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Official name: Socialist Republic of Vietnam
Capital city: Hanoi
Languages spoken: Vietnamese, limited English and French in some areas
Population: Around 100 million
Currency: Vietnamese dong (VND)
Time zone: GMT+7
Driving side: Right
Climate: Hot and humid in the south, cooler in the north with distinct rainy and dry seasons
Vietnam offers an irresistible mix of buzzing cities, breathtaking landscapes, and mouth-watering cuisine. Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City pulse with energy, while Ha Long Bay, Sapa, and the Mekong Delta showcase the country’s natural beauty. Travellers are drawn to its history, food, and friendly people, making it one of Southeast Asia’s top destinations.
Petty theft and road accidents are the main risks for visitors. Political protests are rare but discouraged by the government. LGBTQIA+ travellers may find social attitudes conservative, though Vietnam is more open than many nearby countries.
Vietnam stretches down the eastern edge of mainland Southeast Asia, bordered by China, Laos, Cambodia, and the South China Sea. The north features mountains and cooler highlands, the central region has sandy beaches and cultural towns, and the south is tropical and dominated by the Mekong Delta.
Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) near Hanoi and Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City are the main entry points. Domestic flights, trains, and buses make it easy to explore. Top experiences include cruising Ha Long Bay, wandering the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, exploring the Cu Chi tunnels, and enjoying street food tours in Hanoi or Saigon. Motorbikes are a popular way to get around, though traffic can be chaotic.
UK travellers can enter Vietnam visa-free for up to 45 days. Longer stays require an e-visa or visa-on-arrival. The British Embassy is in Hanoi, with a Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City. Entry requirements sometimes change, so it’s best to check ahead before travelling.
The Vietnamese dong (VND) is the local currency. ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in hotels and larger restaurants. Cash is still preferred for smaller shops, cafés, and markets. Bargaining is common in markets, though less so in fixed-price stores.
Vietnam has decent healthcare in big cities, with private hospitals in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City offering better standards. Rural areas have more basic facilities. Travel insurance with medical evacuation cover is strongly advised. Dengue fever is present, so mosquito protection is important. Tap water is not safe to drink — bottled water is the norm. Road safety is another concern, with busy streets and motorbikes everywhere.
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