Vietnam Travel FAQ: Pho-get Your Worries

Welcome to Vietnam – home of stunning landscapes and “the most friendly people” who invite you to “free your soul on white sandy beaches” and “indulge in our scrumptious cuisine”. 

In short: you may come for the pho (pronounced fuh), but you’ll stay for the smiles. This guide is designed as your one-stop shop for Vietnam Travel.  Yes, it will be a bit of a long read, but that’s because it’s packed with everything you’ll need.

Feel free to take it section by section and revisit anytime as you plan your adventure.

Visas & Entry Requirements: The Not-So-Scary Paperwork

 

Here’s the scoop: Vietnam is rolling out the welcome mat!

If you’re from most of Western Europe, Japan, South Korea, and a growing list of other countries, you can waltz in visa-free for up to 45 days. For everyone else, the e-Visa is your new best friend – a quick online application that gets you a 90-day stay for just $25 (single entry) or $50 (multi-entry).

Officially, the Vietnam Immigration site says processing takes 3 working days, but here’s the reality check: it’s usually 5–7 working days (and that’s not counting the weekend gap from Friday 4:00 pm to Monday 9:00 am). 

💡Pro tip #1: The “first day” doesn’t start the minute you click submit; it kicks in 24 hours after your application. So, don’t cut it too close to your travel date unless you enjoy nail-biting suspense.

As for the old-school Visa on Arrival? It’s still around, but it involves a pre-approval letter and waiting in line at the airport. Honestly, unless standing in queues is your idea of cultural immersion, save yourself the hassle and go with the e-Visa.

💡Pro tips #2: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates and has at least one blank page for that snazzy red entry stamp (U.S. State Department, 2024). It’s also smart to carry a couple of photocopies – one for hotel check-ins, one for peace of mind. With the paperwork sorted, you can get back to the fun stuff: deciding whether your first Vietnamese word will be phở or bia!

 

All About the e-Visa (Your Real MVP)

Let’s zoom in a little, because this is where most travelers start scratching their heads.

  • Official site only: Apply directly at https://evisa.gov.vn. The fee is $25 (single entry) or $50 (multi-entry). You’ll need to upload a passport photo and a recent headshot (more on that in a sec). The government says results in 3 working days, but realistically? Expect 5–7 business days—weekends and Vietnamese holidays don’t count.
  • Avoid “service” websites: Plenty of travel agencies run third-party sites that charge extra fees for the exact same visa. Unless you need handholding, skip them and stick with the official portal.
  • Visa on Arrival is still around: Technically, you can get an “invitation letter” and pay $25 Visa stamp fee at the airport. But honestly? The e-Visa saves you time, money, and stress. Think click-and-go, not queue-and-grumble.
  • Office hours matter: Vietnam’s immigration office works Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Applications submitted outside these hours (especially Friday evenings) may not be processed until the following week.
  • Be mindful of processing time: Keep in mind that holiday seasons can stretch timelines to 15 ~ 21 days. Our recommendation? Apply at least 3 weeks before your departure.

Truly Voyage can step in to help. We offer support packages for e-visa applications, including troubleshooting if your self-applied visa hits a snag. Just reach out to us and we’ll guide you through.

Give us a call! 🤙

💡But do keep this in mind: if you contact us after 4:30 pm on Friday, new visas won’t be processed until 9:00 am Monday, since the immigration office takes the weekend off (yes, even bureaucrats need their weekend).

  • Photo & upload tips:
    • Portrait photo: take a fresh one, no glasses, no excessive smiles, ears visible, and your face square to the camera.
    • Passport scan: all four corners of the page should be visible, especially the bottom corners (that’s where people often crop incorrectly).
    • Double-check file clarity before uploading.
  • Important notice: Once you confirm an application with an agency, it cannot be canceled—even if your e-Visa comes through faster than expected via your own attempt.
  • Heads-up on rule changes: Immigration rules can shift without much notice. Always verify requirements close to your departure date.

