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Vietnam
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Experts in Asia - in Asia
Introducing Vietnam
Seeing the real Vietnam with Exotissimo...
Thank you for choosing Exotissimo Travel Vietnam to
organize your travel arrangements in Vietnam. This
document will give you some more information about
the country, the different destinations to visit, useful
information for travelers, a listing of the Exotissimo
preferred hotels, reservations and booking procedures.
Vietnam is an intriguing destination. At the crossroads
of tradition and modernity, an eclectic mix of old and
new, this country will reveal astonishing nds to every
type of traveler. The old world charm is still retained
amid the French inuenced architectures, wide tree-
lined boulevards gracing the cities and former imperial
capitals. History buffs can learn about Vietnams recent
hard fought wars in the museums. Culture seekers will
delight in the discovery of the diverse landscapes and
everyday sights, from bustling oating markets, lush
paddy elds to colorful hill tribes in the highlands. For
beach lovers, Vietnams long coastline is framed with
sandy beaches and clear seas with lots of opportunities
for water-based adventures.
Whatever your interest may be, we assure you that
traveling with Exotissimo to explore Vietnams hidden
treasures will surely be an impressive trip.
Where should I go in Vietnam?
That depends how long youve got, what you want to see and what you want to do. The guide below should help you make those decisions.
If you want to really discover Vietnam, you should set aside a couple of weeks to travel, meet the people and get some kind of understanding for this beautiful and fascinating country. Our shortest tours are half day excursions but the longer youve got the better. At Exotissimo we pride ourselves on being
able to ll everybodys travel plans with just the right mix. It will be our pleasure to make the suggestion and arrangements to allow you to make the most of your precious leisure time. After all, our team of Vietnamese and western travel enthusiasts work, live and travel all over the country and we would
be happy to share our new discoveries with you.
When to go to Vietnam?
Vietnams weather varies greatly from north to south
with each area marked by slightly different seasons
and climates. Because of these regional variations, a
part of the country is seasonable at any time of year.
The north, overall, tends to be cooler than the rest of
the country. During the winter, from November until
February, the day time temperature is pleasantly cool
and the weather is often damp. To the far north in
places like Sapa, there is occasionally freezing tem-
peratures during this time. The north begins to warm
up in March and stays dry and warm until May. From
June to October, the north is hot and rainy making it a
fairly unpleasant place to travel. Overall the best time
to visit the north is from November until April.
Central Vietnam experiences warm weather from July
to October and wet, colder weather from November to
May. Frequent typhoons hit the central coast from Au-
gust to October which can cause ooding and disrupt
travel plans.
Although the temperature remains fairly steady
throughout the year, Southern Vietnam has two sea-
sons. The dry season lasts from December to May,
while from May to November is the rainy season. Most
of the rain is in the afternoon and only lasts a short
time so it is unlikely to disrupt touring plans.
The Chinese new year of Tet is celebrated throughout
Vietnam in late January or early February. During this
time, transport options ll up quickly and lots of res-
taurants and tourist sites are closed so it is not recom-
mended to travel to Vietnam then.
This is a guide to the best of the best of Vietnam lled
with ideas for travel sightseeing and accommodation
with a few insider tips along the way.
What to see in Hanoi?
Lying in the heart of the Red River Delta, the Vietnamese capital city of Hanoi blends
the old world charm with the dynamism of a rising Asian city. Its legacy as a former
French territory is still evident from the French-inspired features - lakes and parks,
colonial architecture and broad tree-lined boulevards - that still dot the present
cityscapes. The city has undergone dramatic transformation over the last thirty years
and is now seeing a burgeoning population paralleled by rising motorbike ownership,
a rapidly expanding retail sector and a ourishing art scene. Yet when compared
with Ho Chi Minh City, the economic powerhouse in the south, Hanoi still retains a
romantic and elegant atmosphere.
Hanoi is one of Asias most fascinating cities with its unique blend of western and
oriental charm. You can wander through the 36 streets in the Old Quarter, rummage
for souvenirs and witness the artisans working on their specialty crafts. As the oldest
university (established since 1070), the Temple of Literature and its ve courtyards
retains a scholarly atmosphere and makes a peaceful respite from Hanois busy
streets. Pay homage to the late Ho Chi Minh at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and his
house on stilts and learn why Uncle Ho is such a respected gure to the Vietnam-
ese. Vietnam is a culturally diverse country and the fascinating ways of life of her 54
ethnic groups can be seen at the Museum of Ethnology.
Hanoi
Where to stay in Hanoi?
To check out the budding arts scene,
pop into the dozens of art galleries that
stock works ranging from traditional to
modern. Some of our favorites, the Apri-
cot Gallery and Art Vietnam have consis-
tently received positive accolades from
art connoisseurs and travelers. Although
modern entertainment outlets are read-
ily available in Hanoi, why not opt to
catch a water puppet show - a unique
cultural form of North Vietnam? For early
risers, head to Hoan Kiem Lake or Park of
Reunication (formerly Lenin Park) and
observe Vietnamese in their synchro-
nized Tai Chi moves. On ne afternoons,
stroll through the French quarter, sip an
aromatic cup of coffee on the sidewalk
and observe the bustling street life.
