Location
Vietnam is located in South East Asia, and borders Cambodia, Laos and China.
Shopping
Vietnam is not yet a shopping paradise like Hong Kong or Bangkok, but there still a huge variety of souvenirs and traditional handicrafts. The most popular items are the remains from the Vietnam War - Army watches, clothing, compasses and all kinds of military equipment left behind by the US Army over 20 years ago. The best place for shopping for antiques or replicas is in Hanoi. Saigon has the best buys for modern goods like CDs and clothing.
Geography
Vietnam stretches over 1600km (1000mi) along the eastern coast of the Indochinese Peninsula. The country’s two main cultivated areas are the Red River Delta (15,000 sq km/5400 sq mi) in the north and the Mekong Delta (60,000 sq km/23,400 sq mi) in the south. Three-quarters of the country is mountainous and hilly; the highest peak, at 3143m (10,310ft), is Fansipan in the northwest.
History
Vietnamese history roughly dates to 2700 years ago. For most of the period from 111 BC to early 10th century, it was under the direct rule of successive dynasties from China. Vietnam regained autonomy in the early 10th century, and complete independence in 939 AD.
Climate
The weather varies considerably throughout Vietnam, however temperatures are usually around the low 30°Cs (high 80°Fs), and it can be hot and humid.
Language
Vietnamese is the official language of the country, although there are dialectic differences across Vietnam. There are dozens of different languages spoken by various ethnic minorities and Khmer and Lao are spoken in some parts. The most widely spoken foreign languages in Vietnam are Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), English, French and Russian.
Currency
Dong (D).
Electricity
220/110 volts AC, 50Hz; two-pin flat plugs are in use.
Banks
There is now a reasonably extensive network of ATMs in major cities.
Driving
The road network throughout Vietnam is reasonable but the standard of the roads varies dramatically from good to appalling. In theory, traffic drives on the right but in practice drivers take the most direct path avoiding the many thousands of bicycles, motorbikes and animals wandering along the road.
Time difference
GMT +7 hours.
Tipping
Government-run hotels and tourist restaurants usually add a 5% service charge to bills so there’s no need to tip (although staff may not get any of it). Leaving a small tip will be greatly appreciated by the staff. You should consider tipping hired drivers and guides, and it’s polite to leave a small donation at the end of a visit to a pagoda.
Water
Tap water is not recommended for drinking. We recommend you buy bottled water.
Visas
UK passport holders are eligible to purchase a visa valid for one month from proposed date of entry, for a cost of £38 (single entry). A valid passport with six month’s remaining validity is required.
What makes it so special?
The stunning scenery; a patchwork of brilliant green rice paddies tended by women in conical hats, soaring mountains and some spectacular beaches. A nation rich in culture, tradition and history. Friendly and welcoming people. Put all these together and you get a true sense of what Vietnam has to offer - a country of traditional charm and rare beauty rapidly opening up to the outside world.
Where to visit
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) - a vibrant, bustling city, with superb shopping, restaurants and nightlife, and fascinating reminders of the ’American War’ such as the incredible Cu Chi tunnels.
Visa requirements
A tourist visa, which lasts for up to one month, must be obtained prior to arrival at a cost of €45 per person to arrange the documentation and a $45 charge locally. UK passports must be valid for at least six months after intended departure date from Vietnam. You must also have a return or onward ticket. All travellers should check full entry requirements prior to travel by visiting the FCO website or by contacting the relevant embassy.
.jpg)
.jpg)
