Things to remember

• It's in your best interests not to drink the tap water, especially after flooding!
• Avoid cyclo ride after dark.
• Dress modestly and appropriately when visiting local dwellings and religious sites, etc.
• Leave your valuables behind before a night out on the town, or going to the beach.
• When crossing the road, especially in Ho Chi Minh city, always keep looking to the left and right and walk slowly!
• Do not offer money directly to minority people - instead donate to a local charity or offer a small gift, such as pens.
• Try at least once the delicious, local street food.
• Always ask permission first before taking photographs, especially in minority areas.
   

Vietnam has tropical weather marked by a monsoon season. It is typically humid and warm, although the weather can vary significantly from one area to another due to the long length of the country which covers several weather zones and the variance in altitudes (in recently there has been often snow in Sapa and Lang Son while it was quite hot in Saigon).