Getting around Vietnam

With many transport options, you'll find good local travel agencies in every tourist stop in Vietnam. Competition among service providers works to your advantage, and you can find affordable deals for getting around with just a bit of shopping.

By Car
• Going by car is the best and safest way to see Vietnam.
• Self-drive is unwise.
• Drivers in Vietnam and Cambodia (and pretty much region-wide) use the horn constantly. Using horn doesn't mean a driver is angry

By Plane
Someone said “It's a good idea to fly the longer hops along Vietnam's length: from Hanoi to Hue; from Danang to Nha Trang; and from Nha Trang to Ho Chi Minh City .

By Train
The Reunification Express runs the entire length of Vietnam's coast -- from Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi, with routes out of Hanoi to the likes of Sapa, Lang Son, and to coastal Haiphong. There are a number of classes, from third-class hard seat to air-conditioned cushioned seat to sleeper, but in general the more comfortable seats are affordable. Be warned that you need to book trains a few days in advance, especially for weekend travel.

By Bus
• Local buses depart from stations usually a good distance from the town center.
• Buses leave only when full -- and full means that everyone is uncomfortable, two to a seat, produce hanging, bags under your feet and, SARS be damned, chickens in bags and on people's laps
• You often have to negotiate a price with the driver or bus tout
One good alternative is to buy a ticket with assigned seat on the small air-conditioned minivans that ply most major routes in Vietnam. Ask at any hotel front desk, and expect to pay often double the local bus price (still very affordable) and ride in relative style among locals but without the hassles.

However, Travelling by motorbikes, motorbike taxis or renting your own motorbike also can be seen around Vietnam, yet please take care. Hire a guide can make your adventures a little more manageable.