Touring Vietnam alone for 1 month: native household keep, volunteering, and extra!

I did a solo journey to Vietnam and it was one of many friendliest nations I’ve been to! On this publish, I’ll share with you my Vietnam solo journey experiences together with security suggestions and every thing it is advisable find out about this nation.

📬 Hi there Trisha! I love you for touring the world solo. I’ve been hooked along with your solo journey tales. It actually conjures up me to go by myself! As Australia is already opening up for worldwide journey, I want to do my Vietnam solo journey (lastly!) since I’ve been locked out for a 12 months. I really want some suggestions as I do know you already traveled to Vietnam alone so much. Are you able to additionally join me along with your native host household? Thanks for all of your assist and help. I admire you and I want you all of the success! I’d flip to you extra for suggestions and recommendation so please bear with me.

-Ginette Sherman, Australia

Hello Ginette!

In fact you possibly can all the time e-mail me you probably have questions on Vietnam journey! The aim of this weblog is to reply reader questions. 

The truth is, I don’t actually make posts until somebody sends me an e-mail! Oh my, Vietnam… what fond recollections I’ve of this nation. This is without doubt one of the nations I really feel most secure in touring alone and I can see that isn’t your fear.

I’ll attempt my finest that can assist you and offer you some private insights about touring to Vietnam alone however I assure you that you’ll freaking get pleasure from it!

Good luck and let me know the way it goes!

Xx,
Trisha

🇻🇳 Vietnam solo journey at a look

Capital: Hanoi

Forex: The forex in Vietnam known as the Vietnamese dong (VND). $1 USD = 23,221 VND.

Energy plug: Vietnam makes use of the kinds C (two spherical pins), A (two flat parallel pins), and F (two spherical clips + two earth clips

Visa: Individuals, Canadians, Australians, British, and most European residents are issued a visa on arrival in Vietnam which is legitimate for 30 days. You may fill out this kind and pay $25 in your visa. Should you want extra days in Vietnam, can apply upon arrival in Vietnam.

Language: The language in Vietnam is Vietnamese. Many individuals nonetheless don’t communicate English however the service business can talk in English.

Transportation: Vietnam makes use of motorbikes as a mode of transport however going across the nation is tremendous straightforward. Vietnam has lots of bus beds that may take you across the nation. Flights throughout the nation are additionally inexpensive however because it’s not that huge, you possibly can journey by land safely and simply. 

Wifi/Web in Vietnam: Web is difficult in provinces however within the huge cities, many have fiber-optic connections. 

Vietnam sim card: There are 4 cellular suppliers in Vietnam. I exploit Viettel as a result of it has higher protection. A 30GB plan for one month with Viettel prices $13 and the bottom 5GB plan is $5. 

Steered journey period: You may simply have a very good journey to Vietnam for two weeks. On this timeframe, it is possible for you to to see all of the vital spots and landmarks which may also be mentioned on this publish.

💃🏽 Vietnam solo journey private expertise

My first Vietnam solo journey expertise was in 2011, at a time the place ladies like me had been discouraged to journey on their very own. I used to be 23 years outdated and fortunately, I had supportive dad and mom. 

Having an Asian background, my mother stated, “it’s simply Vietnam. It’s secure.” She all the time had this impression that if it’s Asia, then I gained’t be harmed. Which, statistically, may be very true.

In a while, you possibly can browse this weblog on how I instructed my mother I’d be touring on my own to South America, to the Center East, to Europe (which I did even when she stated no).

It’s simply humorous that my Asian mother has her personal beliefs in solo feminine journey security and for her, Asia is all the time good. It doesn’t even wanted to be mentioned.

So with the sturdy help of my household, I went to Vietnam (not at their expense, FYI). Since I used to be touring Vietnam on a funds, I deliberate my solo journey nicely. 

First, I stated I’ll stick with native households so I can learn to eat, communicate, and prepare dinner like them. To be sincere with you, my native household keep adventures solely began once I was discovering methods on find out how to discover free lodging whereas touring.

With time, I noticed that it wasn’t my function anymore. It actually is a good expertise to dwell with locals and never all of us have the chance to do this.

I relentlessly search for host households overseas at any time when I’m touring. I imagine this is without doubt one of the biggest issues I’ve seen and performed in my life. I need to proceed doing it.

