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How to Travel Through Vietnam

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By eHow Contributing Writer
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Due to the long, narrow shape of Vietnam, travel through the country can be quite easy and efficient. Vietnam offers many affordable options when it comes to travel, including rail, tour buses and even private taxis and chauffeurs.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  1. Step 1

    Travel through Vietnam by taking a plane flight between Hanoi in the north and Ho Chi Minh City in the south. Since more than a thousand miles separate the two main cities within Vietnam, you should take advantage of the relatively affordable fares offered by the national Vietnamese airlines, using the two cities as a hubs for the rest of your travel itinerary. In fact, many travel packages to Vietnam include an option to fly into one city and fly out of the other.

  2. Step 2

    Use the national rail system to travel between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, and to visit other areas of Vietnam as well. The rail system is relatively modern and efficient, and is one of the more popular ways to travel through the country. The rail system can also take you into China if that is part of your travel plans.

  3. Step 3

    Climb aboard a bus in order to travel through Vietnam, especially if you want to visit the smaller villages and rural areas at a more leisurely pace. This is perhaps the most affordable way to travel through the country, and is the preferred method for most Vietnamese. Remember to choose one of the open tour buses that can be chartered at most traveler's cafes, since the government buses can be uncomfortable and crowded.

  4. Step 4

    Rent a private driver or taxicab if you have a more specific travel itinerary to follow. Drivers can be hired for the entire day for a relatively low rate. Remember to ask your hotel for references before you hire just any driver off the street.

  5. Step 5

    Take a ride in some of the more traditional methods of Vietnamese travel when you just want to get around town, or travel between local villages. Rickshaws are a common site throughout the major cities, as are bicycles and motorbikes with attached coaches or sidecars. Note that there is some concern about safety when using these travel methods, however, since traffic accidents are relatively common.

Tips & Warnings
  • Always keep your passport with you whenever you travel through Vietnam, even if it is a relatively short trip between villages. As a Westerner, it will be hard for you to blend in, and local authorities may single you out for inspection of your travel documents.
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