If you have more time to spare, there are
many interesting locales in Hanois out-
skirts that are lesser visited by tourists.
Tam Coc in Ninh Binh - with its series
of limestone rock formations jutting out
from a sea of rice paddies, is a scenic
and surreal place to visit. Nearby Hoa Lu
also offers similar landscapes of rocky
outcrops - no less spectacular when
compared to Tam Coc - as well as 10th
century relics from when the area was
the capitals country.
To learn about Vietnams pottery his-
tory, a visit to Bat Trang Ceramic Village
should be on the travel agenda. Here,
you could try your hands at making the
ceramics, but it is much easier to be en-
ticed into owning the exquisite vases,
bowls and dishes produced from the
hands of the talented Bat Trang potters.
For lovers of indigenous crafts, the Van
Phuc Weaving Village lures visitors with
its bewildering range of silk products.
Explore the rustic landscapes by cycling
around the citys northern outskirts in
Dong Ho Village, which is also famous
for its painting styles that depict the
traditional Vietnamese village lives. Fol-
low the trails of Vietnamese pilgrims and
embark on a 2-hour trek up Huong Son
Mountain to Perfume Pagoda (or Chua
Huong), with lots of photographic oppor-
tunities along the way.
When in Hanoi, a stay in a colonial-style hotel should not be missed. The Sotel
Metropole Legend Hanoi is a celebrated Hanoi institution which boasts of an impres-
sive guest list. For a lavish stay, the InterContinental Westlake Hanoi tops with its
chic Vietnamese dcor and waterfront location by the historic West Lake. Nearby the
famous Hoan Kiem Lake, the boutique Maison DHanoi
Hanova Hotel appeals to discerning travelers with its
55 tastefully designed rooms. For accommodations that
are more wallet-friendly but yet present good value, we
prefer The Silk Path Hotel - conveniently located within
walking distance to the Old Quarter and other city
attractions.
Where to eat in Hanoi?
For street eats, Pho Bo (beef noodle
soup), Bun Cha (grilled meat with dry
noodles) and Banh Cuon (pho package
with beef rolls) usually make good intro-
duction to the local cuisine. For delicious
pho eats, consider the ubiquitous Pho
24 which offers different varieties of the
much-loved Vietnamese beef noodle.
The popular Quan An Ngon makes a
good introduction to Vietnamese cuisine
with its scrumptious and inexpensive of-
fering in a courtyard setting.
A classic Hanoi dish, Cha Ca - grilled
sh with tumeric usually served with
rice noodles - is best savored on Cha Ca
Street where this northern specialty dish
originated at Cha Ca La Vong Restaurant.
Highway 4 is a recommended stop for its
complete dining experience with its de-
lectable range of traditional Vietnamese
liquor and specialty dishes. The bustling
Bao Khanh Street, lined with numerous
cafs and open-air eateries, is a great
hunt for a cup of Vietnamese coffee
while people-watching.
Housed in an old colonial building, both
Wild Lotus and Seasons of Hanoi are styl-
ish establishments that serve rich Viet-
namese menu with tasteful Asian dcor.
For French - Vietnamese fusion fare, opt
for Didier Corlous La Verticale which
showcases an impressive selection in an
intimate setting. For the ultimate dining
experience, head to one of the homes of
the celebrated chefs who will whip up a
tantalizing dinner for you.
An imperial city during the Nguyen dynasty, Hue still
retains much of its royal heritage and laidback atmo-
sphere. Straddling the banks of Song Huong River (Per-
fume River) in Central Vietnam, it is best known for
its historic monuments and architecture and has been
appointed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Hue
What to see in Hue?
Where to stay in Hue?
Step into imperial times with a visit to the large Hue
Citadel, the prime attraction of Hue. There, the walled
interior houses the Forbidden City - a sprawling com-
plex of palaces, temples, pavilions and galleries. Enjoy
a romantic boat ride along the Perfume River on the
way to explore the royal tombs of Tu Duc, Minh Mang
and other former emperors that lie scattered around
the countryside. The covered bridge, lush paddy elds
and cottage industries that dot the city outskirts of-
fer varied and interesting excursions. Hue is good for a
day trip out to the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), a buffer
site between North and South Vietnam that saw intense
ghting during the American War. Traverse the quaint
streets of Hue on a cyclo or bicycle and take in Hues
unique atmosphere. Do not forget to visit nha vuon, el-
egant historic garden houses that are exclusive to Hue.
La Residence Hotel & Spa is the citys top accommo-
dation with its enchanting blend of French colonial
dcor and tranquil location by the Perfume River. In
the quaint countryside, Pilgrimage Village lures with its
harmonious combination of a rustic village setting and
modern art elements.
Where to eat in Hue?
Where to go in Hoi An?