Attending to my host household in Hanoi was slightly demanding because it was 1.5 hours drive to get to their home. My host brother additionally spoke damaged English so the directions weren’t very clear.

Effectively, I simply know that I used to be going to Huong Non, a standard village northwest of Hanoi. At the very least I had that on the maps in case I don’t discover the home.

He gave me a pin on Google maps the place I ought to go down. After I arrived that location, it was so darkish and it was only a road with no identify.

I didn’t watch for him for greater than 10 minutes, thank God. He was there to select me up and instantly introduced me to the home on his bike.

So that is additionally the factor it’s important to take into account when touring solo in Vietnam – they love motorbikes. Everybody has it. I couldn’t think about myself getting on that bike with a freaking baggage so thank God I had a very good and light-weight backpack.

I stayed with them for two weeks and you may learn my story about it in my tales part. That is truly my favourite homestay as a result of this was the one nation the place I used to be challenged with language boundaries.

After that household keep, I continued my journey and labored in hostels, had some loopy events, and naturally, noticed the very best of Vietnam by myself.

I discovered myself all the time going again as I grew to become snug touring Vietnam solo. It is without doubt one of the locations I’ll all the time return to and I hope you get to expertise Vietnam the best way that I did.

🙋🏻 Is Vietnam good for a solo journey?

ABSOLUTELY! Vietnam solo journey is simple and inexpensive, which makes it good for a solo journey, particularly for first-timers! It’s straightforward to attach with locals and fellow vacationers as it’s recognized for its pleasant and welcoming folks.

The associated fee-effectiveness of touring in Vietnam is one other vital profit, because the nation gives inexpensive lodging, meals, and transportation choices, permitting for an extended, extra immersive expertise.

Vietnam is secure

Street-wise, people-wise, navigation-wise: you don’t have to fret about any of this in Vietnam. You may journey Vietnam hassle-free.

In fact, there are nonetheless circumstances of theft in Vietnam however very minimal. After I was touring Vietnam solo, I by no means actually needed to be paranoid about my stuff however I by no means let my guard down.

Total, I didn’t have the expertise of somebody robbing me. I even left my backpack one time in a restaurant (with my digital camera!) and once I returned it was nonetheless there. 

Simply don’t contain your self in sketchy actions like shopping for medication. Regardless of being in Latin America for a very long time now, I really feel like Asia is crazier with the drug factor as some nations have shoot-to-kill orders if caught with medication. 

However extra on that later. Total, THERE IS NOTHING TO WORRY ABOUT on the subject of Vietnam solo journey. I promise you’ll have a very good time!

Vietnam’s terrain is solo traveler-friendly

Vietnam’s backpacking route is similar. It is vitally strategic and tremendous organized so that you don’t should be worrying about your route.

Vietnam is a part of the banana pancake path, a well-known Southeast Asia backpacking route. Regardless of the place you go, there shall be backpackers and solo vacationers round.

With this, I even acquired an opportunity to do ride-sharing or tour journeys with folks I met in hostels! You’ll arrive Vietnam by your self however if you find yourself already there, you’ll by no means be alone!

Typically, I even needed to shut my dorm curtains simply to keep away from different backpackers inviting me to exit to social gathering! You’d be shocked what number of alone time you’ll crave whereas touring Vietnam solo. 

The Vietnamese persons are tremendous pleasant and accommodating

The Vietnamese persons are good folks, particularly to women who’re on their very own. I’ve obtained many kindness from strangers in Vietnam. 

What I additionally seen is that the Vietnamese persons are very sincere folks. In fact, there are nonetheless dangerous folks on the market however for almost all of my Vietnam solo journey, I used to be all the time handled nicely.

There shall be lots of language boundaries however this by no means stopped them from serving to vacationers. They struggle their finest to assist with hand indicators even when typically, it will get so irritating that you just don’t perceive one another!

Vietnam is affordable

I spent about $300 USD a month in my Vietnam solo journey however notice that I used to be staying with host households and volunteering on a regular basis.

This $300 USD funds was tremendous snug. I paid for my very own excursions, took evening busses, and ate out so much. Even when you’re going to pay in your personal lodging, I nonetheless really feel such as you gained’t go over $500 USD a month.

🚫 Is Vietnam secure for solo feminine vacationers?

ABSOLUTELY! I all the time advocate Vietnam to solo vacationers whether or not be it male of feminine. Vietnam is an efficient coaching floor in your first-time solo journey!

