TRAVEL TO VIETNAM

Prices are not published on our website due to the dynamic nature of the travel industry. Fluctuations in costs, such as airline fares, fuel prices, accommodation rates, and other factors, make it challenging to maintain real-time accuracy. 

To provide you with the most up-to-date and competitive pricing, we prefer to offer personalized quotes or estimates based on your specific travel preferences and needs. This ensures that you receive the best value for your travel experience and that you are not bound by outdated information.  

We aim to provide transparency and flexibility to cater to your unique travel requirements. Contact us today to learn about current prices.

Yes. All passport holders, please make sure your passport is current and valid for at least 6 months beyond your trip departure date. Your passport should have at least 2 blank pages for the entry and exit stamps, or more if you are visiting several countries on this trip.

Please note that the last two amendment pages are not acceptable for visas and immigration stamp

Most travelers need a visa to enter Vietnam, although some nationalities are eligible for visa exemptions. Vietnam currently offers e-visas for citizens of all countries and territories, with options for single or multiple entries and stays of up to 90 days.

Visa requirements can change, so we recommend checking the latest regulations based on your nationality before making travel plans.

For the most current information and to apply for an e-visa, visit Vietnam's official immigration website: https://www.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/

For more information on the climate and weather patterns in Vietnam (and to check out current weather in specific regions and cities) visit http://www.worldweatherserver.com

Dong (VND) is the currency in Vietnam and the preferred form of payment. To check the current rate of exchange, visit https://www.xe.com/currencyconverter/

Cash

Please do not bring “old” bills; U.S. Dollars must be clean and untattered. You'll get the best exchange rate with a crisp, new $100 bill. Call your bank about a week beforehand to inform them you need new bills. 

Most if not all of the hotels will have currency exchange services on-site. Since most of your significant expenses will have been paid before your travel, the only cash you will need to have with you will be for some of your daily meals, souvenir shopping, and miscellaneous items. We recommend at least $25/day per person for meals.

Credit Cards & Traveler's Checks

Many hotels, larger businesses and larger restaurants now accept major credit cards (except Discover). You can also use your credit card to obtain cash from an ATM or a reputable currency exchanger depending upon your personal bank’s international services. 

Please call your credit card companies before you travel to notify them that you are traveling and the dates you will be gone. If you do not do this, your card will be declined and/or blocked from use. When you use credit cards for purchases in Vietnam, it is standard for them to add at least a 3% fee. Traveler's checks are NOT accepted in Vietnam 

Tipping

Tipping usually is not expected from locals in Vietnam but it is becoming common in the tourist areas and will be greatly appreciated. 

Some hotels and restaurants now add a 10-15% gratuity (which should be indicated on your bill) but elsewhere, it's up to you. It's a good idea to tip guides, drivers, and anyone else that has provided good service. A tip of VND 50,000 – VND 100,000 (USD 2 – USD 5) a day is usually good.

Fixed Price vs. Bartering

Bartering is very much a part of the Vietnamese way of life. Most vendors expect you to barter with them on the price of an item. Many of the modern shops or more expensive shops will now sell with fixed prices. If you are unsure of the pricing structure, ask me or one of our staff. 

Generally, offering approximately 60% of the "suggested" price when bartering is acceptable. Expect the vendor to counter-offer much higher, and then you can offer back something around 70% to 80% of the starting value, which will probably be accepted. It can be stressful or fun, depending on your comfort level or how much you really want a particular item. 

Most tourists are considered wealthy, therefore prices quoted to you may be higher than they would be for a local. If you find a more expensive item you've just got to have, feel free to ask me or a staff member to barter on your behalf. Generally, you will get a better price that way.

Depending upon your service provider in the U.S. you will be able to use your mobile phone; however, it may be quite expensive. Vietnamese SIM cards and data SIM cards can be purchased for your UNLOCKED mobile phone or iPad if required. 

We recommend that those with “smart phones” turn off their data roaming and turn on their Wi-Fi as soon as they enter Vietnam. Every airport/hotel/restaurant will be equipped with free Wi-Fi. 

There are also some free apps you can download to communicate via voice or text for FREE – Facebook Messenger, Skype, WhatsApp, Viber are very popular and easy to use. Download and practice using BEFORE you leave.

Vietnam is generally a safe destination, with petty theft being the most common concern. We recommend keeping valuables secure, carrying copies of important documents, and avoiding flashy jewelry.

Before traveling, consult your healthcare provider about recommended vaccinations, medications, and health precautions. Drink bottled water, eat freshly prepared foods, and ease into local cuisine during your first few days. If you become ill during your trip, please contact our staff immediately. Major cities throughout Vietnam have international clinics and hospitals.

Masks are commonly worn in Vietnam and may be required in certain settings, such as public transportation or healthcare facilities.

Yes, a portion of every participant fee, meaning all of the profit  is a donation to support Catalyst Foundation and their mission to support communities in rural Vietnam to fight human trafficking.