As of now, Vietnam has a developing metro system with the most significant progress being made in its
two largest cities, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). Here's where you can find and use the metro
in Vietnam:
Hanoi Metro (Line 2A - Cat Linh-Ha Dong Line):
1.This is the first metro line in Hanoi and Vietnam.
2.It runs from Cat Linh to Ha Dong, covering several major districts.
3.Key Stations: Cat Linh, La Thanh, Thai Ha, Lang, Thanh Xuan, Van Quan, and Ha Dong.
4.Operating hours: Typically from early morning (around 5:30 AM) to late evening (around 10:30 PM).
Ho Chi Minh City Metro (Line 1 - Ben Thanh-Suoi Tien Line):
1.This is the first metro line expected to be operational in Ho Chi Minh City.
2.It will run from Ben Thanh Market in District 1 to Suoi Tien in District 9.
3.Key Stations: Ben Thanh, Opera House, Ba Son, Van Thanh, and Suoi Tien.
4.The line is still under construction with expected completion in the near future.
For the latest updates on metro lines, operating hours, ticket prices, and future expansions, you
can check local news sources or official websites related to Hanoi Metro and Ho Chi Minh City Metro.
Yes, you can drink alcohol in Vietnam. Here are some important points to keep in mind:
1. Legal Drinking Age:
The legal drinking age in Vietnam is 18 years old. However, enforcement of this age limit can be
lax, especially in tourist areas.
2. Bars and Clubs: Vietnam has a vibrant nightlife, especially in major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi
Minh City, and Da Nang, where you can find numerous bars, clubs, and pubs.
3. Restaurants and Cafés: Many restaurants and cafés serve a variety of alcoholic beverages,
including local and imported beers, wines, and spirits.
4. Convenience Stores and Supermarkets: Alcohol can be purchased in most convenience stores and
supermarkets.
5. Street Vendors: In some areas, especially tourist hotspots, you may find street vendors selling
beer and other alcoholic drinks.
6.Public Drinking: Drinking alcohol in public places, such as parks and streets, is generally
allowed, but it's best to exercise discretion and be respectful of local customs and laws.
7.Driving Under the Influence: Vietnam has strict laws against drinking and driving. The legal blood
alcohol content (BAC) limit is 0.05% for motorbike riders and 0.00% for car drivers. Penalties for
violating these laws can be severe, including heavy fines and imprisonment.
8.Prohibited Areas: Avoid consuming alcohol in sensitive areas, such as near religious sites,
government buildings, and schools.
9.Drink Responsibly: Always drink in moderation to ensure your safety and well-being.
10. Stay Aware: Be mindful of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in
crowded places.
Stay Aware: Be mindful of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in
crowded places.
In Vietnam, public displays of affection (PDA) are generally frowned upon, especially among the older
generation and in rural areas. Here are some points to consider:
1. Modesty and Discretion: Vietnamese culture values modesty and discretion, and excessive displays
of affection are seen as inappropriate. It's best to keep gestures like kissing, hugging, and
holding hands to a minimum in public places.
2. Urban vs. Rural: In major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, people may be more
accustomed to seeing mild displays of affection, such as hand-holding or a quick kiss on the cheek.
However, in rural areas, these behaviors can still be considered disrespectful.
3.Hand-Holding: Holding hands is generally acceptable, especially for couples, but it's still more
common to see friends of the same gender holding hands as a sign of friendship.
4.Brief Hugs: A brief hug can be acceptable, particularly among close friends or family members.
5.Kissing: Kissing on the lips in public is generally not acceptable and may attract unwanted
attention or disapproval.
6.Be Respectful: Always be mindful of your surroundings and the cultural norms of the area you are
in.
7.Observe Locals: Take cues from how locals interact with each other in public spaces to gauge what
is considered appropriate.
8.Private Spaces: Save more intimate displays of affection for private settings, such as your
accommodation or more secluded areas.
