Travel Guide

hanoi airport to hai phong cat hai
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Getting from Hanoi Airport to Hai Phong

Date: January 1, 2023 By Categories: Blog Travel Guide Tags: , No comments

Getting from Hanoi airport to Hai Phong is easy and can be done in several ways. Hai Phong is a city located in northern Vietnam, about 100 kilometers east of Hanoi. It is the third largest city in Vietnam and the largest port in the country.

Hai Phong has a rich history and cultural heritage, with many temples, pagodas, and museums to explore. Some of the city’s top attractions include the Du Hang Pagoda, the Hai Phong Museum, and the Cat Ba National Park. The city is also known for its delicious seafood, and there are many restaurants and markets where you can try local specialties such as crab, shrimp, and oysters.

In addition to its cultural and culinary offerings, Hai Phong is also a major economic hub. The city is home to a number of industrial zones and factories, and it is a major center for trade and transportation. The port of Hai Phong is a key gateway for the import and export of goods in Vietnam, and the city is well-connected by road, rail, and air to other parts of the country.

If you’re planning a trip to Hai Phong city from Hanoi, you’ll likely be starting your journey at Noi Bai International Airport, which is located about 35 kilometers northwest of Hanoi city center. Here’s a guide on how to travel from Hanoi Airport to Hai Phong city:

Book a private car

Getting from Hanoi Airport to Hai Phong city by private car is a convenient and comfortable way to travel. When you arrive at Hanoi Airport, look for your driver in the designated pickup area, which is usually located outside the terminal building. Your driver will be holding a sign with your name on it, so you’ll be able to easily identify them. If you’re having trouble finding your driver, you can call the customer support number provided by the car rental service.

Once you’re in the car, you can sit back and relax while your driver takes you to Hai Phong city. The car will be equipped with air conditioning and other amenities to make your journey as comfortable as possible. You can use this time to catch up on some sleep, check your emails.

When you arrive in Hai Phong city, your driver will drop you off at your hotel or any other location you specify. If you need a ride back to Hanoi, you can book another private car through the same service, or you can use a different mode of transportation such as bus or train.

Overall, getting from Noi Bai Airport to Hai Phong by private car is a convenient and stress-free way to travel. With a private car, you’ll have the freedom to set your own schedule and avoid the hassle of navigating public transportation. Enjoy your trip!

Take a taxi

To take a taxi from Hanoi Airport to Hai Phong city, simply follow the signs to the taxi stand outside the terminal building. There, you’ll find several taxi companies that operate at the airport, and you can choose the one that best suits your needs and budget. You can either book a taxi in advance through the company’s website or app, or you can hail a taxi on the spot.

When you hail a taxi on the spot, you’ll need to negotiate the price with the driver. It’s a good idea to agree on the price before starting your journey to avoid any misunderstandings. You can use a taxi fare estimator to get an idea of how much the journey should cost. It’s also a good idea to have some small bills on hand to make it easier to pay the fare.

Take a public bus

To take a public bus from Hanoi Airport to Hai Phong city, you’ll need to catch a bus at the airport terminal to reach the Gia Lam bus station, and from there you will catch another bus for Hai Phong city. The airport is served by several bus lines, including route 7, 86 and 17. These buses operate at regular intervals, and you can check the schedule and route information at the airport’s information desk or on the bus company’s website.

When you board the bus, you’ll need to pay the fare on board. The fare depends on the distance of your journey and the type of bus you take. It’s a good idea to have some small bills on hand to make it easier to pay the fare.

Take a train

Another option for getting from Hanoi Airport to Hai Phong city is by train. Firstly, you will need to take a bus to get to Hanoi train station, which is about 1 hour drive from Noi Bai airport. From there, take the train for Hai Phong. There are several trains per day that operate between Hanoi and Hai Phong city. The journey from Hanoi to Hai Phong by train takes about 2 hours. You can check the schedule information on the train company website here.