 

Money & Budgeting: Living the Good (and Cheap) Life

Vietnam runs on the đồng (₫/VND), aka “lots of zeros.”

💡Quick hack: knock off three zeros and divide by ~25 to eyeball USD. So 100,000₫ ≈ $4.30 and $1 ≈27,000₫

Expect delightfully low everyday costs: 

The Bills of Vietnam

(The Bills of Vietnam)

  • Sidewalk cà phê sữa đá ~25,000₫
  • A street-food meal + iced tea ~45,000₫
  • A café cappuccino ~55,000₫
  • Even a simple three-course dinner ~200,000₫ per person (still a bargain by Western standards)

Sleep comes cheap too: dorm beds from ~120,000₫ up to 300,000₫/night, solid 3-star hotels around ~800,000₫/night (and ~700,000₫/night for 2-star), and luxe digs can start from ~3.5 million₫/night to anywhere in the 60 million range. 

Getting around won’t dent your budget:  in Hanoi, quick taxi hops usually cost just 35,000–100,000₫ (basically loose change compared to back home).

  • Down in Da Nang or bustling Ho Chi Minh City, expect fares to start from around 100,000₫ and climb from there - still a bargain for door-to-door comfort.
  • From Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat (SGN) to downtown is typically ~350,000 - 400,000₫ ($15.20–$17.40) 
  • Hanoi’s Nội Bài to the Old Quarter runs ~300,000 - 400,000₫. Prefer buses/shuttles? SGN’s yellow airport buses are 20,000–40,000₫, while Hanoi’s 86 Express is ~40,000₫

Tipping isn’t expected but always appreciated - think a little loose change in cafés/restaurants; guides/drivers welcome small gratuities. Friendly bargaining is normal in markets.

💡Pro tip for your wallet: the 20,000₫ and 500,000₫ notes are both blue-ish
Don’t mix up the “smurf twins.” ATMs and card payments are widely available, but keep some cash for street eats 

 

Getting Around Vietnam: Taxis, Trains, and Two-Wheeled Adventures

Traveling across Vietnam is part of the fun - half adventure, half trying to stay alive. Let’s break it down:

Taxis & Ride-Hailing

Stick to reputable names: in Hanoi, look for Taxi Group (red stripes) or Mai Linh (green). In Ho Chi Minh City, Vinasun (white) and Mai Linh are your go-tos.

Or skip the street haggling and summon a ride via Grab (Green guys), Be (Yellow guys), Xanh SM from Vingroup (Light Blue guys). But you’ll need a local SIM first

💡Pshh! Get them at various airport travel counters. 

Avoid hopping on random, weird-sounding, motorbike taxis or “black taxis”. Your wallet might end up lighter than your luggage.

 

Airport Transfers

Metered taxis and official airport shuttles are reliable. Expect ~350,000 - 400,000₫ ($15.20–$17.40) from Ho Chi Minh’s Tan Son Nhat to downtown. In Hanoi, a flat-rate (non-metered) taxi from Nội Bài to the Old Quarter is ~330,000₫ ($14). 

 

Domestic Flights

Vietnam Airlines = dependable schedules and comfy seats. Low-cost carriers like VietJet, Bamboo Airways, or Pacific Airlines (formerly Jetstar) are temptingly cheap, but don’t bet your layover cocktail on punctuality - delays are common for these brands 

 

Trains

The legendary Reunification Express stretches Hanoi - Hue - Da Nang - Nha Trang - Saigon in ~36 hours. It’s not about speed; it’s about soaking up Vietnam through the window. Opt for an overnight “soft sleeper” for comfort. During Tet and holidays, tickets sell out. So book early.

💡But wait, there’s more: if you’re heading to Sapa or down south and prefer a bit more luxury, we also work with premium tourist trains like Damitrans, Vic Train, Chapa Express Train for the northern routes, and Lotus, Violet Train, Laman Express for southern journeys. Think soft lighting, plush berths, and a far more polished experience than standard carriages. Perfect if you’d like your adventure sprinkled with a little elegance.