By being aware of and respecting local customs and cultural norms, you can avoid
inadvertently offending others and enjoy a more harmonious experience in Vietnam.
Vietnam's climate varies significantly from north to south due to its elongated shape, resulting in
different weather patterns across the country. Here's a breakdown of when it tends to be cold in
different regions of Vietnam:
Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Halong Bay):
1. Winter Season: From November to February.
2. Temperature Range: Temperatures can drop to 10-15°C (50-59°F) and even lower in the mountainous
areas like Sapa, where it can sometimes dip below 0°C (32°F) and experience frost or occasional
snow.
3. Best Activities: Visiting Halong Bay, exploring the old quarters of Hanoi, and trekking in Sapa.
Central Vietnam (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An):
1. Cool Season: From December to February.
2. Temperature Range: Cooler temperatures ranging from 18-23°C (64-73°F). While not as cold as the
north, it is a noticeable drop from the hotter months.
3. Best Activities: Visiting the ancient town of Hoi An, exploring historical sites in Hue, and
enjoying the beaches in Da Nang.
Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc):
1. Dry and Cooler Season: November to January
2. Temperatures: 22-28°C (72-82°F)
3. Activities: Mekong Delta tours, Phu Quoc beaches, Ho Chi Minh City exploration.
High Altitude Areas (Da Lat, Central Highlands):
1. Climate: Cooler year-round
2.Temperatures: 10-20°C (50-68°F)
Yes, there are several activities and items that are prohibited in Vietnam. Here’s a concise overview
of things that are prohibited:
1. Drugs:
Possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs is strictly prohibited and carries severe
penalties, including the death penalty.
2.Pornography:
Production, distribution, and possession of pornographic materials are illegal.
3. Gambling:
Unauthorized gambling activities are prohibited. Casinos are restricted to foreign visitors with
proper documentation.
4. Political Activities:
Participation in political protests or demonstrations without permission is prohibited.
Distribution of anti-government materials or engaging in political activities that criticize the
government is illegal.
5.Wildlife and Endangered Species:
Trading in wildlife and products made from endangered species is prohibited.
6. Counterfeit Goods:
Production, distribution, and possession of counterfeit goods, including currency, are illegal.
7. Weapons and Explosives:
Possession, distribution, and use of firearms, explosives, and other dangerous weapons without
proper authorization are prohibited.
8. Import and Export Restrictions:
Certain items are restricted or prohibited from import and export, including cultural artifacts,
certain types of literature, and some electronic equipment without proper licenses.
9. Public Behavior:
Public displays of affection are frowned upon.
Disrespecting cultural sites, monuments, and religious places is prohibited.
10. Dress Code:
Modest dress is expected at religious sites and temples.
11.Conduct:
Offensive behavior towards the Vietnamese flag or national symbols is illegal.
12.Smoking:
Smoking is prohibited in certain public areas, including schools, hospitals, and public
transportation.
13.Visa and Immigration:
Overstaying your visa or violating visa terms can result in fines, detention, or deportation.
By adhering to these prohibitions and respecting local laws and customs, you can ensure a safe and
enjoyable stay in Vietnam.
The official language of Vietnam is Vietnamese. It is the language used in government, education, and
the media. Vietnamese, known locally as "Tiếng Việt," is a tonal language and is written using the
Latin alphabet with additional diacritics to indicate tones and certain letters.
In addition to Vietnamese, there are several minority languages spoken by various ethnic groups
within the country, such as Tay, Muong, Cham, Khmer, and others. However, Vietnamese remains the
primary and official language used nationwide.
Booking cabs in Vietnam is quite straightforward, with multiple options available for both locals and
tourists. Here’s how you can book a cab in Vietnam:
1. Ride-Hailing Apps: Grab is The most popular ride-hailing app in Vietnam.
Available for both iOS and Android.
