Asia Bespoke Journeys - 8 Jan 2026: Vietnam often arrives quietly, then stays with you long after you leave. Mornings begin with the hum of scooters and the scent of coffee drifting through narrow streets, and just hours later the world softens into rice fields, rivers, or open sea. If this is your first time here, or if you have only brushed past Vietnam before, it may feel unfamiliar at first. Not difficult, just layered. And that is exactly why approaching it with care makes all the difference. This Vietnam Travel Guide 2026 is written as a gentle conversation, allowing us to walk beside you as you begin to imagine your journey. We will guide you in choosing those places that feel right for you, moving around Vietnam in comfort and confidence so your journey can naturally take shape, driven by intention, ease, and your own pace.
 

Your List of Good-to-know Before Traveling to Vietnam

 

Vietnam at a Glance: Geography, Character, and What Makes It Unique

Vietnam stretches gracefully along the eastern edge of mainland Southeast Asia, framed by rugged mountains to the west and the shimmering South China Sea to the east. Its long, slender shape spans nearly 1,000 miles from north to south - creating a country of striking geographic and cultural contrasts.
In the north, mist-covered highlands and age-old cities evoke memory and tradition. Hanoi hums with history, while landscapes around Sapa and Ha Giang reveal a quieter, more elemental side of the country. Central Vietnam invites a slower rhythm, where ancient imperial capitals, coastal towns like Hoi An, and stretches of unspoiled beach unfold beneath a softer sun. To the south, life flows around rivers and rice fields - the energy of Ho Chi Minh City balanced by the calm pulse of the Mekong Delta.
What makes Vietnam truly unique is the way the atmosphere shifts as you move. In a single journey, you might sip coffee in a colonial café, wind through mountain roads, drift along a river at sunset, and walk barefoot on a quiet shore. The diversity of experience is seamless yet profound.
While famous destinations - Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hue, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, and the Mekong Delta - draw travelers from around the world, Vietnam’s true charm often lives between the headlines. In quiet corners, morning markets, roadside tea stalls, and the everyday rhythm of local life, there’s a sense of authenticity that’s easy to feel and hard to forget.
 

Entry Requirements and Arrival (Updated 2026)

Before your journey to Vietnam truly begins, taking care of the entry requirements ahead of time can make everything that follows feel smoother and more relaxed. For most travelers, a visa is required - but the good news is that Vietnam now offers a simple e-visa process for many nationalities. You can apply directly through the official government portal here.
Vietnam e-visa application is straightforward, but be sure to have a valid passport (with at least six months before expiration), a passport-style photo, and a scanned image of your passport’s information page ready. For clear, step-by-step guidance, you can refer to the official instructions here. E-visa process service and fee are included in Asia Bespoke Journeys’s Vietnam travel package, for your utmost convenience. 
In addition to the e-visa, Vietnam offers 45-day visa-free entry to citizens of select countries - including several in Europe, along with Japan, South Korea, and others. The official list of visa-exempt nationalities is updated regularly and can be viewed here.
When you land, expect Vietnam’s international airports to be efficient but often bustling with activity. After a long flight, navigating immigration lines, announcements, and unfamiliar terminals can feel overwhelming. That’s why we offer a fast-track arrival service - designed to make your entry into Vietnam as calm and effortless as possible. With our team meeting you upon landing, you'll be guided through immigration in as little as 15 minutes, skipping the long lines and stepping into your Vietnam travel experience feeling relaxed and unhurried - from the very first moment.

Language and Cultural Norms

Vietnamese is the language you will hear all around you; it speaks softly and swiftly. English is frequently used in hotels, airports, and well-known locations. It gets quieter beyond these two languages. This is where traveling with us makes all the difference.
On our Vietnam private tour, our local guides help bridge the language gap with ease and empathy. You can request a guide who speaks your preferred language, but beyond translation, they’re there to communicate gently, clearly, and intuitively - ensuring you always feel informed and comfortable.
Our guides take care of conversations, explain local customs in the moment, and guide you through experiences in a way that feels natural and stress-free. With their support, you can focus on enjoying the journey - not decoding signs or worrying about making a cultural misstep.
Gentleness is highly valued in Vietnamese culture. We value your patience. Small gestures like a smile, a calm tone, and modest attire in places of worship open doors. Vietnam tends to greet you warmly if you move slowly and with respect.
 