 

Motorbikes

Vietnam’s unofficial mascot is the motorbike. Rentals go for $6–12/day, but you’ll likely need to leave your passport or a chunky deposit (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, 2025a). Helmets are required by law (for riders and passengers).

💡Bonus tip: bring shades or goggles, unless you enjoy mystery debris hitting your eyeballs. Riding through Vietnam’s traffic feels like joining a live-action video game. Chaotic, but unforgettable.

 

SIM Cards & Connectivity

Stay connected without torching your budget. A local SIM or eSIM with 30-day data runs 200,000–350,000₫ ($8–15). You can buy one at the airport travel booth or in town (Please ask the guide or acquainted locals to help you).

With cheap data in your pocket, you’ll be hailing rides, navigating like a pro, and uploading all those “I survived Saigon traffic” selfies. 

 

✨Booking with Truly Voyage: Your Questions, Answered✨

Planning a trip to Vietnam shouldn’t feel like reading the fine print of a bank contract. At Truly Voyage, we like to keep things clear, simple, and - dare we say - fun. Here’s everything you need to know about how we operate:

How do I book a tour package?

Truly Voyage Team - At your service!

Think of booking with Truly Voyage like ordering phở: pick your favorite toppings and let us handle the rest. 

(💡Phsst! And if you want to book a tour without the hotel included? No problem! Just reach out to us directly, and we’ll sort it out for you.)

Here’s the recipe:

1. Select the number of travelers.

Traveling solo? We’ve got you covered! We can customize tours for single travelers. Just note that a small single supplement fee applies.

2. Choose your start date.

Heads-up on Holidays & Festival Pricing
Our regular prices don’t apply during Vietnam’s biggest holidays and Da Nang’s famous fireworks season. If you’re planning to travel on these dates, please contact us directly for updated rates and availability:

  • Western New Year (Christmas & New Year’s Festival): December 20 – January 1, 2025
    Lunar New Year (Tết): Dates vary each year, usually January or February (check the online Lunar Calendar or ask our Truly Voyage Sales team).
  • Hùng Kings’ Anniversary: 10th day of the 3rd Lunar Month (April 7, 2025, in the Solar Calendar).
  • Liberation Day (Reunification Day) & International Workers’ Day: April 30 & May 1, 2025.
  • Special Da Nang Festivals (Fireworks, Light Shows, Cultural Celebrations): Dates vary, typically June–August.
  • National Day (Independence Day): September 1–3, 2025.

💡 Pro tip: traveling outside of these festive peaks not only saves you money but also means fewer crowds—so you can soak up the magic of Vietnam at a slower, more personal pace.

Book between 08:00 AM and 09:00 PM (Vietnam time) and you’ll get confirmation within the hour. Outside those hours, your booking will be waiting for you the next morning - Just in time for coffee.

3. Pick your hotel category.

Truly Voyage can customize everything to your liking. Already have a favorite hotel in mind? 

Just check with us directly. We’ve been working with hotels and cruises for over 11 years, so we can usually secure the best rates. You can even mix and match, say, a few nights in a 3-star, then upgrade to a 4-star or 5-star for a little indulgence. No need to stick to one standard the whole trip!

4. Add payment details, and you’re done.

We make payments flexible for you: place a deposit in advance and settle the balance once you’re in Vietnam. Besides online payment, we also accept bank transfers.

In some countries, we even have local representatives who can assist directly. Just reach out to us for the details that fit you best.

💡Please contact directly with Vanilla directly via WhatsApp (+84) 888 555 908 for the best advice.

 

Is it safe to purchase a package online?

Absolutely! Truly Voyage isn’t some fly-by-night outfit. Our HQ is right in the heart of Hanoi at 54 Hàng Tre, Hoàn Kiếm District. 

Plus, we work with respected travel partners worldwide - like The Mighty Roar in the UK, Air University and the U.S. Naval War College in the States, and a growing family of adventurers across the globe.

💡In fact, in 2024 alone, we organized ten history trips for U.S. institutions, with more already in the pipeline for 2025.

