Traveling in Vietnam
The rice fields near Sapa, Vietnam
Vietnam is a country rich in culture and history. It's an ever changing country that is forever working to increase its tourism base. Although the growing tourism industry is improving the country's economy, the travel infrastructure often has the feel of mass marketing that flocks visitors from one attraction to the next. Still, it is possible to step outside of this structured vacation and see more of the Vietnam that has existed for centuries.
Despite its popularity as a travel destination for Australians and Europeans, for many American's Vietnam still conjures up memories of a long ago war. Once you arrive in this culturally rich country, you will find a place that has changed dramatically in the recent decades. Bicycles have been replaced by motorbikes, and more recently motorbikes are being replaced by cars. Towns have been restructured to offer amenities to visitors. Restaurants cater to both local and western palates. It's a country that sees the benefit of attracting foreigners, and it's still working out the best strategy to combine authenticity with convenience.
Vietnam's long narrow geography make it somewhat difficult to navigate, but this unusual shape also gives it a wonderful diversity of landscape and culture. In the north you can experience rural life in the mountainous Hmong communities around Sapa. As you head to the far south you can have the incredible experience of riding a boat through the floating markets on the Mekong Delta. In the middle you can dine on some of the country's best cuisine in Hoi An, or you can shop for tailor made cloths in any number of towns. Vietnam has embraced the tourism industry, and you can feel this at almost every corner. In markets you must negotiate hard with shopkeepers eagerly hoping to sell you a souvenir. Keep the bartering light, and negotiate with a smile and the experience will be far more fun for both sides.
Many people make the trip through Vietnam by traveling north to south. Buses are the most affordable option, but the trips can be long and are often overnight. If you're short on time consider taking at least one or two flights. They are reasonably priced and will save you a lot of time. The unfortunate downside of flying is you will likely miss out on some of the more interesting small towns in Vietnam.
At A Glance
- Consider getting in with the locals to really learn what the culture is like. One option is to become an English teacher in Vietnam so that you can become part of the community. Other volunteer options are available. Generally speaking, staying away from the larger organized tours, and traveling slowly will help with this.
- Haggling is part of the experience in Vietnam. If you keep it lighthearted and fun you'll find it less frustrating. Remember to cut the price to less than half of the originally offering price. It also helps to walk away a couple of times before settling on a price. This will help you see exactly what you should be paying for an item.
- Many people take the "VIP" buses through Vietnam. These can be arranged in your hotel or through any of the many travel agencies around town. Generally, all of the buses are comparable in quality. Many do break down, so be prepared. Wherever you decide to purchase your ticket, negotiate hard, because prices are often dramatically marked up.
- If you decide to purchase some tailor made cloths, most people do this in Hoi An. Make sure you have a few days in town and do your shopping on the first day. You'll want a few extra days in case the clothes don't fit appropriately and need to be resized. There are tailors of varying quality and you generally get what you pay for.
- There are plenty of western style restaurants throughout Vietnam, particularly in the more touristy areas. These restaurants are often dramatically more expensive than their local counterparts, and they are often a poor reflection on western cuisine. Stick to the local restaurants that serve up Vietnamese food and you'll save yourself a lot of money and have more interesting and delicious meals.
- Some of the more popular areas in Vietnam are almost always visited as part of a tour. These areas include the Mekong Delta and Halong Bay. Despite the appearance that you must visit these areas as part of a tour, it is very possible to travel to them independently on local buses or boats. The experience is often more enjoyable and memorable as well.
Related
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Halong Bay: This is one of the most popular attractions in all of Vietnam. It's a beautiful bay where islands jut out dramatically from the water making for a stunning scene, particularly in the evening and early morning hours. Most visitors come to Halong Bay as part of an organized boat tour which typically lasts several days.
Mekong Delta: This is a beautiful area in southern Vietnam where you can visit floating markets and see rural Vietnamese life. You can ride on boats through canals and visit local villages where tropical fruit and seafood are the norm.
Sapa: Located in the very northern part of Vietnam the beautiful mountains around Sapa are lined with rice terraces. You can hike through the interesting Hmong villages and shop at local, weekly markets.
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There are so many backpackers in Vietnam! We had no trouble meeting other travelers and it was such an amazing experience.