important suggestions from my 1 month journey

I did a solo journey to Vietnam and it was one of many friendliest international locations I’ve been to! On this put up, I’ll share with you my Vietnam solo journey experiences together with security suggestions and all the things you must learn about this nation.

📬 Hiya Trisha! I love you for touring the world solo. I’ve been hooked together with your solo journey tales. It actually conjures up me to go alone! As Australia is already opening up for worldwide journey, I wish 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 rather a lot. Are you able to additionally join me together with your native host household? Thanks for all of your assist and help. I respect you and I want you all of the success! I would flip to you extra for suggestions and recommendation so please bear with me.

-Ginette Sherman, Australia

Hello Ginette!

In fact you’ll be able to at all times e-mail me when you’ve got questions on Vietnam journey! The aim of this weblog is to reply reader questions. 

In actual fact, I don’t actually make posts except somebody sends me an e-mail! Oh my, Vietnam… what fond recollections I’ve of this nation. This is likely one of the international locations I really feel most secure in touring alone and I can see that isn’t your fear.

I’ll strive my finest that will help 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 foreign money in Vietnam is known as the Vietnamese dong (VND). $1 USD = 23,221 VND.

Energy plug: Vietnam makes use of the categories 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 way and pay $25 to your visa. If you happen to 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 simple. Vietnam has quite a lot of bus beds that may take you across the nation. Flights inside the nation are additionally inexpensive however because it’s not that huge, you’ll be able to 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 cell suppliers in Vietnam. I take advantage of 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. 

Prompt journey period: You may simply have an excellent 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 put up.

💃🏽 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 mother and father. 

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

In a while, you’ll be able to 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 at all times good. It doesn’t even wanted to be mentioned.

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

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

With time, I spotted that it wasn’t my goal anymore. It actually is a good expertise to stay 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 consider this is likely one of the best issues I’ve seen and accomplished in my life. I wish to proceed doing it.

Attending to my host household in Hanoi was somewhat tense 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.

Nicely, I simply know that I used to be going to Huong Non, a conventional 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. Once I arrived that location, it was so darkish and it was only a avenue with no identify.

I didn’t look ahead to 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 you must take into account when touring solo in Vietnam – they love motorbikes. Everybody has it. I couldn’t think about myself getting on that motorcycle with a freaking baggage so thank God I had an excellent and lightweight backpack.

I stayed with them for two weeks and you may learn my story about it in my tales part. That is really 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 perfect of Vietnam alone.

I discovered myself at all times going again as I turned comfy touring Vietnam solo. It is likely one of the locations I’ll at all times return to and I hope you get to expertise Vietnam the way in which that I did.

🙋🏻 Is Vietnam good for a solo journey?

ABSOLUTELY! Vietnam solo journey is straightforward and inexpensive, which makes it good for a solo journey, particularly for first-timers! It’s simple 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 important 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 instances of theft in Vietnam however very minimal. Once 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 after 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 international locations have shoot-to-kill orders if caught with medication. 

However extra on that later. Total, THERE IS NOTHING TO WORRY ABOUT with regards to Vietnam solo journey. I promise you’ll have an excellent time!

Vietnam’s terrain is solo traveler-friendly

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

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

With this, I even received an opportunity to do ride-sharing or tour journeys with folks I met in hostels! You’ll arrive Vietnam by your self however when you’re 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 occasion! You’d be shocked what number of alone time you’ll crave whereas touring Vietnam solo. 

The Vietnamese individuals are tremendous pleasant and accommodating

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

What I additionally seen is that the Vietnamese individuals are very sincere folks. In fact, there are nonetheless unhealthy folks on the market however for almost all of my Vietnam solo journey, I used to be at all times handled effectively.

There will likely be quite a lot of language boundaries however this by no means stopped them from serving to vacationers. They fight 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 reasonable

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 finances was tremendous comfy. I paid for my very own excursions, took night time busses, and ate out rather a lot. Even when you will pay to your personal lodging, I nonetheless really feel such as you received’t go over $500 USD a month.

🚫 Is Vietnam secure for solo feminine vacationers?

ABSOLUTELY! I at all times suggest Vietnam to solo vacationers whether or not be it male of feminine. Vietnam is an effective coaching floor to your first-time solo journey!

The Vietnamese individuals 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 must be extraordinarily vigilant and paranoid about security.

Vietnam is definitely one of many international locations the place I felt taken care of as a feminine. Persons are at all times prepared to assist and since they’re a touristy nation, you don’t get quite a lot of consideration for being a foreigner (in comparison with India or Egypt).

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

You might 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 value?

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 instances after I handled myself to luxurious inns (which is lower than $100 USD in Vietnam).

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

In fact, as solo vacationers, the perfect factor to don’t solely to avoid wasting 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 be recognized for his or her wonderful and low cost avenue meals. You may eat for lower than a greenback in Vietnam however be aware about consuming avenue meals particularly when you’ve got a delicate abdomen.