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Regardless of which mode of transportation you choose, it’s a good idea to book your transportation in advance, especially during weekend or at peak tourist season. With a little planning and preparation, you can make the journey from Hanoi airport to Hai Phong smoothly and enjoy all that this beautiful region has to offer.

Hanoi airport pickups and transfer

Questions and Answers

How far is it from Hanoi Airport to Hai Phong?

The distance from Hanoi Airport to Hai Phong is about 150 kilometers.

How long does it take to travel from Hanoi Airport to Hai Phong city?

The travel time from Hanoi Airport to Hai Phong city depends on the mode of transportation you choose. By taxi or private car, the journey takes about 3 hours. By bus, the journey takes about 4 hours. By train, the journey takes about 2 hours.

Can I book a private car in advance for the journey from Hanoi Airport to Hai Phong?

Yes, you can book a private car in advance. This can be a convenient option as it allows you to avoid the hassle of negotiating a price with a taxi driver and ensures that you have a ride waiting for you when you arrive at the airport.

Is it safe to take a taxi from Hanoi Airport to Hai Phong?

In general, taking a taxi from Hanoi Airport to Hai Phong is safe. Just be sure to use a reputable taxi company and agree on the price before starting your journey.

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hanoi airport to ninh binh
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Getting from Hanoi Airport to Ninh Binh

Date: January 1, 2023 By Categories: Blog Travel Guide Tags: , No comments

Getting from Hanoi airport to Ninh Binh can be done in several ways. Located in the Red River Delta region of northern Vietnam, Ninh Binh is a popular destination for travelers looking to experience the country’s natural beauty and cultural attractions.

One of the main attractions in Ninh Binh is the Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features a network of caves, temples, and pagodas set amid beautiful karst cliffs and rice fields. Visitors can take a boat tour through the caves to see the stunning rock formations and visit the temples.

In addition to the Trang An Landscape Complex, Ninh Binh is home to other natural attractions such as the Tam Coc, Bich Dong pagoda and the Cuc Phuong National Park. The province is also home to several temples and pagodas, including the Bai Dinh Temple, which is the largest temple complex in Vietnam.

If you’re planning a trip to Ninh Binh from Hanoi, you’ll likely be starting your journey at Noi Bai International Airport, which is located about 35 kilometers northwest of the city center. Here’s a guide on how to travel from Hanoi Airport to Ninh Binh:

Book a private car

Getting from Hanoi Airport to Ninh Binh by private car is a convenient and comfortable way to travel. When you arrive at Hanoi Airport, look for your driver in the designated pickup area, which is usually located outside the terminal building. Your driver will be holding a sign with your name on it, so you’ll be able to easily identify them. If you’re having trouble finding your driver, you can call the customer support number provided by the car rental service.

Once you’re in the car, you can sit back and relax while your driver takes you to Ninh Binh. The car will be equipped with air conditioning and other amenities to make your journey as comfortable as possible. You can use this time to catch up on some sleep, check your emails.

When you arrive in Ninh Binh, your driver will drop you off at your hotel or any other location you specify. If you need a ride back to Hanoi, you can book another private car through the same service, or you can use a different mode of transportation such as bus or train.

Overall, getting from Noi Bai Airport to Ninh Binh by private car is a convenient and stress-free way to travel. With a private car, you’ll have the freedom to set your own schedule and avoid the hassle of navigating public transportation. Enjoy your trip!

Take a taxi

To take a taxi from Hanoi Airport to Ninh Binh, simply follow the signs to the taxi stand outside the terminal building. There, you’ll find several taxi companies that operate at the airport, and you can choose the one that best suits your needs and budget. You can either book a taxi in advance through the company’s website or app, or you can hail a taxi on the spot.

When you hail a taxi on the spot, you’ll need to negotiate the price with the driver. It’s a good idea to agree on the price before starting your journey to avoid any misunderstandings. You can use a taxi fare estimator to get an idea of how much the journey should cost. It’s also a good idea to have some small bills on hand to make it easier to pay the fare.