The recommended street eats are Banh Khoai (tradi-
tional savory pancake), Com Hen (tiny mussels served
on rice with soup) and Bun Bo Hue (hot and steamy
beef noodle soup). Modeled after a style house, An-
cient Hue offers imperial style cuisine. Near the Citadel,
Y Thao Garden is a simple yet charming choice. Dine
in style in the grounds of the former mandarin houses
or hobnob with the locals as you tuck into a bowl of
noodles at the Dong Ba Market. For the romantics, a
private dinner cruise down the Perfume River makes a
memorable experience.
Hoi Ans tailors are renowned for their high workman-
ship, so be sure to shop for tailor-made clothes. Do also
shop for interesting souvenirs such as silk lanterns and
custom made jewelry. Head to the Old Town where his-
torical sights await. There, you can cross the Japanese
covered bridge, stroll through the cultural halls, enjoy a
traditional music performance, and explore the layout
of an ancient house.
Situated along the south central coast of Vietnam, Hoi
An is an outstanding example of a well-preserved an-
cient town that has been designated a World Heritage
Site. Known as Faifo in the past, it was a major port
town that boasted multi-cultural inuences from the
16th 18th centuries. Today, it is a quaint and pictur-
esque town that can be easily explored on foot.
Hoi An
Where to stay in Hoi An?
Where to eat in Hoi An?
Just a few kilometers out of town, Cua Dai Beachs
golden sands provide a nice place to unwind over fresh
seafood. Explore the small villages on a bicycle and dis-
cover artisans crafting pottery in the narrow streets. For
day trips out of Hue, opt for the historical Cham stat-
ues at My Son or to the Marble Mountain where caves,
temples and magnicent views await at the summit.
Situated close to the old town, the Ha An Hotel offers
a pleasant stay amid its shophouse-style property and
manicured gardens. For a luxurious resort stay, it has
to be The Nam Hai which sits on a tranquil stretch of
palm-lined beach facing China Sea. Overlooking the
scenic Do River and lush paddy elds, the gorgeous
Life Resort is highly favored for its proximity to Cua Dai
beach and the old quarter.
In Hoi An, do not miss the local specialty Cao Lau which
is a dry noodle dish with a tantalizing touch. Other deli-
cacies include Hoa Hong (white rose dumplings) and
Mi Quang (noodle soup with a foray of ingredients).
With only 6 tables, the seafood specialty restaurant Hoi
An Hai San features a cozy and intimate atmosphere
but pre-booking is required if you want guaranteed
seats. The funky Mango Rooms serves fusion food at its
best delectable dishes with great visual appeal. If you
are eager to learn local culinary recipes, be sure to join
in the cooking classes at Tra Que Organic Vegetable Vil-
lage which produces the countrys nest organic food.
For an original culinary experience in Hoi An, indulge
in a private picnic on a deserted beach on the Cham
Island (accessible by speedboat).
Commonly referred to as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City
(HCMC) is Vietnams largest city and undisputed com-
merce capital. It is a dynamic city that is currently en-
joying the fruits of Vietnams economic boom lavish
hotels, decadent restaurants and trendy nightspots
are continually added to the cityscape. The younger
residents may seem status oriented and eager to ank
their new-found wealth, a signicant change from the
war-savaged population barely one generation ago.
Yet against the backdrop of new-found condence,
frenetic development and urban bustle, the boutique
charm of HCMC still lives on amongst the tree-lined
boulevards, quaint wooden shops, old temples and co-
lonial architecture. The city is quickly making a name
for itself in Vietnamese crafts shopping, an emerging
art scene and a wide range of dining pleasures (with
almost every imaginable cuisine available).
Ho Chi Minh City
What to see in HCMC?
Within the city, HCMC has many sights that should not
be missed. A city tour of the Opera House, Le Loi Street,
Reunication Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral and War
Remnants Museum on a classic Citroen or Vespa scoot-
er are nostalgic ways to be introduced to this former
colonial city. Ben Thanh Market, a massive old-style
market in the central district, is a place to rummage
for knock-offs and interesting souvenirs. However, do
not forget to bargain hard (but in a polite manner) for
your purchases.
For more posh buys, head to art galleries and fashion
shops that line Dong Khoi. If you are keen to own a
piece of propaganda art, Dogma stocks a unique range.
History buffs should reminisce at Rex Hotel, where me-
dia briengs known as ve oclock follies to inter-
national correspondents were held during the Vietnam
War. For a night out, hit the citys chic bars and restau-
rants that are crowded by the rich and trendy.
If you have a bit of time to spare, make a day trip
outside of Ho Chi Minh City to the Cu Chi Tunnels. This
network of over 200 kilometers of tunnels was used
by the Vietcong during the American war and offers a
fascinating look into the lives of the inhabitants during
the war-time era. This can easily be combined with a
stop at Wildlife at Risk (WAR) rescue centre, a non-
prot organization to stop illegal wildlife trade, and Tay
Ninh Temple, home to the intriguing Cao Dai religion.
Where to stay in HCMC? What to eat in HCMC?