Allows you to book cars, motorbike taxis (GrabBike), and delivery services.Gojek is Another widely
used ride-hailing app offering motorbike taxis (GoRide), cars (GoCar), and food delivery.
Available for both iOS and Android.Be is A Vietnamese ride-hailing app providing car and motorbike
taxi services.
2.Traditional Taxis:Mai Linh Taxi is A reputable taxi company with a nationwide presence.
Can be hailed on the street, booked via phone (+84 28 3838 3838 in Ho Chi Minh City), or through
their app.Vinasun Taxi is Another reliable taxi company operating in major cities.
Can be hailed on the street, booked via phone (+84 28 3827 2727 in Ho Chi Minh City), or through
their app.
3. Hotel Concierge:
Most hotels can arrange a taxi for you upon request. Simply ask the front desk or concierge for
assistance.
4. Restaurants and Tourist Attractions:
Staff at restaurants or tourist spots can often help you call a taxi.
By using these methods, you can easily and safely book a cab in Vietnam.
In Vietnam, there is no strict dress code for everyday activities, but it is important to dress
appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites or attending formal events. Here are some
guidelines for men and women:
Casual Wear:
1. Men: Light and comfortable clothing like t-shirts, shorts, and sandals are common.
2. Women: Light dresses, skirts, shorts, and t-shirts are suitable.
Modest Clothing:
1. Men: Wear long pants and shirts with sleeves. Avoid tank tops and shorts.
3. Head Covering: At some religious sites, women may be required to cover their shoulders or head.
Scarves can be handy for this purpose.
4. Shoes: It is customary to remove shoes before entering certain religious buildings. Wear shoes
that are easy to take off.
Business Attire:
1. Men: Suits or dress shirts with trousers. Ties are usually expected for formal business meetings.
2.Women: Business suits, dresses, or skirts with blouses. Conservative and professional attire is
recommended.
Beachwear:
1. Men: Swim trunks or board shorts.
2.Women: Swimsuits, bikinis, or beachwear. Cover-ups are recommended when not on the beach.
Casual and Smart Casual:
1. Men: Smart casual attire like collared shirts and nice jeans or trousers are usually appropriate.
2.Women: Dresses, skirts, or stylish tops with pants or jeans are common.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can dress appropriately for various situations in Vietnam while
respecting local customs and traditions.
If you find yourself in trouble in Vietnam, here are the steps you should take to ensure your safety
and resolve the situation:
1. For Medical Emergencies: Dial 115 for medical assistance.Go to the nearest hospital or medical
clinic for urgent care. Major cities have international hospitals with English-speaking staff.
2. If You Get Cheated or Robbed: Dial 113 and report the incident. File a report in person. Bring
identification and any relevant evidence.
3. Keep Important Numbers Handy: Save local emergency numbers and your embassy’s contact
information.
4. Stay Aware: Be aware of your surroundings and avoid risky areas, especially at night.
Carry Identification: Always have a copy of your passport and visa.
5. Travel Insurance: Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and theft.
6.Stay Aware: Be aware of your surroundings and avoid risky areas, especially at night.
By following these steps, you can effectively handle emergencies and seek the necessary assistance
while in Vietnam.
If you need immediate medical assistance in Vietnam, follow these steps:
1. Call an Ambulance:
Dial 115 for an ambulance.
Provide clear information about your location and the nature of the emergency.
2.Visit the Nearest Hospital:
If possible, go to the nearest hospital or medical clinic. In major cities, international hospitals
often have English-speaking staff.
3. Recommended Hospitals in Major Cities:
Hanoi Family Medical Practice:
Address: 298 I Kim Ma Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi
Phone: +84 24 3843 0748
Vinmec International Hospital:
Address: 458 Minh Khai Street, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi
Phone: +84 24 3974 3556
FV Hospital:
Address: 6 Nguyen Luong Bang Street, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City
Phone: +84 28 5411 3333
Vinmec Central Park International Hospital:
Address: 208 Nguyen Huu Canh Street, Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City
Phone: +84 28 3622 1166
4. Inform Your Embassy:
Contact your embassy for support. They can provide assistance with translation, contacting family,
and other support services.