Take a public bus

To take a public bus from Hanoi Airport to Ninh Binh, you’ll need to catch a bus at the airport terminal to reach the My Dinh bus station, and from there you will catch another bus for Ninh Binh. The airport is served by several bus lines, including route 7, 86 and 17. These buses operate at regular intervals, and you can check the schedule and route information at the airport’s information desk or on the bus company’s website.

When you board the bus, you’ll need to pay the fare on board. The fare depends on the distance of your journey and the type of bus you take. It’s a good idea to have some small bills on hand to make it easier to pay the fare.

Take a train

Another option for getting from Hanoi Airport to Ninh Binh is by train. Firstly, you will need to take a bus to get to Hanoi train station, which is about 1 hour drive from Noi Bai airport. From there, take the train for Ninh Binh. There are several trains per day that operate between Hanoi and Ninh Binh. The journey from Hanoi to Ninh Binh by train takes about 2 hours.

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Regardless of which mode of transportation you choose, it’s a good idea to book your transportation in advance, especially during weekend or at peak tourist season. With a little planning and preparation, you can make the journey from Hanoi airport to Ninh Binh smoothly and enjoy all that this beautiful region has to offer.

Hanoi airport pickups and transfer

Questions and Answers

How far is it from Hanoi Airport to Ninh Binh?

The distance from Hanoi Airport to Ninh Binh is about 120 kilometers.

How long does it take to travel from Hanoi Airport to Ninh Binh?

The travel time from Hanoi Airport to Ninh Binh depends on the mode of transportation you choose. By taxi or private car, the journey takes about 2-3 hours. By bus, the journey takes about 3-4 hours. By train, the journey takes about 2 hours.

Can I book a private car in advance for the journey from Hanoi Airport to Ninh Binh?

Yes, you can book a private car in advance. This can be a convenient option as it allows you to avoid the hassle of negotiating a price with a taxi driver and ensures that you have a ride waiting for you when you arrive at the airport.

Is it safe to take a taxi from Hanoi Airport to Ninh Binh?

In general, taking a taxi from Hanoi Airport to Ninh Binh is safe. Just be sure to use a reputable taxi company and agree on the price before starting your journey.

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hanoi airport to ha giang
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Getting from Hanoi Airport to Ha Giang

Date: December 29, 2022 By Categories: Blog Travel Guide Tags: , No comments

If you’re planning a trip to Ha Giang, a beautiful province in the far north of Vietnam, you’ll likely be flying into Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport. From there, you’ll need to find a way to get to Ha Giang, which is located about 300 kilometers (186 miles) northwest of the airport. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the journey from Hanoi airport to Ha Giang.

Ha Giang is home to towering limestone cliffs, winding mountain roads, and beautiful rice terraces. The region is also home to a number of ethnic minority groups, each with its own unique culture and traditions. Popular activities in Ha Giang include hiking, cycling, and visiting local markets and villages. Ha Giang is a must-see destination for anyone interested in experiencing the natural and cultural beauty of Vietnam’s north.

There are several options for getting from Hanoi airport to Ha Giang, including private car, bus, and motorbike.

Private car or taxi

One of the most convenient options is to hire a private car or taxi to take you directly from the airport to Ha Giang. This can be a comfortable and hassle-free way to travel, but it will likely be more expensive than other options. You can arrange a private car or taxi through a travel agency or online booking platform, or you can negotiate a price with a taxi driver at the airport. The journey from Hanoi airport to Ha Giang by private car or taxi typically takes about 6-7 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Bus

Another option is to take a bus from Hanoi to Ha Giang. There are several bus companies that operate this route, with departures from Hanoi’s long-distance bus station, which is located about 30 minutes from the airport by taxi. The journey from Hanoi to Ha Giang by bus takes about 8-9 hours and can be quite bumpy, as the roads in the region are winding and often in poor condition. However, buses are a more economical option than private cars or taxis.

