9 Mistakes That Will Ruin Your Holiday in Vietnam
A package holiday to Vietnam can be an incredible experience, but it requires careful planning to ensure everything goes smoothly. Here are nine common mistakes that can negatively impact your trip and how to avoid them:
1. Passport Issues
Ensure Passport Validity: Before you even think about booking your flight to Vietnam, check your passport’s expiration date. Vietnam, like many countries, requires that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. If your passport doesn’t meet this requirement, you could be denied entry, which would certainly ruin your holiday.
Visa Requirements: It’s also essential to have the correct type of visa. If you’re planning to explore beyond Vietnam and then return, such as visiting Cambodia to see the Angkor temples, you’ll need a multi-entry visa. While you can apply for a new visa during your travels, it’s generally more convenient to have the correct visa from the start.
2. Not Reading Reviews
Hotel and Service Reviews: Before booking a hotel, a Halong Bay cruise, or any service, take the time to read reviews on travel forums and review sites. These first-person accounts can provide a realistic view of what to expect. For example, a hotel website might not mention a nearby train track that could disturb your sleep, or a bungalow’s proximity to paddy fields that might attract mosquitoes. Reading reviews can help you avoid unpleasant surprises.
3. Booking Late
Plan Ahead for Busy Seasons: Vietnam is particularly busy during holidays such as Tet (New Year), National Day, and Reunion Day. If you plan to travel during these peak times, make sure to book your accommodations, tours, and activities well in advance. Last-minute bookings can lead to frustration, higher prices, or even finding no available options. If you do travel without bookings, prepare a list of potential hotels and services to check upon arrival.
4. Overpacking
Pack Smartly: Avoid the temptation to pack too much. Excessive luggage can lead to higher fees at the airport. Typically, international flights to Vietnam allow up to 30 kg, while domestic flights often limit luggage to 20 kg. Pack according to your planned activities and the expected weather. Essentials like medication should be in your carry-on. This not only ensures you have them handy but also covers you in case your checked luggage is delayed or lost. Additionally, packing a spare change of clothes in your carry-on can be a lifesaver.
5. Taking Unregulated Taxis
Use Reliable Transportation: Always check the estimated fare before getting into a taxi. While many taxis in Vietnam are metered, independent taxis might try to overcharge. Ask your hotel staff about typical fares to your destination to avoid being scammed. For added security, book taxis through your hotel.
6. Drinking Tap Water
Avoid Tap Water: The tap water in Vietnam isn’t safe to drink, even in top hotels. Stick to bottled water, which is cheap and widely available. Only consume ice in drinks from reputable restaurants, hotels, or bars to avoid potential health issues.
7. Overambitious Itineraries
Don’t Overextend Your Schedule: Trying to see too many places in a short period can lead to travel fatigue. While it’s tempting to visit all popular destinations in one trip, it’s more enjoyable to spend more time in fewer places. This allows you to fully explore and appreciate each location without feeling rushed. A balanced itinerary that includes longer stays in key cities will make for a more relaxing and memorable holiday.
8. Not Informing Your Bank
Notify Your Bank: Before leaving, inform your bank of your travel plans. Many banks have security systems that flag unusual activity, such as foreign transactions, and could freeze your account. Being locked out of your funds while abroad can cause major issues, so ensure your bank knows where you’ll be and when.
9. Solely Relying on Electronic Devices
Backup Important Information: While it’s convenient to store all your travel details on your phone, don’t rely solely on electronic devices. Print out important information such as hotel reservations, flight details, and contact numbers. This way, if your device fails, is lost, or runs out of battery, you still have access to critical information.