And that’s just the beginning. Our trusted collaborators also include Fit4, Wandervan, Hai Hui Prin Lume, MK Tramping, and Lyratik - each bringing travelers from different corners of the world to experience Vietnam with us.

Add to that over 20 daily inquiries and more than 10 group tours departing every single day, and it’s clear: Truly Voyage isn’t just part of the travel scene, we’re shaping it.

For proof, just peek at our Google reviews, where happy travelers do the storytelling for us.

 

What’s your cancellation policy?

Life happens, we get it. That’s why:

  • Cancel ≥ 1 month in advance: you’ll get a 100% refund (minus transfer fees).
  • Cancel < 1 month in advance: we’ll do our best to claw back deposits on your behalf. Give us a call using the contact information in the next section if you need help!

⚠️ Heads-up: certain costs like airfare, visas, train, and bus tickets, and tickets from VinGroup or SunGroup are non-refundable.

 

What if I run into payment problems?

We’ve got humans (not robots!) ready 24/7 to help:

  • Vani: +84 888 555 908
  • Tim: +84 886 288 898

Or just hit the little chat icon at the bottom-right of our site.

 

What if I love a package, but it’s over my budget, or I’m short on time?

No worries. Travel isn’t one-size-fits-all. If you want to trim a tour to fit your wallet or calendar, we can shorten or extend programs, swap activities, or adjust dates without hassle. 

Prefer not to go private? We’ve got you covered there, too, with group options ranging from budget-friendly to quality-focused. Just contact Vani or Tim (numbers above), and we’ll make it work.”

Think of us as your personal Vietnam tailors - except instead of áo dài, we stitch together solid itineraries for you to experience Vietnam.

Contact Vani or Tim (numbers above), and we’ll make it work.

 

Why choose Truly Voyage over other companies?

Because we don’t just plan trips. We plan your trip. Here’s what sets us apart:

  • Seamless experience: 

With Truly Voyage, you’re never left guessing or wandering on your own. Our guides all have over 5 years of experience, while our vehicles are kept fresh, always under 5 years of service. 

We’ll be right there at the airport, bus station, or pier to welcome you, so you’ll never have to hunt for your ride or figure out your next stop alone. For private tours, you’ll receive all hotel reservation codes before arrival, and your guide will be added to a WhatsApp group so you’ll always have 2–3 supporters on hand (plus your guide’s info before you even land!). 

For join-in tours, your assigned guide will message you directly to set up a meeting time, because smooth connections make for smoother adventures.

  • Top-tier services at fair prices.
  • Satisfaction guarantee: Refund if things don’t meet your expectations.
  • Personal touches: warm welcomes, smooth airport pickups, and thoughtful gifts are just the beginning. Vani, our co-founder, always weaves Vietnam’s cultural and traditional elements into your journey, because for her, travel isn’t just about seeing; it’s about living the stories, legends, and heritage that have been preserved for thousands of years.

Curious why she’s so passionate about this? 👉 Read Vani’s story here

  • Exclusive perks: like a 20% massage voucher - because nothing says “holiday” like a great massage at a great price.

 

What’s included in my package, and what’s not?

Included (so you can relax):

  • Airport transfers
    Already booked a hotel that includes airport pick-up? Great! Just let us know, and we’ll happily take transfers out of your package.
  • Guided regional tours
  • Entrance tickets
  • Accommodation
  • Meals (check itineraries for details)
  • Domestic flight tickets
    One more perk to keep in mind: almost all domestic airlines in Vietnam include 7–10kg of carry-on baggage and 20–23kg of checked luggage, so you can pack that extra pair of shoes, or that absolutely necessary neck-pillow.
  • Basic travel insurance

Not included (so you can choose):

  • International flights (though we can help you book them)
  • eVisa (apply online or ask us to assist)
  • Comprehensive travel insurance

We always recommend travelers get proper, comprehensive travel insurance. The basic coverage often sounds reassuring, but in reality, it usually has low limits and won’t protect you in cases like lost luggage or unexpected hiccups.