Motorbike

If you’re an experienced motorbike rider and that you have a valid driving license, you might consider making the journey from Hanoi to Ha Giang by motorbike. This can be a great way to experience the beauty of Vietnam’s countryside and explore at your own pace, but it’s important to be prepared for the long journey and the challenging road conditions.

You can rent one in Hanoi. It’s recommended to book a motorbike in advance, as rental agencies can be crowded and may not have enough bikes available. The journey from Hanoi to Ha Giang by motorbike takes about 9-10 hours.

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Regardless of which mode of transportation you choose, it’s a good idea to book your travel in advance, especially during weekend or at peak tourist season. Be sure to wear a helmet, to bring plenty of water, snacks, and a hat or sunscreen, as the journey can be long and hot.

With a little planning and preparation, you can make the journey from Hanoi airport to Ha Giang smoothly and enjoy all that this beautiful region has to offer.

Hanoi airport pickups and transfer

Questions and Answers

How far is Hanoi airport from Ha Giang?

The distance from Hanoi airport to Halong bay is about 250 kilometers.

How long does it take to get from Hanoi airport to Ha Giang?

The travel time from Hanoi airport to Ha Giang can vary depending on the mode of transportation you choose. All things considered, the whole journey should take about 7-9 hours.

Can I book a transfer from Hanoi airport to Ha Giang in advance?

Yes, it is possible to book a transfer from Hanoi airport to Ha Giang in advance. Many tour operators and travel agencies offer transfer services that can be booked in advance, or you can hire a private car or taxi through an online booking platform. It is recommended to book your transfer in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to ensure that you have a reliable and convenient way to get to downtown Hanoi.

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hanoi airport to halong bay
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Getting from Hanoi Airport to Halong Bay

Date: December 29, 2022 By Categories: Blog Travel Guide Tags: , , No comments

Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is home to Noi Bai International Airport, which is located about 35 kilometers northwest of the city center. If you’re planning to visit Halong Bay, a popular tourist destination known for its stunning limestone karsts and crystal clear waters, you’ll likely be arriving at Noi Bai Airport and wondering how to get to Halong Bay from there. Here’s a guide on how to travel from Hanoi Airport to Halong Bay.

Halong Bay is a stunning natural wonder located in northeastern Vietnam. The bay is home to thousands of small islands, towering limestone cliffs, and hidden caves, creating a breathtaking landscape that has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Halong Bay is a popular tourist destination, offering a range of activities such as kayaking, swiming, and boat cruises. Visitors can also explore the bay’s many caves and temples, or simply relax on one of the many sandy beaches.

Private car

One of the most convenient ways to get to Halong Bay from Hanoi Airport is to book a transfer in advance. Many travel agencies and tour operators offer private car or minibus transfers that will take you directly from the airport to your hotel or guesthouse in Halong Bay. These transfers are typically more expensive than other options, but they offer the convenience of door-to-door service and can be a good option if you have a lot of luggage or if you’re not comfortable navigating public transportation in a foreign country.

Taxi

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can also take a taxi from Hanoi Airport to Halong Bay. Taxis are readily available at the airport and can be hired for a fixed price, which should be negotiated in advance. The journey from Hanoi Airport to Halong Bay takes about 3-4 hours by car, depending on traffic, and the cost will vary depending on the type of taxi and your negotiating skills.

Shuttle bus

Another option is to take the shuttle bus from Hanoi Airport to Halong Bay. These buses run regularly and are a more affordable option than a private transfer or taxi. The journey takes around 4-5 hours and includes stops at various hotels and guesthouses along the way. The shuttle bus is a good option if you’re traveling on a tight budget, but be prepared for a longer journey and multiple stops.

