What are the prices in Vietnam? ☀️

Northern Vietnam
16 min readApr 3, 2024

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Prices in Vietnam
Cost of Living and Travel Expenses in Vietnam: What to Expect?

Living and Traveling Costs in Vietnam: A Budget-Friendly Guide

Vietnam, a country known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine, has become a hotspot for travelers seeking adventure without breaking the bank. With its diverse attractions, from bustling cities to serene countryside, Vietnam offers an affordable yet enriching experience for visitors. Whether you’re a budget-conscious backpacker or a luxury traveler, here’s a breakdown of the costs involved in living and traveling in Vietnam.

Accommodation:

Accommodation options in Vietnam cater to all budgets, ranging from budget hostels to luxury resorts. Here’s an approximate cost breakdown:

  • Budget: Dorm beds in hostels can cost as little as $5 to $10 per night, while private rooms in guesthouses typically range from $10 to $30 per night.
  • Mid-range: For a bit more comfort and privacy, mid-range hotels and boutique homestays range from $30 to $70 per night.
  • Luxury: Luxury hotels and resorts in tourist hotspots like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and coastal destinations can cost anywhere from $100 to $300 or more per night.

Food and Dining:

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned worldwide for its freshness, complexity, and affordability. From street food stalls to upscale restaurants, here’s what you can expect to spend on food:

  • Street food: Pho (noodle soup), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), and fresh spring rolls can be enjoyed for as little as $1 to $3 per dish.
  • Local restaurants: A meal at a local eatery or “quán cơm” typically costs between $2 to $5 per person.
  • Mid-range restaurants: Dining at mid-range restaurants with a wider selection of dishes may cost anywhere from $5 to $15 per person.
  • Fine dining: Upscale restaurants in major cities may charge $20 to $50 or more per person for a multi-course meal.

Transportation:

Getting around Vietnam is relatively inexpensive, with various transportation options available:

  • Motorbike rental: Renting a motorbike, a popular choice among travelers, costs around $5 to $10 per day.
  • Public transport: Buses and trains are affordable options for traveling between cities, with fares ranging from $5 to $30 depending on the distance and class of service.
  • Taxis and ridesharing: Taxis and ridesharing services like Grab are convenient for short distances and generally cost $1 to $2 per kilometer.
  • Domestic flights: If you’re traveling long distances, domestic flights are available at reasonable prices, with fares starting from $30 to $100 or more depending on the route and time of booking.

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Activities and Entertainment:

Vietnam offers a plethora of activities and attractions to suit every interest, from exploring historical sites to trekking in lush mountains:

  • Sightseeing: Entrance fees to popular attractions such as Ha Long Bay, Hoi An Ancient Town, and the Cu Chi Tunnels typically range from $5 to $20 per person.
  • Tours and excursions: Guided tours, boat trips, and outdoor activities like trekking and cycling tours can vary widely in price but generally start from $10 to $50 per person.
  • Nightlife: Enjoying the vibrant nightlife scene in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City can be affordable, with drinks priced at $1 to $5 in local bars and clubs.

Overall Budget:

For budget travelers, a daily budget of $20 to $50 can cover accommodation, meals, transportation, and some activities. Mid-range travelers can expect to spend between $50 to $100 per day, while those seeking luxury experiences may budget $100 or more per day.

🥗 Prices in Restaurants (Food in Vietnam):

