Mesmerising Vietnam 5N-6D International Customized Tour Package With Optional Flight

Overview

Best Time to Visit Vietnam

Though perfect for tourism around the year, there are a lot of things one must learn when scheduling their Vietnam trip. There’s no such best time to visit Vietnam as per season because each part of the region may not offer the same tourism experience that you are looking for in a particular period. When it comes to Vietnam tourism, it can be distinguished into three sections, the North, Central and South. Here is the best time to visit each of these regions within the country;

North Vietnam

Places like Cuc Phuong, Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Mai Chau and Halong Bay comprise North Vietnam. The North Vietnam best time to visit period is in two phases, one from March to May and the other from September to November. The first period marks the Spring season when places in North Vietnam experience the most ideal weather conditions. The days remain warm and clear, offering the best opportunities for outdoor tourist activities. As May ends, the temperature rises by a lot, along with high humidity. It is not until September that the temperature starts to cool down, once again becoming favourable for Vietnam sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Central Vietnam

The places that comprise Central Vietnam are Hue, Danang, Hoi An, Nha Trang and Quy Nhon. The best season to visit Vietnam for touring its central region is between the months of January to June. The first half of this period, i.e., January to mid-March, sees a cooler and more pleasant temperature. Whereas, you can expect to see a subtle rise in temperature and humidity from April to June. It is also the time when the region experiences occasional rain showers and typhoons. Regardless, the early and mid-portion of this period is perfect for beachside vacations and outdoor adventure activities. And if you want to witness the natural beauty of this region, the latter part of this period is ideal for it. Make sure to carry rain gear and check the daily weather forecast before going out during these months.

South Vietnam

Places like Ho Chi Minh City, Phan Thiet and Mui Ne, Phu Quoc and Con Dao and Ho Tran and Long Hai comprise South Vietnam. You can visit this region at any time of the year as it experiences the least change in climate. However, the period between December and April is considered the most suitable time to visit the south. Tons of renowned events and festivals take place during this time, and the weather conditions are perfect for sightseeing, exploration and participating in outdoor tourist activities. The region stays dry between January to April, and you can expect to see rain between June to November.

Average Climate in Vietnam

Vietnam has both a tropical climate zone and a temperate climate zone, with all of the country experiencing the effects of the annual monsoon. Rainy seasons correspond to monsoon circulations, which bring heavy rainfall in the north and south from May to October, and in the central regions from September to January.

How to reach Vietnam?

Choosing the right mode of transport is one of the prime aspects of setting up a Vietnam trip. Here are some of the best ways you can choose to travel to this country;

By Air

One of the most common ways to travel to Vietnam is by air. It may be a bit expensive, but considering the overall travel time and comfort of the journey, it is no doubt the best option you can go for. There are currently five international airports serving the country, making it easily accessible to the rest of the world. Their names are Noi Bai International Aiport (Hanoi), Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City), Phu Quoc International Airport (Phu Quoc Island), Dananga International Airport (Da Nang) and Cam Ranh International Airport (Nha Trang). You can easily find daily flights to one of these airports in Vietnam from major cities in India. For example, a direct flight from New Delhi to Ho Chi Minh City by VietJet Air can take around 5 hours to complete. Once at the airport, you can continue your Vietnam tour by road by local transport. You can find affordable Vietnam tour packages with flights on our website.

Other ways

The only logical way to travel to Vietnam from India is via flight. The other options to travel to this country may not be ideal for most interested travellers. For instance, if you want to travel to Vietnam by road, you will have to pass through several Indochina countries and produce several documents, which is a very stressful process. Besides, the only way to travel to Vietnam by bus is from Laos and Cambodia. As for travelling by rail, one can reach Vietnam only from Beijing and Nanning from China. In terms of travelling by water, you can reach Vietnam by ferry or cruise from Cambodia through the Mekong Delta.

Best Tourist Places to Visit in Vietnam

Vietnam is a splendid country lying in the southeast of Asia, well acknowledged only by determined travelers. Offering enriching cultural experiences, Vietnam is truly a gem as it holds a long list of places that you must definitely explore. From undertaking historical tours, and visiting beaches to exploring the mountain ranges, Vietnam has got it all. Here is a list of destinations you must definitely explore on your Vietnam trips. Besides, do not forget to add them to your long list of must-visit attractions and Vietnam tour packages.