Park Hyatt Saigon is the citys most luxurious hotel
that packs world-class restaurants and spa services in
a classic French colonial building. One of the nest in
its class, the Caravelle Hotel offers commanding views
of the city and overlooks Lam Son Square and the Op-
era House. Recently refurnished, Palace Hotel Saigon
retains its original French architecture and is favored
for its convenient location in the citys heart. Another
landmark building from the colonial era, Hotel Majestic
exudes old world charm combined with excellent ser-
vice and rooms come with either pool or river views.
The cosy and unique Sanouva is well located close to
Ben Thanh market and boasts charms with its well fur-
nished interiors and friendly staff.
Street eats can be found in almost every corner of this
bustling city. To be inducted into Southern Vietnamese
cuisine, opt for Lau (hotpot with cook your own ingredi-
ents served on the side), Com Nieu (broken rice served
out of a claypot) and Banh Xeo (pancakes cooked over
a ame). To enjoy the clatter of an authentic Vietnam-
ese eatery, Com Nieu will surely leave an impression
when the waiters ing claypots across the restaurant.
Dong Pho is the best place to enjoy a meal of tradi-
tional Hue dishes in Ho Chi Minh City.
If you are looking for authentic Vietnamese cuisine in an old world setting, Anh Vien receives the thumbs-up it
offers superb food and tasteful dcor in an old French villa. Tucked in a former opium renery (hence the name)
in a small alley, the Renery is a French bistro that serves a wide range of light eats in classy dcor. Just next door,
Hoa Tuc serves a tantalizing selection of Vietnamese dishes in an elegant setting of green and purple hues. Xu is
our favorite when it comes to fusion Vietnamese fare, a renowned restaurant cum bar tops with a chic and classy
atmosphere.
From Hanoi, a scenic 3-hour drive through the Red
River Delta leads you to Hanoi. In the famed Halong
Bay, the sublime beauty of magnicent limestone for-
mations rising dramatically from the waters is best
experienced on a boat cruise. Be transported back to
the nostalgic charm of yesteryear aboard the Emer-
aude, a luxurious replica of a grand colonial steamer.
Other charming vessels in Halong Bay include Jasmine
and Violet Junks, Paradise Cruise and utterly charm-
ing Indochina Junks. Make a stop at a local village to
enjoy the captivating performance of traditional water
puppetry, a distinctive art form of the Red River Delta.
Buon Ma Thuot is the largest city in Vietnams Central
Highlands region, an unexplored area with great ad-
venture and trekking potential. The abundance of un-
touched forests, stunning landscapes, national parks
and hill tribe villages are still off the tourist trails.
Although not a major stop on the tourist trail, Danangs
location between Hoi An and Hue makes a nice stop
along the way. The city is one of the most dynamic of
Vietnams modern cities with rapid industrial and eco-
nomic growth. Visitors to Danang can enjoy the under-
stated, yet fascinating Cham art and culture at Cham
Museum. On the outskirts of town is China Beach,
steeped in legend yet wonderfully deserted.
Just a four-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City, Mui Ne
is renowned for its long stretches of sandy beaches
and perennial sea breezes that greatly complement
wind-surng and kite-surng. It is also famous for the
wind-sculpted red and white sand dunes that make
great postcard shots and adventurous sports. Golfers
can tee off at the Nick Faldo-designed Ocean Dunes Golf
Course. Home to many different resorts, the luxurious
Victoria Phan Thiet, the boutique Cham Villas and the
newly refurnished Blue Ocean are our top selects for
this charming beach town.
Vietnams northern mountain ranges are breathtak-
ingly beautiful with fresh air and cool temperatures.
To visit these remote mountains, take advantage of the
elegantly restored Victoria Train with its plush seat-
ing and wood-paneled Pullman carriages. Home to a
diverse group of hill tribes such as Tay, Red Dao, Black
and Flower Hmong, Sapa boasts of ample hill tribe
trekking and home stay opportunities. Victoria Sapa
Resort combines mountain traveling with stylish com-
fort while Topas Eco Lodge provides a peaceful retreat
amid the lush valleys. Beyond Sapa, Mount Fansipan
(Indochinas highest peak) is great for trekking and
exploration.
With its perennial cool weather, pine-clad valleys and
weathered but elegant French hilltop villas, Dalat is
Vietnams premier hill station. Opportunities abound
for meetings and incentives in boutique colonial hotels
such as the Dalat Palace Hotel, as well as mountain ad-
ventures of absailing, canyoning and even world-class
golng. For an opulent alpine retreat, Ana Mandara Vil-
las Dalat is a good t.
Halong Bay Buon Ma Thuot Danang Mui Ne Sapa Dalat
Located in Binh Thuan province, Phan Thiet is a small
coastal town with a thriving shing industry. Check
out the production of nuoc mam (sh sauce seasoning
commonly used in Vietnamese cuisine). Golf lovers will
be delighted with a choice of two international class
golf courses overlooking the sea Ocean Dunes and
the recently established Sealinks.
