Vietnam is a land of legends and contrasts: ancient temples, French colonial boulevards, terraced rice fields, and buzzing scooters. I – Ullrich H. Angersbach – traveled from Hanoi to the Mekong Delta, experiencing Ha Long Bay, Hue, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City along the way.

What impressed me most was the energy—markets alive with chatter, the balance of tradition and modern life, and food that is both simple and extraordinary.

For US travelers: A tourist eVisa is required for most US citizens. It can be obtained online and is valid for 30 days, single entry. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months. Always print your visa confirmation.

Arrival & First Impressions

Most US flights connect via Tokyo, Seoul, Hong Kong, or Singapore. Entry points include Hanoi (HAN) in the north and Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) in the south.

Costs (USD approx.):

• Coffee: USD 1–2 (Vietnam is famous for its strong iced coffee).
• Street food meal: USD 2–4
• Dinner in a mid-range restaurant: USD 10–15 per person
• Hotel (mid-range): USD 40–80 per night
• Domestic flight: USD 40–70

Vietnam is highly affordable compared to most destinations.

Hanoi – tradition & colonial charm

Vietnam’s capital blends ancient temples, French architecture, and street life.

• Old Quarter: narrow streets named after traditional trades.
• Hoan Kiem Lake: peaceful center with Ngoc Son Temple.
• Temple of Literature: Confucian shrine and Vietnam’s first university.
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: iconic but solemn site.

Street food is the star: pho (noodle soup), banh mi (baguette sandwiches), and bun cha (grilled pork with noodles).

Ha Long Bay – limestone wonders

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Ha Long Bay features thousands of limestone karsts rising from the sea.

• Overnight cruises: explore caves, floating villages, and hidden lagoons.
• Kayaking: paddle into quiet coves.
• Sunrise on deck: misty mornings create unforgettable views.

Hue – imperial Vietnam

The former capital offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s royal past.

• Imperial Citadel: palaces, gates, and temples of the Nguyen dynasty.
• Thien Mu Pagoda: iconic riverside temple.
• Perfume River cruises: evening boat rides with traditional music.

Hoi An – lantern-lit charm

Hoi An is Vietnam’s most atmospheric town.

• Old Town: preserved merchant houses and temples.
• Japanese Covered Bridge: symbol of the city.
• Lantern Festival: streets glowing with colorful lights.
• Tailor shops: custom clothing at affordable prices.

Nearby beaches (An Bang, Cua Dai) add relaxation to culture.

Ho Chi Minh City – modern Vietnam

Formerly Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s economic hub.

• Notre Dame Cathedral & Central Post Office: French colonial landmarks.
• War Remnants Museum: sobering history of the Vietnam War.
• Ben Thanh Market: bustling with souvenirs, clothes, and food.
• Rooftop bars: skyline views at night.

Mekong Delta – river life

South of Ho Chi Minh City lies the Mekong Delta, a maze of rivers, canals, and islands.

• Floating markets: boats selling fruits and vegetables.
• Homestays: experience rural life with local families.
• Rice paddies & orchards: Vietnam’s agricultural heartland.

Health & Safety for US Travelers

• Vaccinations: CDC recommends Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus, and routine shots. Depending on itinerary: Hepatitis B, Japanese Encephalitis, Rabies.
• Malaria & dengue: risk in rural areas—use repellent and consider prophylaxis.
• Water & food: Drink bottled water; eat at busy stalls for freshness.
• Medical care: Good in major cities, limited in rural areas. Carry travel insurance.
• Safety: Vietnam is safe; scams and pickpockets in tourist areas. Traffic is chaotic—cross slowly, and scooters will flow around you.

Practical Travel Tips

• Best seasons: March–May and Sept–Nov. Summers are hot; typhoon risk in central coast (Aug–Oct).
• Transport: Domestic flights are cheap and reliable. Trains scenic but slow.
• Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND). Credit cards accepted in big cities; cash essential elsewhere.
• Language: Vietnamese official; English limited but growing.
• Power: 220V, Type A/C plugs—bring adapter.
• Food: Try spring rolls, fresh seafood, and strong Vietnamese coffee.

Conclusion: Vietnam rewards curiosity

Vietnam offers US travelers history, landscapes, and flavors at every step: temples, bays, street markets, and warm hospitality. It is a journey of senses—chaotic yet calm, humble yet grand.

Recommended Reading (English)

• Lonely Planet: Vietnam – practical guide.
• Graham Greene: The Quiet American – classic novel set in Vietnam.
• Duong Van Mai Elliott: The Sacred Willow – family saga across Vietnamese history.

• Belgium
• Cambodia
• Côte d’Azur
• Crete
• Croatian Coast
• Gdańsk – Malbork – Sopot
• Greece Journey
• Holy Land
• Iceland
• India
• Lake Starnberg
• Myanmar
• Namibia
• Oman
• Seiser Alm
• Slovenia
• South Africa
• Sweden
• Tenerife
• Venice
• Warsaw – Krakow

Disclaimer

This report reflects my personal impressions of Vietnam. Visa rules, transport schedules, and weather conditions may change—always check official updates.

About the Author – Ullrich H. Angersbach

I, Ullrich H. Angersbach, am drawn to destinations where history and daily life intertwine. Vietnam impressed me with its contrasts: ancient temples and modern cafés, quiet rivers and chaotic traffic. I write for US travelers who want insight beyond the surface.

Copyright

© 2025 Ullrich H. Angersbach. All rights reserved. Unauthorized reproduction, translation, or distribution prohibited.