Vietnam Travel

Got Questions about Travelling in Vietnam?

Great, cause we’ve got the answers! We’ve put together some commonly asked questions (FAQ) below to give you more information about “Vietnam Travel” and the cover we offer. If you don’t find the question and answer you’re looking for here, please don’t hesitate to contact us!

Vietnam is one of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful countries, attracting travellers to its lush mountains, bustling cities and golden sand beaches. Despite rapid modernization in Vietnam’s urban centers of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, time-honored traditions remain intact amongst the locals. There are numerous ancient landmarks and colonial structures that have survived throughout the bumps and scrapes of history.

Buddhist shrines can be found next to towering skyscrapers, where you can experience vibrant festivals and ceremonies dating back hundreds of years. Long, sandy beaches are home to luxurious resorts and fine-dining venues, making them ideal romantic getaways, while expansive rice terraces on the hills make for excellent hiking excursions. Whether you’re planning a historical tour of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, a relaxing beach break or simply want to escape the bustling city life, our Vietnam travel guide caters to just about any holiday preference.

Vietnam at a glance

Geography and environment

Occupying a long, thin part of the Indochinese peninsula, Vietnam shares borders with China, Laos and Cambodia. Much of Vietnam’s terrain is mountainous, particularly the north and central highland regions. Although people still choose to live in the densely forested highland regions, most of Vietnam’s population is concentrated in the cities of the low lying areas, where infrastructure is more easily built and the land is fertile. One of the 12 great rivers of the world, the Mekong, runs through Vietnam and has been responsible for wide-scale flooding. A system of canals and levees has been quite successful in redistributing the water during monsoons, and has helped to alleviate flooding in the Mekong Delta and surrounding areas.

Top 10 Iconic Landscapes of Vietnam

1. Halong Bay – There’s nothing quite like Halong Bay first thing in the morning. As the mists clear, hundreds of huge karst towers appear, looming high above the boat. In the soft morning light it’s like waking up in a watercolor painting of a mythical land.
2. Hanoi – Motorbikes piled high with people, produce and even animals zip through the streets. It’s crazy, haphazard and somehow it works. The best way to take it all in is from a rooftop cafe. Order an extra strong coffee and watch the chaos unfold below.
3. Mekong Delta – This massive area of floating markets, emerald rice paddies and lush islands is home to some of the friendliest people on earth. Take a boat trip to one of the sleepy islands to get a front row view of life on the Delta, and meet the people who call it home.
4. Sapa – Head to the hills and see the colorful villages of Vietnam’s minority groups – the Zay, and the Blue and Black H’mong. The area is remote so the best way to experience it is on an overnight trek, spending the night as a guest of a local family.
5. Quy Nhon – Quaint Qui Nhon is a sleepy beach town off the main tourist trail. It’s worth coming here just for the drive. The road hugs granite cliffs that plunge into the South China Sea, and islands, lagoons and sand dunes slowly give way to sugar plantations and rice fields.
6. Hue – Jam-packed with imperial sites, Hue is one for the history buffs. Explore the Citadel with its ruined Forbidden Purple City before embracing your inner emperor and taking a dragon boat cruise down the Perfume River.
7. Hoi An – This shoppers’ paradise is home to more boot makers, tailors and handicraft than you could visit in a lifetime. While you wait for your suit to be made, hire a bicycle and explore the Old Town – the streets are blissfully car free.
8. Ho Chi Minh City – Still known as Saigon to most, HCMC is a city on the go. It’s fast-paced, exciting and full of amazing sites. Temples and markets collide with churches and skyscrapers for a heady mix of traditional, colonial and modern.
9. Mai Chau & Pu Luong – The destination feels a million miles away from the bustle of Hanoi. Misty mountains and emerald rice paddies contribute to the air of peacefulness. Be sure to look out for the traditional fabrics woven by the White Thais that call this area home.
10. Dalat – It’s spring all year round in Vietnam’s ‘honeymoon capital’. Soak up the French-inspired atmosphere, spot the quirky local artists and explore the surrounding lakes, waterfalls and forests. C’est fantastique!

Health and Safety

Friends Travel Vietnam takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously, and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organization for the latest information before departure.