• Sapa is a marvelous mountainous town located in the northwestern region of Vietnam. Covered with green fields holding colorful flowers, Sapa is a breathtakingly amazing destination. Trekking trips to Sapa are the most popular.
• Ha Long Bay experiences the most tourist footfalls. Ha Long Bay stands out as one of the best places to visit in Vietnam. It is also home to a wide range of exotic beaches.
• Ho Chi Minh City is the most prominent city in Vietnam that is often featured in the Vietnam packages. This city keeps buzzing with energy and offers you exciting experiences. Holding the finest hotels, spiritual temples, and huge splendid malls, Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit place in Vietnam.
• Hoi An City is profoundly known for its interesting traditional culture, and historical architecture. It is truly a splendid destination to explore! Another famous attraction of Hoi An City is its delicious food, be sure you do not miss out on savoring them. The cuisine is diverse ranging from pancakes, beef noodle salad, classic pho, spring rolls, and much more!
• Hue is located in the center of Vietnam and tops the tourist destination list. Beautifully situated at the bank of Perfume River, it is a fascinating place holding splendid beauty you must witness.

Below are the best places to visit in Vietnam.

From experiencing bustling city life to spending a few days in the countryside, there are a lot of places you can visit in Vietnam during your tour. Here are the most popular tourist locations in the country that you can find in many Vietnam tour packages;

• Ho Chi Minh City
• Hue
• Halong Bay
• Hoi An
• Hanoi
• Nha Trang

Beaches to visit in Vietnam

City Beach

Located in Nha Trang, City Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Vietnam. The beautiful blue seawater, bordered by golden sand and tall buildings, offers a unique look to this place. The charming ambience of the City Beach has also been a major crowd-puller in the city. You can easily add this location to your preferred Vietnam trip package if you are interested in spending some peaceful time by the beachside with your family. The City Beach is a common inclusion in several Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days tour packages.

An Bang Beach

An Bang Beach is considered one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam for tourists. Located in Hoi An, the majestic scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere of this beach have made it a popular attraction among both locals and tourists. It is also one of the best places in Central Vietnam where you can enjoy sunbathing and delicious seafood by the pristine beachside.

An Hai Beach

The An Hai Beach on Con Dao Island is a fascinating beach that you can visit during your holiday to Vietnam. The vast stretch of white sand, slanting palm trees, lush greenery, towering hills, and turquoise seawater create a majestic sight that one can hardly explain in words. It is a great location that you can add to your Vietnam itinerary if you are looking for a unique beachside vacation.

Temples to Visit in Vietnam

Cao Dai Temple

The Cao Dai Temple in Long Hoa Village is one of the most well-known Vietnam best places to visit for spiritual tours. The shrine is associated with Caodaism, which believes in and combines various aspects of different religions into a monotheistic faith. The beautiful temple architecture and daily worshipping ceremonies at the temple attract hundreds of visitors around the year. You can definitely add this site to your Vietnam trip package if you are interested in learning more about the local culture and traditions. Here is a Vietnam package tour 7 days that you can consider.

Tran Quoc Pagoda

Popularly known as one of the oldest temples in the city of Hanoi, the Tran Quoc Pagoda is among the best places to see in Vietnam for spiritual tours. Standing at a height of 15 metres with 11 distinguished levels, the initial roots of this temple date back to the 6th century. Surrounding the Tran Quoc Pagoda, you can find an incense-burning house, some carved statues and a museum holding several historical exhibits and relics. You can find this site under standard sightseeing in most Vietnam travel packages.

Mariamman Hindu Temple

The Mariamman Hindu Temple, also called Chua Ba Mariamman, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vietnam. Located just 10 km from the centre of Ho Chi Minh City, the temple sees a massive influx of tourists every year, thanks to its religious significance and gorgeous architecture. During your visit, make sure to witness the beautifully carved statues and sculptures of Laksmi, Ganesha, Muruga, Mariamman, etc., within the temple.

Famous nightlife places in Vietnam

Sunset Bar

If you are staying in Hanoi, make sure to visit Sunset Bar for a great nightlife experience in Vietnam. The place is known for offering some of the best views of the skyline and West Lake. In addition, the soothing yet cheerful ambience, fun-loving crowd, spacious wooden deck and plush daybeds make the place a must-visit. During your visit, make sure to try their extensive range of cocktails.