5. Indian Embassy in Hanoi:
Phone: +84 24 3824 4989
6. Travel Insurance:
If you have travel insurance, contact your provider as soon as possible to inform them of the
situation and seek advice on coverage and procedures.
7. Keep Important Information Ready:
Have your identification, insurance details, and any relevant medical history ready to provide to
healthcare providers.
By following these steps, you can ensure you receive the necessary medical assistance promptly in
Vietnam.
If you get cheated or robbed in Vietnam, follow these steps to handle the situation effectively:
1. Stay Calm and Safe:
Move to a safe location.
Avoid confrontation with the perpetrator if possible.
2. Contact the Police:
Dial 113 to report the incident to the police.
Provide detailed information about the incident, including the location, time, and description of
the perpetrator.
3. Visit the Nearest Police Station:
File a report in person.
Bring identification (passport) and any relevant evidence (photos, witnesses, etc.).
Request a copy of the police report for your records and insurance claims.
4. Notify Your Bank:
If your credit/debit cards were stolen, contact your bank immediately to block the cards and prevent
unauthorized transactions.
5.Inform Your Insurance Company:
If you have travel insurance, report the incident to your insurance provider and follow their
procedures for filing a claim.
6. Contact Your Embassy or Consulate: If you're a foreign national, consider contacting your
country's embassy or consulate in Vietnam to inform them of the situation and seek assistance. They
can provide consular support, including guidance on legal matters and assistance with replacing lost
or stolen documents.
7. Recovering Lost Items:
If your mobile phone was stolen, use tracking apps (e.g., Find My iPhone or Android Device Manager)
to locate or remotely lock your device.
8. Stay Vigilant:
Be cautious with your belongings and avoid displaying valuable items in public.
Use secure bags and keep your belongings close to your body.
9. Preventive Measures:Avoid isolated areas, especially at night.
Use reputable taxi services and ride-hailing apps.
Be cautious with strangers offering unsolicited help or deals.
By following these steps, you can effectively handle the situation if you get cheated or robbed in
Vietnam and ensure your safety and recovery of lost items.
To connect with the Indian Embassy or Consulate in Vietnam, you can use the following contact
information and methods:
1. Indian Embassy in Hanoi:
2. Indian Consulate in Ho Chi Minh City:
A "Vietnam pass" typically refers to a type of tourist pass or visa that allows travelers to enter
and travel within Vietnam for a specified period. However, there is no specific official term or
document known as a "Vietnam pass" in the context of tourism or visas.
Instead, travelers to Vietnam typically obtain one of the following types of visas or passes:
1.Visa on Arrival (VOA):
Allows travelers to obtain a visa upon arrival at designated international airports in Vietnam.
Requires pre-approval through a visa agency or travel agent before arrival.
Valid for single or multiple entries and varying durations of stay.
2.E-Visa:
An electronic visa obtained online before traveling to Vietnam.
Available for citizens of certain countries for tourism, business, or transit purposes.
Valid for single entry and typically for a stay of up to 30 days.
3.Tourist Visa:
Obtained from a Vietnamese embassy or consulate before traveling to Vietnam.
Allows for single or multiple entries and varies in duration based on the applicant's request.
4.Visa Exemption:
Citizens of certain countries are exempt from obtaining a visa for short visits to Vietnam.
The duration of visa-free stay varies depending on the nationality.
It's essential to check
the specific visa requirements based on your nationality and the purpose of your visit to Vietnam.
Each type of visa or pass has its own eligibility criteria, application process, and conditions of
stay.
Staying safe on the roads in Vietnam requires understanding the local driving conditions and adhering
to traffic rules. Here are some tips for road safety and driving rules in Vietnam:
1. Wear Helmets: Always wear a helmet when riding a motorbike or scooter. It's the law, and it
significantly reduces the risk of head injuries.