History and government

Early History

The land now known as Vietnam has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Archaeological finds suggest that structured societies were in existence from as early as the 1st millennium BC. Early society was mostly feudal and agriculture-based, with various dynasties overseeing different parts of Vietnam until the Chinese invasion of 111 BC, which saw the societies of Vietnam and China become intertwined. Various Chinese dynasties dominated the area for hundreds of years, although revolts finally led to Vietnam gaining self-autonomy in 905. By 938, this period of Chinese imperial domination came to a close and Vietnam entered into an age of independence.

Recent History

During the 19th century, Vietnam came under the influence of French colonizers, who assumed control of Vietnam after the Sino-French War of 1884 and 1885. French Indochina was formed in 1887, and included parts of Vietnam, Cambodia and, later on, Laos. Although the French managed to suppress internal movements towards independence for many years, their control was finally relinquished in 1954 when Vietnamese forces overcame the French during the first Indochina War. Following this war, Vietnam was divided, with separate forces ruling the north (led by Ho Chi Minh) and the south (led by Ngo Dinh Diem, with support from the United States).

The second Indochina War created wide-scale devastation and turmoil for the people of Vietnam, leading to mass migration to other parts of the world as asylum seekers tried to escape the conflict that ravaged their homeland. By the 1980s Vietnam’s economy had all but collapsed, leading to further waves of migration out of Vietnam. More recently, Vietnam has benefited from the free market economy that was set up in 1986. Vietnam’s economy continues to expand, with agriculture and industry providing the backbone, and the tourism sector also contributing. Although many Vietnamese people live below the poverty line, there have been widespread improvements in literacy and health which hopefully will continue to improve in the years to come.

Shopping

Vietnam has a nice mix of interesting markets and small shops, with handicrafts, art and clothing among the best picks.

It’s a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

Things to buy in Vietnam

1. Tailored Clothing

Hoi An is one of the best places in the world to get tailor-made clothing at a great price. Find a tailor, choose your fabric, get measured and return later to collect your custom-made fashion.

2. Hilltribe Handicrafts

Some of Vietnam’s hilltribe people make excellent woven bags, clothing and jewellery which make meaningful souvenirs for friends back home.

3. Coffee

As one of the world’s largest coffee exporters, Vietnamese coffee is among the world’s best. If you’re a coffee fan, why not take a little taste of Vietnam home with you.

4. Lacquerware

The time consuming, intensive process of creating Vietnamese lacquer art results in a beautiful, smooth and polished finish that adorns everything from bowls to paintings and jewellery boxes. While not the cheapest of souvenirs, authentic lacquer art is worth spending a bit more on.

Culture and customs

Vietnam’s ancient culture can be traced back centuries and over the years has been influenced in different ways by the Chinese, Khmer, French and American cultures. For most Vietnamese people, connection to family and community is paramount – whether they are from rural villages or living in the fast-paced cities. Most festivals and holidays are spent with the extended family – participating in rituals, feasting on special foods, giving symbolic gifts and paying respects to ancestors. Most Vietnamese people practice a form of religion that is an interesting mix of Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism, although there are also a large number of practicing Catholics living in Vietnam. Having endured the hardship that the Vietnam War brought in the 1960s and 1970s, most Vietnamese people are keen to get on with life, living with a sense of optimism and humility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

General

1. What’s the minimum age for children on a trip?

Most of our trips have a minimum age of either 5 or 10 years old, depending on the physical demands of the itinerary. Check the Essential Trip Information for the minimum age required for each trip.

Trips with a minimum age of 5 are suitable for all ages, and we can even tell you in advance the age of kids already booked on that departure. Most of our travellers are between the ages of 8 and 18 years old.

2. What ages are your holidays best for?

The average age of the children on our trips is 8 years old. Our trip itineraries contain a lot of detail of what each day involves so we suggest parents read over the materials to ensure it suits their child – particularly looking at travel times.

3. What’s included and what extras should we expect?

Inclusions and extras vary from trip to trip but at a minimum all accommodation and transport will be included and some meals. Check the Essential Trip Information for more details about what is and is not included.

While some activities are included on all our trips, you will also have the opportunity to participate in optional activities for an additional fee. Read the Trip Notes and Essential Trip Information for more details about what activities will be included and which will be optional.

Some of our trips might also recommend contributing towards a group kitty, which is a pool of funds your leader will use to pay on behalf of the group. This might include paying tips to local operators or buying groceries to prepare a group meal.