Public bus

Finally, you can also take the public bus from Hanoi Airport to Halong Bay. This is the most budget-friendly option, but it’s also the least convenient, as you’ll need to make your own way to the bus station and navigate the local bus system. Buses from Hanoi Airport to Halong Bay run regularly and take around 4-5 hours, depending on traffic.

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No matter which option you choose, it’s a good idea to book your transfer or tickets in advance to avoid any last-minute stress or hassle. And don’t forget to bring plenty of water and snacks for the journey, as well as some cash in Vietnamese Dong for any incidentals.

In conclusion, there are several options for traveling from Hanoi Airport to Halong Bay, including private transfers, taxis, shuttle buses, and public buses. The most convenient option is a private transfer, but this can be more expensive. Alternatively, you can take a taxi, shuttle bus, or public bus, which are more budget-friendly but may take longer and involve multiple stops. Whichever option you choose, be sure to book in advance and bring supplies for the journey.

Hanoi airport pickups and transfer

Questions and Answers

How far is Hanoi airport from Halong bay?

The distance from Hanoi airport to Halong bay is about 180 kilometers (via highway 5B).

How long does it take to get from Hanoi airport to Halong bay?

The travel time from Hanoi airport to Halong bay can vary depending on the mode of transportation you choose. All things considered, the whole journey should take about 3-5 hours.

Can I book a transfer from Hanoi airport to Halong bay in advance?

Yes, it is possible to book a transfer from Hanoi airport to Halong bay in advance. Many tour operators and travel agencies offer transfer services that can be booked in advance, or you can hire a private car or taxi through an online booking platform. It is recommended to book your transfer in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to ensure that you have a reliable and convenient way to get to downtown Hanoi.

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hanoi airport to old quarter
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Getting from Hanoi Airport to Old Quarter

Date: December 28, 2022 By Categories: Blog Travel Guide Tags: , , , No comments

Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a vibrant and historic neighborhood located in the heart of the city, known for its narrow streets, traditional architecture, and bustling markets. If you’re planning a trip to Hanoi and will be flying into Noi Bai International Airport, you’ll need to find a way to get from the airport to the Old Quarter.

There are several options for getting from Hanoi airport to the Old Quarter, including taxi, bus, and private transfer.

Private car

First, you will need to find a reliable car rental company that offers this service. There are several companies located at Hanoi Airport that offer rentals with drivers, so you will have plenty of options to choose from. Be sure to compare prices and read reviews to find the best deal and the most reliable company.

Once you have chosen a rental company, you will need to decide what type of car you want. Most rental companies offer a range of vehicles, from compact cars and sedans to SUVs and vans. Depending on your needs and budget, you can choose the best option for your trip.

Once you have booked the transfer, you will need to make a payment of deposit or the full payment. Make sure you provide all necessary information the car rental company may need for the airport pickup arrangement, including your flight number, arrival time…

Now it is time to get in the car and enjoy the ride! Your private driver will pick you up at the airport and take you to the Old Quarter, a journey that takes about 30-45 minutes by car. Along the way, you will get to see all the sights and sounds of Hanoi, from the bustling cityscape to the historic landmarks.

When you arrive in the Old Quarter, you will have the freedom to explore at your own pace. From the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake to the historic Temple of Literature, there is no shortage of things to do and see in this vibrant district. And with your private driver, you can go wherever you want, whenever you want.

Hiring a car rental with a driver from Hanoi Airport to the Old Quarter is a convenient way to experience the city. Just be sure to choose a good rental company, and you’ll have a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Taxi

One of the easiest ways to get from the airport to the Old Quarter is by taxi. Taxis are available at the airport and can be found outside the arrivals terminal. There are several reputable taxi companies operating at the airport, including Mai Linh and Hanoi Taxi. It’s a good idea to choose a reputable taxi company, as some unscrupulous drivers may try to overcharge tourists. The journey from the airport to the Old Quarter by taxi takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.