Chill Sky Bar

During your visit to Ho Chi Minh City, consider visiting the renowned Chill Sky Bar. Located on the 25th floor of AB Tower in District 1, it is one of the best places in Vietnam where you can experience its vibrant nightlife. You can find an array of like-minded party-loving people, crowding this bar every evening. The pristine dance floor, neon lighting, and upbeat music of the place create a beautiful party atmosphere that you simply can’t miss out on.

Sailing Club Nha Trang

If you are staying in Nha Trang and looking to meet new people and spend a memorable evening during your Vietnam trip, consider checking out the Sailing Club. It is a lavish restaurant during the day and serves as a charming nightclub as soon as the night sets in. Both locals and tourists visit this place to experience the exuberant nightlife in the city.

Things to do in Vietnam

Vietnam welcomes nature seekers and adventure enthusiasts with open arms. Holding never-ending options of adventures here is a list of things to do in Vietnam to explore the utmost beauty of this place. Vietnam packages by SOTC ensure you indulge in the below-mentioned activities and more while on your Vietnam trips.

• Cruise the Mekong Delta
• Visiting the Temple of Literature
• Snorkeling on Cham Island
• Crawl through the Cu Chi Tunnel Network

Cruise the Mekong Delta

The wooden classic-style cruises in the Mekong Delta are a one-of-a-kind experience that any of us would love. If you want breathtaking views, you can choose private cabins. This is certainly one of the best experiences that you can have in Vietnam. Even if you do not find this in the Vietnam tour packages, make sure you get this included in your Vietnam trip package.

Visiting the Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature was founded in 1070 by Emperor Le Thanh Tong. It was a university that was dedicated to the Chinese philosopher, Confucius. Six years later, it was converted into an academic school. This is a great place to be covered during the Vietnam trips. The tranquillity and beauty of this place make visiting it worth it. Also, it is a must-visit tourist attraction for individuals who want to learn more about traditional Vietnamese architecture, literature and education.

Located at: 58 P. Quoc Tu Giam, Van Mieu, Dong Da, Ha Noi, Vietnam

Timing: Mon-Sun 8 am to 5 pm

Snorkeling on Cham Island

You can add a bit of adventure to your trip by choosing the snorkeling option on Cham Island. While opting for Vietnam packages from India, you can check if this option is included in it or not.

Located at: Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province, Cu Lao Cham (Cham Islands)

Timing: Mon-Sun 8 am to 1 pm

Crawl through the Cu Chi Tunnel Network

Cu Chi Tunnel Network has gained popularity for the underground tunnel network which was constructed in 1940 during the French and American War. This 250-kilometre-long extensive network of tunnels was created for the purpose of communication during wartime. There are hidden routes and doors that are trapped so that one could escape to the rivers and canals nearby. You can take guided tours of this tunnel or explore it yourself to catch a vivid glimpse into the history of the region. Make sure to add this site when setting up your Vietnam tour places to visit list.

Located at: Cu Chi District of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam

Timing: Mon-Sun 7 am to 5 pm

Adventure activities to do in Vietnam

Snorkelling

One of the main adventure activities that individuals consider during their Vietnam trip is snorkelling. It allows visitors to witness the beautiful coral reefs and marine life around the region. Snorkelling is a great alternative to scuba diving, especially if you are looking to ditch heavy scuba gear. Some of the best Vietnam tourist places where you can try this activity are Hoi An, Nha Trang, Ha Long Bay and Con Dao Islands.

Kayaking

Kayaking is one of the most iconic things to do Vietnam activities that you can try if you are interested in a slow-paced adventure. Paddling through the serene water while soaking in the gorgeous views of the surrounding natural landmarks is truly an experience of a lifetime. In case you don’t find this activity included in the Vietnam holiday packages from India, make sure to check it out on your own. Halong Bay, Nho Que River and Con Dai Islands are some of the best Vietnam tourist places for Kayaking.

River rafting

If you want to take your adventure activity experience to the next level, make sure to try river rafting in Vietnam. It is a thrilling group adventure that is meant to get your adrenaline rushing. The best Vietnam places to visit for experiencing this challenging activity are Da Lat, Cao Bang and Phong Nha Ke National Park.

Rock climbing

Rock climbing is one of the most popular land adventures that you can try in Vietnam. Climbing the steep rock structures and witnessing the beauty from its top makes it a highly rewarding adventure that you can look forward to. While doing this extreme sport, you don’t have to worry about safety as all safety precautions and measures are followed properly. Some of the best Vietnam places for rock climbing are Ha Long Bay, Cat Ba Island and Huu Lung.