4. Will my children need a passport or visa to travel?

Yes, all passengers will require a valid passport to travel and participate on our trips (unless you have booked a tour taking place within your home country). You may also require a visa depending on your nationality and chosen travel destination.

We recommend making sure you have more than six months remaining on your passport before travelling overseas. Contact your local embassy for more information about obtaining a passport for you and your children, and whether you will need a visa to travel to your chosen destination.

5. Do you require a letter of consent for children to travel with grandparents?

If children are joining you on a trip without their parents, you should obtain a letter of consent to travel before you leave home. This letter proves the children have permission to travel with you without their parents. Preparing this letter is easy – it can even be handwritten – provided it includes relevant information such as confirmation that you are permitted to travel with the child, the child’s date of birth, and their travel plans. The letter should be signed by both parents and witnessed by a notary public, Justice of the Peace, or similar public officer. While you may never be required to show this letter, it is important to have one just in case.

6. Where can I get more information about a specific trip?

You can learn more about each of our itineraries by reading the Essential Trip Information, which includes details on activities, accommodation, travel times, modes of transport and more. It’s everything you need in one handy spot.

You can find the Essential Trip Information on each trip page.

7. Is every trip guaranteed to run?

We run every trip, even if there’s just one family on it, so you can book with peace of mind.

If your family is the only one booked on a trip, we will send you a courtesy email to let you know ahead of time.

Travelling companions

1. Is it only parents and children that are allowed on Family trips?

Our family trips are just that – for the whole family. That means you don’t have to leave aunties, uncles and grandparents at home. As long as there is at least one child under the age of 18 travelling with you, you’re a family group.

If your children are over the age of 18, our regular Prime Travel Vietnam tours are still a great way to enjoy the small group travel experience.

2. Can I find out who else has booked?

Unfortunately, due to strict privacy laws we are unable to disclose any other family’s details. We can, however, disclose some basic details such as the ages of the other children booked on the same trip.

Food

1. 1. My child is a fussy eater. Will there be special meals for kids?

Grassroots travel means that we try to do everything the local way, and that means eating at local restaurants. The food is always freshly made and delicious, and there is generally a great variety on offer.

There are not always specific kids’ menus available, so if you feel your children might be hesitant to try the food, why not cook some of the local dishes at home before you go so they are familiar with what to expect (and maybe bring with you some more familiar snacks that you know they like).

3. What if my child has a food allergy?

We try to accommodate all food requirements, so make sure you advise us at the time of booking. Although we endeavour to have alternative options available, it may be difficult in some restaurants to determine if foods are 100% allergen-free. We advise that you take the same precautions as you would when eating out at a restaurant in your home country, and maybe pack snacks that you know are safe as a precaution.

4. Is there always a vegetarian option?

There is usually a vegetarian option available, and most picnic and buffet-style meals will have lots of salads, rice dishes and breads. Unlike some big vegetarian destinations, like India, some countries do not traditionally offer a wide range of vegetarian options. Please talk to our travel experts if in doubt.

Accommodation

1. What standard can I expect the accommodation to be?

The accommodation we choose is clean and simple. You’ll mainly stay in small, locally run, 2-3 star hotels and guesthouses that reflect the character of the area. Generally these will be a twin room with private facilities. Sometimes you’ll stay in larger, more comfortable hotels or occasionally rustic accommodation with basic facilities. We use a variety of accommodation on our trips, which are chosen for their value for money, location and atmosphere. Where possible we also incorporate unique accommodation experiences, such as a night with a local tribe or sleeping under the stars in the desert.

2. What standard can I expect the accommodation to be?

The accommodation we choose is clean and simple. You’ll mainly stay in small, locally run, 2-3 star hotels and guesthouses that reflect the character of the area. Generally these will be a twin room with private facilities. Sometimes you’ll stay in larger, more comfortable hotels or occasionally rustic accommodation with basic facilities. We use a variety of accommodation on our trips, which are chosen for their value for money, location and atmosphere. Where possible we also incorporate unique accommodation experiences, such as a night with a local tribe or house on stilt.

3. Will my family sleep in the same room?

Families of two will always get a twin room to themselves. For groups of three we will try our best to find a triple room. Please be aware that in some places triple rooms are in short supply. This means, in practice, a triple room will often simply be a twin room with a mattress on the floor or a fold-up bed. Where it’s impossible to provide a triple room, you can decide which of your party takes a separate single room. For families of four or more, we will most likely find two twin rooms. Where possible, we’ll aim to put you in a quadruple room.