Bus

Another option is to take the bus from the airport to the Old Quarter. The airport has its own bus station, located just outside the arrivals terminal. From there, you can catch bus route 7 or bus route 86, which both travel to the Old Quarter. The journey takes about an hour and costs just a few dollars. Buses are a more economical option than taxis, but they can be crowded and may not be as comfortable.

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Regardless of which mode of transportation you choose, it’s a good idea to book your travel in advance, especially during peak tourist season. And be sure to have the address of your hotel or accommodations in the Old Quarter written in Vietnamese, as many taxi drivers may not speak English.

With a little planning and preparation, you can easily get from Hanoi airport to the Old Quarter and start exploring all that this vibrant neighborhood has to offer.

Hanoi airport pickups and transfer

Questions and Answers

How far is Hanoi airport from Old Quarter?

The distance from Hanoi airport to Old Quarter is 30 kilometers.

How long does it take to get from Hanoi airport to the Old Quarter?

The travel time from Hanoi airport to the Old Quarter can vary depending on the mode of transportation you choose. All things considered, the whole journey should take about 45 minutes.

Can I book a transfer from Hanoi airport to the Old Quarter in advance?

Yes, it is possible to book a transfer from Hanoi airport to the Old Quarter in advance. Many tour operators and travel agencies offer transfer services that can be booked in advance, or you can hire a private car or taxi through an online booking platform. It is recommended to book your transfer in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to ensure that you have a reliable and convenient way to get to downtown Hanoi.

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How to Avoid Taxi Scams in Vietnam

Date: September 30, 2009 By Categories: Travel Guide Tags: , No comments

Taxi scams happen in many countries in the world. Vietnam is not an exception. What are common taxi scams in Vietnam? How to avoid it?

Taxi scams in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City has been increasing recently. Travelers should pay much attention on making your arrangement transfer to hotel from airport from that city.

Common taxi scams

The most common scam is using the tricks of ”Money confusion” for people just arrive and got no ideas about local currency and value of money notes. Some taxi drivers also ask for extra of toll fees or taking people to unwanted hotels to get commissions.

In order to avoid some above uncomfortable situation, please consider taking following acts:

Read more about your airport destination such as distance to your hotel. Use your common sense to figure out how much roughly will it cost in your currency.

  • Write down the exchange rates for destination currency to your currency. It helps you in calculating faster.
Vietcombank Exchange Rates. Updated 27-Aug-2020
  • Once arrival, no rush, just look around to find transportation service booth on arrival terminal.
noi bai airport information booth
Information Booth
  • Purchase must be returned by receive that stated clearly the costing, inclusion and destination.
  • If you take taxi from outside, make sure you agree with drivers of the destination, price, inclusion…and all written in paper (prepare a piece of paper).
Taxi at Noi Bai airport in Hanoi
Taxi at Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi
  • If something turn out bad, call the police or people around to get help (Police: 113).
  • And if you don’t mind to pay few more dollars, book your private transfer. Easy and peace of mind!

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Vietnam Entry Requirements

Date: September 21, 2009 By Categories: Travel Guide Tags: , , , No comments

Visa

Tourist visas obtained from embassies and consulates outside of Vietnam are good for one entry and a stay of up to 30 days. Processing times vary depending on the location, though one week is a safe estimate.

When forwarding your application, enclose your passport, two passport-sized photographs and the application fee (money orders preferred).

Applicants are given the option of express visa processing. The fee is 50% higher, and the visa is issued in as little as 15 minutes.

Passport

Make sure that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after entry. In some cases, consular officials have issued visas that are in turn rejected by immigration officials due to a passport’s insufficient validity.

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Getting around Vietnam

Date: September 20, 2009 By Categories: Travel Guide Tags: , No comments

Given Vietnam’s sliver-like shape, travelling from one major city to the next can be a time consuming affair. There is no question that travel by air is the fastest and most convenient means of getting around for those who don’t mind the extra expense. Vietnam Airlines offers the greatest coverage, with service to 15 cities. Vasco Airlines and Pacific Airlines only operate service to a few regional capitals but offer the most affordable fares.