The Vietnamese persons are naturally welcoming and really pleasant even when they don’t communicate English. You’ll have a trouble-free solo journey to Vietnam as you don’t actually should be extraordinarily vigilant and paranoid about security.

Vietnam is definitely one of many nations the place I felt taken care of as a feminine. Individuals are all the time keen to assist and since they’re a touristy nation, you don’t get lots of consideration for being a foreigner (in comparison with India or Egypt).

Certain, they’re nonetheless amazed that foreigners go to their nation however they gained’t swarm you and even have a look at you endlessly. Additionally please notice that my ethnicity is Asian so I’m talking from private expertise.

You may need a distinct expertise as a white particular person however I’d love to listen to your individual tales! 

💲 How a lot does a solo journey to Vietnam price?

Tremendous low cost! Since I stayed with native households and volunteered, I virtually didn’t pay for lodging for 3 months! There have been even occasions once I handled myself to luxurious inns (which is lower than $100 USD in Vietnam).

The forex in Vietnam known as the Vietnamese dong (VND). US$1 = 23,221 VND. Because of this conversion, you will discover your self holding so many 1000’s of payments whereas touring Vietnam however ultimately, the worth of every notice is actually low. 

In fact, as solo vacationers, the very best factor to don’t solely to save lots of on money however to additionally meet different folks is to remain in hostels. Hostels in Vietnam are tremendous low cost and first rate. That is the place you’ll discover all of the motion!

Vietnam can also be recognized for his or her wonderful and low cost road meals. You may eat for lower than a greenback in Vietnam however be aware about consuming road meals particularly you probably have a delicate abdomen.

As for excursions, I don’t keep in mind being on one for greater than $100 USD. Many of the actions right here, you possibly can truly do by your self with out hiring a information!

💃🏽 Touring solo for the first-time? Be part of my group journeys this 12 months and learn to be a professional solo traveler! We can have enjoyable, I promise you! And on prime of that, you’ll study so much about navigating the world solo! ✨

✈️ Planning your Vietnam solo journey

Greatest time to go to Vietnam

July and August are busy months in Vietnam as that is the excessive season. Costs are greater than ordinary. The climate is scorching and humid with occasional rain showers.

Should you’re solely going to Hanoi and HCMC, I like to recommend visiting these locations throughout December – March: the proper excuse to flee winter in Europe and North America! Hanoi shall be chilly right now for certain however HCMC shall be sunny and never too scorching!

The off-season in Vietnam is from April to June and September to November. Throughout these months, all areas of Vietnam have good climate, and costs are cheaper.

Under is a month-to-month information on what to anticipate in Vietnam every month:

Vietnam visa necessities and processes

Earlier than embarking in your Vietnam solo journey, it’s essential to grasp and adjust to Vietnam’s visa necessities. Most vacationers want a visa to enter Vietnam, and the method varies based mostly in your nationality.

The Vietnamese authorities gives an e-Visa choice for U.S. residents. That is an digital visa that may be utilized for on-line. The e-Visa is legitimate for a single entry with a most keep of 30 days.

Individuals may receive a Visa on Arrival. Nevertheless, this requires acquiring a pre-approval letter earlier than touring. Upon arrival in Vietnam, you current this letter, together with a passport picture and the visa stamping payment, to get your visa stamped into your passport.

Alternatively, you possibly can apply for a visa by way of a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in the US earlier than your journey. This course of might permit for several types of visas, reminiscent of a number of entry visas or visas with an extended keep than the e-Visa.

The next nations, residents, and nationalities can enter Vietnam visa-free:

• Brunei (14 days)
• Cambodia (30 days)
• Indonesia (30 days)
• Laos (30 days)
• Japan (15 days)
• Malaysia (30 days)
• Myanmar (14 days)
• The Philippines (21 days)
• Singapore (30 days)
• South Korea (15 days)
• Thailand (30 days)
• European Residents from Belarus, Denmark, Italy, Finland, France, Germany, Norway, Russia, Spain, Sweden, and The UK are visa-free in Vietnam for 15 days

Flights to Vietnam

The three major Worldwide Airports in Vietnam are Noi Ban Worldwide Airport (Hanoi), Tan Son Nhat Worldwide Airport (Ho Chi Minh Metropolis), and Da Nang Worldwide Airport (DAD).

