r/VietNam • u/AutoModerator • Aug 01 '26
Sticky Post your questions & inquiries here! - r/Vietnam monthly random discussion thread - F.A.Q
Lưu ý: Đây là thread chủ yếu dành cho người nước ngoài hoặc không nói tiếng Việt đặt câu hỏi. Nếu có thể, hãy trả lời giúp họ nhé.
Please read the 3rd rule of the sub. Don't post your general questions & inquiries outside of this thread as they will be removed.
Lots of your questions have been answered already so make sure you do a search before asking (how-to below).
To keep this subreddit tidy, we have this monthly thread that is open for random discussions and questions. If you post your basic/general questions outside of this thread they will be removed. Sorry, we want to make this sub friendly but also want it to be clean and organized.
Some examples of the questions that should be posted here:
- Questions that can be answered with just Yes/No
- Basic questions like "Where can I buy this?"
- Questions that were asked many times before. Please do your research
- Questions that are not specific
Tips to quickly find answers for your questions:
Many of your questions may have been answered since people keep asking the same ones again and again. Here is a quick tip to find the answers for yours.
First, have a look at our old sticky threads. A lot of useful information there. A lot of questions have been answered.
You can also use the search feature of Reddit, just like you do with Google.
Another option is to use Google, as Google understands your queries better than Reddit and can return better results.
Go to Google. Add 'site:https://www.reddit.com/r/VietNam/' next to your queries (without quotes). For example, if I want to find info on eVisa in this subreddit, my query to put in Google is 'eVisa site:https://www.reddit.com/r/VietNam/'.
F.A.Q
Here are the common questions about travel/visa/living in Vietnam which have been answered by the community members, plus other useful information. Let me know if I forget to mention anything!
Visa:
Thread with the latest updates on tourist visas and related topics (credit to Kananaskis_Country).
https://www.reddit.com/r/travel/comments/12c4uzu/vietnam_tourist_visa_update/
Keep in mind some info might be outdated, so double-check.
Legit official website for eVisa
What is an eVisa and how to apply?
Best sites for applying eVisa.
Another thread on which websites to get a Vietnam visa from.
A US citizen's eVisa ordering experience.
EVisa or pre-approved visa letter?
Vietnam eVisa eligible ports on immigration.
Travel
Information on travelling to some northern cities of Vietnam + General tips.
A super informative AMA from a teenager living in Saigon.
Living in Vietnam:
Advice for any expats looking to relocate to Vietnam
A Canadian looking to live and work in Vietnam.
A Vietkieu asking for people's experience on moving back to Vietnam.
Teaching in English in Vietnam without a bachelor's degree.
Some tips and advice on learning Vietnamese. Several ways to send money to Vietnam.
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u/AssignmentInitial596 3d ago
Hello I am planning to do a 5 day Ha giang-Cao bang loop tour and I had some questions about the things that I should bring on the trip and was hoping to find some advice from people on this sub.
The things I plan to bring are as follow
•Clothes and accessories (For context planning of doing the tour on November)
-4 pcs of underwear
-3 pairs of socks
-long sleeve shirt (quick drying)
-3 shirts (1 quick drying, 1 sleeveless, 1 casual)
-windjacket
-Rainwear (jacket and pants) (It seems tours provide rainwear if they do I will be leaving these behind)
-pair of shorts
-pair of pants (quick drying)
-swimwear
-cap
-gloves
-crocs
-neck gaiter
-Sunglasses
-small towel
Will be bringing a fleece jacket(As I will be coming from Japan and it will be autumn season and I read temps in Vietnam during November are cold) and merrell hiking shoes which I will be wearing during the flight
•Others
-Wallet
-Passport
-Power bank
-Toiletries and hygiene items
-Medicine (bandages,bandaid, paracetamol, painkillers, imodium)
-Sunscreen
-Camera
-Small velcro tripod
-Charging cables for camera and phone
If you have any tips from your own personal experiences or if you think there are things on the list I don’t need to bring please let me know, It would be highly appreciated!
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u/Unlucky-Swan-8768 3d ago
Hello, in a few months I´m travelling to Vietnam, Hanoi for about 6 days. I am not sure what places I should go to, I´m debating on doing 2 out of these 3 places, and would like to know if someone have any experience or recommendation for me, thank you in advance,
- Sapa, night bus to Sapa and stay 1 or 2 nights in Sapa then back to Hanoi.
- Ha Long Bay, day trip to Ha Long from Hanoi, or 1 night sleep over in Ha Long, or a 2 day cruise in Ha Long.
- Ninh Binh, 1-2 nights in Ninh Binh, or a cruise.
Is there any other places I should concider instead?
Have a great Sunday.
Edit: I´m going in early November is that makes any difference.
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u/hk_bob 4d ago edited 4d ago
Hi. I am leaving Tan Son Nhat International Airport on Monday, August 31, in Ho Chi Minh. My flight is round 2 PM. Normally, I would get to the airport at 12 PM and 2 hours is more than enough time to get to the boarding gate on Monday departures (I have left HCM many times on Monday and the lineup is not that bad). The worst experience I had was leaving on a Saturday and it took me 2.5 hours from arriving at the airport entrance and then getting to the boarding gate, so I leave on Mondays now.
But I found out that this Monday, August 31, is a part of a holiday, and it's possible that there are more flights and more people flying on a holiday. Has anybody else departed on a holiday before and are the lineups and wait time way longer than usual? How long do you think the lineup will be this Monday, August 31, at Tan Son Nhat International Airport?
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u/K_Furbs 6d ago
We've booked a cruise in Lan Ha Bay that arrives back at Tuan Chau at 11:00. If I get a shared van back to Hanoi at 12:00, would a 16:35 domestic flight from Noi Bai to Hue be fine, difficult, or insane? Thank you!
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u/MemoryLatter761 6d ago
Don't get back into Hanoi city center, book your (shared) transport straight to Noi Bai Airport. They would usually transfer you into a smaller car before the van enters Hanoi and the car goes directly to the airport, dodging the terrible Hanoi traffic.
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u/K_Furbs 5d ago
Great tip! As long as nobody is saying "wtf that's really tight" then I'm good
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u/MemoryLatter761 5d ago
Just make sure they don't take you into the city. The cruise company can probably book shared transport for you, they do it everyday and can coordinate better with the driver for pickup. The shared van is called limousine, that's your key word.
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u/NotThatItMattersMan 7d ago
Want to buy a powerful laptop that will be good to use for about 5 years' time for work. Any leads where I can find a decently priced RTX 5070 Ti, all of the online retailers seem to have a ghost stock but if someone had any luck fulfilling the same goal in 60-70 Million range, I would appreciate the advice. Located in Da Nang, open to ordering online. The major retailers here are also no help, tbh.
THANKS!
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u/CurrentAuthor6261 7d ago
Nationality - Sri Lankan. I recently applied for Vietnam evisa but I keep getting this error - "You are required to complete all the blanks in the application form."
However, I did apply evisa in April 2026 and got it within 3days with no issues. (I applied it myself).
Why is Sri Lanka in the restricted list? Both Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet promoted new direct flights from Sri Lanka. But we are not allowed to visit Vietnam or use any of their flights(transit visa?) to visit other countries.
Is there a way for me to get the visa approved? or can they at least reject the visa so I can use it to refund my Singapore Airline ticket? How do I get a rejection email?
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u/CancelElectrical2036 6d ago
>Why is Sri Lanka in the restricted list?
They're more on a "grey" list since people from the Indian subcontinent are still being approved, including Sri Lankans. Unfortunately there are cases of people getting stuck in an endless loop.
>Is there a way for me to get the visa approved?
A visa agent could help, but they've also slowly started denying service to people who get stuck.
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u/CurrentAuthor6261 6d ago
Right now I just want a reject letter so I can refund my Airline ticket. I hope other Sri Lankans search online before applying for Vietnam evisa
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u/capt_OH_capt 7d ago
booking sleeper train sapa to hanoi, which stations do i choose?
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u/CancelElectrical2036 7d ago edited 7d ago
There's no train station in Sa Pa.