🥗 Prices in Restaurants (Food in Vietnam):
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| Dish | Price (VND) | Price Range (USD) |
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| Bún chả (Grilled pork with noodles) | 40,000.00 ₫ | 1.60 – 3.20 USD |
| Phở bò (Beef noodle soup) | 50,000.00 ₫ | 2.00 – 3.50 USD |
| Gỏi cuốn (Fried Vietnamese spring rolls) | 25,000.00 ₫ | 1.00 – 2.00 USD |
| Bánh mì (Vietnamese baguette) | 20,000.00 ₫ | 0.80 – 1.60 USD |
| Cơm gà (Chicken with rice) | 45,000.00 ₫ | 1.80 – 3.00 USD |
| Bánh xèo (Crispy rice pancake) | 35,000.00 ₫ | 1.40 – 2.50 USD |
| Bún riêu (Rice noodles with tomato soup) | 55,000.00 ₫ | 2.20 – 3.50 USD |
| Phở chay (Vegetarian noodle soup) | 40,000.00 ₫ | 1.60 – 2.50 USD |
| Bún bò Huế (Spicy beef noodles from Huế) | 60,000.00 ₫ | 2.40 – 4.00 USD |
| Gòi cuốn tôm (Fried Vietnamese rolls with shrimp) | 30,000.00 ₫ | 1.20 – 2.00 USD |
| Chả giò (Fried Vietnamese spring rolls) | 25,000.00 ₫ | 1.00 – 1.75 USD |
| Phở gà (Chicken noodle soup) | 50,000.00 ₫ | 2.00 – 3.00 USD |
| Bánh cuốn (Rolled noodles) | 30,000.00 ₫ | 1.20 – 2.00 USD |
| Bánh mì xíu mại (Baguette with chicken minced meat) | 25,000.00 ₫ | 1.00 – 1.75 USD |
| Cá kho tộ (Braised fish in brown sauce)| 70,000.00 ₫ | 2.80 – 4.50 USD |
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🥫 Prices of Groceries in Markets in Vietnam:

🥫 Prices of Food and Ingredients in Vietnam:
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| Item | Aver. Price (VND) | Aver. Price (USD) |
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| Rice (1kg) | 22,000.00 ₫ | 0.88 USD |
| Noodles (500g) | 15,000.00 ₫ | 0.60 USD |
| Fresh Fish (1kg) | 50,000.00 ₫ | 2.00 USD |
| Shrimp (1kg) | 120,000.00 ₫ | 4.80 USD |
| Chicken (1kg) | 80,000.00 ₫ | 3.20 USD |
| Pork (1kg) | 90,000.00 ₫ | 3.60 USD |
| Vegetables (1kg) | 20,000.00 ₫ | 0.80 USD |
| Fruits (1kg) | 30,000.00 ₫ | 1.20 USD |
| Spices (100g) | 10,000.00 ₫ | 0.40 USD |
| Coffee Beans (500g) | 50,000.00 ₫ | 2.00 USD |
| Tea Leaves (100g) | 15,000.00 ₫ | 0.60 USD |
| Soy Sauce (500ml) | 25,000.00 ₫ | 1.00 USD |
| Fish Sauce (500ml) | 30,000.00 ₫ | 1.20 USD |
| Rice Vinegar (500ml) | 20,000.00 ₫ | 0.80 USD |
| Coconut Milk (400ml) | 15,000.00 ₫ | 0.60 USD |
| Peanuts (250g) | 18,000.00 ₫ | 0.72 USD |
| Eggs (12) | 38,000.00 ₫ | 1.52 USD |
| Onions (1kg) | 25,000.00 ₫ | 1.00 USD |
| Garlic (100g) | 8,000.00 ₫ | 0.32 USD |
| Chili Peppers (100g) | 12,000.00 ₫ | 0.48 USD |
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🚍 Prices for transportation in Vietnam:

🚍 Prices of Transportation in Vietnam:
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| Mode | Aver. Price (VND) | Aver. Price (USD) |
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| City Bus Fare | 7,000.00 ₫ | 0.30 USD |
| Taxi (Base Fare) | 12,000.00 ₫ | 0.48 USD |
| Motorbike Taxi (per km) | 10,000.00 ₫ | 0.40 USD |
| Gasoline (1 liter) | 22,000.00 ₫ | 1.00 USD |
| Rental Bicycle (per hour)| 5,000.00 ₫ | 0.20 USD |
| Rental Motorbike (per day) | 150,000.00 ₫ | 6.00 – 10.00 USD |
| Train Ticket (Short Distance) | 50,000.00 ₫ | 2.00 USD |
| Domestic Flight (One-way)| 500,000.00 ₫ | 20.00 – 50.00 USD |
| Car Rental (per day) | 1,000,000.00 ₫ | 40.00-60.00 USD |
| Motorbike Purchase (New) | 20,000,000.00 ₫ | 800.00 USD |
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🏚️ Prices of Services (Monthly) in Vietnam:

