Vietnam Travel Guide

Vietnam’s past is a fascinating mix of dynasties, foreign influence, and resilience. In the 3rd century BC, the Chinese Qin Dynasty took control, beginning more than a thousand years of Chinese rule until independence was won in 939 AD by the general Ngo Quyen. Over the centuries, homegrown dynasties such as the Ly, Tran, and Le shaped the nation, though there were brief returns of Chinese control. By the 1500s, the Portuguese were the first Europeans to set foot in Vietnam, and later, in the late 19th century, the French established their colony of Indochina. French influence can still be seen today in Vietnam’s charming colonial architecture, baguettes and coffee culture, and even in religion. During the Second World War, Japan occupied the country, and nationalist leader Ho Chi Minh rallied support for independence. After the war, France tried to regain control, sparking the First Indochina War. This eventually led to the division of the country into communist North and non-communist South—an uneasy split that escalated into the Vietnam War (1955–1975), with the USA heavily involved on the side of the South. The years that followed were tough, but in 1986, Vietnam launched economic reforms known as Doi Moi (“innovation” or “renovation”), which have transformed the country into the dynamic, welcoming destination travellers enjoy today.

Serious or violent crimes against foreigners in Vietnam are rare, but visitors should remain vigilant for petty theft, especially in larger cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, and when travelling on public transport. Never leave belongings unattended and always maintain a firm grip on cameras and shoulder bags. At some tourist sites you may encounter some insistent souvenir sellers. A polite “No, thank you” with a smile usually will suffice.Leave your expensive items at home and always use hotel safety deposit boxes or in-room safes for your valuables.

Irish and UK citizens require a visa to enter Vietnam. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months. Remember to bring a printed copy of your Tourist Visa approval email. If your visa is stamped in your passport, no additional documentation is required.

It is not advisable to drink tap water. Bottled mineral water is safe and available everywhere. All hotels provide a complimentary bottle of local mineral water, per person, in the room. Ice is generally okay in good standard hotels and restaurants but it is best to avoid it at street stalls or in rural areas. Some minor stomach problems are always possible when travelling in exotic countries, so bring a supply of your usual anti-diarrhoea medicine.

There aren’t any strict cultural rules about what you can or can’t wear in Vietnam, but comfort and practicality are key. The climate varies depending on when and where you travel, so packing a mix of clothing is wise. 

Northern Vietnam (October–March): It can get surprisingly cool, so bring layers such as a fleece or light jacket. 

Central & Southern Vietnam (most of the year): Lightweight clothing—T-shirts, shorts, flip-flops or sandals—will be your daily go-to. 

Evenings: Covering your arms and legs helps protect against mosquito bites. 

Rainy season: An umbrella or lightweight raincoat will be handy for both sudden downpours and strong sunshine. 

Cultural visits: When exploring temples, pagodas or monasteries, bring clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. 

Here’s a helpful packing checklist: 

• Day bag or small rucksack
• Mobile phone & charger
• Camera & charger
• Sun cream Insect repellent with DEET Small first aid kit (paracetamol, antihistamines, Imodium, plasters, etc.)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Flip-flops or sandals
• Broad-brimmed sun hat & sunglasses
• Jacket, cardigan, or fleece for cooler evenings
• Lightweight raincoat (during rainy season)
• Shorts, long trousers, and a mix of short- and long-sleeved T-shirts
• Swimming costume