Vietnam today is a top tourist destination, drawing an ever increasing number of visitors each year. Although the country opened up to tourism during the mid 1990s, it is only now that infrastructure and related facilities are gradually improving for the millions of tourists visiting each year. All major cities offer accommodations ranging from backpacker hostels to five-star hotels. Most towns and cities also have a range of restaurant catering to varying tastes and budgets. Almost the entire coastline is now open to tourist development and new resorts continue to crop up all the time. The white sand beaches and the spetacular coral reefs add to the beauty. Remote areas such as the northern mountains are still relatively undeveloped – a virtue perhaps – but not too difficult to access given the proliferation of travel agencies in most cities. Green Palm Travel is one of reliable private tour operator specializes in arranging organized trips in most parts of Vietnam – a scenic and beautiful country. GreenPalmTravel's goal is to deliver comprehensive, up to date information on traveling and living in Vietnam. Keep coming back to stay informed about current Vietnam travel and living related issues and site updates.

WHEN TO GO?

The temperature and rainfall patterns in Vietnam fluctuate widely from region to region. Hence, visitors should make their itineraries according to area they plan to visit, taking care to avoid the worst of the moonson. The south gets its heaviest rainfall between May and November, while in the north, May to August are the wettest months. However, as these rainy months are in the off season, it can work out much cheaper to visit. Bear in mind it can be uncomfortable and inconvenient due to flooding and low visibility.

If you want to participate in major holidays such as Tet, the period from December to February is best, although prices are higher. For better weather and fewer crowds, the period from March to May is the best time to visit.

WHAT TO TAKE

There is very little that cannot be bought in Vietnam’s towns and cities, and at cheapest rates than backhome. Villages and more remote areas are not likely to offers the same range of option though. In general, it is advisable to wear a wide brimmed hat and carry lots of sunblock, while a collapsible umbrella is a must for rainy months. It is also a good to keep a Swiss army knife, a torch and batteries, and a mosquito repellent handy.

The best clothing for the south’s warm, tropical climate is pale, light weight colored cotton or silk. Shoes should be light in weight as you probably need to walk a lot. In the north, especially in the highlands, nights are cold and day temperatures can fall quite low. Travelers should wear layers to trap body heat in order to keep warm.

ADVANCE BOOKING

The peak flying season to Vietnam is from December to February. During this time, thousands of Viet Kieu or overseas Vietnamese flock back to their homeland to spend Christmas and Tet with their families. Make reservations for this period at least three months in advance. Some travelers avoid this crush by entering overland from either Laos or Cambodia, but most countries in Southeast Asia experience the same holiday rush. Chosing a reliable tour operator should also be taken care of while booking. It is also wise to book your accommodation well in advance during this period, especially if you plan to stay in a high-end hotel. However, budget accommodations usually present no problem.

VISA AND PASSPORTS

Most travelers to Vietnam must possess a valid passport and visa, whether entering by air, land or sea. At present, only holders of Cambodian and Malaysian passports may be assured of entry without a visa. Visas to Vietnam are issued only by Vietnamese embassies and can be applied for directly or through Vietnam Visa Service offered by our company. A standard tourist visa is valid only 30 days but can be extended for another 30. A business visa can be issued for up to six months. A multiple-entry visa, for both tourist and business purposes, can usually be applied for at an extra cost.

CUSTOMS INFORMATION

Once attended by much red tape and strictness, customs regulations are now fairly straightforward in Vietnam. Visitors are allowed to bring in one liter of alcoholic beverages and 200 cigarettes with them. Any foreign currency equivalent to or more than US 3,000 must be declared.

Upon arrival, a customs form has to be filled in, a yellow copy of which will be handed back to you. Ensure you keep this form safe, since it must be presented to the authorities upon leaving the country.