or shadow.

b. Passport Photo Requirements:

·        It should be clear, high-quality, and in .jpg format.

·        Display all information on your passport page without any missing, cut, or hidden parts.

·        No lost corners.

·        The maximum file size should not exceed 2048Kb.  

Ensuring that your portrait photo and passport page photo meet these specifications is crucial for a smooth application process for a Vietnam E-visa.  

Vietnam E-Visa Processing Time

The typical processing time for a Vietnam E-visa is between 3 to 5 working days to obtain the E-visa letter. Factors such as the volume of applicants or public holidays can influence this timeframe. Therefore, it is advisable to apply for this visa type approximately 3-4 weeks before your departure to allow for ample processing time.  

Numerous applicants encounter delays in their Vietnam E-visa applications because of errors in the information they submit on the official website, such as low-quality photos or incorrect names that do not align with ICAO guidelines.

Ø  Check out for pointers on avoiding Vietnam E-visa application mistakes

Vietnam E-Visa application steps

Below are the complete steps outlining the process to obtain an E-visa for Vietnam.  

👉 Step 1: Complete the Vietnam e-visa application form online by following the steps below:

·        Visit the Vietnam e-visa online official website here.

·        Select English at the top right corner.

·        Choose Viet Nam E-visa > For foreigners outside Viet Nam applying for an E-Visa personally > then tick Apply now

·        A box of notes will be dropped down—please read the declaration instructions carefully.

·        Tick the following confirmations and click the Next button to proceed to the Vietnam E-visa Application Form.

ü  Confirm compliance with Vietnamese laws upon entry

ü  Confirmation of reading carefully instructions and having completed application.

Apply application form:

·        Step 1: Upload personal image and passport data page image. Then, application auto filled up personal information. If wrong, please check and change. Note: Foreigner’s Photo must be a recent photo, size 4x6cm, jpg/jpeg format, file size ≤ 2MB, face looking straight, no hat, no glasses, polite clothes, white background.

·        Step 2.1: Fulfill required information (*) and others (if any)

– Surname and Given name (please ensure these match your account name to avoid processing delays)

– Date of birth

– Current nationality

– Email

– Religion

– Expected travel dates

– Passport type, number, date of issue and expiry

– Trip details: the purpose of entry, intended length of stay, entry/exit points, and temporary address in Vietnam.

·        Step 2.2: If the passport photo is invalid, the system will not allow users to submit the application.

·        Step 3: Confirm and Next

Review the application form to verify that all information is correct, then enter the Captcha and click Next.

👉 Step 2: Make an online payment for the e-visa fee.

👉 Step 3: After around 3-5 working days, check the status and download your Vietnam e-visa.  

To review your Vietnam E-visa application status and download the issued E-visa, follow these steps:

·        Visit this link

·        Enter the necessary details to check your E-visa application status: E-visa code, Email, Date of birth.

·        Enter the Security Code and click Search

·        Check the Application status. If the visa is Granted, you’ll find your E-visa by clicking on the Green arrow beside “Print visa.”

·        Click on the Download icon to acquire your E-visa.   

Vietnam E-Visa Extension

At present, Vietnam E-visas cannot be extended. If you intend to stay in Vietnam beyond the expiration of your E-visa, it’s advised to depart Vietnam
for a neighboring country and then return with a new E-visa – a practice commonly referred to as the Vietnam visa run.  

Summary of Vietnam E-visa Information:

      ·       The Vietnam E-visa allows for stays of up to 90 days with options for single or multiple entries.

      ·       The E-visa fee is non-refundable, emphasizing the importance of providing accurate and complete details in your application.

      ·       Individual applications are necessary when applying directly through the Government website; group applications are not accepted.

      ·       While E-visas were previously extendable in Vietnam, this service is presently unavailable until further notice.

The official currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese dong (VND). You can check the current exchange rate for the Vietnamese dong here.

Visa and Mastercard are generally accepted at hotels, many restaurants, and stores, but they may not be usable at smaller local markets. Additionally,
you can find ATMs in major towns and cities across Vietnam for cash withdrawals.

To get an overview of the price range in Vietnam, you can find more information here.

Tipping Etiquette in Vietnam:

While tipping is appreciated, it’s ultimately optional. Here are some suggested guidelines:

      ·       Guides: Approximately 120,000 dong per person per day, varying based on the quality of service.

      ·       Drivers: About 50,000 dong per person per day, adjusted according to the service quality.

      ·       Porters: Around 25,000 dong per room.

      ·       Maids: Approximately 30,000 dong per room per day.

Regarding Restaurants:

      ·       At international restaurants, a 10% service charge is typically included in the bill. If this charge is included, additional tipping is unnecessary.

      ·       If the service charge is not included, consider adding 50,000-100,000 dong per meal for good service.

      ·        Tipping is not customary at local eateries, but leaving some small change on the table is a kind gesture.   

In most of the locations we visit, we can accommodate food allergies, dietary preferences, and specific allergens. Please remember to inform us of any dietary requirements or preferences at the time of booking your tour.   

