vietnam safe to travel

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Vietnam Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 24, 2023, vietnam - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.                    Exercise normal precautions in Vietnam.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Vietnam.

 If you decide to travel to Vietnam:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.   
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .   
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Vietnam.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .    

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Home » Southeast Asia » Travel Safety

Is Vietnam Safe for Travel? (Insider Tips)

Vietnam is awesome. There’s the iconic  Halong Bay,  the sparkling turquoise seas and curving beaches of  Phu Quoc,  breathtaking scenery at  Tam Coc , the banyan-strewn colonial streets of  Hanoi,  and a whole lot of other things to see.

And you know what?  Vietnam is pretty damn safe these days.  Granted, we’re not so sure about its road safety. This country is infamous for the millions of motorbikes that madly make their way through its cities and towns every day. There’s a little bit of petty theft to contend with, too.

But you shouldn’t worry at all. We have made this epic insiders guide on  staying safe in Vietnam  so that you can really get into the nitty-gritty of this Southeast Asian gem. We’re all about smart travel at The Broke Backpacker, and think you should be too!

We’re going to be looking into a whole lot of safety concerns when it comes to travelling to Vietnam. Whether or not it’s safe to drive in Vietnam, if you can safely eat the food, even if you can travel to with children. Vietnam in its entirety is covered here.

You might be thinking of taking the plunge and going on a backpacking trip for the first time, you might be looking for a safe destination to travel around as a female solo traveller – whatever you’re planning, our insider’s guide is all about discovering Vietnam… safely!

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How Safe is Vietnam? (Our take)

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Vietnam is a classic destination on the “Banana Pancake Trail”, the well-trodden backpacker route through Southeast Asia. The culture is vibrant, the history is fascinating, the cities are mad, nature is stunning, and those beaches … WOW.

We’re going to come out and say it,  Vietnam is safe for travelers.  Millions of people each year visit this country – and increasingly not only intrepid backpackers! Couples on a long holiday, retirees, families; all sorts of people are coming to Vietnam.

Vietnam does suffer from some problems that are endemic of poorer countries. Petty theft can be an issue, especially in  Saigon,  but it actually has a  very low crime rate.  Scams may be common, but the worst that is likely to occur is your bag, phone or tablet being snatched by a scooter-riding thief.

On that note, the roads, in general, aren’t all that safe and motor-related fatalities are more common than anything else.

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, and this article is no different. The question of “Is Vietnam Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on the parties involved. But this article is written for savvy travellers from the perspective of savvy travellers.

The information present in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing, however, the world is a changeable place, now more than ever. Between the pandemic, ever-worsening cultural division, and a click-hungry media, it can be hard to maintain what is truth and what is sensationalism.

Here, you will find safety knowledge and advice for travelling Vietnam. It won’t be down to the wire cutting edge info on the most current events, but it is layered in the expertise of veteran travellers. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practise common sense, you will have a safe trip to Vietnam.

If you see any outdated information in this guide, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. We strive to provide the most relevant travel information on the web and always appreciate input from our readers (nicely, please!). Otherwise, thanks for your ear and stay safe!

It’s a wild world out there. But it’s pretty damn special too. 🙂

Yep – Vietnam is absolutely safe to visit. Let’s just say  the numbers speak for themselves. Everyone seems to be traveling to Vietnam  these days. 

If you’re curious about the country, looking for a good place to start a Southeast Asia trip, or it’s your first trip travelling alone,  Vietnam is a great first-time destination for solo travellers.

About those roads though… Road-related deaths kill more people than diseases in Vietnam.  That’s around 14,000 people each year. It’s the 3rd highest rate of road-related deaths in Asia, behind Thailand and Iran. Pretty serious.

To be fair, approximately 59% of the population get around on motorbikes. Trust us, you’ll see A LOT of these in Vietnam. Biking can be fun but it can be a very dangerous way to travel (more on that later).

Vietnam is a one-party communist state, which is something you should be aware of. The Vietnamese government represses free speech and censors a lot of dialogue. Reporters Without Borders rank Vietnam as  175 out of 180 countries in terms of press freedom.

At the same time, young people here are open-minded, knowledgeable and happy to make friends.  We’ve met several Vietnamese locals over our travels and all of them are perfectly normal and far more Westernized than we expected.

When it comes to politics, just  stay away – don’t get involved in local issues.

When choosing where you’ll be staying in Vietnam, a bit of research and caution is essential. You don’t want to end up in a sketchy area and ruin your trip. To help you out, we’ve listed the safest areas to visit in Vietnam below.

Hanoi 

As the modern capital of Vietnam, Hanoi is the main gateway to the country and the first place most travelers will visit upon arrival. Hanoi has an extensive history that gives visitors the chance to learn about the Vietnam War, colonial rule and ancient history in the region. 

Hanoi is ranked among the top destinations in the world! It provides an excellent overview of everything Vietnam has to offer, and we would argue it is a must see on any itinerary travelling around Southeast Asia.

The popularity and infrastructure development makes Hanoi the safest city in Vietnam. 

Da Lat is a great example of the colonial influence on Vietnam – with French-style buildings and star-shaped streets running throughout the city. It was once a popular getaway for French colonial authorities looking to escape the heat of the larger cities. 

It’s got a more laid-back and relaxed vibe than other busy cities which also increases the safety level quite a bit. It’s also considered to be a top honeymoon location thanks to the stunning nature and peaceful atmosphere. 

Ho Chi Minh

Now, this is a special one! Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam and the former capital of South Vietnam! Like Hanoi, it offers some excellent historic and cultural attractions – as well as excellent nightlife venues. A wallet-friendly destination for budget backpackers, Ho Chi Minh City is known for its great street food vendors, featuring cuisines from all over the world, and a wide range of cheap accommodation.

While the city is definitely worth visiting, you’ll have to fight your way through the crowds sometimes. And lots of people attract pickpocketing thieves and scammers. As long as you keep an eye on your belongings, you will be fine. Apart from that minor issue, you won’t have to worry about anything more serious in Ho Chi Minh.

Places to avoid in Vietnam

Luckily, there are no places in Vietnam that we’d recommend to fully avoid. That being said, it still pays off to be aware of your surroundings and travel with your common sense switched on. 

No large city is crime-free, and neither are those in Vietnam. While cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh attract pickpocketing thieves, you normally don’t have to worry about more serious crimes. As long as you keep an eye on your belongings, even that threat can be avoided completely.

Vietnam Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Vietnam is an amazing destination, which is partly because it’s so  easy and safe  to travel around. Everything from catching long distance buses, to going on tours, even walking around tourist areas doesn’t come with the same alarm bells that you’d get in other countries. HOWEVER, it always pays to travel smart and safe wherever you are in the world.   Here are our top tips for doing just that.

• Wear a helmet when riding a motorbike  – you are an actual idiot if you don’t. It’s not cool.
• Carry copies of important travel documents  – it’ll save you a whole lot HASSLE if anything goes missing.
• Don’t flash any of your expensive tech on city streets  – mainly, this goes for  Saigon.  People sometimes have their phone snatched right out of their hands.
• Keep your money safe in a security belt – Money can suffer the same fate as your tech. Keep it totally secure using a money belt – these are inconspicuous, effective, and sometimes good-looking.
• Watch out for the weather  – in the rainy season, it can be fine one minute, completely torrential the next. Dangerous on treks.
• Stay hydrated – Vietnam gets HOT. REALLY HOT. Humidity makes it harder to regulate your temp, so have a reusable water bottle and keep drinking water.
• Try to blend in  – singlets and short shorts may be the flavour of the month for backpackers here, but you should use the locals as models instead and be respectful. ESPECIALLY at religious sites.
• Be conscious of government buildings  – if someone’s on guard, it’s important. Keep a wide berth and you won’t get told off.
• And don’t take pictures of them either  – that is actually illegal.
• Make sure you count your change  – you’ll be a millionaire… in  dong . All those big numbers can be tricky to figure out. Some unscrupulous store owners know this and will hand back a random (lower) amount of cash as change.
• Careful what you’re drinking  – some rice wines – homebrewed maybe – have CRAZY levels of alcohol. Know your limits
• Trust your gut  – if people seem weird or if the situation doesn’t feel right, remove yourself.
• Drugs are NOT legal  – drugs, especially cannabis, are easily obtained. People offer it to you all the time and it’s an easy way to see a much darker side of Vietnam. Mind you, possessing a small amount of ANYTHING can entail serious consequences.
• Don’t stray from rural roads alone  – there’s still plenty of UXO (unexploded ordnance) for unsuspecting travellers to step on.
• Cross the road confidently but carefully  – motorbikes will swerve out your way. Hesitating is much more dangerous.
• Respect the sea  – dangerous currents and dangerous critters make the sea pretty perilous. On another note, DON’T swim whilst drunk.
• Watch your bags!  – we’re talking handbags, tote bags, grocery bags, camera bags, any kind of bag. Motorbike riders have been known to take these as you’re walking along, or even if you’re just in the back of a tuk-tuk.

The main issue you’ll in Vietnam is bag snatching. To be fair, this is mainly an issue in  Saigon and other big cities.  Scammy behaviour, in general, is something to look out for, too.

Ultimately, Vietnam is still a safe place to visit and travel around. As with anywhere in the world, being sensible and travelling smart is going to ensure you have a blast. Following time-tested habits like these will help you stay safe and keep possession of your valuables.

Travelling by yourself is GREAT! It’s fun, it’s freeing, enlightening, and challenging, all at once. But it can sure as hell be daunting.

However, Vietnam is safe to travel alone. Absolutely. It’s is not only SAFE to travel alone, but we reckon it’s one of the best places for a first-time solo traveller anywhere in the world.

There are things to keep in mind though as solo travel comes with its own set of risks.

• Letting people know where you are is a good idea, no matter where you stay in Vietnam. You might be finding yourself,  you might want to be an enigma, and you might want to be alone. But it’s still a good idea to call your parents and loved ones, even if it feels like a drag. Checking in not only lets your family and friends know  you’re safe , it also keeps you in touch with reality, which can be easily blurred when travelling alone.
• Getting a  sim card  is really going to help you out, especially with maps and getting around. If you don’t have or can’t get a roaming sim, don’t worry. Downloading an offline maps app like  Maps.me will really be a lifesaver when it comes to finding your way around a city.
• Definitely read reviews of the various backpacker hostels around Vietnam  before booking, and find one that suits you. At the same time, you’ll want to stay somewhere with A LOT of generally good reviews and high scores. This will heighten your chances of being safe and  having an amazing time.
• Talk to the staff at your hostel and learn things like how much tours or nearby attractions should cost, or simply where to eat and what to do in any given place. You won’t have anyone to bounce ideas off when you’re travelling alone;  so make the most of local knowledge.
• Make friends! Whether that’s with local students , which will definitely open up the country in a whole different way, or with fellow backpackers, you’ll be rewarded. Plus, travelling solo CAN get pretty lonely. Talk to people, share travel stories, tell people about your country, listen – you might even end up making a  travel buddy!
• Vietnam is a deceptively  large  country and the distances between places can be HUGE. You shouldn’t wear yourself out by trying to do and see everything. Don’t forget: you’re already doing a lot just by travelling solo!
• If this is the first time travelling outside your country, consider  taking a tour.  Even if it’s just a walking tour organized by your hostel. It’s a great way to get acquainted with the country and the city streets. Plus, you might make some new friends too.
• Ok, so Vietnam might seem cheap,  but keep track of your money.  Good money management will ultimately lengthen your trip! At the same time, if something bad DOES happen – all your stuff goes missing, whatever – you should have a backup credit card . This will save you  so much stress and hassle  you would not even BELIEVE.

As you can see, there’s still plenty of things that solo travellers can do to keep themselves safe in Vietnam. That said, this Southeast Asian country is thankfully very safe. But more than anything,  keeping happy  is going to be key to having an amazing trip. Make friends, have an awesome time, and remember how fortunate you are to be in this amazing country!

Women travelling by themselves have to do so by a  slightly different  set of rules . While this is an unfortunate situation, it is something that needs to be taken into consideration regardless of where you travel.

But Vietnam is safer for female travellers than a lot of other countries in the world. Vietnamese women are particularly amazing and will, more often than not, help out any woman visiting by themselves.

For solo female travellers, making a trip to Vietnam is totally doable. To make sure that your trip is free of trouble and harassment, we’ve included a couple extra tips for women travelling to Vietnam.

• Vietnam is still relatively conservative and this, in turn, affects how women should present themselves. The conservative values go all the way to how you’re dressed, of course. Generally, tight and/or revealing might possibly get you propositions (however this often goes no further). Check out what the local women are wearing around you and try to adapt as much as possible.
• Book yourself into a female-only dorm at a hostel. This a nice idea to get to know fellow female travellers, share stories, and swap tips – maybe even about a destination you’re planning to go to. Obviously,  doing research and reading reviews  is going to make sure you end up staying at an awesome hostel.
• Making friends is a good idea. Not only does it remedy those solo travelling blues, but it may give you a new buddy to explore Vietnam with.
• If you’re getting hassled by anyone, whether it’s a taxi tout or another backpacker,  make a fuss.  It’s unusual for anyone in Vietnam to make a scene and get loud, so this will definitely draw some attention.
• This goes for pretty much anywhere in the world, but if someone seems like they’re a bit too interested in you and they’re asking a load of questions, don’t reveal too much.  You don’t NEED to tell anyone your address, whether you’re married or not, or even your full name. If you’re not interested in someone, or if they’re weirding you out,  don’t give them anything, even if they’re another traveller. You never know who they are or how weird they might be! Use your gut, basically.
• DON’T walk around by yourself at night, especially around train stations or sketchy backstreets. Let’s face it, that’s where you’ll find people with ill-intentions. Main streets will be safer, but we still wouldn’t recommend it. Harassment and assaults  have happened, even in the touristy areas of Vietnam .
• If you’re a victim of a crime, t he onus is often on you to prove what’s happened. This can make pursuing justice somewhat challenging, especially if you’ve been drinking (locals don’t respect drunks). If you want to report a crime, take someone who speaks Vietnamese with you to help plead your case.
• Train travel tip: if you find yourself in a room on a sleeper train with people you really don’t comfortable with, alert the train guard and  see if they can move you.

Traditionally  patriarchal Confucian values  persist in Vietnam, however, women play an important role in society. Look at any street and you’ll see who’s doing the most work (spoiler alert: women). If you’d like to learn more about gender roles in Vietnam, we recommend visiting Hanoi and going to the Women’s Museum , which is one of the most inspiring and interesting places we’ve been.

Women here still face daily domestic struggles, but things are always getting better, thanks in part to increased education. While Vietnam is still generally safe for solo female travellers, the situation will get even better over time.

What we do recommend is being careful at night though. If possible, grab a taxi to get around after dark or stick with a large group. Wandering around by yourself in secluded areas is never a good idea, especially at night.

We’ve covered the main safety concerns already, but there are a few more things to know. Read on for more detailed information on how to have a safe trip to Vietnam.

Is Vietnam safe to travel for families?

Wow, YES. Absolutely, Vietnam is safe to travel for families. For kids and parents alike, Vietnam can be an  awesome experience!

If you and your family love spending time on the beach, there are plenty here. If you’re all about beautiful nature, there’s plenty of that too. (Ever heard of Halong Bay?)  There are colonial cities, there are amazingly colourful markets, cultural immersions, and a whole lot more on offer in Vietnam for families.

To be honest,  it’s better to take older children.  They’ll probably get a whole lot more out of it culturally and physically. Biggest problem may be that you and your kids’ friends will probably never hear the end of the vacation!

Jokes aside, there are some special considerations when traveling to Vietnam with the family.

Vaccines should be in order. Protecting yourself against mosquito bites is super important  as well. Make sure your kids stay out the sun and keep them hydrated.

Travelling with small children comes with its own complexities, but having said that  we’ve seen Western women on night trains with babies in their arms.  Take solace in knowing that a lot of women feel comfortable enough travelling with infants.

Granted, you won’t find baby changing facilities, and forget high chairs or car seats. You should stock up on nappies or any medical supplies your children might need before departing for Vietnam.

This all changes, of course, if you’re planning on  staying on a resort.  You’ll find pretty much everything you need here. Some places are definitely more family-friendly than others too, so  research your destination. 

In the end, yes, it’s safe to travel with children in Vietnam. You and they will love it!

Is it safe to drive in Vietnam?

The rumours you’ve heard are true – t he roads in Vietnam are mental.

Somehow, Vietnamese people know how it works and you’ll see motorbikes effortlessly meander between each other in a chaotic ballet of vehicles.

Up until recently, it wasn’t allowed for travellers to rent a car . Now, you can, with an international driver’s permit, but we still wouldn’t recommend it.

However, as many travellers do, you can easily rent a motorbike in Vietnam . These are available EVERYWHERE.

Should you decide to rent a motorbike in Vietnam, be wary of the condition of it. Take pictures before you head out. For that matter, rent from somewhere that has been well-reviewed and that is willing to give you a brief lesson if you need on. Far better to actually have some  motorbike riding experience. 

The unexpected can always happen. Animals in the road is a real hazard and road regulations are almost nonexistent.

At the end of the day,  driving in Vietnam can be a very cool experience, so much so that many people are willing to accept the risks. The amazing landscapes, open roads, the romance of a road trip, the adventure of it all, the amount you’ll save; we totally get it.

Just keep in mind that it IS risky.

Riding a motorbike in Vietnam

As we mentioned above, there’s a lot of traffic in Vietnam. The streets seem chaotic and hectic, which can be a bit overwhelming. However, some parts of Vietnam – such as the spectacular Ha Giang Loop – are just too damn special to miss out on.

If you decide to rent or buy a motorbike, we’ve listed up a few basic rules that can prevent you from one or the other accident:

• Always wear a helmet: We can’t repeat that enough. Yeah, you might see locals without one, but you’re better off safe than sorry. If you go on long trips, we’d even recommend buying your own proper helmet than wearing one from the rental.
• Stay on the right side of the road, manage your speed carefully and always be aware of your surroundings. Locals can be reckless, so you have to be focused at all times.
• Make sure your lights and honk work – and use them! Honking isn’t offensive in Vietnam, it’s a simple way to say “hey I’m on the road too, be careful”.

If you don’t want to drive on your own, you can always use the Grab App. This is the Asian version of Uber, and you can choose your way of transport (bike or car). It’s a super cheap option to get from A to B too.

Is Uber safe in Vietnam?

Uber in Vietnam  ceased operations in early 2018.  So that’s that.

You can use  Grab  or  Go-Jek  to order taxis. You don’t need cash, it’s all tracked, and it’s pretty safe.

Are taxis safe in Vietnam?

Taxis ARE generally safe in Vietnam. Again, like most countries you’ll visit, there are scams.

Ordering through your hotel will greatly reduce your chances of getting ripped off.  You can even pay by card in some taxis.  Otherwise, make sure you have small denominations as taxi drivers don’t like breaking larger bills.

Taxis in Vietnam run on a meter, and the cars are usually clean and well kept. Do your research on reputable companies, but usually taking a cab from a taxi rank outside a train station, or wherever you find them, will be just fine.

As always,  if it doesn’t feel right, don’t get in.

Then there are the infamous  xe om  (literally, ‘hug taxis’). These are motorbike taxis that you’ll find pretty much everywhere. It’s a normal mode of transport. You should haggle for the best price , and there’s no room for luggage – just so you know!

Regardless of which type you choose, all forms of taxis are safe in Vietnam.

Is public transportation in Vietnam safe?

Ok, so first things first: public transport in Vietnam is AWESOME! Using it will add so much authenticity and insight into your trip . This is particularly the case with  trains.

Not only are the train stations beautiful in a crumbling, in that Old World French colonial way, but they’re great places to  soak up local life.  Travelling on the train in Vietnam is perfectly safe and is, we’re gonna say it, probably the best way to see the country without any hassle.

When it comes to  night trains,  there’s a number of rooms on offer. You can sip a coffee as the world whizzes by your window. Or head up to the restaurant carriage where the guards will sell you a beer if you want it. You can even buy tickets online in advance to make sure you get the seat (or bed) you want.

In the cities themselves, there are  public bus systems , but these are not worth the effort. You can pretty much walk or take a taxi to anywhere you need to. If you travel to Hoi An , or anywhere else rural, renting a bicycle to get around is totally doable.

