Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ

Got a question for Oriental Destination Travel?

01How do I book and make payment?

To confirm your reservations, a non-refundable deposit of 30% of the total package price is required at the time of booking. The remaining balance must be paid no later than 15 days prior to departure.

Failure to make the final payment by the due date may result in cancellation of the booking at the sole discretion of OD Travel, with no refund of any payments already made.

02What form of payment do you accept?

We accept the following forms of payment:

Cash
Telegraphic Transfer (TT) / SWIFT
Major Credit Cards (Visa, MasterCard)
Traveler’s Cheques (subject to acceptance)

Please note:

Bank fees apply to all non-cash payments and are the responsibility of the Client/Agent.
Where credit facilities have been pre-approved, payment must be settled via telegraphic or SWIFT transfer to the designated OD Travel bank account.
Payments must be received in full, net of any bank charges.

03Will you contact me in case there is a problem?

Yes, absolutely. If there is any issue with your payment or booking details, we will promptly contact you using the telephone number or email address provided in your reservation. Our team is committed to ensuring clear communication and a smooth travel experience.

04Can I amend my booking after the reservation is made?

Yes, amendments can be made after your reservation is confirmed. However, please note the following charges:

- A service fee of USD 25 applies to any changes made after confirmation.
- Once travel documents are issued, a USD 50 fee per change will be charged, including for the reissuance of vouchers.
Additional fees apply for the reissuance of airline tickets.

Changes to travel dates may result in price differences based on availability, day of travel, and airline class of service.
Please note: Amendment fees are in addition to any applicable cancellation charges, and all prices are subject to change without prior notice.

05Can I cancel my booking?

Yes, we understand that unexpected situations can arise, and you may need to postpone or cancel your trip. OD Travel offers a flexible cancellation policy, but please note the following terms:

The initial deposit is non-refundable as stated in our booking conditions.
OD Travel does not charge a separate cancellation fee, but any fees imposed by hotels, airlines, or other service providers will be the responsibility of the Client/Agent.
In the event of a no-show, no refund will be provided.
All cancellations must be made in writing and received by OD Travel to be valid.
No refunds or exchanges will be made for any unused services included in the tour (such as accommodation, meals, transportation, or sightseeing) once the tour has begun.

We recommend that clients consider purchasing travel insurance to cover any unexpected changes or cancellations.

06Vietnam Visa Information

Vietnam Visa Exemption (Updated August 2023)

Travelers from the following countries do not require a visa to enter Vietnam for tourism purposes:

90 Days Visa Exemption

Chile
Panama

45 Days Visa Exemption

Belarus
South Korea
Japan
Germany
Denmark
Norway
Russia
France
Finland
Spain
Sweden
Italy
United Kingdom (excluding British Overseas Citizens)

30 Days Visa Exemption

Cambodia
Indonesia
Kyrgyzstan
Laos
Malaysia
Singapore
Thailand

21 Days Visa Exemption

Philippines

14 Days Visa Exemption

Brunei
Myanmar

Vietnam E-Visa

As of August 15, 2023, Vietnam offers e-visas to all nationalities.

Requirements:

Passport valid for at least 6 months with 2 blank pages
One recent digital passport photo with a white background (no glasses)
Non-refundable fee: USD 25 (single entry) or USD 50 (multiple entry)

Processing Time:

Typically 3 working days
May take longer during public holidays or peak periods, so early application is advised

Important Notes:

E-visa is valid for up to 90 days, depending on your request
E-visa is valid only at the specified port of entry; changes require a new visa
Each traveler must submit an individual application (no group applications)
Apply online at the official government website:
👉 https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn

Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA)

Visa on Arrival is available for selected nationalities only. Always check with your nearest Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate for eligibility before your trip.

How It Works:

Send us your passport details (via email, Excel file, or passport scan)
We submit your visa application to the Vietnam Immigration Department
Receive your Visa Approval Letter from us via email
Print and present the Approval Letter at the airport upon arrival in Vietnam

At the Airport:

Present the Visa Approval Letter, completed visa application form, passport, and 2 passport photos
Pay the stamping fee in cash (USD only) — credit cards are not accepted
Collect your visa at the VOA counter

Important Reminders:

Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from entry date
You must specify your expected arrival date (you can arrive after the approved date, but not before)
Visa service is non-cancelable and non-refundable, and full payment is required in advance

07Best time to travel to Vietnam

There is no single “best” time to visit Vietnam—only the best time to visit based on your travel goals. Whether you’re chasing sunshine, immersing yourself in local festivals, trekking through mountains, or lounging on a quiet beach, Vietnam has something special to offer every month of the year.

