Thanks to its vibrant yet traditional cities, unashamedly idyllic coastline, incredible scenery, pulsating history and culture, and potpourri of people, Vietnam has everything.
When to go
Vietnam's weather is dictated by two monsoons. The winter monsoon comes from the northeast between October and March, bringing wet cold winters to all areas north of Nha Trang, and dry and warm temperatures to the south. From April or May to October, the southwestern monsoon brings warm, humid weather to the whole country except for those areas sheltered by mountains. For the best balance, try the months of April, May or October. For those sticking to the south, November to February is dry and a touch cooler. From July to November, violent and unpredictable typhoons hit central and northern Vietnam.
It gets pretty crowded from November to March and in July and August. Prices tend to peak over the Christmas and New Year period, but if you don't fancy sharing the sites with the masses, try to avoid these busy times.
Some people like to time a visit with Tet (Vietnamese New Year) which is the biggest festival in the calendar in late January or early February. A nice idea but not ideal, as the whole country is on the move.
What to take
- Bring as little as possible; Vietnam has pretty much anything you can find back home and is much cheaper.
- A universal plug adaptor
- A sweater for the highlands and air-con bus trips
- Mosquito repellent.
- Plastic bags to keep things separate, clean, and dry at the end of a long, wet day.
Right there. When you're in need.
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