Visa and Entry Requirements
As an Australian citizen, you need a visa to enter Vietnam. You can apply online for an eVisa for tourism or business purposes. The eVisa is valid for 30 days and allows you to enter Vietnam through 33 designated ports of entry, including major airports, seaports, and land crossings. You need to apply for the eVisa at least five working days before your departure date and pay a fee of US$25. Or u can use our quick service and get the visa in 24 hours.
Alternatively, you can apply for a visa on arrival, which is also valid for 30 days and can be extended once in Vietnam. However, you need to obtain a visa approval letter from a travel agency or a sponsor in Vietnam before you travel. You also need to pay a stamping fee of US$25 at the airport.
You can also apply for a visa at the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate in Australia, but this may take longer and cost more than the online options.
You must have a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of entry and has at least two blank pages.
Health and Safety.
Vietnam is generally a safe and friendly country, but you should exercise normal safety precautions, as you would in Australia. Be aware of petty crime, such as bag snatching, pickpocketing, and taxi scams, especially in tourist areas and crowded places. Keep your valuables secure and avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Use reputable and metered taxis, or book them through your hotel or a ride-hailing app. Report any incidents to the local police and your travel insurance provider.
You should also be careful on the roads, as traffic can be chaotic and unpredictable. Road accidents are a major cause of injury and death in Vietnam. Avoid driving or riding a motorbike unless you have a valid license, insurance, and experience. Wear a helmet and follow the local traffic rules. If you are involved in an accident, stay calm and seek medical attention if needed.
You should also take care of your health, as there are some health risks in Vietnam. You should consult your doctor at least six weeks before your trip and get vaccinated against common diseases, such as hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus. You may also need vaccinations for other diseases, such as rabies, Japanese encephalitis, and malaria, depending on your itinerary and activities. You should also consider taking anti-malarial medication and using insect repellent to prevent mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue, zika, and chikungunya.
You should also avoid drinking tap water and ice, and only eat well-cooked food from hygienic places. Wash your hands frequently and carry hand sanitizer. If you get sick or injured, seek medical attention as soon as possible. There are private and public hospitals and clinics in major cities, but the quality and availability of health care may vary in rural areas. You should also have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, evacuation, and repatriation.
Culture and Customs.
-
Dress modestly and appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites, such as temples, pagodas, and churches. Cover your shoulders, knees, and chest, and remove your shoes and hat before entering. Do not touch or point at statues, relics, or monks.
-
Greet people with a smile and a nod, or a handshake if they offer one. Do not hug or kiss in public, as this is considered rude and inappropriate. Address people by their title and surname, or by Mr, Mrs, or Miss, followed by their first name. Do not use nicknames or first names only, unless you are invited to do so.
-
Be polite and courteous, and avoid raising your voice or showing anger. Do not criticize or complain about the government, politics, or the Vietnam War, as this is sensitive and taboo. Do not take photos of military or government buildings, or of people without their permission.
-
Bargain politely and reasonably, and do not get angry or aggressive. You can expect to pay about 50% to 70% of the initial price, depending on the item and the seller. Do not buy or accept any items that may be illegal or unethical, such as wildlife products, antiques, or drugs.
-
Tip generously and discreetly, as this is appreciated and expected in some situations. You can tip about 10% to 15% of the bill in restaurants, hotels, and spas, and about US$2 to US$5 per day for guides and drivers. You can also tip porters, bellboys, and cleaners about US$1 per service.
GET A WISE CARD NOW
Currency and Costs.
The currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese dong (VND), which is divided into 10 hao and 100 xu. However, these smaller units are rarely used. The exchange rate as of February 2024 is about 1 AUD = 17,000 VND.
You can exchange your dollars for Vietnamese dong at banks, hotels, or authorized exchange bureaus. You can also withdraw cash from ATMs, which are widely available in major cities and towns. However, you may be charged a fee by your bank and the local bank. You can also use your credit or debit card at some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but be aware of the risk of card fraud and skimming. One of the best ways to save money on your trip to Vietnam is to use a WISE card, a travel money card that lets you spend in Vietnamese dong and other currencies at the real exchange rate.
Vietnam is a relatively cheap destination, but the cost of living and travelling may vary depending on your location, season, and lifestyle. You can expect to spend about US$30 to US$50 per day for a budget trip, US$50 to US$100 per day for a mid-range trip, and US$100 to US$200 per day for a luxury trip. These estimates include accommodation, food, transport, and activities.
Weather and Climate
Vietnam has a tropical monsoon climate, with four distinct seasons in the north and two seasons in the south. The north has a hot and humid summer from May to October, and a cool and dry winter from November to April. The south has a hot and wet season from May to November, and a warm and dry season from December to April. The central region has a similar climate to the south, but with more variation and extremes.
The best time to visit Vietnam depends on your preferences and itinerary, but generally, the most pleasant and popular time is from November to April, when the weather is dry and mild throughout the country. However, this is also the peak season, so you may encounter higher prices and crowds. If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy lower prices, you can visit Vietnam from May to October, when the weather is hot and rainy, but still manageable. You can also experience some festivals and events, such as the Tet holiday, the Mid-Autumn Festival, and the Hoi An Lantern Festival.
How can I help you? 