Foods to Eat in Vietnam

When visiting Vietnam, make sure to try their delicious range of local dishes. Here are some of the best foods in Vietnam that will make your trip satiating.

• Mi Quang
• Pho
• Goi Cuon
• Bun Cha

Mi Quang

A very popular dish of the Quang Nam Province in central Vietnam, Mì Quang is a mix of peanuts, noodles, rice crackers, pork, and a turmeric broth. It is mostly served on important occasions. If you do not find this included in the Vietnam tour packages, you can request the same.

Pho

Trying Pho during your visit is one of the best things to do in Vietnam. This is perhaps one of the most common dishes in the country. It is light on the stomach and can be well-digested. You might even find it featured in the Vietnam packages from India. Pho is basically a noodle dish, made with flat rice noodles and meat. The best part about Pho is its aromatic broth, which is prepared using fragrant star anise, cinnamon, clove, and some other local spices.

Goi Cuon

While touring across the country, if you ever feel like snacking, you can grab Goi Cuon and satiate your hunger pangs. Vermicelli, pork, shrimp, and healthy greens are wrapped in rice paper to make it a healthy snack option. Also, it is easily available. Therefore, while checking the Vietnam trip cost from India, make sure you try to find this also in the packages.

Bun Cha

If you want to know what Hanoi cuisine tastes like, you can start with Bun Cha. It is made using ingredients like grilled pork, rice vermicelli, and fish sauce along with herbs that are good for health. You can have it any time of the day. There is a major chance of this dish being featured in the Vietnam packages.

White Rose Dumplings

Just as the name suggests, Banh Bao Banh Vac or White Rose Dumplings is one of the most popular dishes in Vietnam. It is a must-try if you are looking for a unique and delicious dish during your Hoi An trip. White Rose Dumplings are made using a white dough that is filled with minced pork or shrimp. The dish gets its name from the wrapper that resembles the shape of a rose.

Vietnam Local Cuisines:

Vietnamese cuisine encompasses the foods and beverages of Vietnam. Meals feature a combination of five fundamental tastes : sweet, salty, bitter, sour, and spicy. It is a mixture of the quintessence of original Vietnamese cuisine, Chinese cuisine, Khmer cuisine, Thai cuisine, and French cuisine

Here are few must-try Vietnamese dishes

• Beef Noodle Soup
• Hot Pot
• Gua bao, or the Taiwanese Hamburger
• Zong Zi: Sticky Rice Dumpling
• Taiwanese Fried Chicken
• Braised Pork Rice
• Oyster Vermicelli Noodles
• Scallion Pancake

Best Restaurants in Vietnam

One of the important parts of visiting any foreign country is experiencing the local food. Vietnam offers visitors a unique culinary experience with its indigenous ingredients, unique recipes, and otherworldly flavors. Let us explore some of the best restaurants in Vietnam to experience Vietnamese cooking at its finest.

• Cha Ca La Vong, Hanoi
• Vietnam House, Ho Chi Minh City
• The Deck Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City
• Dalchini, Hanoi

Cha Ca La Vong, Hanoi

Cha Ca La Vong is one of the most popular restaurants in Hanoi and it is named after the Vietnamese food of the same name. If you are taking one of the Vietnam packages that include a visit to Hanoi, then this restaurant is one of the must-visit places. Beware though that the restaurant only makes one dish that is synonymous with its name, that is what makes dining here a unique experience.

Located at: 107 P. Nguyen Truong To, Quan Thanh, Ba Dinh, Ha Noi, Vietnam

Vietnam House, Ho Chi Minh City

Vietnam House, located in Ho Chi Minh City, needs no introduction, thanks to it having outstanding food at affordable prices. Many Vietnam tour packages from India include Ho Chi Minh City and that is why this restaurant is your go-to place for tasting the best Vietnam cuisine at its best. Apart from the regular Vietnamese dishes, you can also find great choices for gluten-free and vegan food.

Located at: 93-95-97 D. Dong Khoi, P, Quan 1, Thanh pho Ho Chi Minh 700000, Vietnam

The Deck Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City

No Vietnam tour can be termed complete without dropping by this restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City. Known for its sophisticated interior decor and riverfront view, the Deck Saigon serves an array of Asian fusion dishes that you can try during your visit. Make sure to also order from their cocktails and mixed drinks menu.

