Vietnam has become a top travel destination, drawing people from all over the world! In 2023 alone, over 12 million tourists visited Vietnam, thanks to its affordability and endless things to explore. Here are five simple and smart tips to make your trip to Vietnam amazing:
1. Don’t Miss Out on Local Foods Like Pho, Banh Mi, and Banh Xeo!
- Pho: In Hanoi, you can get a bowl of delicious, authentic pho at Pho 10 for just about $2-$4. It’s on the Michelin guide for a reason!
- Banh Mi: Try a Banh Mi sandwich from any street cart, or head to Banh Mi 25, where prices range from 30,000 to 40,000 VND (about $1.50).
- Banh Xeo: This is a crispy Vietnamese crepe, and Mr. Bay Mien Tay restaurant in Hanoi serves it up with a little help from the staff on how to eat it, the Vietnamese way!
2. Use a Bill-Splitting App for Group Trips
- Traveling with friends? Use a free app like Splitwise to keep track of expenses. It’s easy to use and helps you split costs without needing to pay back right away.
3. Try Vietnam’s Unique Egg Coffee, But Watch the Time!
- Egg coffee is a must-try in Hanoi. Café Giang serves it up for only 25,000 VND (around $1). But be careful—it’s strong coffee, so you might want to avoid drinking it after 4 p.m. if you want a good night’s sleep.
4. Bring a Physical Debit Card from a Digital Bank
- Instead of using a traditional credit card, a debit card from a digital bank can be topped up with exactly what you plan to spend. This way, you control your budget, and you can track your spending right in the app!
5. Stick to Bottled Water
- Your stomach might need time to adjust to local foods, so stay safe by drinking bottled water. Bringing some stomach medicine is also a good idea, just in case.
Follow these simple tips, and you’re all set to enjoy the beauty and adventure that Vietnam has to offer!