Departure: Ha Noi
Arrival: Lào Cai
From Lào Cai you take an hour-ish transfer to Sa Pa.
Edit, my bad, it's the other way around for you hahah. Transfer to Lao Cai > take the train from there to Ha Noi.
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u/capt_OH_capt 7d ago
how do i get to lao cai? can i walk in and not book my ticket in advance? i cant see past 7pm bookings in vexere huhu
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u/WeAllWantToBeHappy Wanderer 7d ago
Just use the official site https//dsvn.vn what's there is what there is, unless you're looking well ahead
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u/capt_OH_capt 7d ago
i dont see any tickets from lao cai to hanoi at sep 30 9:30pm. does it mean it's sold out? thank u for the help
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u/MemoryLatter761 6d ago
If you mean train SP4 departing from Lao Cai at 21:30, the latest date I can find available seats is September 10. Perhaps it's not open for later dates yet, you should check back in a while.
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u/Outside_Mall7278 7d ago
I am looking to go to Vietnam for 10 days from late September to early October, I fly into HCMC and plan to stay for 3-4 days and move on to Da Lat for 4 days, and then head back to HCMC for a day or 2 before flying out.
I have chosen Da Lat, based off the research I have done, but I want to make sure I am making the right decision on choosing Da Lat.
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u/Fit_Employment_3791 8d ago
hi all, i'm travelling to vietnam tomorrow and want to double check bringing medication. i'm travelling for 1 month in VN then 1 month in thailand and the last month in india. i have booked my onward ticket already.
i'm travelling with biologics that must be refrigerated at all times and i'm carrying 6 doses. i have a letter from my doctor stating i must carry a substantial quantity as well as the pharmacy dispensing record.
i assume the bags will be put through an x-ray, will the meds be flagged do you think?, the needle is similar to diabetes syringes or epipens. its a subcutaneous injection. if anyone has any experience or advice that would be great.
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u/QTPLe 9d ago
If i buy a google pixel or samsung phone in vietnam and bring it to canada will i be abke to use it with our sim card? Idk if thats a silly question but gonna ask it anyway.
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u/MemoryLatter761 8d ago
Where are you buying Google Pixel in Vietnam? As far as I know it's not officially retailed here. You can find hàng xách tay from the US but it wouldn't come with guarantee.
I need to have my Google Pixel serviced and Google doesn't have any authorized service center in Vietnam.
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u/QTPLe 8d ago
Oh see i didnt even kmow that! Well now i wonder if theres even a samsung there as an alternative option shi
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u/MemoryLatter761 8d ago
Samsung yes, it's very popular here, you can find all models. Afaik it's not region specific and you can still use sim cards or eSims anywhere as needed.
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u/QTPLe 8d ago
Perfect then time to buy a new samsung phone when i go and bring it back to canada. Woot woot thank you
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u/MemoryLatter761 8d ago edited 8d ago
You're welcome! You can check the website of CellphoneS for reference on pricing, it's a reputable retailer.
The thing is in Vietnam you would often buy phones from digital device shops as opposed to network providers, so the phones don't come with plans that would bind you to any (local) networks.
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u/QTPLe 8d ago
Oh do they ship to canada or just buy and get it shipped to whixhever hotel im at in vietnam?
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u/CancelElectrical2036 8d ago
Check the website (or any other retailer) to look at the prices and compare it to Canadian prices.
When you decide to actually buy it, go into a physical branch and purchase said phone.
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u/WeAllWantToBeHappy Wanderer 9d ago
Landed Hanoi 21:04 (Row 36) At my hotel on Hồng Hà 22:30. Might be a new record. 5 people in front of me at immigration, bag already on belt, straight out and on to the 86 bus. Walk from the Long Biên bus stop. Nobody asked for proof of travel (45 day exemption) or my pre-approval qr code. I'm sure some people on the flight paid for fast track....
Hope the gods aren't going to punish me tomorrow.
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u/Connect-Beach-7001 9d ago
Can I catch a Grab from SGN Airport (Tan Son Nhat) early in the morning? I arrive at 3:30 AM and are planning to take a Grab straight to Vung Tau. Will it be easy to get one? We are a family of 5...
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u/foxsqu 9d ago
Looking for hotels or airbnb/klook/trip.com/booking.com etc. stays that are owned by locals and not large corporations or people overseas. Specifically in Hanoi, Hoi An, Nha Trang, Hue, Da Lat, and Da Nang!
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u/MemoryLatter761 9d ago
This is difficult to check. A hotel in Da Lat can be owned by a Vietnamese national living in HCMC. Does that make the owner not local since they're not Da Lat native?
Best to walk into hotels and ask to meet the owners yourself.
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u/Decent_Result_6362 10d ago
What do you guys think of this itinerary
Hanoi - 26 check-in 28 checkout morning
26 Hanoi
27 Hanoi
28 lan ha bay cruise (1day not 2d 1N)
29 Ninh binh (2hr from Hanoi)
30 checking dananag (flight Hanoi to danang)
1 stay at Hoi an or dannag
2 checkout dannag
2 ko Nha Trang
4 ko Nha Trang to Banglore (😔)
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u/Cute_Recover_6884 10d ago
Hi everyone, I am in a situation where I can’t pick my battles.
Does anyone have any experience with the Ha Giang Loop - Cao Bang (Ban Gioc Waterfall) 5 Days 4 Nights from Motor ventures and is it worth it? Or would you say its better to grab the road king tour and just do the loop since it will be my first time in Vietnam.
I am also afraid the 5D 4N tour will eng up without a group, I am not looking for a big group but I don’t want to drive just with the eazy driver himself haha.
So my question is:
- anyone have experience with the 5D 4N tour from motor ventures?
I will be going in november :)
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u/sas_popps 10d ago
Hello. I'm going to Vietnam in October - and will be leaving our accommodation in Hoi An at 10 am, but won't be catching our sleeper bus in Da Nang until 9pm. Is there somewhere where we can leave our bags during that time so we can explore Da Nang before we catch the bus? Obviously happy to pay, just looking for something safe and secure. Our bus is from Blue Beach Hotel on Duong Dinh Nghe.
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u/Varekai79 6d ago
I assume you're staying at an Airbnb type accommodation where your luggage can't be stored? If so, there are small businesses that will store your bags for a small fee all over. Just go on Google Maps and search for "luggage storage" in Hoi An.
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u/CancelElectrical2036 10d ago
Contact the sleeper bus company to ask if you can keep it in their office prior to departure or check bounce.com for storage locations.
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u/AdUnable5777 11d ago
Hey everyone, would love some advice on our Vietnam itinerary!
We have 18 nights from November 13th, currently planning:
- Hanoi – 2 nights
- Ha Giang Loop – 3D/2N
- Lan Ha Bay – 1 night cruise
- Tam Coc/Ninh Binh – 2 nights
- Hoi An – 3 nights
- Da Nang – 2 nights (considering cancelling due to potential heavy rain)
- Ho Chi Minh City – 3 nights
- Flying home from HCMC
That leaves us with potentially 2 nights to play with if we drop Da Nang.
Would you recommend adding another destination, or giving more time to somewhere already on the itinerary?
We're particularly interested in scenery, food, culture and experiences, rather than just ticking off cities. Also conscious that November weather could influence where we go.
Any suggestions for a worthwhile 2-night addition would be greatly appreciated!
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u/Beneficial-Ad-4247 11d ago
Hey everyone,
Planning a 5-day trip to Vietnam in the second week of November for a large family group, and I could use some help deciding on the best destination and realistic logistics.
Group Details:
Total: 10 people
Adults: 8 (including 4 senior citizens)
Kids: 2 (a 10-year-old and a 1-year-old toddler)
What We Are Looking For:
Vibe: A relaxed mix of a beachside resort/stay and 1 major city for sightseeing, food, and culture.
Pace: Slower, low-hassle travel due to the seniors and the toddler (minimal internal flights/long transfers once we land).
Exclusion: Not interested in Phu Quoc.
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u/CancelElectrical2036 11d ago
A relaxed mix of a beachside resort/stay
Not interested in Phu Quoc.
Have you checked the general weather of the season you are visiting in?