As for excursions, I don’t bear in mind being on one for greater than $100 USD. A lot of the actions right here, you’ll be able to really 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 may have enjoyable, I promise you! And on prime of that, you’ll be taught rather a lot 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 increased than regular. The climate is sizzling and humid with occasional rain showers.

If you happen to’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 will likely be chilly presently for positive however HCMC will likely be sunny and never too sizzling!

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 know 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 also can get hold of a Visa on Arrival. Nonetheless, this requires acquiring a pre-approval letter earlier than touring. Upon arrival in Vietnam, you current this letter, together with a passport photograph and the visa stamping charge, to get your visa stamped into your passport.

Alternatively, you’ll be able to apply for a visa by means of a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in america earlier than your journey. This course of might enable for various kinds of visas, comparable to a number of entry visas or visas with an extended keep than the e-Visa.

The next international locations, 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 fundamental 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 save lots of time and see extra locations, you may also 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 at all times considered Vietnam as a tropical nation (as we see on Instagram) however after I went to the north, I suffered rather a lot with the chilly! 

Good factor there have been many low cost purchasing locations in Hanoi the place I used to be capable of purchase first rate coats and winter clothes. In fact, at all times deliver summer time garments like bikinis, shorts, and flip flops.

However essentially the most important that we at all times overlook are climbing boots and light-weight waterproof jacket. I really feel like that is the important and all the remaining, you’ll be able to determine relying when you’ll go to.

Additionally ensure to pack mild and use a backpack when touring to Vietnam. It will likely be very exhausting to roll your baggage in Vietnam or carry them – this isn’t a baggage nation!

Listed here are the necessities to pack to your solo Vietnam journey:

• Light-weight and breathable clothes, adaptable for each sizzling and humid circumstances.
• A raincoat or umbrella, particularly if touring through 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 primary toiletries.
• An influence adapter and charger for digital units.
• 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 can be well-connected to the town facilities. Navigating these airports is easy, with English indicators and data counters.

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

In cities, you may also discover varied bus companies, that are a cheap strategy to journey, although they might be much less handy for these unfamiliar with the routes.

Busses in Vietnam

That is my most well-liked method of touring in Vietnam because it’s low cost and comfy. If you happen to check with the image beneath, you will notice how small it’s so undoubtedly take into account this in case you are a tall particular person. It additionally saves money and time since these bus beds go away at night time – you don’t must pay for the resort!

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

Native buses are low cost and canopy intensive 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 if you happen to don’t wish to hop on an evening bus. Their trains have courses and still have sleeping cabins. The most typical 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 very best if you wish to see the entire nation however if you happen to’re on a set journey schedule, flights inside Vietnam are actually low cost.

The prepare community in Vietnam is a scenic strategy to journey, particularly the route alongside the coast. Ebook your tickets upfront, particularly for in a single day journeys.

Home flights in Vietnam

For US$80 (one-way fare), you’ll be able to 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 if you happen to don’t have quite a lot of time to journey in Vietnam.

Renting a automotive in Vietnam

In my expertise driving in Vietnam, it was type of tough to go round with out the language abilities. I had to make use of signal language to ask for instructions and it’s possible you’ll end up in areas the place there isn’t a cellphone protection. You may lease a automotive in Vietnam at any main airport and metropolis.

Renting motorbikes in Vietnam

You may lease motorbikes in each metropolis in Vietnam as that is essentially the most utilized by the locals – everybody has a motorcycle! Driving a motorcycle in Vietnam as you see in most photos, appears to be like like a loopy rodeo however my trick is to only observe the folks in entrance of me (or maintain near them).

The roads are motorbike-friendly however it’s possible you’ll get confused and terrified with the roundabouts – this at all times confuses me! For individuals who don’t wish to drive a motorcycle, you’ll be able to name a motorcycle by way of the app known as Seize (which is like an Uber for motorbikes). 

🛏️ Lodging choices for solo vacationers

A pleasant resort 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 notice many tremendous low costs of inns (beneath $10 USD).

Hostels and Funds Stays in Vietnam

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

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

Boutique Accommodations and Native Homestays in Vietnam

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

Homestays, then again, supply a glimpse into the day by 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 also can put you in contact with my host household in Hanoi!

Security Suggestions for Selecting Your Lodging

• Use lockers or safes supplied by the lodging to safe your valuables, together with passports and electronics.
• Hold household or buddies knowledgeable about your lodging particulars and journey itinerary.
• Be cautious of unsolicited gives or overly pleasant strangers inviting you to their properties or companies.
• Hold the deal with and speak to particulars of your lodging simply accessible. Additionally, know the placement of the closest embassy or consulate and native emergency companies.
• If one thing feels off about a spot or state of affairs, belief your instincts and discover a safer setting.