Under are some prompt flight routes to Hanoi (the capital of Vietnam):

To avoid wasting time and see extra locations, you can even add the layover as a 1-week vacation spot earlier than your journey to Vietnam. Thailand and Cambodia are good locations so as to add to this itinerary!

What to pack for Vietnam

Earlier than my Vietnam solo journey, I by no means knew that there are some components of the nation that’s extraordinarily chilly. I all the time considered Vietnam as a tropical nation (as we see on Instagram) however once I went to the north, I suffered so much with the chilly! 

Good factor there have been many low cost buying locations in Hanoi the place I used to be in a position to purchase first rate coats and winter clothes. In fact, all the time carry summer time garments like bikinis, shorts, and flip flops.

However probably the most important that we all the time overlook are mountain climbing boots and light-weight waterproof jacket. I really feel like that is the important and all the remainder, you possibly can resolve relying when you’ll go to.

Additionally be sure that to pack gentle and use a backpack when touring to Vietnam. Will probably be very arduous to roll your baggage in Vietnam or carry them – this isn’t a baggage nation!

Listed below are the necessities to pack in your solo Vietnam journey:

• Light-weight and breathable clothes, adaptable for each scorching and humid circumstances.
• A raincoat or umbrella, particularly if touring in the course of the monsoon season.
• Comfy strolling footwear, in addition to sandals or flip-flops.
• Solar safety, together with sunscreen, sun shades, and a hat.
• Mosquito repellent and fundamental toiletries.
• An influence adapter and charger for digital gadgets.
• A sturdy backpack or daypack for day journeys and excursions.
• Cultural and respectful apparel for visiting temples and non secular websites.
• A digital camera or smartphone to seize your experiences.

🚌 Getting round Vietnam

Vietnam’s main cities, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh Metropolis, are served by worldwide airports which are well-connected to town facilities. Navigating these airports is easy, with English indicators and data counters.

For native transit, taxis are available and comparatively inexpensive. Nevertheless, it’s advisable to make use of respected taxi corporations or app-based providers like Seize to keep away from overcharging.

In cities, you can even discover varied bus providers, that are a cheap method to journey, although they could be much less handy for these unfamiliar with the routes.

Busses in Vietnam

That is my most well-liked manner of touring in Vietnam because it’s low cost and comfy. Should you discuss with the image under, you will note how small it’s so positively take into account this in case you are a tall particular person. It additionally saves money and time since these bus beds depart at evening – you don’t should pay for the lodge!

Most bus portals in Vietnam are in Vietnamese and it will get complicated if you use the “translate” characteristic so I all the time simply use BudBud as a dependable English web site for busses in Vietnam.

Native buses are low cost and canopy in depth routes. Have small change useful for fares and pay attention to pickpockets in crowded buses.

Trains in Vietnam

Vietnam has an environment friendly rail system and you may select this mode of transport in the event you don’t need to hop on an evening bus. Their trains have courses and still have sleeping cabins. The commonest route is, after all, Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi.

This route is 32 hours lengthy and solely prices US$36 (in comparison with a 2-hour flight for US$80). That is perfect if you wish to see the entire nation however in the event you’re on a set journey schedule, flights inside Vietnam are actually low cost.

The practice community in Vietnam is a scenic method to journey, particularly the route alongside the coast. Guide your tickets upfront, particularly for in a single day journeys.

Home flights in Vietnam

For US$80 (one-way fare), you possibly can simply fly inside Vietnam. The native airways that function in Vietnam are Vietnam Airways, VietJet Air, and Jetstar.

For lengthy distances, take into account home flights as they’re time-efficient and more and more inexpensive. Flying is right in the event you don’t have lots of time to journey in Vietnam.

Renting a automobile in Vietnam

In my expertise driving in Vietnam, it was type of troublesome to go round with out the language abilities. I had to make use of signal language to ask for instructions and you could end up in areas the place there is no such thing as a telephone protection. You may lease a automobile in Vietnam at any main airport and metropolis.

Renting motorbikes in Vietnam

You may lease motorbikes in each metropolis in Vietnam as that is probably the most utilized by the locals – everybody has a bike! Driving a bike in Vietnam as you see in most footage, seems to be like a loopy rodeo however my trick is to only comply with the folks in entrance of me (or preserve near them).