Night buses are safe, but obviously, there are the perils of the Vietnamese roads to contend with. For that matter, the bus drivers can drive erratically.  Accidents do happen.  If you need to travel long distances, either travel by day or jump on one of those trains.

If you’re REALLY desperate to travel quickly, you can even catch a cheap  flight.

Is the food in Vietnam safe?

Seriously? The food in Vietnam is the reason some people COME here in the first place.  It’s amazing.  Everything from  pho  and banh mi  to delicious goi  (like a mini, Vietnamese pasty) and unusual street food like  banh tranh trong  (rice noodles with dried beef, squid, and plenty of chilli)… Wow. Just wow.

It’s also  super affordable.  Especially the street food – it’s some of the best in the world . Missing out on the street food will mean missing out on a whole slice of where Vietnamese life is actually played out. To help you get your taste on, here are some tips.

• Before anything else,  wash your hands!  It’s not just other people’s hands that can make you sick, it’s your OWN.
• If you’re really on the look-out for something good,  go online and read reviews.  Those street food stalls are there in the same spot, day in, day out, and of course have their own Google reviews.
• Stay away from  raw blood pudding.  There are bacteria in this that can really make you fatally ill.
• Pho  is the iconic dish of Vietnam, and when you do get a bowl of this delicious noodle soup,  make sure it’s hot.  To be honest, this goes for any food. Freshly prepared = less likely to make you ill.
• What are the locals doing? What are they eating? If everyone’s eating the same thing at one food stall, that’s a sign. If you see a REALLY BUSY place, that’s an even better sign. Popular places are going to be super tasty and will have good reputations. People don’t return to restaurants that make them sick.
• However, your stomach might not be used to this food and it might make you ill anyway.  Sometimes it can be downright spicy, too. Ease yourself in.
• If meat is ropey looking and you actually can’t even identify what animal it’s come from,  maybe opt out. 
• Just because you’re seated on a plastic stool on the side of the road with scrunched up tissues on the floor,  doesn’t mean it’s dangerous. This is just the way it is in Vietnam.  You’ll even find office workers perched on these little stools. Places are cleaned daily, washing is regularly done, and sometimes if a place looks like it’s been open for decades,  it probably has – and for good reason!
• Don’t eat fruit that you haven’t peeled yourself. Just a good rule of thumb, really.
• Totally drink the coffee though!  Amazing!  Milk in Vietnam – not so much. The condensed milk in a Vietnamese iced coffee is ALL GOOD, on the other hand.
• Finally, don’t be afraid of egg coffee!
• Traveling with an allergy? Research ahead of time how to explain your allergy. Keep in mind that store owners and restaurant staff might not know all the foods that contain allergens, so it’s helpful to know the names of some of these too. If you’re gluten-free , pick up a handy Gluten-Free Translation Card with descriptions of Celiac disease, cross-contamination risk, and local Vietnamese ingredients in Vietnamese.

As long as you’re considerate and you wash those mitts of yours, you’re bound to have a blast exploring what the beautifully fresh cuisine of Vietnam has to offer. Now we’re super hungry.

Can you drink the water in Vietnam?

In a word,  no.

Drink bottled water. Bring a refillable travel bottle and, if your accommodation has a filter, fill up.

If you’re out trekking in the mountains and are tempting to drink from the streams, don’t. Not unless you know where the stream flows from and you have something to purify it, like a Grayl Geopress.

The water is not safe to drink in Vietnam. Simple as that.

Is Vietnam safe to live?

Good news: Vietnam is safe to live in and many people do. Many expats choose to live in Vietnam,  especially in cities.  In particular,  Saigon  has a sizeable expat community.

A lot of people teach English in Vietnam . It’s an easy ‘in’ and a way to experience another culture.

The cost of living is probably going to be comparatively low. So much so that it might be painful to return to your own country!

You’ll have to contend with things like people trying to rip you off, petty theft, scams, and, of course, the roads. Pollution in big cities is present in sometimes unhealthy amounts. Even  Hanoi  is getting increasingly worse in terms of air quality. The pollution is caused by the burning of coal, which is one of Vietnam’s primary sources of energy.

There’s something that’s initially not an obvious concern but could easily become a problem.  Cheap alcohol  and a lack of judgement could become a slippery slope. A lot of expats fall into alcoholism and making friends with people like this may not be the best idea.

Other than all that, Vietnam is safe to live in. There are no MAJOR health risks, no MAJOR crime. Just do your research, find out where you want to live, don’t isolate yourself, and you’re bound to enjoy your time living in Vietnam.

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An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Is it safe to rent an Airbnb in Vietnam?

Renting an Airbnb in Vietnam is a great idea. And it’s perfectly safe, as long as you read the reviews. Staying at an Airbnb during your trip will also open up new possibilities and options to experience the country. The local hosts are known to take great care of their guests and give the absolute best recommendations of what to do and what to see. Local knowledge always goes a long way, so be sure to reach out to your hosts if you’re unsure about how to fill up your Vietnam itinerary!

On top of that, you’ll stay safe with the reliable Airbnb booking system. Both hosts and guests can rate each other which creates a very respectful and trustworthy interaction. 

Is Vietnam LGBTQ+ friendly? 

Vietnam is pretty relaxed when it comes to LGBTQ+ travellers. While you might not find the most extensive gay-scene, locals and fellow travellers are normally pretty open minded and friendly. If you’re worried about you and your partner’s safety, keep physical affection behind closed doors. That way you will 100% have a hassle free trip. 

Same-sex relationships and same-sex sexual acts are legal, and a ban on same-sex marriages was lifted in in January 2015. Since then, the country’s attitude towards the topic has improved quite a bit. That being said, you probably won’t be able to fully avoid the closed-minded, conservative people. If you encounter one, stay calm, move on and forget about it.

Here are some quick answers to common questions about safety in Vietnam.

Is Vietnam friendly to foreigners?

Foreigners are generally very welcome in Vietnam. Locals are friendly and polite, but usually don’t fully open up. As long as you don’t offend a local or disrespect their culture, you will be welcomed with open arms.

Is it safe for tourists in Vietnam?

Vietnam can be safe for tourists if caution is taken. With a bit of research and safe accommodation, you can have a trouble-free stay. Using your street smarts and common sense should be a no-brainer.

What should I avoid in Vietnam?

Avoid these things when visiting Vietnam to stay safe: – Don’t flash any of your expensive tech on city streets – Don’t forget to wear your helmet when riding a motorbike – Don’t underestimate the hot climate – Don’t stray from rural roads alone

Is Vietnam safer than Thailand?

Both countries have similar safety issues. Road safety is not as much of a problem in Vietnam, but small crimes like pickpocketing and petty theft occurs more often. You’ll be equally safe in Vietnam and Thailand.

It may have its faults, but if you’re willing to overlook the few, Vietnam is an amazingly safe destination.

In terms of threats to your life, the roads will always be your biggest (and almost only) concerns.  The biggest danger in Vietnam is being in a road traffic accident. That’s statistics for you.

However, since you don’t HAVE to rent a motorbike, and since the roads – however chaotic – seem to  work well enough  in Vietnam’s bustling cities, you’re going to be just fine  in this incredible cradle of Southeast Asia.

Petty theft may be a small issue, but, in the big picture, it’s not something that should keep you awake at night. There are little if any serious dangers to your life, and petty theft can be avoided with good sense, anyway.

In Vietnam you can eat street food, explore eternally busy city streets, start chatting to local students, trek in the highlands, chill on some incredible beaches, and be safe in the knowledge that it’s… well – SAFE.  So enjoy yourself!  Especially if this is your first go at backpacking.

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels! Some of the links in this post are affiliate links which means we earn a small commission if you purchase your insurance through this page. This costs you nothing extra and helps us keep the site going. 

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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This is the best write up I’ve seen so far addressing the safety levels in Vietnam. I get lots of questions concering this topic and this article will be very helpful in answering them. Thanks Clair.

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Vietnam travel requirements 2024: What travelers need to know

We aim to keep this post updated about Vietnam travel in 2024 with official Vietnam travel restrictions, requirements, and health and safety guidance. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions so you can travel confidently, safely, and responsibly in this new post-pandemic world of ours.

Vietnam is a destination close to our hearts. We returned to visit Vietnam in 2023 and 2024.

As restrictions can vary based on the traveler’s citizenship, we will focus primarily on rules affecting U.S. citizens.

* Get our free Post-Pandemic Travel Checklist *  

April 2024 – “During our 3-month stay in Central Vietnam, we took a short trip out of the country. We brought our printed e-visa , which was examined by the agent that checked us into our flight from Hong Kong back to Vietnam and again at immigration in Da Nang. Proof of onward travel was not requested this time. The Hanoi airport international check in was as crowded as ever in April. Budget airlines like VietJet use buses instead of jetways for boarding and deplaning, so it’s impossible to avoid close contact with crowds. I’d say less than 1/4 of travelers are still wearing masks. Masks are more commonly worn outside on motorbikes in Vietnam.”

January 2024 – “We flew back to Hanoi, this time with a 3-month evisa we applied for online well in advance. Besides valid passports, we were asked for proof of onward travel from Vietnam while checking into our flight in the US. We were asked to name our travel insurance provider on the visa application and brought documentation of the policy from Safety Wing , however, we weren’t asked to show it at any point. We were not asked any questions at immigration, only provided our passport and black/white print out of the visa.”

At the end of the post, we share more on-the-ground perspectives from local residents and travelers to Vietnam so you can get a true sense of what things are like.

Table of Contents

Is Vietnam open for travel? Can I travel to Vietnam right now?

Vietnam is now open to foreign travelers. Vietnam officially reopened its borders to all international visitors on March 2022, after two years of being closed.

Travelers can apply for an e-visa online. See our Vietnam evisa tips here.

Foreign travelers are not required to take a pre-departure Covid-19 test or show proof of vaccination prior to arrival. The health declaration form requirement has been removed. 

Travel insurance that covers Covid-19 treatment with a minimum coverage of $10,000 has been required. There is a declaration that you’ll have insurance on the evisa application. It’s unclear if this is still being enforced anywhere. (We use Safety Wing for travel insurance in Vietnam.)

What Vietnam tourist visas are available right now?

E -visas are available to Americans, Canadians, and all other nationalities.

Effective August 2023, e-visa validity has been extended to 90 days. You can choose between single entry or multiple entries.

Travelers can apply for an e-visa at the e-visa web portal of the Vietnam Immigration Department.

Be sure to review our Vietnam evisa tips here , as there are some quirks and important things to know to avoid having to reapply.

In our experience, processing the evisa can take at least 3 days. We also had to redo one application because one of our credit cards wouldn’t allow the online charge. It’s best to apply for Vietnam e-visas several weeks in advance, just in case.

What about Vietnam Visas On Arrival?

We’re not clear on the availability of Visas On Arrival – technically it’s a Landing Approval Letter, which we used before the pandemic. We saw no desk for VOAs in the immigration hall at Ho Chi Minh City airport when we arrived at the end of 2022. In early 2024, there was a “Visa Application” desk in Hanoi, but it didn’t seem to be active.

In cases where you’re ineligible or have trouble with the e-visa process, you may be able to apply for a Landing Approval Letter through an agent in Vietnam, print out the letter, and proceed to the visa counter at the airport to receive your actual visa sticker, which is another $25 USD.

Can Vietnam e-Visas be extended?

E-visas cannot be extended , meaning visitors have to leave or do a border run and reapply. There is no official limit that we can find as to how many times tourists will be approved for e-visas back to back.

Vietnamese embassies and consulates are telling callers that nothing can be done about visas there, as all applications are currently online.

Quarantine rules in Vietnam: What happens if I get Covid?

Travelers entering Vietnam are not required to quarantine upon arrival.

Foreign tourists experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or those concerned they have been exposed to COVID-19 while in Vietnam can call Vietnam’s health hotline at 19009095 (Press 1 for English).

Foreign tourists who  test positive for Covid while in Vietnam may need to isolate for treatment. Thankfully, isolation no longer needs to take place in government facilities.

Medical treatment should be covered by the visitor’s travel insurance. Some of our acquaintances tried getting Paxlovid via a local doctor while in Vietnam but were not successful.

How has the Coronavirus impacted Vietnam?

Apart from suspending foreign travel, the impact of Covid in Vietnam was relatively minimal in the first year. The country’s quick reaction became one of the most effective in the world at first. Lock downs were for a few short weeks and then daily life resumed as usual for several months until new cases popped up.

Vietnam had 99 days without any cases of community transmission and no deaths in Spring 2020. However, in late summer 2021, the infection rate in Vietnam skyrocketed as the Delta variant spread and vaccination rates were low. In December 2021, Vietnam detected the first case of the Omicron variant in Hanoi.

Strict lock down zones were implemented throughout 2021. Vietnam’s tourism and manufacturing sectors have been especially hit hard.

In March 2021, vaccinations began but very slowly. Now, over three quarters of the population are fully vaccinated.

In January 2022, Vietnam reopened international flights from select locations. A limited number of tourists were accepted through package tours and a trial vaccine passport program until full reopening in late Spring 2022.

International tourism recovery was slow in 2022, though domestic tourism was strengthened. Vietnam’s tourism in 2023 was still lower than pre-pandemic levels.

For the current situation in Vietnam, including: total COVID-19 positive cases; total cases in Vietnam; and COVID-19 testing in Vietnam, please see the Vietnam Ministry of Health site .

Can I travel to Vietnam this Spring 2024?

Travel to Vietnam this Spring is open . Read on for details and check back for updates.

What is it like to fly to Vietnam HAN Hanoi, DAD Da Nang, or SGN Ho Chi Minh City International Airport right now?

Vietnam airports seemed very busy to us, and crowds are difficult to avoid. Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City airports can get exceptionally crowded. Masks are no longer required.

Do I have to quarantine when traveling to Vietnam? No. See details above.

Does Vietnam check COVID-19 symptoms of incoming travelers? No.

Does Vietnam require a proof of negative Covid 19 test result for travelers? No. As of April 2022, a negative test is no longer required for entry into Vietnam. 

Does Vietnam require a proof of Coronavirus vaccine for travelers? No. Proof of vaccination is currently not required to enter Vietnam. 

Do I still need to provide a negative Covid test or quarantine if I have been vaccinated? At this time, there is no special allowance for vaccinated travelers in Vietnam. However, a Covid test and quarantine is no longer required to enter Vietnam.

Is a booster shot required for travel to Vietnam? At this time, booster shots are not required in Vietnam. There is currently no expiration period set for the validity of vaccinations.

What healthcare options are available to travelers in Vietnam who get the virus? Hospitals and clinics are open in Vietnam. Foreigners must pay for any medical treatment out of pocket.  

Government quarantine locations may only have rudimentary facilities.

Persons experiencing symptoms of the COVID-19 virus should call the health hotline at 19009095 (Press 1 for English). Availability of treatments may differ from your home country.

If a foreign visitor is required to be tested for Coronavirus, they can get tested at designated laboratories in Vietnam. The test may be free if they test negative. If the test is positive, the visitor will be required to pay for it.

For travel insurance that covers Covid, check out Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing >

What service businesses and restaurants are open in Vietnam? Businesses and activities have fully reopened. Select cities and provinces have imposed temporary lock downs or closed certain non-essential businesses when outbreaks of the virus are detected in the area. 

Are face masks required in Vietnam? Vietnam has relaxed mask rules in pubic places. You’ll still see many people wearing face masks, especially while driving, as this was common practice even before the pandemic.

Are buses and trains running in Vietnam? Domestic airline and railway transportation are running on normal schedules. More daily flights within Vietnam are now available. Public and passenger transportation has resumed.

Will Vietnam impose new Covid restrictions? What’s next is difficult to predict. Vietnam no longer follows a “zero Covid” policy so shut downs are less likely than they were before vaccines were available. Historically, most countries impose COVID-19 restrictions when strains on the health care system become unsustainable.

What should you pack for safely traveling in Vietnam?

😷 Face Masks – Face coverings are required in some public places and commonly used throughout Vietnam. Find N95 masks at Bona Fide > or designer options at Vida >

🧴 Hand sanitizer   Shop hand sanitizer >

💊 Medicine – Bring enough prescription and over-the-counter medication for your entire trip to avoid trips to the clinic.

💳 Vaccine Card Holder – Protect that paper CDC card when traveling abroad (if your country doesn’t offer a digital version). Get a simple plastic protector > or Vegan leather clippable > or Leather passport + card combo holder >

👃 Covid self-test – The most studied rapid antigen self-test with FDA emergency authorization.  NOT valid to enter countries. Use for your own peace of mind. Order from CVS > or Walmart >

💧 Sealed water bottle – Make sure your reusable water bottle has a lid that’s not exposed to the air. We use one of each of the following: Shop insulated water bottles with protective lid > Shop water bottles with purification filter and protective lid >

✈️ Travel insurance that covers Covid – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.

What do Vietnamese locals and recent travelers say about visiting Vietnam now?

What is it like to visit Vietnam right now? It’s our goal to provide regular updates here from real people on the ground, to help potential visitors know what to expect. The following are subjective opinions only. Official travel guidance can be found above.

October 2023 – Peta and Jonas of Exit45 Travels , Australian travelers: “We are travelling around the north of Vietnam for 1 month from mid-September to mid-October 2023. We are nearing the end of the wet season here in the north of Vietnam which is traditionally low season. There are some tourists travelling around but in general, it is fairly quiet.

There are no travel restrictions in place here in Vietnam and there is no shortage of restaurant, accommodation and medical care facilities available. As the seasons are changing here at the moment, many locals and travellers are sick with head colds. This has been most obvious in restaurants where the cooks and waiters have been coughing and sneezing freely without covering their mouths or wearing face masks. It feels as though covid never really happened, and no lessons have been learnt about general hygiene. This may have been the case pre-covid too, and maybe we just didn’t notice then, but we have certainly had a heightened awareness of it this time.

The new e-Visa application process can be quite a challenge and whilst they say to allow 3 to 5 business days for approval, we would highly recommend applying approximately 1 month before you plan on arriving in Vietnam. If you then have any problems with the application, you will have time to reapply.

The biggest problem people are encountering is once approved, the information on your approval is incorrect i.e. middle name is missing, D.O.B. has the day / month in the wrong format, incorrect entry port etc.”

September 2023 – Ros & Alan Cuthbertson of StepIntoVietnam , Australian Digital Nomads:  “We visited Vietnam frequently prior to Covid and have returned three times since the country reopened post Covid.

Everything is back to normal, masks are not required but you will find many locals still wearing them. Very few tourists can be seen wearing masks. There is no Covid or health testing required for travel within the country.

Tourists are beginning to flock to Vietnam and are rediscovering the wonders of this fascinating country. Popular destinations such as Hanoi, Ha Long Bay and Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City are busy with tourists and prebooking travel and tours is advised. For example we tried to book a two berth train cabin from Hanoi to Hue but they had been booked out months in advance and we had to get a four berth cabin instead.”

March 2023 – Michelle, Intentional Travelers, U.S. nomad: “We thoroughly enjoyed returning to visit Vietnam and would have stayed longer if we could. Our Vietnamese friends tell us that Covid is no longer a major concern in Vietnam. Tourists have few restrictions to worry about.

There are still fewer tourists than pre-pandemic times, so I think now is a great time to visit. It still gets crowded in Hoi An Ancient Town at night, and the Hanoi airport departures area seemed exceptionally crowded.”

February 28, 2023 – Michelle, Intentional Travelers, U.S. nomad: “We arrived back in Vietnam, flying from Thailand to DAD, for our second stay on the 30-day tourist visa. The evisa application took 3-4 days this time and we made sure to print it out. Air Asia checked the evisa at check in, as did the agent at immigration when we arrived.

Filling out an immigration form when arriving in Vietnam is no longer required unless you have something to declare (bring in significant money or goods into the country). Wait time for immigration was no longer than the wait for our bags to show up at luggage claim, and customs just asked us to scan our two carry on bags.

As our flight came in, AirAsia announced that there was a mask requirement for arriving in Vietnam. However, we did not see masks enforced and even a few of the airport employees weren’t wearing masks.” 

January 27, 2023 – Michelle, Intentional Travelers, U.S. nomad: “Unlike our flight into Vietnam, masks were not required on our outgoing flight but a majority of passengers and all the crew were wearing face coverings. Da Nang airport is spacious and only crowded at certain times when many flights are scheduled.”

