A. Vietnam is 7 hours ahead of London, UK, 12 hours ahead of New York, US and 3 hours behind Sydney, Australia.
Culture shock:
Q. Will I experience a major culture shock?
A. Before travelling to Vietnam it is worth the effort to learn the basics of the local culture to avoid any misunderstandings with the locals.
Here are a few things to consider:
At Temples and other religious sites – Conservative dress and shoes removed should be standard practice when visiting a religious structure, such as a Buddhist pagoda. It is seen as impolite to sit in a temple or elsewhere with your back towards a Buddha statue. Also, make sure to get permission before taking photos of the place of worship or local people in attendance.
Dress code – Local dress codes should be respected. This can include tops that cover the shoulder area and shorts to the knees, which is especially important on a visit to religious sites. Additionally, if planning to enter the house of a local make sure to remove your shoes.
Meet and greet – The most typical method to meet and greet is with shaking hands much like the Western custom. Also, the traditional Vietnamese method is still present and based on pressing the hands together and positioning in front of the body while also giving a slight bow.
Foods:
Q. What is the food like in Vietnam?
A. Vietnam's food reflects its period of French colonization, climate and geography. Rice is a typical staple of many dishes, including a variety of noodle and cake dishes. The basic ingredients for most dishes have a combination of meats (fish, prawn, chicken, beef, pork, etc.), herbs (kefir, lime, lemon grass, etc.) and vegetables. Additionally, many dishes are served with a dipping sauce or flavouring, such as soy sauce and fish sauce.
The street food scene is very affordable and it benefits to eat out and enjoy the local dishes in Vietnam. Also, the restaurants are great for the affordable Vietnamese dishes.
A few of the local specialities include Egg coffee (coffee with egg), Pho (the most popular Vietnamese soup), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), Bun Cha (soup with meat, noodles and vegetables).
Luggage:
Q. What type of clothes should I pack?
A. Basically, the preferred clothing choice for the warmest month are likely to include synthetic or light cotton trousers, shorts, or tops that will quickly dry. Additionally, on visits to religious temples or monuments, there is a need to cover up so it helps to pack a shawl or scarf for the shoulders and head area.
Q. Is there a suggested limit on the amount of luggage?
A. While a commercial airline will likely accept a higher limit, an ideal volume of luggage is in the region of 20 kg. Packing light will make your travel experience more enjoyable, especially if constantly travelling on the Vietnam tour. Also, the lighter load will leave space for souvenirs for friends and family.
Q. What is the electrical current in Vietnam?
A. The electrical outlets in Vietnam are in the 220V – 240V range, which is typical in European, African and Asian countries, as well as Australia.
Q. Do American need an electrical converter since in the U.S uses 110V - 120V?
A. Yes, you will need to bring along an electrical converter as in Vietnam we use 220V, otherwise this can be bought from electrical stores nearby your hotels.
Money:
Q. What is the preferred currency?
A. The local Vietnamese Dong and American Dollar are both accepted in Vietnam. However, the Dong is a closed currency and only available to exchange on arrival in the country. Use the local banks and ATMs to get this currency. The American Dollar is useful in a variety of situations, such as paying the cost of visa on arrival or tipping drivers, guides, bell boys, etc.
Q. Are credit cards widely accepted?
A. Major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City accept credit card (Visa, MasterCard, JCB, American Express) payments in upmarket establishments intended for the tourist market, such as high-end restaurants and mid-level or above hotels. Credit card payments are likely to attract a surcharge of 5% or more. Make sure to travel with enough cash when travelling outside the major cities. Additionally, there is the option to carry travellers’ cheques which can easily be converted to cash in any decent size city.
Q. Is travel expensive in Vietnam?
A. Vietnam is a relatively cheap country to visit on a tour of S.E Asia. Food and accommodation is particularly low. A local dish costs about $2 to $3, while the Western cuisine is available, but will be a lot more expensive. A stay in a mid-range Hanoi hotel with private bathroom, AC and Wi-Fi is likely to cost approx $12 to $15 per night.
Q. How about tipping in Vietnam? When should we tip?
A. Tipping is not expected in Vietnam, but will be greatly appreciated. Smart hotels and restaurants nowadays add a 10-15% service charge (which should be indicated on the bill) but else where it’s up to you. It’s a good idea to tip guides, drivers and anyone else that has provided excellent service.Q. Is it better to use dollars or dong for daily expenses?
Q. Is it better to use dollars or dong for daily expenses?
A. Despite government attempts to outlaw the practice, the US$ still acts as an alternative currency which is almost completely interchangeable with the dong. Many prices, especially for hotels, tours and expensive restaurants, are still quoted in US$, though you can pay in dong if you’d rather – just check what exchange rate they’re using.
For everyday expenses, I recommend carrying a mix of US$ cash and dong. For larger items (hotel bills, train tickets, etc.) or when the exchange rate works in your favor, use dollars. For cyclos, local food stalls and small purchases, it’s best to use dong. In either case, make sure you always have a stock of small notes so that you don’t have to worry about change.