The roads are motorbike-friendly however you could get confused and terrified with the roundabouts – this all the time confuses me! For many who don’t need to drive a bike, you possibly can name a motorcycle through the app known as Seize (which is like an Uber for motorbikes). 

🛏️ Lodging choices for solo vacationers

A pleasant lodge for two in Ho Chi Minh begins at $25 USD which is definitely a superior double room with breakfast. Since Vietnam simply opened, you will note many tremendous low costs of inns (beneath $10 USD).

Hostels and Funds Stays in Vietnam

Vietnam gives a variety of hostels and funds lodging, significantly in vacationer hotspots. These choices are excellent for solo vacationers wanting to economize and meet fellow vacationers.

Many hostels in Vietnam present not only a mattress but additionally a social ambiance, with communal areas and arranged actions. Services often embody free Wi-Fi, lockers for valuables, and sometimes a fundamental breakfast.

Boutique Accommodations and Native Homestays in Vietnam

For these searching for a extra distinctive or culturally immersive expertise, boutique inns and native homestays are glorious choices. Boutique inns in Vietnam typically mix conventional aesthetics with fashionable comforts, offering a extra intimate and customized expertise than bigger lodge chains.

Homestays, alternatively, supply a glimpse into the every day lifetime of Vietnamese households. They’ll vary from rural farmhouses to metropolis dwellings, giving vacationers an opportunity to expertise native customs, delicacies, and hospitality.

These choices are typically inexpensive and may be present in most components of Vietnam, from city areas to distant villages. I may put you in contact with my host household in Hanoi!

Security Ideas for Selecting Your Lodging

• Use lockers or safes offered by the lodging to safe your valuables, together with passports and electronics.
• Maintain household or pals knowledgeable about your lodging particulars and journey itinerary.
• Be cautious of unsolicited gives or overly pleasant strangers inviting you to their houses or companies.
• Maintain the handle and get in touch with particulars of your lodging simply accessible. Additionally, know the situation of the closest embassy or consulate and native emergency providers.
• If one thing feels off about a spot or scenario, belief your instincts and discover a safer surroundings.

🍜 Meals in Vietnam

Meals is affordable in Vietnam. The standard manner of experiencing Vietnam by way of meals is thru road meals (which is fit for human consumption, btw). Noodles and conventional Vietnamese road meals are lower than a greenback.

Vietnam Road Meals Should-Tries

Vietnamese road meals is famend for its flavors, range, and accessibility. A culinary exploration in Vietnam isn’t full with out delving into its road meals tradition. Should-try dishes embody:

• Pho: A traditional Vietnamese noodle soup, sometimes with beef (pho bo) or rooster (pho ga).
• Banh Mi: A fusion of French and Vietnamese delicacies, this sandwich is made with a baguette full of quite a lot of meats, greens, and condiments.
• Goi Cuon: Contemporary spring rolls filled with greens, coriander, minced pork, shrimp, and rice vermicelli.
• Banh Xeo: A crispy crepe bulging with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts, plus the contemporary greens and the fishy tang of nuoc cham (fermented fish sauce).
• Cà Phê Sữa Đá: Vietnamese iced espresso with candy condensed milk, a must-try for espresso lovers.

Exploring native markets and road meals stalls gives an genuine style of Vietnamese delicacies and an opportunity to work together with locals.

Vegetarian and Vegan Meals in Vietnam

Vietnam can also be pleasant for vegetarians and vegans, with many dishes which are both naturally meat-free or may be tailored. Search for dishes like:

• Pho Chay: The vegetarian model of the traditional pho.
• Banh Mi Chay: Vegetarian banh mi with tofu or seitan as an alternative of meat.
• Buddhist Temple Meals: Typically vegetarian, discovered close to Buddhist temples and in some eating places.
• Tofu and Mushroom Dishes: Frequent in Vietnamese delicacies, typically flavored with lemongrass, chili, and different native herbs.

Many eating places now cater particularly to vegetarian and vegan diets, so don’t hesitate to ask for suggestions or search for ‘chay’ (vegetarian) indicators.