January 2, 2023 – Michelle, Intentional Travelers, U.S. nomad:  “The Ho Chi Minh City airport was very busy and had quite a few delayed domestic flights early in the year. More than half of passengers were wearing masks though they’re not required.”

December 2022 – Michelle, Intentional Travelers, U.S. nomad: “We flew to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam from the US via Singapore. We applied for the 30-day evisa about one week before traveling. There was an issue with Chase not allowing the credit card charge online, so we had to redo one of our applications. It was processed in 2-3 days and I printed the one-page documents for our trip. We also printed our Safety Wing travel insurance coverage letter but didn’t end up needing to show it.

Upon check-in with Singapore Airlines in Seattle, we were only asked for our passports and visa paperwork. Arriving in Vietnam, there was a 40+ minute wait for immigration. We had to show our passport, boarding pass, and evisa printout. We were never asked for onward flight booking or Covid documents.

Masks were required on our flight into Vietnam. Many locals wore masks before the pandemic (partly due to air pollution), so mask-wearing out in public is still very common but by no means universal in Vietnam.”

July 1 2022 – M.T. Expat in Ho Chi Minh City: “Covid is very much an afterthought for most people now – official national case numbers have been under 1,000 per day for a while (with basically no testing going on), and mask use is far from universal anymore. I’ve even seen people in airports and on planes without a mask… But health officials are starting to sound some (mild) alarm bells [regarding the Omicron BA.5 variant]. Given how normal daily life has become (and the incredible surge in domestic travel, which is seeing holiday-level airport traffic daily), conditions are ripe for Covid to spread rapidly.”

May 2022 – Karla of Colorful Journeys , expat in Vietnam: “Every day, an increasing number of tourists travel within Vietnam. Many local tour operators have reopened for business and are now easily bookable. Transportation options are widely available and simple to book. 

Despite the fact that there are no longer any travel restrictions in Vietnam, the majority of people still wear masks. This is particularly true in larger cities such as Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. There is also a lot of local testing accessible in major cities. Because many hotels and attractions are permanently closed, it’s a good practice to call the business beforehand.”

March 25, 2022 – Phu, Vietnamese tour guide:  “Vietnam now is reopening for tourists but the tourists come to Vietnam very little at the moment. Not so many, still quiet here. In Hoi An all the shops and restaurants are open, and more domestic tourists come to Hoi An. The local people we are really happy welcome the tourists. And me I open my motorbike tours again, but in 1 month I have only one tour booking. I will be offering a discount price to welcome tourists booking this is the year.”

We highly recommend a motorbike day tour or overnight tour with our friend, Phu! Contact him at Hoianmotorbiketouradventures@ gmail.com .

January 2022 – Isabelle of Move to Vietnam , Vietnamese resident: “At the moment, domestic travel is possible as long as you are fully vaccinated. Tourists are only allowed in Vietnam under specific requirements. Unless you want to spend $1500 and up for 7-14 days of holiday, it’s better to wait for a few more months.

June 2022 is the government’s target to reopen. However, these policies change very often.

Vietnam has a pretty good system when it comes to contact tracing. Most places of business require everyone to check-in using a QR code or sign up sheet. If that place detects a positive case, people who were there at the same time will be contacted to be tested and self-isolated for a number of days. There’s very little anti-vaccination sentiment here. 

Tourists attractions are normally open. If you need to be hospitalised, you will have an option to go to a private hospital or a more affordable local hospital (you might have to bring a local or a translator).”

December 2021 – Huong Nguyen (Hanna), Vietnamese nomad CoXplore :  “After the lifting of strict COVID-19 restrictions, the government is still strict with the 5K rule: ‘Khau trang’ (facemask), ‘Khu khuan’ (disinfection), ‘Khoang cach’ (distance), ‘Khong tu tap’ (no gathering), and ‘Khai bao y te’ (health declaration) to help citizens get used to living safely with the COVID-19 pandemic in ‘new normal’ state; and citizens are generally active to follow. 

Recovering from COVID-19, Vietnam is now encouraging domestic travelling within the country, and is prepared to welcome international visitors who have met all the vaccination requirements. Residents must receive at least a dose of COVID-19 vaccine and obtain a QR code through mandated health apps for movement within the city.”

September 2021 – Phu, Central Vietnam Resident: “Vietnam now is lock down. Covid delta so fast in Vietnam now. Kill 14000 people already. My area we are staying home, still safe at the moment.”

January 2021 – Jackie & Justin, Life Of Doing , Expats in Ho Chi Minh City:  “Vietnam does not currently allow tourists to enter the country. Tourist cities rely on locals and long term residents visiting.  Currently, there aren’t any restrictions for traveling within the country for locals and long term residents. Everyone traveling must wear masks at public places and may have a temperature check before entering a building or vehicle. Many of the tourist cities have been impacted by fewer tourists and have closed restaurants and tourist attractions. Luckily, Vietnam’s government is proactive when it comes to finding the source of confirmed cases that have tested positive for the virus and trace the contacts of confirmed cases immediately.” 

Adela, Spanish/Digital Nomad. July 2020 ~ “The only tourists in Vietnam at the moment are either those who were already in the country or Vietnamese nationals doing internal tourism. At the moment, the relationship of the locals with foreigners is back to normal, however during the months of March and April there was a sudden “fear” of foreigners, especially Westerners, and in some places (restaurants, hotels, bars, etc) we were denied entrance. Although at the moment everyone is as friendly and welcoming as it can be, the kids that live in our street still laugh and cover their faces when they see us. Many businesses have chosen to close due to the lack of tourists, but most touristic attractions are open and …less crowded than they will ever be!”

Tasha , American Digital Nomad. July 2020 ~ “Despite having a third the population of the U.S. and sharing a border with China, thanks to common sense, early action, and preventative measures, Vietnam has vanquished coronavirus. Cases peaked at less than 400, and now the virus is completely contained — there is no community spread. Borders remain closed to keep the virus out. Vietnam has done an excellent job with testing and contact tracing. The virus is completely gone from the general population, so we are living life as normal, going to restaurants and cafes.”

Even if you can’t go to Vietnam right now, you can still get started planning your Vietnam trip for the future.

Check out our other Vietnam travel resources: – Suggested Vietnam Itineraries: 10+ Days in Vietnam – A budget guide to Hoi An Vietnam – A budget guide to Ninh Binh – A budget guide to Hue – A budget guide to Hanoi – A budget guide to Mai Chau Vietnam – Central Vietnam Destinations and Itinerary

* Get our free Vietnam Travel Destinations e-guide *

If you have questions or updates about travel to Vietnam during the Coronavirus crisis or post-pandemic, please let us know in the comments below.

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Disclaimer: Please note, travel restrictions change frequently. Readers must take responsibility for verifying information through official sources like the State Department and CDC, in respect to their specific situations. No responsibility can be accepted by Intentional Travelers for action or inaction as a result of information provided through IntentionalTravelers.com. Any information provided here is issued as general information only.

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Hi Randy. We’re not experts in insurance, but we plan to use Safetywing, as mentioned in this post – it’s easy to apply for even when you’re already abroad, but the costs depends on your age and it includes additional benefits that Vietnam doesn’t require. There are online insurance quote comparison tools you could try, but I’m not aware of an insurance package specific to Vietnam travel.

I would like to know about Phase 2 travel in Vietnam in January 2022. Is Phase 1 and Phase 2 doing the same requirement such as taking Covid test within 72 hours as well as quarantine 7 days in the government facility during January 2022?

Hi Andy. Thanks for visiting our blog. There is very little information about the requirements for future phases so far, probably because everything is still in constant flux in Vietnam. We’ll do our best to update this post with details as they become available. It’s always possible the reopening dates could change and additional information may be released at the last minute.

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23 things to know before visiting Vietnam

Aug 7, 2023 • 10 min read

Read on for all the key things to know before you visit Vietnam © Elizaveta Galitckaia / Shutterstock

Adventures abound in Vietnam . You can climb the heights and scuba dive the lows, immerse yourself in culture or just kick back on the sand, confident in the knowledge that a fantastic meal is waiting for you at the end of the day. But there are things to know before you go, to avoid pitfalls in paradise. These are our top tips. 

1. Pack for the climate

Perhaps the most important consideration when planning a trip to Vietnam is the weather. The south of the country sits firmly in the humid tropics, but the climate becomes increasingly temperate as you head north, and the highlands around Sapa can be downright chilly in winter. If you plan to visit both halves of the country, bring some clothes for the cooler highlands as well as the steamy Mekong Delta . 

2. Be rain ready

Vietnam is soaked by the southwest monsoon from May to September and the northeast monsoon from October to April, so check the weather in the areas you plan to visit. Trekking in the northwest and boat trips in Halong Bay , for example, can be a soggy experience in July and August, but this is a great – if popular – time to bask on the central beaches. Even in the rainy season, it doesn’t rain all day, every day, so bring a raincoat or umbrella and make the best of the smaller crowds and lower prices. 

3. Investigate the visa options

There are numerous ways to arrange the paperwork for a visit to Vietnam, some cheaper and quicker than others. You may not need a visa at all for a short trip, and electronic visas and visas on arrival are available for many nationalities – much less hassle than going to the embassy in person. Read up on the visa requirements before you book your flights, to avoid paying more than you need to, or getting held up by red tape. 

4. Get your jabs

As with anywhere in the tropics, there are tropical illnesses to be aware of in Vietnam. See your doctor at least a month before you travel to get up to date with vaccinations, and arrange anti-malarial medication if you plan to visit rural areas. 

Mosquitoes can also carry dengue fever, so bring repellent. On arrival, avoid drinking tap water and use antibacterial hand gel to reduce the risk of stomach bugs; a medical face mask can reduce the risk of respiratory infections and help with pollution in big cities.  

5. Book ahead for Tet and the holiday peak 

Booking transport, accommodation and tours ahead of time is not essential, but it’s a good way to avoid disappointment if you come at a busy time , such as July and August on the central coast. If you plan to be in Vietnam during the Tet (Lunar New Year) festival in late January or early February, having transport and accommodation in place before you arrive is a very sensible precaution. 

There is a caveat, however – book directly with operators where possible. If you go through an agency, you’ll pay more, and some travelers have reported not getting the services and standards they were expecting when booking through third parties. 

6. Factor sleeper buses and trains into your itinerary

Domestic flights in Vietnam are inexpensive but there are less polluting alternatives. When planning long-distance travel , don’t overlook the country’s overnight trains and buses – you’ll save the cost of a night’s accommodation and cover big distances, without eating into your sightseeing time. Reserve a fully horizontal berth for a more comfortable night’s sleep – both buses and trains have them. The booking site 12Go Asia is a good place to start investigating the options. 

7. Give Vietnam the time it deserves

Vietnam measures 1650km (1025 miles) from the Chinese border in the north to the Mekong Delta in the south, so you’ll need plenty of time to get from A to B. Road and rail transport can be slow, and there are lots of places where you’ll want to stop as you travel between the major hubs. If you only have a short time, focus your itinerary on a small area – Hanoi and around, say, or Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) and the Delta. 

8. Respect religious spaces 

When visiting Buddhist, Hindu, Confucian and Taoist temples, churches and other religious buildings, dress respectfully – it’s best to cover your legs and upper arms, and you may need to take off your shoes and hat to enter. Never touch anyone on the head, and avoid pointing the soles of your feet towards another person or any Buddhist statues – both signs of disrespect in Buddhist culture. 

9. Don’t lose face 

As in many other parts of Asia, Vietnamese culture places considerable emphasis on "saving face" – in other words, avoiding situations that might cause individual or collective loss of dignity and respect. Public outbursts and arguments can cause everyone involved to lose face, so keep a sense of perspective, and try not to get angry when confronted by inconveniences as you travel. 

10. Do right with your chopsticks 

There are several taboos associated with using chopsticks. Leaving your sticks sticking upright in a bowl of food is considered unlucky, as it resembles offerings of incense sticks made for the dead. Using chopsticks of uneven length is also frowned on, as is tapping your bowl with your sticks (associated with beggars requesting alms). If you eat in a group, use clean chopsticks (or the reverse ends of your own chopsticks) to pass food to others.

11. Eat like a local

Food is practically a religion in Vietnam, but locals focus their energy on the evening meal, where multiple dishes are shared between diners, with the whole family getting involved. Rather than ordering a single main course, choose a spread of dishes for the table and sample a rich mix of flavors and textures. If you need a boost between meals, street food snacks can be found everywhere, or just grab a nutritious sinh tố  (fruit shake) or a cup of local drip-brewed ca phe (coffee).  

12. Don’t go overboard with displays of affection

Public displays of affection are not a big part of Vietnamese culture, for couples of all orientations. Kissing, hugging and even holding hands in public can raise eyebrows, so tone down the romantic gestures while you’re in the country. On the plus side,  despite lingering legal inequality, LGBTIQ+ couples generally face few problems in Vietnam, and Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) both have lively scenes. 

13. Be a respectful photographer

Always ask before taking photographs of people, particularly in minority villages. Many people find it intrusive, and by asking first, you’ll know if people are comfortable being included in your travel photos. In tribal areas, some villagers ask for payment for photos, which is fair enough... how would you feel if strangers kept sticking a long lens into your front porch? 

14. Don’t get dragged into Vietnamese politics

Another time to think twice before pulling out your camera is during public demonstrations and political rallies. Critics of the government can face harsh punishments – demonstrations in 2018 against laws allowing the authorities to monitor online communications led to over 100 arrests. Play it safe – steer clear of political gatherings and avoid conversations about politics with local people. 

15. Be a fair bargainer

Haggling is a fact of life in Vietnam, particularly at markets and souvenir shops, and you may pay over the odds if you accept the first price suggested. However, bargaining should never be a confrontational process – treat it as a game and counter the starting price with a lower counter offer, and see how the seller responds. With a bit of back and forth, you should reach a mutually acceptable price – and if you don’t, you can always decline politely and try another vendor. There’s little point haggling over tiny sums of money – if you pay 5000 dong (US$0.20) over the going rate, consider that you can probably afford it.

16. Know your loos

Western-style sit-down toilets are increasingly common in Vietnam, but you’ll often have to pay to use public loos, and paper is rarely provided. Carry your own, or use the hose or water jug provided. Bring antibacterial hand gel or soap; many bathrooms only provide running water.  

17. Don’t let touts take you for a ride 

Commission-seeking middle men (and middle women) pop up almost anywhere tourists gather, and Vietnam has its share. Be wary of touts who encourage visitors to use certain tour agencies, hotels, shops and transport companies in touristy parts of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Hoi An. If you use their services, you’ll pay more to cover their fee.

18. Avoid the sex tourism industry

Sex tourism is an unwelcome legacy of the American War, but it’s usually easy to spot – and avoid – places where the sex trade takes place. Be wary of bars, karaoke lounges and massage parlors with scantily clad staff and lots of pink or red neon. Note that some hotels refuse to allow foreign men to share rooms with Vietnamese women – which can lead to headaches for genuine couples with an Asian partner. 

19. Give drugs a pass

Illegal drugs aren’t hard to find on the traveler circuit in Vietnam, but the penalties, if you’re caught by the police, can be severe – even for possession of small amounts. Many travelers have ended up in Vietnamese jails for drug offenses, and the death penalty can be applied in drug cases. If you are inclined to toke while you travel, it’s only a short hop to Thailand , where the consumption of marijuana in food and drinks has been decriminalized for now.  

20. Shop responsibly 

Vietnam has some wonderful crafts and art forms that make for great souvenirs, but stick to modern pieces; it’s illegal to take antiques out of the country. Also be watchful for souvenirs made from animal parts, such as shell, horn, bone, teeth and feathers. Such items are usually taken from wild animals, and you could fall foul of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) . 

21. Be smart about crime, not anxious

Opportunistic crime can occasionally be a problem, particularly in crowded cities where pickpockets and bag-snatchers on motorcycles take advantage of the unwary, but this isn’t a problem unique to Vietnam. Activate your big city precautions, and watch your belongings on busy public transport or in bars and cafes (using a phone or laptop at an outside table is unwise). Handbags with a single strap are a popular target for ride-by bag snatchers – a daypack or messenger bag is a better option.  

22. Be wary of American War ordnance

Horrifying volumes of munitions were dropped over Vietnam during the American War, and unexploded ordnance continues to kill and maim people every year. Well-traveled areas are usually safe, but be cautious about stepping off roads and paths in rural areas. Don’t climb into bomb craters and never touch old explosive devices – they can remain deadly for decades. 

23. Be typhoon smart

Vietnam is hit by periodic typhoons between May and November, with the biggest risk of storms from August to September. If you travel during the typhoon season, monitor local weather reports, and head inland from the coast if a direct hit by a big storm is predicted. In the event of flooding, contact your embassy or consulate and follow advice from the local authorities. 

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Vietnam travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: March 27, 2024 07:48 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, vietnam - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Vietnam due to high rate of petty crime.

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Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs frequently. It’s most prevalent in larger cities and may increase during major public holidays, such as Tet (Lunar New Year).

Criminals work alone or in groups and may use various techniques to distract you and steal your belongings. They may try to grab your bag and other valuables while passing on a motorbike or slash your bag in crowded streets and markets. 

Theft is frequent:  

• in popular tourist areas
• in markets, shopping centres and commercial streets
• on public transportation including sleeper trains
• in transportation hubs such as airports and train stations
• in restaurants, including patios and outdoor cafés
• at beaches and seaside destinations

While travelling:

• ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• keep a digital copy of your identity and travel documents
• avoid showing signs of affluence or wearing expensive jewellery 
• avoid carrying large sums of cash
• avoid isolated areas, especially at night
• pay attention to your surroundings, particularly in crowded and tourist areas
• be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs

Violent crime

Although violent crimes targeting foreigners are rarer, they may occur. In some cases, criminals have used weapons such as knives and razors. Threats of physical injury related to personal disputes also occasionally occur.

• If you are involved in a dispute, contact the police as soon as possible
• If you are threatened by robbers, don’t resist

Residential break-ins

Residential break-ins occur, especially in large cities and may increase before and during the Tet holiday (Lunar New Year). Burglars may target houses or apartments rented or owned by tourists and foreigners.

• Stay in accommodations with adequate security measures  
• Make sure you lock doors and windows at night and when you’re away

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Sexual assault and harassment do occur, including:

• in beach destinations
• in bars, nightclubs and entertainment districts
• on taxis and public transportation

Local authorities may not always respond adequately to reports of sexual violence and harassment. If you are a victim of sexual assault:

• seek immediate medical assistance, whether or not you appear to have been physically harmed
• contact the local police and ensure they file a report
• inform consular officials at the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate

Advice for women travellers

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit and debit card as well as ATM fraud occurs frequently.

• Avoid using your credit card in small establishments
• Consider using a card with a small credit limit
• Cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• Pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• Avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• Use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• Check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Cybercrime occurs. Perpetrators may compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal credit card or personal information.

• Avoid using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks
• Avoid making purchases on unencrypted websites
• Be cautious when posting information on social media
• Be especially vigilant if you decide to meet someone you met online
• Don’t click a suspicious link in an email or text message asking for your credit card details

At the airport

Criminals posing as taxi drivers have targeted foreign visitors at Nội Bài International Airport in Hanoi and robbed them by forcing them to withdraw money from ATMs.

Travellers have also been robbed by drivers who greeted them upon arrival with a placard showing their name.

• Arrange your pickup with your hotel before arrival, or use authorized airport taxis
• Confirm the driver’s identity and the licence plate before getting in the car

Gambling scams

Tourists have been victims of gambling scams in Hanoi, as well as in Ho Chi Minh City, particularly in the Pham Ngu Lao neighbourhood.

The scam consists of a friendly invitation sent to the victim to go to someone’s home in order to meet a relative interested in visiting Canada. While waiting for the relative, the scammers suggest a casual game of cards involving an initial small wager. Some victims have lost thousands of dollars over the course of an evening.

Be wary of unsolicited proposals from strangers.

If you’ve been scammed:

• get to a safe location immediately
• take note, as soon as possible, of the name and address of the facility where you were held
• notify the police and obtain a report
• if a bank card was involved, report the scam to your banking company, which will likely request a copy of the police report to cancel the transaction

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Snacks, beverages, gum and cigarettes may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

• Be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
• Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers

Unregulated alcohol

Some people died after consuming unregulated and adulterated rice wine due to high levels of methanol.

