How to Get Around Vietnam?

An electronic visa (E-visa) is one of visa types issued to foreigners by Vietnamese Immigration Department via electronic system. Vietnam E-visa is valid from 30 days to 90 days. 

Outside Vietnam foreigners who want to enter Vietnam can apply your E-visa via this link:  Apply for E-visa 

There are many options for processing time to ensure you can get your E-visa on time.

• Processing time: 4-5 wokring days (normal processing time)
• Processing time: 3- wokring days (Rush)
• Processing time: 2 wokring days (Urgent)
• Processing time: 1 wokring days (Express)
• Processing time: 4 hours (Super Express)
• Processing time: 15-30 minutes (Emergency)

If you are not on list of 80 countries for Evisa, you can apply VOA (Visa on arrival) via this link: Apply VOA 

List of Countries that allowed E-visa issuing. e-Visa Vietnam support for 80 eligible countries.

List of Ports that allowed foreigners enter and exit Vietnam by E-visa.

Vietnam is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel. Violent crime is rare, though petty theft can occur. Always keep your valuables secure when out and about just to be safe.
There are some common scams in Vietnam, such as the motorbike scam where vendors try to charge you for pre-existing damage to your bike rental. When renting anything, take photos and videos beforehand just in case.
Be sure to always count your change. The money is similar looking here so oftentimes people will “mistakenly” give you the wrong change hoping you won’t notice that the 200,000 VND bill you just got is actually only 20,000. Always count your change here!
Most scams here are really just people trying to try to nickel and dime you and try to get you to spend extra money since they know, as a tourist, you have more than they do.
Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).
If you experience an emergency, dial 113 for assistance.
Be sure to make copies of your important documents in case of theft.
The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.
How to Get Around Vietnam?
Public transportation – In some towns and cities, the cyclo (a bicycle rickshaw) is one of the cheapest ways to get around. A short ride costs as little as 12,000 VND, while a longer night ride costs upwards of 40,000 VND. A more popular option is the ze om, a motorbike taxi that has fares starting from 15,000 VND. You’ll have to hold on tight though (and make sure you wear a helmet as accidents are common).
Train – A lot of people love taking the train in Vietnam because it’s safe, affordable, and comfortable and, although some routes might be slow, you’ll get some amazing views of the Vietnamese countryside. The rail network also covers most of the country, so you can get just about everywhere you want to go (except the Central Highlands and the Mekong Delta).
You can use the website to research train schedules and book your tickets. A train journey between Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi starts at 900,000 VND.
Bus – It’s easy to find long-distance bus tours running the length of Vietnam, starting at Hanoi with stops in Hue, Hoi An, Nha Trang, Da Lat, Mui Ne, and ending in Ho Chi Minh. You can hop on or off at any stop along the way. They cater to tourists, but locals actually use this service too since it’s super affordable.
Prices depend on route and operator but generally Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh is between 815,000-1,600,000 VND. This is the most popular backpacking route and buses depart daily.
Flying – Flying domestically in Vietnam is a good idea if you’re looking to fit a lot into a shorter trip. For example, a flight from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City takes two hours while the train ride would take at least 30 hours. One-way flights around the country start at around 590,000 VND.
Car rental – Vietnam is very easy to navigate by bus, so I don’t really suggest renting a car here — especially because traffic in the cities is very hectic and accidents are common. That said, car rentals are affordable, costing around 500,000 VND per day. An IDP (International Driving Permit) is required.