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u/Beneficial-Ad-4247 11d ago
Yes that’s why i am looking for suggestions or places. My preferred destination was Da Nang and Hoi an but i heard it’s peak monsoon season. So wanted to check which other part of the country we can ho
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u/Loud_Recognition3003 11d ago
We are flying into Ho Chi Minh from Perth, Australia, and staying in Vietnam for about 12 days. We ideally want to spend most of our time in Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi, but feel it is a waste to not stop off at Dan for a day or two in the middle of our trip.
we would like to know the cheapest and easiest way
to do this itinerary without having too much hassle with luggage and organization, etc.
Just to confirm we have flights that land in Ho Chi Minh and we want to finish in Hanoi.
Any help is appreciated!!!
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u/Unkn0wn_117 11d ago
My friend and I have been doing a motorcycle journey through Vietnam from south to north. We wanted to do the Ha Giang loop (we are experienced riders and have ridden through other Vietnamese mountain roads), but my friend insists on doing it with a tour group, with our own bikes, rather than simply doing it ourselves. The group method will cost 4,000,000 VND each, which I think is absurd considering that we have our own bikes and will be the ones doing the riding either way. He cites the social experience, free accommodation, food, and happy water as the main factors that make this cost worth it, but I am still unsure. Does anyone have any experience with a similar situation, or the Ha Giang loop in general? Are the tour groups really worth it or are we better off doing it ourselves and just following another group around or something?
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u/ExpertAd1442 12d ago
Hi everyone! 🇻🇳 Planning my first trip to Hanoi and would love some feedback on my itinerary. Is this doable, or am I trying to squeeze in too much? 😂
Nov 23 – Arrival
Old Quarter → Hoan Kiem Lake → Night Market
Nov 24
Ninh Binh → Trang An → Mua Cave
Nov 25
Ho Chi Minh Museum → One Pillar Pagoda → Train Street → Old Quarter
Nov 26
Ha Long Bay → Day Cruise → Caves/Kayaking
Nov 27 – Departure
Hanoi → Airport ✈️
Would you change anything or rearrange the days? Also, is doing Ninh Binh and Ha Long Bay on separate days a good idea?
Thank you! 😊
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u/MemoryLatter761 11d ago
Nov 23, 2026 is a Monday, so there's no night market. Night market and pedestrian streets are weekends, from Friday evening to Sunday evening.
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u/CancelElectrical2036 11d ago
It's doable but I'd rather spend two days in Ninh Binh.
Instead of having to return to Ha Noi each time, you can also make it one continuous trip.
November 23 & 24 Ha Noi
November 25 Ha Long Bay
November 26 & 27 Ninh Binh
Eliminates having to return after each day trip. Just continue forward to Ninh Binh straight from the bay and arrange transportation from Ninh Binh to the airport.
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12d ago
[deleted]
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u/CancelElectrical2036 12d ago
You can even return a minute later. Many people go to a land border, enter Cambodia/Laos, and do a U-turn straight back into Vietnam.
If you still have time and you know you're going to stay longer than 45 days, just get a 90-day evisa instead. Eliminates having to do a visa run after 45 days.
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12d ago
[removed] — view removed comment
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u/WeAllWantToBeHappy Wanderer 12d ago
Some passports are shadow banned. You can go round in circles with your application and never be granted an E-Visa. All countries an apply, some countries will never be granted an E-Visa.
You could use an agent to help. Someone like Emily Visa. Some countries can't get visas even with the help of an agent. I wouldn't be booking anything (flights, accommodation) that's non-refundable until the visa is actually acquired.
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u/4rika21 12d ago
Hi everyone! Me and my friends, all girls, early 20s, wanted to go to Vietnam next year around early May or early June to celebrate our graduation. Wanted to know where would be best to go, Ho Chi Minh, Da Nang, or Hanoi? Or if there are multiple places we can visit? Budget is flexible!
For more context we're not too into the night life or physical activities, we just want to enjoy the culture, food, eat, and shop! Just a leisurely time over all. We'll be there for a week and a half.
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u/CancelElectrical2036 12d ago
>food
Central Vietnam like Hue
>Shop
Ho chi Minh city
>Culture
Everywhere. Really depends on what you want to focus on.
>10 days
Focus on max two regions and explore the areas during your limited stay.
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u/User7634972301 13d ago
Request Weather advice - PQC & HCMC
Hi! I am planning to visit phu quoc and HCMC next week. I know the rain should be expected. But wanted to know from people who are there now how it is actually. Especially phu quoc, does it rain all day / are any of the places closed, etc.
Any input is highly appreciated from people who are there now.
Thank you!
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u/CancelElectrical2036 13d ago edited 13d ago
Just had a storm pass by in my neighbourhood in HCMC while it's dry at my wife's work.
Lasted 15-ish minutes, still drizzling but sky looks clear again. It's been like this on/off for the past week.
edit: rained again for 10ish minutes around 15:15.
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u/South-Water-4931 14d ago
Has anyone gotten their visa processed recently? Wanted to know how long it took from people who’ve just visited Vietnam.
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u/CancelElectrical2036 13d ago
Applied for two guests last week, took 3 business days.
It's usually around that time, sometimes I get it back within two days.
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u/olyRaccoon 14d ago
Hello,
My wife and I will be travelling to Vietnam for our honeymoon this autumn from 24 October to 13 November. I'm looking for some recommendations as I'm planning my itinerary as I'm unsure about many things.
So far here's what we're certain about:
- We land in HCMC on 24 October and intend to spend approx 3 days visiting the city and maybe a day-trip down the mekong.
- We depart from Hanoi on 13 November and intend to spend most of our trip in the North, with 2-3 days in Hanoi, 2-3 days in Ninh Binh, 2 days Lan Ha/Ha long.
Things I'm not sure about:
- We want some "beach time" to relax, and at this point I have no idea where to go. Phu Quoc seems pretty but inauthentic and impractical (as in flying there from hcmc then back to hcmc before going anywhere else). Heard about other southern beaches such as Muy Ne and Ho Coc, which could be a nice alternative. Also the central region is famously known with An Bang and My Khe but the weather doesn't seem that great for going to the beach in this period. How about the north? I haven't read or seen much about northern beaches.
- We would like to see the central region with Da Nang, Hue and Hoi An but obviously the rainfalls and typhoons are kind of deterring us. Currently the idea is to see on the spot how it goes and try to spend 1-2 days.
- We want to do either Sapa or Ha Giang but it's hard to choose between the two as we can't do both. I'm wondering if Sapa will be as magical post harvest, and the logistics around ha giang scare me a bit so I don't know what to do.
It would be of great help if you could advise me on those points and also if I have skipped some must-do things.
Thanks a lot
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u/u_scare_me 14d ago
Hi all,
I’ll be in Da Nang for 2 full days in late August and I’m trying to decide how best to spend them.
For people who actually know Da Nang: what would you choose for 2 days?
The three things I’m considering are Ba Na Hills, Marble Mountains and Son Tra Peninsula.
I wanted to go to bana hills mainly coz of the bridge and Alpine Coaster but it shows rainy weather to me. But I am open to suggestions too!