🏚️ Prices of Services (Monthly) in Vietnam:
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| Service | Aver. Price (VND) | Aver. Price (USD) |
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| Internet (Basic Plan) | 150,000.00 ₫ | 6.00 USD |
| Mobile Phone Plan | 100,000.00 ₫ | 4.00 USD |
| Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 85m2 Apartment | 2,000,000.00 ₫ | 80.00 USD |
| Rent (1 Bedroom Apartment in City Center) | 8,000,000.00 ₫ | 320.00 USD |
| Rent (1 Bedroom Apartment Outside City Center) | 5,000,000.00 ₫ | 200.00 USD |
| Gym Membership | 300,000.00 ₫ | 12.00 USD |
| Yoga Class (per session) | 100,000.00 ₫ | 4.00 USD |
| Streaming Services Subscription | 50,000.00 ₫ | 2.00 USD |
| Cleaning Service (per hour) | 50,000.00 ₫ | 2.00 USD |
| Haircut (Men) | 100,000.00 ₫ | 4.00 USD |
| Beauty Salon (Women) | 500,000.00 ₫ | 20.00 USD |
| Language Classes (per month) | 1,000,000.00 ₫ | 40.00 USD |
| Private Tutoring (per hour) | 150,000.00 ₫ | 6.00 USD |
| Health Insurance (per month) | 500,000.00 ₫ | 20.00 USD |
| Dry Cleaning (5 shirts) | 50,000.00 ₫ | 2.00 USD |
| Car Insurance (per month) | 1,000,000.00 ₫ | 40.00 USD |
| Office Space Rental (per month) | 5,000,000.00 ₫ | 200.00 USD |
| Virtual Private Network (VPN) Subscription | 50,000.00 ₫ | 2.00 USD |
| Magazine / Newspaper Subscription | 30,000.00 ₫ | 1.20 USD |
| Medical Checkup (Basic) | 300,000.00 ₫ | 12.00 USD |
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👚 Prices of Clothing And Shoes in Vietnam:

👚 Prices of Clothing And Shoes in Vietnam:
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| Item | Aver. Price (VND) | Aver. Price (USD) |
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| T-Shirt | 100,000.00 ₫ | 4.00 USD |
| Jeans | 200,000.00 ₫ | 8.00 USD |
| Sweater | 150,000.00 ₫ | 6.00 USD |
| Dress | 250,000.00 ₫ | 10.00 USD |
| Running Shoes | 300,000.00 ₫ | 12.00 USD |
| Sneakers | 200,000.00 ₫ | 8.00 USD |
| Formal Shoes | 400,000.00 ₫ | 16.00 USD |
| Sandals | 80,000.00 ₫ | 3.20 USD |
| Hoodie | 180,000.00 ₫ | 7.20 USD |
| Shorts | 120,000.00 ₫ | 4.80 USD |
| Winter Jacket | 350,000.00 ₫ | 14.00 USD |
| Hat | 50,000.00 ₫ | 2.00 USD |
| Scarf | 70,000.00 ₫ | 2.80 USD |
| Socks (3 pairs) | 30,000.00 ₫ | 1.20 USD |
| Underwear (3 pairs) | 80,000.00 ₫ | 3.20 USD |
| Workout Leggings | 120,000.00 ₫ | 4.80 USD |
| Swimsuit | 150,000.00 ₫ | 6.00 USD |
| Leather Belt | 60,000.00 ₫ | 2.40 USD |
| Backpack | 180,000.00 ₫ | 7.20 USD |
| Formal Shirt | 130,000.00 ₫ | 5.20 USD |
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🏨 Prices for Accommodation in Vietnam:

