Look up to see our frequently asked questions and answers which might clear your concerns while planning a trip to Vietnam. Tired of reading here or don’t find what you expect, just send us email to info@hvgtravel.com or fill in our contact form to send us your questions. Our consultants are always there to help you.
Yes. Photography in or near military installations, airports or similar locations is prohibited. Anyone caught doing taking photographs in restricted areas will have the film, and possibly the camera or camcorder, confiscated, and may be arrested.
A qualified yes, providing it is less than a hundred years old. However, exporting an artifact that was made within the last century is not straightforward. There are experts on hand at the airport to verify the age of antiques, but the quality of fakes is very high, so anything that looks old is liable to be confiscated.
Yes, you can. And if you wish, you can ask the supplier to send it to your home address.
Yes, there are plenty in cities and large towns, but not in rural areas. Most large hotels have internet access, and Internet cafes are commonplace and cheap.
This is a common query. If you want to show your appreciation to someone in the form of a gift, we will try to suggest something appropriate, and even purchase and deliver it on your behalf, if necessary.
You will be surprised by the warmth of your reception. We Vietnamese live in the present and look forward to the future the war is history. We warmly welcome people from all countries and races.
The law is strict in Vietnam. The use of illegal narcotics is strictly forbidden under any circumstances. Dealers and people caught trafficking, whether Vietnamese or foreigner, face execution. Don’t be tempted to risk it!
Up to a point. A few areas are closed for security reasons, and others require a permit. If you travel with travel agent, they will complete all necessary paperwork and permission procedures on your behalf.
Officially, not without a Vietnamese license. An international license is not acceptable as a substitute. The police generally turn a blind eye to foreigners, but not always!
Yes, easily. However, few come with official papers, which can result in an on-the-spot fine. As they are not insured, you will be liable to pay for any damage or theft.
The short answer is no! 80% of the 20,000 or so serious traffic accidents per year in Vietnam are caused by, or involve, motorcyclists. Roads are bad, and regulations are often ignored.
Not easily. An international driving license can be converted, but the document must be translated and notarized, a protracted procedure.
Yes, but it gets more difficult the further you are from the cities. Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and other centres have ATMs that accept the main cards, but only dispense local currency. Be warned that all credit card transactions in Vietnam are subject to a 3% surcharge.
Yes, but only in a few places. In cities, large hotels, international restaurants and some souvenir shops take Visa, MasterCard, AMEX.., but it is not wise to rely upon it as a method of payment.
Travellers cheques and cash in any international currency can be changed at all major banks. Some hotels will accept travellers cheques too.
All credit card transactions in Vietnam are subject to a surcharge. Charges for other transactions vary: we will supply full details on request. There is no commission on exchanging ‘hard’ currency.
At the airport, in banks, or in shops licensed to sell gold – exchange rates are very similar. Steer clear of street money changers – the exchange rate will be no better, and being given forged notes is a risk.
You can change local currency back to the currency you entered with by showing the yellow customs slip that you were given on arrival. The amount you take out must be less than the original amount you brought in.
Vietnam is both hot and humid. Combined, they make visitors from temperate countries sweat profusely. Drinking plenty of water and good sun protection is essential. Winter in Hanoi (January to March) and the rest of the northern area can be be cold. The chilling effect is made worse by a damp, clammy atmosphere.
Not much, really. A stop-over en-route, or a rest day on arrival helps. It’s important to try to sleep and wake according to local time, even on the aeroplane.
No problem. You can ask the hotels and restaurants that provide food as you like. They will be willing to make it for you.
Despite being a Buddhist country, Vietnam is short of vegetarian restaurants. However, there are a few in the larger cities, and it’s quite easy to find good vegetable meals. The fruit is excellent!
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