While we will do our very best to ensure that families are roomed close together (in some cases, we can arrange adjoining rooms), we can’t guarantee this. Most family holidays occur during peak season and we sometimes have little or no control over where your rooms will be as these are allocated by the hotel operator.

4. How will you allocate rooms?

We will allocate your rooms before you arrive. If you are a family that requires more than one room we will always try to ensure that your rooms are next to each other and on the same floor of the hotel.

5. Can I request a specific room type?

We use the same standard of room type in all our accommodation as we have an allocation at the hotels we use. Unfortunately, families cannot request a specific room type.

6. Will there be a swimming pool?

Swimming is always a big draw for kids, so we try to use hotels with pools where possible. Depending on how far off the beaten track the itinerary wanders, there may not be hotels with pools nearby, but we’ll try to find you a freshwater lake or secluded beach where you can cool off.

7. Does the hotel have TV/Wi-Fi/a restaurant?

The amenities for each hotel we use are listed in the Essential Trip Information included with each trip.

Activities

1. Do families spend all their time together?

No, all of our tours are planned with a mix of organized group activities and free time so you can enjoy some downtime and kids can explore together on their own.

2. How much independence do the children have?

While children will be supervised during all included activities, children should be supervised by their parents at all times. The level of independence children enjoy during free time is entirely up to the parent’s discretion.

3. How active are your holidays?

The level of activity is listed on each trip itinerary. All our trips involve some degree of walking, which can range from one hour to four hours. All our teenage trips involve more active activities to suit their age range.

Please note some sightseeing will involve walking around historic sites with uneven walkways, stairs and long distances. While other sightseeing may be done using bikes.

4. Can children (or adults) opt out of the activities?

Activities are definitely optional, and it may be possible to just watch, stay at the hotel or do some independent exploring. Either way, parents are responsible for their child at all times, so you will need to supervise if a child wants to opt out.

5. Do we need specialist footwear for our children?

We often cover a lot of ground, especially on our family treks where terrain can be challenging and steep. When rain is a possibility, you will need waterproof footwear with a good grip. For any trips that aren’t specifically trekking, then a comfortable, sturdy pair of shoes such as trainers or sneakers will be suitable.

6. Do the itineraries cater specifically for children?

Our family experts, many of whom are parents, have specifically crafted the itineraries to make sure they run at a family-friendly pace and keep travelling time to a minimum. Plenty of free time is included for families to participate in activities that suit their interests, and group activities are designed to work around meal times.

7. Are there activities aimed at adults?

Our activities are aimed at all ages, and we encourage every member of the family to get involved.

Group leaders

1. Are your leaders trained to work with families?

Yes – our leaders are all experienced in working with children. They are friendly, organised and have a great rapport with the kids. They undergo extra rigorous training to make sure they can work well with the dynamic of the younger group members.

2. Do your leaders provide childcare?

Although we employ special leaders that have relevant experience in looking after children, they are not employed to provide childcare. Leaders are present to handle all logistics and make sure that your trip runs smoothly, but parents must be responsible for children at all times.

Health and safety

1. How safe are these trips for families?

Health and safety is our number one concern on all Prime Travel Vietnam trips. Our leaders are well trained in all aspects of health and safety, provide debriefs prior to all activities, and ensure all families are aware of any safety issues while in country, such as how to cross the road in Vietnam! You will have a local leader travelling with you at all times who can provide in country guidance and answer any questions you have about safety.

2. Do I need to arrange travel insurance?

Yes, all families must have comprehensive travel insurance to cover them in the event of illness or medical emergency, preferably a policy that includes repatriation. You’ll need to provide details of insurance to your leader on Day One of the trip.

It is best to arrange travel insurance before you depart your country of origin. If you’d like assistance with arranging insurance cover, please get in touch with a member of our team.

3. Are Western-like medical facilities available during the trip?

In most countries we visit there are private, Western-style hospitals or medical centres. If you have any medical issues, your leader can contact our local operational office for advice and assistance.

If you are unwell, it is also recommended you make contact with your travel insurance provider. Your insurance provider will offer assistance, advice on policy coverage and usually have a recommended medical centre or hospital that has English-speaking medical staff.