Currency, Payments, and Costs (Updated 2026)

Money in Vietnam moves mostly in cash. Vietnamese Dong is used for daily life, while cards are accepted in higher-end hotels and restaurants. ATMs are easy to find in the cities. Once you drift into the countryside, your chances of finding an ATM or paying by card may decrease.
You’ll find currency exchange services at airports, banks, licensed counters, and some hotels. For peace of mind, banks and official exchange offices tend to offer the most reliable rates and security. It's also worth noting that Vietnamese vendors often won’t accept damaged or marked foreign bills - so it’s best to exchange crisp, clean notes whenever possible. For a detailed breakdown of exchange options, you can refer to this helpful guide.
Throughout your journey, our local guides are here to assist with all the practical details - from recommending trusted places to exchange currency to helping you understand local pricing and everyday costs. Whether you're navigating a busy market or settling a bill at a café, you’ll have quiet, confident support at every step.
Vietnam offers great value, but quality can be hit or miss. For many first-time visitors, having arrangements during your Vietnam Travel brings a sense of security, allowing you to focus on the experience rather than the details.


 

Transportation and Getting Around Vietnam

Getting around Vietnam is relatively easy, but how you choose to travel makes a meaningful difference in how your journey feels. With everything from domestic flights and scenic train rides to private cars, boats, and even motorbikes, Vietnam offers a wide spectrum of transportation options. Each suits a different pace, purpose, and personality - and part of traveling well here is matching the mode of transport to the kind of experience you want.
When you travel with us, transportation is never a default or one-size-fits-all decision. We take time to understand your comfort level, schedule, and travel style - then recommend what works best for each leg of the journey.
For longer distances, domestic flights are often the most efficient choice, helping you conserve energy and maximize time in each destination, especially if your preference is Vietnam leisure tour. But when the route is scenic or rich in cultural detail, we may suggest private car transfers, allowing you to stop along the way, take in the views, and enjoy the journey just as much as the destination.
If you’re drawn to a more nostalgic, Vietnam slow travel experience, Vietnam’s historic train routes - such as the Reunification Express - offer a different kind of rhythm. As the landscape rolls by, you settle into the movement of the train, and the journey becomes part of the story.
For those seeking something more immersive, we can incorporate meaningful local experiences: riding pillion on a motorbike through backstreets with an experienced driver, cruising through the Mekong Delta by boat, or cycling along quiet countryside roads. These aren’t just ways to get from one place to another - they’re moments that add color, texture, and memory to your trip.
By planning transportation thoughtfully, we ensure that moving through Vietnam feels smooth, safe, and enriching - not rushed or exhausting. Every connection becomes part of the experience, aligned with your pace, your interests, and your comfort.
 

Healthcare, Emergencies, and Personal Well-Being

Vietnam is widely considered a safe destination for travelers, and major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang offer access to international-standard hospitals and private clinics. Still, taking time to prepare before your trip adds a valuable sense of reassurance and peace of mind.
As of 2026, travelers are encouraged to stay current with routine vaccinations and consult destination-specific health recommendations. The most reliable and up-to-date health information for Vietnam can be found through the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Travel Health Information for Vietnam.
We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical care, emergency evacuation, and unexpected trip changes. Well-regarded providers frequently chosen by travelers to Vietnam include:
World Nomads: https://www.worldnomads.com
Allianz Travel Insurance: https://www.allianztravelinsurance.com
AXA Travel Insurance: https://www.axatravelinsurance.com
Before your departure, our team is happy to assist you in reviewing options and ensuring your insurance plan aligns with your itinerary, comfort level, and travel style.
Should a medical issue arise during your trip, our local guides provide immediate on-the-ground support - helping you get to trusted clinics or hospitals, assisting with language and logistics, and ensuring you feel taken care of every step of the way.
With thoughtful preparation and the right support behind you, you can explore Vietnam with confidence - focused on the experience, not the “what ifs.”
 

Connectivity and Practical Technology

Staying connected in Vietnam is easy and reliable, especially in cities and well-traveled areas. Wi-Fi is widely available at hotels, cafés, and restaurants, and the quality is generally strong enough for video calls, navigation, and daily use.
For even more convenience, we recommend using a local SIM card or eSIM during your stay. They’re affordable, easy to set up, and provide dependable mobile data - even in many rural regions. Whether you’re using maps to find your next stop, keeping in touch with family, or translating a menu, having local data makes everyday travel feel smoother.
Power outlets in Vietnam typically use types A, C, and D, with a standard voltage of 220V. Most modern electronics and chargers work just fine, but carrying a universal adapter is always a smart idea - especially if you have multiple devices or international plugs.
If you need help getting set up, our team is ready to assist. From choosing the right SIM to finding the best place to recharge your devices, we’ll make sure you stay connected, powered, and ready to go - without any technical stress along the way.
 

