UK
Culture, Coastlines & Culinary Delights
Vietnam is a land of contrasts - from misty mountains and ancient temples to buzzing cities and serene beaches. It’s a favourite for UK travellers seeking adventure, history, and unforgettable food.
Air Travel
Flights from London to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City take around 11–13 hours. No direct flights currently, but excellent one-stop options via Middle Eastern and Southeast Asian hubs.
Airlines
Vietnam Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Thai Airways offer smooth connections. Budget carriers like VietJet and Bamboo Airways operate domestically.
Cheap flights to Vietnam
Vietnam
Culture, Coastlines & Culinary Delights
Landmark
Travel Season
- North: March–May and September–November for mild weather
- South: December–April is dry and sunny
- Central: February–August is best for beach towns like Da Nang and Hoi An
Currency & Money Tips
- Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
- 1 GBP ˜ 30,000 VND (check live rates)
- Cash is preferred, especially in markets and rural areas
- ATMs are widely available; cards accepted in hotels and malls
Connectivity
- Free Wi-Fi in cafes, hotels, and airports
- Local SIM cards (Viettel, Mobifone, Vinaphone) are cheap and reliable
- Pocket Wi-Fi available for groups
Getting Around
- Domestic flights for long distances
- Trains offer scenic routes (e.g. Hanoi to Hue)
- Buses and sleeper coaches for budget travel
- Ride-hailing apps: Grab and Be
- Motorbike rentals for the adventurous
Time Zone
- Indochina Time (ICT) – GMT+7
Etiquette & Culture
- Remove shoes before entering homes and temples
- Dress modestly in religious sites
- Bargaining is common in markets
- Tipping is appreciated but not expected
Top Destinations
- Hanoi: Old Quarter charm and street food
- Ho Chi Minh City: Modern buzz and colonial history
- Hoi An: Ancient town and beach combo
- Sapa: Mountain trekking and ethnic villages
- Phu Quoc: Island paradise with luxury resorts
- Da Nang: Coastal city with Marble Mountains
fastfood Food & Drink
- Must-try: Pho, Banh Mi, Bun Cha, Goi Cuon (spring rolls), Egg Coffee
- Street food is safe and delicious - follow the crowds
- Tap water isn’t safe to drink - stick to bottled
personal_bag What to Pack
- Lightweight clothing and rain jacket
- Modest attire for temples
- Power adapter (Type A/C plugs)
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
Best Time to Visit
- March–May: Spring blossoms and mild weather
- September–November: Autumn colours and fewer crowds
- December–April: Best for southern beaches
health_and_safety Safety & Health
- Vietnam is generally safe; watch for pickpockets in busy areas
- Emergency numbers: 113 (police), 115 (ambulance)
- Travel insurance is recommended
- Vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus, and routine UK jabs
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Hanoi
Book cheap flights from London, Manchester, Birmingham & more UK airports to Hanoi. Compare airlines, find direct flights, and discover the best time to travel from the UK to Hanoi.