🏨 Prices for Stay in Vietnam:
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| Accommodation | Aver. Price (VND) | Aver. Price (USD) |
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| Hostel (per night) | 150,000.00 ₫ | 6.00 USD |
| Budget Hotel (per night) | 300,000.00 ₫ | 12.00 USD |
| Mid-Range Hotel (per night) | 700,000.00 ₫ | 28.00 USD |
| Luxury Hotel (per night) | 2,000,000.00 ₫ | 80.00 USD |
| Apartment Rental (per month) | 8,000,000.00 ₫ | 320.00 USD |
| Guesthouse (per night) | 250,000.00 ₫ | 10.00 USD |
| Resort (per night) | 1,500,000.00 ₫ | 60.00 USD |
| Airbnb (average per night) | 500,000.00 ₫ | 20.00 USD |
| Homestay (per night) | 200,000.00 ₫ | 8.00 USD |
| Backpacker Hostel (per night) | 100,000.00 ₫ | 4.00 USD |
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🚡 Prices for Tourist Activities / Tickets in Vietnam:

🚡 Tourist Activities in Vietnam:
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| Activity | Price Range (Approx.) |
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| Ha Long Bay Cruise | $50 – $400 per person |
| Hoi An Ancient Town | Free to explore, some attractions may require an entrance fee ($5 – $10) |
| Cu Chi Tunnels | $5 – $10 per person (entrance fee) |
| Mekong Delta Tour | $20 – $50 per person (day trip) |
| Water Puppet Show (Hanoi) | $5 – $10 per person |
| Motorbike Tour | $30 – $100 per day (including bike rental and guide) |
| Sapa Trekking | $50 – $150 per person (multi-day tour with accommodation and guide) |
| Da Nang Golden Bridge | $5 – $10 (entrance fee) |
| Hue Imperial City | $5 – $10 (entrance fee) |
| Nha Trang Island Tours | $20 – $50 per person |
| Phong Nha Caves | $10 – $20 (entrance fee) |
| Da Lat Canyoning | $30 – $60 per person |
| Cat Ba Island Tours | $20 – $50 per person |
| Phu Quoc Snorkeling | $20 – $50 per person |
| Ho Chi Minh City Tour | $20 – $50 per person |
| Hanoi Street Food Tour | $10 – $30 per person |
| Vietnamese Cooking Class | $20 – $50 per person |
| Tam Coc Boat Tour | $10 – $20 per person |
| Marble Mountains (Da Nang) | $1 – $2 (entrance fee) |
| My Son Sanctuary | $5 – $10 (entrance fee) |
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⭐⭐⭐ BOOK A TOUR / ACTIVITY in Vietnam ➜ ⭐⭐⭐

💰 How much money to take as a tourist to Vietnam?

As a tourist visiting Vietnam, the amount of money you’ll need depends on various factors such as your travel style, duration of stay, planned activities, and personal preferences. Here are a few options to consider:

Budget Traveler:

  • Daily Budget: $20 — $30 per day
  • Total for 1 Week: $140 — $210
  • Total for 2 Weeks: $280 — $420
  • Key Considerations: Staying in budget accommodations, eating street food, using public transportation, and opting for free or low-cost activities.

Mid-Range Traveler:

  • Daily Budget: $50 — $80 per day
  • Total for 1 Week: $350 — $560
  • Total for 2 Weeks: $700 — $1,120
  • Key Considerations: Staying in mid-range hotels, dining at local restaurants and cafes, occasional guided tours or activities, and using a mix of public and private transportation.

Luxury Traveler:

  • Daily Budget: $100 — $200+ per day
  • Total for 1 Week: $700 — $1,400+
  • Total for 2 Weeks: $1,400 — $2,800+
  • Key Considerations: Staying in luxury hotels or resorts, dining at upscale restaurants, indulging in spa treatments, private tours, and transportation options such as private drivers or domestic flights.