One of the worlds most fertile areas, the Mekong Delta
is home to countless rice elds and tributaries across
thousands of square miles of at land. An overnight
cruise in the Mekong Delta is denitely worthwhile, for
the experience of awakening in the early morning to
nd oating markets and villages oating around you
is incredible. The small sizes of the Song Xanh Sam-
pans and Cai Be Princess are perfect for glimpses into
the local ways of life while relaxing in the comfort of a
oating boutique hotel. The ornate vessels of Pandaw
and Bassac are great for Mekong Delta cruises between
Ho Chi Minh City and Phnom Penh.
Quy Nhon is Vietnams other secret destination. Occu-
pying the stretch of coastline between Danang and Nha
Trang, this port city is close to spectacular secluded
bays and unpopulated private islands. The Life Well-
ness Resort Quy Nhon makes an ideal location for a
peaceful retreat.
In the heart of Khanh Hoa province, Nha Trang is the
undisputed beach capital of Vietnam. Besides long
stretches of sand lapped by crystal clear waters, it is
dotted with many islands each with its own distinct
character. The turquoise waters play host to teem-
ing marine life, and snorkeling and scuba diving are
perennial favorites. This beach town also features a
vibrant night life. The lovely Evason Ana Mandara and
Sheraton top the resorts in Nha Trang and for travel-
ers seeking a luxurious resort experience, the remote
six-star Six Senses Hideaway Ninh Van Bay does not
disappoint.
Off Vietnams southern coast in the Gulf of Thailand,
the island of Phu Quoc is one of Asias up and rising
beach destination. The islands clear waters, isolated
beaches, forested interior and charming local character
make for an ideal beach escape. Do not forget to sam-
ple Phu Quocs famous traditional products - sh sauce
and black pepper. For a relaxing tropical beach retreat,
try La Veranda Resort & Spa or ChenSea Resort & Spa.
Phan Thiet Mekong Delta Quy Nhon Nha Trang Phu Quoc
AIRLINES
ATMs
CLOTHING
ELECTRICITY
HEALTH
ENTERTAINMENT
FOOD
CREDIT CARDS
Domestic: Three domestic airlines are currently operat-
ing in Vietnam: Vietnam Airlines, Jetstar-Pacic Airlines
and Indochina Airlines. Both Jetstar-Pacic and Indochi-
na Airlines are low-cost carriers (LCC). Jetstar is a joint
venture company between Qantas Australia and Pacic
Air. Indochina Airiness is Vietnams newest airline and
is privately owned. All airlines are using a mixture of
Boeing and Airbus planes and Vietnamese as well as
foreign pilots.
AIRPORT TAX
There is a departure tax on all international ights from
Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City but this tax is already in-
cluded in the price of your all airplane tickets.
ARRIVAL IN VIETNAM
BY AIR: Consult your local travel agent for routings,
fares and availability on ights to Vietnam. Discount
websites and ight search engines may offer some
good deals. Major airlines ying to Ho Chi Minh City or
Vietnam - FAQs
Hanoi include: Vietnam Airlines, Air France, United Air-
lines, Lufthansa, Thai Airways, Qatar Airways, Bangkok
Airways and many more. Major airlines ying to Dan-
ang International Airport include PB Air from Bangkok
and Silk Air from Singapore.
BY LAND: Vietnam shares a border with China in the
north (three border crossings), Laos in the west (three
border crossings) and Cambodia in the south-west
(three border crossings).
From China: Trains from Beijing to Hanoi pass by Nan-
ning and Pinxiang in China and enter Vietnam at Dong
Dang (north of Lang Son). There is also a road crossing
know as Huu Nghi in Lang Son province. Trains coming
from Kunming cross the border at Lao Cai, in northwest
Vietnam. From Guangzhou, you will cross the border
at Mong Cai, a few hours drive from Halong and its
spectacular Bay.
From Laos: If you travel from Laos by road via Savan-
nakhet and Sepon, you will get to Vietnam by the Lao
Bao (Vietnam) border crossing. This crossing links Laos
to central Vietnam (Danang and Dong Ha). If you travel
from Vientiane, you will cross Lak Sao before entering
Vietnam by Cau Treo border crossing, in Ha Tinh Prov-
ince (Vietnam). The Nam Can border crossing connects
Nghe An Province (Vietnam) and Xieng Khuang Province
(Laos).
From Cambodia: If you travel from Phnom Penh by
speedboat, you will enter Vietnam at Chau Doc, in the
Mekong Delta area. If you arrive from Cambodia by road
into Ho Chi Minh City, you will enter Vietnam at Moc
Bai, which connects Vietnams Tay Ninh Province with
Cambodias Svay Rieng Province. Border crossing at
Prek Chak/Xaxia (close to Kep in Cambodia and Ha Tien
in Vietnam) are now possible.
NOTE: You cannot obtain a visa on arrival at land bor-
der-crossing points. If you enter Vietnam by land, you
must obtain the visa before arrival. Refer to our VISA
section below for more information.
ARRIVAL FORMALITIES/ VISA ON ARRIVAL
In case you are obtaining your pre-arranged visa on
arrival please proceed to the Visa counter and read the
visa section.
