Common Vietnam Travel FAQs

The People's Committee Building in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, at sunset.
If you’re just beginning to plan your trip to Vietnam, this page will hopefully save you hours of research. Below you’ll find information about visas, SIM cards, ATMs, ...
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Is Vietnam Safe for Tourists? A Local’s Tips for 2026

Walking on the street in Hoi An, Vietnam, behind a motorbike and ladies on bicycles in conical hats.
I moved to Vietnam from the USA in 2018. As someone who’s lived in Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang, I can shed some light on the ...
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Vietnam Visa Requirements: Who Needs One & How to Apply

Daytime at the People's Committee Building in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
Do I need a visa for Vietnam? How do I apply for one? How much does a Vietnam visa cost? Can I enter Vietnam visa-free? How do I ...
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5 Best Districts to Live in Ho Chi Minh City (By an Expat)

Inside Japan Town in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
I moved to Vietnam from the USA in 2018. I first lived in Da Nang, then in Ho Chi Minh City. I’ve lived in five different districts in ...
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Where to Stay in Hoi An: A Local’s Guide for First-Timers

The Cam Thanh Rice Fields in Hoi An, Vietnam, at sunset.
I live in Da Nang, which is about 40 minutes away from Hoi An. Like today, I frequently ride my scooter from Da Nang to Hoi An for ...
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Da Nang or Hoi An: Which is Better to Stay?

Tourists and pink flowers at the intersection of Tran Phu Street and Le Loi Street in Hoi An Old Town
I moved to Da Nang from the USA in 2018. I visit Hoi An regularly on my motorbike for coffee, to eat, or to explore.  I was talking ...
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8 Best Beaches in Da Nang: A Local’s Guide & Map

A cobblestone walking path leading to the beach in Da Nang, Vietnam.
As a daily motorbike rider, I have explored Da Nang extensively and frequently travel to Hoi An, making me well-versed in the best beaches in both cities. For ...
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17 Ho Chi Minh City Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

The People's Committee Building lit up at night, with the Vincom mall in the background, and locals and tourists on motorbikes in downtown District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
Ho Chi Minh City can be overwhelming to navigate for first-time visitors. The city’s infrastructure isn’t fully developed, and the overall travel experience isn’t as streamlined as nearby ...
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Ho Chi Minh City vs. Bangkok: Best Destination for Travelers

Landmark 81 skyscraper in Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City, the tallest building in Vietnam and second tallest in Southeast Asia.
I moved to Da Nang in 2018 and then lived in Ho Chi Minh City. I’ve lived in four different districts in HCMC: District 8, District 7, District ...
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24 Great Places to Eat in Da Nang

The "Big Breakfast" at Lighthouse in Da Nang, Vietnam, with toast, hash browns, sausage, bacon, eggs, tomatoes and a coffee.
Riding a scooter has allowed me to visit restaurants all over Da Nang. Besides good food, there are other things I look for in a restaurant to become ...
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