Vietnam

Vietnam presents visitors with best attractions from sheer cliffs that will challenge even the best rock climber to vibrant history and culture that leave cultural travelers wanting more.

Geography

Vietnam is an “S” shaped country that is located in Southeastern Asia extremity of the Indochinese peninsula. Vietnam’s landscape is mainly covered by tropical lowlands, hills, and heavily forested highlands. Vietnam shares a border with Gulf of Thailand, Gulf of Tonkin, and South China Sea, alongside China, Laos, and Cambodia. Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam.

Climate

The climate in Vietnam varies greatly from north to south. Vietnam’s weather is strongly influenced by two monsoons. The winter monsoon (between October and March) comes from the northeast and it brings wet cold winter to the north and dry and warm temperatures to the south. The southwestern monsoon (between April to October) bring in warm, humid weather to the whole country except for those areas in the valleys. The best time to travel is between seasons. Try April, May or October.

Languages

Vietnamese is the official language but English is heavily favored as a second language.

Religion

The three major religions in Vietnam are Taoism, Mahayana Buddhism and Confucianism. Other prevalent religions in Vietnam are Christianity (Catholicism and Protestantism), Islam, Caodaism and the Hoa Hao sect.

Cultures & Festivals

Vietnam’s culture is very unique in a way that it is shaped by thousands of years of colonization especially the Chinese. The best time to view the colorful Vietnamese festivals is during the months of January and February where there are numerous festivals to be seen like the Lunar New Year (TET).

Currency

The dong (VND) is Vietnam’s official currency. Foreign currencies and tourist cheques can be exchanged into Vietnamese Dong at banks or foreign exchange agencies. Vietnamese dong can also be changed into foreign currencies at the airport. It is good to note that credit cards are accepted in cities and big tourist centers.