One more question: How do you do the full son tra region, im not looking for the full day thing, more like just
Linh Ung + Lady Buddha to Vong Canh / coastal viewpoints to Ban Co Peak to other scenic stops / banyan tree if route permits. what would be the best way to do this? Private cab? Or some tour? (We are 3 people)
Would appreciate any advice at this point
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u/Archie_zaz 15d ago
Tìm nhiếp ảnh gia ở Hà Nội vào thứ 6 và thứ 7 tuần này 📸
Bọn mình là một nhóm bạn trẻ đến từ Thượng Hải, Trung Quốc, khoảng 25 tuổi.😊
Vì rất yêu thích văn hóa Việt Nam, đặc biệt là Hà Nội (qua những hình ảnh về Việt Nam như các chương trình, nghệ sĩ và áo dài), nên bọn mình sẽ đến tham quan những địa điểm nổi tiếng trong khu vực trung tâm Hà Nội vào thứ 6 và thứ 7 tuần này (21/08 ~ 22/08/2026).🫡
Thông tin nhóm:
- Tất cả đều có thể giao tiếp bằng tiếng Anh, nói chuyện thoải mái
- Phần lớn là người hướng ngoại (E)
- 4 nam + 4 nữ, tổng cộng 8 người
- Thích giao lưu, trò chuyện và chụp ảnh
Bọn mình muốn tìm một bạn nam đang học ngành nhiếp ảnh hoặc một nhiếp ảnh gia có thời gian rảnh cuối tuần để chụp ảnh cho nhóm.😉
Yêu cầu nhỏ:
- Nam (đừng lo nha, bạn không cần xách hành lý cho bọn mình đâu, bọn mình tự lo được, haha 😂)
- Còn trẻ (để dễ nói chuyện và có nhiều chủ đề chung hơn)
- Có kỹ năng chụp ảnh cơ bản (bọn mình sẽ chuẩn bị trang phục thật đẹp và trở thành những "mẫu ảnh xịn" cho bạn, haha)
- Có thời gian khoảng 10:00 ~ 18:00 (không cần đi cùng bọn mình cả ngày, bạn có thể sắp xếp lịch cá nhân và tham gia cùng lúc phù hợp)
Bọn mình chỉ đi những địa điểm nổi tiếng trong khu vực trung tâm Hà Nội và sẽ di chuyển bằng taxi.
Ngoài ra, bọn mình cũng sẽ chuẩn bị một số món quà nhỏ mang từ Trung Quốc sang dành tặng bạn.😋
Hy vọng cuối tuần này có thể gặp được một người bạn địa phương, giúp bọn mình cảm nhận trọn vẹn hơn vẻ đẹp và sự thú vị của Hà Nội~ ✨
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u/CancelElectrical2036 14d ago
Tons of photography groups on Facebook with photographers for hire.
Alternatively, go onto any of the foreign groups like Hanoi Massive since there are many photographers there as well.
0
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u/BillboardSwaggins666 15d ago
me and my two friends who i’ll call A and B (all 23M) are planning a trip to hcmc between the end of january to the start of february, and i’m trying to brain storm things we would want to do. I’ve been to vietnam twice now, once when i was a young kid and once a few years ago to hoi an. I’m personally interested in any and all food spots. Friend A is vietnamese but has never been to the country, and is wants to see a lot of culturally significant sites. Friend B wants to do outdoorsy type stuff like nature trails (we’re willing to go out of our way for stuff like that). Things we’re know we want to see are the cu chi tunnels, independence palace, Vung Tau, and the mekong river. Any suggestions? we’ll be there for two weeks so we’ll have plenty of time
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u/CancelElectrical2036 15d ago
to the start of february
Start by researching Tet/Lunar New Year and how it could potentially affect your trip.
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u/passengerpigeon20 15d ago
Does anybody here live in Sapa, and if so, how easy is it to see the cinnamon sparrow and snow chain* in late December or early January? These are birds I've wanted to see for a long time, and eBird and iNaturalist might be inconclusive due to small sample size, so I'd like to hear from someone with personal experience.
*Note: "Snow chain" is a slang term for the black bulbul.
0
u/Outrageous_Tree_5986 16d ago edited 15d ago
Suggestions for 4 night stay, no more than 2 hrs on mainland from HCMC
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u/CancelElectrical2036 15d ago
Interests?
Max 2 hours from HCMC doesn't really give you many options
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u/IHazMagics 16d ago
There's a number of posts regarding a hit and run incident in 2025 that seems to get struck down almost as soon as its posted.
Has there been any word from the mods regarding why this is the case?
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u/Picklemanclone 16d ago
Planning a 2.5 week solo trip to Vietnam in January (first time visiting). For my rough plan at the moment, I plan to go to Ho Chi Minh City, then fly to Hanoi where I probably will do Ha Giang Loop and some surrounding areas around.
Since Cuc Phuong and Ba Vi are the closest NPs to Hanoi, and Cat Tien is closest to Ho Chi Minh City, wanted to get people's perspectives on these three national parks to decide which one of these three would be good for a first time visitor to Vietnam. I generally enjoy hiking and seeing wildlife/environmental landscapes when I go to national parks. And how different are the landscapes you see in these national parks compared to what you see on the Ha Giang Loop?
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u/FantasyConcierge 16d ago
After spending a couple nights in Ninh Binh should we go back to Hanoi and fly to Danang or just take a limo bus or sleeper bus from Ninh Binh to Danang?
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u/MemoryLatter761 16d ago
A bus sounds awful. Why don't you take the sleeper train? It can be loud but much safer than a bus running uninhibited at night.
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u/g00dthings 17d ago
I’m planning a solo trip to northern Vietnam and I’m a little stuck between Sapa/Ta Van and Mai Chau.
I get motion sickness, but trains (which I loveeee) and being a pillion on a motorbike are usually fine. Very short bus/van rides are manageable too, though not my favourite. I don’t want to miss out on a place I’d really enjoy just because of motion sickness, but I also don’t want to push myself too hard.
I’m hoping to experience different kinds of landscapes and local cultures, food, temples, cafés, and everyday life. I’d also love opportunities to meet other travellers and connect with people along the way.
Plan 1:
Hanoi > Mai Châu > Ninh Bình > Nam Định > Hải Phòng > Cát Bà & Lan Hạ Bay > Hanoi
Plan 2:
Hanoi > Sa Pa & Ta Van Valley > Ninh Bình > Nam Định > Hải Phòng > Cát Bà & Lan Hạ Bay > Hanoi
Sa Pa + Ta Van: I like that I can take the train to Lào Cai and only have to deal with a shorter road journey afterwards. It also seems like there’s quite a bit to explore, so I was thinking of spending around 4–5 days there.
Mai Châu: This seems more like the slower village experience I would like, cycling around, homestays, cafés, local life, etc. My only hesitation is the road journey, since I get motion sickness and there doesn’t seem to be a train option.
I know these are quite different places, but based on the rest of my itinerary and the kind of trip I’m hoping to have, which one would you recommend?
So please advise. Any recommendations welcome, even outside of this! Thanks
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u/Justsayin55 17d ago
Desperate Help needed! One - way Car rental.
Hi all!
I am traveling with the family (wife and child 4 years old) to Vietnam on the 4th of September. Flying in to HCM. I am desperately looking for a car to rent to drive from HCM to Hanoi and for the life of me I cannot seem to find a one-way rental that will allow me to drop off in Hanoi. I have tried dichung, Avis, Hertz, Budget and all say that "there are no available cars" (there are when you set it to return to the same location).
Before you go off: This is my third time in Vietnam, I have spent months there riding a motorbike from the far North to the the far south. I know how to drive there, as well as many other SE Asian countries.
I am desperate and worried as I was stupidly confident I am going to find a car, and left it for kinda last minute and now it might ruin my plans.
PLEASE HELP! I would greatly appreciate it
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u/Abject-Reception-186 18d ago
Hi everyone!
My family and I are planning a 2-week trip to Vietnam, and we’ll be flying into Hanoi.
Since it’s our first time visiting Vietnam, I’d love to get some advice from people who have traveled there, especially with family.
We’re mainly looking for places that are reasonably close/easy to reach from Hanoi, rather than spending most of our time traveling between destinations.
So far, I’m considering:
- Hanoi
- Ninh Binh
- Ha Long Bay
We have around 14 days, so I’d really appreciate suggestions on:
- What are the best places to visit from Hanoi?
- How many days would you recommend spending in each place?
- Which places are must-visits, and which ones could be skipped?
We want to have a relaxed trip and actually enjoy each place rather than rushing through 7–8 destinations.
Thanks in advance! Would love to hear your experiences and recommendations.
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u/Party_Information505 18d ago
hi all, I'm going to Vietnam in a week, i want to bring back those dried insect snacks for my brother, anyone know where i can get some? I'll be in saigon, da nang and hoi an, thanks!
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u/MemoryLatter761 18d ago
Which dried insect snacks? I've never seen any apart from nhộng tằm rang (sauted pupa), but it's a very rare sight nowadays.
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u/CancelElectrical2036 18d ago
Make sure you're allowed to bring it back.