• Be cautious if you choose to drink alcohol
• Only consume reputable alcohol brands
• Avoid buying alcohol from individuals or street vendors
• Seek medical assistance if you begin to feel sick

Alcohol, drugs and travel

Demonstrations

Current situation in dak lak.

An increased police presence in Dak Lak continues, after organized attacks on a police station in June 2023.

If you are in the area, do not photograph security forces.

Public demonstrations are rare since local authorities don’t usually authorize them. Demonstrating without authorization can lead to heavy consequences, including lengthy prison sentences.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Don’t photograph demonstrations
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Internet censorship and surveillance

Within the Vietnamese territory, local authorities block access to several:

• social media
• search engines
• online services

You shouldn’t expect internet privacy.

Local authorities may monitor your communications at any time. They may review the content stored or consulted on your electronic devices. They may also place certain foreigners under electronic surveillance. They can search your home or hotel room without your knowledge or consent.

Cyber security while travelling

Foreign journalists and other media workers in Vietnam may face considerable restrictions in the context of their work. The Vietnamese government may employ measures such as:

• physical and electronic surveillance
• delaying or refusing renewals of press cards and visas
• intimidation and harassment

Be particularly vigilant if researching or reporting on subjects critical of or sensitive to the government.

Landmines and war remnants

Landmines and unexploded ordnance still pose a serious risk in several areas, particularly:

• in the province of Quảng Trị
• along the border with Laos
• in North and Central Vietnam

Unmarked minefields are common. If you plan travelling outside of major tourist destinations:

• pay attention to signs indicating the possible presence of landmines
• remain on paved roads
• avoid open fields, roadside ditches, shoulders and unmarked trails
• report any suspicious items to local authorities

Adventure tourism

Outdoor activities, such as trekking, zip-lining, rock climbing, speleology, or parasailing and other adventure activities can be dangerous if unprepared. Trails are not always marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly, especially during the rainy season.

Tour operators may not always adhere to international safety standards.

If you intend to practice adventure tourism:

• never do so alone, and do not part with your expedition companions
• consider hiring an experienced guide from a reputable company 
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be setting out  
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation   
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity  
• avoid venturing off marked trails  
• ensure that you’re adequately equipped and bring sufficient water   
• stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard  
• refrain from using facilities or equipment if you have doubts on their safety  
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary  

Water activities

Tidal changes and strong winds can cause hazardous currents and riptides.

Swimming and diving

Beaches are not always supervised.

Corals, sea urchins, jellyfish and other aquatic life found along reefs may be poisonous. A sting to the touch can cause poisoning or infection.

If you plan to dive:

• choose a reputable company 
• always respect warning flags advising of dangerous conditions
• ask about the presence of dangerous species
• seek immediate medical attention in case of injury
• wear swimming shoes to protect yourself from reefs, rocks, corals or sea urchins
• keep a safe distance from boats and restricted areas
• avoid beaches or coastal areas during periods of severe weather warnings
• avoid diving into unknown waters, as hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death
• follow the advice of the local authorities

Boat accidents have occurred due to the overloading and poor maintenance of some vessels, including in Ha Long Bay.

• Choose a reputable boating company
• Ensure that your tour operator follows up-to-date safety regulations
• Don’t board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy

Water safety abroad

Although rare in Vietnam, pirates commit attacks and armed robbery against ships in coastal waters.

Live piracy report  - International Maritime Bureau

Road safety

Road safety is poor throughout the country. 

Fatal accidents are frequent. They frequently involve motorcycle and pedestrians are commonly victims.

Always use elevated walkways or pedestrian bridges when available.

Road conditions

Road conditions are poor throughout the country.

Driving can be dangerous due to:  

• poorly maintained roads and vehicles
• traffic jams and heavy traffic, especially in urban areas
• potholes 
• slippery roads during the rainy season

Driving habits

Drivers don’t always respect traffic laws.  

Some vehicles, especially motorcycles, drive against the flow of traffic and on the sidewalks.

If you plan to travel by car in Vietnam, you should consider hiring a driver.

If you choose to drive:

• always drive defensively
• avoid travelling after dark or during adverse weather conditions
• avoid driving a motorcycle
• Make sure you have proper insurance and a valid licence

Public transportation

Official taxis are generally safe.

Motorcycle taxis (known as “xe oms”) are not safe.

• Avoid motorcycle taxis
• Use only official taxis or a trusted ridesharing app
• Negotiate the fare in advance, or insist that the driver use the meter
• Never share a taxi with a stranger
• Be familiar with your hotel’s address and the neighbourhood to avoid being brought to a wrong location

Bus and coach accidents are common.

Trains are generally reliable.

Thefts have been reported on certain train lines, including sleeper trains.

Ticket stub is required to exit the train station. Passengers without a ticket stub will be required to pay the fare again.

Retain your ticket stub when travelling by train.

Ferry accidents have occurred due to the overloading and poor maintenance of some vessels, particularly on the line connecting Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau.

Don’t board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy.

Transport within Vietnam - Vietnam Tourism

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Vietnamese authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Vietnam.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: required Business visa: required Student visa: required Work visa: required

E-visa authorization

If you have a valid Canadian passport, you may be eligible to apply online for an e-visa. This can be a single-entry or multiple-entry electronic tourist visa, valid for a maximum of 90 days. It allows you to enter Vietnam via the port of entry indicated in the visa approval notice only. Some restrictions apply.

For visits longer than 90 days, you must get a visa from the nearest Vietnamese embassy before departure.

Apply for an e-visa  - Immigration Department of Vietnam

Visa exemptions

Canadian spouses or children of Vietnamese citizens may be eligible for a visa exemption certificate.

Contact the Embassy of Vietnam in Canada for more information on this process.

Visa extension

You must have a visa to enter Vietnam.

If required, you can request a visa extension at:

• the Vietnam Immigration Department in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City
• certain local travel agencies and tour companies

Vietnamese visas in expired Canadian passports are not valid. The visa needs to be transferred to the new passport.

Overstaying your Vietnamese visa or having the wrong type of visa is a serious matter. You may be delayed from onward travel until a fine is paid.

Check the visa validity and conditions carefully.

Registration

You must report your presence to local authorities upon arrival.

Commercial accommodations will generally file the declaration on your behalf. If you're staying in a non-commercial accommodation, you must do so with the nearest police station.

Make sure you request the return of your passport once it has been registered by hotel staff.

The hotel staff may ask to see your passport at check-in. They may make copies of it. They may also insist on holding your passport until you leave. There is no legal reason for this.

• Never leave your passport or any other ID document with anyone
• Ask for your documents to be returned to you as soon as check-in is complete

Travel restrictions

Travel near military facilities is restricted:

• in some parts of the central highlands
• in some border area

If you wish to visit a village, commune or ward that is close to the border, you must obtain permission from the provincial police department.

Contact the relevant local authority to confirm these requirements.

Health screening

Upon entry, you may be subject to a body temperature check.

Vietnamese authorities may place an exit ban on certain individuals to prevent them from leaving the country.

An exit ban can relate to investigations into:

• an individual, their family or an employer
• criminal and civil matters, such as business disputes or motor vehicle accidents
• employment without a valid work permit
• unpaid financial debts

It is difficult to obtain information on bans from Vietnamese authorities. An exit ban can be requested by people involved in any of these circumstances. You may not be aware that authorities have placed an exit ban on you until you try to leave the country. Your passport may be seized until the case is fully investigated and settled.

If you're unable to leave the country because of an exit ban, consult a lawyer and contact the closest office of the Government of Canada.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Mpox (monkeypox): Advice for travellers - 20 February, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Rabies treatment is often available in this destination. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain.  It is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is very low for most travellers. Travellers at relatively higher risk may want to consider vaccination for JE prior to travelling.

Travellers are at higher risk if they will be:

• travelling long term (e.g. more than 30 days)
• making multiple trips to endemic areas
• staying for extended periods in rural areas
• visiting an area suffering a JE outbreak
• engaging in activities involving high contact with mosquitos (e.g., entomologists)

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

• visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
• working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
• hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
• working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
• working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is limited. The quality of care varies greatly throughout the country.

Both medical facilities and supplies are limited outside of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Private clinics and hospitals are usually better equipped. Services can be expensive, but they usually have qualified medical staff who speak English or French well.  Emergency and ambulance services response times may be slow du to traffic congestion. In case of emergency, you may consider taking a taxi or private vehicle to go to the hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

Medical evacuation is very expensive. You may need it to neighbouring countries in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining their legality in Vietnam.

• Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you
• Always keep your medication in the original container
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage
• Carry a copy of your prescriptions

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

No transfer of offenders treaty exists between Canada and Vietnam. If you’re convicted of a serious crime, you must serve your jail sentence in Vietnam. You may also have to remain in Vietnam for a parole period after your release.

Penalties for possession, use, production or trafficking of drugs, including cannabis, are severe. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines, jail sentences or the death penalty.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identification

Local authorities may request to see your ID at any time.

• Carry valid identification or a photocopy of it at all times
• Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place in case it’s lost or seized
• Keep a digital copy of your ID and travel documents

Gambling outside of licensed casinos is illegal in Vietnam.

You must hold of a foreign passport to gamble in these licensed establishments.

Political activities

There are severe restrictions on political activities, including:

• participating in public protests
• publishing messages critical of the government on social media

If you engage in political activities you may face detention, deportation and travel ban to Vietnam in the future.

Photography

Photography of sensitive installations is prohibited. This includes:

• military sites
• border crossings

These sensitive areas are not always identified.

• Refrain from photographing military installations or personnel even if no sign is posted
• Comply with all requests from local authorities

Religious activities

There are restrictions on certain religious activities, such as preaching, distributing literature and associating with unapproved religious groups.

Sexual and intimate activities

As a foreigner, you are not allowed to invite Vietnamese nationals of the opposite sex into your hotel room to stay overnight unless you are married.

You are allowed to stay with a Vietnamese family only if you have obtained permission from local authorities.

Importation, possession and distribution of pornographic material is illegal.

Exportation of antiques

Vietnamese law restricts the export of antiques, but these laws are vague and unevenly enforced. If you purchase items that may be considered as antiques:

• keep receipts and all paperwork provided by the seller
• ensure you have the proper exportation permits from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Vietnam General Department of Customs

If you can't present the required paperwork, the items may be confiscated.

Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Vietnam  (in Vietnamese)

Dress and behaviour

The Vietnamese society is conservative.

When visiting religious and culturally places to avoid offending local sensitivities:

• dress conservatively
• behave discreetly
• respect religious and social traditions
• seek permission from locals before photographing them

Tet celebrations

The lunar new year is celebrated between the end of January and the end of February. Theses celebrations usually last several days and can have an impact on the availability and provision of essential services such as:

• banking services
• public services including healthcare
• food distribution

Plan your trip accordingly if you travel to Vietnam during this period.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Vietnam.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Vietnam, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Travellers with dual citizenship

Mandatory military service

Canadians with Vietnamese citizenship may be subject to mandatory military service and other national obligations.

Confirm this requirement before travelling to Vietnam.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Vietnam.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Vietnam by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Vietnam to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Doing business in Vietnam

Disputes related to business agreements or arrangements are costly and take time to resolve. You may be subject to a travel ban restricting you from leaving the country until matters are resolved.

If you plan on doing business in Vietnam:

• seek legal advice in Canada and in Vietnam before making commitments
• choose your own lawyer
• ensure that all documents are translated so that conditions, terms and limitations are well understood

There are many teaching opportunities in Vietnam. However, make sure you are well informed before signing a contract.

• Consult a local lawyer or professional
• Ensure that the contract specifies the maximum number of classroom hours per day and per week, maximum workdays per week, and vacation periods
• Confirm the living arrangements if any are included
• Ensure that you possess the right visa for the activities you will perform
• Ensure you understand any liabilities linked to early termination of a contract

You must hold a valid Vietnamese driver's licence to drive a vehicle with an engine of 50CC or more. This includes most motorcycles. Motorcycle drivers and passengers must wear a helmet.

The country has a zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving or cycling. Penalties for drinking and driving or cycling include:

• licence suspension
• heavy fines

If you are involved in a traffic accident as a driver, you may:

• face criminal charges as a driver
• have to pay compensation to the victims
• face a travel ban preventing you from leaving the country until compensation is paid

There are restrictions on vehicles crossing from and into neighbouring countries.

Contact the Department of Transport in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City for information on for licences or restrictions.

Department of Transport in Ho Chi Minh City (in Vietnamese)

The currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese dong (VND).

Cash declarations

Upon arrival, you must declare if you have:

• more than 15 million Vietnamese dong, more than US$5,000, or the equivalent in any other currency, in cash
• more than 300 grams of gold, including jewellery, gold bar and raw gold

Upon departure, you must:

• declare if you have more than 15 million Vietnamese dong, more than US$5,000, or the equivalent in any other currency, in cash
• present a written approval to carry foreign currency or Vietnamese dong in cash abroad, issued by an authorized Vietnamese credit institution in accordance with the laws on foreign exchange control or the State Bank of Vietnam

Rainy season

The rainy season extends:

• from June to September in the north and south
• from October to December in central Vietnam

Seasonal flooding occurs in October and November in central Vietnam. It’s also common:

• in and around Hanoi, particularly along the Red River
• in the Mekong River Delta regions in the south

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable due to mudslides and landslides. Bridges, buildings, and infrastructure may be damaged.

• Remain vigilant, especially in areas around major rivers
• Stay away from flooded areas
• Monitor weather reports
• Monitor local media for the latest updates, including those on road conditions
• Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
• Mekong Flood and Drought Forecasting  - Mekong River Commission
• Forecasting  - National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting

Typhoons usually occur from June and December. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major typhoons.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.

If you decide to travel to Vietnam during this period:

• know that you may expose yourself to serious safety risks
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad

Humidity and heat may be severe, particularly during the rainy season.

Know the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, which can both be fatal.

Forest fires may occur.

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from affected areas, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel
• monitor local media to stay informed on the evolving situation

Air pollution

Smog and other types of air pollution can be hazardous in urban areas. Air quality can also be affected in rural areas due to agricultural burning.

Air pollution levels can change quickly.

During periods of high pollution:

• limit your outdoor activities, especially if you suffer from respiratory ailments or have pre-existing medical conditions
• monitor local media
• follow the instructions of local authorities
• Air pollution in Hanoi  - World Air Quality Index
• Air pollution in Ho Chi Minh City  - World Air Quality Index

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 113
• medical assistance: 115
• firefighters: 114

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Vietnam, in Hanoi, or the Consulate General of Canada to Vietnam, in Ho Chi Minh City, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Is Vietnam Safe? A Comprehensive Traveler’s Guide

Updated on: February 16, 2024

Vietnam, a land of breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, beckons travelers from around the globe. While it’s an exciting destination, understanding the safety landscape is crucial for any visitor. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to stay safe in Vietnam while enjoying the wonders of this wonderful country.

Is Vietnam Safe?

Vietnam is relatively safe when it comes to serious crimes.  However, petty theft and scams are not uncommon in tourist areas. Keep your belongings secure and stay aware of common tourist-targeted scams.

Petty Crime in Tourist Areas

• Pickpocketing and Bag Snatching : These are the most common crimes that tourists might encounter, especially in crowded areas like markets or tourist hotspots.
• Safety Measures : Use anti-theft bags, avoid displaying expensive jewelry or gadgets, and be cautious when using smartphones in crowded places.

Scams and Overcharging

• Common Scams : Tourists might encounter scams such as rigged taxi meters, overpriced tours, or street vendors charging exorbitant prices.
• Avoiding Scams : Agree on prices before services are rendered, use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps, and book tours through trusted agencies.

Essential Tips to Stay Safe in Vietnam

• Stay Vigilant : Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in busy markets and streets.
• Scam Awareness : Be wary of common scams aimed at tourists, such as overpriced tours or goods.
• Weather Awareness : From May to October, the monsoon season brings heavy rains and potential flooding, particularly in central and northern regions. Coastal areas, especially in central and northern Vietnam, can be affected by typhoons. Stay updated on weather alerts and follow local advice on evacuations or safety measures.

Safety in Major Cities

Hanoi : This bustling area is safe for tourists, but be vigilant against pickpocketing and bag snatching. Hanoi’s traffic is notorious. Exercise extreme caution when crossing streets and consider using pedestrian bridges where available.

Ho Chi Minh City: While exploring Bui Vien Street, the popular backpacker street, be mindful of your belongings, especially at night when the crowd swells. Be cautious of motorbike scams and overcharging by taxis. Using ride-hailing apps like Grab is recommended for safety and fair pricing.

Da Nang: Da Nang’s beaches are relatively safe. However, avoid secluded areas, especially after dark, and be mindful of your belongings when swimming. Tourist police in Da Nang are approachable and provide assistance in English in case of any concerns.

Traffic and Transportation Safety in Vietnam

Vietnamese traffic is notorious for its density and unpredictability, particularly in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City .

Traffic and Transportation Tips

• Pedestrian Safety : Always be alert when crossing streets; motorcycles and cars may not always follow traffic signals.
• Transport Choices : Use reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing apps like Grab. Verify the taxi’s authenticity before getting in.
• Traffic Accidents : In case of a traffic accident, try to move to a safe area and contact local police. Avoid confrontations with other parties involved.
• Rental Vehicle Accidents : If you’re renting a vehicle, inform the rental agency immediately after any accident.

Health and Medical Care

While healthcare in Vietnam’s major cities is of good quality, facilities in rural areas may lack certain medical services.

Health Precautions

• Travel Insurance : Opt for comprehensive travel insurance that covers health emergencies, trip cancellations, and loss of belongings.
• Medical Access : Carry a basic first aid kit and be aware of how to access healthcare services, especially if traveling to remote areas.
• Vaccinations and Medications : No vaccinations are required, but it’s recommended to have shots for Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus.

Is Vietnam safe for Women and Solo Travelers?

Vietnam is considered safe for women and solo travelers . However, like any travel destination, certain precautions are essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Safety Measures

• Avoid Isolated Areas : Especially at night, stick to well-lit and populated areas.
• Dress Appropriately : Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
• Local Interactions : Vietnamese people are generally friendly and hospitable. However, be cautious when making new acquaintances and avoid sharing too much personal information.
• Group Activities : Joining group tours or activities can be a great way to meet fellow travelers while exploring safely.

Areas of Caution

While Vietnam is broadly safe, certain areas might require extra caution, such as remote border regions or areas with less tourist traffic.

Travel Advice

• Stay Informed : Keep up with local news and travel advisories, particularly for areas near borders.

Emergency Procedures and Contacts for Staying Safe in Vietnam

Knowing what to do in an emergency is crucial for any traveler in Vietnam.

• Police : Dial 113 for the police in case of theft, accidents, or safety threats.
• Medical Emergencies : Dial 115 for an ambulance. Be aware that ambulances might have limited medical equipment compared to Western standards.
• Fire Services : In case of a fire, dial 114 immediately.

Final Thoughts

Vietnam is a captivating destination that can be enjoyed safely with proper awareness and preparation. Whether exploring the bustling streets or the serene countryside, knowing these safety tips will ensure a memorable and worry-free experience.

Street food is generally safe , but choose vendors that are popular and where you can see the food being prepared.

It’s advisable to drink bottled or boiled water , as tap water may not be safe for drinking.

Contact local authorities immediately and seek medical attention if needed . Inform your embassy if serious.

Yes, but be prepared for heavy rains and potential flooding in certain regions . Always check weather forecasts.

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• Health and Safety

Parks in Hanoi. Photo by Aaron Joel Santos

Vietnam has been ranked one of the safest countries in the world for travellers, however it always pays to be prepared. These health and safety tips will help you travel Vietnam with greater peace of mind. Also below is a list of public and private hospitals for easy reference. 

Health tips for travelling vietnam.

Before you go

Before traveling to Vietnam, be sure to purchase insurance for your trip. Two months before you leave, you should also consult your doctor or local travel clinic for the latest information on health risks in Vietnam and to receive any  vaccinations you may need. 

Pregnant women should consult their doctors for specialised advice. Anti-malarial drugs and many diarrhoea treatments are not completely safe during pregnancy.

If you have a medical condition or allergy of which requires particular attention, carry a doctor’s letter with you that describes the nature of the condition and treatment needed. We also recommend you pack a medical kit with:

• DEET-based insect repellent
• Paracetemol or ibuprofen for pain relief
• Anti-itch ointment, such as hydrocortison
• Antihistamine for allergy treatment, such as zertec, benadryl
• Bacitracin for wound care , such as neosporin
• Diarrhoea treatment, such as imodium

Some medications can be difficult to find in Vietnam: be sure you travel with a full supply of any prescribed medicine you need.

