General Introduction
Socialist Republic of Vietnam
Independence - Freedom - Happiness
Country file
Head of State: Nguyen Minh Triet
Population: around 84.5 million people, of which 84% are ethnic Vietnamese (Annamites) and 15% belong to ethnic minorities.
Surface area: 333, 000 km² (128,527 sq.miles)
Capital : Hanoi
National day : 2nd September
National anthem : “Army March”
Principal cities : Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Hue, Danang
Highest peak : Phan Xi Pan, in the northern province of Lao Cai, at 3,143m
Geography
Vietnam lies on the eastern coast of the Indochinese peninsula, and shares a land border with Cambodia, Laos and China; a long stretch of land running along on the South China Sea, its shape recalls that of a dragon - not a bad omen for a south-east Asian country. Another feature of Vietnam is its diverse topographical landscape. The country counts coastal lowlands, mountain highlands, and the extensive delta plains of its famous rivers: the Red river and the Mekong.
Climate
The climate varies considerably between the North and the South of the country. We recommend you travel when the temperatures are less extreme, during April, May, October and November. In the North, the heat lasts from April to September, coinciding somewhat with the rainy season between June and October. January to March are also wet months, albeit with more moderate temperatures. The South has a tropical climate with temperatures ranging between 25° and 35° C. The heat lasts from March until May. The rainy season (May to November) is punctuated by short bursts of heavy rain. April, May, October and November are the best months to visit.
Visa
A passport valid for six months after leaving Vietnam + visa, for which an application must be submitted before you travel to Vietnam so it can be issued upon arrival at the airport (bring 2 passport photos)
Money
The national currency is the dong
1 EURO = 24 000 dongs
1 USD = 16 000 dongs
Most foreign currencies can be sold in the leading Vietnamese banks. Visa, AMEX and MasterCard are widely accepted in the main cities and tourist destinations. ATMs are also widespread. Travellers cheques can be exchanged in designated banks.
Electricity
The electric current (tension) is 220V, and sockets are identical to those found in France and in Britain
Time difference
- GMT +07 in the winter: when it’s midday in London, it’s 7pm in Hanoi.
- GMT +06 in the summer: when it’s midday in London, it’s 6pm in Hanoi.
Calling code
To call Vietnam from England, dial 00 84 followed by your number. Dial 00 44 to dial from Vietnam to England, dropping the first digit of the phone number (usually a 0)
Health
No particular vaccination is required; however, an anti-malarial treatment is advised.
Gallery
What our customers say
" We arrived last night after an additional three nights in HCMC. Our trip to Vietnam was extremely rewarding. We will remember the excellent organisation, the friendly welcome and the stunning landscapes.... "
--- Alain Hamel, Narbonne, France
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| Email: | info@letoilevietnam.com | |