Meals Security Ideas for Solo Vacationers

Whereas Vietnamese delicacies is scrumptious, meals security is essential, particularly for solo vacationers:

• Select busy stalls: Eat the place the locals eat. A busy stall is an efficient signal of contemporary, secure meals.
• Watch the Meals Being Cooked: It’s finest when your meals is cooked in entrance of you.
• Be Cautious with Uncooked Meals: Watch out with uncooked fruit and veggies which you could’t peel or haven’t seen washed in clear water.
• Keep Hydrated with Bottled Water: Follow bottled water and keep away from ice until you’re certain it’s comprised of purified water.

📍Prime locations for Vietnam journey

If it’s your first-time to journey to Vietnam alone, under are a number of the finest locations to go to in Vietnam. It additionally relies upon what number of days/weeks/months you need to journey to Vietnam.

Vietnam is a rustic you possibly can simply navigate from north to south (or vice-versa). Under are a number of the locations I like to recommend for first-timers:

Historic Websites and Cultural Landmarks

Vietnam’s wealthy historical past and tradition are mirrored in its quite a few historic websites and landmarks. Key locations embody:

• Hue: As soon as the imperial capital, dwelling to the historic Citadel, royal tombs, and historic pagodas.
• Hoi An: A UNESCO World Heritage Web site recognized for its well-preserved Historic City with distinctive structure influenced by Chinese language, Japanese, and French kinds.
• My Son Sanctuary: An historic Hindu temple advanced close to Hoi An, reflecting the Champa Kingdom’s historical past.
• Struggle Remnants Museum and Cu Chi Tunnels in Ho Chi Minh Metropolis: Providing insights into the Vietnam Struggle.
• The Temple of Literature in Hanoi: Devoted to Confucius, this temple symbolizes Vietnam’s instructional and literary historical past.

These websites present a deep understanding of Vietnam’s previous and current, making them must-visit areas for historical past lovers.

Pure Wonders and Out of doors Adventures

For many who love nature and journey, Vietnam gives an array of beautiful landscapes and actions:

• Ha Lengthy Bay: Recognized for its emerald waters and 1000’s of towering limestone islands topped with rainforests.
• Sapa: Well-known for its terraced rice fields, ethnic minority communities, and trekking routes.
• Phong Nha-Ke Bang Nationwide Park: Residence to spectacular limestone karsts and the world’s largest caves.
• Ninh Binh: Also known as “Ha Lengthy Bay on land” with its dramatic panorama of rivers, limestone cliffs, and caves.
• Da Lat: Recognized for its cool local weather, French colonial structure, and vibrant flower gardens. It’s additionally a haven for outside actions like mountain biking, mountain climbing, and canyoning.

Metropolis Guides: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh Metropolis, and Past

Solo vacationers can immerse themselves within the bustling city lifetime of Vietnam’s main cities, every providing distinctive experiences:

• Hanoi: The capital metropolis is thought for its centuries-old structure and a wealthy tradition with Southeast Asian, Chinese language, and French influences. Key sights embody the Previous Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. The town’s road meals scene can also be a spotlight.
• Ho Chi Minh Metropolis: Previously generally known as Saigon, this metropolis is the monetary and financial hub of Vietnam. It’s recognized for its French colonial landmarks, together with Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Nineteenth-century Central Publish Workplace. The bustling Ben Thanh Market and the colourful nightlife in District 1 are to not be missed.
• Da Nang: This coastal metropolis serves as a gateway to the central heritage highway, with quick access to Hoi An, Hue, and My Son. It’s recognized for its sandy seashores and historical past as a French colonial port.
• Can Tho: For a style of the Mekong Delta, Can Tho gives floating markets, riverside landscapes, and a slower tempo of life.

✨ Vietnam journey suggestions

Perceive Vietnamese tradition

Vietnam’s tradition is deeply rooted in Confucianism, which emphasizes morals, familial respect, and societal order. Understanding these cultural values can significantly improve your interplay with locals and your total expertise.

Household is central in Vietnamese society, and elders are handled with nice respect. The idea of ‘face’ can also be vital, the place sustaining each private and communal dignity is very valued. Public shows of affection are typically extra conservative than in lots of Western cultures.