Hospitals in Vietnam

Major cities such as Hanoi, Danang , and Ho Chi Minh City have a number of state-owned and private hospitals with English-speaking staff. While small pharmacies are common in almost any Vietnamese city, in the rural areas you may be far from the nearest pharmacy or hospital. 

COMMON HEALTH ISSUES IN VIETNAM 

Pollution in vietnam.

Air pollutants may aggravate asthma and allergy symptoms. Symptoms include scratchy throat and nasal drip. For anyone with respiratory ailments, invest in a small mask while travelling around metropolitan areas, or plan to spend more time in the countryside if possible.

Mosquito-borne diseases

The risk of contracting malaria is heightened in the rural highlands. Consider taking anti-malarial medication if you plan to travel to any remote destinations in Vietnam. Dengue fever has become increasingly problematic in Southeast Asia and occurs mostly in the Mekong Delta, including Ho Chi Minh City. With no vaccines available, the best preventive measure is to wear bug spray during the hours of sunrise and sunset.

Heat concerns

Vietnam tends to be hot and humid year round. Don’t underestimate the strength of the sun. Sunburn can happen quickly: it's best to wear sunscreen throughout the day. Be vigilant with reapplication, especially at beachside destinations. Dehydration is another concerns, as well as heat exhaustion, which may show up in symptoms such as headaches and irritability. Drink plenty of water . Heatstroke is a more serious consequence of overexposure to sun and may require hospital treatment. If you're feeling weak, dizzy, nauseous, and have a temperature of over 41°C, get medical help immediately.

Food-related illnesses

Traveller’s diarrhoea is a common concern when in new countries. Stick to bottled water and avoid ice in rural areas. To avoid contracting bacteria, look for restaurants with a high turnover of customers and those that prepare freshly cooked food. Generally street food in Vietnam is quite safe, but always use your own judgement when choosing from vendors. If you experience stomach upsets or diarrhoea, take rehydration salts and stay hydrated. If the problems persist, seek medical attention.

Critter bites  

These are sometimes an issue when when staying in hostels and other shared dormitories, and sometimes even in hotels. Seek help at the nearest clinic if you're suffering from the bites of  fleas , bed bugs , and/or lice . Be on the lookout for  rabies when in contact with animals, wild or domesticated. Avoid the monkeys on Cat Ba Island when touring Ha Long Bay. When jungle trekking, be wary of ticks, leeches  and poisonous snakes lurking in the undergrowth. Seek medical assistance immediately if bitten.

SAFETY TIPS FOR TRAVELLING VIETNAM

Petty theft

Vietnam is a relatively safe country, however petty theft is a legitimate concern, especially in the big cities. Refrain from extending cameras and cellphones on busy streets and corners: most robberies are drive-by snatchings . When taking pictures on sidewalks, keep your camera close to your body and away from the flow of traffic.

Women in particular should be warned to keep a tight grip on their bags and purses when walking in Ho Chi Minh City. When riding a motorcycle, place your bags in the seat compartment or hook them in the front of the bike. Bags carried around the shoulder or in bike baskets can easily be snatched.

When staying in hotels and guesthouses, place your valuables in the safe or lock them in your bags before leaving your room. It is a good idea in general to be mindful of your valuables, keep a close eye on your bags and not to flaunt large amounts of cash or expensive gadgets in rural areas.

Unfortunately, if you find yourself the victim of theft, little can be done by law enforcement to recover stolen belongings.

Taxi scams in Vietnam take the form of rigged meters, overcharging, confusing currency and fixed prices. Two trusted companies you can rely on are Mai Linh and Vinasun . Both of these taxi companies have new vehicles and sealed metres, they also have a pick-up service that works in most Vietnamese towns and cities. You can look for them as soon as you land in Vietnam's international airports. 

Tourist Scams

Vietnam is constantly improving its tourism services, however there are still some agents and independent operators who flout the rules. When booking cruises on Halong Bay, always go with reputed companies. For tours around Vietnam, book with vetted travel agents as opposed to hole-in-the-wall establishments to avoid being scammed.

For Female Travellers

Vietnam is generally a safe country to travel and female travellers will find themselves welcome. The Vietnamese are still quite conservative, so it's best to respect the local culture by not baring too much skin. Solo female travellers can expect to be approached with questions about why they are travelling alone. The enquiries are usually harmless and borne out of curiousity. Crime against women is uncommon in Vietnam. Nonetheless it's wise to not be alone on the streets late at night, and to take a taxi if you're heading back late. 

International hospitals in Vietnam

Columbia Asia

No. 8, Alexandre de Rhodes, Bến Nghé, District 1, Bến Nghé, Vietnam

+84 8 3823 8888

www.columbiaasia.com/vietnam

Family Medical HCMC

Diamond Plaza, 34 Le Duan, District 3, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam

+84 8 3822 7848

+84 8 3822 7859

www.vietnammedicalpractice.com

FV Hospital

No. 6 Nguyễn Lương Bằng, Tân Phú, District7, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam

+84 8 54 11 33 33

+84 8 54 11 33 34

www.fvhospital.com/en

International SOS

No.167A Nam Ky Khoi Nghia street, district 3, HCMC, Vietnam

+84 8 3824 0777

+84 8 3829 8551

www.internationalsos.com

Yersin International

No. 10 Truong Dinh - Ward 6 - District 3 - HCMC

+84 8 3933 66 88

+84 8 3930 46 64

www.yersinclinic.com/

Victoria Healthcare Vietnam

152 Nguyen Luon Bang, Tan Phu, District 7, HCMC, Vietnam

+84 8 3910 4545

www.victoriavn.com

Family Medical Practice Hanoi

Van Phuc Compound, 298 Kim Ma Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, Vietnam

+84 4 3843 0748

+84 4 3846 1750

vietnammedicalpractice.com

Hong Ngoc Hospital

55 Yen Ninh, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, Vietnam

+04 8 39 275 568

www.hongngochospital.vn

L’Hopital Francais de Hanoi

No.1 Phuong Mai, Dong Da District, Hanoi, Vietnam

+84 4 3577 1100

+84 4 3576 4443

www.hfh.com.vn

International SOS Hanoi

51 Xuan Dieu Street, Tay Ho District, Hanoi, Vietnam

+ 84 4 3934 0666

+84 4 3934 0556

Viet Duc Hospital

40 Trang Thi Street, Hanoi, Vietnam

+84 4 3825 3531

www.vietduchospital.edu.vn

VINMEC International Hospital

458 Minh Khai Street, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi, Vietnam

+84 4 3974 3556

+84 4 3974 3557

www.vinmec.com

Family Medical Danang

96-98 Nguyen Van Linh Street, Hai Chau District, Danang, Vietnam

+84 236 3582 699

+84 236 3583 049

Hoan My Danang Hospital

161 Nguyễn Văn Linh, Thạc Gián, Q. Thanh Khê, Da Nang, Vietnam

+84 236 3650 676

www.hoanmy.com

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Vietnam Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Vietnam.

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Vietnam.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Vietnam.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Japanese Encephalitis

Recommended for travelers who

• Are moving to an area with Japanese encephalitis to live
• Spend long periods of time, such as a month or more, in areas with Japanese encephalitis
• Frequently travel to areas with Japanese encephalitis

Consider vaccination for travelers

• Spending less than a month in areas with Japanese encephalitis but will be doing activities that increase risk of infection, such as visiting rural areas, hiking or camping, or staying in places without air conditioning, screens, or bed nets
• Going to areas with Japanese encephalitis who are uncertain of their activities or how long they will be there

Not recommended for travelers planning short-term travel to urban areas or travel to areas with no clear Japanese encephalitis season. 

Japanese encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine for US Children

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Vietnam take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Vietnam.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Vietnam. However, if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Vietnam, rabies treatment is often available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Vietnam. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite
• Avoid Bug Bites
• Mosquito bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

Avian/bird flu.

• Being around, touching, or working with infected poultry, such as visiting poultry farms or live-animal markets
• Avoid domestic and wild poultry
• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Vietnam, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Vietnam. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Some diseases in Vietnam—such as dengue, Zika, and filariasis—are spread by bugs and cannot be prevented with a vaccine. Follow the insect avoidance measures described above to prevent these and other illnesses.

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Vietnam include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Vietnam. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Vietnam’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Vietnam. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Vietnam may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Vietnam, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Vietnam, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Vietnam .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

To call for emergency services while in Vietnam, dial 115 for an ambulance, 114 for the fire department, and 113 for the police. Write these numbers down to carry with you on your trip.

Learn as much as you can about Vietnam before you travel there. A good place to start is the country-specific information on Vietnam from the US Department of State

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Vietnam for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Safety and security

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Vietnam

Although there’s little history of terrorism in Vietnam, attacks can’t be ruled out.

You should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those visited by foreigners.

Political situation

Vietnam has a single-party political system, which does not welcome people disagreeing with the government. Some protests in recent years have turned violent or been violently suppressed by the authorities. Avoid all protests.

Protecting your belongings

Pickpockets and bag snatchers operate in crowded areas and places visited by tourists. Take care of your belongings and consider splitting important items between bags.

Do not give your passport to others as a guarantee – for example, to motorcycle rental shops or landlords. Companies can hold your passport against claimed damage.

There is a risk of petty theft on buses and trains, particularly while asleep on overnight trains.

Sexual assault

British nationals have reported rape and sexual assaults in tourist areas and places where foreigners live. Women have also reported indecent assaults and harassment. These include inappropriate touching and groping, particularly while walking alone.

In Vietnam there is a higher burden of proof for victims than in the UK. Victims must show they did not consent, particularly if they drank alcohol or knew the alleged attacker.

See advice for women travelling abroad and information for rape and sexual assault victims in Vietnam .

Be cautious about offers of free bus transfers to hotels, unless organised in advance. These may be scams.

Landmines and unexploded weapons

Landmines and other unexploded weapons are a hazard in former battlefields. Areas of particular risk include central Vietnam and along the Laos border, formerly crossed by the Ho Chi Minh Trail. Mined areas are often unmarked.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal id.

It is a legal requirement to always carry photographic ID. You should carry a photocopy of the photo page of your passport with your personal details and visa and leave the original in a safe place.

Illegal drugs penalties

Penalties for possessing, distributing or manufacturing drugs are severe. You can get a death sentence if you’re found with even small amounts.

Illegal drugs are often tampered with or spiked and can be much stronger than in Europe. British nationals in Vietnam have suffered severe psychiatric problems because of drug use.

LGBT+ travellers

Vietnam is a generally tolerant and progressive place for LGBT+ travellers. There are no criminal penalties for same-sex relationships and changing gender. Same-sex marriage is not recognised by law.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Respect local customs and dress in appropriate clothing when entering religious or cultural sites. This usually means covering your shoulders and knees. Signs informing you of the dress code outside religious or cultural sites are common.

Money change counters

Only change money at official money exchange counters with a clear sign showing this status. Changing money elsewhere is illegal and you risk losing your money.

Some rice wines sold without recognised brand names can have very high and sometimes fatal levels of methanol.

Wildlife, animal products and souvenirs

It’s illegal to buy, sell, kill or collect protected wild animal or plants. If you’re caught buying or trafficking these items, you could get a fine or long prison sentence.

Restricted areas

There are restrictions on travel near military bases.

If you want to visit a village, commune or ward close to the border, you may need permission from the provincial police department. Contact the local authority for more information.

Using cameras near military bases

Do not take photos near military bases in Vietnam.

Legal system

Crimes like sex and drug offences can attract very long prison terms or a death sentence. The Vietnamese legal system is not well developed, and the standard of prisons is very poor.

Reporting a crime to the police can be a long and difficult process. Consider taking a Vietnamese-speaking person with you to assist with the translation. You’ll usually have to sign documents in Vietnamese. Take care to only sign accurately translated documents. Find an English-speaking translator or interpreter in Vietnam .

If you are under criminal investigation, you can be detained for long periods without evidence. There can be long delays before you can contact lawyers, British consular officials or family. Legal representation is far below UK standards.

Foreign nationals involved in traffic accidents have been stopped from leaving Vietnam until the police have completed their investigations. This process can take a long time, and foreign nationals have been asked to agree out of court financial settlements. FCDO advises you to get professional legal advice and representation if you are in this situation. Find an English-speaking lawyer in Vietnam .

Internet access

There are sometimes restrictions on internet use, which can temporarily affect access to social media websites. Most social media sites are normally available.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

British nationals have died or been injured in Vietnam while engaged in adventure tourism in rural and mountainous areas.

Risks include:

• dangerous terrain
• remote areas that are difficult for rescue services to reach
• flooding, swollen rivers and landslides, especially during the rainy season
• lower safety standards than in the UK

You should:

• follow safety guidelines
• stay on main routes
• take a reputable guide – in some places it is illegal to go without a guide
• use approved adventure tourism companies - check local authority websites
• check weather forecasts
• make sure your travel insurance covers your planned activity

Illegal tour guides have been known to offer tours and activities prohibited under local regulations.

Firearms activities

If you take part in leisure activities involving firearms, make sure a reputable guide supervises you. There is a risk of hearing loss.

Transport risks

Road travel.

If you are planning to drive in Vietnam, see information on driving abroad and driving rules in Vietnam .

You’ll need to have both the correct version of the international driving permit and your UK driving licence with you in the car.

Compliance with road laws is poor – keep your speed down and stay alert.

It is illegal to drive without third-party insurance.

Drink-driving is a serious offence in Vietnam. If you are tested and found to have any alcohol in your system, you may get a fine and possible imprisonment.

Do not use your passport as a deposit for hiring vehicles or as a guarantee you will pay a fine for a traffic offence.

If you’re involved in an accident or subject to an investigation, you could face criminal charges and may need to pay compensation to injured people, even if the injuries are minor. Offer the police your full co-operation and inform the British Embassy in Hanoi or Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City .

Motorbike safety

Travelling by motorbike in Vietnam is much riskier than in the UK. Motorbike accidents are common and have killed and injured British nationals.

Do not drive a motorbike if you’re not an experienced rider.

If you plan to drive a motorbike, you should:

• check your motorbike thoroughly
• rent from a reputable organisation
• use a good helmet – it is illegal for drivers and passengers to ride without a helmet
• know the roads on which you plan to travel

Make sure your travel insurance covers your planned activity.

Metered taxis from larger firms are generally reliable. There are many taxi operators and meters are set at different prices. The meter should start at around 8,000 to 20,000 Vietnamese dong, depending on the size of the taxi and the taxi company.

Where possible get hotels or restaurants to book you a reputable taxi. Always make sure the driver identifies themself before setting off. If you book a taxi online or through an app, make sure the details of the vehicle and driver match those given by the company.

There are regular reports of overcharging for taxi journeys in tourist areas like the Old Quarter of Hanoi, Hanoi airport and Ho Chi Minh City’s airport. For added peace of mind, book taxis using the Grab app, which is similar to Uber.

Buses and coaches

Bus and coach crashes are not uncommon and more likely at night. Vehicles are often poorly maintained. Night bus drivers may become tired but continue driving, resulting in sometimes fatal crashes.

Safety regulations and standards vary and are not the same as in the UK. Check with your tour guide about the safety record and registration of boats, and the certification of staff. Make sure you get a full safety briefing and have a life jacket when joining any boat.

Consider safety standards carefully before taking an overnight boat trip on Halong Bay. Some boats have sunk quickly and without warning.

Piracy in coastal areas of Vietnam is very rare. See piracy and armed robbery at sea .

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Tropical cyclones.

Tropical cyclones affect the eastern coastal regions of Vietnam.

• strong winds
• heavy rainfall
• disruption to transport

The season normally runs from May to November, but tropical cyclones can happen at other times. Monitor approaching storms on the National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting and Japan Meteorological Agency websites. Follow the advice of the local authorities, including any evacuation orders.

Vietnam has a tropical monsoon climate. There can be large amounts of rain in short periods of time. Localised flooding, flash floods and landslides are common. Take care if you are trekking in rural and mountainous areas.

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Is Vietnam Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

• Vietnam : Safety by City
• Ho Chi Minh City

Vietnam is a gorgeous country, known for breathtaking natural beauty, a heavy load of history and Buddhist temples and pagodas so beautiful they are worth taking the trip.

It is located in Southeast Asia, between China to the north and Laos and Cambodia to the west.

During the last couple of years, Vietnam slowly became widely popular, and each year there are more and more tourists coming to visit from all over the world.

Violent crime in Vietnam is rare, and as a tourist, your main concern should be a petty crime such as pickpocketing, bag-snatching or cell phone theft.

Generally, if you respect Vietnamese culture and show common courtesy and kindness towards the people there, any arguments or misunderstandings can be easily avoided and your trip should go smoothly.

• Warnings & Dangers in Vietnam

OVERALL RISK: LOW

Vietnam is a relatively safe country to travel to. Its main source of income is tourism, so the tourists' safety is their number one concern. The capital city, Hanoi has 6 million inhabitants, so street crime is more common there.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Means of transport and taxis aren't very safe in Vietnam. Many taxis in Saigon and Hanoi have previously installed rigged meters that charge up to 2 to 8 times more. Your best chance is taking a taxi from reputable companies such as Mai Linh and Vinasun in Saigon. You should consult some guidebooks and travel forums before you travel to Vietnam that will prepare you for petty scams. There is also a very popular scam where the buses break down and the tour operators force people to pay considerable amounts for crummy hotels "while the bus is repaired".

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

Pickpocketing and bag snatching is a very common issue in Vietnam, especially on the side of the roads where motorbike snatching may occur. Keep your belongings by your side at all times and try to leave all your valuables in a security deposit box of your hotel.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

Natural threats include rare earthquakes and occasional typhoons (from May to January) with extensive flooding, especially in the Mekong River delta nearly every year. Vietnam is occasionally also devastated by storms and typhoons that can cause millions of dollars of damage. In case of a natural disaster, follow the instructions of local authorities.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

There are some areas where cases of mugging have been reported, it is generally rare, and foreigners are rarely targeted.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

There is a low probability of a terrorist attack, however, they should never be ruled out so be vigilant and watch out for suspicious activities.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

There is a number of scams performed on tourists in Vietnam, such as gambling scams where, if you do venture in gambling, there is a great risk you will be scammed or ripped off or karaoke scams: since prostitution is forbidden, you can find prostitutes in various karaoke bars, which are actually one big scam and their clients often get ripped off, drink spiked and robbed. Apart from these scams, you can get overcharged by everyone: street vendors, taxi and bus drivers, hotel owners and worst of all - the police. Double-check every information and pay, or negotiate everything in advance.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

Sexual assaults are common in Vietnam, especially in the following cities: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Sapa, and Cat Ba Island. Avoid overnight trains and buses, and parts of cities that are filled with bars and clubs, since there is a higher chance of running into intoxicated people. Follow basic common sense and avoid walking alone at night and in poorly lit and secluded areas.

• So... How Safe Is Vietnam Really?

Vietnam is generally a safe country.

Violent crime is rare, but lately robberies, assaults, and harassments started occurring, often involving weapons.

However, the most common risk for tourists remains petty crime such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, and valuables theft, usually not involving violence of any kind.

Tourists should avoid fights and shouting of any kind because people of Vietnam think of shouting as an insult and in such situations, one never knows what their reaction is going to be.

A general rule of thumb is that if you respect this country’s culture and customs, you should have no problems or incidents.

One of the common issues in Vietnam is motorbike snatching.

This usually involves thieves on motorbikes snatching pedestrians’ bags, mobile phones, cameras, and jewelry.

They especially target foreigners and it happens mostly in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Nha Trang, and it is a crime committed so regularly that even local Vietnamese are commonly targeted.

Also infamously common are thefts of valuables left on popular beaches.

Never leave your bag or anything of value unattended on beaches.

In hotel rooms, including five-star ones, there have been reports of stolen belongings including wallets, cameras, cell phones, and jewelry, so put everything of value in a security deposit box.

As for streets, they are generally safe but there are areas that should be avoided, such as parts of cities filled with clubs and bars that are usually filled with suspicious individuals.

Sexual assaults and robberies are more probable in these places, so be cautious and avoid these places late at night.