🍜 Meals in Vietnam

Meals is reasonable in Vietnam. The standard method of experiencing Vietnam by means of meals is thru avenue meals (which is suitable for eating, btw). Noodles and conventional Vietnamese avenue meals are lower than a greenback.

Vietnam Road Meals Should-Tries

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

• Pho: A basic Vietnamese noodle soup, sometimes with beef (pho bo) or hen (pho ga).
• Banh Mi: A fusion of French and Vietnamese delicacies, this sandwich is made with a baguette crammed with a wide range of meats, greens, and condiments.
• Goi Cuon: Recent 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 avenue 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 be pleasant for vegetarians and vegans, with many dishes which can be both naturally meat-free or may be tailored. Search for dishes like:

• Pho Chay: The vegetarian model of the basic 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: Widespread in Vietnamese delicacies, usually 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 Suggestions 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 effective 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 vegetables and fruit 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 except you’re positive it’s produced from purified water.

📍Prime locations for Vietnam journey

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

Vietnam is a rustic you’ll be able to simply navigate from north to south (or vice-versa). Under are among 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 complicated 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 academic and literary historical past.

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

Pure Wonders and Out of doors Adventures

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

• Ha Lengthy Bay: Identified for its emerald waters and hundreds 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: Identified for its cool local weather, French colonial structure, and vibrant flower gardens. It’s additionally a haven for out of doors actions like mountain biking, 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 points of interest embody the Previous Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. The town’s avenue meals scene can be a spotlight.
• Ho Chi Minh Metropolis: Previously often 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 Put up 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 street, 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 tremendously improve your interplay with locals and your general expertise.

Household is central in Vietnamese society, and elders are handled with nice respect. The idea of ‘face’ can 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 below are some key factors to contemplate:

• ✅ Greet folks with a smile and a nod. Handshakes are frequent, often initiated by the elder or increased standing particular person.
• ✅ Take away footwear when getting into somebody’s dwelling and even some companies and non secular websites.
• ✅ Use each palms when giving or receiving one thing, particularly to somebody older or of upper standing.
• ✅ Costume modestly, significantly when visiting temples and non secular websites.
• ✅ Be affected person, well mannered, and present humility – that is tremendously admired in Vietnamese tradition.
• ❌ Keep away from public shows of anger or frustration; it’s seen as dropping face.
• ❌ Don’t contact somebody’s head, because it’s thought of essentially 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 individuals are typically very pleasant and hospitable to foreigners. Whereas English proficiency varies, particularly exterior the principle cities, locals respect any effort to talk just a few phrases in Vietnamese.

Easy phrases like “Xin chào” (howdy) and “Cảm ơn” (thanks) can go a great distance. Non-verbal communication, comparable to smiling and nodding, additionally performs a big function 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 all over the world. Listed here 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 arrange social occasions the place you’ll be able to meet different vacationers.

A few of you will not be comfy with shared rooms and I get it. As I grew older, I spotted that I’m well beyond dorm rooms. Most hostels in Vietnam have non-public rooms so you’ll be able to 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 taking part in group excursions in Vietnam, particularly meals. You’d be shocked what number of buddies you’ll make and also you’ll most likely find yourself doing different actions with them.

Go to widespread traveler spots

Sure cafes, bars, or landmarks are recognized hangouts for solo vacationers. In Ho Chi Minh Metropolis, I’d suggest 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’ll be able to see and meet different solo vacationers. It’s sometimes called “backpacker district” with a improbable nightlife and avenue meals.

Attend Language Change Meetups in Vietnam

These occasions usually are not solely nice for studying the native language but in addition for assembly different vacationers and locals. Listed here are some frequent language alternate meet-ups in Ho Chi Minh Metropolis:

Take part in Native Occasions and Actions

Partaking in native occasions and actions can improve your journey expertise and will let you 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’ll be able to have in Vietnam (and in addition what’s going to prevent some huge cash) is to volunteer. I’ve volunteered in lots of international locations and have gained many alternative experiences due to this!

I take advantage of Worldpackers to search out volunteer jobs in Vietnam. You can even use my low cost code PSIMONMYWAY10 to get $10 USD off to your one-year membership!

Get a global checking account

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

I’ve signed up with Clever, 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 likely one of the finest on the planet. In actual fact, there are lots of Michelin-star avenue meals carts right here which can be price attempting!

However when you’ve got a delicate abdomen, don’t do it. I by no means received meals poisoning in Vietnam however since I journey usually, I’m tremendous immune with avenue meals.

Take into account your supply

Solely take recommendation about Vietnam solo journey from individuals who have already been. Positive, you’ll be able to learn the information nevertheless it’s nonetheless finest to realize insights from folks you realize who’ve really 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 world chain of contacts whom I can depend on!