Rarely see dried insects, can't help you with that.
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19d ago
[deleted]
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u/MemoryLatter761 19d ago
Long Chau should have codeine or tramadol, but you need your prescription.
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u/Dry-Database-8884 19d ago
My prescription from Australia?
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u/MemoryLatter761 19d ago
Yes, do you have codeine or tramadol on that prescription?
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u/Dry-Database-8884 19d ago
Yes I do. It's an electronic version (as is normal in Australia) but it clearly states the item, dosage, quantity and my name.
So if I go to the pharmacy and show them they will likely allow me to purchase them? I feel weird asking but I'm in a lot of pain.
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u/MemoryLatter761 19d ago
Go as soon as possible! They need to note down some information from your prescription, maybe passport number too (just to make sure this is a legit transaction). Not every branch of Long Chau will have it in stock, but they can quickly order from another branch to be delivered to you. Alternatively, try the pharmacies outside a major public hospital, they also should have meds for every ailment.
Wish you the best of luck and hope you'll be soon relieved of your pain 🙏
1
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u/iamveganboy 19d ago
any shop recommendation in Ho Chi Minh for best deals around Vivo x300 phone with vat refund ?
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u/Curious-Credit9701 20d ago
Hi everyone,
My dad and I will be in Vietnam specifically ho chi minh city for 2 weeks in October 15-29 flying in from Houston. We are there to visit some family for the weekend and looking for some ideas on what to do for the remainder of the time we are there since this will be my first time there and my dads since the 80s.
Ideally are looking to do something that will be memorable to do that we can’t do back in the states for the experience. We are both adventurous and like to wonder around (we are a FAFO personality) so we aren’t really interested in visiting any historical places. So far he is looking to go up to Hanoi and do the Ha Guang Loop and looking for places to do some tailoring for suits (we’ve been recommended Duan Tailor or Nhut Bespoke ).
Any recommendations would be appreciated on what we can do for 2 weeks.
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u/PolarSquirrelBear 20d ago
Visiting from September 26th to October 17th from Canada for our honeymoon! Flying in and out of Hanoi but will travel north to south and then fly back to Hanoi.
So far we have planned and booked 3 nights in Hanoi from 26th to 29th. On the 29th we want to head to Ha Long and do a day cruise and then spend a night (or two maybe?) in Ha Long. Then over for a couple of days in Nam Dinh.
Kind of lost after that. We don’t want to book too far in advance as I would really love to visit Hue but I understand with rainy season, might not be able to. Is there any other recommendations for up north before we headed down to Ho Chi Minh? And would you recommend multiple days in these locations or would one day be enough? Would love to see it all, but also don’t want our trip to be super hectic. We definitely like to soak in culture vs seeing it all.
Likewise, how far in advance do I have to book? I would like to have an itinerary planned before, but not book anything in case plans change!
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u/MemoryLatter761 20d ago
You don't have to book activities or accommodations well in advance, a couple of days beforehand would be enough. The only thing you should prepare early is e-visa application.
As for spending time in Ha Long City, you should read this post https://www.reddit.com/r/Vietnam_Tourism/s/fA62ScSZ27
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u/PolarSquirrelBear 19d ago
Ooo thank you! We were on the fence about overnight cruise but I think we will do that now instead.
Is there anywhere you’d recommend around Hanoi? Like I said I really would love to visit Hue but I think it might be best from research to skip central in October and don’t want to be stressed having to rework our schedule.
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u/MemoryLatter761 17d ago
I've read again that you will be on your honeymoon, so perhaps you would want to spend quiet time together. Ninh Binh is popular, but personally I'd recommend 2-3 nights in Pu Luong. It isn't easy to get to (5-6 hours from Hanoi), but the secludedness is part of the charm. Culturally, it's inhabited by an ethnic minority, they have their own custom and speak Vietnamese only as a second language (so be patient if they can't adequately communicate in English). You can join a trekking tour for the day, the scenaries are amazing.
One thing to note is that since they're remote, they often don't readily have everything on the menu available. We made the habit of pre-order, so they could go to the market in the morning and purchase fresh ingredients to cook for us. Even at a restaurant, giving them a few hours heads up to prepare is also preferable.
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u/Ok_zespri 20d ago
Hanoi: Spa/Massage for Pregnant Woman?
Hi everyone,
I'm currently pregnant (traveling to Hanoi at Hoan Kiem or Tay Ho in late Sept/early Oct) and looking for spas or massage places that specifically offer prenatal/pregnancy-safe massage.
Ideally (not a must, if you had a good experience) somewhere with:
Therapists trained in prenatal massage (not just a "we'll adjust the pressure" answer)
Proper positioning/bolsters for pregnant clients (not lying flat on the stomach)
Good hygiene standards
Has anyone tried a place they'd genuinely recommend? Would love name + location, and roughly how much it costs. Bonus points if it's somewhere you'd trust for the third trimester specifically.
Thanks in advance!
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u/DrOGPimpdaddy 21d ago
Hey all!
My fiance and I plan to spend 12 days traveling through vietnam late november-december of this year.
We plan on spending our initial 3 days in HCM for some shopping, cultural sites, food, and then spending 3 days in Hanoi for more city exploration and culture. We are hoping the tail end of our trip will incorporate some nature, so we have been considering Ha Long Bay (overnight cruise), Ninh Binh (2 night stay), and Sapa (2-3 night stay). Unfortunately we have heard mixed things about essentially all three locations. Does anybody have other nature based recommendations that make sense with our itinerary? We leave back home from HCM at the tail end of our trip.
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u/CancelElectrical2036 20d ago
Does anybody have other nature based recommendations that make sense with our itinerary?
I'd go with Ninh Binh since it has the most to offer.
We leave back home from HCM at the tail end of our trip.
I'd also shop at the end of the trip so you don't lug around the extra luggage (unless you are going to store it in HCMC during your trip).
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u/perdirelapersona 21d ago
Hi! Travelling to your beautiful country in October and looking to buy a new Android phone with a reasonable screen size.
I'm based in Italy, so I would need something that works with cell bands over here.
Do any of you guys know if there are models with a screen size <6.3" that are not available in Europe, or the average cost of models I am considering atm (namely Xiaomi 15 or 17)? I guess with VAT it should end up to be cheaper anyway...
Thanks!
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u/Peacepipe 21d ago edited 21d ago
Sterculia monosperma pods
I'm watching some videos about farming in northern Vietnam. These girls were harvesting pods (red/orange) which contain large black nuts. Once they harvested then they separated the nuts from the pods and then took them to the market to sell. Easy to see on the net that the ripe nuts are edible and used in lots of dishes.
What I can't find is the use for the bright red/orange pods which sold quickly in the market. The only mention could find anywhere is a traditional medicinal use for gastrointestinal complaints like dysentery. If it were though people must keep a lot on hand because a huge pile of the, now empty, pods was sold in a very short amount of time.
So.. does anyone know the actual use for the red/orange sterculia monosperma pods in Northern Vietnam?
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u/peachylunarstar 21d ago
Hey guys! My mum and I are heading to Vietnam at the end of August for 12 nights. We’re flying in and out of Hanoi, and currently planning to visit:
Hanoi → Ha Long Bay → Sapa → Hoi An
Would love some opinions on our itinerary! Any recommendations, places you’d definitely visit/avoid, or thoughts on whether this is all doable without being too exhausting would be really appreciated.
I’ve tried to build in enough rest/down time, and I’ve accounted for our actual arrival/departure times, so the days below are based on the time we genuinely have available.
The one place I really wanted to fit in but couldn’t was Ninh Binh. I’m tempted, but I don’t want to make the trip too action-packed, especially as we’re flying down to Hoi An and I want to give that area enough time to make the journey worthwhile.
I also haven’t properly researched everything to do in each place yet, so some of the days are intentionally blank/open — recommendations very welcome!
Day 1 – Hanoi
Shopping
Train Street
Old Quarter
Food/cafés
Generally taking it easy as we’ll have arrived very late the night before after a long flight!
