WHEN TO TRAVEL to Vietnam

Location

Climate

Planning a trip to Vietnam can be complicated by weather conditions and cultural events that vary throughout the year.

Vietnam's climatic seasons: dry season vs. wet season

Vietnam has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season and the wet season. Temperatures can vary considerably between these two seasons, which can have a significant impact on your travel experience.

The dry season in Vietnam (November to April)

The dry season is generally considered the best time to visit Vietnam. During this period temperatures are more moderate and less frequent rainfall. It's also the time of year when landscapes are at their greenest and flowers are in full bloom. However, it's important to note that temperatures vary from region to region. For example, in the north of the country, temperatures can be quite cool in winter (December and January), while in the south they generally remain warm and pleasant throughout the dry season.

The wet season in Vietnam (May to October)

The wet season brings heavy rain and higher temperatures, which can make some outdoor activities less enjoyable. However, the landscape is also more lush during this period, which can be an advantage for nature lovers. It's essential to take weather conditions into account when planning your trip to avoid inconveniences associated with bad weather. Typhoons are also more frequent during the wet season, particularly in the coastal regions of central and northern Vietnam.

Major cultural events and public holidays in Vietnam

Vietnam is rich in traditions and festivals, and attending one of these events can be an unforgettable experience. Here are some of the main cultural events and public holidays that take place throughout the year:

Tet - Vietnamese Lunar New Year (between January and February)

Tet is undoubtedly the most important and festive celebration in Vietnam. It marks the start of the Lunar New Year and usually lasts three days. The festivities include parades, fireworks, lion and dragon dance performances, and of course, many traditional dishes. However, it's important to know that during this period, many shops and tourist attractions may be closed.

Mid-Autumn Festival (September or October)

The Mid-Autumn Festival is a joyous occasion when families come together to celebrate the full moon. Children parade with colorful lanterns, and people sample mooncakes, a traditional delicacy. This festival is particularly popular in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Southern Liberation Day (April 30)

This day commemorates the end of the Vietnam War and the reunification of the country. Parades and cultural events are organized throughout the country, particularly in Ho Chi Minh City.

Low and high tourist season in Vietnam

Tourism in Vietnam also has low and high seasons, which can influence your decision about when to go.

Low tourist season (May to September)

As mentioned above, the wet season generally coincides with the low tourist season. During this period, you can take advantage of lower accommodation rates and less crowded tourist sites. However, some outdoor activities may be limited due to weather conditions.

High tourist season (October to April)

The high tourist season in Vietnam corresponds to the dry season, when the country sees the greatest influx of visitors. During this period, accommodation prices can be higher and tourist sites more crowded. However, it also means that you'll be able to take advantage of a time and take part in a variety of outdoor activities.

The best time to go to Vietnam according to your interests

Ultimately, the best time to go to Vietnam depends on your personal preferences and interests. Here are a few recommendations based on various areas of interest:

• Beaches and water sports : The best time to enjoy Vietnam's beaches is during the dry season, between November and April.
• Hiking and trekking : If you want to explore the mountainous regions of northern Vietnam, the ideal time is between March and May or September and November, when weather conditions are most favorable.
• Culture and festivals : To fully experience Vietnamese traditions, plan your trip around specific cultural events such as Tết or the Mid-Autumn Festival.
• Budget travel : If you're budget-conscious, consider traveling during the low tourist season, when accommodation prices are generally lower.

Exponential growth in the number of international tourists

According to the general statistics officeThe number of foreign tourists visiting Vietnam has risen dramatically in recent years. In 2018, the country welcomed nearly 15 million international visitors, an increase of 19.9% over 2017. This trend continued in 2019 with growth of 16.2%, reaching a record of over 18 million foreign tourists.

Geographical breakdown of arrivals

Travellers fromAsia represent the majority of tourists, with around 79.5% of arrivals in 2019. Of these, Chinese and South Koreans are the most numerous. To a lesser extent, there are also tourists from other Asian countries, such as China. Japan, Taiwan or the Malaysia. Visitors fromWestern Europe have also increased, reaching around 2 million people in 2019. Among them, French, British and German tourists are the most numerous.

Travel reasons

• Tourism : Most foreign tourists visit Vietnam to discover its cultural, historical and natural treasures. The most emblematic sites include Halong Bay, Hoi An, Sapa and Ho Chi Minh City.
• Business : Vietnam also attracts entrepreneurs and businessmen from all over the world because of its dynamic economy and investment opportunities.
• Family : Many Vietnamese living abroad regularly return to their home country to visit relatives.
• Studies : Finally, Vietnam also welcomes international students wishing to pursue higher education or learn the Vietnamese language.

Most popular visas in Vietnam

Different types of visa are issued by the Vietnamese authorities, depending on the purpose of your stay and the duration of your trip. Here are the most commonly requested visas:

• Tourist visa : Valid for a maximum of 30 days (with the possibility of extension), this visa is the most popular with travelers discovering Vietnam.
• Business visa: for entrepreneurs and businessmen, valid for stays from 30 days to one year.
• Work visa: issued to foreigners who have found employment in Vietnam, this visa requires presentation of a work contract and authorization from the Ministry of Labor.
• Student visa : granted to international students for a period that varies according to the duration of their planned studies.

Simplified procedures: e-visa and visa waiver

To encourage tourism and facilitate administrative procedures, the Vietnamese government has set up a system ofe-visa in 2017. This system enables nationals from 80 countries, including France, the UK and Germany, to apply for their visa online and receive a reply within 3 working days. In addition, certain nationalities benefit from a visa waiver for short stays. For example, French, British, German, Spanish and Italian citizens are exempt from visa requirements for tourist stays of less than 15 days.

Future prospects for tourism and immigration in Vietnam

The sector of tourism in Vietnam should continue to grow, thanks in particular to investment in infrastructure and the promotion of new destinations. In addition, the government has announced its intention to extend the visa waiver for the five European countries mentioned above, in order to maintain tourist appeal. With regard toimmigrationsustained economic growth and investment opportunities could attract more foreign workers and entrepreneurs.