Traveling to Vietnam?  Not sure what to bring?

Here is a list of things that you need to bring with you to ensure that you'll have one of the best trips of your life.

Passport/Visa - If you have not already done so, you must obtain a U.S. passport. Application forms are available at most U.S. post offices or local government offices. Processing time takes about three weeks. Once you receive your passport, photocopy the front page and carry it with two passport pictures in a separate place from your passport. This will make the reissue by the local U.S. consulate easier if the passport is lost or stolen. Visas are required for Vietnam so you will need to check with the consulate that has jurisdiction over your residential location for further information.

Clothing and other personal items - You do not have to take your entire wardrobe with you. Business attire is only necessary to wear in court, but remember that appropriate attire for everyday wear tends to be more formal in many countries other than in the United States. Shorts and loud sports shirts probably won't do. Take comfortable walking shoes. 

Camera - A camera is an absolute must! If you use a video camera, take at least one extra battery. Most of the newer charging units have internal converters, but you will need the proper type of adapter plug. Film and blank videocassettes are available in most countries. Don't forget that many countries use the PAL video format, which is usually not compatible with our VHS format. To avoid problems with your duty-free allowances when you return home, register the camera with the U.S. Customs before you depart.

Money - Whether you will be staying for just a few days or for many months, you will need to have adequate funds. It is risky to take large amounts of cash with you. Before departing, contact your credit card company. Explain that you will be traveling and ask for a modest increase in your credit limit. If you are planning to take traveler's checks, the most often recognized and easily exchanged are either American Express or Thomas Cook.  Keep a list of serial numbers in a separate place. [See more about money exchange in Vietnam]

Other necessities - If you are traveling with an infant, a "huggy-pack" to carry the baby in front of you will come in handy. It leaves your hands free and is great for sightseeing. For a toddler or preschooler, a fold-up canvas stroller is invaluable.

Making airline reservations - Your airline reservations should be made as soon as you have determined tentative departure and return dates. The cost of a round-trip airline ticket is dependant upon a number of factors including departure date, advance-booking requirements, days of the week you are traveling, and the estimated duration of your stay.  Infants under the age of two will require a ticket between the international Departure City and the point of first U.S. entry. It costs approximately 10 percent of the adult one-way fare. On domestic flights within the United States, the infant travels free. Each child age 2 to 11 years requires a ticket between the international Departure City and home that costs approximately two-thirds of the adult one-way fare.

Depending on the regulations of the destination country, the ticket can either be issued in the United States and carried with you or set up as a prepaid ticket for pickup in that country. Certain countries require the purchase of the infant or child's ticket there. 

Learning about the country - You will enhance your trip and your understanding of the culture if you read, read, read before you go. Start by locating information at your local library and through your travel agent. Ask for pamphlets or other general information from the Vietnam embassy or consulate. Also inquire about the addresses for government tourist offices and trade organizations. The government tourist office can provide maps and specific country and city information. Ask for lodging, sightseeing. and other details.

In addition, learn some of the native language. Don't worry if your pronunciation is not exactly right because it will become better with practice. Take language classes, listen to tapes in your home or car or read a book.  You have no idea how much this will help to open up the doors to the country.

Immigration

After you've landed and collected your luggage. Follow your fellow passengers to Customs and Immigration.

Once you arrive at your destination, you will present your passport and Tourist Card (if required you will usually receive it on the aircraft). The officials will check you against their list of "undesirables," ensure you have the necessary visas, and stamp the passport with your entry approval. Hang on to the Tourist Card if it is issued.

Sometimes it helps to stuff a little bit of money into your passport ($5 or $10 US) to expedite your session with the custom official.  Bribery remains a major problem in Vietnam. 

Taking in the culture - Ask about tours through a local tour operator or travel agent. Go shopping. Find out the handicrafts for which the country is known. Go shopping.  Use your driver or strike out on your own to the local flea market or shopping district. Go Shopping.   You never know what interesting things you might find.

Culture Shock - You first notice it when you walk out of Customs and Immigration. You can't put your finger on it, but the feeling is there. It's more than just a language difference, a physical difference, a clothing difference and a difference in physical features of the people. It is a different culture, a different set of values. You are a guest in someone else's homeland and you must conduct yourself accordingly.

Don't let the culture get the best of you. If you are uncomfortable, just think that many of the people would feel the same way in our country too. Don't be afraid to ask for assistance. Almost everyone will be glad to help and you never know what interesting friendships you might strike up.

Traveling home- As your trip comes to a close, it will be easy to think about relaxing. You must reconfirm your flights at least 72 hours prior to departure or the air carrier may cancel your reservations. Request bulkhead seats from the gate agent for extra comfort. Then, once you're through the exit formalities, enjoy the flight home knowing your trip was a success because you had planned for it in advance.

Some more traveling tips.

[ Travel Tips ] [ Money Tips ] [ When To Go ] [ Where To Go ]

Home | About us | Make money with the Internet | Kim Anderson Arts | Asian DVD | Asian Posters