Remember to also budget for unexpected expenses, souvenirs, and emergencies. It’s advisable to carry a mix of cash and cards, ensuring access to funds in various situations. Additionally, consider the exchange rates and banking fees for currency conversion.

❓ FAQ + TIPS — What are the prices in Vietnam:

1. What is the cost of living like in Vietnam?

Vietnam is known for its relatively low cost of living compared to many Western countries. The cost of living can vary significantly depending on the city and your lifestyle. Generally, expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and entertainment are more affordable in Vietnam. For example, renting an apartment in a city center can cost a fraction of what it would in many Western cities, and dining out at local eateries is often very budget-friendly.

2. How much does a meal at a local restaurant cost in Vietnam?

A meal at a local restaurant in Vietnam can vary in price depending on the location and type of establishment. In local eateries or street food stalls, you can enjoy a hearty meal for as little as $1 to $5 USD per person. This usually includes dishes like pho (noodle soup), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), or com tam (broken rice). If you opt for higher-end restaurants or international cuisine, prices can be higher but still relatively affordable compared to Western standards.

3. What is the average price of street food in Vietnam?

Street food is an integral part of Vietnamese culture, and it’s not only delicious but also very affordable. Prices for street food can range from $0.50 to $2 USD per dish, depending on what you’re ordering and where you’re eating. You can find a wide variety of street food options, including banh mi, banh xeo (Vietnamese pancake), spring rolls, and fresh fruit smoothies, all at very reasonable prices.

4. How much does a taxi ride cost in Vietnam?

Taxi fares in Vietnam can vary depending on factors such as distance, time of day, and the taxi company. Generally, starting fares for taxis range from around $0.50 to $1 USD, with additional charges for each kilometer traveled. As a rough estimate, a short taxi ride within a city might cost between $2 to $5 USD, while longer rides or rides during peak hours could cost slightly more. It’s always a good idea to ensure the taxi meter is used to avoid any misunderstandings about the fare.

5. Is it cheaper to use public transportation in Vietnam?

Yes, public transportation is generally cheaper than taking taxis or rideshare services in Vietnam. Most cities have an extensive public transportation network that includes buses, trains, and ferries. For example, a bus ride in Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi typically costs around $0.20 to $0.50 USD, making it an affordable option for getting around. Additionally, cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have motorcycle taxis, known as “xe om,” which can be a cheaper alternative for short trips.

6. What are the average prices for accommodation in Vietnam?

Accommodation prices in Vietnam vary depending on the type of lodging, location, and amenities. Budget travelers can find dormitory beds in hostels for as low as $5 to $10 USD per night, while mid-range hotels usually range from $20 to $50 USD per night. If you’re looking for more upscale options, luxury hotels and resorts can cost anywhere from $100 to $300 USD or more per night. Keep in mind that prices can fluctuate depending on the season and demand, so it’s a good idea to book in advance, especially during peak travel times.

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7. How much does it cost to rent an apartment in Vietnam?

Renting an apartment in Vietnam can be quite affordable compared to many Western countries. Prices vary depending on the location, size, and amenities of the apartment. In major cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center might cost anywhere from $300 to $700 USD per month, while similar apartments outside the city center could be around $200 to $500 USD per month. Larger apartments or those with luxury amenities may cost more. It’s also common for landlords to require a security deposit equivalent to one or two months’ rent.

8. How much does it cost to eat out at a Western restaurant in Vietnam?

Eating out at a Western restaurant in Vietnam is generally more expensive than dining at local eateries but still relatively affordable compared to Western countries. Prices at Western restaurants can vary depending on the cuisine, location, and level of upscale dining. A meal at a mid-range Western restaurant might cost around $10 to $20 USD per person, while dining at upscale establishments could range from $20 to $50 USD or more per person. Keep in mind that prices for alcohol and imported ingredients may also contribute to the overall cost of dining out at Western restaurants.