Also, petty crime is most common in Vietnam’s capital Hanoi, so be aware of your surroundings at all times when you visit this enormous city.

Avoid purchasing liquor from street vendors since they may not be authentic, and bear in mind that drugs in Vietnam can be laced with toxic ingredients and potentially fatal.

• How Does Vietnam Compare?
• Useful Information

All US citizens wishing to visit Vietnam will need to apply for a tourist visa and no earlier than six months before their planned departure. Your passport should be valid for at least six months past your date of return. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need a visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.

The Vietnamese Dong is the official currency in Vietnam. We recommend changing your money in post offices, banks or larger hotels. Airports also offer a convenient exchange rate.

Weather in Vietnam depends on the region you're at. For example, in Hanoi, it is its capital, summers last from May to October, and winters, mostly dry and mild, last from November to April with average temperatures from 17-22°C. In central Vietnam the weather is hot and dry from January to August, reaching temperatures as high as 30°C. The period from September to October is a rainfall season. Southern Vietnam is mostly dry and hot between November and April, and the rainfalls are common from June through August.

The busiest airport in Vietnam is Tan Son Nhat International Airport, located in Ho Chi Minh and a close second is the Noi Bai International Airport in the country's capital, Hanoi.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Vietnam, since it covers not only the costs of medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.

Vietnam Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Vietnam - Safety by City

Explore vietnam.

• 11 Best Beaches in Vietnam
• 4 Most Dangerous Cities in Vietnam
• 11 Best Zoos & Aquariums in Vietnam
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• Where to Next?

14 Reviews on Vietnam

Been to Hanoi in 2016, got scammed by the locals. They suddenly pulled my sandal, patched it. and forced me to pay absurd amount USD50. Taxi drivers are crazy. Roads full of motorcyclist. The people are not friendly. The only one who is being nice, is the on who’s trying to scam you. My word of advice, don’t be nice to the locals.

Or anyone else .

Wondeful country

Most Vietnamese people are very friendly with foreigners. Go to famous places and restaurants to get the most reasonable prices for foreigners. Vietnam bans the use of guns and has a very low crime rate. There has never been any serious terrorist incident in Vietnam in the last 4 decades.

Be respectful to all

Should bargain for prices prior purchases. Custom in Vietnam or anywhere in the world we should show humble attitudes in exchanges between human to humans, the will be fine!

nice country, nice people

I love Vietnam, I just randomly picked this country to go to. Spent there 6 weeks, traveled across the country. Your experience may vary. To me Vietnam is on safer side of countries list. If you looking for trouble you will find one. People are very nice, even they speak no or very limited english. Biggest crime in big cities is definitely motorcycle snitching. Especially phones. That can be avoided though by not holding your belonging on the road side, when you walk on sidewalk. I traveled by every possible transportation in Vietnam. I can recommend Grub as motorcycle/car taxi app.for bigger cities. Works same as Uber. Buses, airplanes, etc… very safe and clean…If you use your common sense you’ll be fine. Definitely safer country than USA mostly small crimes , chance someone will directly attack you or try to fight you is very unlikely unless you provoke someone.Rate of crime always scales with size of the city.- my general rule, worldwide

Been to Vietnam twice I found the people very friendly except for the taxi drivers. I stayed in Ho chi minh city for a week, got scammed by the taxi driver with the switching of notes, rode the buses from the city to the tunnels (2.5 hr trip for 50 cents return) with no problems. Then took a flight to De Nang and a taxi to Hoian where we stayed for 2 weeks hired a scooter and drove around on that visiting different places without any bother whatsoever. I found that the locals we’re very friendly and helpful, so i returned the following year.

This is what actually ruined my last trip. The taxi drivers are just looking to scam people. I don’t know why. It was not an issue for my when I went there several years ago but in recent years, they just seem to want to take advantage of people. Everyone else is perfectly fine and very welcoming. The areas I was in were clean, safe, and quiet.

Have been to Vietnam upwards of a dozen times, it’s an extremely safe country, scooter drive bys where they snatch your phone out of your hand is common, only ride with 2 major taxi companies. Typical overcharging and street scams are common in the tourist hubs. Avoid prostitution. The country essentially runs on bribes, if you get pulled over by the cops just pay the few hundred dong and go on with your day, it’s common even for locals, not worth the fuss for $10. Men, especially older ones do have old fashioned views on women there but IMO is a very safe country for even solo women traveler’s.

Vietnam is no fun. It is so loud everywhere. I am in Da Lat right now and I won’t leave my hotel anymore. I’m physically sick from the noise. The authorities scare me. I’ve been put through the ringer with fees at the airport with a male authority figure. People yell at me everywhere like I owe them something. In contrast Thailand was heaven on Earth. Even in Bangkok when it’s so busy with traffic it is quiet. I got smiles instead of being looked at like a piece of meat. Vietnam is no fun

Travel to Vietnam

Don’t go to VN , very dirty places , rubbish every where , Ha noi and Saigon if rain then flooding and stinking smell , food is not safe , street food is cheap but hygiene is not there , prepare yourself for stomach aches and diarrhea. Thieves , scammers are everywhere , everything you buy is hustling by Vietnamese , bad peoples all because they are poor which lead them to do bad thing . It is not a safe country to travel , I phone , iPad , computer , camera …. Is need to carry with you when leave hotel, if not when you back they all gone and no one take responsibility including hotel owner for your lost . Worst is lost all your money /passport . Trust me I’m Vietnamese born and grown up there but living in Australia , now and then go back to visit my country but Vietnam today is a bad place and unsafe place .

We didn’t stay at the hotel we booked. The noise of the music downstairs of the hotel was so loud. We asked them to move us to other place. But before we must paid to them. Surprisingly the price we booked from an app, they said was only for 2 hours. That’s impossible. We booked for days, not in hours. What we could do was pay. I was so sure they corrupted. The price became 3 times of the price given by the app. I wrote to this app about this hotel. The rate about the hotel were from 1 to 10. I would like to give 0 point. Actually lots of cases that make me want to tell everyone not to come to Vietnam. The policemen stopped our car ( no taxi)at the airport. No idea why. We rent a car, they have their office inside the airport. Means legal. But the policemen asked husband’s passport and made the picture. They acted like we were criminals. Others, they said husband has 1 day extra in Vietnam ( prohibited?) That made him must paid fine of 50€. I forgot to take a bottle of water from husband’s small suitcase. Again the policeman asked his passport and wrotedown his name. Why must write down? In Spain it any countries only asked throw the bottle. Nothing else. Husband said he couldn’t come to Vietnam in 3 years. Without any warning we will not come anymore. Vietnam is not the only place in this world. Don’t ever think you are included the best countries to visit. But included the worst countries to visit.

Don't bother waste of a trip

I would never go back. The people are very scammy and to be honest the whole experience was perfectly horrible. I found even the European tourists (mostly Russian) as rude as the locals. All in all very scary and incredibly sad place to spend your hard earned money. I am well traveled and I get why people may like it as the beaches are beautiful and the food was passable – I hope you have strong stomach as you will get sick at least once from food. If you want to go to a beautiful place go to Okinawa.

Very good place

I went for a holiday in Vietnam and honestly it was very fun the locals were very honest one time I almost forgot my bag in a restraunt but someone reminded me. Something very rare in countries and apart from that there were many activities and things to see. The reason Im not giving it 5 stars is because many times people are trying to scam you from selling stuff but it is easy to bargain.

WHY DOES PEOPLE ARE SOOOOOO RUDE!

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Is Vietnam safe to travel to? What you need to know to discover this country

Find all the answers about safety that you need to plan your trip to Vietnam in 2023.

Jessica Jessy Around The World

Jan 09, 2024

Vietnam is a wonderful country in South East Asia . It’s generally known to be one of the most visited by travelers and backpackers when you think about this part of the country. Compared to other continents, Asia is easy to travel to and people are very friendly. Vietnam makes no exception.

Vietnam is one of the favorite countries of travelers that go to Asia. People are so friendly and resilient, food is very delicious and the places are simply amazing , from famous sceneries like Halong Bay to beautiful cities like Hanoi and Hoi An . Vietnam has so much to offer.

But, like every time you have to leave for a trip to an unknown country, you start to think about safety because you are starting a new adventure and it’s normal to have some fears and worries. Is Vietnam safe ? This is the question that you may be wondering, and this is the place where you will find all the answers you need to plan your trip without stress. 

If planning a trip around Southeast Asia, you might also want to read: Is Indonesia safe? and Is Cambodia safe to visit?

How safe is traveling to Vietnam?

Vietnam is a pretty safe country , like all the countries of South East Asia in general. People are very friendly, they always try to make you feel at home , they want to help you in every way they can and you should never have any problem. The crime rate in Vietnam is not very high, especially crimes towards travelers and tourists.

Of course you have to be careful like in every other country in the world. When you are in big cities or on public transport, you have to keep your belongings safe because it’s always possible to find some pickpockets around.

You also have to be aware of scams, because these are the most common problems that happen to tourists and travelers . A very common scam to travelers is making them pay higher prices than the prices local people usually pay. It can happen everywhere, in shops, in street food kiosks, and sometimes even in restaurants. So you really must be careful with scams if you don’t want to waste your money.

If you rent a motorcycle , which is very common among travelers because it’s one of the best ways to explore Vietnam, you need to be very careful when driving, especially in big cities, because traffic can be very crazy and accidents can occur at any time, especially among tourists because they are not used to Vietnamese traffic . Trust me, it’s something else. You need to keep an extra eye open and drive carefully and slow. 

The thing travelers risk the most in Vietnam is getting sick . 

It’s common to get sick when drinking tap water because it is not very safe to drink for people from overseas. It is also common to get sick when eating street food because sometimes we are not used to new food and our body could take a while. You have to be very careful when you eat , what you are eating, where you are eating, and the water you are drinking. 

Be aware of ice, because sometimes it is made with water that is not drinkable, that’s why a lot of travelers get sick when drinking smoothies or cold drinks with ice. 

Apart from these general risks that are common to many other countries in the world, Vietnam will make you fall in love . Every year it is the favorite destination of thousands of travelers, it is often picked as a destination for a full-time trip  by digital nomads  and travelers that want to find their inner peace.

Vietnamese food is simply delicious, you don’t have to be too afraid of the food, you just have to enjoy it because it’s one of the best in Asia. And the people are very lovely.

If you are planning a trip to Vietnam, relax and enjoy it, because it will be great. You just need to follow some very easy safety tips, keep reading to discover them.

Safety tips for travel to Vietnam

So, is Vietnam safe to travel to ? The answer is yes . But you’d better follow some very simple tips that can help you to live a safer experience and can avoid some unpleasant situations during your trip. 

1. Keep your belongings in a safe place

When you travel it is better not to take all your belongings with you everywhere. You can leave most of your money and credit cards locked in your hotel room and take only the amount you really need. 

When you travel on public transport you’d better keep your wallet, camera, and phone in a secure place , where it is harder for a pickpocket to reach them.  

2. Be aware of scams

Scams are pretty common in Vietnam . It is not something dangerous or too bad if it happens, but you would waste your money and it would be pointless. You can however do the best you can to avoid them.

You should always ask the price beforehand when you are purchasing something and if you are eating try to look at a menu with all the prices or ask some locals how much should a certain thing cost and tell the vendors that you know the real price. Try to look a bit expert about pricing and when you can, try to haggle.

3. Be careful about where and what you eat and drink

Don’t drink tap water , it is not safe most of the time. If you are in doubt, don’t drink it. Buy closed water bottles or refill your own in places where you are absolutely sure it is safe to drink from. Most of the time travelers get sick because of water. 

This is valid even for ice because it is often made with water which is not safe to drink. When you order smoothies or cold drinks, if you are not sure about the water, order them without ice.

Be careful when you eat, especially street food. Street food in Vietnam is amazing , but it’s better to go where all the locals go and the most crowded place is usually the best one, and it’s safe. 

And remember, if you eat meat and fish, never eat them raw. Always check if they are well cooked. And of course, don’t wash vegetables and fruits with tap water.

4. Don’t be too suspicious and enjoy your trip!

Sometimes bad things happen even because we never stop thinking for the worse. Once you know the most common safety tips, you just have to relax and enjoy your trip. People are nice, the world is a beautiful place, and it’s better to enjoy it than keep thinking about all the bad things that could happen.

So, don’t be too suspicious and enjoy Vietnam, make friends with local people and other travelers and you will have a great time. 

Is Vietnam cheap? 

In general, Vietnam is a very cheap country . 

You can stay in hostels which are known to be cheap, but you can even stay in very beautiful hotels without spending too much money.  

You can eat street food every day and it’s so cheap that you don’t even need to have your own kitchen in your accommodation to cook because it’s definitely affordable to eat outside every day. Just be careful with restaurants, because the most touristic ones are not that cheap. Follow the locals if you want to eat cheap and eat real local food.

Public transport is very cheap too and you can travel around the country by bus with no problem for your budget. If you prefer more freedom, you can rent a motorcycle, which is very common and it's a good option for some money-saving.

Keep reading:  Is Vietnam a cheap country to travel to? Travel costs, daily budgets and money-saving tips

And since we're talking about money, let me ask you this: Did you know that you can even enjoy free accommodation during your travels? All you have to do is volunteering . 

When you volunteer , in exchange for some hours of work per day, you get free accommodation and sometimes free board. It’s a very good way to have a good social impact in the countries you visit and also to meet local people and other travelers like you. 

Let me introduce you to  Worldpackers , a platform in which you can look for volunteering opportunities all around the world. All the hosts you find on the platform are verified and you can apply to as many positions as you like. Of course Worldpackers has a lot of volunteering positions in Vietnam too.

If you want to live a different kind of experience during your trip to Vietnam, help local communities, and meet a lot of people, plus get some advantages such as free accommodation, then volunteering is the best thing you can do.

There are these positions to teach English in Vietnam to kids in Hanoi and  Kinh Mon , and be helpful to the communities. Also in Hanoi, you can assist in a daycare for disabled children .

Take into account the visa requirements

Although applying for a Vietnam visa is a quick and easy formality, don’t leave this for the last minute, and read about the visa requirements for Vietnam well in advance. The Vietnam Visa is subject to certain conditions regarding your nationality, passport and travel itinerary. If you meet all the requirements, you can submit your application by filling in an online form and you will receive your Vietnam visa by email in just a few days.

Now you know the answer to your question. Is Vietnam safe to travel to? Yes, it is . Just keep your eyes open, be careful, and start to enjoy your trip to this amazing country. And if volunteering sounds good for you, don’t forget to subscribe to one of Worldpackers plans to start doing it!

Join the community!

Create a free Worldpackers account to discover volunteer experiences perfect for you and get access to exclusive travel discounts!

Jessica Lazzarini

Jessy Around The World

an Italian full time traveler. After years planning my full time travel, I finally quit my 9 to 5 job to start exploring the world with a one way ticket. My goal is to visit as many countries as I can and to work as a digital nomad while I am traveling, but also to challenge myself doing travel jobs in the places I visit. I really want to live a lot of different experiences in a way only a real traveler can do.

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Crime in Vietnam – Is Vietnam safe to travel?

Vietnam is generally a safe country to travel to, with a relatively low crime rate compared to many other popular tourist destinations. While petty theft and scams can occur, violent crimes targeting tourists are rare. By taking basic precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings, using reputable transportation services, and being aware of your surroundings, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable trip to Vietnam.

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Faq crime & safety, is vietnam safe to travel.

The short answer is yes, Vietnam is generally safe for travelers, and the rate of crime targeting foreign visitors is relatively low. In fact, Vietnam is often considered safer than many Western countries. While incidents can occur, they often involve petty theft or scams rather than violent crime or harassment. By exercising basic caution and taking necessary precautions, you can enjoy a safe and memorable trip to Vietnam.

The biggest danger in Vietnam is not crime, harassment, or common scams but rather the traffic. If there is one thing to be cautious about, it’s the chaotic road conditions. Take the time to read this guide about road safety to ensure you are well-prepared for navigating the roads in Vietnam.

Most common crimes in Vietnam towards travelers

1. The most common and significant petty thefts in Vietnam involves thieves on motorbikes grabbing items from unsuspecting people. Tourists are particularly vulnerable to this type of theft, as they often use their phones on the side of the street to film the chaotic traffic or check navigation directions. To stay safe, it’s crucial to exercise caution by securely holding your phone and avoiding standing too close to the traffic. It’s best to be discreet while using your phone in public and remain aware of your surroundings at all times, especially in busy areas.

2. Exercise caution in crowded areas to guard against pickpockets, even though incidents are relatively less common than in big European cities.

3. Keep your valuables such as cash, credit cards, and airline tickets in a secure place, and avoid wearing conspicuous jewelry that may attract unwanted attention.

4. Opt for reputable tour agencies when planning your travels to ensure a reliable and trustworthy experience.

5. Exercise increased caution during nighttime activities, as you may encounter risks such as drunk driving, motorbike racing, or street altercations, although foreigners are not often targeted by Vietnamese crime, you can accidently end up in between it.

6. Stick to well-known taxi services like Grab or reputable taxi companies to ensure a safe and reliable transportation experience. Avoid unknown taxi providers or independent motorbike taxis.

7. Be cautious of scams and tourist traps. Be wary of overly friendly locals who approach you with offers that seem too good to be true. Do your research and be cautious when dealing with street vendors, tour operators, and individuals offering services.

8. Read our list of most common scams in Vietnam .

Female solo travelers in Vietnam can enjoy a safe and enriching experience. Vietnam is generally considered a safe destination for women traveling alone, with low levels of violent crime towards tourists. For detailed information and specific tips read our guide about female solo travelers in Vietnam .

To ensure a smooth journey, it is recommended for female solo travelers to exercise common sense and take basic precautions. While Vietnam is a relatively liberal country, it is still advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting more conservative areas. Respecting local customs and traditions can help create a positive and respectful interaction with the local community. Additionally, it’s important to stay vigilant, keep an eye on your belongings, and be cautious of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas or at night.

Is there a terrorism threat in Vietnam?

There is no regional or international terrorism threat or concern in Vietnam.

Is there political unrest in Vietnam?

Vietnam is a politically stable country, and cases of political unrest are uncommon. The government maintains a strong presence and focuses on maintaining order and security.

Yes, Vietnam is generally considered a safe country for travelers. The crime rate is relatively low, and violent crimes targeting tourists are rare. However, it’s always important to exercise caution, take necessary precautions, and be aware of your surroundings to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

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Covid-19: Is it safe to travel to Vietnam right now 2024?

Discover Vietnam, a safe and must-visit destination in Southeast Asia with a vibrant culture, fascinating history, stunning natural scenery, and incredible beaches. Despite some petty theft and road safety issues, Vietnam remains a generally safe country for all types of travelers. The country has also been praised for its effective response to the COVID-19 outbreak, with a low number of confirmed cases compared to other countries.

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COVID-19: The state of coronavirus in Vietnam

Covid-19 impacts on your travel, precautions when visiting vietnam right now, is vietnam safe to visit right now.

Vietnam is a classic destination on the route through Southeast Asia. The culture is vibrant, the history is fascinating, the cities are mad, nature is stunning, and those beaches… amazing.

We’re going to come out and say it, Vietnam is safe for travelers. Millions of people each year visit this country – and increasingly not only intrepid backpackers! Couples on a long holiday, retirees, families; all sorts of people are coming to Vietnam.

Vietnam does suffer from some problems that are endemic of poorer countries. Petty theft can be an issue, especially in Saigon, but it actually has a very low crime rate. Scams may be common, but the worst that is likely to occur is your bag, phone or tablet being snatched by a scooter-riding thief.

On that note, the roads, in general, aren’t all that safe and motor-related fatalities are more common than anything else.

As far as COVID-19 outbreaks go, Vietnam has been praised for how quickly it has jumped to stamp out potential hotbeds before they occur.

As of 12 March 2020, there are 44 confirmed cases in the country, putting it in the 40th spot in the rankings of countries with the highest number of infections. To put this into perspective, Australia sits at number 21 on the list with 127 confirmed cases.

Earlier this month, Vietnam temporarily suspended the visa-free regime for Italy and South Korea as a preventative measure and further suspensions were announced on 9 March for the citizens of Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Norway, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom. Australians are required to apply for a visa.

