Vietnam

Generally, the best time of year to visit Vietnam is December through February, when it tends to be pleasant and dry. However, bear in mind that the weather varies significantly throughout the country, with southern areas experiencing a tropical climate. Hanoi in the north tends to be much colder.

If your family loves to have new experiences together, Vietnam could be a perfect place for a family adventure holiday. There are many family-friendly activities and destinations around the country, including white sand beaches, action-packed cities, and historic sites.

All travelers entering Vietnam must have a valid passport and either a visa or pre-approval for a visa. The passport must be at least six months before the date of expiration or visitors will be denied entry. There must also be at least one blank page for a travel stamp.

Please note that if you are entering Vietnam on a cruise from Cambodia, you will need to have your visa stamped in your passport before embarkation. Otherwise, for most nationalities an e-Visa or visa on arrival are available.

Before you travel to Vietnam, you should be vaccinated against hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and Japanese encephalitis. You should also get a rabies shot, since Vietnam is considered a high-risk country. Depending on where you will travel, you may also like to take malaria pills.

The city of Hoi An is an unmissable destination and worthy addition to any Vietnam vacation. A true highlight of the so-called classic Vietnam route, this ancient city is a hubbub of beautiful architecture, delicious food, and fascinating historic sites. It also has one of Vietnam’s best beaches.

The cuisine in Vietnam is a fascinating adventure for Westerners, who may not have tried authentic Vietnamese food before. The cities are a great place to begin your culinary education, with dozens of open-air markets and high-end restaurants from which to sample and savor the local fare.