Do’s and Don’ts in Vietnam

Adhering to native customs and etiquette is essential in Vietnam, and listed here are some key factors to contemplate:

• ✅ Greet folks with a smile and a nod. Handshakes are widespread, often initiated by the elder or greater standing particular person.
• ✅ Take away footwear when getting into somebody’s dwelling and even some companies and non secular websites.
• ✅ Use each fingers when giving or receiving one thing, particularly to somebody older or of upper standing.
• ✅ Gown modestly, significantly when visiting temples and non secular websites.
• ✅ Be affected person, well mannered, and present humility – that is significantly admired in Vietnamese tradition.
• ❌ Keep away from public shows of anger or frustration; it’s seen as shedding face.
• ❌ Don’t contact somebody’s head, because it’s thought of probably the most sacred a part of the physique.
• ❌ Chorus from pointing your toes instantly at folks or non secular objects, as toes are thought of the bottom a part of the physique.
• ❌ Keep away from political discussions associated to delicate historic occasions, significantly the Vietnam Struggle.

Speaking with Locals

Vietnamese persons are typically very pleasant and hospitable to foreigners. Whereas English proficiency varies, particularly outdoors the principle cities, locals admire any effort to talk just a few phrases in Vietnamese.

Easy phrases like “Xin chào” (hi there) and “Cảm ơn” (thanks) can go a great distance. Non-verbal communication, reminiscent of smiling and nodding, additionally performs a big position in on a regular basis interactions. When conversing, be aware of your tone and physique language to make sure it’s respectful and thoughtful.

One of many joys of Vietnam solo journey is the chance to fulfill like-minded people from around the globe. Listed below are some methods to community with fellow solo vacationers:

Keep in Social Lodging

Go for hostels or guesthouses recognized for his or her communal environments. Many set up social occasions the place you possibly can meet different vacationers.

A few of you will not be snug with shared rooms and I get it. As I grew older, I noticed that I’m well past dorm rooms. Most hostels in Vietnam have personal rooms so you possibly can nonetheless socialize with different vacationers with out sharing a room (and the lavatory!).

Be part of Group Excursions or Actions

I met so many individuals from collaborating in group excursions in Vietnam, particularly meals. You’d be shocked what number of pals you’ll make and also you’ll in all probability find yourself doing different actions with them.

Go to common traveler spots

Sure cafes, bars, or landmarks are recognized hangouts for solo vacationers. In Ho Chi Minh Metropolis, I’d advocate The Deck Saigon, Carmen, Chill Sky Bar, Above, and The Thi Bar. These are all hip spots frequented by a mixture of expats, locals, and vacationers.

Bui Vien Road is lined with bars, cafes, hostels, and eating places. It’s a bustling space the place you possibly can see and meet different solo vacationers. It’s sometimes called “backpacker district” with a improbable nightlife and road meals.

Attend Language Change Meetups in Vietnam

These occasions should not solely nice for studying the native language but additionally for assembly different vacationers and locals. Listed below are some frequent language change meet-ups in Ho Chi Minh Metropolis:

Take part in Native Occasions and Actions

Participating in native occasions and actions can improve your journey expertise and permit you to meet locals and different vacationers:

Get journey insurance coverage

For one month in Vietnam, I solely paid $40 USD for journey insurance coverage By no means journey to Vietnam with out insurance coverage as you don’t know what can occur.

Volunteer

Among the finest experiences you possibly can have in Vietnam (and likewise what’s going to prevent some huge cash) is to volunteer. I’ve volunteered in lots of nations and have gained many various experiences due to this!

I exploit Worldpackers to search out volunteer jobs in Vietnam. You may as well use my low cost code PSIMONMYWAY10 to get $10 USD off in your one-year membership!

Get a world checking account

My financial institution accounts within the US and Europe all the time work nicely when I’m touring however I all the time lose cash from conversion charges.

I’ve signed up with Sensible, an Worldwide checking account that has higher conversion charges. You may even take your cash out in Vietnamese dong with excessive conversions!

Road meals in Vietnam

Know your self. Road meals in Vietnam is without doubt one of the finest on the earth. The truth is, there are numerous Michelin-star road meals carts right here which are price attempting!

However you probably have a delicate abdomen, don’t do it. I by no means acquired meals poisoning in Vietnam however since I journey typically, I’m tremendous immune with road meals.

Take into account your supply

Solely take recommendation about Vietnam solo journey from individuals who have already been. Certain, you possibly can learn the information however it’s nonetheless finest to achieve insights from folks you realize who’ve truly traveled to Vietnam.

For me, private experiences are nonetheless my foundation in deciding to journey solo to a rustic. Fortunately, I Couchsurfed for a few years in my life and have gained a worldwide chain of contacts whom I can depend on!