Particularly for those looking for a reasonably priced vacation without compromising culture or experience, Vietnam has quickly become a must-see destination for visitors from all around the world in recent years. Vietnam presents a variety of experiences fit for all kinds of visitors with its rich past, breathtaking scenery, and delicious cuisine. The nation attracted an amazing 12.6 million tourists in 2023 alone, up a stunning 3.5 times rise from 2022.
There are many convincing reasons for a Filipino visitor to visit Vietnam, and this guide will underline some basic advice to guarantee a seamless and fun tour.
Savvy Vietnamese Food without Breaking the Budget
Vietnam’s mouthwatering and varied cuisine is among its key draws; not only are they excellent but also somewhat reasonably priced. You cannot miss sampling a bowl of real pho at Pho 10 when in Hanoi; this dish has gained Michelin guide ratings for 2023 and 2024. At a fraction of the cost you could pay in other countries, a bowl of hot pho here ranges from 45,000 to 80,000 VND (about P102 – P183), making it an encouraging and delicious dinner.
Should you be in the mood for the famous Vietnamese sandwich, Banh Mi, you will find several food vendors all throughout Hanoi presenting this delicious delicacy. For a remarkable experience, nevertheless, visit Banh Mi 25, where rates go from 30,000 to 40,000 VND (about P68 – P91). Every mouthful of the variety of fillings and fresh foods is a taste sensation.
Another must-try meal is the savory Vietnamese crepe Banh Xeo, loaded with mouthwatering cuisine. For anyone unfamiliar with this cuisine, see Mr. Bay Mien Tay in Hanoi to be taught through the customary Banh Xeo eating technique. Offering a real sense of Vietnamese culture, prices here range from 65,000 to 85,000 VND (about P149 – P 195).
Splitwise Simplifies Group Travel Expenses
While traveling with friends can be an exciting event, it can also cause uncertainty about how to handle common expenses. Look at using Splitwise to simplify group travel. Based on the size of your group, this free application lets you automatically split expenses and log spending. Tracking your expenses throughout the trip will help you to prevent the stress of recalling who paid for what, thereby facilitating your final debt settlement.
Taste the famous egg coffee from Hanoi; but, avoid drinking it after 4 p.m.
Although Vietnamese coffee is praised all around for its strong and rich taste, try egg coffee, a local delicacy that is distinctive and great while in Hanoi. Originally developed by Nguyen Van Giang in the 1940s, egg coffee is a creamy and filling beverage created by mixing strong Vietnamese coffee with whipped egg yolk and sweetened condensed milk. See Café Giang for a real experience; you may sip egg coffee for just 25,000 VND (about P57). To guarantee a peaceful night’s sleep, it is suggested to avoid taking it after 4 p.m. though, given its strength.
Choose a Physical Card issued from a Digital Bank
Especially in terms of avoiding overspending, handling your money while on holiday is absolutely vital. Use a real card from a digital bank like Maya Mastercard rather than depending just on conventional credit cards. This option gives you more control over your spending by letting you preload the card with a set trip budget. Using my Maya card to withdraw money from ATMs and make purchases at POS-enabled businesses proved not difficult on my most recent visit to Hanoi. Digital bank apps also usually provide real-time tracking of your spending, so you’ll know precisely how much you have left in your budget without waiting for transactions to show.
Keep Safely Hydrated with Bottled Water
Traveling might introduce you to several foods and beverages, which might upset your stomach. Whenever you eat out, keep to bottled water if you want to remain safe and healthy on your trip. This will allow you to guarantee that you are drinking safe and pure water. Furthermore, smart is to pack your chosen over-the-counter drugs for gut health, should your stomach react to fresh aromas and spices.
Explore the Local History and Culture.
Apart from the gastronomic pleasures, Vietnam boasts a rich legacy in history and culture. There is enough of sight to discover from the busy districts of Hanoi to the calm settings of Ha Long Bay. Think about seeing famous sites such as the Temple of Literature, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the energetic markets providing insight into the local way of life. Many historical landmarks and museums are also reasonably priced, which facilitates easy immersion in the legacy of the nation.
Discover Many Natural Wonders
From the terraced rice fields in Sapa to the amazing limestone karsts in HaLong Bay, Vietnam boasts some amazing natural settings. Not only is a day trip to see these natural beauties enlightening, but also usually rather reasonably priced. To maximize your time in the great outdoors, many tour companies provide reasonably priced packages including guides and transportation, therefore enabling you.
Connect with Locals and Other Travelers
Try to interact with residents and other visitors as you travel about Vietnam. Talking with others you encounter might offer insightful analysis and advice, therefore improving your trip. Another excellent approach to meet like-minded people that share your love of travel is by organizing group trips or community events.
All kinds of visitors will find Vietnam’s energetic environment and pleasant people appealing. Whether you’re meandering through historic alleys, eating street food, or setting off an adventure to secret treasures, Vietnam’s attitude inspires inquiry and learning. Accept the chance to venture beyond your comfort zone and really enjoy the splendor of this intriguing nation.
These travel ideas and Vietnam’s unquestionable beauty will help you to discover the rich culture, great food, and breathtaking scenery of this reasonably priced country. Vietnam offers an amazing trip that will leave you with lifelong memories regardless of your level of experience as a visitor or seasoned one that will not break the budget.