Have you travelled through mainland China, Hong Kong, South Korea, Italy or Iran within the past 14 days? Travelers arriving from or have transited through mainland China, Daegu and Gyeogsangbuk will be refused entry while those who’ve entered Vietnam from or having transited through the other areas will be required to carry out medical declarations and medical declarations upon entering the country.

Travelers showing potential symptoms of COVID-19 may be placed in a 14-day quarantine at a designated health facility.

Can you still safely enjoy a holiday in Vietnam? The official word from The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is yes. As of 11 March, DFAT has not changed its risk level which is ‘Exercise normal safety precautions’.

That said, it’s worth noting travel around the country won’t be uninterrupted. In response to the outbreak, a number of festivals and events such as Yen Tu Festival in Quang Ninh and Tam Chuc Festival in Ha Nam have been cancelled or postponed. While ancient sites and tourist attractions remain open, some pedestrian zones around Hanoi and Hue will remain closed until the situation improves.

Local authorities have requested any traveller experiencing symptoms of the virus, be it fever, dry cough and/or difficulty breathing should self-isolate and call Vietnam’s health hotline immediately on 19003228.

If there’s one thing the Vietnamese do well (aside from their superior cuisine), it’s their public service announcements.

Need a giggle? Vietnamese health officials and lyricist Khac Hung have produced an animated music video titled ‘Jealous Coronavirus’, calling on viewers to wash their hands regularly and thoroughly, avoid large crowds and refrain from touching their faces.

The World Health Organization (WHO) also recommends keeping your distance from those showing signs of illness, using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer where possible and practizing respiratory hygiene such as covering your nose and mouth when you sneeze and cough and disposing of your tissues thoughtfully.

If you’d like to the message to sink in through a less serious format however, the PSA can be seen here.

Yes – Vietnam is absolutely safe to visit. Let’s just say the numbers speak for themselves. Everyone seems to be traveling to Vietnam these days.

If you’re curious about the country, looking for a good place to start a Southeast Asia trip, or it’s your first trip travelling alone, Vietnam is a great first-time destination for solo travellers.

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Is Vietnam safe to travel? 12 things you should know when you visit Vietnam

Vietnam is a long-stretching, beautiful, historically and culturally rich and amazing country, and there are a few things that every person should know before they pack their bags and head to Vietnam.

Vietnam is a friendly and safe place to travel. With a sprinkling of common sense, your trip should be  smooth and trouble free. Tourists usually complain about over-aggressive street vendors, tour operators with a bad attitude and dangerous driving. However, with a cool head and sensible planning, one can avoid these problems.

• Greetings are no different to western countries, there are no cultural formalities that as a foreigner you would be expected to know or practice.
• Vietnamese dress conservatively. Despite the heat, it’s best not to show off too much skin. If you do, especially girls, you’ll only draw stares from the locals.
• Dress well when visiting pagodas. No shorts or tatty beer t-shirts. Shoes are fine, and rarely will you have to remove them. If unsure, just follow what the locals do.
• Drink plenty of bottled water, especially when walking around sightseeing. No need to carry huge bottles around with you, a vendor is never far away and no doubt they will find you before you find them.
• Keep your cash, credit cards, airline tickets and other valuables in a safe place.
• Travel with recommended tour agencies. Even if you plan to buy tickets when in country, research your journey a little first on the Internet. A good resource is Lonely Planet’s Thorn Tree Forum, where fellow tourists discuss travel in Vietnam. This way you avoid unreliable tour agencies and badly run hotels.
• Wear a lot of jewellery or take a bag with you. Violent crime is highly unusual in Vietnam, but petty crime is more apparent. If you have a bag, or tout a digital camera around your neck, you are a potential target.
• When taking a ride by motorbike taxi (xe om) make sure your bag, if any, is not on display or easy to grab. Bag snatches, although still rare, are probably the most likely crime a tourist would encounter, and it raises the probability immensely if you are tailing a camera or a laptop in the wind.
• Don’t wear singlets, shorts, skirts or dresses, or revealing clothes to temples or pagodas.
• Physical displays of affection between lovers in public are frowned upon. That’s why you may come across couples holding hands but not hugging or kissing.
• Losing your temper in Vietnam means a loss of face. Keep a cool head and remain polite, you’ll have a greater chance of getting what you want.
• Remember, this is Vietnam, a developing country, and things don’t quite work as you are maybe used to. Don’t be paranoid about your safety, just be aware of your surroundings.

See our first time guide to Vietnam for more guides and tips.

Overall, Vietnam is considered a safe country for tourists. While it is always important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, Vietnam is a wonderful destination that offers a wealth of cultural, scenic, and culinary experiences. By taking some simple precautions, travelers can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to this fascinating country.

Questions and Answers (01)

Are Australian dollars acceptable or are American dollars better?

@Doug wilson, The official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). While some restaurants or shops in tourist areas may accept foreign currencies (AUD, USD), it is generally recommended to use the VND for most transactions.

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Exercise normal safety precautions in Vietnam.

Vietnam (PDF 920.32 KB)

Asia (PDF 2.21 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies, advice levels.

Exercise normal safety precautions  in Vietnam.

• Road accidents are a major cause of injury. Be alert at all times on the roads. 
• Petty theft, including bag slashing, is common in tourist areas and crowded places, especially during holiday times. Snatch-and-grab theft by thieves on motorcycles is also common. Hold bags and backpacks in front of you or on the opposite side to the traffic to make them harder to steal. Be aware of motorbikes approaching as you walk. Carry the minimum amount of valuables. Be prepared to surrender your valuables rather than risk being injured in a struggle.
• Aggravated theft, sexual assault and assault happen. Travellers have been assaulted after having their food or drinks spiked. Pay attention when your drinks are being mixed. Get urgent medical help if you suspect drink spiking.
• Personal or commercial disputes sometimes lead to threats of physical violence or death. Have a clear agreement on the expected level of service. Report any threats to police.
• Travellers have been robbed withdrawing money from ATMs. Credit and debit card fraud and card skimming happen across Vietnam. Taxi and gambling scams are also common. Only use ATMs in banks and shopping centres. Always keep your credit card in sight. Use metered or prearranged taxis, especially at airports. Report gambling scams to police.
• During the rainy season (June to November), floods, typhoons and severe weather can disrupt essential services. Follow the advice of local officials.

Full travel advice: Safety

• Air pollution levels can be high in Vietnam, particularly in large cities.
• Insect-borne diseases such as dengue, Japanese encephalitis, malaria and zika virus are a risk. If you’re pregnant, discuss your travel plans with your doctor. Use insect repellent. Get vaccinated before you travel. Consider taking anti-malarial medication.
• Rabies occurs in Vietnam, especially in the north. It’s fatal without treatment. If you’re bitten or scratched by an animal, get medical help immediately.
• HIV/AIDS is a risk. Take precautions if you’re taking part in high-risk activities.
• Diphtheria is a risk. Ensure your vaccinations are up-to-date.
• Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is common. It mainly affects children and young adults. Foodborne, waterborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases include cholera, hepatitis and typhoid. Wash your hands well and often. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food.

Full travel advice: Health

• Don’t use or carry illegal drugs, including marijuana. Penalties for drug offences include the death penalty and life imprisonment. Never carry parcels or luggage for others.
• Get professional legal advice before signing any contract. If you're in a business or civil dispute, officials could stop you leaving Vietnam until it’s resolved.
• It's illegal to gamble in a non-government licensed casino or possess pornography. Non-state sanctioned political or religious activity or material, or involvement with groups perceived by the Government of Vietnam to be associated with dissident groups, is also illegal. 
• It’s illegal to export antiques without a permit. Get a permit from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (Vietnamese) . It’s illegal to photograph border areas or military sites. Be careful when taking photos.
• Possessing or distributing images or objects linked to the former Republic of Vietnam, including commemorative or Vietnam War service-related items, is an offence that could attract harsh penalties.
• Vietnam recognises dual nationality in limited situations. If you're a dual national, travel on your Australian passport. You may need to do compulsory military service. Contact your nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate for details.

Full travel advice: Local laws

• You must have an appropriate visa before travelling to Vietnam. You can  apply online  for an eVisa for tourism or business purposes. If approved, the eVisa allows for a stay of up to 90 days and is valid for multiple entries. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Vietnam for the latest details.
• You must check your details are correct when applying for a visa. The visa details must match exactly the information on your passport's biodata page, such as your full name and date of birth. Any errors or name omissions may result in you being refused entry. You may be charged a significant fee at check-in or on arrival to correct the visa error.
• If you're travelling with prescription medication, check the value and quantity restrictions on the import and export of prescription medication with the nearest  embassy or consulate of Vietnam .

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The Consular Services Charter details what the Australian Government can and can’t do to help you overseas.
• For consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in Hanoi , or the Australian Consulate-General in Ho Chi Minh City .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy’s social media accounts

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Petty crime.

Petty crime, street crime and harassment happen, especially in larger cities.

Bag slashing is common in tourist areas, at markets, on crowded trains and buses, and at supermarkets. It increases in the lead up to and during Vietnamese and Western holiday periods.

Thieves on motorcycles commit snatch-and-grab crimes against pedestrians. This happens often and sometimes results in injury.

Thieves steal valuables, such as jewellery, handbags, mobile phones and cameras.

To protect your belongings:

• take care crossing the street or walking along footpaths
• be aware of motorcycles approaching from behind as you walk on the footpath
• hold bags and backpacks in front of you or in ways that make them harder to snatch
• carry only what you need and leave other valuables in a secure location
• be prepared to surrender your valuables rather than risk being injured in a struggle

Violent crime

Aggravated theft, sexual assault and assault happen. Hot spots include:

• Ho Chi Minh City
• Sapa, especially on the train to and from Lao Cai
• Cat Ba Island, near Ha Long Bay

Reports of groping and other sexual assault are rising.

Drink spiking occurs. Foreigners have been robbed and sexually assaulted after having spiked food and drinks. This happens at late-night establishments in major cities.

To protect yourself from drink spiking:

• only drink alcohol at reputable places
• pay attention when your alcoholic drinks are being mixed
• stay with people you trust in bars and at nightclubs

If you think your drink or a friend's drink has been spiked, get urgent medical attention.

If you're a victim of a violent crime, especially sexual assault, get medical attention. There is a risk of contracting HIV/AIDS, hepatitis and other sexually transmitted diseases in Vietnam.

Although gun violence is uncommon in Vietnam, there have been isolated incidents in recent years. 

Travellers have been robbed after withdrawing money from ATMs.

Break-ins to hotels and private homes are reported. This happens even while guests are in their rooms.

To protect yourself from robbery :

• only use ATMs in banks and shopping centres
• make sure your hotel room is locked at all times, including when you're inside
• pay close attention to your personal belongings, especially in crowded areas
• be alert on overnight trains and buses and on quiet stretches of road

Report thefts straight away to the local police and hotel management.

Personal or commercial arguments sometimes lead to threats of physical violence or death.

If you're threatened with violence, report it to local police.

To avoid commercial disputes, have a clear agreement on what the expected level of service is.

Many travellers have become victims of credit and debit card, taxi and gambling scams .

Credit and debit card skimming is where card data is taken for use in fraudulent transactions. This happens throughout Vietnam.

Some Australians have lost thousands of dollars after accepting invitations to private homes from friendly locals. Beware of rigged card games and other confidence tricks organised by criminals.

Gambling may break local laws, which also apply to travellers. See Laws .

To avoid credit and debit card scams:

• keep your credit card in sight at all times
• don't share or show your PIN to others, especially when using ATMs
• check your transaction statements

At airports, use airport taxis, prearranged hotel transfer services, taxis from clearly marked taxi ranks with staff, or one reserved through a car booking app.

Check that any person holding a placard with your name on it knows where you are going.

Be careful of people who are overly friendly and invite you to their home.

If you're a victim of a gambling scam, report it to local police.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Civil unrest and political tension

Although rare, protests sometimes happen.

Don't take photos of demonstrations, the military or the police. Authorities may not tolerate this.

Some localised violent clashes between protesters and police have resulted in casualties. The most recent incident occurred in Đắk Lắk Province in June 2023, when several police were killed in organised attacks on police stations.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

More information:

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Tours and adventure activities

Transport and tour operators' safety and maintenance standards may not meet your expectations. This can include adventure activities, such as mountain climbing and boat trips.

If you plan to do an adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Climate and natural disasters

Vietnam experiences natural disasters and severe weather , including:

• flash floods

Severe weather events can disrupt air, sea, road and rail transport, electricity and communications.

If there's a natural disaster:

• always carry your passport in a waterproof bag
• keep in regular touch with family and friends
• check the media and other local sources for information
• follow the advice of local authorities

Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

Flooding and typhoons

Floods , flash floods, typhoons and severe weather are common during the rainy season, from June to November.

Flooding can lead to landslides including in built up and residential areas of towns and villages. 

Typhoons mostly affect the coastal areas of the north and central regions. Though less common, typhoons also happen in the south.

Monitor the media, and weather and flood level reports during the rainy season.

The Mekong River Commission gives information on flood levels for the Mekong River region.

If there's a flood, typhoon or severe weather:

• don't enter the affected areas without getting advice from local authorities
• check with tour operators before travelling to affected areas
• if in doubt about the safety of any location, change your travel plans. 

Large, frequent earthquakes in the region make destructive tsunamis more likely.

Be alert to warnings. A tsunami can arrive within minutes of a nearby tremor or earthquake.

To receive tsunami alerts, register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System .

Move immediately to high ground if advised by local authorities or if you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Do not wait for official warnings. Once on high ground, monitor local media.

If there's a tsunami or if a tsunami warning is current, check the US Tsunami Warning System .

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won’t pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you’ll be away

Physical and mental health

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up   
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

Some addictive and psychotropic medications are controlled.

If you plan to take medication, check if it's legal in Vietnam. Take enough legal medicine for your trip and always carry it in its original packaging.

If you are travelling with prescription medication, check the value and quantity restrictions on the import and export of prescription medication with the nearest embassy or consulate of Vietnam .

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Localised outbreaks of diphtheria can occur in Vietnam.

Seek medical advice to en sure your vaccinations are up-to-date.

• Diphtheria (HealthDirect)

Insect-borne illnesses

Zika virus  continues to be a risk. There's no vaccination for it.

If you're pregnant, the Australian Department of Health recommends you:

discuss any travel plans with your doctor

consider deferring non-essential travel to affected areas

Dengue  is found, especially in the south. There's no vaccine or treatment.

Japanese encephalitis  is also found. To protect yourself, consider getting vaccinated. A vaccine is available in Australia.

Malaria is a risk in some remote mountainous areas.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria

Discuss your travel plans and other vaccination needs with your doctor before you travel.

Infectious diseases

Rabies is potentially fatal if you don't get vaccinated or receive quick treatment.

Rabies is found in infected dogs, monkeys, bats and other mammals.

Most reported cases are in the mountain areas of northern Vietnam. It's most commonly passed on through dog bites.

To reduce your risk of rabies, don't go near dogs and other mammals.

If you're bitten or scratched, seek medical help immediately.

HIV/AIDS is a risk.

Take precautions if you engage in activities that expose you to risk of infection.

Hand, foot and mouth disease

Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is common. Sometimes more serious outbreaks happen.

Outbreaks usually peak from March to May and from September to December.

HFMD mostly affects children under the age of 10 years. Adult cases, especially young adults, are not unusual.

The illness appears as a fever, blisters and rashes on the hands, feet and buttocks.

HFMD is spread by direct contact with nose and throat discharges and faeces of infected people.

To reduce the risk of getting or passing on HFMD, pay close attention to hygiene. Wash your hands well and often.

Bird flu (avian influenza)

Human cases of avian influenza or 'bird flu' are reported in Vietnam.

Cholera and other health risks

Acute watery diarrhoea and cholera occur.  

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases occur. These include:

• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid uncooked and undercooked food, such as salads

Get urgent medical attention if you have a fever or diarrhoea or you suspect food poisoning.

Air pollution

There can be high levels of air pollution, up to and including hazardous levels, in major cities, especially during January to March. Pollution can increase the risk of breathing problems. People with pre-existing medical conditions, particularly heart and lung conditions, may be affected.

If you're concerned about the levels of air pollution:

• seek medical advice
• follow advice from local authorities about methods to reduce exposure
• monitor an air quality index
• reduce your exposure

World Air Quality

Drug use has been reported to cause psychotic episodes and hospitalisation.

If you use drugs in Vietnam, you face possible health and legal risks. See Local laws

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The standard of medical facilities and care varies, is generally below Australian standards, and may lack medicine and supplies.

Foreign private medical clinics are available in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang. They may not meet Australian standards.

Medical facilities and care at most public hospitals are poor. This is especially true outside Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

You may need medical evacuation to a major centre, even for minor operations.

Doctors and hospitals expect payment before providing medical services, including for emergency care.

Some hospitals may talk with your travel insurance company to secure payment. Others may need up-front payment before they will start treating you.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to Bangkok or Singapore. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You may need to show a legalised birth certificate to be recognised as next of kin for medical consent purposes.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Vietnamese authorities have broad powers to implement various measures to contain COVID-19. These include movement restrictions and mandatory isolation for positive cases. These can vary from province to province. Follow the advice of local authorities.

There are strict security and investigative measures to stop drug trafficking.

Penalties for all types of drug offences, including those with small amounts of drugs, are severe. Many drug offences attract the death penalty or life in jail.

Marijuana in any form is illegal.

More than 20 Australians are serving sentences for drug offences in Vietnam. More have been arrested and are waiting for further investigation or trials.

Never carry parcels or luggage for others.

For information about carrying prescription medications into Vietnam, see Travel .

Carrying or using drugs

Marriage laws

Foreigners who want to marry a Vietnamese citizen in Vietnam must get formal approval from the Department of Justice. This must be done in the province where the Vietnamese citizen is registered.

You also need a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage (CNI) if you plan to marry in Vietnam.

Apply for a CNI through the:

• Australian Embassy in Hanoi
• Australian Consulate-General in Ho Chi Minh City

You can also apply for the CNI from DFAT in Australia.  Fees apply. The embassy or consulate of Vietnam in Australia needs to authenticate it. Only then will the Department of Justice in Vietnam recognise it.

Getting married

Business laws

Increased Australian business activity has resulted in a higher number of commercial disputes in recent years.

If you're thinking about entering into a contract, get professional legal advice.

If you're involved in a business or civil dispute, authorities could stop you from leaving Vietnam until you resolve the matter.

• Doing business
• Doing business in Vietnam
• Living or working overseas

Disputes over alleged misrepresentation of working and living conditions for Australians working in Vietnam often happen. This is especially the case for people teaching English.

Before signing an employment contract or travelling to Vietnam for work, verify the true nature of the work you're offered.

Check for unacceptable employment conditions. For example, conditions for early termination may state that you surrender your right to a return air ticket. Your potential employer may also withhold your pay.

To safeguard your stay, also:

• check the living arrangements your potential employer has offered
• make sure you have the correct visa before arriving — ask an embassy or consulate of Vietnam
• get professional legal advice before signing any contract
• get all the work permits you need

The Australian embassy or consulate-general can provide a limited range of notarial services for some documents needed for a work permit.

Never hand over your passport to your employer, even for safekeeping. Reputable businesses won't ask you to hand over your passport.

Make sure you keep a valid visa and work permit. If you don't, authorities will fine you and could detain you.

Going overseas to live or work

Penalties for serious crime, such as rape, espionage and hijacking, may include the death penalty.

It's illegal to:

• take photos at border crossings or military installations
• go too close to the border with China, Cambodia or Laos without prior written permission from the local authorities
• gamble, except in government-licensed casinos where foreign passport holders can gamble
• possess pornography
• possess non-state sanctioned political or religious material

These activities may result in arrest and imprisonment.

Taking part in unsanctioned religious activities, including online, is against the law. Any involvement with non-state sanctioned political organisations, or groups perceived by the Government of Vietnam to be associated with dissident groups is also illegal. If authorities suspect you of involvement in these activities, they could stop you from entering the country, detain or deport you. Authorities could also stop you from leaving, place you under surveillance or subject you to interrogation until an investigation has been completed.

It's illegal to export antiques without a permit. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (Vietnamese) offers advice and necessary permits.

Possessing or distributing images or objects linked to the former Republic of Vietnam, including commemorative or Vietnam War service-related items, is an offence that could attract harsh penalties. 

Embassy or consulate of Vietnam

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you’re overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law

Local customs

Same-sex relationships are legal. However, social and cultural attitudes towards same-sex relationships can be conservative, especially in rural areas.

