MOST IMPORTANT
Crossing the Street: There are more motorbikes than people in Hanoi.  Similar numbers exist in Ho Chi Minh City.  Conversely, there are about as many stoplights and street signs as there are hot dog stands.  Somehow the system works and the city rarely sees bad traffic.  However, as a walking pedestrian, the constant flow of traffic may seem a little daunting especially when trying to get from one side of the road to another. 

Here’s the trick: Pick a spot on the other side of the road and aim for it, keep your eyes on that spot and start walking.  Occasionally, look both ways to make sure a semi-truck isn’t barreling towards you, but otherwise just keep walking at a steady pace and traffic will weave around.  Don’t hesitate and try to dodge traffic or else you’ll create a disaster.  Let them dodge you and everything will be fine. Of course this is our best suggestion based on our experience, but please take every precaution necessary to keep yourself safe.  

CURRENCY
Vietnamese currency is Dong (VND). Foreign currencies can be exchanged at the bank, exchange bureaus or hotel reception desks. Travelers' checks and most types of credit cards are accepted in major cities. There is usually a 3%-5% processing charge for credit card advances.  We recommend you exchange cash prior to departing major cities.

TIME
Time zone: GMT/UTC + 7 (the same zone with Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia)
Typical work days are Monday to Friday.
Office hours: Morning: 07h30 - 12h00; Afternoon: 13h00 - 16h30.
Museums are usually closed on Monday but you can visit temples and pagodas every day. Most restaurants and shops operate from 08h00 till 22h00.

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
01 January: New Year's Day
Late January to mid-February: Vietnamese Lunar New Year (04 days off).
30 April: Re-unification Day
01 May: International Workers' Day.
02 September: National Day

INTERNET AND MOBILE PHONES
Email & Internet:

E-mail and Internet services are available in most hotels and post offices in Vietnam. There is an abundance of small internet cafes in most major cities.

Mobile phone:

In Vietnam you will be able to use your mobile phone as long as it is programmed for roaming internationally. This can be expensive. You can also rent a mobile phone, which may be easier and less costly than roaming charges.   A pre-paid phone card is also an option (this service is available at some hotels or at a mobile phone service center on the street).

FOOD & DRINK
There is a wide range of dishes in Vietnam, included the very popular nem (spring rolls) and pho (Vietnamese noodle soup). They are eaten together with rice or noodles. Vegetarian foods, dietary dishes and western menus are also available at some restaurants. A rich variety of tropical fruits is on hand year round, however, it will vary depending upon the season.
Imported beers and alcohols are available in most hotels, restaurants and shops. There are many Vietnamese brands or country wines made from rice. If you prefer to drink water, please use bottled mineral water (i.e. Aquafina or Joy), which has an unbroken seal. Do not ingest tap water.  Tap water that has been boiled is not the best choice for a traveller. 

Flight Info 
Please visit the following link: Vietnam Airlines Flight Schedules 

Vietnam Railway Schedules
Please visit the following link: Vietnam Railway Schedules

CAR RENTAL
We don’t rent cars ourselves (we prefer buzzing around on motorbikes) and we haven't driven behind the wheel in Vietnam yet, but if you really need a vehicle, we can direct you to a rental agent that will provide a driver or the vehicle if you have and international driver's license.

Vietnam car rentals based in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi rents monthly (long term) and daily/hourly rentals are available as well. All cars rented are usually within 5 years of issued date. The price is usually inclusive of driver's salary and fuel/ gas. Drivers are English speaking and are willing to work on the weekends. Bus service is available for tourist groups, company outings, and company staff.

Car monthly rental in Saigon (HoChiMinh city), Vietnam (US$/month)

Operating Hours: 7:30am - 5:30pm
Operating days per month: 26days
Km limit  per month: 2,600km Note:
- The prices are subject to change without prior notice.
- The above rates exclude road fee/ toll, but include driver's salary & fuel.