ATMs for withdrawing Vietnamese Dong are available in
major airports, hotels, towns and capitals of provinces
throughout Vietnam. Most ATMs have an English lan-
guage version. Ask your tour guide for help when you
need to locate an ATM.
Comfortable lightweight clothing in natural fabrics such
as cotton is most suitable for traveling in Vietnam. The
dress code is fairly casual as in most parts of the trop-
ics but it is advisable to cover arms and legs in the
evenings against biting insects. A lightweight raincoat
and umbrella are a good idea in the rainy season and
an umbrella can also offer useful shade from the sun.
Evenings in the north and the center can be quite chilly
so bring a sweater and a good jacket especially from
November to February. Visitors should not wear shorts,
short skirts or other revealing clothing when visiting pa-
godas and monasteries. Shoes must be removed before
entering some religious building or a private home. It is
therefore useful to wear shoes without too many laces
and which can easily be taken off.
Vietnam mainly uses 220V but in some areas, 110V is
also used. A mixture of at and round 2-pin outlets
are used throughout the country. It is recommended to
bring a universal plug adaptor.
No vaccinations are mandatory except for yellow fever
if you are coming from an area where the disease is
present. However visitors should be inoculated against
typhoid, cholera, hepatitis A & B, tetanus and polio.
Malaria is present in most of the region and it is ad-
visable to take precautions, especially if traveling off
the beaten track. Medical facilities are limited and it is
essential to take out a good medical insurance policy
before traveling in case evacuation is needed.
Consult your doctor for up-to-date information and
prescriptions for vaccinations, anti-malarial tablets and
any reasonably foreseeable illnesses whilst traveling in
Vietnam. Some vaccination courses may need time to
be completed. If you plan to take anti-malarial tablets,
you usually need to start one week before arrival. We
recommend that you carry a rst aid kit as well as any
personal medical requirements (including a spare pair
of glasses).
There are plenty of entertainment options in Vietnam
and restaurants, bars and nightclubs open until late
at night/early in the morning. A wide variety of restau-
rants are on offer, with everything from Vietnamese,
Asian, Italian, French cuisine, etc. to fast food.
Vietnamese cuisine comes as a pleasant surprise to
many visitors and is denitely a part of the Vietnam ex-
perience not to be missed. One of the characteristics of
Vietnamese food is that it is always bought fresh from
the market the same morning. Food is usually prepared
with a minimum of oil and served with the ubiquitous
sh sauce called nuoc mam. Typical Vietnamese dishes
Most credit cards are accepted in Vietnam. Visa and
MasterCard are the most widely accepted. JCB and
American Express are also accepted in some outlets.
Not all hotels, commercial centers, shops and restau-
rants accept credit cards. Check with the cashier before
making any purchases. Bear in mind that in some plac-
es a surcharge applies for credit card purchases: Visa
and MasterCard charge approximately 2.2% surcharge,
JCB: 2.75% surcharge, American Express: 4% surcharge.
NOTE: Surcharges can change without prior notice.
Check the percentage charged before you pay.
you can expect to try include pho, a type of rice noodle
soup eaten for breakfast, cha gio, deep-fried spring
rolls and goi ngo sen, a delicious salad made with lotus
stems, shrimps and peanuts. Due to the strong Bud-
dhist inuence in Vietnam, vegetarian food is widely
available.
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TIME
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 2011 - 2012
PHOTOGRAPHY
LANGUAGE
Ofces are usually open from Monday to Friday from
07:30 or 08:00 until 17:00 or 18:00 and often close for
lunch between 11:30 and 13:00. Some ofces also open
on Saturday morning. Shops open early and close any
time between 18:00 and 22:00. Most shops are open 7
days a week.
Normal print lms are available in Vietnam as well as
Major hotels have Business Centers with PCs connected
to the Internet. Some of them have wireless broadband
access in rooms or public areas. Cybercafs are avail-
able everywhere and are easily found in major towns
and cities. Prices are reasonable, usually below US$1
per hour. Most Internet cafs are equipped with web-
cams, headsets and microphones. Vietnam has an ex-
ceptional amount of cafs and restaurants offering free
WIFI connections, if having a meal or a drink internet
fees are waived.
The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND).
US Dollars and Euros are accepted in many hotels, res-
taurants and shops. Banks are open Monday to Friday
from 08:00 to 05:00 and some on Saturday morning.
In the major cities, some exchange ofces open long
hours near places frequented by tourists and most ho-
tels will change US Dollars and Euros at very reasonable
rates.
For everyday expenses, we recommend carrying a mix
of US Dollars and VND in cash. For larger items or when
the exchange rate works in your favor, use US Dollars.
For cyclos, local food stalls and small purchases, its
best to use VND. In either case, make sure you always
have a stock of small notes so that you dont have to
worry about change.
Postcards are sold at all main tourist sites and stamps
are available from post ofces and some hotel recep-
tion desks. A postcard to Europe costs VND 9,000 (0.5
USD) to send and can take up to two weeks to reach
the country of destination.