9. What are the typical prices for groceries in Vietnam?

Grocery prices in Vietnam are generally lower than in many Western countries, especially for locally-produced items. Prices can vary depending on where you shop and whether you’re buying imported or local products. Here are some approximate prices for common grocery items in Vietnam: a loaf of bread: $0.50 to $1 USD, a dozen eggs: $1 to $1.50 USD, a liter of milk: $1 to $1.50 USD, a kilogram of rice: $0.50 to $1 USD, a kilogram of chicken: $2 to $3 USD, a kilogram of beef: $5 to $8 USD, a kilogram of vegetables: $1 to $3 USD.

10. How much does it cost to visit popular tourist attractions in Vietnam?

The cost of visiting tourist attractions in Vietnam can vary widely depending on the location, type of attraction, and whether you’re a foreigner or a Vietnamese resident. Entrance fees for popular attractions such as historical sites, museums, and natural landmarks typically range from a few dollars to around $10 USD per person. For example, visiting attractions like the Cu Chi Tunnels or the Hue Imperial City might cost around $5 to $10 USD per person, while admission to UNESCO World Heritage sites like Ha Long Bay or My Son Sanctuary could be slightly higher.

11. How much should I budget for transportation within Vietnam?

Transportation costs within Vietnam can vary depending on the mode of transport and the distance traveled. For short distances within cities, options like buses or motorcycle taxis (xe om) are very affordable, typically costing less than $1 USD per trip. Longer journeys between cities can be done by train, bus, or domestic flights. Train tickets for sleeper berths or reclining seats vary in price depending on the class of service and the distance traveled, with prices ranging from $10 to $50 USD or more. Similarly, bus tickets for intercity travel can range from $5 to $30 USD depending on the distance and the quality of the bus. Domestic flights between major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang can cost anywhere from $30 to $100 USD or more depending on the airline, time of booking, and class of service.

12. How much should I budget for souvenirs and shopping in Vietnam?

Budgeting for souvenirs and shopping in Vietnam depends on your personal preferences and the types of items you’re interested in purchasing. Vietnam is known for its handicrafts, textiles, ceramics, and traditional artwork, which can make for unique and affordable souvenirs. Prices for souvenirs can vary depending on factors such as quality, craftsmanship, and location. For example, you might find small souvenirs like keychains, magnets, or postcards for as little as $1 to $5 USD each, while larger items like lacquerware, silk clothing, or embroidered textiles could cost anywhere from $10 to $100 USD or more depending on the size and intricacy of the item.

13. How much does it cost to get a SIM card and data plan in Vietnam?

Getting a SIM card and data plan in Vietnam is relatively affordable and straightforward. You can purchase SIM cards from mobile network providers such as Viettel, Vinaphone, or Mobifone at convenience stores, phone shops, or official stores located throughout Vietnam. Prices for SIM cards vary depending on the provider and the type of plan you choose, but typically range from $2 to $10 USD. Data plans can be purchased separately and usually cost around $2 to $10 USD for a prepaid package with varying amounts of data, valid for a certain number of days or weeks.

14. How much should I budget for medical expenses and travel insurance in Vietnam?

Budgeting for medical expenses and travel insurance is an important consideration when traveling to Vietnam. While healthcare services in Vietnam are generally affordable compared to many Western countries, unexpected medical emergencies or accidents can still occur. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that provides coverage for medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, and repatriation in case of illness or injury. The cost of travel insurance varies depending on factors such as your age, length of stay, destination, and level of coverage, but typically ranges from $20 to $50 USD or more for a short-term policy.

15. How much should I tip in Vietnam, and is tipping expected?

Tipping is not a common practice in Vietnam, especially at local eateries or street food stalls where prices are already low. However, in tourist areas or upscale restaurants where service charges are not included, it’s becoming more common to leave a small tip for good service. In general, tipping is discretionary and not expected, but it’s appreciated if you feel that the service was exceptional. If you do choose to tip, rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount of change is usually sufficient.

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