Located at: 38 Nguyen u Di, Thao Dien, Quan 2, Thanh pho Ho Chi Minh 10000, Vietnam

Dalcheeni, Hanoi

If you have decided to take one of the Vietnam packages from India and want to taste Indian food in Vietnam, then Dalcheeni located in Hanoi city is a great option. Along with the finest curries and kebabs, you can also delight in tasting Biryani and bread. It is considered amongst the best Indian restaurants in Vietnam.

Located at: 100 D. Xuan Dieu, Tu Lien, Tay Ho, Ha Noi 100000, Vietnam

Ideal Places for a Honeymoon in Vietnam

Taking a Vietnam honeymoon package has come up as one of the popular options for newlyweds looking for adventurous and unique experiences on their honeymoon. If you too are looking forward to getting to know your partner better and spending some time making beautiful memories then a Vietnam honeymoon package might just be the right choice for you. You can enjoy the warm hospitality, delectable cuisine, mesmerizing sights, and gorgeous nightlife. Here are some of the best Vietnam destinations for honeymooners;

• SaPa
• Con Dao
• Phu Quoc
• Mui Ne
• Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park

SaPa

The SaPa Valley is undoubtedly one of the most romantic Vietnam tour places that you can look forward to in a Vietnam honeymoon package. Located at an elevation of 1,500 metres, this small town overlooks the majestic terraced rice fields of the Muong Hoa Valley. During your visit to Sa Pa, you can go on the Fansipan Cable Car ride, spend some time at the Sunworld Fansipan Legend, indulge in some trekking activities, take a tour of the Cat Cat Village, enjoy boating in the Sapa Lake, etc., with your loved one.

Con Dao

No Vietnam honeymoon package that features Con Dao can be considered unromantic. Thanks to the pristine, serene water of the South China Sea. If you and your partner have an affinity for beaches and the open sea, then the Con Dao archipelago consisting of 16 beautiful islands should be your choice. If you are looking for a long honeymoon, consider adding Con Dao to your choice of a Vietnam Itinerary 10 days package.

Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc Island is one of the most popular Vietnam tour places for honeymooners. It is the biggest island in the country, known for its pristine white sand beaches and lush greenery. You can find this location included in various Vietnam honeymoon tour packages. Some of the fun things you can do in Phu Quoc Island with your spouse include going on the Vinpearl Safari, taking a ride on the Hon Thom Cable Car, spending some time by the Sao Beach, paying your respects at the Cao Dai Temple, going on scuba diving adventures, etc.

Mui Ne

Once a quiet fishing village, Mui Ne looks like a place from a different world. If you wish to spend some time with your partner at a beach that overlooks a desert-like appearance, then Mui Ne is the right place to look for in the Vietnam travel packages. Also, it is popularly referred to as one of the most romantic destinations in Vietnam for couples.

Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park

For couples who are looking to add an adventurous theme to their honeymoon,  visiting Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park is just the right thing to do. The picturesque location has sprawled greenery of the tropical forest along with majestic mountains making this national park a hot favourite in Vietnam travel packages.

Best Places for Shopping in Vietnam

Shopaholics will love shopping in Vietnam as it is profoundly known as a shopper’s paradise. From street shopping to splurging at high-end malls there is a variant thrill when it comes to shopping in Vietnam. It is difficult to return from your Vietnam tour without picking up a few handicrafts and souvenirs. A huge variety of interesting articles are displayed in the markets of Vietnam like jewelry, textiles, and wood carvings. Your Vietnam tour packages from SOTC ensure you not only explore this country but also ensure you carry souvenirs for your friends and family. Do make it a point to visit these top shopping markets for memorable Vietnam tours.

As a general rule of thumb, the more luxurious and verifiable the item, the less you’ll save in Vietnam. If you go to a high-end retailer, the prices will look similar to London or Paris or Milan. The real savings come from shopping at local markets and boutique shops.

During your visit to this country, don’t forget to go for the traditional Vietnam shopping experience. Here are some of the best places for shopping in the country;

• Hoi An Central Market
• Da Lat Night Market
• Street Night Market

Hoi An Central Market

This is one of the oldest markets in Vietnam where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and even tangy spices. Besides buying souvenirs from here, you can also try some mouthwatering street food at this location. Your Vietnam tour cost from India will be worth it if you visit this market.

