Vietnam Key Travel Information

Trip Overview

Is this trip right for you?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a well-paced but full itinerary that covers a lot of ground in a relatively short time. Expect a mix of busy sightseeing days, early starts, and some longer travel days as we move between regions, including domestic flights.

We will have two nights on a small boat, although the ride is usually very smooth, you may want to bring something if you’re prone to sea sickness.

Depending on where you’re coming from, the weather in Vietnam might be hotter and more humid than what you are used to. It’s important to stay hydrated; consider bringing electrolytes.

How physically challenging is the trip?

This trip is easy to moderate. You can expect a good amount of walking and active days, but nothing is overly strenuous. If you’re concerned about an activity, please ask.

Where does the trip start and end?

The trip begins in Hanoi and ends in Ho Chi Minh City, taking you from the charm of the north all the way down to the energy of the south. You can view the full day-by-day itinerary here.

Airport transportation

What are the included hotels?

During this 12-day, 11-night trip, you’ll stay at a thoughtfully selected mix of hotels:

Rex Hotel – Hanoi
Emeralda Tam Coc Resort – Ninh Binh
Swan Cruise – Bai Tu Long Bay
Legacy Hoi An Resort – Hoi An
Silverland May Hotel – Hoi Chi Minh City

Are laundry services available?

Yes, laundry is available at all of the hotels on this trip for an additional cost, so you’ll have opportunities to refresh clothes along the way. The two nights on the boat are the main exception, laundry is unavailable.

What are the included transportation options?

Transportation throughout the trip is included and will be a mix of private vehicle transfers, domestic flights, and overnight on a small boat.

Included activities

This trip includes a thoughtfully planned mix of activities that highlight Vietnam’s culture, history, and natural beauty. Expect a blend of guided sightseeing, time to explore, and experiences that let you see both iconic highlights and quieter local moments.

If you ever want to sit something out, that’s absolutely fine, as long as we’re not traveling between destinations. Please note that refunds aren’t available and the schedule can’t be adjusted to match individual preferences.

You will also have time to book optional activities and we’re happy to help with that or provide recommendations.

How many people are in the group?

This is a small-group experience with a maximum of 16 travelers, plus a guide (or guides) throughout the trip.

Trip minimum

A minimum of 7 travelers is required to run the trip at the listed price.

Payment dates and refunds

The deadline to secure your spot is August 11, 2026, but many trips sell out well in advance! The deposit is due at the time of booking to confirm your participation and is non-refundable unless the trip isn’t confirmed.

The final balance is due by August 24, 2026. If additional trip payments are made prior to the deadline (August 24, 2026), those are refundable, less processing fees. After August 24, the trip is non-refundable.

It is advised to get a travel insurance policy that includes cancellation coverage after making the deposit.

If the trip isn’t confirmed

Like most small boutique tour operators, we require a minimum number of travelers to operate our trips. While larger companies may be able to absorb losses, operating responsibly as a small business means we must ensure each trip is financially viable.

In the unlikely event that a trip is not confirmed, several options are available. If the trip is close to the minimum, we may reassess pricing and offer travelers the option to proceed at an adjusted rate. We can also explore planning a private departure for you and your travel companions. Alternatively, you may transfer your deposit to another Veggies Abroad trip, or request a full refund of your deposit if none of these options feels like the right fit for you.

Itinerary disclaimer

Please note that the itinerary is subject to change. We always stay flexible to account for weather, site closures, and the occasional unexpected surprise that’s simply part of travel. Rest assured, any adjustments are made with the best possible experience in mind.

We will also do our best to provide rough estimates on timing, but please note that due to traffic, construction, festivals, closures, etc., there might be changes, or we might not be able to give a firm answer.

Local Partners

To deliver a sustainable and authentic experience, this trip is operated by Intrepid Travel. Veggies Abroad and Intrepid co-create the itinerary, with Intrepid handling all in-destination logistics through their trusted local teams.

Essential Pre-Departure Information

Passports, visas, and entry requirements

Most nationalities are required to obtain a tourist visa in advance to travel to Vietnam. An eVisa is available for some nationalities and is valid for a single entry of 30 days. For information on obtaining an eVisa visit the Vietnam immigration website.

Evisas take 3 – 5 business days to be processed. You will need a clear electronic copy of your passport data page and passport photo, and a non-refundable payment. Keep the customs and immigration form you receive on arrival, as you need it to complete exit formalities on departure.

If your visa application asks for a point of contact, please use: Intrepid Vietnam 5th floor HiPT Building, 152 Thuy Khue Street, Thuy Khue, Tay Ho, Hanoi Phone: +84 4 3715 0996.

Medical and health information

Can I bring all medications into the country?

If you’re unsure whether something you take could be restricted, check your government’s travel advice and talk with your doctor before you leave. When it comes to medication, it’s always better to be over-prepared than stuck without what you need mid-trip.

Vaccinations and health considerations

Packing Recommendations

Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as we’ll be on our feet regularly throughout the trip. A small day backpack is also really helpful for daily exploring, so you can easily carry essentials like your water bottle, sunscreen, and anything else you want with you while we’re out and about.