When to go – Based on Region and Travel Interest

Vietnam is a country of three distinct regions—the North, the Centre, and the South—each with its own unique climate. As a result, the best time to visit largely depends on where you’re headed and what you want to experience.

Regional Weather Overview

Northern Vietnam (from the Chinese border to Hue) includes the capital Hanoi, the breathtaking mountains of Sapa, and the iconic Halong Bay. Winters (December to February) can be cold, especially in the highlands, while summers (May to August) are hot and humid.
Central Vietnam (from Hue to Nha Trang) features cultural gems like Hue and Hoi An, as well as beach cities like Danang. This region is best visited from February to August, though it can experience heavy rain and storms from September to November.
Southern Vietnam (including Ho Chi Minh City, Phan Thiet, Mui Ne, Phu Quoc, and the Mekong Delta) enjoys a tropical climate year-round. The dry season runs from November to April, making it ideal for travel.

These diverse climates mean you can find good weather somewhere in Vietnam at any time of year—just choose your region wisely.

Best Time for a Vietnam Beach Holiday

If your focus is on sun and sand, Vietnam offers year-round beach options across its long coastline. Here’s a breakdown of the beach regions:

Central Coast (Hue, Danang, Hoi An): Best from March to June. July and August can be hotter and more humid, with occasional rain.
South-Central Coast (Nha Trang, Quy Nhon): Ideal from January to September, though May to September sees higher humidity.
Southern Beaches (Phan Thiet, Mui Ne, Vung Tau, Ho Tram): Best from November to April, when the weather is dry, sunny, and perfect for relaxing by the sea.
Islands (Phu Quoc and Con Dao): The best time to visit these island paradises is from November to April, with crystal-clear waters and beautiful coastal landscapes.

Vietnam’s Two Main Travel Seasons

High Season (October to April): This is the most popular time to visit. It coincides with the dry season in the South and cooler, more comfortable weather in the North and Centre. Travelers can enjoy good conditions across most of the country.
Low/Green Season (May to September): Increasingly favored by savvy travelers, this season offers lower prices, fewer crowds, and lush, vibrant landscapes. With careful planning and regional knowledge, you can still enjoy excellent weather—especially in places like Nha Trang or Sapa during their peak months.

Travel Based on Interest and Seasonal Experiences

Vietnam isn’t just about chasing sunshine—it’s about timing your trip based on what you want to see and experience.

For Rice Terraces: Visit Northern Vietnam (Sapa, Mu Cang Chai, etc.) from June to September to see the stunning green and golden rice terraces in full glory.
For Cultural Events:
- Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year): Late January or February – a truly magical time with festivals and family gatherings.
- Hue Festival: Usually in April, showcasing traditional music, art, and cultural performances in the former imperial capital.
And so much More …..

To conclude, there’s no single “best” time to visit Vietnam—because every month unveils a different facet of its timeless beauty. Whether you’re wandering through thousand-year-old temples in Hanoi, exploring imperial heritage in Hue, trekking through mist-covered mountains of Sapa, or relaxing on the pristine beaches of Phu Quoc, Vietnam offers a journey for every soul, in every season.

Home to 54 ethnic groups and a rich tapestry of traditions, Vietnam invites you to witness authentic cultural encounters—from local markets in the highlands to incense villages and ancient pagodas. Its dramatic landscapes—terraced rice fields, emerald bays, and tropical forests—are nature’s masterpiece, ready to be explored.

Vietnam also stands out for its modern tourism infrastructure, safe travel environment, excellent healthcare services, and ever-growing network of hotels and resorts, from charming homestays to world-class luxury. Friendly locals, flavorful cuisine, and a deep sense of heritage await wherever you go.

So, whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, cultural immersion, or wellness retreats—Vietnam welcomes you. Come any time of the year, follow your travel passion, and let Vietnam captivate your heart—one unforgettable experience at a time.

08Travel information

HEALTH REQUIREMENTS
No actual vaccinations are officially required. Noted in our Vietnam travel tips, travelers are advised to check with their doctor or travel immunization clinic regarding the advisability of inoculation against typhoid, tetanus, hepatitis A & B and malaria. It is recommended that all travelers take out comprehensive Personal Travel Insurance to cover personal belongings, or in case of accident or illness, etc.