Located at: 19 Tran Phu, Cam Chau, Hoi An, Quang Nam, Vietnam

Timing: Mon-Sun 6 am – 8 pm

Da Lat Night Market

The market dazzles at night. You can buy various types of souvenirs from this market. Also, you can dig into various Vietnamese foods here that are worth trying. Going for Vietnam tour packages from India won’t make a lot of sense if you do not include this place in your Vietnam itinerary.

Located at: 6b Duong Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, Phuong 1, Thanh pho Da Lat, Lam Dong 690000, Vietnam

Timing: Mon-Sun 5 pm – 12 am

Street Night Market

The shopaholic in you will be the happiest when you visit the Street Night Market in Vietnam. From clothes to footwear, souvenirs to food, you can find a wide variety of things to buy in this market. You can even find this market featured in the Vietnam trip package that you have bought. Find more info on ultimate guide to shopping in Vietnam.

Vincom Centre : This center is a colonial building that is known as the largest centers for shopping in Ho Chi Minh. This luxurious center has around 250 shops spread across the building.Takashimaya Ho Chi Minh City The Japanese store chain, Takashimaya, opened in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and has been a favourite place for shopping in Vietnam and also Ho Chi Minh City.

Saigon Centre : Saigon Centre is the crown jewel of shopping in Ho Chi Minh City. Saigon Centre has become immensely popular as amongst the upper-middle class as a destination for shopping in Vietnam. It’s a great location to buy electronics and apparels, hosting brands such as Bambou Company, Gingko T-Shirts and Dogma.

Vincom Center on Ba Trieu street: This is a good default for an in-and-out shopping operation. They’ve got all the standard international brands on offer, and the mall is easy to navigate.

Vincom Mega Mall Royal City offers many of the same options, plus much more on the entertainment spectrum. In addition to 800 shops, Royal City also features a massive rainforest-themed indoor water park (the largest in all of Southeast Asia) as well as an ice skating rink, an aquarium, and a cinema.

The Vincom Mega Mall is part of the Royal City complex, designed to function as a “miniature Western city” and absolutely earns its slogan: “one destination – all needs – many options.”

Art and Culture in Vietnam

If you are interested in the art and culture of Vietnam, make sure to check out the historic cities, ancient buildings, religious shrines, local handicraft markets, traditional theatres, regional events, etc., in the country. Here are some things you can do to find out more about the local art and culture of Vietnam;

Take a tour of the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

There are around 54 officially recognised ethnic groups in Vietnam, and you can learn more about their traditions and culture by taking a tour of the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. Covering an area of around 43,799 square metres, the building houses over 30,000 exhibits on display, most of which are historical artworks. It is located in Ha Noi, and you can easily add it to your trip itinerary in your customisable Vietnam vacation package.

Attend the Hung King Temple Festival

One of the best ways to learn about the local culture of Vietnam is by attending the Hung King Temple Festival. It is observed across all the Hung King Temples in the country in the month of April. The festival is celebrated in honour of King Duong Vuong and is marked by grand ceremonies, long rituals, morning flower ceremonies, foot procession, classical song performances, etc. This festival will be able to show you an important part of the regional culture.

Visit the Fine Arts Museum of Ho Chi Minh City

Visiting the Fine Arts Museum is one of the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City, especially if you share an interest in local art. The museum houses 16 showrooms across its three-floor setting, with the first floor featuring exhibitions, rotating galleries and activities. The second floor houses a wide selection of fine art, which includes paintings and other works dating back centuries ago. The third floor is where you will find historical handicrafts and art of the region. It should be a must-include site in every Vietnam trip package.

Body treatments and massages in Vietnam

When visiting Vietnam, make sure to spare an hour or two at one of the luxurious body treatments and massage centres in the region. Here are some of the best places in the country where you can enjoy these services;

Massage Co Phong

Located in Ho Chi Minh City, Massage Co Phong is one of the most popular body treatment and massage centres in Vietnam. Known for its traditional Vietnamese massage therapy, peaceful ambience and affordable pricing, make sure to drop by this place after a long day of exploration and sightseeing. This spa stays open from 10:00 to 22:30, and some of their most popular services are Chinese nourishing shampoo and deep tissue massage.

Sen Tai Thu Massage

With several branches across Vietnam, the Sen Tai Thu Massage Centre is one of the best places you can visit to get a relaxing massage experience. You can visit one of their most popular branches at the Hanoi Old Quarter and enjoy a therapeutic session of body treatment and massage therapy. It stays open from 09:00 to 22:00 and offers an array of treatments and services, such as hot stone massages, Vietnamese-style massage, aromatherapy, etc. Getting a spa and massage therapy is one of the best things to do in Hanoi.

