Epic Stays, Budget Flights, and Unforgettable Fun in Vietnam: Your Ultimate Guide!

1. Where to Crash: Budget-Friendly and Amazing Stays

Finding a great place to stay in Vietnam doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Here are some top picks for cozy, affordable, and totally Instagrammable accommodations:

• Hanoi

  • Hanoi Backpackers Hostel: A lively spot with budget beds starting around $10 per night. Perfect for meeting fellow travelers and enjoying nightly events.

  • O'Gallery Majestic Hotel: For a touch of luxury without the price tag. Rooms start around $45 per night and you’ll get a fantastic view of the city.

  • Old Quarter View Hanoi Hostel: Central and affordable with rates starting at $15 per night. Great location for exploring Hanoi’s bustling streets.

• Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

  • The Common Room Project: Stylish and affordable, with dorms starting at $12 per night. Great for mingling and exploring the city.

  • Hotel Nikko Saigon: A bit more upscale with rates starting at $70 per night. Luxurious rooms and a fabulous pool to cool off in.

  • Saigon Backpackers Hostel: Fun and budget-friendly, starting at $13 per night. Located in the heart of the city with easy access to attractions.

• Hoi An

  • Tribee Bana Hostel: Bright and cheerful with beds starting at $8 per night. It’s a short walk from the old town and includes a free breakfast.

  • Anantara Hoi An Resort: For a splash of elegance with rates starting around $80 per night. A perfect mix of comfort and charm.

  • Vinh Hung Library Hotel: Cozy and stylish with rooms starting at $30 per night. Located close to the Ancient Town.

2. Budget Flights: How to Get There for Less

Flying to Vietnam can be affordable if you know where to look! Here’s how to snag those budget-friendly flights:

• From the US: Expect to pay around $600 - $1,200 for a round-trip flight to major cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. Use Skyscanner to compare prices and snag the best deals.

• From Europe: Flights usually range from €500 - €1,000. Again, Skyscanner can help you find the cheapest options and alert you to special offers.

• From Australia: Flights typically cost between AUD 300 - AUD 600. Check Skyscanner for the best rates and flexibility with dates.

Tip: Book your flights 2-3 months in advance and be flexible with your dates to score the best prices.

3. Unforgettable Fun: Top Things to Do on a Budget

Vietnam is bursting with fun and unique experiences that won’t break the bank. Check these out:

• Explore Halong Bay: Take a budget-friendly day cruise for around $50 - $80 to soak in the stunning limestone karsts. Don’t forget your camera!

• Wander Around Hoi An Old Town: This UNESCO World Heritage site is free to explore. Enjoy the lantern-lit streets, grab some street food, and take in the charming atmosphere.

• Visit the War Remnants Museum: In Ho Chi Minh City, this museum offers a deep dive into Vietnam’s history for a small entrance fee of about $2.

• Relax in Nha Trang: Enjoy the beautiful beaches for free! Just pack your sunscreen and relax on the golden sands.

• Trek in Sapa: Experience the breathtaking rice terraces and local hill tribes. Budget tours start around $40 for a day trip, or you can explore independently for less.

• Cruise the Mekong Delta: Take a day trip for about $30 - $60 to explore floating markets and local villages. A unique way to experience the rural charm of Vietnam.

• Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels: Near Ho Chi Minh City, these historical tunnels offer insight into Vietnam War history. Tours start at around $25.

• Discover Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park: Known for its stunning caves. Entry fees are about $10, and you can join budget tours for around $50.

• Visit the Marble Mountains: Located in Da Nang, this picturesque site offers incredible views and caves. Entry is around $5.

• Explore Hue’s Imperial City: This historical site in Hue offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s royal past. Entrance is about $10, and it’s worth every penny.

4. Delicious and Budget-Friendly Eats

Vietnamese food is both delicious and affordable. Here are some must-try dishes and where to find them:

• Pho: The famous noodle soup can be enjoyed at street stalls for as little as $2. Look for local favorites in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.

• Banh Mi: This Vietnamese baguette sandwich is a cheap and tasty snack. Prices start at around $1.50, and you’ll find fantastic options in Hoi An.

• Goi Cuon (Spring Rolls): Fresh and flavorful, these are usually $3 - $5 at local eateries. Perfect for a light meal or snack.

• Com tam (Broken Rice): A hearty and affordable dish, often found for $3 - $4 at street food stalls. Popular in Ho Chi Minh City.

• Cha Ca (Fish Dish): A local specialty in Hanoi. Try it at a restaurant for around $5 - $8 per serving.

5. Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip

• Use Public Transport: Save money by using buses and local trains instead of taxis. Vietnam’s transport system is efficient and affordable.

• Haggle Like a Pro: Bargaining is part of the shopping experience in Vietnam. Don’t be shy to negotiate prices at markets and street stalls.

• Stay Hydrated: The weather can get hot, so keep a water bottle handy. Many hotels and hostels offer free refills.

• Embrace the Street Food: It’s cheap, delicious, and an essential part of the Vietnamese experience. Just make sure to choose stalls that look clean and busy!

So there you have it! A guide to making your Vietnamese adventure both epic and budget-friendly. With these tips, you’re all set to have an amazing time exploring, eating, and enjoying everything this vibrant country has to offer. Safe travels and have a blast in Vietnam! 🌟✈️🍜