Telephones & Wi-Fi: 

Utilizing data and roaming services abroad can be costly if not included in your mobile plan. Contact your mobile provider to understand the services covered in your plan and the associated charges for international travel.

If your mobile subscription does not cover data and roaming abroad, it is advisable to rely on Wi-Fi available at your accommodations or dining establishments. This enables cost-free communication via platforms like Facetime, Messenger, and WhatsApp.

Alternatively, you can purchase a local SIM card with data upon your arrival in Vietnam.

Electricity:

Vietnam has varying voltage standards and plug types, ranging from 110 to 230 volts. Bring along an adapter as Vietnamese outlets may accommodate 2 or 3 pins, in both round and flat configurations.   

Remember to pack essential items in your carry-on bag, including passports, visas, vaccination records, travel documents, insurance papers, credit cards, cash, laptops, mobile devices, cameras, health information, and necessary medications.

Remember to bring sun protection, including a broad-rimmed hat, quality sunglasses, high SPF sunscreen, and lip balm. Additionally, consider packing T-shirts, a compact towel, mosquito repellent, and a sewing kit for minor repairs as essential miscellaneous items.  

Temples enforce a stringent dress code. Ensure your knees and shoulders are covered, avoid see-through clothing, and be prepared to remove your shoes before entering.   

Airline tickets

The majority of airlines use electronic tickets (e-tickets).

It’s crucial to review your name for any spelling errors, as the name on the reservation should precisely match your passport. If a correction is necessary, please reach out to us promptly. Do keep in mind that the airline might charge a fee for this service.  

Seat reservation

The airline will allocate a seat for you during the check-in process. If you have specific preferences regarding your seat location, you can personally reserve a seat on the airline’s website or through their app. Please be aware that most airlines charge for seat reservations.

The timing for when airlines open seat reservations varies, but generally, you can reserve seats from the time of booking up to 48 hours before departure. It’s important to note that the airline retains full authority over all seats on the plane and may, therefore, make changes to reservations at any time.

If you opt not to reserve a seat before departure, the airline will assign you a seat during check-in.  

Check-in

To check-in, you will need your passport and the booking reference found on your itinerary.

We suggest downloading the airline’s app on your smartphone. Through the app, you can conveniently perform online check-in, usually available 24 to 48 hours before departure. Additionally, the app provides updates on any flight modifications and essential details about your journey.

Kindly be aware that flight timings may differ from those indicated on your original travel itinerary. Flight times specified on the airline’s app or website take precedence over those in your initial booking documentation.  

At the airport

We suggest arriving at the airport for check-in at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights depart. Checking the airport’s website for the most recent updates is also advisable.  

Baggage

Vietnam is served by three main airlines, please access the link for more details:

1. Vietnam Airlines

2. Vietjet Air

3. Bamboo Airways  

Delayed baggage

If your luggage is delayed, promptly notify the personnel in the baggage reclaim section to report the delay.

Having your baggage receipt is crucial when filling out the Property Irregularity Report (PIR). Remember not to exit the baggage area at the airport until you have completed the necessary report.

If your baggage is delayed, contact us via the hotline, and we will coordinate to ensure your guide/driver is informed and waits for you.    

Flight delays or cancellations

If any modifications are made to your flight reservation prior to departure, we will promptly reach out to inform you.

In the event of a delay following check-in, the airline will take charge of rebooking your flight. They typically arrange the next available flight and provide meals and accommodation if required.

We will monitor any alterations in arrival times and will, of course, stay to receive you, even if your flight is delayed.

Should the airline book you on a different flight after your arrival at the airport due to a delay or cancellation, please get in touch with us via The Houzy’s emergency number.   

Upon arrival, once you have completed customs clearance and retrieved your luggage, proceed to the exit gate. Look for your guide/driver holding The Houzy signboard bearing your name and connect with them for transportation to the hotel.

Should you encounter difficulty in locating your guide or driver, promptly reach out to our emergency number listed on your travel documents for assistance.   

Typically, normal check-in commences at 2 pm, and earlier room availability cannot be assured. However, early check-in can be arranged for a fee at the time of booking your tour.

Upon check-in, the receptionist will ordinarily record your credit card details and may pre-authorize an amount. This is a standard practice to secure payment for any additional services, such as minibar usage. If unused, the pre-authorized amount will be released upon check-out.

It’s common for hotels to request a copy of your passport, as per local regulations in some areas.

Check-out generally occurs by 11 – 12 pm. If your travel plans are scheduled for the afternoon or evening, you can usually store your luggage until departure. Alternatively, if you prefer a late check-out, this can be arranged for a fee at the time of booking your tour.    

We offer a 24-hour emergency hotline, ensuring that you can reach out to us at any time should any unexpected situations arise during your tour.    

We value feedback from travelers and would love to hear from you upon your return. Please reach out to us via email at info@thehouzytravel.com or give us a call at +84 968 982 846.