Before You Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC)
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Passport:
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. If your passport is nearing its expiration or will have less than six months' validity when you arrive in Vietnam, it is recommended to obtain a new one as soon as possible.
- Check whether you require a visa to enter Vietnam. Many nationalities can now apply for an e-visa online, which significantly simplifies the process. Apply and pay for your e-visa directly on the official website: https://evisa.gov.vn/. Be cautious of unofficial websites, as they may be scams.
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Vaccinations: It is advisable to update your vaccinations before travelling to Vietnam. Consult your GP if you have specific questions regarding recommended vaccines.
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What to Bring:
- Clothing: Lightweight, breathable fabrics suitable for a tropical climate are essential. Don't forget a raincoat or umbrella for sudden showers.
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes for city tours and factory visits.
- Essentials: Sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, and power adapters (Vietnam uses Type A, C, and D plugs).
- Documents: Carry copies of your passport, visa, and travel insurance details.
- Prescription Medications: Ensure you bring enough medication if required.
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Useful Information to Know in Advance
- Currency: The official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Although USD is still widely accepted, using VND is recommended for local transactions. The current exchange rate is approximately 24,000 VND to 1 USD.
- Language: Vietnamese is the official language, though English is commonly spoken in tourist and business areas.
- Weather: HCMC is hot and humid year-round. The rainy season runs from May to November, while the dry season spans December to April.
- Hotels & Accommodation:
HCMC offers a wide variety of accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly choices. You can select from bustling central business district hotels or more peaceful riverside options. For availability, pricing, and deals, check platforms like Agoda or Booking.com.
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Luxury (5 stars):
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Mid-range (3-4 stars):
- Proximity to Factory: Consider staying in District 1, which is centrally located and approximately 30-45 minutes from factories in District 2.
Arrival in HCMC
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Transportation in HCMC: The international terminal at Tan Son Nhat Airport is modern and easy to navigate. You can opt for airport taxis or use ride-hailing apps for transportation.
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Ride-Hailing Apps
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- Grab is the most popular ride-hailing apps in HCMC. They offer both motorbike and car options at affordable rates, commonly used by locals and tourists.
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Taxis: If you prefer traditional taxis, trusted companies include:
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- Mai Linh Taxi: Green taxis with reliable meter
- Vinasun Taxi: White taxis known for accurate meters.
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When using taxis:
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- Ensure the meter is running from the start of your journey.
- Avoid unofficial taxis to prevent overcharging.
- A typical ride from the airport to the city center costs around 150,000 VND.
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Life in HCMC:
- Personal Safety: Vietnam is generally one of the safest countries to visit. However, like any large city, it is not entirely crime-free. Use common sense, especially in tourist areas. Over the past few years, there has been an increase in "bag snatches" from motorbikes. Avoid visibly carrying handbags on your shoulder, as they may become targets.
- Clothing: Cotton-based clothing is ideal for HCMC's hot and humid climate. Tailors are abundant and reasonably priced. They can make almost anything you request, though quality can vary. It's best to shop around for a tailor that suits your needs. Some tailors even come to your hotel. Material is often purchased at local markets like Tan Dinh (District 3) or Ben Thanh (District 1).
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Banks and ATMs
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- ATMs are readily available but may charge withdrawal fees.
- Major banks include Vietcombank, BIDV, and Techcombank.
- Inform your bank about international transactions to avoid issues with your cards.
- Credit cards are accepted in most places.
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Recreational and Leisure Activities:
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Dining out in HCMC:
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Vietnamese Food:
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- Ngon Restaurant: Traditional Vietnamese dishes in a charming setting. (160 Pasteur, District 1)
- Secret Garden: Authentic Vietnamese cuisine with a rooftop view. (158 Pasteur, District 1)
- Cuc Gach Quan: a charming Vietnamese restaurant offering traditional dishes in a cozy, rustic setting with a focus on authentic flavors (10 Dang Tat, District 1)
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Western Food:
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- El Gaucho Steakhouse: Premium steaks and Argentine-style cuisine. (74/1 Hai Ba Trung, District 1)
- Pizza 4P's: Japanese-inspired pizza with locally sourced ingredients. (8/15 Le Thanh Ton, District 1)
- Bouchon French Bistro – A cozy French bistro serving classic French dishes such as escargot, duck confit, and pâté. (6 Thai Van Lung, District 1)
- The Ripple Restaurant & Bar – Offers a mix of European and modern Australian cuisine in a sophisticated, contemporary setting. (4-6 Nguyen Sieu, District 1)
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Vegetarian Food:
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- Hum Vegetarian: Beautiful vegetarian dishes in a tranquil setting. (2 Thi Sach, District 1)
- Prem Bistro & Cafe: Vegan-friendly options with a cozy ambiance. (204 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, District 3)
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Medical Services:
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General Medical Services
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- FV Saigon Clinic
- Family Medical Practice
- Columbia Asia Clinic
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Hospitals:
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- Franco Vietnamese Hospital: 6 Nguyen Luong Bang St, South Saigon, District 7. Tel: 5411 3333
- Columbia Asia Hospital: 91 No Trang Long, Binh Thanh District. Tel: 3803 0678
- Pharmacies: Pharmacity and Guardian are reliable for over-the-counter medications. Carry basic medications for common ailments like colds or stomach issues.
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Technology in HCMC:
- Purchase a local SIM card for affordable mobile data from providers like Viettel, Mobifone, or Vinaphone.
- Free Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, cafes, and restaurants
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Communication:
- Mobile Phones: Mobile phones generally work well in HCMC. Vietnamese SIM cards are easily available and offer pay-as-you-go plans.
- International Direct Dialing: Access code: 00 or +, Country code for Vietnam: 84, HCMC area code: 028
- Emergency Numbers: Police: 113, Fire Brigade: 114, Ambulance: 115
- Factory contacts: +84 8 3873 3630
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Factory address and location: Seawind Catamarans factory: Saigon Shipyard – Gate C, Thanh My Loi, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City. Google Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/qssarmAT8nGwWarK7
Safe travels and enjoy your time in Ho Chi Minh City!
