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Bali & Asia travel
& Gold Coast
"Apartments Afloat"
Rely on 35 years experience!
John Forsyth and Aileen Collins welcome you to their world of unique holiday ideas
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Vietnam...
Handy Info
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Currency
The
official currency is the Dong although US dollars are widely
accepted. Traveller's cheques can be cashed at certain banks
(even if drawn from a US bank). Visa and MasterCard are
accepted in some of the larger hotels and restaurants, whilst
cash advances are available at selected banks. In general
the best advice is to bring US$ cash and travellers cheques.
Click here for an estimate
of current exchange rates.
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Transport
Taxis:
There is now an official metered taxi service, which is
reasonably priced. However many private vehicle operators
as unofficial taxis with fares subject to negotiation and
agreed in advance.
Most
visitors prefer to hire a car or mini-van with driver by
the day or by the hour from reputable travel agents.
Bicycles/Motorbikes:
These can be hired from many small outlets in the city centre.
Bicycles rent from US$1 per day, while 50cc motorcycles
start at us$5 per day.
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Climate
The
climate in Vietnam varies significantly by region as follows:
- The
South has a sub-tropical climate with average temperatures
of 27°C. The dry season lasts from November to June.
- The
Central Highlands temperature can reach 30°C at
midday, with nighttime lows of 15°C.
- In
the Central coastal regions, wet season lasts from April
to September. Average temperatures range from 27°C
in the south to 25°C in the north.
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- The
North is characterised by a winter season (November to
April) and a summer season. Winter temperatures average
from 18°C in Hanoi to below 10°C in the highlands.
Summer temperatures are similar to central regions. Rainfall
is unpredictable and not seasonal
History
Click
Here for a brief history of Vietnam
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Health
Visitor's
to Vietnam are recommended to have up to date inoculations.
It is best to consult your doctor on the best preventative
measures. Over the counter prescription drugs are widely
available in major cities. In addition there are hospitals
in HCM City and Hanoi with special wards dedicated to
the treatment of foreigners. Foreign doctors are available.
Language
Vietnamese
is the official language, but a variety of other languages
are also spoken including Mandarin, Cantonese, Hokkien,
English, French and Russian.
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Electricty
A
combination of 110 volts and 220 volts, both at 50 cycles.
Guests are advised to consult with the hotel if unsure
of the type of voltage or if electrical faults occur.
Food
Saigon
has an increasing selection of international restaurants
including Italian, French, Indian, Japanese and Chinese.
Vietnamese cuisine is rivaled only by the abundant array
of tropical fare such as dragon fruit, longans and rambutans
that form the perfect compliment to any meal.
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Other
helpful hints
Personal
Security: Visitors are advised to carry only small amounts
of cash in fastened pockets or handbags. All hotels have
safe deposit facilities.
Tipping:
Tipping is not widespread in Vietnam but there is an increasing
expectation from foreigners. Tips, when given, should be
in low denomination Dong. A tip of 50,000d is considered
sufficient for short trips. A 10% service charge is usually
added to bills in better quality restaurants and hotels.
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