Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you click an affiliate link or book through an affiliate program, I receive a small commission at no cost to you! See my Privacy Policy for more information.
They said, “Split your days in Cambodia and visit Vietnam as well—it’ll be worth it.” And with that advice, I set out to experience Vietnam, leaving Europe behind as the first leg of my Girl Takes Mundo journey shifted into Southeast Asia. Yet, upon arrival at Ho Chi Minh City Airport, the customs officer asked the dreaded question: “Where’s your visa?” You don’t want to hear this so sharing this Vietnam Travel & VISA Information to save you the headaches and money. I wish I would have been told this myself.
Vietnam Travel & VISA Information Table Of Contents
Plan Your Vietnam Travel
 Flight |  Stay |  Do |  Drive |
| Skyscanner | Booking | Viator | QEEQ |
Preparing for Your Vietnam VISA: What Every Traveler Needs to Know
Vietnam has specific visa requirements, which can sometimes catch travelers off guard, as I learned firsthand. Before you travel, always check the embassy’s official site for the most up-to-date visa information. Many countries, including Vietnam, now allow online visa applications, making the process much easier. This site helps you apply for your Vietnam e-visa which should be done before you visit. However, don’t make the mistake of assuming you’re covered based on outdated information! Due to a lack of verification at my last layover in Abu Dhabi, I had to obtain an emergency visa in Vietnam, which came with a hefty $170 fee.
Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City in Just 4 Days
Despite the rough start, I was determined to make the most of my four days in Ho Chi Minh City. This vibrant city can be explored efficiently, even with limited time. For those who love navigating by foot, get ready to test your reflexes! With so many motorbikes and cars weaving through the streets, crossing becomes a real-life version of Frogger. Don’t be surprised to see locals and even Uber drivers picking up riders on motorbikes—an experience that’s authentically Vietnam!
Ho Chi Minh Food Scene: A Vegetarian Twist
One must-try in Vietnam is the pho, a fragrant, savory noodle soup found at every turn. However, my culinary experience in Vietnam also took a unique turn. Noticing the absence of dogs around the city, I opted to go vegetarian during my time here and it’s what kicked off my journey as a vegetarian. In Vietnam, dog meat is sometimes seen as a delicacy, which was difficult for me as a dog mom. But travel often reminds us that cultural differences can include aspects we may not understand or share, especially around food customs.
Consider booking an authentic Vietnamese cooking class or joining a food tour in Ho Chi Minh (They offer a vegan tour as well) to better understand their cuisine.
Beyond the City: Mekong Delta and Cu Chi Tunnels
If you’re looking for day trips from Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta and Cu Chi Tunnels are popular options. I chose a two-day Mekong Delta tour that included a home-stay, a floating market, and a small cooking class where I learned to make spring rolls. But keep in mind, while these tours can be interesting, they also come with a touristy feel. The home-stay offers an immersive local experience, though the pace might be a bit slow for some travelers.
Vietnam Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
Visa Requirements: Double-check visa requirements on the official embassy site, and ensure any layover stops check your documents.
Traffic Rules: Practice caution on busy streets, and follow locals’ lead for safely crossing traffic-heavy areas.
Cultural Sensitivity: Be open-minded, especially when it comes to different food customs. Vietnamese cuisine has unique elements, so you may want to plan accordingly if you have dietary preferences.
Final Vietnam Travel Thoughts
Vietnam’s dynamic energy and bustling city life will make your stay a memorable one, even if your time here is brief. With the right planning using my Vietnam Travel & VISA Information and a little patience, a few days in Ho Chi Minh City offer a glimpse of Vietnam’s history, culture, and modern pace of life. Ready to add Vietnam to your Southeast Asia itinerary?
Discover More With Girl Takes Mundo
Explore my Travel Guides Section for more destinations in Asia like Seoul and Japan.
Discover more from Girl Takes Mundo
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
I would probably start panicking and crying if that happened to me. :S It is good that you still managed to get into Vietnam. Lovely photos, I so want to visit Vietnam.
Admittedly, I think my long journey had me numb and possibly indifferent at that point that i didn’t break down in Vietnam as I should have. And I’ve had my share of travel hiccups with lost luggage, taking wrong trains etc. that I’ve learned to embrace them and know it’s all part of traveling and being a nomad.
Vietnam is definitely a place I want to return and visit the north as the visa they approved me with didn’t allow for long exploration in the country.