A solid policy means you can explore Vietnam with peace of mind, knowing you’re covered for more than just the basics.

💡Quick note, dear friends: You’re not limited to the packages you see on our website, far from it. Truly Voyage has customized over 1,000 itineraries, and trust us, if we posted them all online, our site would start competing with Wikipedia! So, if you don’t see your dream trip listed, just reach out. We’ll tailor-make a journey that fits you perfectly.

 

How big are the tour groups?

We keep it cozy: 12 people or fewer for most tours, so you don’t feel lost in the crowd. The one exception is Ha Long Bay cruises, which may host up to 80 guests—but let’s be honest, it’s hard to feel crowded when you’re floating past limestone karsts at sunset.

 

Why don’t all packages include dinner?

Because freedom tastes better! Leaving out certain meals keeps the price friendlier and lets you explore Vietnam’s world-class dining scene. All our hotels are right in the heart of tourist hubs, so within 50–500 meters, you’ll find everything from local street eats to TikTok-famous restaurants.

And here’s another reason: tour meals are often served as full sets with 5~10 dishes. Delicious, yes - but by dinner, you might be stuffed and craving something lighter. Sometimes all you need is a bowl of bún chả and a bánh mì for just $3–4 per person. It keeps the package price lower and gives you the freedom to chase local favorites on your own.

Plus, Vietnamese nights are made for snacking. Locals love late-night munchies - think sizzling street BBQ, fresh shellfish, hearty cháo (rice porridge), or a simple bánh mì at midnight. 

Wander a bit and your stomach might start growling at the sight of chè (sweet soups), sticky rice from Xôi Yến, or even the colorful tropical fruit stall. If you’re too full from a big tour dinner, you’ll miss out on these irresistible curbside delights. 😋

Need foodie tips? Check out this fun guide on Vietnamese fine & street dining!

 

Are there recommended flight times for arrival and departure?

Tours run daily and can be reversed (North-to-South or South-to-North) with no price changes. That means you can start your Vietnam journey on any day you like.

Pro tips:

  • For long-haul flights (>8 hours) or late-night arrivals, treat the first and last day as free recovery time.
  • If you want to catch something special, like the Dragon Bridge fire show in Da Nang (every Friday, Saturday & Sunday night), plan your dates around it.

 

Do you provide tour guides who speak other languages?

Yes! In addition to English, we can arrange guides fluent in Mandarin, French, Spanish, Italian, or Russian.

👉 Note: Non-English guides may cost a little more, but having your favorite legends explained in your mother tongue? Worth every đồng.

 

What types of transportation are available for tours in Vietnam?

Whatever your crew size, we’ve got the right ride:

  • 4- & 7-seater cars for couples or families.
  • 12-seater vans for small groups.
  • 9-seater limousines for stylish road trips.
  • 20- to 45-seater buses for larger groups.
  • 16, 22, & 27-seater limousines for premium comfort.

Our vehicles are always under 5 years old, driven by company-employed drivers with over 10 years of experience behind the wheel. Because we rarely outsource, we can guarantee quality, cleanliness, and professionalism every time. And here’s a nice perk: our drivers and guides will never ask you for tips. You’re free to give one if you’d like, but it’s completely up to you.

Now, a quick reality check: most Vietnamese drivers don’t speak English. If you’d like a driver who knows a little, it’s usually possible with 4- or 7-seater cars, just let Vani know in advance. That said, we generally recommend having a guide along.

Why? Because in Vietnam, traffic often feels like a live-action movie scene - and it’s best to let the driver focus on the road while your guide handles everything else. 😉

👉 That’s our promise: simple booking, flexible plans, and service with a smile. Now, all that’s left for you to do is pack light—and save room for souvenirs.

 

Common Scams in Vietnam and How to Avoid Them

Like many popular travel hotspots, Vietnam has its fair share of scams targeting unsuspecting visitors. Don’t worry: with a little awareness, you can sidestep these pitfalls and enjoy your trip with peace of mind.