Because we’ll spend two nights on a small boat, we recommend bringing motion sickness support if you’re prone to it (even if you only get mildly queasy).

Travel adapters

Vietnam uses a mix of outlet types (A, C, & F), so it’s best to bring a universal travel adapter to be safe.

Spending money

Vietnam’s currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). In bigger cities, credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and shops, but cash is still very useful, especially for smaller purchases, optional activities, and in more local spots. ATMs are available throughout the trip, so you can withdraw more as you go if needed.

Staying in communication

Before and during the trip, we will keep in communication via WhatsApp. If you don’t have the app downloaded and set up on your phone, please do so as soon as possible. We will utilize the group chat to share itinerary changes/updates, photos, reminders, and more.

Additional trip considerations

Depending on where you’re coming from, the weather in Vietnam may feel hotter and more humid than what you’re used to. We’ll be visiting different regions of the country, so conditions will vary slightly. In November, you can expect temperatures ranging from around 70°F (21°C) with a pleasant breeze to 90°F (32°C), along with humidity and the occasional tropical downpour.

We’ll spend two nights on a small boat. While the water is usually calm, those who are prone to motion sickness may want to bring preventative support, just in case.

Traffic in cities like Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) and Hanoi can feel chaotic, with a constant flow of motorbikes and scooters. When crossing the street, move slowly and confidently — traffic generally flows around pedestrians rather than stopping completely.

A few other helpful considerations:

Flexibility Mindset: Things don’t always run on a strict schedule, and that’s part of the experience. Approaching the trip with patience and flexibility will make everything feel smoother and more enjoyable.
Cash & Payments: Credit cards are accepted at many hotels and larger restaurants, but smaller shops, markets, and cafés often operate on a cash basis. ATMs are widely available, but it’s helpful to carry smaller bills.
Cultural Etiquette: Vietnam is warm and welcoming, but modest dress is appreciated when visiting temples or rural areas. Covering shoulders and knees when appropriate is a sign of respect.
Hydration & Heat: The heat and humidity can be dehydrating, especially during active days. Carrying a reusable water bottle and taking breaks in the shade goes a long way. We also recommend bringing electrolytes.
Street Sounds & Early Mornings: Vietnamese cities are lively — expect early mornings, street vendors, and traffic noise, especially in urban areas. Light sleepers may want to bring earplugs.
Bathrooms & Facilities: Restrooms can vary widely. Carrying tissues and hand sanitizer is a good idea, as they’re not always provided.

Destination Overview

Weather

The best time to visit Vietnam is between November and April. This is when the country experiences the least amount of rain and cooler weather. In November, Vietnam experiences cool and dry weather in the north, while the central and southern regions vary slightly:

Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long Bay): Cool and dry, with temperatures ranging from 15–25°C (59–77°F). Great for outdoor activities and exploring.

Central Vietnam (Hoi An, Da Nang, Hue): Rainy season is coming to an end and temperatures are around 22–28°C (72–82°F).

Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc): Warm and dry, with temperatures between 24–31°C (75–88°F). Great time for beaches and island getaways.

Monsoon season is generally May to September/October.

Food: Is Vietnam vegan-friendly?

Vietnam is quite vegan-friendly, especially in major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Hoi An.

Chay means that you eat vegetarian food in the same way that Vietnamese Buddhists do, but you’ll also need to say what else you don’t eat. “Toi khong an” means “I don’t eat” in Vietnamese, and then add the following words: sua (milk), bo (butter), trung (eggs), nuoc mam (fish sauce), and pho mai (cheese). While Vietnamese dishes do have a lot of meat, most of them can be made without meat.

Be on the lookout for fish sauce & hidden animal products. Many traditional dishes use fish sauce (nuoc mam), shrimp paste, or broth made with meat. Always double-check and say “khong nuoc mam” (no fish sauce).

Can you accommodate allergies?

We can do our best to accommodate allergies, but we don’t visit places that are entirely nut-free, gluten-free, etc., so cross-contamination is always a concern. Please be sure to share any allergies or special requirements during the booking process so we can have a conversation and assess if this trip is right for you.

Tap water

It is generally not safe to drink tap water in Vietnam. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle with filtered water instead. Our guide will periodically provide filtered water and you can always ask them where additional filtered water can be found.

It’s also advisable to avoid ice in drinks from street vendors; look for ice with a hole through the center, it means it was made with factory-filtered ice and is OK to drink. It is also recommended not to consumer peeled from from street vendors.

Cultural differences

Vietnam is warm, welcoming, and full of everyday moments that may feel a little different than home — and that’s part of what makes it such a meaningful place to travel. A few things to keep in mind: dress modestly when visiting temples or religious sites, remove your shoes when required, and approach local customs with curiosity and respect.

Vietnamese culture places a strong emphasis on politeness, harmony, and consideration for others. A calm, friendly attitude goes a long way, especially when things operate differently than you may be used to.

It’s also important to be mindful of conversations around politics and government. Vietnam is a one-party socialist republic, and some locals may not feel comfortable discussing political topics openly, particularly in public settings or if questions could be perceived as critical. This doesn’t reflect a lack of openness or friendliness — it’s simply a matter of cultural and legal context. When in doubt, follow locals’ cues and keep conversations light, respectful, and focused on shared interests like food, daily life, or travel experiences.

