After the COVID pandemic, you’ll likely be eager to get back to traveling as soon as it’s safe. If you’re considering traveling to Vietnam or other nearby areas, there are a few things you should know first. That way, you can make the most out of your time in the country.
Get Your Finances in Order
Before traveling across the globe, you’ll want to spend some time getting your money in order. How will you pay for the trip? If it’s relatively far into the future, you may be able to save up for much of it. But your savings will likely only go so far in covering the trip, which is why you may want to consider a personal loan to invest in experiences. That way, you don’t have to worry about whether your funds will go far enough.
Once you’ve decided how you’ll pay for everything, the next step is to create a plan for spending the funds. You’ll need both the Vietnamese currency and U.S. money. You’ll likely use your U.S. funds for touristy things, such as hotels or booking tours. And if you want to get anything local, such as shopping at markets or going to a restaurant, you’ll need the Vietnamese money. If there is a choice to use one or the other, the Vietnamese currency is often cheaper. When making a purchase, you’ll need to be prepared to barter since it’s a part of the culture. You may ask for a better price or simply tell them what you would like to pay.
Taking Sleeper Buses
If you are planning on traveling between several cities, you may consider taking a sleeper bus. These fun vehicles have seats similar to beds, and they allow you to recline backward, stretching out your legs. You can lay down and get a bit of rest during the trip. They are relatively cost-effective, and many of these buses are relatively clean. Of course, you might not sleep perfectly in one of these, but you don’t have to pay for a hotel, and you can have a more efficient trip since you will not lose time during the night. Still, if you need to get somewhere in a hurry and you are not worried about the budget, you could consider flying instead.
Understanding How to Dress
You don’t have to worry too much about your choice of clothing when you’re in Vietnam. Since the weather tends to be relatively warm, you’ll want to go with lightweight fabrics, and you’ll probably pick things like T-shirts, shorts, or sleeveless tops. However, if you visit any mosques or temples, you’ll need to consider your wardrobe a bit more carefully. Women should cover their shoulders, so bringing a light shawl can be helpful. It’s also best for both men and women to have a pair of loose-fitting pants for these visits. Even if you are not planning on visiting any mosques or temples, you may still want to bring these things when the air conditioning is freezing.
