Vietnam and Saigon

UK Citizens: UK nationals can stay in Vietnam for up to 15 days visa-free. For longer stays, a visa is required and can be applied for online (e-visa) for stays up to 30 days.

Italian Citizens: Italian nationals also enjoy a 15-day visa-free stay. The same e-visa options apply for longer stays.

Vaccinations:

The following vaccinations are recommended before travelling to Vietnam:

Routine vaccines: MMR, polio, and influenza.

Travel-specific vaccines: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, and Tetanus.

Malaria prophylaxis is generally unnecessary for urban areas like Ho Chi Minh City but may be recommended for rural regions in Southern Vietnam.

Internal Transportation

Domestic Flights: Ho Chi Minh City is well-connected to other Vietnamese cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, and Phu Quoc by low-cost airlines (VietJet, Bamboo Airways).

Trains: Vietnam’s Reunification Express train offers scenic trips, but it is slower compared to flights. Night trains are a popular option.

Buses: Sleeper buses are commonly used for intercity travel, particularly for overnight routes.

Taxis and Ride-Share: Within Ho Chi Minh City, ride-sharing apps like Grab are affordable and popular.

Getting There from London and Rome

Flights: Direct flights to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) are limited, so most travellers take one-stop flights via hubs like Bangkok, Singapore, or Kuala Lumpur. The average flight duration from:

London: Approximately 14-16 hours with layovers. Carriers like Vietnam Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and Thai Airways offer frequent connections.

Rome: Roughly 15-17 hours with one stopover. Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Thai Airways are popular options.

Must-See Sites in Saigon and Southern Vietnam

Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City): Visit the War Remnants Museum, the Cu Chi Tunnels, Ben Thanh Market, and Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon for a blend of history and culture.

Mekong Delta: Known for its lush landscapes and floating markets like Cai Rang, it’s a beautiful region to explore by boat, witnessing traditional life along the river.

Can Tho: This bustling town in the Mekong Delta offers local culture, markets, and an opportunity to experience river cruises and village tours.

Phu Quoc Island: Vietnam’s largest island, known for its sandy beaches, snorkelling, and luxury resorts. It’s an excellent getaway from city life.

Vung Tau: A seaside city near Ho Chi Minh with beaches, a scenic Christ statue, and traditional Vietnamese fishing culture.

Costs

Accommodation: Budget rooms start at £10 per night, while mid-range hotels are around £30-£60. High-end options can range from £100 and above, especially on Phu Quoc.

Food: Street food is affordable, with dishes like pho costing about £1.50-£3, while a meal at a mid-range restaurant is around £5-£10.

Transport: Domestic flights are affordable, with flights between major cities often costing under £50 one-way.

Vietnamese Culture

Vietnamese culture is heavily influenced by Buddhism, Confucianism, and colonial history. Hospitality and respect for elders are core values, with communal family living and a strong emphasis on tradition. The food culture is a major highlight, with local dishes like pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls, often enjoyed with fresh herbs and spices.

Size and Things to Do

Saigon Size: Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s largest city, home to over 9 million people. It covers an area of approximately 2,095 square kilometres.

Things to Do: Discover street food markets, explore French colonial architecture, visit rooftop bars, and take day trips to the Mekong Delta or Cu Chi Tunnels.

Water Sports: Phu Quoc Island, Nha Trang, and Con Dao offer a variety of water sports, including snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking, and windsurfing.