2. Stay Alert: Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Expect the unexpected, such as sudden
lane changes, pedestrians, and animals on the road.
3. Drive Defensively: Anticipate the actions of other road users and drive defensively to avoid
accidents.
4.Obey Traffic Laws: Follow traffic signals, signs, and speed limits. Keep to the right side of the
road and overtake on the left.
5. Use Lights: Use headlights, indicators, and brake lights to signal your intentions to other road
users.
6.Avoid Night Driving: Road conditions and visibility may be poor at night. If possible, avoid
driving after dark, especially in rural areas.
7. Watch for Motorbikes: Motorbikes are ubiquitous in Vietnam. Be cautious when turning or changing
lanes to avoid collisions with motorcyclists.
8. Use Crosswalks: When crossing the street, use designated crosswalks and wait for traffic to stop
before proceeding.
9. Be Patient: Traffic in Vietnam can be chaotic, especially in urban areas. Exercise patience and
avoid aggressive driving behaviors.
10. Drive on the Right: In Vietnam, vehicles drive on the right side of the road.
11. Speed Limits: Observe speed limits posted on road signs. Speed limits are typically lower in
urban areas and higher on highways.
12.Alcohol and Drugs: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited and
carries severe penalties.
13.Motorbike License: Ensure you have a valid motorbike license if you plan to ride a motorbike
or scooter.
14.Insurance: Have valid insurance coverage for your vehicle, especially if you're renting a
motorbike or car.
15.Horn Usage: Honking is common in Vietnam and is often used as a signal to indicate passing or
alert other drivers.
16.Lane Discipline: While lane markings exist, they are often disregarded. Expect vehicles to change
lanes and pass on either side.
17.Pedestrian Priority: Pedestrians have the right of way at designated crossings. Yield to
pedestrians and watch for them when turning.
By following these road safety tips and driving rules, you can stay safe while navigating the roads
in Vietnam.
To stay safe while enjoying the sea in Vietnam, whether swimming, snorkeling, or participating in
water activities, it's essential to follow these safety guidelines:
1. Swim in Designated Areas: Choose beaches with lifeguards and swim between the designated flags.
2. Check Conditions: Be aware of weather conditions, tides, and currents before entering the water.
Avoid swimming in rough seas or during strong currents.
3. Know Your Limits: Only swim if you're confident in your abilities. Don't swim alone, and never
swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
4. Watch for Warning Signs: Pay attention to warning signs indicating dangerous currents, jellyfish,
or other hazards.
5. Use Safety Equipment: Wear a life jacket when participating in water sports or activities,
especially if you're not a strong swimmer.
6. Follow Instructions: Listen to instructions from tour operators or instructors when engaging in
activities like snorkeling, diving, or kayaking.
7. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration, especially in hot and humid
conditions.
8. Beware of Jellyfish: Be cautious of jellyfish, especially during certain seasons. If stung, rinse
the affected area with vinegar and seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
9. Avoid Coral Reefs: Protect coral reefs by avoiding touching or stepping on them. Sharp coral can
cause injuries.
10.Use Licensed Operators: Choose reputable tour operators and ensure boats are properly maintained
and equipped with safety gear.
11. Wear Life Jackets: Always wear a life jacket when on board, and ensure there are enough for all
passengers.
12.Know Emergency Procedures: Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and the location of
life jackets and emergency exits on the boat.
13.Stay Informed: Stay updated on weather forecasts, marine conditions, and any advisories or
warnings.
14.Inform Others: Let someone know your plans, including your destination and expected return time,
especially if engaging in water activities alone.
15.Sun Protection: Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun's harmful
UV rays.
By following these safety tips and being aware of your surroundings, you can enjoy the beautiful
waters of Vietnam while minimizing the risks associated with sea-related activities.