4. Should I bring a first aid kit?

While not required, it’s always good to be prepared for any little bumps or bruises along the way. Without going overboard, we recommend bringing a supply of Band-Aids and disinfectant, some paracetamol, motion sickness tablets (if necessary), hydrolytes (or something similar) and any personal medical items that might be needed throughout the duration of the trip.

5. What about prescription medicine?

If a family member is travelling with prescription medicine, it is recommended that they travel with extra in the case of loss or if the medication is spoilt or damaged.

We also recommend carrying a doctor’s letter of prescription with you and advising the leader on Day One of the trip of any medical conditions. If you’re travelling with any medicine that needs to be refrigerated, you must let our sales team know at the time of booking.

6. Do we need vaccinations to travel?

Please contact your local doctor or specialist traveller’s vaccination centre at least 60 days prior to departure. They can give you all the information about what specific vaccinations should be taken prior to your trip.

7. How safe is the transport?

We regularly inspect all of our vehicles to ensure that they adhere to strict safety requirements. All Prime Travel Vietnam vehicles are fitted with seatbelts.

8. How safe are the activities?

When it comes to participating in organised activities, we use and regularly audit trusted local operators who are well aware of the necessary safety equipment and procedures, including supplying correctly fitting life-jackets and helmets.

9. Can we drink the water?

Your group leader will be able to offer advice on a case-by-case basis. If you are advised not to drink groundwater, we recommend that you pack water purification tablets rather than buying bottled water (it’s better for the environment).

10. What are the toilet facilities like?

All of the hotels we use will have Western-style flushing toilets. In some rural areas, please be advised that toilet facilities may be of a more rudimentary standard than your family enjoys at home. In these circumstances we recommend carrying hand sanitation products. Remember – it’s all part of the experience!

Family Cycling trips

1. Are the bikes included in the trip price or can I bring my own?

To take the hassle out of preparing for your trip, we’ve included bike hire on all our dedicated Family Cycling tours. Alternatively, if you or the kids are really attached to your bike from home, you may be able to bring it along. If you’re bringing your own bike, make sure you let us know when booking so we can make sure your bike is appropriate for that particular tour. As always, check your Trip Notes for more information.

2. Included bikes

The bikes we use are from proven brands, very well maintained, typically less than three years old (most are newer) and specifically chosen to suit the terrain you’ll be cycling on the trip. They come in the full range of sizes from extra small (perfect for smaller children) to extra large and usually have front suspension, flat bars, and 27 gears. The only thing you need to do is advise us of your height at the time of booking. We’ll handle the rest. If you’d like, you can always take your own saddle (seat) or gel over-cover for comfort sake, and if you want to use cleats, bring your pedals and shoes too.

3. Bringing your own bike

If you want to take your bike on a holiday, you can usually bring it along for the ride. You’ll need to box it up for transport on the plane: the easiest way to do this is to go to your local bike shop and ask if they will do it for you (a fee may apply). They often have boxes on hand from old stock and have the tools to remove the pedals and secure your handlebars. Airline fees will also apply, so check with your airline about costs. It’s worth remembering not all trips will be able to accommodate your own bike, so let us know what you’re planning at the time of booking.

4. What do I have to carry while we ride?

On all of our Family Cycling tours your accommodation is pre-booked and your luggage is transferred from one point to the next. All you have to carry is water, and any snacks or gadgets you may want and a few layers to keep you dry and warm. A small, lightweight backpack may come in handy. A support vehicle is usually close too, so if you need to access any larger or heavier items throughout the day, you can keep them there.

5. Do I need to bring anything special?

Helmets are compulsory on our cycling tours, so you can either bring your own from home or we can advise you on where to buy one locally in the destination. We also recommend you bring your own water bottle/hydration pack, and closed shoes. Many travellers who do not ride regularly find a gel seat cover helpful in making the ride more comfortable.

6. How fit do I need to be?

All you need to enjoy our Family Cycling trips is the ability to ride a bicycle and a passion for seeing a destination on two wheels. That’s about it. While there are occasionally longer days on some itineraries, the vast majority of our cycling days are between 25-35kms/15-21miles and are done at a leisurely pace with plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the scenery/just take a break. Anyone with a reasonable level of fitness will get by with no troubles. Our Family Cycling trips are done predominantly on sealed roads (with the odd unsealed section), but none of the trips require any specialist cycling skills.