Before venturing out from your hotel, make sure you do have a hotel business card with you. This will make your return to the hotel in a taxi or cyclo much easier!

For longer excursions from your hotel, it is always a good idea to carry a roll of toilet paper in your pack or purse. You never know when you will need it!

Please always dress appropriately. Not only for the Vietnam climate, but also to not cause offense to the local people. Vietnamese (and many tourist sites) have conservative dress codes. It is only in larger cities, like Saigon that these codes are relaxed a little.

Always leave your excess cash, airline tickets, passports and valuables in the hotel’s safety deposit box.

Do drink plenty of bottled water. During the summer months you should be drinking a minimum of 2 liters per day. If you drink tea, coffee, or alcohol you should increase you water intake accordingly as these will dehydrate you.

Always be aware when entering someone’s home as at some homes you must please remove your shoes at the front door.

Please always ask permission first when taking a photograph of someone. If they indicate that they do not want you to, then abide by their wishes. Please do not push the issue or offer money. Furthermore, there are some times when you shouldn’t even ask.