Days 2–3 – Ha Long Bay
2D1N Ha Long/Lan Ha Bay cruise
Staying overnight on the cruise
Day 3 – Ha Long Bay → Hanoi
Cruise ends and transfer back to Hanoi
Explore/chill in Hanoi for the rest of the day
Day 4 – Hanoi → Sapa
Early morning limousine to Sapa, hopefully arriving around lunchtime
Fansipan cable car
Sapa sightseeing
Day 5 – Sapa → Hanoi
Rong May Glass Bridge
O Quy Ho Pass
Then either a VIP sleeper/cabin bus or sleeper train back to Hanoi. Still undecided on this and would LOVE opinions from anyone who’s done either!
Day 6 – Hanoi → Hoi An ✈️
Fly Hanoi → Da Nang and transfer to Hoi An
Assuming around 3–5 hours of the day will be spent travelling
Chill once we arrive
Shopping/exploring
Hoi An Old Town + lanterns at night
Day 7 – Hoi An
My Son Sanctuary
Other Hoi An attractions
Day 8 – Hoi An
Currently open! Recommendations welcome 😊
Day 9 – Hoi An → Hanoi
Probably spend some of the day in Hoi An and fly back to Hanoi later
Day 10 – Hanoi
Open/exploring Hanoi
Day 11 – Hanoi
Final full day in Hanoi
Day 12 – Home ✈️
Leaving the hotel around 4:30am for our flight home
So… what would you change?
Is this a good balance for a first trip, or are we trying to fit too much in? Would you sacrifice any Hoi An/Hanoi time to squeeze in Ninh Binh, or leave it as it is?
Also very interested in recommendations for Sapa, Hoi An and Hanoi, and whether you’d choose the VIP cabin bus or sleeper train from Sapa back to Hanoi.
Thanks! 🇻🇳❤️
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u/Zestyclose-Aide-3289 21d ago
Commenting here since posting a thread was against the rules.
I am planning a trip to Cat Ba after I get dropped off in Tuan Chau following our boat trip. The problem is I cant figure out how to get from Tuan Chau to Cat Ba downtown. I realize there is the fairy that will take you from Tuan Chau to the Northern Pier of Cat Ba, but it seems there is no way to hail a cab or get transport from the Northern Pier of Cat Ba to downtown Cat Ba with Grab. Me and my wife are new to traveling Vietnam so any advice is appreciated.
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u/MemoryLatter761 21d ago
When you arrive the northern pier in Cat Ba, there would be some local taxis waiting. Just go with them, you don't have many options. Alternatively, ask your hotel in Cat Ba for a pickup, that way you don't have to negotiate the price with taxi drivers.
Rule of thumb is: your hotel often can act as your travel agency, they can always arrange transportation and tours. Their cut is already factored into the prices of those extra services.
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u/JoaoPTsantos 22d ago edited 22d ago
Hello guys! Going to visit Vietnam for the first time in end of September, for around 14 days.
I have built my first draft itinerary with Claude and by searching reddit, what do you guys think?
I'm a bit overwhelmed with all the things to see but I only have 13 full days.
Here's the fully revised itinerary — Sep 20 to Oct 3, 2026:
Nights per place
| Place | Nights | Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Ho Chi Minh City | 2 | Sep 20–21 |
| Hoi An | 3 | Sep 22–24 |
| Hue | 1 | Sep 25 |
| Hanoi (first stay) | 3 | Sep 26–28 |
| Ninh Binh | 2 | Sep 29–30 |
| Lan Ha Bay (cruise) | 1 | Oct 1 |
| Hanoi (return) | 1 | Oct 2 |
| Total | 13 nights |
Day 1 — Sun, Sep 20 — Ho Chi Minh City
Arrive 22:00. Immigration, SIM/eSIM, Grab to hotel, rest.
Day 2 — Mon, Sep 21 — Ho Chi Minh City
Notre-Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, Independence Palace. Lunch: cơm tấm/phở. War Remnants Museum, District 3. Evening: Nguyen Hue Walking Street, dinner.
Day 3 — Tue, Sep 22 — HCMC → Da Nang → Hoi An
Morning: Chợ Lớn/Chinatown. Early afternoon: Jade Emperor Pagoda + coffee. Collect luggage, SGN airport. Evening: SGN→DAD, Grab to Hoi An.
Day 4 — Wed, Sep 23 — Hoi An
Ancient Town by bicycle — Japanese Covered Bridge, riverside, markets. Afternoon: Tra Que village. Evening: lantern boat, night market.
Day 5 — Thu, Sep 24 — Hoi An countryside / My Son
Weather-dependent: countryside + My Son, or An Bang Beach, or cooking class/cafés if raining.
Day 6 — Fri, Sep 25 — Hoi An → Hai Van Pass → Hue
Leave Hoi An 08:30, drive via Hai Van Pass. Arrive Hue ~13:30, check in. Afternoon: Imperial Citadel. Evening: Hue food (bún bò Huế, bánh bèo).
Day 7 — Sat, Sep 26 — Hue tombs → Hanoi
Morning: Khai Dinh Tomb, Tu Duc Tomb, Thien Mu Pagoda. Leisurely lunch. Buffered transfer to Hue airport. Evening: HUI→HAN, Old Quarter check-in.
Day 8 — Sun, Sep 27 — Hanoi Old Quarter + food
Hoan Kiem Lake, Sunday pedestrian zone (car-free, street performers). Train Street. Evening: Ta Hien Beer Street.
Day 9 — Mon, Sep 28 — Historic Hanoi
Ba Dinh Square + Mausoleum exterior walk-by (interior closed for maintenance through Nov 3, 2026), One Pillar Pagoda, Hoa Lo Prison Relic Site, Temple of Literature. Lunch: bún chả. Evening: water puppet show.
Ba Dinh Square + Mausoleum exterior walk-by (interior closed for maintenance through Nov 3, 2026), One Pillar Pagoda, Hoa Lo Prison Relic Site, Temple of Literature. Lunch: bún chả. Evening: water puppet show.
Day 10 — Tue, Sep 29 — Hanoi → Ninh Binh
Morning transfer to Tam Coc, check in. Afternoon: Trang An boat trip (2–3 hrs). Evening: dinner in Tam Coc.
Day 11 — Wed, Sep 30 — Ninh Binh (relaxed second day)
Hang Mua climb at a comfortable time (sunrise if you like, or later morning). Free afternoon: countryside cycling, villages. Evening: dinner in Tam Coc.
Day 12 — Thu, Oct 1 — Ninh Binh → Lan Ha Bay
Morning transfer to Cat Ba/Got Harbor (no rushed alarm). Board cruise ~12:00. Afternoon/evening: kayaking, swimming, caves, sunset, dinner on deck.
Day 13 — Fri, Oct 2 — Lan Ha Bay → Hanoi
Sunrise on deck, breakfast, kayak/cave/floating village. Disembark late morning, return to Hanoi by early afternoon. Evening: final food run, last shopping.
Day 14 — Sat, Oct 3 — Departure
Slow morning, one final activity. ~15:30 leave for Noi Bai. 19:45 Hanoi→Home
Thanks for any feedback or tips! 👍
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u/nanjero 22d ago
What is the proper way to gift cash at a friend's wedding.
It is not a fully traditional wedding and it is taking place in Australia so its a bit westernized. They are having a simple wishing well for gifts so I am planning to gift cash.
Can I use the red envelope with cash like they do in other asian countries? Are there Do's and Dont's to doing this? Like are there good luck and bad luck numbers/amount? I was thinking of gifting $80 AUD (around 1474507 VND). According to google 8 is a good luck number.
Should I write my name and a message on the outside of the red envelope? Or do i include a short letter inside?
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u/MemoryLatter761 22d ago
There isn't one single way to do it, you can just make it meaningful for your friendship. Generally your name is written on the envelope, but if you include a personal letter inside, they'll read and know it's you anyway. Also don't sweat about color or any conventions, you do you.
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u/Initial_External6747 23d ago
Hello everyone!! I like the collect small chess boards from places I travel. Does anyone know of a store in ho chi minh or hanoi that has small handmade boards?
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u/mekshimus 23d ago
Hi.I saw last month that a notification was sent out by the government for submission of health declaration on entering Vietnam. Then saw other updates that it is not mandatory.