Here are the most common scams in Vietnam and how to avoid them:

Transportation Scams

  • Unlicensed Taxis – Some drivers may refuse to use the meter or deliberately take longer routes to inflate fares.
     👉 Avoidance Tip: Stick to reputable ride-hailing apps like Grab or Xanh SM for transparent pricing.
  • Cyclo Overcharging – Cyclo rides can turn sour if the fare isn’t discussed beforehand. Drivers might demand an outrageous sum once the ride is over.
     👉 Avoidance Tip: Always agree on the price before hopping on.

Street Vendor Scams

  • Unsolicited Samples – A vendor hands you food or souvenirs as a “free” sample, then pressures you to pay.
     👉 Avoidance Tip: Politely decline any offers you didn’t ask for.
  • Shoe Shine Trick – Someone points out dirt on your shoes and begins cleaning without consent, then demands payment.
     👉 Avoidance Tip: Be firm and decline unsolicited services.

 

Currency & Payment Scams

  • Currency Confusion – Vietnamese đồng notes look similar, especially in large denominations, leading to accidental overpayment.
     👉 Avoidance Tip: Familiarize yourself with the currency and double-check your bills during every transaction.
  • ATM Skimming – Hidden devices at poorly monitored ATMs can capture your card details.
     👉 Avoidance Tip: Use ATMs located inside reputable banks, and always cover the keypad when entering your PIN.

 

Accommodation & Tour Scams

  • Fake Hotel Claims – Some taxi drivers falsely tell you your hotel is closed or overbooked, then take you to another hotel (where they earn a commission).
     👉 Avoidance Tip: Insist on going to your booked hotel. If in doubt, call your hotel, or your guide, and most importantly - CALL VANI and Team Truly directly.
  • Tour Operator Tricks – Low-quality operators may promise the world but deliver subpar services—or nothing at all.
     👉 Avoidance Tip: Book tours through reputable agencies and check reviews before committing.

 

 

Online & Digital Scams

  • Fake eVisa Websites – Scam sites mimic the official government portal, charging inflated fees or stealing personal details.
     👉 Avoidance Tip: Only apply for visas through the official site: https://evisa.gov.vn/.
  • Public Wi-Fi Risks – Hackers can use unsecured networks to steal data.
     👉 Avoidance Tip: Avoid logging into sensitive accounts on public Wi-Fi, or better yet, use a VPN or your SIM card's 5G data.

 

 

Miscellaneous Scams

  • Fake Monks or Charity Collectors – Individuals in robes or with donation boxes may pressure you for money.
     👉 Avoidance Tip: Politely decline and donate only to registered organizations.
  • Overpriced SIM Cards – Some sellers overcharge tourists for SIM cards or provide limited service.
     👉 Avoidance Tip: Buy SIM cards only from official stores or authorized dealers, grab them first thing at the airport once you land, or ask your tour guide to help.

✨Final Word of Advice✨: Staying vigilant and trusting your instincts are your best defenses. If something feels off, it probably is. And when in doubt, seek help from your accommodation or an official source.

 

AND THAT'S A WRAP!

So there you have it - your one-stop shop to Vietnam travel made simple, practical, and (hopefully) a little entertaining. From visas to vehicles, meals to must-knows, we’ve covered the essentials so you can spend less time worrying and more time daydreaming about lantern-lit nights in Hội An or misty mornings in Sapa.

And here’s the best part: flexibility is our middle name. You can book well in advance, secure a last-minute package, or even pop by our office in Vietnam once you’ve arrived to sit down, chat, and fine-tune your dream adventure. Whether you’re the type who plans everything months ahead or the spontaneous soul who decides “why not Vietnam?” on a Tuesday afternoon, Truly Voyage has your back.

At the end of the day, our goal is simple: to make sure your trip is seamless, joyful, and full of the kind of memories that stay with you long after you’ve unpacked your suitcase. 

Now, the only question left is… when are you coming?

 

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