The most comfortable mode of land-based travel is by train. The primary railway artery in the country travels 1,000 miles between Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. The Reunification Express (an icon of national unity named following the end of the Vietnamese-American War) operates a two-week journey along this stretch of railway, stopping in various towns across the countryside. Total travel time is 30 hours.

Less practical as a means of outright transportation, scenic boat trips are offered in many parts of the country. These are especially popular in the Mekong Delta region and to a lesser extent in Nha Trang and Hue. It is also possible to charter two- or three-day tours of the karst limestone formations in Ha Long Bay.

Once you are based in a particular city in Vietnam, there are several viable means of getting around town. Once ubiquitous, bicycle rickshaws (cyclo) are now most common in smaller, provincial cities. Slower and more expensive than their petrol-powered counterparts, cyclo can be incorporated into a pleasant sightseeing tour of compact towns. Be sure to negotiate the price ahead of time.

Motorcycle taxis (xe ôm) offer an efficient means of transportation. Again, tourists are likely to be quoted an inflated price, so a bit of polite negotiation is essential before boarding. It is also possible to hire a motorbike from travel agencies across the country.

Metered taxis are on hand in mid- to large-sized cities. MaiLinh taxis, the most trustworthy line of vehicles, are identified by their green logo. Don’t necessarily rely on the meter as unscrupulous drivers have been known to employ overzealous meters displaying inflated prices. As with other modes of transport, this situation can be averted by pre-negotiating a price and then sticking to the agreement.

Hire cars are not a viable means of transportation as international drivers’ licenses are not recognized.

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Travel to Vietnam

Date: September 19, 2009 By Categories: Travel Guide Tags: , , , No comments

Travel to Vietnam by air is the most convenient means of arriving in Vietnam. International airports are found in Da Nang, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. These are strategically spaced across the country to offer convenient access to each region. Long-haul flights to Vietnam usually involve a layover at a regional hub, typically in Thailand, Japan or Singapore.

Discount carriers Jetstar and AirAsia operate some of the most affordable flights to Vietnam. China Airlines, Bangkok Airways, EVA Air, United Airlines, SilkAir, Korean Air, Japan Airlines, Hong Kong Airlines, Dragonair, Lao Airlines, Malaysia Airlines and Thai Airways International are among the roster of carriers that serve Vietnam.

Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi) is the most convenient gateway into northern Vietnam. Da Nang International Airport is used by travellers bound for Vietnam’s central region, and it is substantially smaller than Tan Son Nhat International Airport near Ho Chi Minh City.

Gateway to the southern region, this is the largest and most modern of the three. Visitors can cut out backtracking by flying into one of these airports, then departing from another.

It is possible to arrive in Vietnam overland by bus, an attractive option for anyone involved in a wider tour of Southeast Asia. Three crossing points exist along the border with China, the most popular of which is the Friendship Pass at Huu Nghi Quan, where passengers by rail or road may cross. The most popular of the six crossing points with Laos is across from Lao Bao.

Four border crossing lie on the border with Cambodia. The crossing at Moc Bai connects Ho Chi Minh City with Cambodia’s Phnom Penh. The crossing at Chau Doc also connects to Ho Chi Minh City and is passable by boat along the Mekong River.

Aside from this Mekong River crossing point, there is no other way to arrive in Vietnam by boat. Visitors may notice international cruise liners in Vietnamese waters, but there is no protocol allowing their passengers to disembark and enter Vietnam.

To the north, it is possible for international rail passengers to pass between China and Vietnam at selected crossing points. The most popular rail connection is at Dong Dang, making it possible for passengers to cross between the distant cities of Hanoi and Beijing. Trains travelling from Vietnam to China’s Yunnan province are less reliable.

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