Buddhism is the dominant religion in Vietnam and is
usually combined with elements of Confucianism and
Taoism. About 10% of the countrys population is Catho-
lic and there are also communities of Protestants and
Muslims. Vietnam is also home to a unique religion
called Cao Dai, a religious cocktail of all the worlds
major faiths.
Vietnam is a safe country to visit. As a global rule, never
leave your belongings unattended and always maintain
eye contact or a rm grip on cameras and shoulder
bags. Avoid cyclos late at night and choose reliable
metered taxi companies as they are really cheap and
air-conditioned.
Souvenirs to look out for in Vietnam include lacquer-
ware, silk, conical hats, woodcarvings, hill tribe fabrics
and handicrafts, embroidery, marble, ceramics, silver
jewelry, antique watches and paintings. Ho Chi Minh
City and Hanoi have the best choices when it comes to
shopping but Hoi An is also a very good place to hunt
for bargains.
Tipping for good service is not expected but is always
appreciated in a country where the average annual in-
come is quite low compared to Europe for example. It is
customary to tip tour guides and drivers at the end of
a tour. Hotel and station porters should also be tipped.
Do not let the guide talk you into tipping more than
you plan to. It is totally up to you who you tip, when
and how much
Vietnamese law does not allow foreigners to rent and
drive a car. It is highly advisable to rent a car with a
driver who knows the roads and can speak Vietnamese
in case of any problems. Trafc and roads conditions
may be very different to what you are used to.
Generally drivers do not speak English although you
might get lucky.
Banks such as CitiBank, ANZ Bank. HSBC and Vietcom-
bank can change your travelers checks for VND or US
Dollars but a commission applies (1% to 2%). Very few
shops, hotels or restaurants accept travelers checks.
If you have worldwide coverage, you can bring your
own mobile phone and use it to make domestic or in-
ternational calls. Check with your mobile phone pro-
vider for the costs before using it abroad - it may be
expensive.
Most hotels now have IDD phones in rooms and it is
possible to send faxes from hotels and post ofces al-
though these services are expensive. It may not always
be possible to make international calls in remote areas.
Vietnam is GMT 7 and does not operate daylight-saving
system.
January 1
New Years Day
February 2 -5
Tet or Vietnamese New Year. The actual dates vary from
year to year according to the lunar calendar. Ofcially
a three-day holiday but many businesses close down
for a full week. This is the busiest time of the year for
travelling in Vietnam and hotels, ights and trains are
often full.
April 12
Hung Kings Birthday
The national language of Vietnam is Vietnamese. In
big cities and in places with many tourists, people will
speak basic English. The younger generation will be
more adept at speaking English, while the older gen-
eration still speaks some French. Because Vietnamese
has six different tones, it is a difcult language for most
foreigners to speak despite the fact that the Roman al-
phabet is used in modern Vietnamese. The same word
can have six different meanings depending on the tone
used to pronounce it. Russian and Chinese are also
spoken by some people.
professional quality lms (like slide lms). Digital pho-
tos can easily be downloaded and loaded onto a CD-
Rom in case you run out of memory.
April 30
Liberation of Saigon Day
May 1
International Labor Day
September 2
National Day
VISAS
Most visitors to Vietnam require a visa to enter the
country and all travelers must have a passport valid for
6 months after their planned exit from Vietnam.
Exceptions: Nationals from Norway, Sweden, Denmark,
Finland, and Russia traveling to Vietnam and staying
for 15 days or less do not need to apply for entry visas,
provided that their passport is valid for at least three
months and they can show their return ticket. Those
who wish to stay longer than 15 days will need to ap-
ply for a visa.
Tourists holding ASEAN passports do not need a visa for
a visit up to 30 days. Philippines passport holders do
not need a visa for a visit up to 21 days. Japanese and
South Korean passport holders do not need a visa for a
visit up to 15 days.
A tourist visa is normally a single entry visa, which
means that if you exit Vietnam (for example for a side
trip to Cambodia), you will require a new visa to re-
enter (or apply for a Multiple Entry Visa). The validity of
a Tourist Visa is 30 days and is normally a single entry
visa is given unless a multiple entry is requested.
There are 2 ways to obtain a visa:
Case 1: Visa application in your country before depar-
ture
In case there is a Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate in
your home town:
Apply directly at the Vietnamese embassy or consulate.
The length of the process can vary.
In order to accelerate the process, bring the Approval
letter done by us (see below) your passport 2 recent
passport-sized photos and ll out the paperwork re-
quired. Your visa can then be delivered much faster. A
visa stamping fee is charged locally. Fees vary from one
country to another.
Note: A visa requested as a multi-entry at embassies
abroad is often issued as a single entry; it is recom-
mended to double-check your visa stamp in passport
when collecting your passport. Multiple entry visas can
also be arranged on arrival (Case 2).