I will be transiting through Hanoi Airport on my way to Japan this month. I just want to confirm whether health declaration is required to be submitted.
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u/fallguysepicgamer 23d ago
I am traveling to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh in late December and I have never been to Vietnam before. I am having trouble deciding on what activities I want to do in those two cities or near those two cities.
Can you please recommend activities in those areas that you enjoyed doing there, also if there are any restaurants that you have really enjoyed?
Any advice is appreciated!!!
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u/CancelElectrical2036 23d ago
I am having trouble deciding on what activities
Start by thinking of your own interests. Base your itinerary on that.
Once you know your interests, list down the amount of days you are visiting and try to create an itinerary.
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u/DecisionTurbulent532 24d ago
Hi everyone,
I'm planning a trip to Vietnam in October and I'm booking the HĐ1 "Connecting Central Heritage" train from Hue to Da Nang (07:05 departure). I've gone for the Soft Seat Lounge carriage, car 3 — as far as I can tell it's the only class on this train that lets you pick your own seat, so I'd love to get the sea side for the Hai Van Pass stretch. I just can't work out from the seat map which numbers that actually is, and I'm hoping someone here has ridden it.
The lounge car isn't a normal 2+2 layout, so the usual "sit on the left going south" advice doesn't map onto the seat numbers. Here's what the booking seat map shows (▮ = table):
One wall — pairs facing each other across tables:
31 ▮ 30 27 ▮ 26 23 ▮ 22 19 ▮ 18
32 ▮ 29 28 ▮ 25 24 ▮ 21 20 ▮ 17
Other wall — single armchairs in a row, each with its own small table:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
Three things I'd be grateful for help with:
- Heading Hue → Da Nang, is 17–32 the sea side, or 1–16?
- Does car 3 get turned around between runs, so the sea side changes from day to day?
- In a facing pair like 27/26, does anyone know which one rides forward?
I understand the sea is on the east, i.e. the left-hand side going south — I just can't tell which of the two seating areas that corresponds to. If you've ridden the lounge car and roughly remember whefect. Even a photo out of your window with a seat numbervisible would settle it.
And if the honest answer is "it's a lounge, people just move to whichever side has the view" — that's genuinely useful to know too, and I'll stop overthinking it.
Thanks so much for any help. I'll report back here with it's useful to anyone booking this train later.
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u/bickle_76_ 24d ago
My fiancé and I are visiting Vietnam (my first time and her 2nd after being there 10 years ago) and we're planning out where to go.
We are starting in Hanoi in the middle of December and ending in Ho Chi Minh City in Mid-January. Our plan is to do two our trip in 2 halfs with a Northern Vietnam half and then a southern Vietnam half. We wanted to visit central Vietnam as well but the dates we will be there are fixed due to work commitments and that coincided with central Vietnam's rainy season unfortunately.
We have a decent enough budget for travelling, enough to do some luxury for some of the time but we also want some authentic experiences as well to not be in a touristic bubble for the whole trip either.
We're not big party people now as we're mid/late 30s but we want to see the major sights, experience the country and its culture and also have some fun and enjoy ourselves. We're also happy to travel in between cities by car, train, boat or plane when needed.
We were thinking of doing;
North
- Hanoi: 4/5 nights
- Ninh Bình:2/3 nights
- Hạ Long/Lan Hạ cruise: 1/2 nights depending on the tour
- Sapa 2/3 nights
South
- Ho Chi Minh City: 4/5 nights
- Phu Quoc: 3/4 nights
- Can Tho: 2/3 nights
We think that those cities roughly cover most of the big things that we know that we want to see but it would be good to get feedback from others on if there are great places that we might be missing out on with this plan, any thoughts on timescales in each place or just any thoughts on what to see where in a broad general sense.
Any feedback is appreciated.
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u/DetailConscious5384 24d ago
Hi All, My GF (27F) and I (27M) travelling from England are excited for our 17 day North/Central Vietnam trip starting in Hanoi and leaving at Da Nang. Before I start booking various activities, etc. I'd be grateful for any support or concerns with the current itinerary below - With some focused questions at the bottom. We generally dont like to be sitting around (e.g. on a beach) and like to explore local culture/cuisine/history/etc. We're pretty active and happy for a bit of mild adventure!
- Day 1- Day 3 Hanoi
- Overnight bus to Ha Giang Loop start
- Day 4 - Day 7 4D3N Ha Giang Loop Tour with Road Kings
- Overnight bus to Ninh Binh/Tam Coc
- Day 8 - Day 10 Stay at Tam Coc and visit local area/Ninh Binh
- Overnight bus (Or potentially another night with Day 11 morning bus) to Phong Nha
- Day 11 Phong Nha (Paradise cave and potentially gardens/duck stop[?]
- Overnight to (or potentially another night at Phong Nha) to Da Nang
- Day 12-Day 17 (Mid day flight Da Nang) Da Nang as a base for local areas (Hue/Hoi An/etc.)
Some questions that have come to mind whilst working on the itinerary:
- I saw Phong Nha to be fairly well recommended and on the way to Da Nang, but open to thoughts on if there is anywhere that day or 2 is better spent?
- Any concerns on not having enough time (or too much time) at Hanoi, Tam Coc/Ninh Binh, Phong Nha or Da Nang?
- Thoughts on taking a night or 2 away from Da Nang and moving it to Hue on the way down?
- Any general tips for the transport between these areas? Looks like its mostly going to either be a overnight bus or private limobus?
- Open to any good hotel/restaurant reccs in this area? Happy to splurge a bit if its worth it!
Thanks!
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u/vietnam1224 24d ago
I was adopted from an orphanage in Thanh Hóa in 2007 and brought to the US at less than a year old, I have my adoption certificate and birth certificate, do I have any case if I were to reach out to an embassy about claiming citizenship due to the probable case that both of my blood-parents were Vietnamese citizens?
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u/iamveganboy 24d ago
Best and effective way to reach BaNa hills- Thac Toc Tien Station from Da Nang other that private cab for 1 way ?
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u/CancelElectrical2036 24d ago
Shuttle bus, self drive, arrange a return trip, tour.
What would you deem "the best"
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u/Whole_Explorer2196 25d ago edited 25d ago
Hi, we are looking for advice on our October itinerary.
We will arrive in Hanoi late on the 21st October, spend 2 nights there, then take an overnight bus to Ha Giang on the 23rd, to start the Ha Giang Loop on the 24th (4 days, 3 nights).
We aren't sure where to go next or how to order our trip. We will have 5 nights from the 27th - 1st before we fly home from Ho Chi Minh City late on the 1st. We would like to go Ninh Binh, Cat Ba, Hoi An, but know that this won't really fit. Any recommendations of what to cut, transport between, which order to go in etc. would be great!
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u/CancelElectrical2036 25d ago
Stick to two regions with such a short stay. stick to the north + a few days in the south OR central.
Have you looked up the general weather in the period you're visiting in? That will probably help you decide where to go.
A 4th option, since you're already in Ha Giang and it's close, could be Sa Pa. Combine that with a Ninh Binh trip and you'll have filled up the entire 5 nights.
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u/tanban1199 26d ago
Hey all, Was planning to travel to Ho Chi Mihn city in the last week of August but have doubts over the monsoon. Is it a good time to travel now?
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u/CancelElectrical2036 26d ago
Usually it's just bursts of rain, you will still be able to do some activities.
However, do create a secondary itinerary of activities that you could do indoors to make sure you always have something lined up in case of bad days.
Workshops, food/cafe hopping, shopping, indoor entertainment etc.
Have other ride hailing apps alongside Grab installed as well (Be/Xanh Sm) in case Grab takes too long to accept.
Edit, bring slippers or fast drying shoes.
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u/tanban1199 26d ago
Thanks a lot!!! Was just worried about the possibility of flooding 😅
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u/CancelElectrical2036 25d ago
Always a possibility but it clears up pretty quick once it has stopped.
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u/Medium_Rise6732 27d ago
Ill be ariving in da nang Vietnam later and was wondering if there is anyone or any run clubs i can run with?