ELECTRICITY
The usual voltage is 220V, 50Hz. The two-pin (ungrounded) plug is more popular than the three-pin one. If you have any devices needing a special outlet, please bring its adapter kit. The best investment is a universal AC adapter, which enables you to plug it into any outlet without damaging your appliances.

CURRENCY, MONEY EXCHANGE & ATM
The local currency is the Dong (abbreviated “d” or VND). Money, particularly US dollars can be exchanged at banks, hotels, and authorized money exchangers. Most retailers do not accept checks. But Visa, Master & JCB cards are widely accepted. Some merchants also accept AMEX. A 3% bank charge on transactions (4% for AMEX) is pretty common, due to bank policies. ATMs are very popular in most tourist destinations.

PACKING LIST
Be a smart traveler. Before heading overseas, make a list of things to bring. You are recommended to “travel light” as much as possible. Please refer to the weather section of the website to identify what you should pack (sunblock, appropriate clothes, hat, mosquito repellant etc.)

SAFETY
Ostentatious displays of money, jewelry, luggage, and dress can encourage the wrong type of attention. When travelling, be aware of where your luggage is at all times- particularly your hand bag, camera, etc. Do not leave them unattended or hanging on the back of chairs in restaurants. Petty theft is also common on crowded trains, buses, and at supermarkets.

09Etiquette- one of the important part of Vietnam travel tips

Understanding local customs and social norms is an important part of making your journey to Vietnam enjoyable, respectful, and enriching. Vietnamese society is a unique blend of traditional values and modern influences, and a little cultural sensitivity goes a long way.

✅ Dress Modestly in Rural & Sacred Spaces: While big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City embrace modern fashion, rural areas and religious sites (temples, pagodas, churches) are more conservative. Out of respect, dress modestly—cover shoulders and knees, especially when visiting temples, museums, or cultural heritage sites.

🚫 Mind Your Gestures: Avoid pointing at people or objects with your index finger—it’s considered rude. Instead, gesture with your whole hand or nod in the direction. Refrain from touching people, especially on the head, as the head is considered the most sacred part of the body in Vietnamese culture.

Respect for Elders – Vietnamese culture places high value on respect for the elderly. Use a gentle tone when speaking, and consider offering assistance (e.g., helping them cross the street). A simple bow or nod shows appreciation and respect.

📸 Always Ask Before Taking Photos: While many locals are friendly and open, it’s polite to ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially in ethnic minority villages or rural communities. A smile and simple gesture will usually do the trick.

Remove Shoes When Entering Homes – When invited into a local home, always remove your shoes before entering. This applies to many traditional guesthouses and temples as well.

🙏 Use Both Hands When Giving or Receiving – When offering or receiving something—especially from elders or in formal settings—it’s courteous to use both hands, or at least support your right hand with your left.

Politeness and Patience Go a Long Way – Vietnamese people value humility and politeness. Raising your voice or showing frustration in public is considered disrespectful. Remaining calm, smiling, and being patient will often get you further than demanding or loud behavior.

10Some Special Notes When Traveling to Vietnam

TIME ZONE & WORKING HOUR
Local time is GMT + 7 hours. Most government offices are open from 8:00 / 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 / 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, but are closed from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. for lunch. Banks are closed after 4:00 p.m. Some foreign companies or private enterprises are open Saturday mornings. Most shops and department stores are open every day until 8.00 or 9.00 p.m.

MUSEUMS OPENING TIME
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is open every morning (except for Mondays & Fridays) and is closed in the afternoon and during the months of October and November for maintenance. Most museums and mausoleums are closed on Mondays except for the War Museum in Ho Chi Minh City (now called the Museum of Vietnamese Revolutionary History) and the Ho Chi Minh Trails Museum which is closed on Mondays and Fridays. The Fine Arts Museum is open to the public every day from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

LANGUAGE
Vietnamese is the official language of Vietnam. English is widely used in business. Other popular languages include French, German, Spanish, Italian, Chinese, Japanese, Thai and Russian.

INTERNET
You can access the internet at hotels, cyber cafés & Internet/Computer Service Centers. ADSL technology is widely used in major cities. Also, WIFI internet is available at some cyber cafés, restaurants, and most hotels in major tourist destinations.
Free WIFI is also available in some international airports.

