Jurisdiction Guide

Vietnam stretches over 1,600km north to south with distinct climate zones. The north (Hanoi, Ha Long Bay): October-December for cool, dry weather. Central Vietnam (Hue, Hoi An): February-May before the heat. The south (Ho Chi Minh City): December-April (dry season). Sapa rice terraces are greenest September-October. The central highlands are pleasant November-April. Tet (Vietnamese New Year, January/February) is a cultural highlight but many businesses close.

Traffic looks terrifying, just walk steadily and traffic will flow around you. Never stop suddenly. Grab is the important app (ride-hailing, food delivery, payments). Haggle at markets but not at restaurants. Vietnamese coffee (cà phê sữa đá, iced coffee with condensed milk) is addictive. Cash is still king in smaller establishments, ATMs are widespread. Motorbike rental is popular but traffic is dangerous without experience. Always carry toilet paper. "Xin chào" (hello) goes a long way.

Vietnamese people are friendly, curious, and proud. Remove shoes when entering homes and some shops. When receiving something, use both hands. Dress modestly at temples and pagodas. Never touch someone's head. Pointing with one finger is rude, use an open hand. Chopstick etiquette: don't stick them upright in rice (resembles incense for the dead). "Face" (saving face) is important, avoid public confrontation or criticism. Gifts should be wrapped attractively.

Vietnam is generally safe but petty crime exists in tourist areas. Phone and bag snatching from motorbikes is the most common crime, hold bags on the building side and keep phones secure. Avoid taking unmarked taxis, use Grab or metered cabs from reputable companies. Scams include cyclo overcharging and fake tour agencies. Traffic is the biggest danger, cross roads confidently at a steady pace. Food poisoning risk is low if you eat at busy stalls. Emergency: 113 (police), 115 (ambulance).

Beyond Ha Long Bay and Hoi An, explore Ninh Binh's limestone karsts (the "Ha Long Bay on land"), Phong Nha caves (the world's largest cave systems), the sand dunes of Mui Ne, the mountainous Ha Giang loop by motorbike, or the Mekong Delta's floating markets. Ban Gioc waterfall on the Chinese border is spectacular. Dalat's cool highlands and French villas offer a different Vietnam. Con Dao islands have pristine beaches and historical significance.

Many nationalities now get visa-free entry for 45 days (extended from 15 days in 2023). E-visas are available for 90 days. Vietnam does not yet have a specific digital nomad visa, most remote workers use tourist visas or business visas. The Work Permit requires employer sponsorship. The Temporary Residence Card is available for investors, business owners, and skilled workers. Investment visas require varying amounts depending on the sector.

Domestic flights are cheap and efficient, VietJet, Bamboo Airways, and Vietnam Airlines connect major cities. Sleeper buses are a uniquely Vietnamese experience for intercity travel. The Reunification Express train from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City is a classic 36-hour journey. Grab is important for city transport. Motorbike rental is popular but requires a valid license (technically). Internal tours organized through hotels are convenient for remote areas.

Vietnamese cuisine is one of the world's finest. Must-try: phở (beef or chicken noodle soup, eaten for breakfast), bánh mì (the world's best sandwich), bún chả in Hanoi (grilled pork with noodles, Obama's favorite), cao lầu in Hoi An, fresh spring rolls, and bánh xèo (crispy crepes). Street food is the soul of Vietnamese eating, look for tiny plastic chairs and crowds. Vietnamese coffee is exceptional. Bia hơi (fresh draft beer) costs 5,000-10,000 VND ($0.20-0.40).

Vietnam is extremely affordable. Budget: $25-40/day. Mid-range: $50-100/day. Hostels: $5-12/night. Mid-range hotels: $25-60/night. Street food meals: $1-3. Restaurant meals: $3-10. A bowl of phở: $1.50-3. Bia hơi (draft beer): $0.20-0.40. Long-term apartments in Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi: $300-600/month. Digital nomads can live comfortably on $800-1,500/month. Da Nang is increasingly popular for its beach lifestyle and low costs.