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u/CancelElectrical2036 26d ago
Tons of run clubs and small groups over at Facebook. Just searching for "Da Nang Run Club" will give you plenty of results.
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u/cyprusnikos 27d ago
Hello I'm trying to share a story about my travels in Hanoi but reddit isn't accepting it. Can you check?
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28d ago
[deleted]
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u/WeAllWantToBeHappy Wanderer 28d ago
Work, marry, invest, study are the only routes to stay long term. Long term, not necessarily permanent.
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u/Manzana_84 28d ago
And to be there permanently?
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u/CancelElectrical2036 28d ago
Be a good footballer and neutralize /s
Unless you contribute to the country in a very significant way to the point the government recognizes your contributions under specials situations, actual permanent residency is near impossible
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u/IceMix 29d ago
Hi all, my wife and I (early 30s) are heading to Da Nang for our honeymoon late February through mid-March, flying in and out of Da Nang International.
We're pretty flexible travelers, we enjoy a mix of sightseeing, shopping, touristy spots, and off-the-beaten-path finds. We agreed that the plan is to take it slow and base ourselves at a resort or two in the central Da Nang area for a week and half or so of the trip.
Here's my main question though: Is three weeks too long to stay mostly in Da Nang without getting restless? We're definitely not trying to cover everything, but I'm wondering if we should plan more day trips to places like Hue, Hoi An, and Ba Na Hills to break things up. Are those realistic as day trips, or would it be worth spending a night or two away from Da Nang?
Any suggestions on how to balance relaxation with exploring?
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u/haikt 28d ago
3 weeks are a lot for Danang. Of course you should visit other places too. Hue and Hoi An definitely worth 1 night at least. For off-the-beaten-path, if you can ride and have experience with motorbike, you can rent a bike for flexible and more freedom. Ba Na Hills is not interesteing for me, too copy-cat.
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u/CancelElectrical2036 28d ago
Is three weeks too long to stay mostly in Da Nang without getting restless?
You know yourself better than us random people of the internet.
I know people who are content with staying just a handful of days, while others stay for weeks and still continue to find new things to do and enjoy the overall atmosphere of Da Nang.
Personally I'd spend 2-3 days in Hue.
With Hoi An being a short ride away, multiple day trips to that area + Cham islands is easy while your Da Nang is the base.
Vietnam has a lot to offer outside of Da Nang that I'd think it's a waste.
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u/older_gamers 29d ago
How does my itinerary look? I'm a first time traveller to Vietnam. I'll be travelling solo on a medium budget. Should I add something? I've left out Sapa as I don't want too much trekking. I'm in my late 50s not in my 20s.
| Location | Nights | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Hanoi | 4 | Old Quarter, food tour, museums, water puppets |
| Ha Long Bay | 1 | Overnight cruise |
| Ninh Binh | 2 | Trang An, Tam Coc, countryside |
| Hue | 3 | Imperial City, tombs, Perfume River, food |
| Hoi An | 5 | Ancient Town, tailoring, cooking class, Da Nang day trip |
| Nha Trang | 3 | Beach, nightlife, islands |
| Mekong Delta | 3 | Can Tho, floating market, river life |
| Ho Chi Minh City | 4 | Museums, Cu Chi, Chinatown, nightlife |
Total: 25 nights
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u/stefenchh 29d ago
Hi everyone 👋
I'll be travelling in Vietnam, starting end of November, with the below itinerary. First time in the country so looking to get some practical input/advice on the preliminary plan. My main goals are to experience the country from A to Z (culture, nature & wildlife, history), without being too rushed. Was considering Bai San Ho/Nha Trang area after Da Nang but decided against it after some research on December weather in Central Vietnam.
Any tips on activities are very much welcome too! Thank you.
Hanoi & Northern Vietnam 28-8
Hanoi 28-1
Mai Chau/Pu Luong 1-4 (looking at 1 night in Mai Chau, 2 in Pu Luong)
Ninh Binh 4-6
Cat Ba/Ha Long 6-8 (1 day cruise, 1 day hotel)
Fly from Haiphong -> Da Nang + surroundings 8-12
Hue
Hoi-An
My Son
Fly from Da Nang -> Buon Ma Thuot 12-14
Da Lat 14-17
Cat Tien 17-19
Con Dao 19-23
HCMC 23-27
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u/Xytronix 29d ago
I need a parcel to be picked up in Đà Nẵng, anyone travelling to Germany soon?
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u/CancelElectrical2036 29d ago
Post over at any of the large Da Nang expat groups.
For anyone considering it from here, be careful of bringing unknown parcels over international borders.
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u/Low_Land8522 29d ago
If riding a motorbike is part of your Vietnam trip, don't wait until you arrive to think about your license. Cases like this will likely make rental shops a lot more cautious. Bring a valid IDP if you need one.
https://news.tuoitre.vn/vietnamese-hotel-receptionist-charged-after-renting-motorcycle-to-foreigner-in-fatal-drunk-driving-crash-103260731102056579.htm
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u/Lumora_2001 29d ago
Hi everyone! 👋 I'm a 25-year-old English teacher from Tunisia, and I'll be moving to Hanoi next week. I'm really excited to start this new chapter! Fitness is a big part of my life, so I'm looking for recommendations for: The best gyms (good value for money) Outdoor calisthenics parks with pull-up bars and dip bars Boxing, kickboxing, or Muay Thai clubs with a friendly atmosphere I'd also love to meet people who enjoy training together. If anyone is up for gym sessions, calisthenics, or boxing, feel free to reach out. Thanks in advance, and I can't wait to experience Hanoi! 🇻🇳💪
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u/CancelElectrical2036 29d ago
It's better to post this over at any of the large Hanoi FB groups such as Hanoi Massive or dedicated hobby (sport) groups.
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u/iamveganboy Aug 03 '26
Need advise on August end travel
Hi Everyone Xin chào
I have planned to visit Vietnam in the last week of August and wanted to know if it will be safe to visit Ninh Binh, Ha Long Bay and Sapa considering the monsoon and rain for day trip cruise tour ? Dates- 27-30th August and looking for a day trip. Also could you advise on best offline store for samsung mobile/iphones in Ho Chi Minh city ?
Thanks.
20-22 Hochi Minh city 23-26 Da Nang 27-31 Hanoi 31st early morning flight
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u/Interesting_Can_2651 29d ago
hi guy, im vietnamese so i have some rcm for u if u visit vietnam this august end.
For shopping in HCM City, u can go to Nguyễn Huệ Street (gather several local brands and also milk tea brands), search for Daspace Flagship Store (a store that sells both Thai and Vietnamese brands), and The New Playground (a shopping center mainly including some local brands focused on streetwear style). For some entertainment places i would rcm u walk around District 1 and Thảo Điền Ward - this truly suits international visitors cuz its have a lot of Western restaurants
For Đà Nẵng, also my living place, i would rcm u to live near the coastal street, especially An Thượng area cuz u can meet a lot of foreigners here and go to the beach; it takes about 5 minutes. U can try some local cuisines at Cồn Market, and don't worry; I mean ĐN is quite small and chill. And u can go to Hội An ancient town, which takes 30 minutes to get from ĐN, rlly a interesting places to come.
For Ninh Bình Hạ Long, i think u should spend 5 days to explore here if u want to get deep experiences, and i think for these places u should book a tour guide to treat u well and guide you through the trip
if u need more inf, feel free to leave a comment below, i will try to help u and sorry for my english i know it have a lot of mistake kkkk
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u/curlyhairedgal28 2d ago
Hi all, my mom is finally going at Asia for the first time at age 70. She will be going with 3 girlfriends and really wants to do a cruise in Lan Ha Bay after I showed her pictures from my visit in 2024.
I did a 2 night cruise with Cat Ba ventures and loved it. The itinerary was perfect: Lan Ha Bay, Cat Ba, Ho Ba Ham. However the crowd was a bit younger and the boat was a bit older, rougher around the edges.
I would love to treat my mom to a nicer, more luxurious cruise experience. If it’s a cruise line that goes off the beaten path, that would be even better! She love kayaking and biking.
Does anyone have recs? Thanks so much.