Vietnam is a truly fascinating and attractive location to visit and discover after the pandemic. However, a backpacking tour may be more challenging than taking a package vacation, so it will be essential for you to be aware of what you should know before arriving in Vietnam. The following list of 10 simple guidelines for independent travel in Vietnam is the latest information from the viewpoint of a local ambassador.
1. Identify the purpose of the trip and find companions
Anything needs a firm foundation as well as a traveling plan. Therefore, defining the primary purpose of your trip should be the first step in the checklist. For instance, exploring local cuisine to learn about the region’s culinary history, experiencing scenic wonders and historic sites, hiking, diving, or just taking a tour that includes all of these activities.
Everything would be more fantastic if you have someone beside you to share great memories and expenses together. It simply is your friends or your family and don’t be afraid to invite them to join you. Or you participate in SUP groups and find it monotonous to surf in the same spots every day. Why don’t you arrange a trip to Phan Thiet so that everyone may enjoy Mui Ne fishing village’s surfing for the first time? Touring around with beloved ones is a notable experience.
2. Pick the right time at the right place
Each natural location has its timeslot. To have a wonderful vacation, you need to choose the ideal time to visit your chosen location, especially in Vietnam.
Phu Quoc island is best visited in the summer when the sun gently touches the dazzling golden sand and the romantic sunset throws a rosy glow over the western beach. Or when Ninh Binh rice paddies are at their peak of maturity and provide a stunning scene in the autumn. It’s difficult to erase the place’s calm atmosphere and portrait sights.
Moreover, if you visit Hoi An during the Mid-Autumn Festival, unique folk activities surrounded by brilliant lights will blow your mind away and illuminate the entire historic town.
Have you ever witnessed a glimpse of a turtle laying eggs? Con Dao in the second and third quarters is the place for you to marvel at this fascinating natural phenomenon.
Besides, don’t forget to check the latest forecast before your journey to ensure that poor weather won’t affect it. For an accurate estimate of when to leave and how long to stay, it is advised to utilize the weather apps Accuweather and Windy.
3. Create a flexible itinerary: things to do and places to eat
A checklist is an essential tool for you to list all of your favorite or wanted dishes and the locations. The next step is to build a timeline for your visit which allows you to try Vietnamese cuisine as much as possible rather than random picks.
You may easily get some valuable travel information in the following sources:
- Tripadvisor: This app mostly features well-known restaurants and local cuisines. Here, you may find a wealth of honest views from experienced people.
- Many related articles from the hashtags #ghiendalat and #dulichsapa (#ghien + “chosen location” & #dulich + “chosen location”), as well as independent travel groups on Facebook and Instagram, provide helpful information.
- The most reliable sources of independent travel reviews undoubtedly are well-known backpackers’ blogs and YouTube videos. On the basis of their itineraries, you may tailor your trip better.
The last stage in planning is to record a detailed schedule on your phone since it is easier for you to verify everything. Thus, you should also print the itinerary.
4. Decide on accommodation
Even if guests’ preferences for accommodation vary widely, the primary two essentials are safety and cleanliness.
- Agoda, Booking, and Airbnb are popular sites for finding and reserving lodging. There are several options available, including hotels with suitable rooms, resorts, hostels, and homestays.
- Another advice is to select locations with five-star reviews and favorable remarks. Reliable feedback is typically expressed detailed with photographs linked. And don’t forget to call to confirm the reservation after you’ve finished booking.
5. Book flights
Air transportation is the most popular option among all forms of transportation due to its simplicity and affordable price. Here are some tips to help you with your flight reservations.
- Booking via official airplane websites (Vietnam Airlines, Pacific Airlines, VietjetAir, Bamboo Airways, Vietravel Airlines): Since the airlines are responsible for your reservations, any issues are quickly resolved. There is, however, no published comparison of the itineraries and costs of other airlines.
- Booking via apps (Traveloka, Vietnambooking, Agoda):
The benefits of this decision provide appropriate information about all airlines. However, using an app to book might put you at risk. For instance, it is very likely that you need to book another ticket if you incorrectly input your first and last names throughout the reservation procedure.
Especially lastly, to ensure that everything happens on schedule and you should get a round-trip ticket for safety. A one-way ticket is strongly advised if your trip is flexible.
6. Independent travel packing tips
Only the items that are absolutely required for your trip should be packed. To make sure you don’t forget anything, create a sheet of needed stuff to bring and cross out anything you can buy at the destination. Additionally, internet shopping is a terrific way to save time and discover different travel-friendly items and devices.
Furthermore, cash is required in addition to necessities because certain tourist destinations are not available for credit cards or ATMs. You should prepare some cash on hand to deal with such circumstances.
>>> See more: KEY PACKING TIPS WHILE TRAVEL IN VIETNAM
7. Book the right local vehicle for your needs
Traditional car reservations include taking a cab at the airport, renting vehicles from your lodging, or through recommendations. That necessitates a great deal of time and still face numerous issues.
Booking using apps like Grab, Be, and Gojek is an additional option. Although it is secure and practical, reservations in advance are not permitted. Additionally, vans are not usually an alternative in these services.
Lately, the optimal option for this situation is Gobooya since the services are based on the customer’s flexible itinerary. There are a variety of transportation options for you to choose as well as fully control your own tour.
8. Write a review
After using any goods or services throughout your journey, don’t forget to rate and provide accurate, in-depth feedback. Although it may seem unusual, this makes perfect sense. The following points are key ones:
- The Golden Rule: Since you also plan your tour based on some recommendations and feedback from seniors as well. Therefore, your personal reviews of various locations may provide other travelers with some helpful information. In their self-organized tour, that really improves the experiences.
- Feedbacks are used to help businesses enhance their quality of services as well.
- Thus, writing a review is a great method to highlight your ideal vacations as well as discuss your experiences.
Making plans in advance of the vacation is essential. The more specific the strategy, the more fun you can have. You may completely manage your itinerary and have the finest autonomous travel experiences when you make as many possible reservations as you can.