Safety and Day-to-day Comfort

Vietnam is generally a safe destination, and you will likely feel welcomed wherever you go. Perhaps the biggest adjustment for many travelers is the traffic. It looks chaotic at first, but there's a rhythm to it. Using trusted drivers and services removes much of the uncertainty.
Vietnam is an incredibly welcoming country, but like any destination, it’s important to stay aware - especially in busy urban areas. With our team by your side, you can move through each day feeling both informed and supported.

• Be aware in busy urban areas: Cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are vibrant and full of energy, but they can also be crowded - especially in markets or tourist hubs. In these settings, opportunistic crimes like pickpocketing do happen. Staying alert, avoiding tight crowds when possible, and keeping your belongings secure makes a big difference. Our guides are always there to help you navigate these areas calmly and will point out where a little extra awareness is helpful.
• Take extra care with personal belongings: Theft is rarely aggressive, but often involves unattended bags or visible valuables. We suggest keeping jewelry subtle, carrying only what you need for the day, and storing copies of important documents in a separate location. These small habits go a long way in preventing issues. Your guide will offer friendly reminders and help you stay organized, so you can relax and enjoy your time without worry.
• Use trusted transportation only: Unlicensed taxis and informal rides can pose risks. Always opt for metered taxis or set a fare in advance. When you travel with us, all transportation is pre-arranged, licensed, and dependable - so you never need to negotiate or second-guess your route. It’s just one more way we help your journey flow smoothly.
• Stay mindful of traffic conditions: For many visitors, traffic is the biggest surprise. Vietnam’s streets - especially in major cities - are filled with motorbikes, and traffic patterns can feel unpredictable. Crossing the road might seem daunting at first, but don’t worry. Our guides assist you step by step, choosing the safest spots and helping you move at a comfortable pace. With their help, you’ll feel confident, not rushed.
• Know basic emergency preparedness: It’s always wise to carry a charged mobile phone, some form of identification, and to be familiar with local emergency contacts. In Vietnam, dial 113 for police, 114 for fire, and 115 for medical assistance. While emergencies are rare, having support nearby makes all the difference. With our team close at hand, you’ll never feel alone in unfamiliar situations.
• Culinary experience: Food is one of the great pleasures of Vietnam. fresh herbs, slow broths, and balanced flavors. If your body needs time to adjust, then beginning with well-chosen restaurants or hotel dining helps you ease into it comfortably.

 

Vietnam Private Tour and Luxury Tour - A Bespoke Experience Within Reach

To many travelers, Vietnam is where luxury starts to feel human again - not removed and over-the-top, but rather surprisingly attainable. This is especially true for a first or second visit: traveling privately gets you moving through the country smoothly, without the weight of logistics. A Vietnam private tour removes the friction. Transportation is ready when you are, days unfold smoothly, and you are free to simply arrive, observe, and feel what is around you.
A Vietnam luxury tour herein is less about the opulence and more about rhythm: moving without hurry, staying in places that are thoughtful rather than showy, and being looked after by people who know when to speak and when to let silence do its work. At Asia Bespoke Journeys, our Vietnam luxury vacation packages begin with listening. We create balanced and personal journeys that take you to the top things to do in Vietnam, taking care of everything quietly behind the scenes so that you can stay fully present and allow Vietnam to reveal itself to you, gently and in its own time.
 

Final Thoughts

Vietnam is not a place to rush through. It is a place where attention, patience, and care are rewarded. The purpose of this Vietnam Travel Guide 2026 is to make you feel prepared - not just informed - but settled as you start to plan.
At the right pace and with some guidance, Vietnam feels welcoming rather than overwhelming: each region finds its place, each day has room to breathe, and the journey begins to feel like it belongs to you.
If you are seeking a journey shaped with intention, we would be honored to travel with you. At Asia Bespoke Journeys, we craft bespoke Vietnam private tour and Vietnam luxury tour experiences designed around your rhythm, your comfort, and your curiosity. Our Vietnam luxury vacation packages are crafted so that you may focus on the moments that stay with you while we quietly take care of the rest.
When you are ready, reach out to us via email hello@hello@asiabespokejourneys.com or Whatsapp +84 091-593-0725. We are here to help you begin a Vietnam journey that feels thoughtful, fluid, and deeply your own.

Written by Asia Bespoke Journeys' experts.