POST SERVICES
A regular international postal service is available. Express Mail Service (EMS) is available to more than 50 countries worldwide with a delivery time of 2 to 10 days.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS
Vietnam has high international telephone charges. It is important to check the exact amount with the hotel before making a call, as hotel surcharges are often imposed. VOIP calls help reduce call charges. Pre-paid internet & mobile cards can be bought in the major cities so if your phone is unlocked, this solution is cheap (around USD5) and will allow you to call in case of emergency, call your driver, your hotel and even home if you need! Service providers for mobile phone networks are GSM of Vinaphone, Mobile Phone and Viettel, while CDMA are EVN Telecom and S-Phone, HT Mobile etc.
Also, buying a phone in Vietnam is really cheap and you can get a basic phone for USD15, with a prepaid card.

DOMESTIC FLIGHTS & AIRPORT TAXES
Flight times may vary from day to day. Schedules are subject to change without prior notice. You should allow an hour at the airport for the check-in process prior to your flight departure. Baggage allowance is 20kg per person in economy class. Hand luggage should not weigh more than 7kg. You are recommended to reconfirm your intention to travel at least 24 hours prior to departure from all your points on your itinerary, even if you have a confirmed reservation.

Airport departure tax for domestic and international flights is included in the airfare issued.

11Food and Drinks – A Culinary Journey through Vietnam

Vietnamese cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and healthy dishes. A perfect blend of Chinese, French, and indigenous influences, the food is light yet packed with flavor, never too oily or spicy. Rice and noodles are at the heart of the Vietnamese diet, while bread plays a lesser role compared to other cuisines. Whether you’re dining in bustling cities or charming rural villages, you’ll discover a variety of dishes that will delight your taste buds.

Must-Try Vietnamese Dishes:

Pho: A fragrant and flavorful noodle soup, often served with beef or chicken.
Cha Cuon: Delicious crispy spring rolls that make for a perfect snack or appetizer.
Goi Cuon: Fresh, healthy spring rolls filled with shrimp, herbs, and rice noodles—perfect for a light meal.
Fish and Rice in Earthen Pots: A rich, aromatic dish that combines rice with tender fish, slow-cooked to perfection.

Tropical Fruits You Can’t Miss:

Vietnam’s tropical fruits are a treat! From the sweet, tangy mangosteen to the vibrant dragon fruit and the juicy rambutan, you’ll find a bounty of fruit that’s not only delicious but also available all year round.

Vietnamese Drinks:

Coffee: Vietnam’s coffee culture is world-renowned. Strong, rich, and often served iced, Vietnamese coffee is an experience in itself. Don’t miss the signature egg coffee, a sweet and creamy treat you won’t find anywhere else.
Draft Beer: Light and refreshing, Vietnamese beer is perfect for enjoying in the warm weather.

Drink with Care:

While the coffee and draft beer are delicious, tap water is not advisable to drink. Bottled water is readily available at affordable prices, and you’ll find that most hotels and restaurants serve ice that’s been prepared hygienically. However, if you’re enjoying a meal at a local market or on the street, it’s better to skip the ice to stay on the safe side.

12Shopping and Bargaining - A Shopper's Paradise in Vietnam

Shopping in Vietnam is a vibrant and exhilarating experience, where the joy of discovery meets the thrill of a good bargain. Whether you’re exploring upscale malls or wandering through colorful street markets, Vietnam offers an incredible variety of goods that cater to every taste and budget. From high-end shopping centers and supermarkets to bustling open-air markets, boutiques, and street stalls, you’re sure to find something unique and unforgettable.

What to Shop for in Vietnam:

Handicrafts: Exquisite, hand-made items such as intricate lacquerware, silk scarves, and embroidered goods make for perfect souvenirs or gifts.
War Souvenirs & Antiques: For history buffs, Vietnam offers fascinating war memorabilia and antique items that tell the story of the country’s past.
Art & Gems: The local art scene is flourishing, with galleries showcasing stunning works by talented Vietnamese artists. Jewelry made from jade and other gems is also a popular find.

Mastering the Art of Bargaining:

Bargaining is part of the fun in Vietnam! While prices might initially be higher for tourists, don’t be afraid to negotiate. Vendors expect it, and with a friendly smile and a bit of patience, you’ll often secure a great deal. Do some research before your trip to get a rough idea of prices, so you can better gauge a fair offer. Remember, it’s all about the experience and the fun of finding a hidden gem at a great price!

Dealing with Persistent Vendors:

If you’re being followed by street vendors or find yourself in a situation where you’re not interested in purchasing, a firm but polite “No, thank you” usually does the trick. Continue walking without hesitation, as lingering might encourage further engagement. A friendly but firm stance will keep your shopping experience smooth and stress-free.