After traveling through Vietnam for a month, even though this was my second time traveling through Southeast Asia, I still learned a lot of new things. Here are my tips and tricks that can make your life a little easier!

– Make sure to acquire your visa at least a week in advance; you can do that by visiting the official e-visa website.
– Though it does get super hot in Vietnam, please be aware that many of the temples you will want to visit have a dress code, usually stating you must cover your knees, whether with a long dress/skirt or pants, and you also must cover your shoulders and back.
– Download the app “Grab”; it’s the Uber of Vietnam, and you can also order food through it!
– Most places you visit will only accept cash, so make sure you always have some on you.
– Do NOT drink the tap water; I would even try to avoid ice cubes given to you at restaurants!
– Tipping is not common or expected in Vietnam.
– Avoid scams; if someone approaches you on the street and offers you a full-day guided trip around the city, it’s most likely a scam. Avoid this by booking online through reputable companies. I recommend GetYourGuide, Airbnb, or Klook.
– Get a travel adapter because the wall outlets in Vietnam are not the same as in the U.S., so you will need an adapter to plug in your devices!