Huong Sen Healthcare

Another great place that you can visit to unwind and relieve your body and mind from stress is Huong Sen Healthcare. You can find this spa in both Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, offering an array of treatments and services at attractive prices. During your visit, make sure to try the head massage, foot and body massage and herbal massage treatments. The place stays open from 09:00 to 22:30.

Interesting facts about Vietnam

Here are some lesser-known facts about Vietnam that you may find interesting;

• Throughout the trip, you will find several influences of European and Chinese culture in the local culture, art and politics of Vietnam.
• In Vietnam, a tortoise is considered to be a symbol of luck.
• Vietnam has a total of 50 national musical instruments. Make sure to check out the local folk songs across its several regions when visiting the country.
• Prior to visiting Vietnam, tourists should know that offering someone yellow flowers, a handkerchief or anything black as a gift is considered a sign of bad luck.
• Vietnam is home to 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites that either fall under the category of cultural or both cultural and natural sites.
• The renowned Long Bien Bridge in Vietnam was designed by Gustave Eiffel, the same architect who designed the world-famous Eiffel Tower.
• Ao Dai, a type of long gown with a slit on each side, is the national costume of Vietnam.
• Vietnam is the world’s 14th largest & safest country
• Motorbikes rule in Vietnam
• Vietnam is home to the largest cave in the world, paradise of tropical fruits, nation of rivers
• Vietnam is the world’s second largest coffee exporter, one of the leading exporter for exporter of cashews and black peppers
• Nguyen is the most common surname in Vietnam
• Rice is the main dish of every meal

Vietnam Languages Spoken

Vietnamese: The official language of the country and is spoken by the majority of the population. Chinese is the second most commonly spoken language however French & English is widely spoken across the country

• Hello = Xin Chao (Sin chow)
• How are you? = Ban Khoe Khong (Ban Kwe Khom)
• What is your name? = Ten ban la gi?  (Ten bang la zi)
• Thank you = Cam on (kahm uhn)
• Sorry = Xin Loi (Sin Loy)
• No Problem = Khong co gi (Khong koh zi)
• Goodbye = Tam Biet (Tarm Byeet)
• Can you speak English? = Ban noi tieng anh duoc khong? (Banh noi thien an durkh khom)

Vietnam Local Cabs App

• Grab
• Gojek
• Green SM Taxi
• Go-Viet

Vietnam visa for Indians

In order to visit Vietnam for a trip, Indian nationals are required to have a valid tourist visa to enter the country. As of now, Indians are eligible to apply for a visa on arrival, which has a validity of 30 days and is perfect for more Vietnam tourism needs. But before moving on with the procedure, here are the documents that are required to apply for a Vietnam tourist visa;

• Passport front & back page color scan in JPEG format with a validity of 6 months from the date of return
• A couple of passport-sized photographs
• Duly filled and signed Vietnam tourist visa application form
• Proof of bank statements for the last 3 months
• Proof of visa fees
• Visa approval letter issued by the Immigration Department of Vietnam
• Proof of return flight tickets
• Additional documentation (if needed)

You can apply for a Vietnam tourist visa either online or by visiting the Vietnamese Embassy. In both cases, you will need to fill up the application properly, provide the necessary documentation and pay the required fee. After the application process, you will receive your visa-on-arrival approval letter, which you can show at any of the international airports in the country upon entry. After this, you will receive your Vietnam tourist visa on arrival and enter the country for tourism.

Foreign currency for Vietnam visit

It is advised that you acquire sufficient local Vietnam currency before your journey starts. It will allow you to spend and pay for transfers, hotels and other services in the country without any issues. The official Vietnam currency name is the Vietnamese Dong (Code: VND). You can easily convert and acquire Vietnam currency to INR by using the online forex services by SOTC. As the Vietnamese Dong to INR exchange value is subject to change, make sure to check it yourself before buying forex. As of 9th July 2023, 1 INR to Vietnam currency is 286.27 VND.  This means INR to Vietnam currency exchange value is 0.0035 INR equals 1 Vietnamese dong.

Visa Process Information for Vietnam

For Vietnam trips from India, you can have a visa on arrival. However, for the same, you have to visit the Vietnamese government visa website and complete the online visa application form. The next step will be obtaining the visa-on-arrival approval letter. After showing the letter at the airport, you can receive the visa.