Kin Hotel • 11 Sep, 2025

Vietnam on Your First Trip: Do’s, Don’ts & Smart Hacks

A warm hello to your Vietnam adventure!

Visiting Vietnam for the first time? You're in for a soul-stirring experience — from vibrant street life and mouthwatering food to rich traditions and breathtaking landscapes. But the same things that make Vietnam so thrilling can also overwhelm first-time travelers: the traffic that seems to flow without rules, the chopsticks etiquette you didn’t know existed, or the classic “why is everyone honking?” moment.

This guide blends local hacks, cultural etiquette, and insider travel tips so you can skip the rookie mistakes and focus on soaking up Vietnam’s warmth, flavors, and beauty.

Photo credit: Vietnam Visa

Entry & pre-trip prep

• Sort your visa early: Most visitors can apply for a 90-day e-visa online at evisa.gov.vn. Stick to the official site — plenty of lookalike agencies overcharge.

• Stay connected: SIM cards are cheap and reliable. Viettel and MobiFone are your best bet. Or, grab an eSIM if you want to land ready.

• Bring cash: Vietnamese đồng (VND) is king at local markets and street vendors. ATMs aren’t rare, but don’t rely solely on cards.

Pro tip: Pre-download offline Google Maps and a translation app. They’ll save you when Wi-Fi dips or when your Grab driver speaks no English.

Getting around: transport realities locals know

The traffic may look wild, but locals glide through it with ease. Here’s how you can, too:

Photo credit: TNK Travel

• Grab > taxis: GrabCar and GrabBike are safer and cheaper than flagging down random taxis. If you must, stick with trusted companies like Mai Linh or Vinasun.

• Xanh SM taxis: Keep an eye out for turquoise electric cabs — clean, reliable, and the pride of Vietnam’s green transport push.

• Crossing the street: Walk steadily, don’t stop suddenly, and let the river of motorbikes part around you. Confidence is key.

• Buses & trains: In big cities, the BusMap app helps you navigate local buses for pennies. For long trips, trains are scenic but slow — budget airlines like VietJet, Bamboo Airways, and Vietnam Airlines will fly you across the country in two hours.

Money & tipping: the unspoken rules

• Official ATMs only: Use machines inside malls or banks — street ATMs sometimes get tampered with.

• Tipping culture: Not mandatory, but always appreciated. Round up small fares, tip guides or drivers with 20,000–50,000 VND, and add 5–10% in restaurants if the service was great.

• Hidden costs: Those wet tissues on the table? They’ll be added to your bill. Ask first if you don’t want them.

Hidden cultural etiquette

Vietnamese culture prizes respect and subtlety. Here are some easy ways to avoid faux pas:

Photo credit: Vietnam Teaching Jobs

• Shoes off indoors: Always remove them before entering a home or temple.

• Chopsticks care: Never stick chopsticks upright in rice — it resembles funeral offerings. Rest them neatly instead.

• Greetings: A smile and gentle “xin chào” (hello) works wonders. Avoid loud or aggressive tones.

• Temple visits: Cover shoulders and knees, and speak softly.

Food etiquette & safety hacks

Street food is part of Vietnam’s soul. With a little care, you can enjoy it like locals do:

• Follow the crowds: Busy stalls = fresher food.

• Watch how ingredients are stored: Vendors with covered produce are usually safer bets.

• Bottled water only: Tap water isn’t safe for drinking. Ice is fine in busy restaurants, but avoid it in street stalls.

• Dip, don’t drown: Vietnamese food is already balanced — taste first, season later.

• Seafood test: On the coast? Pick live tanks over pre-cooked trays.

Safety & street smarts

Vietnam is generally safe, but a few habits help:

• Keep your bag in front of you in crowded markets.

• Avoid shady taxi offers at airports — book via app or official counters.

• Trust your instincts at night — stick to main streets or call a Grab.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is tap water safe to drink in Vietnam?

No — always stick to bottled or filtered water. Ice in big restaurants is usually factory-made and safe, but at small stalls, check before you sip.

How much should I budget daily?

Budget travelers: $25–35/day. Mid-range: $50–70. Luxury: $100+. Street food and intercity buses keep costs low, while fine dining and boutique stays add up.

Is Vietnam safe for solo female travelers?

Yes. Vietnam is one of the safer Southeast Asian destinations. Stick to common-sense habits like avoiding deserted alleys late at night, and you’ll likely feel at ease.

Do I need to tip?

Not required, but a small gesture is appreciated. Rounding up fares or leaving 20,000–50,000 VND for good service goes a long way.

What about scams?

The most common are taxi overcharges and vendors quoting tourist prices. Use Grab, check menus before ordering, and don’t be afraid to politely say no.

What’s the best way to get from the airport?

Pre-book a Grab, use Xanh SM, or head to the official taxi counters. Avoid unlicensed drivers who approach you directly.

Settling in with Kin Hotel

If all this seems like a lot to juggle, you might appreciate having a local friend in your travel plans.

Kin Hotel, nestled in the heart of the city, is your perfect launchpad. Whether you're arriving tired or planning late-night adventures, Kin places you just steps away from central streets, markets, and vibrant neighborhoods. And their friendly team is always ready to help — whether it’s recommending an authentic pho stall or helping you book a trusted Grab ride.

Stay with Kin, and you’ll feel secure, savvy, and always just minutes away from where locals live and love.

🛎️ Book your stay with Kin Hotel

Why this guide matters

Your first trip to Vietnam won’t be perfect — and that’s exactly the point. You’ll mispronounce “phở,” you’ll cross a street with your heart in your throat, and you’ll stumble into a hidden alley where someone hands you the best iced coffee of your life.

Come with curiosity, patience, and a smile. Do respect local customs, don’t stress the small mistakes, and embrace the chaos as part of the charm.

Vietnam isn’t just a destination — it’s an adventure waiting to pull you in. And with these do’s, don’ts, and smart hacks, you’ll be ready not just to visit, but to belong.

Photo credit: Get Visa Vietnam

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