Travel Guide

About Vietnam

Vietnam remains one of Southeast Asia’s most captivating destinations, drawing travelers with its lush green mountains, bustling cities, and golden-sand beaches. As of 2025, Vietnam continues to balance rapid modernization in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City with a strong connection to its cultural roots. Ancient traditions, colonial landmarks, and rich heritage still thrive, making every corner of the country a journey through time.

You’ll find centuries-old Buddhist temples sitting beside shimmering skyscrapers, and locals still celebrate vibrant festivals that have been passed down for generations. Vietnam’s beaches now host a growing number of luxury resorts and fine dining experiences, perfect for romantic escapes. Meanwhile, the stunning terraced hills in regions like Sapa remain a haven for hikers and adventure-seekers.

Whether you’re interested in exploring the historical depths of Hanoi, enjoying a laid-back beach retreat in Da Nang or Phu Quoc, or immersing yourself in the energetic life of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam offers something for every type of traveler.

Quick Facts about Vietnam (Updated 2025)

• Population: Approx. 100 million
• Capital City: Hanoi – 8.5 million people
• Major Cities: Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Hue, Can Tho
• Ethnic Groups: 54 officially recognized ethnic minorities
• Official Language: Vietnamese
• Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
• Time Zone: GMT +7
• Country Code: +84

From ancient temples to high-end resorts, Vietnam in 2025 continues to evolve while staying grounded in its identity. It’s not just a place to visit—it’s a country to experience.

Got Questions about Travelling in Vietnam?

Great, cause we’ve got the answers! Check here as we’ve put together some commonly asked questions (FAQ) to give you more information about “Vietnam Travel” and the cover we offer. If you don’t find the question and answer you’re looking for here, please don’t hesitate to contact us! 

Passports & Visas

Passports should be valid for six months from the date of entry into Vietnam. Friends Travel Vietnam recommend you make a photocopy of your passport & visa and keep it somewhere separate, or scan it and keep it in an accessible email account.

Visitors must have a visa before entering Vietnam, and a visa on arrival can only be obtained with a letter of approval. A visa on arrival is granted to many nationalities for stays 15 days or less. Friends Travel Vietnam can arrange this for you, click here for more info. Otherwise, you must apply online or at the embassy for all 30-90 day single or multiple entry visas.

Phones & Internet Services

The Vietnamese postal service is reliable and there are also courier services widely available. Do not put postcards into letter boxes; give them to your hotel to post or go to a post office or it's possible to give them to us at our office in Hanoi and we love to take care about it.

Telephone connections to the rest of the world are widely available, however they aren’t cheap. A Vietnamese SIM card is a less expensive way of calling other countries. However, your phone will need to be unlocked in order for it to work. 200,000VND ($10) worth of phone credit can last for up to 45 minutes to the UK.

Internet access is available in all major hotels and WiFi can be found in most cafes in developed areas.

Index Vietnam Information