Being aware of these nuances helps foster positive interactions and ensures we move through the country with sensitivity and respect.

Tipping

We have included tipping for hotel staff, drivers, and additional guides throughout the trip, but not the group tour leader.

You may consider tipping our tour leader for outstanding service. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however, as a guideline $8 – $10 per person, per day is a good standard.

Additional tipping information:

While tipping isn’t mandatory in Vietnam, leaving 5-10% of the bill at restaurants is becoming more customary. If you’re happy with the services provided by waiters, drivers and other service workers, leaving a small tip is a good way to show your appreciation.

Note: The Vietnamese Dong is made up of bills and no coins. You will often use plastic bills (higher amounts), while paper bills are very low in worth and essentially like coins. When tipping, only leave plastic bills; leaving paper bills can be considered rude.

Wifi and phone access

For the most part, you will have access to wifi throughout the trip and at hotels. It is important to have an international phone plan or pick up a local SIM card at the airport to stay connected when not on wifi. This will ensure we can still contact you no matter where you are.

Traffic & Getting Around

Traffic in Vietnam can feel intense, especially in bigger cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Things move fast, scooters are everywhere, and travel times can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to build in extra time when heading out on your own.

Once the trip begins, all included transportation is arranged for you, so you can relax and focus on the experience rather than logistics.

Grab App in Vietnam

Uber doesn’t exist in Vietnam, they use the Grab App for getting around. We suggest downloading it before you go and setting up a profile. It works great in all of the major cities.

Problems While Traveling & Safety

Emergency contact information

While we always aim to provide the best possible experience, travel can sometimes come with the unexpected. If any issue arises during your trip, it’s important to speak with your group leader or local representative right away. They’re there to help resolve concerns as quickly as possible and ensure your trip stays on track.

We will also provide an emergency number before the trip departs in the event that you run into problems while traveling to Vietnam.

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is highly recommended for all of our trips, and we’re happy to provide you with a recommended company and/or quote. It’s essential to have a policy that provides cancellation, medical, and emergency repatriation coverage.

It’s also best to get the policy after making the deposit, especially if you want coverage for a pre-existing health issue or want to add cancel for any reason coverage. If you decide to forego travel insurance, you will be required to sign a travel insurance waiver that states you’re taking personal responsibility for any costs due to cancellation, trip delay, emergency medical, and repatriation should they arise.

If you need any help with a plan or have questions, please reach out.

Travel advisories

Responsible Travel

Responsible travel is at the heart of everything we do. For us, it means creating experiences that respect local communities, protect wildlife, and honor the cultural traditions of the places we visit — while offering travelers a deeper, more meaningful connection to Vietnam.

In Vietnam, responsible travel begins with supporting local people and small businesses. We prioritize locally owned hotels, restaurants, guides, and experiences, helping ensure that tourism dollars stay within the communities we visit and contribute to long-term economic resilience.

Wildlife welfare is also an important consideration. We do not support activities that exploit animals for entertainment or profit, including performances, captive encounters, or experiences that involve distressing or unnatural animal behavior. Instead, we favor responsible, observation-only experiences and initiatives that focus on conservation, education, and habitat protection.

Respecting Vietnam’s cultural customs and daily life is another key part of traveling responsibly. Vietnam is a diverse country with deep traditions shaped by history, family, and community. When visiting temples, pagodas, and rural areas, modest dress and respectful behavior are expected. Always ask before photographing people, especially in smaller communities, and be mindful that not all places are intended for tourism in the same way.

Responsible travel in Vietnam also means being conscious of how we move through busy cities and shared spaces. Patience, awareness, and flexibility go a long way — whether navigating traffic, markets, or public areas — and help create more positive interactions for both visitors and locals.

By traveling thoughtfully and intentionally, we can help ensure Vietnam remains vibrant, resilient, and welcoming for generations to come — and that our journeys truly give back. Read more about our policies here.

Traveling as a Group

As we journey together, please keep in mind that you’ll be traveling with a diverse group of fellow adventurers from around the world and all walks of life. While you may find common ground on many things, differences in backgrounds, beliefs, and perspectives are natural. We kindly ask that you remain respectful, considerate, and open-minded throughout our time together.

To help ensure a welcoming and inclusive environment, we recommend being mindful of your conversations and avoiding clothing or accessories that are overtly political or could be considered offensive—whether to your fellow travelers or the communities we visit.

Be Mindful of Time

Out of respect for your fellow travelers and to keep our adventures running smoothly, we ask that you arrive on time for all scheduled activities. If you’re asked to be somewhere at a specific time, please make every effort to be punctual so the group isn’t kept waiting.

We’ve found that the most memorable and enjoyable tours are those where the group dynamic is positive and supportive—and that starts with each person doing their part. A little consideration goes a long way in making the experience amazing for everyone.

At Veggies Abroad, we’re committed to creating a safe, respectful, and positive space for everyone—both within our group and in the destinations we explore.