Getting to Vietnam

To travel from Ireland to Vietnam, you would typically take a flight as there are no direct land routes due to the vast distance and geographical barriers. The approximate distance between Dublin, Ireland, and Hanoi, Vietnam, is around 8,000 kilometers (4,970 miles) in a straight line.

Flight: The most common and practical way to travel is by air. You can book a flight from Dublin Airport (DUB) or other major Irish airports to one of Vietnam’s international airports, such as Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi or Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City. The flight duration can vary depending on layovers and routes but typically takes around 12 to 15 hours with one or more stops.

Remember to check visa requirements, travel advisories, and any COVID-19 related restrictions before your journey, as these can change over time and may affect your travel plans

Vietnam Experiences

Vietnam is a captivating Southeast Asian nation known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Our Tailormade Travel Asian specialists have compiled a list of our highlights and experiences you must see when visiting this beautiful country:

Halong Bay: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Halong Bay boasts thousands of limestone karsts and islets, creating a breathtaking seascape best explored by a traditional junk boat.
Hanoi: The capital city is a blend of old-world charm and modernity. Explore the bustling Old Quarter, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and savor delicious street food.
Hue: The ancient imperial city of Hue offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s royal past. Don’t miss the historic Imperial Citadel and the serene Perfume River.
Hoi An: This picturesque town is renowned for its well-preserved Ancient Town, lantern-lit streets, and tailor shops. It’s a shopper’s paradise and a culinary delight.
Cu Chi Tunnels: Learn about Vietnam’s wartime history by exploring the intricate network of tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War.
Mekong Delta: Explore the “Rice Bowl” of Vietnam with its lush landscapes, floating markets, and traditional villages. A boat trip along the Mekong River is a must.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park: Discover one of the world’s largest cave systems, including the famous Son Doong Cave, and trek through pristine jungles.
Da Nang: Visit the Marble Mountains, the Golden Bridge, and relax on the beautiful beaches along the coast.
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): Explore the vibrant and dynamic southern metropolis, visit the War Remnants Museum, and indulge in the city’s lively street food scene.
Sapa: Trek through terraced rice fields, interact with ethnic minority communities, and enjoy breathtaking mountain vistas in the northern highlands.
Phu Quoc Island: Relax on stunning beaches, go snorkeling, and explore the island’s lush interior.

Cuisine: Vietnam is a food lover’s paradise. Try dishes like pho, banh mi, fresh spring rolls, and indulge in the unique flavors of Vietnamese cuisine.

Vietnam’s diverse offerings cater to every traveler’s taste, whether you seek natural beauty, historical insights, cultural experiences, or culinary adventures. This Southeast Asian gem has something to enchant every visitor.

Getting Around Vietnam

Getting around Vietnam is an integral part of experiencing the country’s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture. Here are some of the best ways to navigate this Southeast Asian gem:

Domestic Flights: Vietnam has a well-connected network of domestic airports, making flying a convenient option for covering long distances. Major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Hue have airports with regular flights connecting them.

Trains: The Vietnamese railway system is an excellent way to see the country’s scenic beauty. The Reunification Express, which runs from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, offers comfortable sleeper trains with various classes.

Buses: Long-distance buses are affordable and widely available, making them a practical choice for budget travelers. Luxury sleeper buses offer more comfort for overnight journeys.

Motorcycles/Scooters: Renting a motorbike or scooter is a popular way to explore cities and the countryside. However, be cautious and ensure you have the necessary licenses and safety gear.

Cyclos and Pedicabs: In cities like Hanoi and Hue, you can experience a unique mode of transport via cyclos or pedicabs. These human-powered vehicles offer a slow, enjoyable way to explore city streets.

Taxis: Taxis are prevalent in urban areas and are relatively inexpensive. Make sure to choose reputable companies, and insist on using the meter to avoid overcharging.

Cyclos and Xe Om: Cyclos are three-wheeled cycle rickshaws, and xe om refers to motorcycle taxis. Both are common in cities and are suitable for short trips.

Boats and Ferries: In places like the Mekong Delta and Halong Bay, boats and ferries are essential for exploring the picturesque waterways and islands.

Cycling: For the adventurous traveler, cycling is an excellent way to explore the countryside and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Many areas offer bike rentals and guided cycling tours.

Walking: In cities and towns, walking is an ideal way to soak in the local atmosphere, explore markets, and discover hidden gems.

Car Rentals: If you’re comfortable driving in Vietnam, renting a car provides flexibility for exploring remote areas. However, traffic can be chaotic in cities, so exercise caution.

Ride-Sharing Apps: Uber and Grab (a Southeast Asian ride-sharing platform) are widely used in cities, providing a convenient and safe way to get around.

The best mode of transportation in Vietnam largely depends on your budget, itinerary, and preferences. Many travelers opt for a combination of these options to fully experience the diverse landscapes and culture of this beautiful country.

Vietnam Cuisine

Vietnam is a food lover’s paradise, known for its diverse and flavorful cuisine. Here are some of the food and drink highlights you must try when visiting this Southeast Asian gem:

Pho: Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup, usually made with beef (pho bo) or chicken (pho ga), accompanied by fresh herbs, lime, and chili.
Banh Mi: A Vietnamese sandwich that blends French and Vietnamese influences. It typically includes a baguette filled with various ingredients like meats, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.
Goi Cuon (Spring Rolls): Fresh spring rolls made with rice paper and filled with shrimp, pork, herbs, and vermicelli noodles, often served with a dipping sauce.
Bun Cha: Grilled pork patties and sliced pork belly served with rice noodles and a sweet and savory dipping sauce.
Com tam: Broken rice served with grilled pork, egg, and a fish sauce-based dressing, a popular dish in southern Vietnam.
Cao Lau: A specialty of Hoi An, Cao Lau consists of thick rice noodles topped with pork, herbs, and crispy rice croutons, all bathed in a flavorful broth.
Mi Quang: A noodle dish from Central Vietnam featuring turmeric-infused rice noodles with shrimp, pork, peanuts, and herbs, served with a shrimp or pork-based broth.
Bun Bo Hue: A spicy beef noodle soup originating from Hue, known for its robust and flavorful broth and tender slices of beef.
Hue’s Royal Cuisine: A variety of dishes influenced by the imperial cuisine of Hue, including intricate and beautifully presented dishes like banh beo (steamed rice cakes) and banh bot loc (tapioca dumplings).
Seafood: Coastal regions offer an abundance of fresh seafood. Don’t miss grilled seafood platters, clams with lemongrass, and crab dishes.
Vietnamese Coffee: Enjoy strong, aromatic coffee served with condensed milk (ca phe sua da) or as iced coffee.
Fresh Fruit: Try tropical fruits like dragon fruit, lychee, rambutan, and jackfruit, as well as the deliciously sweet and juicy mangoes.
Bia Hoi: Sample locally brewed draft beer in Hanoi’s bia hoi (beer halls) for a refreshing and affordable drink.
Snake Wine: For the adventurous, taste snake or scorpion-infused rice wine, believed to have medicinal properties.
Che: Sweet, colorful dessert soups made from a variety of ingredients such as beans, fruits, and jelly.

Exploring Vietnam’s culinary scene is a sensory adventure that offers a taste of its rich culture and history. Don’t be afraid to try street food from local vendors, as some of the best and most authentic Vietnamese dishes are found in these humble establishments.