Vietnam

[diesel1973]

Am thinking of doing a land tour in Vietnam. Was wondering what month of the year would be the best as far as weather is concerned? From what I've found the weather in the northern part can be quite different from the south. Any suggestions would be helpful. Thanks

[iancal]

We had the same challenge three years ago  We were spending the winter in SE Asia and planned a month long trip to Vietnam.  We entered by land in mid March (from Cambodia).  We started at the bottom in Phu Quok and made our way up to Hanoi.

 

The weather was perfect.  We wore shorts all the time.  We expected the weather to be cooler in the north but it was not.  But we did not go north of Hanoi. We ran out of time but plan to return.  The weather in the south was warm.  The north was a little cooler but not by much.  We never wore a sweater, coat, or long slacks.

 

After spending month of independent travel in Vietnam and then looking at where cruise ships docked, how far those docks were for some wonderful spots, we came to the conclusion that if we did an Asia cruise it would not be worthwhile to look at one that included Vietnam.  It would be far too limiting.

 

I suspect that we could have gone to Vietnam, weather wise, a month earlier.  We were in Cambodia prior to Vietnam.  The weather in Siem Reap was very hot so much so that we started touring at 8AM and came back at 2-2:30.   We very much enjoyed the country and plan to return.  I think that if you a physically able, a land trip is by far the best choice for this country.

[Mtngirl2]

I was in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos in April 2018.  I did a river cruise from Saigon up the Mekong, then Siem Reap, then flew up to Hanoi, then Halong Bay, then to Luang Prang, Laos.  It was warm the whole time, especially in the south.  You get used to it if you plan wisely.  With the river cruise, we were usually out and about early and often back to the boat for lunch, then either cruised or did something later in the afternoon.  When on my own, I tried to get out early, find a cool place for lunch, back to the hotel in the heat of the day, then out late afternoon and evening.  Wear light, breathable clothing, drink lots of water, mosquito protection, and enjoy!  I also kept a paper folding fan in my pack, also one of those little towels that absorb and dry quickly, as well as hand sanitizers, sunscreen, and lysol wipes.  If I had access to a freezer, I would freeze a bottle of water at night and use that during the day, to cool off or drink.  I've traveled the world over, in tropical heat, and have found to take the pace slowly, drink lots of water, wear a hat with a wide brim, and enjoy the adventure!!!😎

[diesel1973]

Thank you for your helpful responses. According to info I've found it seems like fall or winter is the best time to visit as far as weather is concerned. I might aim for fall of this year but am planning a 2 week land tour in Thailand in Jan. 2020. Might check to see if I can combine both.

[iancal]

If you plan to go in Jan you might want to look at the latter part of January depending on where you go.  Rain in the south sometimes.

 

We feel the same way about Thailand as we do VIetnam when it comes to land vs cruises.  Combining both is a great idea since they are so close.  They are among our favorite winter destinations.  We are leaving for Thailand next week and cannot wait.  The only negative aspect is the long flight.

[diesel1973]

Have been doing some research and if I combine Vietnam it will not include North Thailand(Chiang Rai &Mai) but will use the time in Vietnam. Any suggestions?

[iancal]

Cannot help you.  We have spent time in Chiang Mai.  All of our travels have been independent, taking time and travelling somewhat spontaneously.    It would be best for you to get a guidebook from the library/bookstore, or do some on line research to decide what appeals to you.  Then line that up with your escorted tours.    When we were in Hue I spoke to a gentleman who was in the middle of a Gate1 tour.  He told me that he was very happy with all aspects of the tour so far.  We are retired.  The only constraint that we had in Vietnam was our month long visa and even that could have been expended.

[diesel1973]

That is the tour co. I am looking at. Have done 3 tours with them and have been completely satisfied with them. The problem is they have so many different tours. I guess I will have to do my homework before making a decision. Thank you for your input.

[iancal]

IMHO....this is a far better way to see and experience Thailand and Vietnam than is a cruise.  You will get to see  and experience so  very much more of the real environment.  Vietnam is changing quickly.  It is good to go now.    One surprise for us was how incredibly well conected to the web they are.  You cannot go anywhere without having wifi access.  

We were so glad that we went and I expect that we will return.

Edited January 12, 2019 by iancal

[suspaul]

We travelled with Avalon Waterways 3 years ago on a land and Mekong river cruise in Vietnam and Cambodia which was fantastic, however it left us wanting more, so late this year we’re doing an Independent trip also.  Really looking forward to seeing more of local life as we feel we saw the top sights on our first 3 week trip.  Vietnam is an amazing country filled with kind people and beautiful scenery.

[diesel1973]

suspaul I know what you mean by wanting more. Went to China 3 yrs. ago and was simply awed! Went again last year and it was better than the first time. Did mainly the eastern part of China and am now looking to do the western part. The Chinese people are the kindest and most helpful people we have ever experienced in our many travels. I am trying to see the world before I leave it!!!  Thanks for the info.

[iancal]

One of the highlights of our time in Vietnam was home stay in the Mekong.  We arranged on the web prior to leaving the island of Phu Quok in the south.  

 

We got to live with the family for two nights.   Visited the local market, selected our foods, and returned home to cook it.  And we got to see how the locals lived and how they earned their living.  Even now, as we open packages of rice noodles at home we can see the marks on them and remember visiting the small factories where they were made and even having a try a doing it ourselves.

[diesel1973]

We also visited a resident of the Hutong area in Bejing. We were transported there in a rickshaw and had tea there. She was a single elderly lady who also hosted various US athletes during the Olympics. Was interesting to see their pictures hanging on the walls of her house.