There is so much to see and do in Vietnam and cramming it all into a short holiday can be a difficult job! We are therefore here to give you advice, let you into our secrets (sshhh) and put together the perfect tour that suits you. We understand that everyone is different and that is why the majority of our tours are private. So there are no large buses, no waiting around for people to take photos or being shuffled around museums. It’s just you and your guide!

There are many off the beaten track villages, islands, parks, trekking routes that we cannot list here, as there is simply not enough space. We have therefore listed the highlights of this beautiful country and should you wish to venture further into the depths, please contact us for more information.

The following information has been put together by our expat staff. We hope you find it useful…

Did you know that?

• Over 50% of the population share the same surname: Nguyen
• A UN survey says that only 6% of the population are over 65 years of age and 31% are under 15 years (2003 consensus)
• It is pretty much the same size and shape as Italy (well a little bit bigger, but not far off)
• Vietnam is the largest producer of cashew nuts in the world
• Local beer is only 3,000 VND (about 20 cents) a glass
• Internet cafes must register the personal details of customers

Why we love Vietnam (and think you will too)

• Every day is different
• The people are proud, hardworking and ambitious and a great fun.
• You can spend one day trekking through minority villages and the next day kayaking in Halong Bay
• It has an amazing amount of absolutely delicious regional cuisine. So much so that Lonely Planet wrote a whole book about Food in Vietnam.  
• It is rich with history and the architecture really portrays this

Our top tips on getting the best out of Vietnam

• When crossing roads, don’t hesitate and keep a steady pace, the traffic will go around you.
• The Vietnamese love to add spoonfuls of sugar to their delicious and fresh fruit juices, if you prefer it not so sweet then simply say ‘eet duong’ (written phonetically), meaning little sugar
• When traveling in trains use a silk sleeping bag. You can buy them anywhere for a few dollars
• Learn a few phrases before you go.
• When you don’t want to buy a banana or pineapple just smile and say no. A smile gets your so far in Vietnam.
• Don’t attach yourselves to your guide book. Getting lost and eating street food is half the fun of being on holiday! You can always get a taxi/xe om (motorbike taxi) or cyclo back to your hotel.

Language

Useful words

Top Tips for Destinations Within Vietnam