Case 2: Pre-arranged Visa on arrival at international
entry points
In case there is NO Vietnamese embassy or consulate
in your home town:
Send us all passport details as required below and we
will process a pre-approval here from Vietnam. Bring
the Visa pick-up upon arrival approval letter (see be-
low) to the airline check-in counter. Without this letter
airlines may refuse you boarding.
On arrival in Vietnam, proceed to the Visa on Arrival
counter at the airports. You will be asked to ll one
more form, give 2 photos and pay USD 25/person (Sin-
gle entry) and USD 50/person (Multiple entry) in cash
before the visa is stamped into your passport and be-
fore going through passport control.
Such a procedure is possible at the international air-
ports in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon and Danang)
and at the land border of Moc Bai (coming from Cambo-
dia near Ho Cho Minh City here you need the ORIGINAL
paper and a copy will not be accepted please allow for
extra time to have original sent to you by DHL).
Before departure, prepare some bank notes in US Dol-
lars to pay the visa stamping fee on arrival.
For both cases mentioned above Exotissimo can fa-
cilitate the visa application procedure and obtain the
necessary visa pre-approval from the Vietnamese Immi-
gration Department in advance. We need the following
details from all applicants:
- Full name as it appears in your passport
- Date of birth DD/MM/YY
- Gender
- Passport number
- Issue date and expiry date of your passport
- Place of issue (e.g. Paris, France)
- Case 1: Location where you collect the visa, e.g. Viet-
nam embassy in Paris.
- Case 2: Arrival date and ight number (e.g. 24th of
March 2009 by Vietnam Airlines ight VN532) and Port
of entry (e.g. Ho Chi Minh City, Tan Son Nhat airport)
We will send you in time the ofcial document issued
by the Vietnamese Immigration department. In Case 1
it is an Approval letter, in Case 2 it is a Visa pick-up
upon arrival approval letter. The approval process usu-
ally takes 5-7 working days. A processing fee is charged
for this service. In urgent cases (less than 5 days) an
express surcharge will be charged.
In urgent cases (less than 5 days) an express surcharge
of USD 20 will be charged.
A supplement for DHL fees will be charged in case you
need the original document (land crossing Moc Bai from
Cambodia to Vietnam).
NOTE: All the above information may change without
prior notice. It remains the travelers responsibility to
verify whether or not you are subject to a tourist visa
for Vietnam.
WEATHER
Hanoi and the north of Vietnam have distinct winter and
summer seasons. The mainly dry winter lasts from No-
vember to April with average temperatures of 18-20C.
Summer lasts from May to October and is hot and hu-
mid with temperatures around 30C. Hue and Danang,
in the center of the country, see very hot, dry weather
from February to August with temperatures reaching
the mid-30sC, but can experience some heavy rainfall
between September and January. Ho Chi Minh City and
the south have a hot, dry season from December till
April with average temperatures hovering around 28C
and a warm rainy season from May to November. In the
rainy season, most rain comes in short, heavy bursts.
There is good weather somewhere in Vietnam all year
round! Vietnam stretches over 2000 km from North to
South. The climate differs all year round from one re-
gion to another. The North can be chilly during winter
months (December to March). North and Central Viet-
nam can encounter tropical storms and typhoons from
October to January. Overall, the north of Vietnam ex-
periences more marked seasons than the rest of the
country with two distinct seasons: wet and dry.
The South, including Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong
Delta, benets from sunshine and warm weather all
year round. However, the rainy season lasts from May
to November (with showers once or twice daily in gen-
eral) and a dry season from December to April. The
Central Highlands can be chilly. Nha Trang has warm
sometimes hot - weather all year round, with a rainy
season from the end of September until December.
Unless you intend to visit friends, relatives or your fam-
ily, we do not recommend visiting Vietnam during the
Lunar New Year or Tet holiday (Vietnamese New Year
falls between late January and February). Tet is the most
important period of the year for many Vietnameses who
take time off to visit their families in the countryside.
All hotels, buses, trains and ights are full, and there
is almost no activity in the markets and shops. Some
hotels and restaurants are under-staffed and in some
cases the quality of the service may suffer. This period
of reduced activity may last from a week before and a
week after the Tet period. It is also impossible to get a
visa authorization letter processed during this period.
WATER
It is not advisable to drink tap water but bottled min-
eral water is safe and available everywhere. All hotels
provide a complimentary bottle of local mineral water
per person in the room. Ice cubes in drinks is generally
okay in good standard hotels and restaurants but it is
best to avoid it on street stalls or in country areas.
www.exotissimo.com
EXOTISSIMO TRAVEL VIETNAM
Ho Chi Minh City - Main Ofce
261-263 Phan Xich Long Street
Phu Nhuan District, Ho Chi Minh City, VIETNAM
Tel: +84 (0) 8 3995 9898
Fax: +84 (0) 8 3995 9184/5
Email: go [dot] vietnam [at] exotissimo [dot] com
Hanoi - Branch Ofce
26 Tran Nhat Duat Street
Hanoi, VIETNAM
Tel: +84 (0) 4 3828 2150
Fax: +84 (0) 4 3828 2146
Email: go [dot] vietnam [at] exotissimo [dot] com