Avoid public displays of affection.

Same-sex partners aren't legally protected or recognised.

Advice for LGBTI travellers

Dual citizenship

Vietnam recognises dual nationality in limited situations.

If you're a dual citizen and you enter Vietnam on a Vietnamese passport, this limits the consular services we can give if you're arrested or detained. Vietnamese authorities may not tell us of your situation.

Always travel on your Australian passport .

Australian citizens must re-enter Australia on an Australian passport.

If you're a dual national, you may need to do compulsory military service in Vietnam.

Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Vietnam in Australia before you travel.

Advice for dual nationals

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

To enter Vietnam, you must have either a:

• visa exemption certificate

Australian passport holders are not able to obtain visas on arrival in Vietnam.

Learn more about  visa requirements.

You can now apply for an eVisa for tourism or business purposes. It allows eligible travellers to stay up to 90 days in Vietnam if granted. The eVisa is valid for single or multiple entries.

You can complete the  visa application form  online. As there have been reports of difficulties in accessing eVisas during airport check-in, once granted, you should consider printing a hard copy of the visa approval document.

Make sure you enter your details correctly when applying for a visa. The visa details must match exactly the information on your passport's biodata page, such as your full name and date of birth details. When you're issued a visa to enter Vietnam, check that all your Vietnam visa details are correct, match the information in your passport, that your full name is listed, and that there are no spelling or other errors. Any errors or name omissions may result in you being refused entry, or you could be charged a significant fee at check-in or on arrival to correct the visa error. 

For stays longer than 90 days, please contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Vietnam.

If your visa expires or is no longer valid, you may be detained and/or fined when leaving.

The Australian Government cannot sponsor your visa application or extension.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest  embassy or consulate of Vietnam  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

You must register your place of residence with local police within 24 hours of arrival. Check that your hotel does this as part of the check-in process. Register at the local police station if you're staying in private accommodation.

Travellers have been scammed by private online visa services and travel agents.

Only apply for your visa through the Government of Vietnam’s official website or offices.

Vietnamese spouse or parent visas

If your spouse or parent is a Vietnamese national, you can apply for a visa exemption certificate.

Changes to visa status and visa extensions

You can't change the status of your entry visa to any other visa type in Vietnam. For example, you can't change a tourist or a spouse visa to a working visa.

Vietnam does not issue automatic visa extensions. If your visa has expired, contact the Vietnamese immigration authorities to make arrangements to exit Vietnam. Visa extensions are only possible before your visa expiry date.

To get a visa extension from the Vietnamese immigration authorities, your passport must have at least 6 months validity left at the time of application. 

This requirement is subject to change.

Check with the nearest embassy or consulate of Vietnam  for details.

Border measures

Travel and entry requirements may change rapidly. Contact your nearest Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate for details on entry and exit requirements.

Other formalities

Import and export of prescription medication .

Medication  and medical equipment 

Register place of residence

All foreigners must register their place of residence with the local police within 24 hours of arrival.

The Australian embassy and consulate can't provide translation services to help with registration.

If you stay at a hotel, check that you'll be registered as part of the normal check-in process. They'll need your passport details.

Many hotels ask foreigners to leave their passport with hotel staff for registration purposes. It isn't a legal requirement for hotels to keep your passport for the time you stay there.

If you stay with family, friends or in another private residence, you need to register at the local police station. Use a translator if needed.

Local hosts need to pre-register foreign guests. If you stay in a private residence, make sure your host has followed this legal requirement.

Some countries won’t let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you’re just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport’s expiry date before you travel. If you’re not sure it’ll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost and stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

Keep a photocopy (or photograph) of your passport bio page and visa somewhere separately in case you lose your passport.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with 'X' gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTI travellers  

The currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND).

When you arrive or exit Vietnam, declare:

• foreign currency in excess of $US5,000, including cash and traveller's cheques
• more than 15 million Vietnamese dong

If you carry more currency or gold than you declared, authorities could confiscate it. They could arrest or fine you.

These requirements may be subject to change. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Vietnam for details.

Credit cards are widely accepted throughout major cities in Vietnam.

ATMs are widespread in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang.

Check with your bank to confirm if your ATM (eftpos) card will work in Vietnam.

Card skimming happens throughout Vietnam. See Safety .

You may have trouble getting replacement ATM cards.

Many Australian banks don't have local or regional branches with English-speaking staff.

The Vietnamese postal services are generally unreliable. If you need a new card, consider using an international courier service. The Australian embassy or consulate can't help you with money while you wait for a new card. It can't act as a personal mail-holding service.

Local travel

Travel is restricted:

• in some parts of the central Highlands
• around some border areas
• near military installations

Long Tan Cross site

The Vietnamese Government won't permit official Long Tan commemorations at the Long Tan Cross site in Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province.

Access to the site will remain open to small groups of people for private visits without media coverage. This may change at short notice.

Visitors to the site may not:

• wear medals or uniforms
• carry banners or flags

You must behave in a solemn manner, respecting the wishes of local communities.

Landmines and explosive remnants of war

Unexploded ordinance and landmines are a danger in former battlefields, especially in central Vietnam and along the Laos border.

Mine-free roads and paths are well-marked.

If you visit former battlefields, stay on marked pathways.

Driving permit

You must have a valid Vietnamese driver's licence to drive or ride in Vietnam. This includes for motorcycles of 50cc or more.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) issued in Australia is not recognised in Vietnam.

Authorities may fine you for driving without a valid licence.

Australian embassy, Hanoi

Road travel

You're more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident in Vietnam than in Australia.

Hazards include:

• crowded streets in major cities
• drivers ignoring road rules 
• poor vehicle and road maintenance

Traffic accidents often happen and attract large crowds.

If you're involved in an accident, you could face criminal charges. This is regardless of who's at fault. You may need to pay a large sum to the injured person or their family.

If you're not familiar with local conditions, avoid driving or riding a motorcycle.

Whether driving, riding or walking, be very careful when crossing busy streets. Traffic can appear from any direction.

Road Safety

Motorcycles

The number of travellers involved in serious motorcycle accidents is increasing.

Check your travel insurance policy covers you when travelling by motorcycle.

Always wear a helmet that meets Australian safety standards.

Only ride motorcycles if you're:

• properly licensed (Australian driver licences or International Driver Licences issued in Australia are not accepted in Vietnam; you must hold a Vietnamese driving licence to ride a motorbike 50cc or above); and
• familiar with and comfortable in local driving conditions

Be careful using taxis hailed on the street.

Major metered taxis are generally reliable. Ensure the taxi driver knows how to get to where you're going before you get in.

Check the meter is used. Leave the taxi if the driver tries to pick other passengers up.

If you book a taxi online or through an app, make sure the details of the vehicle and driver match those the company gives you.

Unless using an Australian safety standard-approved helmet, we discourage using motorcycle taxis as they provide riders with helmets that offer little to no protection against injury in the case of an accident.

Be careful of taxi scams. See Safety

Public transport

Inter-city buses have a high accident rate.

Petty theft often happens on buses. See Safety .

When travelling by rail, keep the ticket stub as you need it when leaving the train station.

Getting around

Boats, hydrofoils and ferries may not meet Australian safety standards.

Accidents on waterways happen. Vessels have sunk and people have died. This includes in Ha Long Bay.

Whenever you plan to travel by boat :

• ask tour operators about the safety record and emergency procedures
• make sure there is enough safety equipment such as life jackets on board
• if proper equipment is not available, use another provider

Piracy happens in coastal areas of Vietnam.

• Reducing the risk of piracy
• International Maritime Bureau piracy reports

You may need to show your luggage tags when leaving a Vietnamese airport. Keep your luggage receipt from your airline on you at all times.

By law, children under 14 years travelling alone on domestic flights must:

• bring a birth certificate
• have an authorisation letter between the legal guardian of the child and the airline confirming the child can travel alone

Contact the airline in advance to check what is needed for unaccompanied minors.

DFAT doesn’t provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Vietnam's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Travelling by air

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Emergency numbers in Vietnam are operated in Vietnamese only and may be unreliable. You may have a long wait before emergency services arrive.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Take a translator with you to report a crime to the local police. Cases reported by foreigners may be accepted at the discretion of local police.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can’t do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact the nearest embassy or consulate.

Australian Embassy, Hanoi

8 Dao Tan Street

Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, Vietnam

Phone: (+84 24) 3774 0100

Fax: (+84 24) 3774 0111

Website: vietnam.embassy.gov.au

Facebook: Australia in Vietnam

Twitter: @AusAmbVN

Australian Consulate-General, Ho Chi Minh City

20th Floor, Vincom Centre

47 Ly Tu Trong Street

Ben Nghe Ward, District 1

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Phone: (+84 28) 3521 8100

Fax: (+84 28) 3521 8101

Website: hcmc.vietnam.embassy.gov.au

Check the relevant website for details about opening hours, and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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Vietnam Travel Tips - What to Know Before Visiting Vietnam

I f you’re planning to travel Vietnam, there are a few things you need to be aware of. As a first time visitor it can be stressful not to know what to expect. There were a few things I wish I’d known before I went. So if you’re going to Vietnam, check out my top Vietnam travel tips to help you prepare!

1. Get Your Visa in Advance

If you’re visiting Vietnam, you’re going to need a visa to enter. Fortunately, it’s fairly simple to get and you can do it before your trip. In fact, airlines won’t even let you fly to Vietnam if you don’t have your visa ready. One person in our group had the wrong date (1 day later) on her visa and had to stay in the airport and buy a new flight. So make sure you get dates and airports right when you apply.

Also, be sure your application name matches your passport. I forgot to enter my middle name on my visa and had to redo it after it got rejected for not matching my passport.

You can apply for the Vietnam e visa here .

It looks a little sketchy, but I promised it worked. The cost of the Vietnam visa is $25 for single entry . After your application is approved, your visa will be emailed to you.

When you arrive at the airport in Vietnam, there will be a line to show your passport and visa. You can save it on your phone or print it out. I did both, just to be safe, but showed them my paper visa.

2. Go at the right time

Ok, there’s no wrong time to to Vietnam, but you might want to go at the time that’s right for you ! I went to Vietnam in January and February and our weather was fantastic. Hot in Hoi An, warm in Hanoi, and warm in Halong Bay, but chilly at night. We were also there during Tet (Lunar New Year), Vietnam’s most important celebration, so it was incredible to see all the decorations and preparation for the New Year! Here are some weather guidelines for each area of Vietnam.

North Vietnam (Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Sapa)

• Best Time to visit Northern Vietnam : September to November (Autumn) and March to April (Spring)
• Why? : The weather is pleasant with moderate temperatures and less rain, making it ideal for exploring the bustling streets of Hanoi, cruising through Ha Long Bay, or trekking in Sapa.

Central Vietnam (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An)

• Best Time to visit Central Vietnam : January to August
• Why? : Central Vietnam has warm weather during these months, perfect for visiting the ancient town of Hoi An, the beaches of Da Nang, or the historical sites in Hue. The rainy season starts in September and can bring heavy downpours and occasional typhoons, especially in October and November.

South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta)

• Best Time to Visit South Vietnam : December to April (Dry season)
• Why? : The weather is warm and dry, ideal for exploring the vibrant life in Ho Chi Minh City or venturing into the Mekong Delta. The rainy season from May to November can see short, heavy showers, but travel is still possible during these months.

3. Visit More than One City

Vietnam is probably a lot bigger than you realize. And it’s very long, so destinations are quite spread out. Many people make the mistake of only visiting one large city in Vietnam and not doing any day trips or visiting another area of Vietnam. It is very affordable to get around Vietnam and you can get a cheap flight within the country, so it’s worth seeing more than one destination in the country.

major cities

4. Download the Grabb App

If you plan to get around by car in Vietnam, you should download the Grabb App. It’s like UBER or Lyft for Asia and it works really well. I used it all over Vietnam and Thailand without any issue. If you’re not in the mood to barter with taxi drivers or don’t have a lot of cash, this is a good way to go. It felt safer and easier to do this.

5. Pack Layers

The weather in Vietnam is really varied. When you look at a map you can see why…it’s a very LONG country at over 1,000 miles long! So the weather in Northern vietnam and Southern Vietnam can be very different. We spent a few days in Hoi An, a few days in Hanoi, and a few days in Halong Bay, and the weather on the Bay was much cooler than the rest of our trip.

I packed sun dresses, pants, and jackets and I was glad to have them all! Just be sure to check the weather of each destination in Vietnam. Trips are always better when you have the right clothes!

6. Bring an Extra Bag for Souvenirs

I’m not normally a huge shopper when I travel, but there were some great things I wanted to bring home in Vietnam. Luckily I had this great packable duffel that has been with me on many trips! It is HUGE and holds so much and is super sturdy!

Some things that I purchased in Vietnam:

• Lanterns – So many lanterns! One that I made in this class , and a bunch more that I purchased from a local shop.
• Silk Paintings – Probably my most favorite souvenir from Vietnam was the silk painting I purchased from a man disabled from the effects of Agent Orange, a chemical used to clear vegetation during the Vietnam War. Vietnam is famous for its silk paintings, which are embroidered on fabric and absolutely beautiful! They come in all sizes and different levels of detail made by local people. They can be anywhere from $5 USD to $500 USD depending on where you buy yours, how detailed it is, and how long it took to create. They are stunning though!
• Custom Clothing – Hoi An in particular is famous for its custom clothing tailors. You can get just about anything sewn to your liking while you’re there. Some tailors specialize in suits and some specialize in formal ware. Check reviews on Google before picking your tailor. We chose Rosa Tailor, mostly because she was across the street from our hotel and had a 5-star review on Google! I had two custom linen sets and two custom skirts made in just a few hours. It was so much fun to experience it and I love my clothes!

7. Have Cash on Hand

When traveling Vietnam, be sure to get cash out when you get to Vietnam or bring Vietnamese Dong from your bank with you. We needed a lot of cash in Vietnam. A few places took cards, but mostly it was cash only, especially in the local markets and for street food. I think I took about $300 Vietnam Dong out at the ATM and that lasted me about a week.

8. Drink Safe Water and Eat Safe Food

Food and water safety are always a concern of mine when traveling. And while I want to try all of the delicious food at the street food stalls and experience the local culture through food, I also don’t want to be sick for the rest of my trip (been there, done that)!

Try not to eat any raw vegetables fruit with a skin that could have been washed in contaminated water. Examples are lettuce, raw carrots, apples, etc. Peeled fruit and cooked vegetables are usually safe.

A good way to experience Vietnamese food is to take a cooking class from a reputable company where you have control over how the food is prepared and the water being used. Most classes will cater to a western audience and understand water concerns. Here is a list of good cooking classes.

• Hoi An Cooking Class https://www.getyourguide.com/hoi-an-l831/hoi-an-tra-que-herb-village-cooking-class-t518142/?partner_id=67O18VU&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=VietnamTips
• Hanoi Cooking Class https://www.getyourguide.com/hanoi-l205/hanoi-traditional-cooking-class-learning-5-famous-dishes-t563666/?partner_id=67O18VU&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=VietnamTips
• Ho Chi Minh Cooking Class https://www.getyourguide.com/ho-chi-minh-city-l272/4-course-hands-on-vietnamese-cooking-lesson-in-small-group-t125720/?partner_id=67O18VU&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=VietnamTips

Another concern is water. This is probably one of the most important Vietnam travel tips. Don’t drink the tap water! Water can be tricky in Vietnam. You should avoid drinking tap water. Either only use sealed drinking water or bring a good filter water bottle. This is the one I use.

Despite all your best efforts, you may still get sick. I recommend asking your doctor for any meds that might help with bacterial sickness in case you do get sick. I take prescribed antibiotics with me whenever I travel, but my doctor travels to India frequently and gets it! Another option is to see a travel nurse, although any time I go they seem to go overboard and end up scaring me with all the possibilities of my inevitable death!

I also highly recommend getting travel insurance for your trip, because you never know!

9. Be Prepared for Some Hard History

Americans visiting Vietnam should be aware of the country’s complex and difficult history.

When traveling to Vietnam, be prepared to face some hard history. Visiting Vietnam as an American can be a deeply moving and eye-opening experience, given the country’s complex past, particularly concerning the Vietnam War (known in Vietnam as the American War or the Vietnam American War). This period from the late 1950s to 1975 left indelible marks on both nations, shaping their histories, cultures, and peoples in profound ways.

The hardest part for me was seeing victims of Agent Orange, which was a chemical used during the war to clear the jungle vegetation. This chemical affected the genetics of people living in Vietnam, and in turn their children who wouldn’t be born for years to come. I think we will see these lasting effects for a while. It was hard to see this, knowing that my country was part of the cause, but they were all very friendly and welcoming to us as Americans.

10. Book Activities Before You Go

My last Vietnam travel tip is to book ahead. While some people can visit Vietnam and wing their activities, I like to have things planned and scheduled, I like to arrange trips to nearby places, and some tours do book up during busier times, so I think it’s a good idea to have at least a few things planned and booked ahead of time, especially for your first time visit to Vietnam. Here are some of the activities I recommend planning ahead for to avoid unnecessary stress:

• Hoi An Jeep Tour
• Lantern Making Class
• Ninh Binh Day Tour
• Ho Chi Minh Cooking Class

Frequently Asked Questions

1. can americans visit vietnam.

Of course! Americans are welcome in Vietnam with a visa. There are some hard things to see from the war, but its part of both of our histories. I found everyone to be friendly and welcoming towards us as Americans.

2. Do I need a visa to visit Vietnam?

Yes, you need to apply for an e-visa before visiting Vietnam. I suggest applying at least 2 weeks before. Be sure to put your correct name, entry date, and port of entry on your application.

3. Can I use US dollars in Vietnam?

While some hotels, restaurants, and shops in tourist areas might accept US dollars, it’s more common to use Vietnamese Dong (VND) for everyday transactions. It’s advisable to carry local currency, especially when traveling outside major cities or shopping at local markets.

4. What is the etiquette for visiting temples and religious sites?

Dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees) and remove your shoes before entering temples or pagodas. It’s also respectful to avoid loud voices and keep a serene demeanor.

I hope these Vietnam travel tips have been helpful for you. Don’t stress too much about the differences. Vietnam is a beautiful and very welcoming country and you’re going to have the best time!

The post Vietnam Travel Tips – What to Know Before Visiting Vietnam appeared first on Wanderlust Crew .

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Train tickets go on sale seven days before Lao New Year travel dates

Tuesday, 09 Apr 2024

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VIENTIANE: Passengers wanting to travel on the Laos-China Railway Co., Ltd. during the Lao New Year holiday period can buy tickets up to seven days in advance of their planned travel date, instead of just a few days as is normally the case.

The advance ticket purchase plan relates to travel on any day between April 14 and 22, a time when many people take holidays in the northern provinces.

In addition, the company will operate two consecutive EMU trains from April 12-19 (numbers C92/1 and C84/3) to and from Vientiane and Luang Prabang, as it is anticipated that travel on this route will reach peak levels as Luang Prabang is the most popular destination during the Pi Mai Lao holiday.

At the same time, the train operator is adjusting schedules at some stations to accommodate the increasing number of passengers.

Travel on the Laos-China railway is popular because it is convenient, quick and relatively cheap.

The official Pi Mai Lao dates are April 13-16, with extra days tacked on to compensate for the fact that the first two days of the holiday fall on Saturday and Sunday.​

City authorities in Luang​ Prabang have prepared an exciting programme of traditional events to entertain visitors, including a street market at That Luang Square. The first round of the Miss Sangkhan (Miss Lao New Year) competition will take place on April 11 and the final round on April 12. On April 13, Buddha images will be taken out of temples so they can be cleansed by devotees.

On April 14, the Lue ethnic group festival will take place, featuring notable cultural traditions, while people will also visit temples to pour specially prepared water over Buddha images.

On April 15, everyone will take to the streets to throw water over each other and devotees will again go to temples to respectfully pour water over Buddha images.

The programme on April 16 includes almsgiving, a Visit Laos Year tourism parade, a Naga parade, and a lantern parade.

From April 17-19, the city’s governor and high-ranking officials will visit the town’s most revered temples to bathe Buddha statues with perfumed water, and on April 20 will gather at Souvannaphoum Malam temple in Luang Prabang city. - Vientiane Times/ANN

Tags / Keywords: Laos , New Year , travel , train

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