The New 'Easy Visa' Era
Let’s get the best part out of the way first. While not technically “visa-free” in the way some neighbouring countries are, Vietnam’s new e-visa policy for Indian citizens is a complete game-changer. As of August 2023, Indians can apply online for a 90-day,
multiple-entry tourist visa. The process is straightforward, done entirely online before you travel, and typically approved within a few working days. This removes the uncertainty and paperwork that previously made planning a trip a hassle. This new accessibility, coupled with direct flights from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata via airlines like VietJet Air and IndiGo, has opened the floodgates. The “visa-free vibe” is real: planning a trip to Vietnam now feels as easy as booking a domestic holiday.
Ha Long Bay: Cruise Through Karsts
No trip to Vietnam is complete without witnessing the jaw-dropping beauty of Ha Long Bay. Picture thousands of limestone karsts and islets rising from emerald-green waters. The best way to experience this UNESCO World Heritage Site is on an overnight cruise. Most itineraries include activities like kayaking through hidden lagoons, exploring ancient caves like Thien Cung (Heavenly Palace Cave), and visiting floating fishing villages. Waking up to the serene, misty landscape of the bay is an unforgettable experience. It’s the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, and a must-do for any first-time visitor looking for that iconic postcard shot.
Hanoi vs. Ho Chi Minh City
Vietnam’s two largest cities offer vastly different experiences. In the north, Hanoi, the capital, is a city of lakes, ancient temples, and French-colonial charm. Get lost in the chaotic yet captivating 36 streets of the Old Quarter, sip on egg coffee, and watch a traditional water puppet show. In the south, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) is a dynamic, high-energy metropolis. It’s a city that never sleeps, with rooftop bars, bustling markets like Ben Thanh, and poignant historical sites like the War Remnants Museum and the Cu Chi Tunnels. You don’t have to choose; a well-planned trip can easily include both, offering a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam's past and its fast-moving present.
Hoi An: Lanterns and Legacy
If there’s one place that captures the magic of Vietnam, it’s Hoi An. This former port town is another UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its beautifully preserved ancient town. By day, you can explore the narrow canals, visit centuries-old merchant houses, and get custom-made clothes at incredibly affordable prices from one of the hundreds of skilled tailors. But it’s at night that Hoi An truly comes alive. The entire town is illuminated by thousands of colourful silk lanterns, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere. Take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River and release a floating candle for good luck – it’s a moment of pure magic that will stay with you long after you leave.
Da Nang & Phu Quoc: Beach Bliss
For those seeking sun, sand, and sea, Vietnam delivers in spades. Da Nang is a coastal city with long, sandy beaches and a modern vibe. It’s also the perfect base to visit the famous Golden Bridge, held up by two giant stone hands on the Ba Na Hills. Further south lies Phu Quoc, an island paradise in the Gulf of Thailand. Known for its pristine white-sand beaches, calm waters, and luxury resorts, it’s the ideal spot to unwind. Whether you want to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, visit a pepper plantation, or simply relax with a coconut by the shore, Phu Quoc offers a perfect tropical escape to round out your Vietnamese adventure.
Your Vietnam Cheat Sheet
A few practical tips to make your trip seamless. The currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND); roughly ₹1 gets you around 300 VND, so you’ll be a millionaire! The Grab app (Southeast Asia’s Uber) is your best friend for affordable transport and food delivery. For foodies, don’t miss Pho (noodle soup) and Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich). Vegetarian and vegan options are increasingly common in tourist areas, especially Buddhist-inspired mock-meat dishes. Pick up a local SIM card at the airport for cheap and reliable data. Most importantly, be prepared to bargain with a smile at local markets—it’s all part of the fun.
